Experience the Castro Adobe, the newest California State Historic Park, three ways in June!

First, visit the Castro Adobe on Saturday, June 11, for "Castro Adobe in the 20th Century," a free open house event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The adobe’s story began in Mexican California, but it didn’t end when the last Castro left. The families who called the Castro Adobe home in the 1900s strengthened the structure, beautified the grounds and ultimately put this property on track to come together as a State Park in the Pajaro Valley. Carpooling is encouraged because parking is limited. The Castro Adobe is at 184 Old Adobe Road in Watsonville

For those who can't make the open house — or want to learn more about the Castro Adobe — the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History will host a Pop-Up State Park as part of the 3rd Friday Festival. 3rd Fridays connect diverse community groups, artists and visitors. The June theme is "Changemakers."  Transport yourself to Watsonville's Castro Adobe: participate in a scavenger hunt, then play Californio games, make a tortilla ranchero style and learn to rope. The event will be 6-9 p.m. Friday, June 17, at the MAH, 705 Front St. in Santa Cruz.  Tickets are $3-$5.

Also, Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks will host a Vaquero Heritage Tack Talk led by noted historians Griff Durham and Bruce Haener, 1-4 p.m., Saturday, June 25. The talk begins at 1:30 p.m., and the fundraiser event also includes a tour of the park and refreshments. Cost is $25-$100 (attendees choose the amount of their donation). RSVP by calling 831-429-1840 or email.