Last year, the Santa Cruz American Music Festival launched in fine style with an epic Memorial Day weekend that included sets by Bonnie Raitt, Big & Rich, and Ryan Bingham. This year, the festival is back, with a two-day lineup that features 11 artists spanning country, blues, roots, New Orleans, and more. Blues legend Buddy Guy and multi-platinum country star Josh Turner are headlining, but the fest is full of gems straight down the bill, from Trombone Shorty and Carolyn Wonderland to David Nail and Leaving Austin. CAT JOHNSON
INFO: 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 28 and 29. Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road. $65-$120. 454-7900. WANT TO GO? Go to santacruz.com/giveaways before 11 a.m. on Friday, March 17, to find out how you could win a pair of Sunday tickets to the festival.
