Downtown Old Monterey is fortunate to be home to two very worthy non-profit organizations that work with children and youth: Monterey County Youth Museum (MY Museum) and Youth Arts Collective (YAC). We ask you to consider supporting local kids at all stages of their development by donating to these two organizations through Monterey County Gives this season. Now through December 31, participating community partners will match a percentage of your gift, increasing the impact of your donation!

MY Museum
MY Museum believes that every family with young children should have the opportunity to visit the museum regardless of their socio-economic status, and is committed to making that happen through reduced admission programs. But we need your help to sustain this.

Our School Subsidy Program offers reduced field trip rates of just $5 per child and no cost for teachers and chaperones. And, as part of the national “Museums for All” program, any family with an EBT or WIC card issued by the State Welfare Department can enter the museum for the reduced admission price of $2 per person for up to 4 people.

YAC
An after-school art studio for artists ages 14-22, YAC is an artist collective built to support and engage Monterey County's young artists. Professional artists working in the studio mentor each YACster in technical and life skills, fostering confidence, gratitude, and respect.

Most importantly, YAC connects students with a community of other young people who share a passion for art, providing a place that feels safe yet pushes students to new possibilities of self-exploration. It encourages relationships built around mutual respect, creativity, and compassion. And it provides a community of adults who care about and support young artists for exactly who they are.

Johnny Wicks Candle Studio invites you to join us in our third annual holiday gift drive for foster children, the Foster's Fosters Christmas Experience. The mission of this project, organized by Johnny Wicks founder, Johnny Foster, is to bring joy, laughter, and a sense of belonging to those children who, for various reasons, don't have the opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas like most of us do.

Whether it's a warm coat, a special gift, or a memorable Christmas experience, every dollar you donate brings us one step closer to making their dreams come true. Every contribution counts, no matter how big or small. Together, we can ensure that these children have a wonderful, heartwarming, and unforgettable Christmas.

We welcome donations of gifts and gift cards dropped off during business hours at the Johnny Wicks Candle Studio, 499 Calle Principal in Downtown Old Monterey, or you can make a financial donation online here. The candle studio is open Wed, Thu, Sun, 12pm-5pm, and Fri & Sat, 12pm-6pm. You can also find us at the Downtown Old Monterey Farmers Market on Tuesdays, 4pm-7pm.

It's pie time! Come to Alta Bakery and Cafe and preorder pies for your Thanksgiving festivities. We have 3 delicious options: classic pumpkin pie ($36), pecan-honey pie ($38), and apple pie ($40). To order, visit us at 502 Munras Avenue in Downtown Old Monterey or click here. Pickups available on Tuesday, November 21, and Wednesday, November 22.

This Thanksgiving, Paris Bakery is offering a beautiful selection of pies - pumpkin, pecan, apple, blueberry, cherry, key lime, lemon meringue, peach, and mincemeat - in addition to special themed cookies and a full assortment of fresh breads and baked goods.

Preorder your Thanksgiving delights by Sunday, Nov. 19 at 2pm for pick-up on Wednesday, Nov. 22 - call us at 831-646-1620. A family-owned business, we're located at 271 Bonifacio Place in Downtown Old Monterey.

Snow season is coming, and On The Beach is getting our Snow Tech Shop and Snowboard / Ski Rental Department ready for the season. We recently received all-new skis and ski boots for our rental fleet. Let's hope for snow and a great snow season!

Learn more about our snow season services and rentals at the shop, 693 Lighthouse Avenue in Monterey.

Family-owned La Bahia Restaurant, home of the best miches in town, now has party packages for the holiday season! We're offering our very own michelada mix, chamoy drip, and drippy cups. But you have to pre-order 24 hours in advance - give us a call at 831-884-5269.

La Bahia is open Tue-Sun at 675 Lighthouse Avenue in Monterey.

When choosing where to host the holiday party for your business or organization, don't get stuck in a rut with the same old places and ideas. Board & Brush offers a unique setting for teams to collaborate, socialize, and get creative together at our studio at 458 Alvarado Street in Downtown Old Monterey.

Our studio is for EVERYONE...and we promise your group will leave with lasting memories and a piece of decor they'll be proud of. Learn more about our corporate event offerings here.

At Board & Brush, we work to perfectly curate each event to fit your team’s unique needs. From a large variety of design options to virtual offerings in case some of your team is not local - we're here to help make your event a success.

Let Alta Bakery & Cafe and Cella Restaurant & Bar in Downtown Old Monterey help you craft an unforgettable holiday party with luncheons, private dining, and catering.

Picture a gathering of family and friends, savoring a hearty, shared feast curated by Chefs Cal Stamenov and Ben Spungin, complete with the perfect wine pairings by Bernabe DeLuna. And let’s not forget the delightful custom cocktails crafted by Joshua Perry, adding that extra flare to your dining adventure.

Our family-style meals are all about bringing people together, whether it’s a snug get-together or a lively rehearsal dinner. We’ve got you covered with options, from substantial hors d’oeuvres to casual cocktail-style service, giving your event that personal touch. With our versatile venues, including a cozy heated pergola, an inviting dining room, and a private event space, we can host a variety of gatherings.

Planning a celebration for 14 or more? Email Lily at Cella to discover how we can make your event extraordinary. We’re excited to help you craft unforgettable memories during this holiday season and beyond.

The Feral Market now carries these whimsical new keychains made by Pigeon Print Shop in Monterey. We have 3D printed forest pixies, spiders, skeletons, and more, all with articulated joints so they bobble and wiggle along with you. They're delightful. Come and see them at the shop, 261 Alvarado Street in Downtown Old Monterey.

Pumpkin spice season is in full swing! East Village Cafe now has delicious pumpkin cheesecake muffins and slices from our pumpkin cheesecake loaves available for a limited time only. Stop by the cafe and try them at 498 Washington Street in Downtown Old Monterey.