More than 200 events, performances and festivals in Monterey County attract thousands of people throughout the year. Many come to enjoy the exhibitions and events that run continuously year round. The largest weekly event in California is right here in Monterey: the Old Monterey Market Place is a colorful experience of super-fresh produce, local crafts, and tantalizing smells that’s held rain or shine, every Tuesday.
Annual festivals honor the artichoke, the “stinking rose” (aka garlic), and squid. Produce- and wine-lovers gather to celebrate their favorite harvest with cooking contests, music and fun. Golf tournaments, rodeos, races and air shows attract sports enthusiasts. The diverse population of Monterey County provides an opportunity to enjoy the food and customs of the cultures who have made this their home through festivals. Check local listings in the newspaper or guidebook for detailed information about festivals in the area.
View a complete calendar of events.
Tuesdays
Monterey: 831-655-8070
(Vendors call 831-655-2607)
4-8pm April to October; 4-7pm October to March
Fresh produce, food stalls, Baker’s Alley, plus arts, crafts, collectibles.
Thursdays
Monterey: 831-728-5060
Fresh produce and flowers every Thursday afternoon from 2:30 until 6:00 pm at Monterey Peninsula College lower parking lot.
Sundays
Marina: 831-384-6961
Fresh produce, baked and ethnic foods, cooking demonstrations, live music, and crafts. Sundays from 10am to 2pm at the Marina Transit Station, 280 Reservation Road.
Monterey: 831-372-5477
From 1:30-3:30pm on the first Sunday of each month, enjoy free entry to the gardens and art galleries at La Mirada, with light refreshments and wine available.
Monterey: 831-372-5477
From 5-7pm on the 3rd Thursday of each month, the Museum invites the public to enjoy live local music, wine, and hors d’oeuvres.
Monterey: 831-625-9854
Thursdays and Saturdays at 10:00am
Docent-led tours of historic gardens, including Doud House, as featured in House Beautiful, presented by the Historic Garden League. Tours begin at The Picket Fence shop at 210 Olivier St. Cost is $5.00 per person and reservations are encouraged.
Monterey: 831-657-6348
www.mbay.net
Free guided tours, plus many opportunities to visit historic buildings and gardens. Call 657-6348 for tour times and schedule, or pick up a schedule at Pacific House.
Point Sur: 831-625-4419
www.parks.ca.gov
Three-hour guided walking tour of the historic lightstation that guarded the Big Sur coast. Offered Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations essential as group size is limited.
Carmel: 831-624-1831
www.torhouse.org
ths@torhouse.org
Now a National Historic Landmark, Tor House and Hawk Tower are open for tours (between 10am-3pm) throughout the year on Fridays and Saturdays. Call for reservations. A visit to Jeffers’ extraordinary home is a special experience.