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Articles by Monterey Bay Staff

Explore National Parks for Free with the America the Beautiful Access Pass

If you have a child or family member with a permanent disability, there’s an excellent opportunity to explore nature’s beauty—for free. The America the Beautiful Access...

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Free Summer Concerts in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties

Looking for a fun and budget-friendly way to enjoy summer evenings with the family? Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties offer a variety of free outdoor...

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Favorite Fridays Return to Del Monte Center with Free Tribute Concerts

Get ready for a summer of live music as Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey brings back its popular Favorite Fridays concert series for 2025. From May...

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Monterey Skates Brings Roller Skating Back to the Peninsula

Roller skating enthusiasts in Monterey have reason to celebrate as Monterey Skates opens its doors at the Monterey County Fairgrounds. Founded by Max Troyer and Morgan...

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Special Olympics Track & Field Day Brings Together 1,000 Student Athletes in Monterey

Monterey Peninsula College will be bursting with school spirit, cheers, and inspiration on Friday, May 9, 2025, as nearly 1,000 student athletes from across Monterey County gather for...

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Plan Your Perfect Family Day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium

A trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must for families exploring California’s Central Coast. With its world-renowned exhibits, interactive experiences, and stunning oceanfront...

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Best Family Events for Monterey County Families for May 2025

Discover free festivals, family activities, storytelling, music, and more across Monterey County this month. Whether you're looking to enjoy spring festivals, get creative in the...

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Top 10 Monterey Attractions for Families

If you're planning a trip or staycation and searching for the best Monterey attractions for families, you're in the right place. Whether you're visiting for the...

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The Best Places to Swim in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Santa Clara Counties

As summer approaches, families are on the lookout for the perfect spots to enjoy some watery fun. Whether you’re seeking sandy beaches, serene swimming holes,...

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Summer 2025 Fun at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Summer is the perfect time to soak up the sun, enjoy classic seaside fun, and experience special events at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk....

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Top Photo Spots in Monterey County

Monterey County offers a variety of picturesque locations perfect for capturing memorable Mother’s Day photos. After your brunch celebration, why not head to one of...

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Monterey County’s 4th of July Events

Here are the verified events for Monterey and Santa Cruz County 4th of July events for 2025. July 4 @ 7:30 am-10:30 am. Monterey Firefighter's...

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Monterey County Commission on the Status of Women Survey

The Monterey County Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) wants to hear from you. The commission members are gathering information to better understand what...

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U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta Announces High School Art Contest

Since 1982, the United States House of Representatives has hosted the Congressional Art Competition to celebrate the creativity of high school students across the country....

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2025 Earth Day Events for Monterey County and Santa Cruz County

MEARTH DAY 2025 Saturday, May 10 MEarth’s Hilton Bialek Habitat For more info MEarth Day is a free family-friendly event featuring hands-on activities, delicious food,...

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Five Must-Do April Events for Monterey County Families

A special picnic for magic children and their families, EV's in Salinas, and three events celebrating nature. Here are our five "must-do" events for April....

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10 Spots to Work Remotely on the Monterey Peninsula

Whether you’re a remote employee, visiting digital nomad, or work-from-home parent needed a little extra-quiet time, Monterey has some great choices for your office away...

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Family Day at the Sea Otter Classic

The Sea Otter Classic Foundation (SOCF) is shifting into gear this spring with its Bike Skills School Assembly Program and the return of the Life...

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What to do in Monterey with Kids?

Monterey is a fantastic place to visit with children, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, educational experiences, and fun attractions. Here are the top things to...

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Easter Egg Hunts in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties

It’s time for the annual tradition of hunting for Easter Eggs. Here are a variety of 2025 events scheduled for the Central Coast.

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68th Annual Cutting Day and Horticulture Faire in Monterey

The City of Monterey’s Parks and Recreation Department will host the 68th Annual Cutting Day and Horticulture Fair, Saturday, March 15, from 9:00 a.m. to...

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The Dangers of Measles and the Importance of Vaccination for Monterey County Children

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection with severe health consequences, especially for young children. While it was once considered eradicated in the United States...

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Visiting Monterey? Here are the Top 10 Things to Do with Kids

Monterey, California, is a fantastic destination for families, offering many fun and educational activities for kids of all ages. Here are the top ten attractions to...

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Fun & Free Family-Friendly Events in Monterey County This March

Looking for budget-friendly activities to enjoy with your family this March? Monterey County and the surrounding areas have free events that offer fun, creativity, and...

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Sun, Fun, and Leadership: Why being a Camp Counselor Is Perfect For Teens

As summer approaches, many parents of teens and tweens start thinking about how to keep their kids engaged, active, and productive during the break. While...

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The Western Flyer is Setting Sail From Monterey

Eighty-five years ago, the Western Flyer set sail for the Gulf of California with what the Monterey Peninsula Herald described as “perhaps the strangest crew ever signed aboard a...

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Our Top March Events for Monterey Families

Here are nine fun events your family might enjoy during March 2025 through Monterey County. MARCH 6-9 13TH ANNUAL WATSONVILLE FILM FESTIVAL The Watsonville Film...

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The Importance of Modeling Reading for Your Children 

March is National Reading Month and we know that encouraging children to develop a love for books is one of the most valuable gifts we...

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Monterey Recreation Summer Camps: A Summer of Fun and Learning

PARTNER CONTENT Summer is a time for adventure, exploration, and unforgettable memories, and the City of Monterey’s Parks and Recreation Department offers an array of...

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Sports Summer Camps in Monterey County

Summer is an ideal time for children to explore new interests, develop skills, and make lasting friendships. Athletic and sports summer camps offer a unique...

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Monterey-Area Summer Camps for Active Kids

Choosing the right summer camp for your active child in the Monterey Bay area can offer them opportunities to engage in physical activities, develop new...

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Five Romantic Towns Near Monterey for a Perfect Parents’ Getaway

Monterey County is home to one of the most famously romantic towns in the world—Carmel-by-the-Sea. Its fairytale cottages, breathtaking ocean views, and world-class dining make...

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Congressman Panetta Announces Town Hall

Congressman Jimmy Panetta has announced a town hall for February 10 at 5:30 pm. The telephone event is to inform constituents about the work being...

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Contact Information for Monterey and Santa Cruz County Senators and Representatives

Staying informed is crucial for active civic engagement. Below is a list of key officials representing Monterey and Santa Cruz counties, along with their contact...

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Monterey Bay Parent Family Favorites for 2025 Announced

The votes have been cast and our readers have chosen their favorites for 2025. Congratulations to all of the finalists and especially to this year’s...

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Black History Month Books for Kids

February is Black History Month, a time to honor the rich history, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals in our country. One of the best...

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Monterey and Santa Cruz County Martin Luther King Jr. Celebrations

As we approach Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 20, 2025, the Monterey Bay area offers several family-friendly events to honor Dr. King's enduring...

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Summer Camp Marketing for Monterey County Camps

Do You Offer a Summer Camp?Would you like help reaching parents as they plan for summer 2025? Monterey Bay Parent is here to assist! Our official...

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Mental Health is a Family Affair

Helping our children develop coping skills teaches them to manage stress and anxiety in a healthy and productive way.

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Five Ways To Help Your Child Develop Healthy Oral Habits

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month and whether you’re a new parent or a veteran, getting your child to embrace their inner dental hygienist each day can be a challenge.

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Catholic Education’s Lasting Impact

Six Key Statistics You Need to Know For many families, Catholic schools provide a unique blend of academic rigor, spiritual guidance, and values-based education. In...

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Northern and Central California’s Children’s Museums

Children’s museums are magical spaces where kids can explore, learn, and play through hands-on exhibits and interactive activities. Families in Monterey have access to quite a few exceptional museums offering unique...

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Fun Family Activities to Enjoy Between Christmas and New Year’s in Monterey Bay

The week between Christmas and New Year’s is the perfect time to wind down, reconnect with family, and enjoy the magic of the season. Whether...

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Write to Santa! How to Receive a Letter From Santa

Writing a letter to Santa is one of the most memorable parts of the Christmas fun for children. Here are a few ways your child can take part in the fun!

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Discover the Best Hot Chocolate in Monterey County

Discover the Best Hot Chocolate Spots in Monterey County and Beyond An interesting discussion recently took place in the Monterey Bay Parent Facebook group about...

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Christmas and Hanukkah Events for Monterey and Santa Cruz

If you're looking for events to celebrate the December holidays, click this link to go to the entire list of events tagged "Christmas 2024" or...

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December Events for Families in Salinas

Here are some of the suggested events for your family during December, 2024 in Salinas. To see more events from throughout the area, check our...

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Santa Claus is coming to Monterey and Santa Cruz

In addition to appearances at various events, Santa can be found at numerous locations around Monterey Bay. Most locations require a reservation for photos so be sure to check the website before heading out.

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Monterey & Santa Cruz Crafts Shows Just in Time for Christmas Gifts

If you're looking for handmade gifts for those on your 2024 gift list, here are crafts shows where you can shop locally. 2024 HOLIDAY MARKET...

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Family Favorites 2025

Here are graphics you can use to request your followers and customers to nominate you for our Family Favorites awards. Family Favorites nominating is open...

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Where To See Christmas Lights in Monterey and Santa Cruz

Here are the best places to see Christmas lights in Monterey and Santa Cruz.

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Giving Back in Monterey and Santa Cruz: Where To Donate Food and Toys This Holiday Season

While you are preparing to enjoy the winter holidays with your family and friends, please take a moment to consider a donation to one of...

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Pacific Grove Holiday Happenings

Here's a list of holiday events happening in Pacific Grove, showcasing its charm as "America's Last Hometown." These events are perfect for creating cherished family...

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Unique Christmas Events for Monterey Bay Families

The holiday season is upon us, and there are a ton of festive activities for families to enjoy in Monterey Bay. Our comprehensive calendar is...

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A Merry Day Trip to San Jose: Holiday Events for Monterey Bay Families

The holidays are here, and if you're in Monterey looking for a festive day trip with the kids, San Jose offers an array of Christmas...

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California Towns That Offer Unique and Festive Holiday Events

California offers families an array of holiday festivities that celebrate the season in unique and heartwarming ways. While Monterey County has plenty of holiday spirit,...

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Monterey County Private School Open House Schedule

Here are upcoming open houses for private schools in Monterey County scheduled for November and December 2024, and January 2025: 1. Santa Catalina Lower and...

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Eight Dazzling Holiday Light Displays in California

California lights up in November and December with sparkling displays that celebrate the magic of the season. If you'll be traveling during this holiday seasons,...

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Ongoing Monterey and Santa Cruz Holiday Events for 2024

The holiday season is here, and Monterey and Santa Cruz counties are buzzing with festive events to brighten up November and December. From dazzling light...

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This Month’s Recommended Events for Your Monterey County Family

Our recommended things to do in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties for November. For winter holiday events including scheduled tree lightings, check this article. November...

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‘Tis the Season for Tree Lightings

Kick off the holiday season with the glow of tree lighting celebrations across Monterey and Santa Cruz counties! These annual events bring families, friends, and communities together to celebrate the […]

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Five Reasons You Might Choose a Private School

Monterey County has private schools offering instruction for children from pre-k through twelve grades. If you're investigating private school options for your family, here are...

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Exploring Monterey County’s Private Boarding Schools

Here’s a look at private schools in Monterey County that provide a boarding option, giving families both local and international access to unique learning opportunities....

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Christmas and Hanukkah Special Events for Monterey & Santa Cruz

The holiday season is a busy one in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. Here are a variety of fun family-friendly events for 2024. CITY OF...

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Hallmark Holiday Movies for 2024

Hallmark movie season is here!  This year we are being treated to 41 original movies throughout the holiday season. It all begins October 18 and...

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Monterey Bay Parent Receives Nine Awards at Parenting Media Association Annual Conference

Monterey Bay Parent publisher Andrea Breznay represented the writers, copy editor, designer, and photographer at the Parenting Media Associations annual conference in Chicago where the...

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Salinas Pumpkin Patches

It's time to head out for that annual tradition of a visit to a pumpkin patch. If you're looking for one conveniently located in Salinas,...

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Twenty Inexpensive or Free Things to Do in October

October is packed with a variety of family-friendly activities and events across Monterey and Santa Cruz counties. You don't have to break the bank to...

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Monterey Bay Parent’s October Postcard

In our October issue you'll find a print postcard sponsored by The Patch at 10 River Road. In addition to The Patch at 10 River...

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Visit a San Francisco Museum for Free

If you are planning a trip to San Francisco, it's worth checking out our list of free museum days to see if your visit coincides...

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Newsletter Marketing

We have several options to market your service or businesses with our newsletter products. We send out two weekly newsletters to our list: Sunday with...

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Where to Buy Those Holiday Pies

With the holidays approaching, planning dinners is on the agenda. If you're the one tasked with making or buying dessert, we've rounded up a list...

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Discover the California Adventure Pass: Free Access to State Parks in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties

Looking for a fun, educational, and free way to explore the beauty of California with your family? The California Adventure Pass is your ticket! This pass grants...

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Monterey Bay Parent Announces 2025 Cover Kids

The 2025 Cover Kids contest is over! Here are the adorable kiddos who will appear on covers during 2025. As always every entry could have...

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Monterey Bay Parent Print Issue Postcards

We're excited about a new product we now offer: postcards in our print issue. These postcards can be tailored to meet your needs or you...

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Digital Advertising With Monterey Bay Parent

Each month thousands of readers head to our website to find events, read our digital issues, get information about parenting, and read local news. Digital...

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Free Autumn Explorers Camp in Monterey Open to Grades 4, Just $80 for 3rd and 5th Graders

Students in grades 3-5 are invited to attend Autumn Explorers day cap at Monterey State Historic Park. This unique autumn program will have campers exploring...

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Monterey Bay Parent Sponsored Content

Sometimes the best way to get your message across is to tell a story. If that's the case with your business or organization, we can...

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Monterey Bay Parent Print Advertising

PRINT ADVERTISING: Our monthly print issue is distributed throughout Monterey County and in selected areas of Santa Cruz County. We also distribute the digital issue...

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20 Inexpensive or Free Family Activities in September in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties

September has arrived, and even with the kids back in school, there's still a wide variety of fun family activities and events to enjoy throughout...

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Apple Picking Season is Here!

It’s apple picking season on California’s Central Coast, and we have tips to make the most of it. Plus, we’ll tell you where to pick them!

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Watsonville Apple Picking

Apple picking is a perfect activity for fall fun but hurry, the season ends in later October/early November. Be sure to call ahead to make...

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Best Places to Trick-or-Treat on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel Valley, and Salinas

The cities on the Monterey Peninsula, as well as Carmel Valley, and Salinas have some awesome trick-or-treat opportunities. Here's where you can get all of...

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An Inside Look at Public Education in Monterey County

The Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) invites the public to join an Inside Education Monterey County tour. All participants meet at MCOE’s Board Room...

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Invited to your first quinceañera? We have tips!

If you’ve never been to a quinceañera, you’re in for a treat. Typically, the quinceañera begins with a religious ceremony, usually a mass at a Catholic Church. The quinceañera will enter first, followed by her court if she has one.

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A Few Things To Consider When Choosing A Catholic School Education

Choosing a Catholic school for your children can provide a unique educational experience that goes beyond academics. Here are some aspects to consider:

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Monterey & Santa Cruz County Pumpkin Patches

It’s an October ritual that the entire family loves: heading to a pumpkin patch for that perfect pumpkin and a slew of seasonal family photos. Here are the pumpkin patches in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties.

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Halloween & Fall Events for 2024 in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties

Fall festivals, family fun, and Halloween events for a month filled with good times in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. Check back frequently as we add new events.

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The Best Three Places in Salinas to Have Breakfast with Children

Salinas offers multiple family-friendly dining options. Breakfast is the perfect time to enjoy a meal together as a family since it's usually a more casual...

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Where to Get Halloween Costumes and Decor in Monterey County

Halloween is right around the corner, and if you’re an early bird hoping to get a jump on the crowd when buying your child’s costume, here are a few options in Monterey and Salinas.

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Nine Can’t-Miss August Events in Monterey and Santa Cruz County

Here are nine can’t miss family events for August in Monterey County and Santa Cruz County.

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California’s Maternity and Paternity Leave Regulations

California has several laws related to maternity and paternity leave. It is important to note that these laws have specific eligibility requirements and other conditions that must be met in order to qualify for leave or benefits.

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Chevron Soccer Academy Returns to Salinas 

Chevron, in partnership with Alianza de Futbol and the San Jose Earthquakes will be offering a free clinic and tryout in Salinas. Local youth will...

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Get Noticed With Our Back to School Bash Postcard

Your business or organization will stand out with this unique opportunity! Our August issue will have a 6 x 11" postcard inserted into the center of...

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Monterey County’s Diverse Public Schools

This diversity of Monterey County's population is mirrored in the county's public schools, where a variety of cultures, languages, and backgrounds converge, creating a vibrant...

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Summer Meals When School is Out at MPUSD

This summer, students can enjoy free lunches through Monterey Peninsula Unified School District’s Summer Meal Program, a free service open to all kids ages 18 and...

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The 4th of July in Monterey

The City of Monterey, Old Monterey Business Association, and Monterey Firefighters Community Foundation will host a full day of family fun events for the whole...

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Important Dates for Gonzales Unified School District

Families with children in the Gonzales Unified School District looking for important dates for the 2024-25 school year can find them in our short guide....

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California National Parks For Families

If your family is looking for ideas on what parks to explore this summer or fall, check out this guide on the top things for families in California’s national parks.

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