Last updated: November 11, 2024
Celebrate the holidays in Monterey with our ultimate event guide. For Monterey residents and newcomers, this guide is your ticket to a joyful holiday season.
One of the highlights of the season is the festive **Christmas on the Wharf**, where you can enjoy the enchanting atmosphere, live music, and delicious treats along the scenic waterfront. Another cherished event features the spectacular **Cannery Row Holiday Tree Lighting**, where a beautifully adorned tree illuminates the historic district, creating a perfect backdrop for photos. And the **First Night Monterey** is something you definitely don't want to miss, as it offers a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration filled with art, entertainment, and fireworks to ring in the new year. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Monterey Holiday Light Displays
Cannery Row Holiday Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Family-friendly holiday event with Santa meet-and-greets.
- Description
- The 30th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Cannery Row features family entertainment starting at noon, culminating in a tree lighting ceremony at approximately 5:45 p.m. in Steinbeck Plaza. Following the ceremony, children can meet Santa Claus in his new toy factory located inside 685 Cannery Row.
- Where
- Monterey | More Info : Cannery Row Holiday Tree Lighting
Monterey Yacht Club's Brighten the Harbor
- What to Expect
- Decorated boats with holiday lights and decorations.
- Description
- The Monterey Yacht Club's Brighten the Harbor features beautifully decorated boats cruising along the Monterey Coast, showcasing their holiday lights and decorations.
- Where
- Monterey | More Info : Monterey Yacht Club's Brighten the Harbor
Holiday Parade of Lights
- What to Expect
- Coastal-themed holiday parade with diverse floats and performers.
- Description
- The Holiday Parade of Lights in Pacific Grove celebrates the essence of coastal California living with a Sand and Sea theme, featuring marching bands, holiday floats, and Santa Claus. The parade runs through downtown Lighthouse Avenue, showcasing the rich diversity of Monterey Bay.
- Where
- Pacific Grove | More Info : Holiday Parade of Lights
Monterey's Community Christmas Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Traditional holiday celebration with local music and refreshments.
- Description
- Monterey's Community Christmas Tree Lighting features carols, candles, cookies, cider, and music by Mike Marotta Family & Friends on the lawn in front of historic Colton Hall.
- Where
- Monterey | More Info : Monterey's Community Christmas Tree Lighting
Carmel-by-the-Sea Holiday Tree Lighting
- What to Expect
- Unique blend of holiday traditions and festive activities.
- Description
- The annual City Holiday Tree and Menorah Lighting Celebration in Carmel-by-the-Sea takes place at Devendorf Park on Ocean Avenue between Junipero and Mission. The event features Santa Claus arriving via fire truck, a menorah lighting ceremony, and a holiday tree lighting ceremony. Following the tree lighting, Carmel Plaza hosts an open house with live music, visits with Santa and Martin the Magical Elf, face painting, and kids' activities.
- Where
- Carmel-by-the-Sea | More Info : Carmel-by-the-Sea Holiday Tree Lighting
Monterey Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Christmas on the Wharf
- What to Expect
- Free weekend live entertainment and Santa visits amidst dazzling holiday lights.
- Description
- Christmas on the Wharf in Monterey, California, features stunning holiday decorations, live musical performances, Santa visits, and festive activities for all ages.
- Where
- Monterey | More Info : Christmas on the Wharf
First Night Monterey
- What to Expect
- Family-friendly, alcohol-free community arts celebration with diverse performances.
- Description
- First Night Monterey is a premier New Year's Eve celebration in Monterey County, featuring a diverse lineup of visual and performing arts, interactive art installations, and family-friendly activities.
- Where
- Monterey | More Info : First Night Monterey
Monterey Other Holiday Activities
Stillwell's Fun in the Park
- What to Expect
- Complimentary rides and petting zoo for kids.
- Description
- Stillwell's Fun in the Park is a festive holiday event at Caledonia Park in Pacific Grove, featuring complimentary rides, bounce houses, a petting zoo, and entertainment for kids of all ages. Santa Claus will arrive at noon, joining Frosty the Snowman and Snow Queen.
- Where
- Pacific Grove | More Info : Stillwell's Fun in the Park
Christmas in the Adobes
- What to Expect
- Early evening walking tour of beautifully decorated historic adobes.
- Description
- Explore historic adobes in Monterey adorned with holiday decorations, enjoy festive music, and hear stories about the city's earliest buildings.
- Where
- Monterey | More Info : Christmas in the Adobes