Black History Sites to Explore Across California
Meaningful museums, landmarks, and cultural spaces—organized by region and within driving distance of Monterey. Black history is an essential part of California’s story, from early...
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Articles by Monterey Bay Staff
2026 Monterey Bay Parent Family Favorites Directory
CAMPS, LESSONS & ACTIVITIES AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM WINNER: Mathnasium of Monterey680 Del Monte Center, Monterey, California 93940 | (831) 324-4785EMAIL | WEBSITEMathnasium of Monterey helps K–12...
Read ArticleBest February Events for Your Monterey Bay Family
February is full of opportunities to get out and explore the Monterey Bay—whether your family loves hands-on science, community festivals, creative workshops, or big events...
Read ArticleMaking Prom Possible for Monterey County Students
When a student misses prom because of cost, it can feel like more than just “one night.” For Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) trustee...
Read ArticleFour Ways Monterey Bay Charter School Stands Out!
At Monterey Bay Charter School, learning is designed to move beyond the classroom. Serving students from TK through eighth grade, the school offers a public...
Read ArticleHave You Tried These Monterey County Kid-Friendly Restaurants?
Healthy, delicious, and welcoming for the whole family—these local spots make it easy to please picky eaters and parents alike. From brunch specialties to plant-forward...
Read ArticleA Look Back at a Year of Growth & Impact at Monterey Bay Parent
As we look ahead to a new year, we want to take a moment to reflect on what we accomplished together and to thank the...
Read ArticleCounty of Monterey Health Department Urges Residents to Protect Against Winter Respiratory Viruses
As winter respiratory viruses continue to circulate, the County of Monterey Health Department is encouraging residents to take preventive steps to protect themselves, their families,...
Read ArticleMonterey Bay Parent Family Favorites 2026 Is Now Open — Vote Daily January 1–12
It’s time to celebrate the places, programs, and organizations that make life in Monterey Bay extra special for families. Monterey Bay Parent’s Family Favorites 2026...
Read ArticleFamily-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events Around Monterey County (and Nearby)
Celebrate safely and joyfully with kids this New Year’s Eve — from creative crafts and countdowns to downtown festivities and early-day “noon” celebrations. Noon Year’s...
Read ArticleWhy Families Choose a Catholic School Education
National Catholic Schools Week (CSW) 2026 will be celebrated from Sunday, January 25 to Saturday, January 31. Catholic schools have long been known for strong...
Read ArticleJanuary 2026 Best Library Events for Monterey and Salinas
January is a great time to rediscover our local libraries. County libraries across Monterey County are kicking off 2026 with a full calendar of engaging,...
Read ArticleA Guide to First Day Hikes in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties
As many families look for meaningful ways to begin a fresh calendar year, First Day Hikes provide the perfect chance to combine nature, wellness, and community tradition....
Read ArticleSalinas and South County Mayors Unite for Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety
A recent increase in pedestrian and bicyclist collisions across Salinas and South Monterey County has prompted local mayors to unite around a shared message: slow...
Read ArticleThe Salvation Army Distributes 1,500 Holiday Hams Across Monterey County
The Salvation Army Monterey Peninsula Corps is helping families across Monterey County celebrate the holidays by distributing 1,500 hams to local families and community service...
Read ArticleStevenson Senior Chanel Estrada Earns Full-Ride QuestBridge Scholarship to Columbia University
Stevenson School senior Chanel Estrada has been awarded a full-ride scholarship to Columbia University through the highly competitive QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship, marking another...
Read ArticleSix Flags Discovery Kingdom and California’s Great America Announce 2026 Schedules and Expanded Events
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and California’s Great America have unveiled their 2026 operating calendars, featuring expanded seasonal events, live entertainment, immersive décor, and new limited-time...
Read ArticleCounty of Monterey Expands Access to Free Naloxone
The County of Monterey Health Department is significantly expanding its overdose-prevention efforts with the launch of four new Narcan vending machines on December 8. This...
Read ArticleMonterey Public Library Hosts Frog and Toad Storytime, Crafts, and Meet & Greets
Families are invited to celebrate Arnold Lobel’s beloved Frog and Toad stories with a weekend of special events at the Monterey Public Library. The library will offer...
Read ArticleMPUSD Receives Statewide Golden Bell Award
The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District has been selected as a recipient of the California School Boards Association’s prestigious Golden Bell Award for its innovative...
Read ArticleBrunches With Santa (and the Grinch!) in Monterey and Santa Cruz
From Monterey to Santa Cruz, here are 2025 breakfasts and brunches featuring Santa, the Grinch, and other holiday characters. Events are listed by county and...
Read ArticleHanukkah For Those Who Need to Be Close To Home
This season, I will call myself a “Quarantine Expert” and share six ideas on making your Hanukkah special.
Read ArticleUnique 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...
Read Article300 Monterey Peninsula Families to Receive Thanksgiving Turkeys and Hams
More than 8,000 additional residents will be served free Thanksgiving meals across Monterey County Thanksgiving will be brighter for hundreds of local families thanks to...
Read ArticleWould you like to collaborate with us?
Monterey Bay Parent reaches more local families than any other regional parenting platform. With a combined social media audience of more than 24,000 followers across Instagram and...
Read ArticleCity of Monterey Donates $10,000 to Food Bank for Monterey County
The City of Monterey has announced a $10,000 donation to the Food Bank for Monterey County, providing timely support as local families head into the...
Read ArticleChristmas on the Wharf Returns to Monterey December 5–21, 2025
Free Family Fun, Santa Visits, New Displays, and Live Entertainment at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf The Fisherman’s Wharf Association will once again host Christmas on the...
Read ArticleMonterey Peninsula Unified School District Shows Significant Academic Progress
State results confirm districtwide progress and measurable improvements for historically underserved students State-released 2024-2025 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) results show Monterey...
Read ArticleMonterey & Santa Cruz Crafts Shows For Holiday Gifts
If you're looking for handmade gifts for those on your 2025 Christmas or Hanukkah gift list, here are crafts shows where you can shop locally....
Read ArticleSanta 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.
Read ArticleMonterey Bay Parent Celebrates National Recognition at Parenting Media Association Awards
Monterey Bay Parent and its affiliated publication earned multiple honors at the Parenting Media Association (PMA) 2025 annual conference in Chicago. The three-day conference was attended by...
Read ArticleChildren’s Author Emberli Pridham Introduces Young Readers To The Inspiring Story Of Princess Kate With “A Real-Life Fairy Tale: Princess Kate”
For admirers in her home country and around the world, Princess Kate is a woman who epitomizes grace, style, kindness, family values and generosity. From...
Read ArticleA Remarkable Time to be at Stevenson School
PARTNER CONTENT There’s a moment every parent hopes to witness: when their child comes home excited to explain not what they learned but how they...
Read ArticleNovember Don’t-Miss Events Around Monterey
November brings cool air, cozy sweaters, and plenty of opportunities to explore the Monterey Bay area with your family. From orchids to chili cook-offs and...
Read ArticleWhere to Get Food Assistance in Monterey County
As the government shutdown continues and families prepare for the holidays, many in our community may need a little extra help putting meals on the...
Read ArticleMonterey and Santa Cruz Winter Holiday Events
The 2025 holiday season is packed with community celebrations across the Monterey Bay area. From long-standing tree lightings and neighborhood parades to new winter festivals and...
Read ArticleLa Mesa School in Monterey Earns Spot on 2025 California Honor Roll
La Mesa School in the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) has been recognized as one of California’s top-performing schools, earning a place on the 2025...
Read ArticlePumpkin Plunge Events in Monterey and Santa Cruz
When most people think of pumpkin picking, they imagine a trip to a farm or patch—but in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties, families can dive...
Read ArticleCelebrating 175 Years of California at Colton Hall
Monterey Public Library & Museums Host Events to Honor State History This fall marks 175 years since California became a state, and Colton Hall—the birthplace...
Read ArticleCapturing Your Family’s Story with Brenden Boggs Photography
SPONSORED CONTENT | When it comes to preserving life’s most important milestones, Monterey Bay families turn to Brenden Boggs Photography. With over a decade of...
Read ArticleMaegen Pierce is Helping Monterey County Children With Neurodivergences Thrive
Connection over compliance signals a clear shift from traditional “do as I say” approaches toward an emphasis on safety, empathy, and relationships. A FRESH TAKE...
Read ArticleMonterey Bay Military Families: Discover the Military Families Outdoors Program
Military life often means moving from place to place, but that doesn’t have to keep families from finding adventure and connection in the great outdoors....
Read ArticleChild Passenger Safety Week in Monterey County
September 21–27 is Child Passenger Safety Week, and the Monterey County Health Department’s Public Health Bureau is teaming up with law enforcement and community organizations to...
Read ArticleUpdates for Parents on Flu and Covid Season
As respiratory illness season begins, families are facing shifting immunization guidance and a flood of information. To help provide clarity, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases...
Read ArticleBest Bets for October Family Events in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties (Non-Halloween)
Looking for fun things to do this October that aren’t Halloween or pumpkin-related? Families in Monterey County and Santa Cruz County have plenty of choices! From hands-on...
Read ArticleA Parent’s Guide to Disability Benefits and Support Programs in Monterey County
When a child is first diagnosed with a disability, it can feel overwhelming. Therapies, medical appointments, and related costs can add up quickly. Many families...
Read ArticleHalloween & Fall Events for 2025 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.
Read ArticleCelebrate Nanao Day: 30 Years of Friendship Between Monterey & Nanao
The City of Monterey invites the community to celebrate a very special milestone—30 years of friendship with our sister city, Nanao, Japan. Join us for Nanao...
Read ArticleBest Monterey County Library Events for the Week
Looking for fun, creative, and educational activities for your family this week? Local libraries across Monterey County are hosting a variety of engaging programs for...
Read ArticleMonterey & 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.
Read ArticleMonterey Bay Aquarium: Admission & Visit Essentials
Planning a trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium? Here's everything you need to know about admission to ensure a smooth, memorable experience: Admission Prices (as...
Read ArticleFree & Family-Friendly Fall Concerts in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties
Whether your family is into dancing on the beach, marching bands, or orchestra performances, there’s something happening nearly every weekend from September through October. We’ve gathered...
Read ArticleFamily-Friendly Events in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties – September 2025
Looking for fun things to do with kids in Monterey County and Santa Cruz this September? From festivals and food events to storytimes and hands-on...
Read ArticleMonterey Peninsula Unified School District 2025–2026 Back-to-School Nights
It’s that time of year again—Back-to-School Nights are here across MPUSD! These evenings are more than just a chance to meet teachers and tour classrooms....
Read Article25th Annual Monterey Turkish Arts & Culture Festival
August 23–24, 2025 | Custom House Plaza, MontereyFree Admission for All Ages The Monterey Turkish Arts & Culture Festival is back for its 25th year,...
Read Article12 Tips to Keep Your Monterey Child Excited About Reading
Encouraging kids to read is one of the most important things parents can do, and here in Monterey County, families have incredible resources to support a...
Read ArticleMonterey County Named First Certified Blue Zones Community in California
Monterey County has made history as the first county in California to earn a Certified Blue Zones Community® designation, following a seven-year regional initiative aimed...
Read ArticleAugust 2025 Events at Monterey County Free Libraries
Looking for free, family-friendly activities this August? Monterey County Free Libraries are offering a fun variety of programs that encourage learning, creativity, and community connection....
Read ArticleThe Marinelli Bros Circus Comes to Salinas with “A New Experience” — August 7–18
Looking for unforgettable summer fun for the whole family? The Marinelli Bros Circus is rolling into Salinas with an all-new production, A New Experience, at Northridge Mall, August 7–18, 2025! This isn’t...
Read ArticleBack-to-School Health Reminders for Monterey Kids
Heading back to school means more than new backpacks and fresh notebooks—it’s also the perfect time for parents to ensure their child’s health is in...
Read ArticleSummer and Fall California National Park Getaways
Ready for an August or September getaway that’s family-friendly, can be done inexpensively, and will be fun for all? National Parks to the rescue! Here...
Read ArticleFamily Fun in August: Top Events for Monterey and Santa Cruz County Families
August is a fantastic time to get out and explore the many family-friendly events happening around the Monterey Bay area. From health fairs and classic...
Read ArticleBackpack Giveaways for Monterey County Students
As the new school year approaches, several Monterey County organizations are teaming up to ensure students have the supplies they need. From elementary through college,...
Read ArticleFamily Events at The Farm in Salinas
UPDATED FOR JULY AND AUGUST, 2025 Located just off Highway 68 at the Spreckels Boulevard exit, The Farm in Salinas continues its hands-on, family-friendly lineup...
Read ArticleWhere to Watch Football in Monterey County
Are you looking for a bar or restaurant in Monterey, Carmel, Carmel Valley, Pacific Grove, Marina, or Salinas to watch your favorite football team play...
Read ArticleWriters By The Monterey Bay
Monterey County has long drawn writers seeking inspiration from its dramatic coastline, rich history, and distinctive character. From celebrated poets and Pulitzer Prize winners to...
Read ArticleMonterey Bay Area National Night Out Events
National Night Out is a nationwide community-building campaign held on the first Tuesday in August, designed to strengthen the partnerships between neighbors and their local...
Read ArticleRosemary & Thyme Launches First Garden Tea Series at Historic Casa Serrano
Rosemary & Thyme High Teas invites you to an afternoon in the garden of the Monterey History and Art Association’s historic Casa Serrano on Sunday, August...
Read ArticleMonterey Peninsula Unified School District Secures $500,000 Grant to Boost Student Civic Engagement
Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) has been awarded a $500,000 California Serves Grant by the California Department of Education. Over the next two years...
Read ArticleMonterey and Santa Cruz County Beach Clean Up Events
Here’s a roundup of upcoming beach-focused volunteer events in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. Whether you’re into data-driven litter surveys, invasive-plant removal or just getting...
Read ArticleCommunity Youth Photography Program for Monterey County Students
Unleashing Creativity Through Film & Digital Photography This fall and spring, The Weston Collective will present the Wednesday Community Youth Photography Program, tailored for 6th–12th...
Read ArticleBecome a Vendor at the 2025 Back to School Bash
Looking to connect with hundreds of local families in a single day? Don’t miss your chance to be part of Monterey Bay Parent’s Back to School...
Read ArticleMonterey Residents Invited to Join Inaugural First City Academy
Applications Now Open for Civic Engagement Program Starting August 28 The City of Monterey is launching its first-ever First City Academy, a new civic engagement program...
Read ArticleCelebrate the Fourth of July in Monterey with a Full Day of Family Fun
Monterey will come alive with patriotic spirit on Friday, July 4, 2025, as the City of Monterey, Old Monterey Business Association, and Monterey Firefighters Community...
Read ArticleMonterey 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...
Read ArticleMonterey’s First-Ever Abalone Festival Celebrates Culture, History, and Conservation
July 26–27 at Monterey JACL Hall Monterey’s deep connection to abalone—rooted in Indigenous tradition, enriched by immigrant contributions, and central to local culinary lore—will be...
Read ArticleWhat To Do This Weekend in Monterey County and Santa Cruz County
Updated for June 27–29, 2025 Looking for family-friendly events this weekend? From music and parades to potlucks and playgroups, there’s something happening for everyone in...
Read ArticleTri-County Leaders Hold Press Conference in Support of Immigrant Communities
In a show of regional unity, elected officials, labor unions, health professionals, business leaders, educators, and community organizations from Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito...
Read ArticleFlower Songs & Flor y Canto Brings Indigenous Music and Culture to Salinas’ Boronda Adobe
On Saturday, June 28, the Monterey County Historical Society invites the community to step into a vibrant celebration of indigenous heritage at the Boronda Adobe...
Read ArticleFree Summer Meals for Kids and Teens in Monterey Peninsula Unified School District
This summer, the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) is once again offering its 2025 Summer Meal Program, ensuring that children and teens across the region...
Read ArticleCalifornia Rodeo Salinas 2025: A Family-Friendly Celebration
The California Rodeo Salinas, one of the top 15 regular season rodeos in the United States, returns July 17–20, 2025, at the Salinas Sports Complex....
Read ArticleBest June Library Events for Monterey and Santa Cruz County Families
June is packed with fun and educational library programs across the Monterey Bay area. From outdoor art sessions to science shows and magical performances, these...
Read ArticleWhere to Get Great BBQ in Monterey and Santa Cruz
If you’re craving slow-smoked meats, tangy sauces, and hearty sides, you’re in luck—Monterey and Santa Cruz counties offer a wide variety of BBQ joints, from...
Read ArticleMonterey County Summer Library Reading Programs
Summer offers kids a much-needed break from the school routine, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to spark a love of reading. With no homework...
Read ArticleExplore 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...
Read ArticleFree 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...
Read ArticleFavorite 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...
Read ArticleMonterey 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...
Read ArticleSpecial 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...
Read ArticlePlan 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...
Read ArticleBest 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...
Read ArticleTop 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...
Read ArticleThe 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,...
Read ArticleSummer 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....
Read ArticleTop 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...
Read ArticleMonterey 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...
Read ArticleU.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....
Read Article2025 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,...
Read ArticleFive 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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