Events in Monterey, CA

Estéban Restaurant launches a new Friday night tradition featuring a 12-ounce porcini-crusted prime rib served with grilled asparagus, creamy horseradish sauce, and smashed potatoes enriched with dry-aged beef fat. The complete Friday special is priced at $49. Reservations are recommended.

Settle in by the fireplace and enjoy live piano from Dave Conley in the lounge. The warm setting creates a relaxed atmosphere for his performance.

The 4th Annual Monterey Peninsula Vintage Ride brings together fans of classic bicycles for an easygoing group outing. Riders will meet in a Walmart parking lot, with parking encouraged near the gas station side of the lot to keep clear of store traffic. Expect about 47 miles at a conversational pace, with Eddy Magdaleno guiding the group so no one misses a turn. The plan includes a midpoint lunch stop at Pebble Beach Market and the traditional group photo near the eighteenth hole at Pebble. Participation has been growing, with just over sixty cyclists taking part last year. As a bonus, printed event posters created by Frank Grape will be handed out to attendees. Travelers can also look forward to the Classic Rendezvous vintage gathering the following weekend, featuring multiple rides in the Davis and Sacramento areas along with a bike swap and show in Davis, with routes usually mapped by club founder Albert Roldan.

Relax by the fireplace while listening to live piano from Dave Conley in the lounge. Performances are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Del Monte Shopping Center hosts a seasonal Sunday farmers market held from May to September. It takes place regardless of weather and is set up in the rear parking area behind California Pizza Kitchen.

Téada, a renowned Irish traditional ensemble, returns to St. Mary’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church for an afternoon of music. Grounded in the heritage of Ireland, the group brings a lineup of six seasoned players. They have headlined major festivals across North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia. This appearance offers a chance to hear Irish tradition brought to life by artists with a worldwide reputation.

Celebrate the coast with a special featuring $1 West Coast oysters, freshly shucked by the team at Estéban's. Enjoy them with a squeeze of lemon or add Chef Steven's spiced house-made hot sauce. Reservations are highly recommended, and the $1 oyster offer is first come, first served.

The Monterey Peninsula Gospel Community Choir presents 'Richard Smallwood' at Carmel Sunset Center, featuring special appearances by Dottie Jones, the original singer for Smallwood, Charrisse Nelson, lead singer of Vision, Damien Sneed of Juilliard and Howard University, John Wineglass, a violinist and Emmy Award winner, Ellaina Lewis, Seattle’s classical soprano, Rusty Watson, Northern California president of Thomas A. Dorsey’s choirs and choruses, Derrick Hall, Robin H. Williams, an international gospel soloist, Lawrence Matthews, and Martin Wood, a Chicago baritone.

At the Sardine Factory Lounge, pianist and vocalist TJ Kuenster presents a wide-ranging set that spans country, rock, and classic standards associated with Sinatra and the American songbook. The performance showcases his dual talents at the keyboard and microphone across multiple genres.

Presented by the Women’s Council of REALTORS Monterey Peninsula Network, this annual fundraiser combines a daytime golf tournament with a speakeasy style evening featuring live jazz, networking, and celebration centered on community impact. Hosted at The Club at Pasadera, the experience blends sport, style, and purpose, culminating in a memorable finish to the day. More information will be announced.

Geoff Tate is featured in Operation: Mindcrime - The Final Chapter, presented as a special event.

The Birth Network of Monterey County offers a no-cost postpartum gathering in Pacific Grove that is open to the community. Meeting each month, it provides a warm, welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and find support during the period after birth.

Experience a four day celebration of film, movies, and television in Carmel-by-the-Sea. International and local filmmakers present screenings at the Golden Bough Theatre, followed by Q&A sessions with filmmakers and actors. The schedule also includes parties and networking centered on career growth for up and coming filmmakers. Featured guests include Lifetime Achievement honoree Stephen Nemeth, producer of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Academy Award nominee Eric Roberts, cinematographer Walt Lloyd, production designer Stephen Altman, and actress Frances Fisher from Unforgiven. Additional guests will be announced, and participation is subject to change.

Jessica Kirson performs at the Golden State Theatre, bringing plenty of laughs to the stage.

The Ultimate Street Car Association brings the sixth stop of the 2026 season to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in California. Over a full weekend, competitors and their cars are evaluated for performance, street capability, and craftsmanship. Drivers take on five disciplines that shape the results: autocross, a road course time trial, the speed stop challenge, design and engineering judging, and a road rally. Scores across these segments decide the Ultimate Street Car for each class at this round, and class winners from these events earn a chance to compete for the overall title in Las Vegas during the SEMA Show.

The Green brings island energy to Downtown Monterey with special guest Johnny Suite, sharing the aloha spirit.

Acclaimed trumpeter Chris Botti appears live in concert, showcasing his signature sound and emotive melodies. The performance offers an evening of expressive trumpet playing that highlights his artistry and stage presence.

Now in its 17th year, this Carmel, California celebration features a poodle parade along with additional activities and parties. Furry companions are welcome. More information and registration are available online.

Protecting clean water takes daily dedication. Monterey Waterkeeper works throughout the Central Coast to curb pollution, restore waterways, and ensure every community can access safe, affordable drinking water. In the gardens of the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, this gathering welcomes neighbors, advocates, and supporters who care about safeguarding our region’s most essential resource. Attendees can enjoy a relaxed outdoor setting, connect with others who share this commitment, gain insight into local water protection efforts, and discover meaningful ways to support clean water initiatives across the Central Coast.

A Personal Financial Manager will be available at this Money Matters pop-up to answer quick questions about finances. Find the PFM in front of NPS Cafe Del Monte. For special accommodations, contact Angelica Sagastume at 831-656-3528.

Killer Queen, a tribute to Queen, will perform at the Golden State Theatre. The show celebrates the band's music.

At the Money Munchkins Pop-Up, children explore how to keep their money safe and make thoughtful choices through a playful, hands-on craft. Kids ages 3 to 10 will color, cut, and assemble a make-it-yourself shield that represents protecting their money, learning about saving, spending wisely, and money safety as they create. Parents receive simple tips to continue teaching smart habits at home in a fun way. For special accommodation requests, contact Angelica Sagastume at angelica.felixsagastume@nps.edu or 831-656-3528.

An annual luncheon during Domestic Violence Awareness Month brings the community together at Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside. Connected with YWCA Monterey County, the gathering emphasizes awareness, collective strength, and support for survivors, with a focus on helping individuals move from survival toward thriving.

Experience a lively weekend of bike culture at Monterey County Fairgrounds. The second annual District 36 reunion brings enthusiasts together to display bikes and racing bikes, share stories, and enjoy some bench racing. Music, vendors, bars, dancing, and dinner round out an Oktoberfest-inspired celebration.

The Marina Rotary Club presents the 11th Annual Car Show supporting community programs for kids and seniors. The $75 entry fee includes all grass parking, one catered BBQ lunch, two root beer floats, one participant only raffle ticket, one free Poker Walk play for cash prizes, and one event T-shirt limited to pre-registered participants. Extra lunches are available to pre-registered participants for $15. Free coffee and donuts are provided at check in. Expect about 200 cars and more than 50 awards, including 10 custom made Major Awards. Food trucks, a swap meet, a huge raffle, and a silent auction round out the day.

The 27th annual Monterey Bay Walk & Roll to Cure ALS is an outdoor gathering at El Estero Park that raises funds for free ALS care services and for research aimed at effective treatments and cures. People take part in honor of those living with ALS, in memory of loved ones, and in support of the ALS community. The experience blends purpose with moments of connection and fun for everyone who participates.

Laughs head to the West Coast as Brian Regan performs live at the Golden State Theatre.

This class clarifies how anger differs from assertiveness, stress, and aggression. You will learn to assess and understand your own anger, build skills to manage it, and use calming strategies when situations become stressful.

Roger McGuinn appears live in concert, presenting an evening of music drawn from his celebrated catalog. Enjoy fan favorites performed with the artistry and stage presence that have defined his career, creating a warm and memorable night of live music.

This tequila festival is larger than ever and features its most extensive sale to date.

Ingrid Michaelson takes the stage for an intimate evening featuring Allie Moss and Hannah Winkler.

At Golden State Theatre, Twin Peaks: Conversation With The Stars celebrates the groundbreaking series created by Mark Frost and David Lynch. Presented by David Roy Williams Entertainment under license from Paramount Location-Based Experiences, the event features cast members sharing firsthand stories from on camera and behind the scenes. VIP ticket holders can have a photo taken with members of the Conversation With The Stars cast, and autographs will be available as a separate purchase. The show honors a television phenomenon that premiered in 1990 and returned in 2017 as Twin Peaks: The Return with many of the original cast. Known for its devoted following and frequent placement on lists of the greatest TV series, Twin Peaks is also available on digital platforms and streams on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.

Steven Curtis Chapman brings the Speechless 25th Anniversary Tour to Golden State Theatre in Monterey, CA, celebrating a quarter century of his landmark album. Experience the record performed from beginning to end with favorites such as “Speechless,” “Dive,” “Be Still and Know,” and “Fingerprints of God,” plus additional hits and a few surprises. The tour returns for its final run. VIP entry will open before general doors, then the performance will begin, and the schedule is subject to change. Tickets are on sale. For buyer protection, third party resale is not permitted on TPR event pages, and purchasing through the official ticketing outlet is recommended since third party tickets are not guaranteed and may limit access to updates and assistance.

The Monterey Bay Pickleball Open takes place at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa, featuring a $7,000 purse and amateur divisions. Players can compete for the purse or simply for glory.

Blippi arrives in Downtown Monterey with the Be Like Blippi Tour, lighting up the Golden State Theatre. This live production blends playful learning with interactive moments for an upbeat evening suited to kids and their grown-ups. It offers a family-friendly experience that encourages curiosity and participation throughout.

Carmel Guitar Society presents Grammy-winning classical guitarist Jason Vieaux in concert at Founders Theatre in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Celebrated for dazzling technique, lyrical expression, and compelling musicianship, he has appeared at renowned venues including Lincoln Center, the Concertgebouw, and the Seoul Arts Center. His concerto appearances span orchestras in Cleveland, Toronto, Houston, St. Louis, and Columbus, along with premiere recordings with the Nashville Symphony and the Norrköping Symphony. A champion of new music, he has premiered works by Jonathan Leshnoff, Jeff Beal, Avner Dorman, Vivian Fung, and David Ludwig, and Pat Metheny composed Four Paths of Light specifically for him. His discography features the Grammy-winning Play, Bach Volume 2: Works for Violin, Shining Night with violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, and Concierto del Luna with flutist Alexa Still. A dedicated educator, he co-founded the guitar department at the Curtis Institute of Music, teaches at the Cleveland Institute of Music, and leads an online guitar school through ArtistWorks. The program is approximately 75 minutes, and tickets are priced from $55 to $80.

A community celebration honors 100 years of the Sunset Cultural Center with live performances, storytelling, gallery access, and activities for all ages. Attendees can explore the arts and cultural traditions that have shaped this long-standing gathering place for generations. Free admission, no ticket required.

This weekend event includes a Masquerade Ball on Saturday as part of the festivities.

Joe Newberry and April Verch share the spirit of home on the Otter Opry stage at Monterey United Methodist Church, drawing on roots from the Missouri Ozarks and Canada’s Ottawa Valley. Newberry grew up in a family of singers and dancers, picked up guitar and banjo early on, and learned classics from Missouri fiddlers. Verch was immersed in her father’s country dance band, began step dancing at three, and started fiddling at six. Their concert blends original songs with time-honored favorites, weaving in stories that trace the music’s lineage. Expect lively fiddle and banjo tunes, precise step dancing, and harmonies that invite listeners to tap their feet. Optional dinner is available before the performance for an additional charge. Tickets are $35, with a discount for CBA members, and admission is free for those 15 and under.

A creative 3 or 4 day crop takes place at Embassy Suites by Hilton Monterey Bay Seaside in Seaside, California. Pricing is $375 for three days or $425 for four days. The hotel is two blocks from the beach and is offering a special room rate of $235 for a king suite or $245 for a double queen suite. The room rate includes breakfast and an evening reception.

The Bay Area hard rock band Y&T returns to the Golden State Theatre.

Paul Cauthen brings a night of soulful music, captivating performances, and powerful vocals that showcase his distinct sound. This live concert is presented as an unforgettable experience, perfect for sharing with friends.

California Bluegrass Reunion returns to the Otter Opry stage at Monterey United Methodist Church, celebrating California’s bluegrass traditions with an ensemble of California-based musicians. The performance spotlights the fiddling of Chad Manning and includes original instrumentals from mandolinist John Reischman and banjo player Bill Evans. Jim Nunally provides guitar and vocals alongside Mike Witcher on dobro, Max Schwartz on bass, and Sharon Gilchrist on mandolin. The program opens with a four-song set by Nell & Jim, featuring Jim Nunally on vocals, guitar, and banjo, with Nell Robinson on vocals and miniflute. These artists have collaborated in various lineups for decades, and this appearance brings them together once more. Tickets are $35, $30 for CBA members, and free for ages 15 and under. Online ticket sales end the day of the performance.

Joanne Shaw Taylor brings a powerhouse show with her band, spotlighting songs from her latest album, Black & Gold, alongside favorites from earlier releases. Celebrated for blazing guitar work and expressive songwriting, she mixes blues, rock, soul, and pop while letting her vocals lead every moment. The set also features heartfelt nods to classic blues legends, weaving tradition into a modern sound. A vibrant performer at the top of her game, she delivers an evening built to resonate long after the final note.

Gary Numan's North American Fall Tour 2026 stops at the Golden State Theatre.

An Otter Opry matinee features The Crooked Jades at Monterey United Methodist Church, a celebrated ensemble that digs deep into rural Americana while stretching the boundaries of traditional bluegrass. Expect driving rhythms, soulful singing, inventive harmonies, and arrangements that highlight a mix of seldom-heard repertoire and vivid original tunes. Guided by founder Jeff Kazor’s vision to revive pre-radio sounds for today, the group performs on an eclectic array of often vintage instruments. The lineup includes Jeff Kazor on vocals, guitar, and ukulele, Joshua Zucker on bass, Lisa Berman on vocals, slide guitar, banjo, and harmonium, Amy Kassir on fiddle, and Erik Pearson on vocals, banjos, ukulele, harmonium, and slide guitar. Praised by audiences and critics for surprising chord choices and powerfully crafted material, the band brings a captivating energy to the stage. Online ticket sales close the day of the performance, with tickets also available at the door. Admission is $35, CBA members $30, and ages 15 and under are free.

A class for parents of children ages 6 to 12 at Fleet & Family Support Center Monterey focuses on practical guidance for raising school-age kids. Explore how children grow through the elementary years, the difference between discipline and punishment, and how various parenting styles influence behavior and family dynamics. The session highlights effective, everyday strategies for nurturing positive behavior, offers tips for addressing challenging situations, and underscores the importance of caregiver well-being through self care.