Eureka is the center of the marble universe, home to the most hair-raising leg of the Kinetic Sculpture Race, and, as the county seat of Humboldt County, the cultural home of the thriving north coast cannabis industry. As the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland, you’ll find a distinct and authentic energy here, conveyed through unique experiences and one-of-a-kind events.
The heart of Humboldt County, the heart of the Emerald Triangle. The same ethos that drives the robust landscape of artisanal businesses, local eateries, and commitment to preserving the pristine bays, beaches, and redwoods is present in the developing cannabis landscape in the city. Looking for overall wellness solutions? You’ll find them here — Papa & Barkley, California’s award-winning cannabis wellness company, is based in Eureka and deeply committed to the local community and clean and sustainable cannabis practices. Looking for more of a recreational experience? You’ll find that, too. Knowledgeable “budtenders,” who highlight the best of Humboldt’s products, populate downtown dispensaries.
The City of Eureka is uniquely “business-friendly,” supporting cannabis manufacturers, distributors, and dispensaries forward-thinking actions and policies with no cannabis tax and dedicated city staff supporting cannabis business planning. In the future, the city will allow cannabis consumption lounges.
Humboldt Patient Resource Center (HPRC), 445 4th St
Proper Wellness Center Dispensary, 517 5th St
Humboldt's Premium, 1131 Broadway St
Heart of the Emerald, 103 5th St
Humboldt County Collective, 1670 Myrtle Ave Ste B
EcoCann Dispensary, 306 F Street
Dr Greenthumb's, 1672 Myrtle Avenue
Kiskanu, 2200 4th St
The Kinetic Sculpture Race, or the “Triathlon of the Art World,” takes place annually over Memorial Day weekend. Teams of local artists work year-round developing remarkable moving sculptures — all-terrain, human-powered — that race down over 50 miles of land, sand, water, and mud. The Eureka-leg sees spectators gather to watch competitors engage in the perilous water-entry, where their crafts hopefully float. Competitors race down the Eureka waterfront - “all for the glory.”
If you aren’t in town for the race, check out the Kinetic Museum, where over fifty years of kinetic history is on display. Guided tours are available every weekend or by appointment.
Most of Eureka’s distinctive events stem from our thriving community of artists. For the local glass-blowing community, Eureka is the center of the marble universe, and hosts an annual event in February to celebrate marble makers and the distinctly satisfying feeling that comes from finding a tiny piece of rounded art tucked amongst ferns in the stump of a giant redwood tree. Curious how to get involved? It’s as simple as exploring Eureka’s nooks and crannies for hidden marbles - but, if you find one, it’s recommended you leave one behind. Get the how-to here.
Humboldt Mable Weekend, February, annually
Glass Garage, 215 C Street
Soulshine Arts, 411 5th Street
Humboldt Roller Derby is Humboldt County’s premiere all-female sports organization, committed to empowering women and juniors while giving back to the loyal community. If you’re lucky enough to be in town for a scrimmage, expect to be delighted and excited - you’ll never look at a roller skate the same. Bouts are family friendly.