Summer is almost here, and it’s a good time to reduce screen time and enjoy the many recreational opportunities available in Los Gatos.
For water sport enthusiasts, Vasona Lake County Park offers weekend rentals including pedal boats, canoes, stand‑up paddleboards, kayaks and sailboats (with some restrictions). Rentals are available Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information and reservations, visit www.parks.santaclaracounty.gov.
Los Gatos–Saratoga Recreation offers terrific programs for children and adults. You can try adult voice acting, Japanese taiko drumming and a variety of field trips. One family field trip is the guided exploration of Elkhorn Slough to observe local birds and wildlife. For the full schedule, visit www.lgsrecreation.org.
The Los Gatos Library has a great offering of programs this summer. Attend an introductory tarot card session, tie‑dye on the library lawn or attend a Mystery Night. The weekly Social Stitching group welcomes anyone working on needlework or textile projects. www.losgatosca.gov
Summer is also a good time to put down the phone and read a book. For advice on favorites, stop by Beyond Text, the independent bookstore in town. Owner Tanya Sedneva opened the shop to create a personalized experience and a community gathering place. Beyond Text is located at 318 N. Santa Cruz Ave. www.beyondtextbookstore.com
A local gem, The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and carousel is open at Oak Meadow Park Saturdays and Sundays, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Snack Shack is open weekends from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds support the operation and maintenance of the railroad. More information on its history is available at bjwrr.org.
Summer means movies, and the historic Los Gatos Cinelux offers comfortable seating and a full snack menu, including adult beverages. The theater also hosts the popular Monday Morning Movies series, now in its third year. Last month saw a sellout crowd; I know because the only seats left were in the first row. Next up is “Best in Show” on Monday, June 1. Organizer Tom Picraux says, “The purpose of these movies is to provide a social occasion for our community and to encourage patronage of our beautiful theater.” www.losgatosthrives.org
June 3 marks the return of GOLD Thursdays. Each Thursday evening, downtown features live music, local promotions and a walkable atmosphere from 5-8 p.m. No tickets are required. New this year is the downtown “Entertainment Zone,” where adults 21 and older can purchase an alcoholic beverage from participating businesses and walk within the designated area from 5-9 p.m. The Los Gatos Perks Pass, a free digital pass, offers ongoing promotions from local shops and restaurants and can be used year‑round. www.losgatoschamber.com
There is also news from Bear Creek Stables, which has been added to the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. The property must meet specific guidelines before opening to the public, but long‑term plans are underway. Rick Parfitt, president of Friends of Bear Creek Stables, expects the site to become a regional recreation area, with trails comparable to Saint Joseph’s Hill. Docents Cindy Clark and Rachel Parakh recently led a preview hike for members of the Saratoga Foothill Club, offering an early look at the site’s potential. Updates will be posted at www.openspace.org.
Los Gatos residents are great supporters of community programs, including the American Cancer Society’s Courageous Kids Day at California’s Great America. Clareen Dunedin of Los Gatos donated a quilt she created for the event’s raffle. Co‑chair Pam Dunnett reported that nearly 300 children and their families from across California came out on Mother’s Day to enjoy amusement park rides, a picnic lunch, face painting, an obstacle course, balloon toss, arts and crafts, family portraits and photos with local figures.
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