Best New Year's Eve Events in Monterey County

WhatsUpMonterey New Year's Events Roundup has us feeling grateful as it's full of ways to get the most out of life in Monterey County throughout the holiday.

Experiencing the New Year in beautiful Monterey County, California can be a pure joy for anyone. If you want to enjoy a fantastic Monterey NYE (New Year's Eve) experience, you don't have to fret at all. There are quite a few exciting NYE dinner and event options available to people in the area. Checkout our NYE picks for the top events: (updated weekly)

FIRST NIGHT MONTEREY

As a community celebration of the arts on New Year's Eve, First Night in Monterey is an exciting, imaginative, and uplifting cultural event. FNM is an affordable, alcohol-free family celebration from 3 pm to midnight. Performances range from Classical to Hip-Hop, Jazz to Reggae, dance ensembles and artwork created at our year-round outreach programs. Kids' Night Out features music, art & activities for the little ones, culminating with the Twilight Procession at 5:30 pm.

NOON YEAR'S EVE PARTY

Celebrate with MY Museum’s Staff and Board of Directors for an unforgettable “Noon Year’s Eve Celebration” complete with noisemakers, face painting and party hats. Watch the Noon Year’s Ball light up as we count down together. This family signature event, from 10am to noon, has become a much-anticipated celebration. Members: Free, Non-Members: $15.

NEW YEAR'S EVE DINNERS

Carmel-by-the-Sea

You can say hello to the brand new year in Carmel-by-the-Sea at elegant Anton & Michel, a sophisticated American eatery that's full of beautiful fireplaces and fountains. From 5pm to 11pm, the restaurant will host a classic ala carte dinner that's full of timeless favorites and also includes some irresistible seasonal specials.

Carmel Highlands

Enjoy a fantastic five-course New Year's Eve Dinner with a view of the Pacific Ocean, live music, party favors, and a champagne toast at Pacific's Edge Restaurant at the Highlands Inn. Dinner will be served from 5:30pm to 9:30pm.

Carmel Valley

Ring in the New Year with a focus on healthy, seasonable, sustainable, yet decadently prepared fare at Bernardus Lodge. The 6-course tasting menu costs $250 per person, plus tax & gratuity, served from 5:30pm to 9:30pm.

Monterey

Set sail into 2026 at Monterey’s most anticipated New Year’s Eve celebration at Portola Hotel & Spa. The De Anza Ballroom transforms into a nautical-chic escape filled with smooth Yacht Rock vibes, coastal sophistication.

Whether you want to gather for appetizers and cocktails on New Year's Eve or enjoy a wonderful late breakfast on New Year's Day, The Lantern Room at Monterey Beach Hotel has options. Secure a private dining room, reserve a communal table, or grab a seat at the bar. We’ve got endless seaside options to gather with friends, new and old. And special holiday menus forthcoming for that will tantalize your pallet.

Pebble Beach

Ring in 2026 in unforgettable style at The Inn at Spanish Bay’s Midnight Garden Gala! Step into a world of lush greenery, rich florals, and elegant garden-inspired décor as you celebrate the final night of the year in pure luxury.

Have a wonderful holiday. If you’re looking for other holiday events, check out the upcoming events calendar.