In Monterey, California, there may not be snow, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t holiday celebrations! This December, Monterey will be home to all sorts of holiday parades, cheerful events and countless Christmas lights. Here’s your guide to upcoming celebrations like the Annual Holiday Parade of Lights, Christmas on the Wharf and the Lighted Boat Parade.
ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE OF LIGHTS
This year, the annual Parade of Lights will return to Downtown Pacific Grove on Dec 5 from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. Traveling down Lighthouse Avenue, the parade will feature marching bands, holiday floats, dance teams, equestrian groups and, most importantly, Santa Claus. After the parade, surrounding stores will remain open for seasonal shopping, Santa will stick around for photos and entertainment will be provided by local carolers. The parade will happen rain or shine and is free to attend. To see videos of past parades, visit the Parade of Lights web page.
4TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS ON THE WHARF
Each year during the holiday season, Monterey’s iconic Fisherman’s Wharf transforms into a Christmas wonderland, filled with entertainment, decorations and lots of refreshments. This season, Christmas on the Wharf will be on weekends from Dec 6 through Dec 22. Each Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. the Wharf will feature:
- holiday musical entertainment
- community caroling
- holiday lights
- 23-foot Christmas tree
- free Santa meet-and-greets (photo ops included)
- holiday princesses
- complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, hot apple cider and cookies
The best part? The Wharf is completely free to visit! If you’ll be in Monterey this December, make sure you make time to visit Christmas on the Wharf.
BRIGHTEN THE HARBOR LIGHTED BOAT PARADE
Another unique tradition that coastal Monterey celebrates each holiday season is the Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade. This year on Dec 8 from 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., the parade will feature several decorated boats and yachts cruising along Monterey Bay’s coastline. Make sure to arrive early for a good viewing spot.
AFFORDABLE HOTEL IN MONTEREY
Located near several major Monterey attractions, including Fisherman’s Wharf, DeAnza Inn is an ideal place for visiting couples and families to stay. At DeAnza Inn, expect spacious rooms, affordable rates and service from a team of people who care.
Monterey is home to a wide array of holiday celebrations, many unique to its coastal location. When you visit this season, don’t miss the opportunity to attend a few of these events!
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/