Christmas Events in Monterey County

Holiday celebrations in Monterey County may look a little different this year due to COVID-19 health and safety precautions, but the decorations and holiday spirit are still here! We hope that the beautiful lights, the joy of sharing and simple pleasures like a cup of hot cocoa with an ocean view will create lasting memories of 2020 - a year none of us will ever forget!

What's happening in Monterey for the holidays?

Christmas in the Windows

While Christmas in the Adobes was not able to be held this year, the staff at Monterey State Historic Parks could not let the season pass without paying tribute to the annual holiday festivities, so they dreamed up Christmas in the Windows. For the month of December, visitors can enjoy the festively decorated windows throughout Monterey State Historic Park and learn about how the people of Monterey celebrated Christmases past. Grab some hot chocolate and head down to Monterey State Historic Park - and be sure to catch their holiday playlist on YouTube.

Featured Historic Buildings:

• Custom House
• Pacific House
• First Theater
• Casa Soberanes
• Larkin House

*Note that Larkin House, Stevenson House, and Casa Soberanes windows can be accessed daily between 10:00am and 4:00pm when gardens are open.

Meet Santa and Mrs Claus

Santa and Mrs. Claus are practicing social distancing this year but they're still coming to town! They will be touring around Carmel Valley Village on a fire truck to wave hello to everyone. Follow them on Elf Cam as they live stream their tour!

After the tour you can chat live with Santa and Mrs. Claus via Zoom on Santa Cam. Santa Cam sign up/Registration can be found on the CVCYC website.

The tour route will be: West of the village to Laurel Drive, East to Camp Stephanie, North of CVR up El Camanito and Holman, South of CVR in all neighborhoods on main roads - no side roads with dead ends. For Elf Cam links, registration information and more click here.

Christmas on the Wharf

Old Fisherman's Wharf invites you to capture a wonderful holiday memory. During December through New Year's Day weekend, stop by and enjoy the special Christmas on the Wharf decorations this year. The majestic 30-foot Christmas Tree is surrounded by brightly colored sea creatures that are especially beautiful when illuminated at night, including a sea otter, octopus, sea horses, dolphins and more. There are dazzling decorations up and down the Wharf adorning restaurants, gift stores and fish markets - even the whale watching, fishing and sailing businesses have decorated. Enjoy a fabulous new coordinated music and light show in the evening at the Christmas Tree area, too.

Outdoor Classes at Cooper-Molera Adobe

Union Yoga is now offering outdoor classes 6 days a week in the gardens of Cooper-Molera Adobe. If you haven't been to this space, you'll find it's the perfect spot for yoga classes as well as grabbing a coffee with a friend afterward. View the schedule here. Advance registration is strongly encouraged.

Colton Hall Tree: Decorated for the Holidays

The City of Monterey worked diligently to prepare the big tree on the lawn of Colton Hall for the holiday season with lights and other ornaments. Beginning December 1, the tree will be lit each night until the end of 2020. We invite you to share in the spirit of the holidays and drive by to enjoy the beautiful outdoor decorations.

Christmas Dinners

Leave the stress of the holidays to the fabulous restaurants in Monterey County! Several eateries remain open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to serve up delicious seasonal meals. Click here to see the full list.

Holiday Deals & Specials

Local businesses are offering great deals and specials right now that will last throughout 2021. Take a peek at what is being offered - treat yourself to take-out or grab a gift card for your friends and family.