Things to Do in Monterey During the Holiday

Discover the magic of the holidays in Monterey County! Our WhatsUpMonterey Holiday Season Events Roundup brings you a variety of festivities and events perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. From tree lightings and parades to harbor cruises and historic tours, here are some of the top holiday experiences awaiting you in Monterey!

Friday, November 28 – Kick Off the Holiday Season!

Start your holidays at the Cannery Row Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, a festive celebration perfect for families. After the tree lights up, kids can visit Santa in his whimsical toy factory on 685 Cannery Row’s second floor.

Monday, December 1 – Pacific Grove Christmas Tree Lighting

Head to Jewell Park for the Pacific Grove Christmas Tree Lighting from 4:30pm to 7pm. Enjoy live music from school bands, holiday treats, a dance show, and even a visit with Santa at the Jewell Park gazebo.

Thursday, December 4 – Holiday Parade of Lights in Pacific Grove

Experience the joy of the Holiday Parade of Lights on Lighthouse Avenue in downtown Pacific Grove. Watch marching bands, holiday floats, dance teams, and equestrian groups pass by, rain or shine, as the shops stay open late for seasonal shopping and photos with Santa. The parade begins at 6 pm.

Friday, December 5 – Monterey Community Christmas Tree Lighting

Join Monterey’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration on the lawn in front of historic Colton Hall. This free, community-sponsored event features carols, candles, cookies, cider, and live music for all to enjoy.

On the same day, Christmas on the Wharf opens at Old Fisherman’s Wharf with a dazzling display of lights, holiday entertainment, treats, photo ops with Santa and holiday princesses, and a beautifully decorated 23-foot tree. Festivities continue every weekend until December 22.

In Carmel-by-the-Sea, celebrate at the annual City Holiday Tree Lighting in Devendorf Park, where the Monterey Fire Department will escort Santa. Events start at Sunset Center at 3 pm until 5 pm, with a short music program and pictures by the Holiday tree. Santa will arrive at Devendorf Park and greet the children at 3pm. At 4:30pm, the music program begins and ends at 6 pm when Santa Claus makes an appearance for the countdown to light the tree, downtown median, and park lights - all of which light up simultaneously!

Head to Carmel Plaza Holiday Open House from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm to enjoy more holiday festivities, including live music, a visit with Santa, delectable treats, children's activities and more. Special promotions are also available at select stores!

Also on this day, you can celebrate the season at the Marina Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration at Vince DiMaggio Park — a beloved community tradition filled with lights, music, and holiday cheer. Enjoy carolers, festive treats, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus as the park’s towering evergreen comes to life. This free, family-friendly event kicks off a weekend of joy with Santa in the Neighborhood the following day.

Sunday, December 7 – Brighten the Harbor

Catch the Monterey Yacht Club’s "Brighten the Harbor" lighted boat parade! Watch as festively decorated boats glide along the Monterey Bay coastline from 5 pm to 7 pm, filling the waterfront with holiday cheer.

Tuesday, December 9 – Holiday at the Inns

Explore beautifully decorated inns during Holiday at the Inns, a walking tour through some of Monterey’s most charming and historic accommodations. This unique event captures the magic of the season with live music, holiday decor, and a festive atmosphere.

Friday & Saturday, December 12 & 13 – Christmas in the Adobes

Step back in time at Christmas in the Adobes, where Monterey’s historic adobes are illuminated with candle-lit luminarias. This family favorite offers festive music, historical reenactments, and holiday warmth in over a dozen historic buildings from 5 pm to 9 pm.

Saturday, December 13 – Run Rudolph Run 1K/5K Race

Run Rudolph Run 1K kids' fun run and 5K timed or untimed run/walk are great ways to bring friends, family, dogs, and the community together to kick off the holiday season while decked out in your favorite attire!

Sunday, December 31 – Ring in the New Year

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with First Night in Monterey, a community-focused, alcohol-free event featuring performances from jazz and classical to reggae, as well as dance, art, and activities for the entire family. The event begins at 3 pm, culminating with the Twilight Procession at 5:30 pm and celebrations lasting until midnight.

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.

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.

Enjoy the Season in Monterey!

From holiday classics to unique local traditions, Monterey has something for everyone. If you’re searching for non-holiday activities, be sure to check our upcoming events calendar to keep the fun going all season long. Bookmark this guide and check back often as new holiday events are added!