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First Fridays are here to stay.
The 418 Project is now hosting First Fridays on the first Friday of every month — a standing invitation to gather, share work, and celebrate the artists who make our community vibrant.
Visual artists can vend in our lobby.
Performers and media artists can take the stage in our small theater.
Community members can come browse, witness, connect, and support local creativity.
This is about building something consistent. A creative rhythm. A space where artists know they can show up and be seen.
Interested in participating?
Email first-fridays@the418project.org to get involved.
Mark your calendar. Bring your people.#

What’s happening at The 418 Project?
A lot.
Classes. Film screenings. Dance nights. Live performance. Community events. Every week there’s something different — and something worth showing up for.
If you haven’t been by in a while, this is your sign.
Check the calendar. Pick a night. We’ll see you here.
#the418project #santacruzarts #liveevents #supportlocalartists

We’re thrilled to welcome Ellen Wagner as The 418 Project’s new Creative & Community Outreach Director ✨

Ellen joins us during an exciting season of growth, bringing over 20 years of experience in creative direction, design, education, and community-centered programming. A multidisciplinary artist, educator, and founder of Eldenwa Designs, her work is rooted in the belief that creativity can be a powerful tool for connection, empowerment, and transformation.

From leading campaigns for global brands like Nissan and Adidas to creating hands-on workshops and youth-focused creative spaces, Ellen’s path has always centered on intentional, accessible, and purpose-driven art.

Now based in Santa Cruz, Ellen brings her passion for sustainability, storytelling, and community engagement to The 418 Project—helping expand our creative programming and deepen opportunities for people of all ages to learn, connect, and create together.

Please join us in giving Ellen a warm welcome

𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐨- 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 JAGUAR SANTANA✨

MONDAY,May 11
📍 The Project 418, 155 River Street, Dowtown Santa Cruz
⏰ 06h – 7:30 ( PacificTime)

Sliding scale
💵 $𝟮𝟱 - $𝟯𝟱 - Pay in cash, Venmo or PayPal- before we begin.

All levels
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Calling all high school and college folx.
Come party with us at YOUTH PRIDE!

What: Drag performances, food, arts & crafts, and more
Where: The 418 Project
When: Sunday June 7th, 2pm - 4pm (after the parade)

#SantaCruzPride2026 #SantaCruzYouthPride #SupportDragArtists

@the418project @zimin_ig @xinistra_ @ladyguineapinks @downtownsantacruz @santacruzparksrec @santacruzcoe @diversitycentersc

A new mural, a new chapter.
This installation marks a moment of growth for The 418 Project—shaped by collaboration, creativity, and community.
We’re grateful to be working alongside�@lionsandrabbits @joleneroserussell @venazir_ @artscouncilsc
Come experience the work and the space as it continues to evolve.
#the418project #communityart #supportartists

✨𝑫𝒖𝒐 𝑫𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝑺𝒖𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒂 𝑨𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒔 & 𝑫𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒉𝒂 𝑫𝒂 𝑯𝒐𝒓𝒂✨
MAY,18
📍 The Project 418, 155 River Street, Dowtown Santa Cruz
⏰ 06h – 7:30 ( PacificTime)

Sliding scale
💵 $30-$60

All levels
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#dandhadahora # Susana Areanas #afrobrazilian #danceteacher

Join us every Wednesday from 5:30–6:30 PM for an introduction to Tango at The 418 Project.
No experience needed—just come ready to move, connect, and learn something new.
Donation-based + open to all.

Sober Karaoke with @innereyedesign 🎤
Join us on the first and third Tuesday of every month from 7–9pm for a night of music, connection, and community—no alcohol required.
Come sing, listen, or just be in the space.
Donation-based + open to all.

We welcome all levels, and it’s basically free, so why not come learn something new? Every Wednesday at 5:30pm at the 418 Project, 155 S River st, Santa Cruz, CA

We welcome all levels, and it’s basically free, so why not come learn something new? Every Wednesday at 5:30pm at the 418 Project, 155 S River st, Santa Cruz, CA

From Michigan to Santa Cruz

On April 19th, Lions & Rabbits supported the 418 Project with two featured murals by two incredible artists—marking phase one of three, with more to come in the years ahead. As the work continues to grow beyond place, we remain focused on collaborating with artists and supporting them in the best way we can while connecting communities through public art.

Big thank you to the artists who brought these pieces to life: @venazir_ @joleneroserussell

#lionsandrabbits #santacruz #publicart

From Michigan to Santa Cruz

On April 19th, Lions & Rabbits supported the 418 Project with two featured murals by two incredible artists—marking phase one of three, with more to come in the years ahead. As the work continues to grow beyond place, we remain focused on collaborating with artists and supporting them in the best way we can while connecting communities through public art.

Big thank you to the artists who brought these pieces to life: @venazir_ @joleneroserussell

#lionsandrabbits #santacruz #publicart

From Michigan to Santa Cruz

On April 19th, Lions & Rabbits supported the 418 Project with two featured murals by two incredible artists—marking phase one of three, with more to come in the years ahead. As the work continues to grow beyond place, we remain focused on collaborating with artists and supporting them in the best way we can while connecting communities through public art.

Big thank you to the artists who brought these pieces to life: @venazir_ @joleneroserussell

#lionsandrabbits #santacruz #publicart

From Michigan to Santa Cruz

On April 19th, Lions & Rabbits supported the 418 Project with two featured murals by two incredible artists—marking phase one of three, with more to come in the years ahead. As the work continues to grow beyond place, we remain focused on collaborating with artists and supporting them in the best way we can while connecting communities through public art.

Big thank you to the artists who brought these pieces to life: @venazir_ @joleneroserussell

#lionsandrabbits #santacruz #publicart

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell

New mural installed in Santa Cruz at @the418project! Painted on 8 individual panels with @novacolorpaint. Swipe for process pics!

#muralarts #californiamural #muralartist #joleneroserussell