Downtown Watsonville has been named one of California’s 10 newest state-designated Cultural Districts, the California Arts Council recently announced. The designation recognizes communities with strong arts and cultural identities and helps support local creative economies across the state.
Watsonville is one of 10 new districts selected this year, bringing the total number of Cultural Districts in California to 24. Communities are selected through a competitive, equity-focused process that looks at community partnerships, local history, and the strength of arts and cultural programs.
“This recognition confirms what our community already knows – that arts and culture are at the heart of Watsonville,” said Nick Calubaquib, Deputy City Manager for the City of Watsonville. “We are proud of our artists, culture bearers, and community partners, and we look forward to sharing Watsonville’s story more widely across California.”
As a Cultural District, Downtown Watsonville will receive $10,000 over two years, official state certification, technical support, and access to statewide marketing and promotional resources. The designation runs from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2030. The designation will help Downtown Watsonville expand opportunities for artists, strengthen partnerships, and increase visibility for the city’s rich arts and cultural life.
“This designation gives well-deserved recognition for the decades of work by Watsonville artists and culture bearers,” said Jim Brown, Executive Director of the Arts Council Santa Cruz County. “The Arts Council is proud to have been part of this effort, and we look forward to supporting the community as it builds on this opportunity.”
What Makes Downtown Watsonville a Cultural District
Downtown Watsonville’s Cultural District reflects the community’s long-standing connection to arts, history, and cultural traditions.
Key elements include:
Community-Led Arts and Culture
Watsonville’s arts scene is created by and for the community. Local artists, organizations, and residents work together to produce public art, festivals, and events that reflect the city’s identity and shared history.
Strong Agricultural and Cultural Roots
Located in the Pajaro Valley, one of the most productive farming regions in the world, Watsonville’s arts and culture are closely tied to its agricultural history and its diverse communities. Art is used to preserve stories, traditions, and cultural heritage.
Arts That Strengthen Community
Arts and cultural programs in Watsonville focus on connection, healing, and opportunity. Cultural organizations in the district include Pajaro Valley Arts, the Watsonville Center for the Arts, Muzzio Mosaic Arts Center, Digital Nest, Cabrillo College, the Watsonville Public Library, and the Henry J. Mello Center for the Performing Arts.
City Support and a Vision for the Future
The City of Watsonville supports the arts through its Public Art Program and Cultural Arts Fund, which help bring more art and cultural programming into public spaces. The Downtown Watsonville Specific Plan also emphasizes historic preservation, community events, and welcoming public spaces.
A Lively and Welcoming Downtown
Downtown Watsonville hosts many well-loved community events throughout the year, including the Strawberry Festival, Music in the Plaza, Día de los Muertos, Filipino American Heritage Month Festival, Watsonville Film Festival, Fiestas Patrias, Noche de Brillo, and monthly Second Saturday events featuring art, music, food, and performances.
Learn more about California’s 24 state Cultural Districts at caculturaldistricts.org