The Monterey Peninsula is easing into December festivities with a full slate of holiday traditions and community gatherings that run through the end of the month.
The Winter Wonderfest opened last weekend at the Monterey County Fairgrounds and runs weekends through Christmas. The new event features a walk-through light show, a holiday market and special events, like photos with the Grinch on Sundays, carolers and a visit from the cast of Pacific Repertory’s production of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” For tickets and more information visit https://winterwonderfestmonterey.com/
Christmas on the Wharf returned Friday for its ninth year at Old Fisherman’s Wharf, kicking off three weekends of holiday lights, live entertainment and Santa visits. Decorations will stay up through early January, including the wharf’s 23-foot Christmas tree, and a new wooden “Under the Sea” display.
Performances begin this weekend with choirs, dance troupes and local musicians appearing through Dec. 21. Groups scheduled include The Dance Center’s Musical Performance Troupe and the Joint Services Choir on Saturday, followed by performers including Katherine Lavin, Pacific Pop n’ Jazz, and Saxophonia on Sunday. Shows continue each weekend afterward with folk dancers, hula performances, choirs, and the Jingle Jammers on the final day.
Santa will stop by Fridays through Sundays, offering free meet-and-greets and photos. In addition, a Salvation Army toy drop is set up at Santa’s House.
Christmas on the Wharf will also host several special events. The Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade will be Sunday from 5:15 to 7 p.m., with a fleet of decorated boats passing by the Wharf around 5:30 p.m. Nearby, Ice Skating by the Bay will stay open daily through Jan. 4 at Custom House Plaza.
Wharf merchants will sell seasonal drinks and cookies each weekend, with additional treats at local candy shops. Holiday shopping, boat tours and waterfront dining round out the month-long celebration.
Also returning next weekend is the 41st annual Christmas in the Adobes on Dec. 12–13, from 5 to 9 p.m. More than a dozen historic adobes across Old Monterey will open for evening tours. Several sites will offer music, refreshments and access to rooms rarely open to the public. Proceeds support Monterey State Historic Park’s education programs and restoration efforts.
In Marina, The Sanctuary Beach Resort is hosting its Holiday Artisan Fair on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The outdoor event features local makers, festive décor, tarot readings, food and drink from Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette, and a children’s craft table.
Carmel Plaza will host the Carmel Bach Festival’s annual Community Caroling on Dec. 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. The free sing-along invites residents and visitors to gather for classic holiday songs with provided lyric sheets.
Pacific Grove’s Asilomar Hotel & Conference Grounds will offer two family-friendly events later in the month. Stories with Mrs. Claus will be held Dec. 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Social Hall, featuring read-alouds, cookies and hot chocolate. Breakfast with Santa follows on Dec. 21, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Crocker Dining Hall, with a hot buffet and photos with Santa.
