Happenings 

The Big Sur International Marathon is a point-to-point course run on scenic CA Highway 1 from Big Sur to Carmel the last Sunday each April. Towering redwoods, crashing waves, coastal mountains and verdant pastures are featured on this bucket list course. The centerpiece of the course is the iconic Bixby Bridge, located at the halfway point of the race, where you’ll enjoy the unique site and sound of a tuxedo-wearing concert pianist playing a Yamaha Avant Guard N3 piano. 

The World’s Toughest Row – Pacific starts in June each year with teams participating from around the World. 

The world’s most technologically advanced sports cars roar back to Monterey for another unforgettable weekend of racing action. The cutting-edge GTP (Grand Touring Prototype) class—featuring powerhouse manufacturers like Acura, BMW, Cadillac, and Porsche—continues to push the limits of speed, innovation, and endurance.

Experience the ultimate fusion of speed, style, and luxury at the Ferrari Challenge, where passionate drivers—both professional and amateur—compete for championship glory. Feel the thrill as the Prancing Horses charge down the legendary Corkscrew at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, showcasing unmatched precision and performance.

Get ready for heart-pounding two-wheel action as the MotoAmerica Superbike SpeedFest of Monterey returns to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in 2026!.

Come pound your way through these rugged trails while enjoying some of the most beautiful views the Golden State has to offer. While your muscles will be on fire, begging for mercy, the awe-inspiring scenery makes everything worth it. What an amazing place to truly become unbreakable.

The community is invited to celebrate the Annual Monterey History and Art La Merienda and the City of Monterey's birthday with a very special barbecue buffet extravaganza, with entertainment by Mike Marotta, Jr. & special guests, mariachis, and folklorico dancers, and a festive "Californio" party in the historic Memory Garden on Custom House Plaza.

805 Night Market is a street food festival—curated vendors, desserts, drinks, music, and pop-up shopping!

Celebrate Mother's Day with a truly unforgettable brunch at the Portola Hotel & Spa in Monterey, CA! Treat Mom and Grandma to a spectacular dining experience the whole family will cherish. Brunch kicks off with a Complimentary Mimosa for Mom to start the celebration on a sparkling note, followed by an exquisite buffet hosted in the elegant De Anza Ballroom. Enjoy the soothing sounds of live music by Dave Conley on piano, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable occasion.

America's most important Bach festival, the Carmel Bach Festival, celebrates its 88th season in 2025 with 15 days of performances, talks and educational events.

A festival in Monterey County focusing on reggae and hip hop music.

The California Rodeo Salinas is one of the top 10 professional rodeos in the US out of over 600 and the largest rodeo in California. With over 110 years of tradition and a little bit of something for everyone, it's an event you don't want to miss.

Good Old Days Street Festival is Pacific Grove’s premier community event. Each year this FREE event draws a great crowd of locals and visitors, rain or shine! Vendors from multiple states display their arts and crafts alongside a wide variety of food booths stretched down historic Lighthouse Avenue, the largest gathering of arts and crafts vendors in Monterey County!

The 33rd Annual Carmel Art Festival on May 15-17, 2026 held in Devendorf Park in Carmel-by-the-Sea, will once again bring together artists and art lovers, visitors, and residents to celebrate Carmel’s artistic heritage and legacy. Viewing of art is FREE.

Bold flavors, great drinks, and live music—Tuesdays are better at Peter B’s in downtown Monterey.