With winter quickly approaching, are you dreaming of a bright Christmas with sunshine, mild weather and postcard-worthy scenery? Leave the snow shovels at home and escape with your family this holiday season to Monterey County. From traditional tree lightings to yuletide carols to a twinkling boat parade, the destination boasts celebrations and festivities for residents and visitors alike, creating unforgettable holiday moments.
“The holidays are such a special time in Monterey County as communities put up incredible light displays and plan creative events to celebrate the season,” says Tammy Blount, President and CEO of the Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Bring your children, loved ones and even your four-legged friends and join us in making holiday memories that will last a lifetime.”
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONIES
For many communities, the ceremonial lighting of a Christmas tree is a long-time tradition and marks the official start of the holiday season. Monterey kicks the season off on Friday, November 25th, with Christmas carolers, Santa's reindeer and the 22nd Annual Cannery Row Holiday Tree Lighting. The entire family is invited to join Santa on Steinbeck Plaza. The quaint City of Pacific Grove flips the switch on Monday, November 28th, with an old-fashioned Christmas Tree Lighting and Santa's Christmas Party. As jolly old St. Nick is busy making appearances, don't miss him as he is delivered by the Monterey Fire Department at the City Holiday Tree Lighting and Carmel Plaza Holiday Party on Friday, December 2nd in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. Before the main event, toast the beginning of the holiday season at the Sunset Center with a celebration in the theater library including free portraits in front of their Christmas tree. Also, happening that Friday evening is Historic Downtown Monterey's Traditional Christmas Tree Lighting on Colton Hall Lawn featuring carols, candles, cookies and cheer.
