Monterey, California Holiday Events & Specials That Bring Joy This Season

Get into the spirit of the season with exciting holiday events in Monterey, California. Make memories with friends and family at exciting festivals and parades, enjoy live performances, and smile at the Christmas light displays. Enjoy special Thanksgiving dinners, New Year's Eve celebrations and shopping for under the tree. Rather than wait for the holiday frenzy to hit, take a calm moment now to make a plan for the holidays and check that first item off your holiday to-do list. Book a holiday getaway at Victorian Inn with rates starting at $129 on select dates. With our latest hotel specials, spending the holidays at our boutique property is truly an unforgettable experience. To book call 800-232-4141 or email [email protected].

Monterey Holiday Events

Ice Skating by the Bay

Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2019 - Sunday, January 5, 2020
Celebrate the holidays amidst the scenic coastline at Ice Skating by the Bay's seasonal ice-skating rink located in Custom House Plaza behind Portola Hotel & Spa. The ice rink is open daily Monday-Saturday from 11am-10pm and Sunday from 12pm-8pm.

Holiday Season on Cannery Row

Date: November 22, 2019: Cannery Row Tree Lighting
Location/Address: 700 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
Monterey might not have snowflakes, icicles or other traditional winter-season trappings, but there's no shortage of holiday cheer in this charming coastal destination. During the 25th annual Cannery Row Tree Lighting celebration on Friday, Nov. 22, seasonal merriment transforms the street that Steinbeck made famous.
The free event kicks off at 4 p.m. in Steinbeck Plaza (corner of Cannery Row and Prescott Avenue). Revelers can mix and mingle with Kris Kringle himself; some of his reindeer will also be available for photos. After snapping selfies with Santa, guests are invited to sing along with classic holiday carolers. The family-friendly festivities culminate with the evening's headlining event: the lighting of the Cannery Row tree at 5:45 p.m.

Santa's Workshop on Cannery Row

Date: Every Saturday & Sundays from 12 - 4PM, November 30th - December 15th, 2019
Location/Address: 685 Cannery Row, Monterey, Ca 93940
Families and children of all ages can visit with Santa for FREE at Steinbeck Plaza on Cannery Row.

Christmas in the Adobes

Date: Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14, 2019 from 5pm-9pm
Location/Address: Monterey State Historic Park 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA 93940
Step back into Monterey's past during Christmas in the Adobes. See the adobes by candlelight and enjoy refreshments and live performances as volunteers in period attire welcome you into historic homes decorated in historical style. The twenty 19th-century adobes, lit by luminaries and enhanced with period decorations, are within an easy walk of each other. Learn while you celebrate; docents and volunteers will be on hand to tell the story of each of these charming buildings, many of which are only open to the public during this celebration. Tickets are $25 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-17 (must be accompanied by a paying adult), and free for children ages 5 and under. Buy tickets online.

Monterey Holiday Shopping

Cannery Row Shopping

Address:700 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940

Del Monte Shopping Center

Address: 1410 Del Monte Center Monterey, CA 93940

Monterey, CA Hotel Holiday Specials

Make lasting memories at the Inns of Monterey
Celebrate the holidays in Monterey, California, where the spirit of the season comes alive this season. Create new traditions while dining at Esteban Restaurant. Savor Thanksgiving Dinner with the family, make a reservation for a great Christmas dinner, and celebrate the New Year.