Capitola’s Beach Festival returned Sept. 27–28, drawing thousands of visitors to the village for a weekend filled with family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and community celebration.
Capitola City Manager Jamie Goldstein was the winner of the short course SUP (stand up paddle). • Photo Credit: Laurie Hill
The festival capped two days of fun with the city’s first-ever Drone Spectacular, a breathtaking aerial display that left spectators in awe.
“We’re doing a lot of positive things here in Capitola, and September 27 and 28th was a shining example of that,” said Mary Beth Cahalen, president of the Capitola Beach Festival. “The festival brought people of all ages together to celebrate everything that makes our little village so special.”
The weekend offered a variety of activities along the beach and throughout the village. The Sand Sculpture Competition was a particular highlight. “It was amazing to see families and friends collaborating on these incredible creations,” Cahalen said. “The kids were laughing, learning, and letting their creativity shine. It was pure joy on the shoreline.”
Over 150 children participated in hands-on art activities, and more than 300 attendees explored the village during a lively scavenger hunt.
“Seeing people discover hidden gems in our village and connect with our history was one of the best parts of the weekend,” Cahalen said.
Tucker Carlson holds his trophies for winning the fishing derby. • Photo Credit: Thomas Bookins
Other activities included cornhole games, paddleboard races, rowboat competitions, chalk art, and horseshoes. “The energy was contagious,” Cahalen said. “Everyone — young and old — was laughing, playing, and enjoying the outdoors. It reminded me why we do this festival every year.”
As evening fell, the village transformed into a “City of Lights”. The nautical parade featured illuminated barges floating down Soquel Creek, each creatively decorated. The festival’s first drone show then lit up the sky in a coordinated aerial display. “This drone show was something we had been dreaming about for two years,” Cahalen said. “Watching it come together and seeing the crowd’s excitement was unforgettable.”
The festival continued on Sunday with a Fishing Derby, more paddleboard races, and additional family-oriented events. “Sunday brought the weekend together beautifully,” Cahalen said. “It felt like the spirit of Capitola was alive everywhere — on the beach, on the water, and in the village.”
Cahalen also reflected on the community impact and support behind the festival. “Events like this don’t happen without sponsors, volunteers, and community members stepping up,” she said. “Capitola has been through a lot, and this festival felt truly healing. Seeing our village filled with joy and laughter reminded me how resilient and connected our community is.”
The sand sculpture grand prize winning team, led by Martin Bond, creates the their “Snapping Selfies” entry. • Photo Credit: Thomas Bookins
The festival also brought a boost to local businesses. “It was heartening to see shops bustling, restaurants full, and families discovering the village,” Cahalen said. “This is what community support looks like, and it’s exactly what we hoped to achieve.”
“Capitola is a happening place!” Cahalen said. “We hope the community continues to join us in the sun and sand, helping make this a village where people of all ages can thrive, grow, and celebrate together.”
Volunteer Laurie Hill praised Cahalen’s leadership, saying, “She alone has inspired this small group of volunteers to carry on this great Capitola community festival tradition.”
TOP PHOTO: The Capitola Historical Museum’s entry in the Lighted Boat Parade floats into the lagoon. • Photo Credit: James Stanton