The Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium was built in 1939 and dedicated in 1940. The entrance's brick walkway is flanked by granite columns. The auditorium is a regular venue for large Santa Cruz events, including the Cabrillo Music Festival and bouts by the Santa Cruz Derby Girls. Luminaries who have spoken or performed at the Civic Auditorium include the Dalai Lama, Bob Dylan and Ray Charles.