What Are The Must-Do Holiday Celebrations in Monterey, California?
There’s something special about the holiday season in Monterey, California: the crowds thin, the warm air turns peacefully crisp, and the serene Pacific backdrop adds a picturesque touch to festive events around town. At Sanctuary Beach Resort, the holidays are a time to reconnect over the joy of the season through local celebrations, culinary gatherings, and coastal charm. From ice skating by the bay to strolling through candlelit adobes, Monterey sets the stage for timeless winter memories.
Monterey Holiday Happenings
Kick off the season at Old Fisherman’s Wharf during the 9th Annual Christmas on the Wharf, where twinkling lights and festive decor transform the historic pier into a seaside wonderland. Enjoy free live music, holiday carolers, and visits from Santa on select weekends from December 5–21, and don’t miss the Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade on December 7, when decorated vessels shimmer across Monterey Harbor. Pose by the dazzling 23-foot Christmas tree and browse artisan goods and handcrafted treats while soaking up the waterfront cheer.
From mid-November through early January, Custom House Plaza transforms into a glistening coastal rink for Ice Skating by the Bay. Skaters of all ages can twirl and glide while overlooking Monterey Bay, then cozy up at East Village Cafe with hot cocoa or a seasonal peppermint latte.
At Cannery Row, the 31st Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony illuminates Steinbeck Plaza on November 28 with colorful lights, festive carolers, and free Santa visits. Explore local boutiques and galleries nearby to find nostalgic gifts for everyone on your wish list, from hand-carved candles to classic confections.
History lovers can step back in time during the 41st Annual Christmas in the Adobes, December 12–14, as Monterey State Historic Park glows with luminaria-lined paths and candlelit windows. Wander through 20 of the city’s earliest buildings during a guided tour, enjoy live music, and hear stories of California’s past while supporting educational preservation programs for local students.
2025 Seasonal Events at The Sanctuary
At Sanctuary Beach Resort, the season unfolds with a lineup of unforgettable celebrations that capture the spirit of the season.
Monarch Butterfly Migration Celebration at Salt Wood
In honor of the annual butterfly migration and the vibrant Marina community, Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette debuts the Blushing Monarch cocktail, crafted with Campari, Grey Goose Orange, orange juice, simple syrup, and passion fruit foam. A dollar from each cocktail benefits the Marina Food Forest, supporting sustainable food access. Available November 1, 2025 through February 2026, this bright, citrusy drink is a toast to the natural beauty of our home and the people who make it thrive.
Gin-gle Garnish Bar with Empress 1908
Available daily in the lobby from 4-7pm throughout December during check-in. Guests receive a complimentary Empress 1908 Winter Cranberry 75 and can personalize their drink with festive garnishes including cranberries, sugared rosemary, and citrus peel—a memorable start to your holiday getaway.
Holiday Artisan Fair
Experience creativity by the coast at The Sanctuary’s family-friendly Holiday Artisan Fair December 6–7. Discover unique handcrafted gifts, tarot card readings, and local artisanal products while savoring Salt Wood’s mulled wine, hot cocoa, and housemade snacks. Children are invited to create seaside-inspired ornaments at our interactive arts table and enjoy meeting friendly goats and horses from Chaparral Ranch Marina.
Oyster Ornament Classes
Celebrate a unique blend of artistry and Monterey’s natural beauty with a decoupage class on December 4, 18, and 26. Let your creativity shine using oyster shells to design coastal-inspired ornaments; a charming, sea-inspired addition to any tree.
7 Fishes + Dessert Christmas Eve Special
On December 24, experience a celebratory “Seven Fishes + Dessert” special featuring a feast of family-style seafood dishes like calamari and salted cod, plus festive sweets including Yule log and eggnog.
New Year’s Eve Dinner & Celebration
Welcome 2026 in coastal style with two seated experiences: a four-course dinner at 5 PM or a five-course gala at 8:30 PM, featuring a midnight Champagne toast and live DJ from 9 PM–12:30 AM. Enhance your evening with curated wine pairings, caviar, or truffle upgrades to make it a celebration to remember.
New Year’s Day Brunch
Begin the new year with a chef-crafted brunch featuring favorites like Lobster Benedict, Wood-Fire Branzino, Orange Marlin in Dashi Broth, Spring Quiche, and a family-style sweets basket.
Monterey’s holiday season offers a refreshing blend of coastal serenity and cozy tradition, and at Sanctuary Beach Resort, our schedule of festive events beckons cherished quality time for families and loved ones. Explore exclusive offers to save on a long holiday getaway and discover just how magical Monterey can be in winter.