The city of Watsonville is located in  the fertile Pajaro Valley on the southern edge of Santa Cruz County. In this region, agriculture remains the leading industry. In fact, Watsonville is known as both, “The Strawberry Capital of the World” and “Apple City of the West.” In the spring, miles of orchards, some over 100 years old, burst into blossom. From acres of orchards and fields, a great quantity of strawberries, lallieberries, apples, lettuce, brussel sprouts, and colorful flowers are gathered to be shipped around the world. Each year, more than 85 factories pack and process over $100 million worth of produce.

Characterized as a quiet, friendly community, Watsonville is known for its historic charm and small-town appeal. The city is proud of its many impressive structures that date from the mid-nineteenth century. Over the years, residents have collaborated and worked to ensure that vintage structures were carefully restored and refurbished to reflect their original charm and grandeur. The broad Main Street of today is a true community center lined with family restaurants, unique shops, and department stores.

Watsonville’s largest annual event is the Antique Aircraft Fly-In. Memorial Day weekend, thousands of visitors and residents alike come together at the Watsonville Airport to see antique and experimental aircraft and to watch demonstration and stunt flying.