Monterey Bay Staff, Author at Monterey Bay Parent

Articles by Monterey Bay Staff

What To Do This Weekend in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties

Back-to-school season is here, and this weekend sends summer off in style. Friday brings free community fun in Castroville, an extraordinary opening night of handcrafted folk art sculptures in Oldtown Salinas, and the Night Market 831 in Sand City. Saturday, the Back to School Expo fills Del Monte Center with free activities, school resources, and goody bags for families. Sunday, the beloved San Juan Day street festival takes over historic downtown San Juan Bautista all day long. Here’s what we’re pointing families toward this week.

What Monterey County Parents Need to Know About School Bus Rules

School transportation varies widely throughout Monterey County. Some districts operate extensive bus systems, while others offer more limited service based on grade level, attendance area, available capacity, or specialized programs. Every family should check with their district directly to confirm eligibility, registration requirements, and bus stop locations.

Thrifty Business: Your Guide to Resale Shopping for Monterey Families

Back-to-school season always seems to sneak up faster than we're ready for, and with new backpacks, shoes, and a fresh round of "I've outgrown everything"...

Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf Turns 181 — Free Birthday Bash for the Whole Family

Mark your calendars, Monterey County families — Old Fisherman’s Wharf is turning 181, and the whole community is invited to celebrate for free. The Fisherman’s Wharf Association is throwing its annual Wharf Birthday Party on Sunday, October 11, complete with live music, historic boats, birthday cake, and a few brand-new activities for kids this year.

Free Diapers for Every Newborn Born at Natividad Medical Center

Good news for Monterey County families expecting a new baby: Natividad Medical Center in Salinas is one of the hospitals participating in Golden State Start, California’s new statewide program that gives every newborn 400 free diapers — regardless of family income.

Monterey Bay Parent Inclusive Directory Listings

Please fill out the form below to have your information included in our upcoming Directory of Special Needs Services. Free listings may include name, either...

Family-Friendly Car Week: Free Ways to See the Classics in 2026

Every August, the Monterey Peninsula transforms into the center of the automotive universe. Monterey Car Week 2026 runs August 7–16, ten days packed with concours shows,...

August Family Fun: Your Guide to Events in Monterey County

Summer's home stretch is here, and August is packed with reasons to get the family out the door — from free library storytimes to a...

Monterey Bay Area National Night Out Events 2026

National Night Out returns on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, the nationwide community-building campaign that brings neighbors, police officers, and firefighters together for an evening of...

A New Tool to Protect Your Family’s Privacy: California’s DROP Deadline Is Here

DROP stands for the Delete Request and Opt-Out Platform, a free tool built by the California Privacy Protection Agency. It lets any California resident submit a single request that reaches every data broker registered in the state — more than 500 of them — asking them to delete personal information and stop selling or sharing it.

Free Youth Photography Program Returns to Seaside This Fall — Registration Opens Soon

If your 5th through 8th grader has an eye for a good photo (or just loves messing around with a camera), The Weston Collective has an opportunity worth putting on your calendar. The nonprofit’s Community Youth Photography Program is back for the 2026/2027 school year, and it’s completely free for Monterey County families.

Essay Contest Celebrates 181 Years of Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Do you have a favorite family memory from Old Fisherman’s Wharf? Here’s a fun way for the whole family to dig into local history together — and maybe win a little something for it.

Your Guide to Monterey County Library Storytimes

Nothing beats a good story — especially when it comes with songs, rhymes, and a room full of other little ones to wiggle along with. Monterey County is lucky to have five different library systems, each running its own storytime programs for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Not a “Parenting” Business? Here’s Why You Should Still Book a Booth at Our Back to School Expo

Mark your calendars: the Monterey Bay Parent Back to School Expo returns Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Del Monte Center in Monterey — and booth registration is open now.

Free California State Parks Pass Available Now Through July 6 — Here’s How to Get It

JULY 6 IS THE LAST DAY! Monterey County families have a great opportunity this summer: a free pass to more than 30 state historic parks,...

Steinbeck and the Great American Read

Celebrating America’s 250th? Bookshop Santa Cruz curated two classic reading lists — here are the Steinbeck, Salinas, and California-rooted picks Monterey County families should know.

Monterey County’s 4th of July Events

Pancake breakfast, a parade, and other special celebrations are on the agenda for Monterey County 4th of July, 2026.

Celebrate the 4th with Monterey Firefighters at the Annual Pancake Breakfast

It’s July 4th week, and that means it’s time for one of Monterey’s favorite holiday traditions: the 10th Annual Old Fashioned Pancake Breakfast, hosted by MY Museum and your local Monterey firefighters.

Act Fast — Premium Booths for Back to School Expo Are Almost Gone!

Our annual Back to School Expo returns Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Del Monte Center in Monterey — and spots are filling up...

California’s History & Culture: 21 Must-Do Experiences

From Alcatraz to the Carmel Mission, explore 21 incredible history and culture experiences across California — including several right here in Monterey County.

California’s Military Heritage: 25 Must-Do Experiences

From Fort Point beneath the Golden Gate to the USS Midway and Monterey’s own Lower Presidio, explore 25 powerful California military heritage sites and experiences.

California Food & Drink: 21 Must-Try Experiences

From Dungeness crab at Fisherman’s Wharf to artichokes in Castroville and wine in the Santa Lucia Highlands, discover 21 essential California food and drink experiences.

California Family & Kids: 33 Must-Do Experiences

From Disneyland to Dennis the Menace Park and MY Museum in downtown Monterey, discover 33 incredible California experiences perfect for families and kids.

California Sports & Adventure: 21 Must-Do Experiences

From skiing Lake Tahoe and surfing Santa Cruz to the IndyCar finale at Laguna Seca and biking the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, discover 21 must-do California sports adventures.

California Scenic Drives & Road Trips: 16 Must-Do Routes

From Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur to the 17-Mile Drive and Carmel Valley Road, discover 16 incredible California scenic drives and road trips for families.

California City Experiences: 22 Must-Do Urban Adventures

From Cannery Row and Carmel-by-the-Sea to San Francisco’s Ferry Building and LA’s Original Farmers Market, discover 22 must-do California city experiences for families.

California Wildlife & Nature: 13 Must-Do Experiences

From monarch butterflies in Pacific Grove and sea otters in Monterey Bay to gray whale migrations and sandhill cranes, discover 13 incredible California wildlife experiences.

Uniquely California: 22 One-of-a-Kind Experiences

From walking the Path of History in Monterey and climbing Point Pinos Lighthouse to grunion runs, Glass Beach, and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway — 22 bucket-list California experiences.

California’s Coast & Beaches: 16 Must-Do Experiences

From monarch butterfly groves to bioluminescent waves, California’s 800-mile coastline is endlessly surprising. Here are 16 coastal experiences your family should put on the bucket list — including several right here in Monterey County.

California’s National Parks & Natural Wonders: 18 Must-Do Experiences

From El Capitan to Mono Lake’s tufa towers, California’s national parks and natural wonders offer some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth — and military families get in free. Here are 18 experiences worth putting on your bucket list.

Free Books for Every Baby and Toddler in Monterey County — Here’s How to Sign Up

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is coming to Monterey County this summer, and your child could receive a free book by mail every single month.

Slow Summer: Drawing Games in Pacific Grove

This summer, Monterey Bay Parent is partnering with local dad Beau to bring you a weekly video series of simple, screen-free activities designed to help families slow down and savor the season. Beau, who is dad to Archie and Esme, is passionate about unplugging and being present, and his ideas are the kind that require nothing more than a little time, some imagination, and the people you love most.

Salinas Valley Health Collects Diapers for Families in Need

For the fifth year in a row, Salinas Valley Health is showing that caring for families doesn't stop at the hospital door. Employees and community...

Free Summer Meals for Kids and Teens in Monterey County

If your family could use a helping hand with lunches over summer break, you’re not alone. Several programs across Monterey County are serving free meals to kids and teens this summer through federal and local initiatives. No income verification, no registration required at most sites — just show up.

Birthday Celebrations for Each Age

Here’s an age-by-age guide to celebrating birthdays with your child — with plenty of local Monterey County flavor mixed in.

Keep Them Reading This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to curl up with a good book — and there’s no shortage of ways to make it fun and rewarding. Local libraries across the area are kicking off their summer reading programs, and national programs sweeten the deal with free gifts.

Monterey County Free Libraries Summer Programs

Monterey County Free Libraries is once again presenting their popular Summer Reading Club. The fun runs from June 1 through July 31, complete with prizes and performances.

Moonflower Dentistry: A Home for the Entire Family

PARTNER CONTENT There’s a flower that blooms only at night. It doesn’t wait for ideal conditions—it opens quietly in the dark, offering something beautiful, precisely...

Harmony Garden: A New Musical Sculpture Space Coming to Carmel

A local leadership program is creating an outdoor installation where families can make music, explore art, and connect with Carmel's creative spirit. A new outdoor...

Pride Flag Raising Ceremony at Monterey City Hall

The Monterey Peninsula community is invited to celebrate Pride Month at a flag raising ceremony on Friday, May 29, at 4:00 p.m. at Monterey City Hall. The...

Three Peninsula Libraries Now Share Collections — Making It Easier for Families to Access More Books

Great news for library-loving families: Carmel Public Library has joined a resource-sharing partnership with the Monterey and Pacific Grove Public Libraries, meaning your library card...

Spring Into Parks Food Truck and Vendor Application

May Events for Your Monterey Bay Family

Spring is in full swing across Monterey County, and May is packed with festivals, hands-on workshops, and family-friendly fun from Salinas to Pacific Grove. Here...

City of Monterey Town Halls: budget measures & flood protection

The City of Monterey is hosting three community town halls to share information about two upcoming ballot measures and answer residents' questions. Each session runs...

Make the Summer Unforgettable at Stevenson Summer Camps

Each summer Stevenson School opens its campuses in Carmel and Pebble Beach to all students, offering programs that blend adventure, creativity, academics and athletics for...

More Monterey-Area Camp Info

Get the kids ready for a summer filled with fun by choosing camps that are the right fit for your family. Whether your child dreams...

Spring Into Parks Celebration

During April and May, families across Monterey will be visiting the City of Monterey parks as part of our "Spring Into Parks" promotion. They'll be...

Spring Into Parks Community Celebration

Join us for the Spring Into Parks Community Celebration on Sunday, May 17, from 11 AM–3 PM at the lawn of Colton Hall in downtown Monterey. This free,...

City of Monterey Parks

Explore the parks of Monterey during our Spring Into Parks promotion. The passport includes 18 parks located throughout the city—each offering something a little different,...

Win a Free Booth at the Summer Fun & Camp Expo

Monterey Bay Parent is excited to offer one free regular booth at our upcoming Summer Fun & Camp Expo—a fantastic opportunity for a small business...

Seaside Middle School Earns 2026 California Purple Star Designation

MPUSD Now Home to Four Purple Star Schools Seaside Middle School has been named a 2026 California Purple Star School by the California Department of...

Best Family Events in March Around Monterey County

March is packed with opportunities to get outside, explore, learn something new, and connect as a family. From hands-on science and community celebrations to nature...

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.

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...

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...

Best 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...

Making 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...

Four 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...

Have 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...

A 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...

County 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,...

Monterey 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...

Family-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...

Why 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...

January 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,...

A 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....

Salinas 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...

The 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...

Stevenson 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...

Six 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...

County 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...

Monterey 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...

MPUSD 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...

Brunches 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...

Hanukkah 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.

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...

300 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...

Would 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...

City 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...

Christmas 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...

Monterey 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...

Monterey & 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....

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.

Monterey 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...

Children’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...

A 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...

November 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...

Where 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...

Monterey 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...

La 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...

Pumpkin 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...

Celebrating 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...

Capturing 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...

Maegen 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...

Monterey 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....

Child 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...

Updates 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...

Best 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...

A 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...

Every Thursday: the best family-friendly events around Monterey Bay, hand-picked for the upcoming weekend.

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