Family Activities

Central Coast Allure: an Artist Reception

 
8/24/23
 
free
 
Monterey History and Art Museum at Stanton Center

The Stanton Center presents a free artist reception, 6pm-8pm, celebrating Monica Vigna's photography exhibition, "Central Coast Allure."

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing landscapes of the Central Coast while engaging with the artist herself. Gain insights into the creative process and enjoy delightful refreshments.

Lighthouse Movie in the Park: "North Shore"

 
9/16/23
 
free
 
Scholze Park Community Center

The Lighthouse District is hosting a free outdoor screening of the surfing film North Shore (1987) , featuring some of the legends of pro surfing of that era and great surf cinematography.

The film will be shown at 7:30pm in front of the Scholze Park Community Center. You're welcome to come early and bring a picnic! Remember to dress warmly and bring blankets and/or chairs. No pets or alcohol.

Event Sponsors : Escape Room 831 , Gianni's Pizza , GP Piping , Lilify , Namaste India Bistro , On The Beach , Sunrise Cafe

Johnny Wicks Candle Studio Has Moved!

Monterey, CA

Johnny Wicks candle-making studio and retail shop has moved to 499 Calle Principal. All the candles are clean-burning, made locally using all natural soy wax with 100% cotton wicks and fragrance oils free of phthalates.

Johnny Wicks welcomes individuals and groups for in-store candle-making. The studio aims to provide a socially interactive experience that fosters togetherness and creativity through the captivating world of scents. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can make an appointment online .

Halloween Trick-or-Treat on Lighthouse 2023

 
10/28/23
 
free
 
Lighthouse District

Join us for a spooky good time! On Saturday, October 28, Lighthouse District shops, restaurants, and boutiques will be open and welcoming little goblins with special treats, 2pm-5pm, rain or shine. So dress up the kids, get in the spirit, and come on down with your family to enjoy a fun and safe time in the community.

All businesses handing out candy will be located on Lighthouse Avenue in New Monterey between Reeside and David and will have a Lighthouse Halloween poster displayed in the window.

Celebrate PARK(ing) Day at Parklets in Old Monterey 2023

 
9/15/23
 
free
 
Old Monterey

The City of Monterey invites you to celebrate PARK(ing) Day, when we'll transform parking spaces into temporary parks on Alvarado Street between Pearl and Franklin. These parklets will feature green spaces, outdoor seating, and fun and educational booths.

Abstract Dreams: Free Family Fun Day at Monterey Museum of Art

 
8/5/23
 
free
 
Monterey Museum of Art

Monterey Museum of Art presents a Free Family Fun Day on Saturday, August 5, 11am-3pm. Drop by the Museum for a fun-filled afternoon exploring materials and abstraction in art, inspired by our exhibition The Bruton Sisters: Modernism in the Making .

Featured art activities will include: abstract mosaics, modernist collage, and painting decorative flowerpots.

Open House, 2023 Summer Art Show at YAC

 
7/29/23
 
free
 
Youth Arts Collective

Youth Arts Collective invites you to a Summer Art Show Open House in our studio on Saturday, July 29 & August 5 & 12, 12pm-4pm. View and purchase work by young local artists!

YAC's Summer Art Show will open online on July 29 and run through September. Visit the online show here.

$2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton

 
8/1/23
 
$2/$5
 
Monterey History and Art Museum at Stanton Center

Every other Tuesday is $2 Tuesdays at the Stanton Center Theatre where you can gather with other art minded people and share in the experience of early cinema together.

Family Swim Night at the Campbell Community Center

 
7/7/23
 
$2.50 per person
 
Campbell Community Center
Park and Recreation Month - July 7

Come join us for the Family Themed Recreation Swim Night! We have two fun nights planned for the month of July to celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month. Pre-Registration is required.

Friday...

Family Swim Night at the Campbell Community Center

 
7/22/23
 
$2.50/person
 
Campbell Community Center

Come join us for the Family Themed Recreation Swim Night! We have two fun nights planned for the month of July to celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month. Pre-Registration is required.

Family Fun Day at the Plaza

 
8/12/23
 
FREE
 
Monterey History and Art Museum at Stanton Center

Join Monterey History and Art Association for a free Family Fun Day at the Stanton Center on August 12, 10am-4pm.

Experience the excitement of a photo scavenger hunt around Custom House Plaza, immersing yourself in the rich history of Monterey. Explore hidden corners, capture unique photographs, and compete for prizes.

$2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton

 
7/18/23
 
$2
 
Monterey History and Art Museum at Stanton Center

Grab $2 and join Stanton Center for a screening of a classic movie in our intimate theatre! This is a great chance for you to sit back and relax. Films subject to change - call for film title, 831-372-2608.

Seating is limited and on a first come, first served basis. Cash at the door only; please have exact change. Refreshments available for purchase on site.

$2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton

 
7/11/23
 
$2
 
Monterey History and Art Museum at Stanton Center

Grab $2 and join us for a film screening of a classic movie in our intimate theatre!

Monterey History and Art at Santon Center is introducing $2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton. If you've got two dollars, we've got...

Red Engine Rides at MY Museum

 
7/1/23
 
$25
 
MY Museum (Monterey County Youth Museum)

MY Museum invites you and your children ages 3+ to join us on Saturday, July 1, as we partner with Red Engine Rides for a cruise around town. We're offering 15 minute rides in an open-air fire engine for $25 per person. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Rides depart every half hour, 10am-11:30am. Advance reservations required.

Turkish Arts and Culture Festival 2023

 
8/26/23
 
free
 
Custom House Plaza

All are welcome to the Annual Turkish Arts and Culture Festival for a weekend of free family fun, August 26 and 27, 11am-7pm, at Custom House Plaza. We'll have live music and folk dancing performances, Turkish food and drinks, and special activities for children.

Monterey Public Library Summer Reading Sign Up Event

 
6/3/23
 
free
 
Colton Hall Lawn

Monterey Public Library presents a Summer Reading Sign Up Event featuring Germar The Magician on Saturday, June 3 at 2pm on the lawn of Colton Hall.

Join us for a magical family-friendly show full of laughter and wonder! Arrive early to register for Monterey Public Library's free summer reading program, running June 1 - July 29.

Fleet Feet Monterey: The Big Run 5k

 
6/10/23
 
$45
 
Fleet Feet Monterey

Fleet Feet Monterey invites all runners and walkers to join us on June 10 for the Big Run 5k in celebration of Global Running Day! We're offering both an in-person and a virtual option for 2023. Register online. Fee is $45.

The Monterey course is stoller-friendly. All registered in-person participants will get a medal, technical t-shirt, and goodies from our sponsors.

Monterey County Pops! Free Memorial Day Concert 2023

 
5/29/23
 
free
 
Colton Hall Lawn

Enjoy a free Memorial Day Concert for all ages on the lawn in front of Colton Hall and Monterey City Hall on Monday, May 29.

At 1pm, the Monterey Peninsula Gospel Community Choir will perform under the direction of John L. Nash, Jr.

At 2pm, the full 40-piece Monterey County Pops! orchestra , conducted and hosted by Dr. Carl Christensen, will present an exciting program featuring solo violinist Laura Burian.

$2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton

 
6/6/23
 
$2
 
Monterey History and Art Museum at Stanton Center

Grab $2 and join us for a film screening of a classic movie in our intimate theatre!

Monterey History and Art at Santon Center is introducing $2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton. If you've got two dollars, we've got...

Monterey Garden Tour 2023 Includes New Monterey Homes

 
6/10/23
 
$25
 
Casa Del Oro Garden

Monterey State Historic Park Association and the Historic Garden League present the Monterey Garden Tour on Saturday, June 10, 11am- 4pm. Tickets are $25 per person. Please reserve your tickets online today.

The self-guided tour will feature Casa del Oro Garden at Monterey State Historic Park plus 11 private gardens in the New Monterey Area. Learn about rainwater catchment systems, water-wise plantings, and weed suppression methods.

Fun in the Sun: Free Family Fun Day at Monterey Museum of Art

 
5/6/23
 
free
 
Monterey Museum of Art

Monterey Museum of Art presents a Free Family Fun Day on Saturday, May 6, 11am-3pm. Drop by the Museum for an afternoon of art making and exploration.

Drop by the Museum for a special preview of our upcoming Summer Art Camps. Meet our camp leaders and explore activities ranging from cartoon creation to sustainable art.

Plein Air Painting in Old Monterey

 
4/15/23
 
free
 
Monterey History and Art Museum at Stanton Center

The Old Monterey Foundation presents Plein Air in Old Monterey , featuring artists painting outdoors at historic adobes and gardens on Saturday, April 15, 10am-2:30pm. The public is welcome to stop by and watch the artists at work!

Afterwards, 3pm-4pm, an exhibit and sale of the art will be held on Calle Principal behind Monterey Museum of Art. Awards for the artwork will be announced at 3:30pm.

Red Engine Rides at MY Museum

 
4/15/23
 
$25
 
MY Museum (Monterey County Youth Museum)

MY Museum invites you and your children ages 3+ to join us on Saturday, April 15, as we partner with Red Engine Rides for a cruise around town. We're offering 15 minute rides in an open-air fire engine for $25 per person. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Rides depart every half hour, 10am-11:30am. Advance reservations required.

Block Party at Monterey Museum of Art 2024

 
4/6/24
 
free
 
Monterey Museum of Art

Monterey Museum of Art's is hosting a free Block Party for all ages on Saturday, April 6, 11am-4pm.

Discover local artisans and makers showcasing their unique crafts alongside dazzling performances and a variety of delicious food and drink. Plus, participate in interactive arts activities and enjoy free admission to our latest exhibitions.

Monterey Parks Horticulture Faire and Plant Exchange 2023

 
3/18/23
 
free
 
Colton Hall Lawn

Monterey Parks Division presents the 66th Annual Horticulture Faire and Plant Exchange on the lawn in front of Colton Hall, held rain or shine. In addition to a bounty of plant cuttings, exhibits this year will include information on native plants, drought resistant plants, and more.