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 Wharf, a local tradition now in its ninth year. This free, family-friendly celebration runs over three weekends—December 5–21, 2025—with festive décor on display throughout the entire month. The event coincides with Old Fisherman’s Wharf’s 180th anniversary, adding another reason for the community to visit.

This year’s celebration introduces a new holiday installation featuring an old-fashioned wooden under-the-sea scene, the Wharf’s 23-foot Christmas tree, a canopy of lights, a Santa House, and other whimsical seasonal displays.

Visitors are invited to stroll the Wharf, enjoy views of the bay’s wildlife, dine at local restaurants, and take part in a full schedule of entertainment and family activities.

“Christmas on the Wharf is a wonderful tradition that brings families together to create lasting memories,” said Wendy Brickman, President of the Fisherman’s Wharf Association.

Event Highlights

Live Entertainment

Weekend performances will include choirs, dancers, singers, and bands. Scheduled performers include:

The Dance Center’s Musical Performance Troupe
December 6, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Pacific Pop n’ Jazz
December 7, 1:30–2:30 p.m.
Saxophonia
December 7, 2:30–3:30 p.m.
Carmel Presbyterian Church Choir
December (exact date TBA), 2:00 p.m.
Peninsula Harmony Company (vintage costumes)
December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 from 6:00–7:00 p.m.

Visitors may bring folding chairs. Leashed dogs are welcome.

The entertainment schedule will be updated at MontereyWharf.com. Groups interested in performing may email info@montereywharf.com.

Santa Visits

Santa will greet families in his festive house near the Crab House Restaurant.

Santa Visit Hours

Fridays: December 5, 12, 19 | 5:00–8:00 p.m.
Saturdays: December 6, 13, 20 | 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Sundays: December 7, 14, 21 | 1:00–6:00 p.m.

Families may take their own photos. A Salvation Army Toy Drop will be located at Santa’s House, and donations may also be made at the red kettle at the entrance to the Wharf.

Special Community Events

Holiday Safety Afternoon
Saturday, December 6 | 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Local police and fire personnel will share safety information, giveaways, and a fire engine display.

Brighten the Harbor Lighted Boat Parade
Sunday, December 7 | 5:15–7:00 p.m.
Lighted boats will pass the Wharf around 5:30 p.m. and again on return. Many boats remain lit throughout the season.

Christmas in the Adobes
The Wharf will be a featured stop during this Monterey tradition on December 12–13, 5:00–9:00 p.m.

Ice Skating by the Bay
Open November 21–January 4 in Custom House Plaza.

Holiday Treats & Shopping

Wharf merchants will offer seasonal drinks and snacks, including hot cocoa and cookies from Dock Side Fish Market and Kafe Toribashi. Old Fisherman’s Grotto will sell cocoa and cookies to benefit The Salvation Army.

Candy shops—Carousel Candies, Candy World, and Wharf Chocolate Factory—will feature holiday sweets all month.

Visitors will also find unique gift items, whale watching excursions, sailing, fishing trips, glass-bottom boat rides, and both indoor and outdoor dining.