The Holidays
in Monterey County
Celebrate This Winter
in Monterey County
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in Monterey County, where mild weather and snow-free coastal escapes make the season even brighter. From festive Christmas traditions and sparkling New Year’s celebrations to scenic coastal strolls and cozy wine-tasting afternoons, discover a refreshing way to embrace the magic of winter.
Holiday Highlights
Make the season a little more memorable in Monterey County. Skip the snow for mild coastal weather, shoreline strolls and winter whale watching. Gather around a Thanksgiving table, get into the Christmas spirit or toast to a new year by the ocean. Explore holiday events, seasonal offers and getaway packages to find your favorite way to celebrate.
One More Night
in Monterey
There’s always a reason to linger, especially during the holidays. Stay for another leisurely breakfast, an afternoon by the ocean or a festive toast before turning in. Find a place to settle into the season, and give yourself a little more time to enjoy Monterey County.
Stay One More Night
Thanksgiving at Ferrante's Bayview Room
Thanksgiving Dinner at Fin + Field Restaurant
Pacific's Edge at Hyatt Carmel Highlands Thanksgiving Buffet
Thanksgiving Buffet at Portola Hotel & Spa
Thanksgiving at Peter B's
Celebrate Thanksgiving at Jacks Monterey
Thanksgiving Dinner at The Caledonian
3-Course Thanksgiving Feast at Estéban Restaurant
Annual Thanksgiving Feast
Cannery Row Tree Lighting
Santa is Coming to Town at Jacks Monterey
10th Annual Christmas on the Wharf
Map Out Your Holiday Happenings
Find your next celebration, wherever the season takes you. Use the map to explore holiday events across Monterey County, filter by date and choose from Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s festivities. See what’s near your stay or plan a day around something worth the trip.
Where to See Holiday Lights
November 15th – 21st
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11/21/2026
Winter Wonderfest Monterey
Celebrate the season at Winter Wonderfest Monterey, returning to the Monterey County Fair November 21–December 27, 2026. This immersive holiday experience transforms the fairgrounds into a glowing winter destination filled with dazzling…
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Nov. 29th – Dec. 5th
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12/1/2026
10th Annual Christmas on the Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf Association is pleased to announce the FREE 10th Annual Christmas on the Wharf celebration, returning to historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, California, which is celebrating its 181st Anniversary in 2026. This beloved holiday tradition attracts locals and visitors from across the state,…
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12/3/2026
Pacific Grove's Holiday Parade of Lights
23rd Annual Holiday Parade of Lights Thursday, December 3rd, 2026, at 6:00 pm. The parade features marching bands, holiday floats, dance teams, animal groups, and of course, Santa Claus! Participate in the…
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12/3/2026
Winter Wonderland at Portola Hotel & Spa
Portola Hotel & Spa invites you and your family to enjoy in splendor and joy of the holiday season with a Winter Wonderland in our downtown Monterey hotel. The season’s festivities include…
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December 6th – 12th
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12/6/2026
Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade
Experience the magic of Monterey Bay this holiday season at the Brighten the Harbor Boat Parade! From 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm, enjoy a dazzling display of festively decorated boats from the…
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12/8/2026
Holiday at the Inns
44th Annual Holiday at the Inns will take place Tuesday, December 8th from 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Pacific Grove Inns and Properties decorate for the Holidays and invite you to tour…
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12/11/2026
42nd Annual Christmas in the Adobes
42nd Annual Christmas in the AdobesAdd some Monterey magic to your Christmas at the 42nd Annual Christmas in the Adobes. For two festive evenings, Monterey’s historic adobes will glow with the warmth…
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Why Winter Is Special
Winter is when Monterey County slows down and opens up. Gray whales pass close to shore on their migration south, trails through the redwoods and along the coast are quiet and green, and a rainy afternoon is an excuse for the aquarium, a tasting room or a long lunch by the fire. No snow, no crowds, just more room to enjoy it.
