Monterey Events * Calendar of Events for Monterey County * Things to do in Monterey, CA

MONTEREY PENINSULA 2010 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

July

Carmel Bach Festival: 7/17/10 – 7/31/10

The Carmel Bach Festival has a 72-year history of artistic excellence and community service. Musicians from the around the world will perform in venues including the Sunset Center, Carmel Mission Basilica, Church in the Forest, Pebble Beach, and All Saints Church.
http://www.bachfestival.org/ (831) 624-1521

Moss Landing Antique Street Fair: 7/25/10

Hundreds of antique booths set up on the streets of Moss Landing for the Moss Landing Antique Street Fair, selling antique furniture and every kind of vintage item imaginable.
http://www.seemonterey.com/mosslandingantiquefair 831-633-4501.

Feast of Lanterns Celebration: 7/30/10- 7/31/10

For over one hundred years the citizens of Pacific Grove have celebrated its history and culture with a summer festival called the Feast of Lanterns. This Festival has evolved over its 100-plus year history from the ceremonial end to the Chautauqua Assembly with a lantern parade. This is a multi-cultural community event filled with entertainment.
http://www.feast-of-lanterns.org/ 831-649-8737

Monterey Bay ReggaeFest: 7/30/10 – 8/1/10

The 15th annual Monterey Bay Reggaefest, one of the largest reggae festivals in Northern California, features over 25 performances from star reggae performers, dancehall acts, and cultural dancers throughout the three-day celebration. The fun isn't limited to music for those in attendance at the 20-acre Monterey Fairgrounds in Monterey, California. Adults can enjoy the full bars in the Turf Club and Beer Garden, a D.J. party, and the annual 3 on 3 Basketball Tourney. Children will enjoy the jump houses, face painting and other activities in the play area, while teens hang out in the Teen Lounge. Vendors offer unique arts, crafts and food, ensuring that you never have to leave the festival gates or miss an act.
http://www.mbayreggaefest.net/ (831) 394-6534

August

Steinbeck Festival: 8/5/10 – 8/8/10

This annual festival consists of four days of films, speakers, panels, theater, and bus or walking tours. The National Steinbeck Center honors the great 20th-century writer John Steinbeck (1902-1968) and is situated in Salinas, Monterey, the town where the author was born. The Steinbeck Festival takes place each August at the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, California. It features film and theatrical presentations, speeches and discussions, children's art workshops, a fair and tours of the local area, including the author's boyhood home.
http://www.steinbeck.org/Festival.html (831) 775-4724

Carmel Valley Fiesta: 8/6/10 – 8/8/10

Shout, “Ole!” at this family-oriented fiesta that includes games, a dog show, a parade, good food and dance.
http://www.cvkclub.org 831-644-6180

Winemakers Celebration: 8/7/10

Nearly 45 Monterey County Wines will pour new releases and special wines at this event in Monterey's Custom Plaza The schedule also includes educational seminars, barrel building, live music and a silent auction.
http://montereywines.org/ 831.375.9400

Concours on the Avenue: 8/10/10

Ocean Avenue and adjacent streets become a pedestrian gallery lined with museum-quality automobiles. This is a free event, juried event with over 175 cars on display which takes over 16 blocks of Carmel. See rare cars not usually shown during Historic Car Week!
http://www.motorclubevents.com/ 404-237-2633

Automobilia Monterey Annual International Expo: 8/10/10 – 8/11/10

Automobilia Monterey 8th international expo, brings together, in America, the finest dealers in automotive memorabilia. The timing of this event is specifically set not to conflict with others during the most important automotive week of the year.
http://www.automobiliamonterey.com/ 831 659 5335

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance: 8/11/10 – 8/15/10

A tradition going back over half a century, the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is where the world's collector cars meet and compete. Only the 175 best collector cars in the world roll on to the legendary eighteenth fairway at Pebble Beach, and only a handful of those will receive official recognition for the style, technical merit and historical accuracy of their vehicles.
http://www.pebblebeachconcours.net/ 831-622-1700

A Brighter Light Lecture Series: 8/12/10

This month's Brighter Light Lecture series features "Conservation of Objects," presented by Linda Wilde Hon. The lecture will be held in the Stanton Center Theater with a 6pm reception and 7pm lecture. Tickets are $10, free to members. http://montereyhistory.org/events/ (831) 372-2608

Monterey Sports and Muscle: 8/12/10 – 8/14/10

Russo and Steele is celebrating its 10th Anniversary "Monterey Sports and Muscle at the Marriott" in downtown Monterey August 12-14; concurrent with the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Thursday, August 12th, is a preview day and Friday-Saturday are auction days. It is the hottest ticket to the weekend festivities billed as the "Mecca of Collector Automobiles", from elegant Concours d'Elegance displays, vintage automobile racing at Laguna Seca, and the Russo and Steele Sports and Muscle Friday and Saturday night August 14th and 15th, this prestigious car crazed weekend sells out fast!
http://www.russoandsteele.com/monterey_schedule.html (831) 649-4234

Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion: 8/12/10 – 8/15/10

For the true motorsports enthusiast there is no event quite like the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, formally known as the Historic Races, at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Not only are history's most significant race cars accessible in paddock areas for spectators to admire at close range but over 400 historic race cars performed, racing wheel-to-wheel and thrilled the 40,000 fans that were there for the 2009 race. The event is a cornerstone of Monterey Peninsula Classic Car Week, a veritable feast of things to see and do for car lovers, and utilizes the renowned Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca like no other on the facility's calendar. With practice on Thursday and Friday and warm-ups Saturday and Sunday mornings, racing begins after noon each weekend day for 15 race groups that span nearly every era of motorsports history.
http://www.mazdaraceway.com/ 831.242.8201

Concorso Italiano: 8/13/10

The legendary Concorso Italiano, with special honoree Jay Leno, makes its home at the Laguna Seca Golf Ranch this year. This year the Concorso Italiano will focus on the Lamborghini, including a surprise special exhibit of a unique element of Lamborghini's heritage as well as the brand-new Gallardo VB.
http://www.lagunasecagolf.com/sites/courses/view.asp?id=292&page=6001
888-524-8629

Concours Auto Rally & BBQ: 8/13/10

Lighthouse Avenue in Pacific Grove will evoke even more of the feel of yesteryear during the Pacific Grove Concours Auto Rally. Over two hundred cars will participate at this event, which is free for spectators. Entry fees from participants will benefit charity.
http://www.pgautorally.org/ 831.372.6585

RM Auction: 8/13/10 – 8/14/10

This famous sports car auction is one of the world’s largest, featuring 180 classic vehicles in all.
www.rmauctions.com +1 519 352 4575

Farmers Market at Del Monte Shopping Center: 8/15/10 and every Sunday through October
Local farmers from Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Market will hold their 2nd Annual Del Monte Shopping Center Farmers Market sponsored by Del Monte Shopping Center and Whole Foods Market. It will be located in front of the Petco parking lot and open 8am to Noon every Sunday through October. Farmers and vendors will be selling fresh produce, farm fresh organic eggs, honey, fresh seafood, potted plants, seedlings, fresh cut flowers, baked goods, and specialty teas. The community is invited to come out and support our local Monterey farmers.
http://www.shopdelmonte.com/ 831.373.2705

Boats and Beats: 8/18/10 and every Wednesday till September 29th

With the weather getting warmer and the sun setting later, having a drink is just much better outdoors. The only rooftop venue on the Monterey Bay hosts a weekly event where you can enjoy a drink and live music while breathing in the ocean air, watching the sun set and enjoying the sailboat races. Boats & Beats will take place every Wednesday from May 5 to September 29. Deep House and Lounge grooves will be provided by the turntables of Dj Sparkinzi.

Art After Hours: 8/19/10

Every third Thursday the Monterey Museum of Art is open from 5-7pm with free admission, plus wine and appetizers!
http://www.montereyart.org/ 831.372.3689

Live Music at Jose’s: 8/20/10

Enjoy live music from Callow at Jose's Mexican Bar & Grill. Music begins at 9pm
www.myspace.com/loungeunderground

Sand City’s West End Celebration: 8/21/10 – 8/22/10

The annual West End Celebration is an exciting blend of art and industry in a newly transformed area of the City dubbed 'SoHo West'. The celebration features live music, dance and street performances as well as great food and of course the creative wares of local artists and artisans.
http://www.sandcity.org/ (831) 394-3054

Pizza Secrets Class at Cantinetta Luca: 8/24/10

Learn the secrets of making great pizza at home from the experts at Cantinetta Luca. In this lively, hands-on, two-hour class with Neapolitan pizzaiolo Giuseppe Panzuto, you’ll learn about proper heat, making a great dough, shaping the pizza, different styles to consider, and everything else you’d want to know about the world’s favorite food. Maximum 10 people per class, so make your reservation early. $60 per person, includes pizza to eat and your very own Cantinetta Luca chef’s apron
http://www.cantinettaluca.com/events.html 831-625-6500.

Blue Ocean Film Festival and Conservation Summit: 8/25/10 - 8/29/10

BLUE Ocean Film Festival is a global film festival and conservation summit for underwater filmmakers and marine researchers. A simultaneous community festival will share the best of the film competition with the public, and will include presentations from the filmmakers and scientists who created them.
http://www.bluefilmfest.com/ 831.324.0357

September

Monterey County Fair: 9/1/10 – 9/6/10

The annual Monterey County Fair is always fun, with livestock exhibition, entertainment, live music, amusement and delicious food!
http://www.montereycountyfair.com/ (831) 372-5863

Evenings by the Bay: 9/4/2010

Spend summer evenings on the bay with extended aquarium hours until 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays in the summer. Get a few more hours to commune with our animals, and enjoy special programs, live music and special events. Monterey Jazz Festival Student Combos to perform at "Evenings by the Bay" on September 4th

Monterey Greek Festival: 9/4/2010 - 9/6/2010

Be Greek for a weekend! Every Labor Day weekend, Monterey becomes a part of the Mediterranean as the Monterey Bay Greek Festival takes over Custom House Plaza. You won't be able to resist the mouthwatering smell of traditional Greek food. While you're munching on dolmades, you can watch traditional dance, listen to music, and even learn a little at a cultural lecture.

Evenings by the Bay: 9/5/2010

Spend summer evenings on the bay with extended aquarium hours until 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays in the summer. Get a few more hours to commune with our animals, and enjoy special programs, live music and special events. Monterey Bay Jazz Orchestra to perform at "Evenings by the Bay" on September 5th.

Boats & Beats: 9/8/2010

Wine, Art & Music Walk: 9/10/2010

A walking tour of Pacific Grove's finest art venues. The event is complimentary and open to the public. Art Walk maps will be available at any of the participating locations and at the Chamber. The hours are from 6:00-9:00 pm. More info: 831-373-3304 or www.pacificgrove.org

Cherry's Jubilee: 9/10/2010 - 9/12/2010

Mark your calendar for September 10-12, 2010. Whether it is the coastal views, the "Cork Screw" on the famous Mazda Laguna Seca Track, or the pure beauty of the hot rods, classic cars and motorcycles, Cherry's Jubilee 2010 will provide a "Jaw-Dropping" good time. Toss in the great wine and food the Peninsula has to offer, plus the camaraderie with car and motorcycle folks and you have the makings of a great weekend.

The Triathlon at Pacific Grove: 9/10/2010 - 9/12/2010

The City of Pacific Grove and Tri-California Events would like to invite you to come and experience The Triathlon at Pacific Grove. Start with the unique "Kelp Crawl" swim and then enjoy the looped bike and run courses surrounding Lovers Point. The 2010 event will again feature two days of racing along the picturesque California coast as well as a 3-day Health and Fitness Expo. For more information, or to register, visit: www.tricalifornia.com. Deadline to register is September 9th.

Cherry's Jubilee on Cannery Row: 9/11/2010

Cannery Row is Destination Fun on Saturday Night! Starting at 3pm, ’73 and earlier Cherry’s cars pull onto Cannery Row for the best show and shine around. With food, fun, music and cars on Cannery Row, there is something for every car lover. Enjoy the casual to fine dining at Louie Linguini’s, The Fish Hopper, Paradiso, The Whaling Station and The Sardine Factory, the rock’n pubs, clubs and live music at Bullwacker’s, Sly McFly’s, and Blue Fin, all of the great shopping, and of course the best show and shine around.

Boats & Beats: 9/15/2010

Twilight Bicycle Rides: 9/15/2010

Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca's monthly track twilight cycling program on the 2.238 mile circuit is open to all levels of cyclists who wish to ride and train on the world famous race track. The cost is $10 per rider and a portion of the proceeds is donated to charity. For more information call 831-242-8201.

Monterey Jazz Festival: 9/17/2010 - 9/19/2010

The 53rd annual celebration attracts all of the top names in jazz, and boasts art exhibits, jazz clinics and seminars.

Boats & Beats: 9/22/2010

Carmel Authors & Ideas Festival: 9/24/2010 - 9/26/2010

The annual Authors & Ideas Festival will be held from September 24 through 26, 2010 in Carmel, CA. This intimate event, founded by Jim McGillen in 2007, allows literature lovers to hear authors speak, attend book signings, and even have casual conversations and exchanges with the well-known writers in attendance. For tickets and more information visit: www.carmelauthors.com

Monterey County Studio Artists Tour: 9/25/2010 - 9/26/2010

On the last weekend of every September, the artists of Monterey County fling open their doors. Art lovers can see completed works, works in progress and the environment in which these craftspeople create their art, while enjoying refreshments. The grand opening party will be held at the Pacific Grove Art Center on September 24 and is open to all. Every artist participating in the 21st Annual Monterey County Artists Studio Tour will have a work on exhibit at this event.

Monterey Gem & Mineral Show: 9/25/2010 - 9/26/2010

51st Annual Gem, Mineral and Fossil show sponsored by Carmel Valley Gem & Mineral Society will take place at the Monterey County Fairgrounds in the Monterey Room. Admission is $3.50 and $1 off with any printed reference. Childrend under 13 are free with an adult. For more information visit http://www.cvgms.org or call (831) 659-4156.

Otter Days: 9/25/2010 - 9/26/2010

The weekend includes special programs, a family craft room, face painting and otter-related prizes—including a chance for families to win behind-the-scenes tours of the Aquarium's sea otter exhibit. You'll also learn about efforts to save California's threatened southern sea otter population, from the Aquarium's Sea Otter Research and Conservation program.

Boats & Beats: 9/29/2010

October

Annual Butterfly Parade & Bazaar: 10/2/2010

Local elementary school children welcome the Monarchs to Pacific Grove during this annual parade (10:30am), followed by the Butterfly Bazaar behind the Robert Down School. More info: 831-646-6540.

30th Annual California International Airshow: 10/2/2010 - 10/3/2010

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will fly above the Salinas Valley as part of the 30th Anniversary celebration of the California International Airshow. The Thunderbirds fly six F-16 jets in formation at air shows across the United States each year, performing in front of millions of spectators. The Salinas Airshow is recognized as one of the most successful, community-based air shows in the Country which is produced each year by an all-volunteer committee driven organization. The Salinas Airshow has raised over $7 million dollars for local charities since its inception in 1981. For more information, please go to the Air Show’s website at www.salinasairshow.com

Rota Psychic Fair: 10/2/2010 - 10/3/2010

For over 27 years Rota Productions has been bringing the best of Body, Mind and Spirit events. This event is not like any other psychic fair, the Rota festival has over 35 of California's best psychics, healers and readers. Admission is $10, healings are $20. For more information please visit http://www.rotapsychicfair.com/

Historic Home Tour: 10/3/2010

A tour of prime and selected Victorian and historic homes, bed & breakfast inns, and churches. Docents provide a history of each location, highlighting Pacific Grove’s traditional hospitality. Co-sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, Pacific Grove Art Center, and the Heritage Society. The hours are from 10:00am to 3:00 pm. More info: 831-373-3304 or www.pacificgrove.org

Carmel Art & Film Festival: 10/6/2010 - 10/10/2010

The Carmel Art and Film Festival will screen at least 50 independent films including feature length, documentaries, shorts and student films and even 3D. The event hub is the Sunset Center, with many other venues within walking distance. The festival will also include painting, sculpture, photography and music. For tickets and more information visit: carmelartandfilm.com

Monterey History Fest: 10/7/2010 - 10/10/2010

Now in its ninth year, Monterey History Fest has grown into a festival that offers a variety of programs for both residents and visitors to experience Monterey’s unique cultural heritage and historic resources. Sponsored by the City of Monterey, Monterey State Historic Park (California State Parks) and Monterey History and Arts Association, History Fest has developed a plentiful schedule designed to bring Monterey's past to life during this community-wide event. The schedule includes including special lectures, living history reenactments, storytelling, period costumes, tours of historic homes and secret gardens, workshops, dances, film, art, music and museum exhibits designed to delight children, fascinate the history buff, intrigue the gardener or family genealogist, and even reel in the fisherman! All events are free of charge unless otherwise noted. For additional information, visit www.historicmonterey.org or call 831-372-2608.

Architecture/Design Home Tour: 10/16/2010

This event celebrates the architecture and design work of the peninsula's top architects. The tour will spotlight several properties and will focus on architecture, design, furnishings and landscaping. The hours are from 10:00 to 3:00pm. More info: 831-373-3304 or www.pacificgrove.org.

Twilight Bicycle Rides: 10/20/2010

Art After Hours: 10/21/2010

Every third Thursday the Monterey Museum of Art is open from 5-7pm with free admission, plus wine and appetizers!

Global Tuner Grand Prix: 10/22/2010 - 10/24/2010

This event will be the first in the world to embrace the best of the European, Asian and U.S. tuners. The weekend will include the Pirelli Drivers Cup, historic stock cars, car corrals, vendors, top motorsport manufacturer displays and a SoCal Euro car show. It is more than just a weekend of racing as the GTGP is poised to provide the automobile enthusiast an entire weekend of fun at the track with activities and things to see. Tickets are $10 for Friday and $15 per day for Saturday and Sunday or $35 for a 3-day pass. Children under 12 are free and parking is complimentary. For additional information about the Global Tuner Grand Prix, please visit mazdaraceway.com or call 800-327-7322.

Big Sur River Run: 10/23/2010

Lace up those sneakers for this annual 10-kilometer foot race and 5-kilometer walk among the redwoods and along the Big Sur River. Proceeds from the races benefit local charities.

Wine, Art & Music Walk: 10/29/2010

November

Big Sur Half Marathon & Run Forrest Run 5K: 11/14/2010

The Eight Presentation of the Big Sur Half Marathon on Monterey Bay to be held November 14, 2010! Please join us for a run or walk along the "Edge of the Western World." Come for the run and then take some time to enjoy the many pleasures of the world-renowned Monterey Peninsula.

Callaway Golf Pebble Beach Invitational: 11/16/2010 - 11/21/2010

The Callaway Golf Pebble Beach Invitational attracts professional and amateur golfers of all stripes to Pebble Beach. The play in this unique tournament is fierce, the setting is breathtaking, and it's free for spectators. The Invitational gives spectators a special chance to watch their favorite golfers in a more intimate and relaxed environment; viewers can even walk down the fairway right behind the golfers.

Twilight Bicycle Rides: 11/17/2010

Art After Hours: 11/18/2010

Every third Thursday the Monterey Museum of Art is open from 5-7pm with free admission, plus wine and appetizers!

Christmas at the Inns: 11/30/2010 - 12/1/2010

Visit 10 bed & breakfast inns decorated for the holidays in Victoria-era splendor. Limited number of tickets sold. Entertainment and light refreshments served. The hours are 6:00pm - 9:00pm. For information & tickets $20 per person, call: 831-373-3304

December

9th Annual Holiday Parade of Lights: 12/2/2010

Lighted parade will feature marching bands, holiday floats, dance teams, equestrian groups, and of course, Santa Claus. After the parade, stores will remain open for Holiday shopping & wagon rides, photos with Santa & carolers. This event begins at 6:00pm. More info: 831-373-3304 or www.pacificgrove.org

Christmas in the Adobes: 12/9/2010

Experience Monterey’s beautiful historic buildings illuminated by candlelight during this annual event. Costumed volunteers provide entertainment and refreshments. 5PM - 9PM

12th Annual Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival: 12/10/2010 - 12/12/2010

The very special 12th Annual Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival and Christmas Art & Gear Show (www.montereycowboy.org) will be held from Friday through Sunday, December 10, 11 and 12, 2010. The festival will be held at the Monterey Conference Center located at One Portola Plaza, in downtown Monterey, CA. This popular annual event for all ages celebrates Monterey’s contribution to our western heritage with cowboy poetry, song, and a first class Christmas Western Art and Gear show. The festival brings together people from all over the United States to enjoy and learn more about the “cowboy way of life,” including its history, current values and culture. For more information, to become a sponsor, a volunteer, visit the website at www.montereycowboy.org or call 1-800-722-9652.

Christmas in the Adobes: 12/11/2010

Experience Monterey’s beautiful historic buildings illuminated by candlelight during this annual event. Costumed volunteers provide entertainment and refreshments. 5PM - 9PM

Twilight Bicycle Rides: 12/15/2010

Art After Hours: 12/16/2010

Every third Thursday the Monterey Museum of Art is open from 5-7pm with free admission, plus wine and appetizers!

First Night Monterey: 12/31/2010

Cap off your holiday celebration with a New Year's Eve to remember! First Night Monterey celebrates the lively arts scene in Monterey County; this family-friendly event is a celebration of the arts. Over 30 venues hold concurrent performances and activities for both children and adults, culminating in a convergence on Custom House Plaza to ring in the New Year. Live music ranges from classical to Irish traditional to experimental hip-hop. There will be dance performances, great food and lots of surprises!

All Dates Subject to Change.