Take a romantic couple’s trip this June and explore the beautiful city of Monterey. This June, Monterey has some big celebrations going on like the 88th Annual La Merienda, 60th Annual Artichoke Festival and the Monterey International Blues Festival. Start planning your perfect couple’s vacation with the details below!
88TH ANNUAL LA MERIENDA
Celebrate Monterey’s 249th birthday in style at La Merienda on June 1. La Merienda is one of the oldest and most treasured events in Monterey. In fact, it’s such a staple in the community that it attracts 500 people each year. From 11:15 a.m. to 3 p.m., guests will enjoy a five-star barbecue buffet that includes steak, chicken, and much more! Dessert is a multi-layered birthday cake with fresh roses. Located at the intimate Memory Garden, guests are welcome to don costumes. Live entertainment by accordion player Mike Marotta Jr., mariachis and folkloric dancers will take the stage. Tickets for the event are $75. Be sure to call ahead of time to be put on the waiting list.
60TH ANNUAL ARTICHOKE FESTIVAL
Yes, this is actually an event…and quite a popular one! The 60th Annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival will take place June 1–2 at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center. Why artichokes? This Monterey region in particular is actually known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” The event features two days of live music, farmer’s market, wine, beer and spirits garden and guided artichoke field tours. And what’s a festival without some great eats? Try everything from steamed, grilled and fried artichokes, to artichoke burritos. General admission for the Artichoke Festival is $15. The event also offers an “It’s a Date” ticket special which includes two general admission and wine tasting tickets for $60. This is perfect for you and your special someone to have a fun and unique experience, without breaking the bank!
MONTEREY INTERNATIONAL BLUES FESTIVAL
Monterey will be moving to the beat on June 23 at the Monterey International Blues Festival. Performers will take the house down at Monterey County Fair & Event Center from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Headliner Mr. Sipp, The Mississippi Blues Child, is a world-renowned blues artist. While Ms. Trudy Lynn has numerous NO.1 songs on The Billboard Blues Chart. Other performers include Keith Batlin, Terry Hanck, Terrie Obadi and Blues at Eleven. Check back in to see a list all of this year’s food and artist vendors. Tickets for the Monterey International Blues Festival are $40. For $125, purchase a VIP ticket. VIP perks include front row seats and a swag bag with blues memorabilia.
WHERE TO STAY AFTER THE FESTIVAL
After any festival in Monterey, be sure to get a good night’s rest. An intimate Monterey boutique hotel like DeAnza Inn is the perfect choice. This property is an ideal couple’s retreat, conveniently located near many Monterey attractions, including the Monterey County Fair & Event Center.
With so many festivals happening in Monterey, make sure you and your loved one have a place to call home during your visit. DeAnza Inn is the perfect place to stay!
WHERE TO STAY
DeAnza Inn
An ideal couples retreat, with spacious bedrooms and a convenient location near all Monterey Peninsula’s major attractions. 2141 North Fremont Street, Monterey, CA 993940. 800.858.8775
http://deanzainn.com/