In its 44th year, the festival marks the season when the beautiful butterflies begin their migration north for hibernation. At the event, visitors can enjoy crafts, games, storytime, live music with three bands, hand-cranked ice cream, a Monarch superhero skit ending in free cake, gardening tips to help butterflies and more!

Explore the monarch grove to catch a glimpse of the butterflies during the event. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 13, and features a host of activities for all ages.

The event is free to attend; parking is $10 and helps Friends support the park. Natural Bridges State Beach is at 2531 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz.