Got a Ukelele? Come to Capitola Beach Festival

By Judie Block

Over 20 years ago, two men walked up from the chilly waters of the Capitola shores with surfboards thrust over their shoulders.

They were Geno Gallo and Brad Handzel. As they walked along, they both gazed up at the Capitola bandstand and commented on another activity they shared… ukelele playing.

“Wouldn’t it be fun to get a few of us ukie folks together and sing on the stage with our ukuleles?”

The seed was planted. Shortly thereafter the Capitola Ukulele players began.

The group has grown from 4 or 5 players 20 years ago.

Now in 2023, the group has on a warm sunny day or a foggy chilly morning nearly 50-75 ukers filling the stage. The group, which meets on Sunday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m., has become quite an event that attracts quite a following.

Hula hoopers, children dancing, people sitting on the beach wall with their coffee ..all enjoying the Sunday serenade. The songs sung and played are old favorites from the ‘60s through the ‘90s. The audience is invited to sing and dance along.

This year the group has been asked to entertain at the Capitola Beach Festival.

Anyone with a ukulele is welcome to join in the musical merriment. Grab your coats and grab your hats and don’t miss this joyful and energetic group. They will be on stage Sunday morning, Sept. 25, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. n