Welcome to the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium Dedicated in 1940 in downtown Santa Cruz, the Civic Auditorium is classic California. Arched granite pillars cover the brick entryway and warm pastel colors fill the hallways to create an inviting, slightly deco atmosphere. The Civic has hosted Ray Charles, Smashing Pumpkins, Dalai Lama, Bob Dylan and Ani Difranco. The building is home to the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music and the Santa Cruz County Symphony. Sporting events include the Santa Cruz Derby Girls, Dad's Club and the U.S. Open Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Tournament.