Free Summer Meals for Kids and Teens in Monterey County

School's out — but the free meals don't have to stop. If your family could use a helping hand with lunches over summer break, you're...

Birthday Celebrations for Each Age

From their very first cake smash to the big send-off before adulthood, every birthday deserves something special.  Here’s an age-by-age guide to celebrating your child...

Summer Birthdays & Half-Birthdays

Ah, the joy and struggle of the summer birthday. Everyone seems to be on vacation or at a family reunion. No classic cupcakes at school....

Rethinking Birthdays: Putting the Focus on Your Child

Birthday parties are traditionally imagined as big, high-energy celebrations. Crowds of kids, lots of noise, structured games, and a packed schedule. For some children, that...

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....

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...

Monterey County’s 4th of July Events

Here are the verified events for Monterey and Santa Cruz County 4th of July events for 2026. MONTEREY COUNTY 4TH OF JULY PANCAKE BREAKFAST |...

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...

Counting the Moments That Matter Most for Fathers

I got the call. The one I’ve been preparing for my whole adult life. I knew all this so-called trivial knowledge would finally become useful,...

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

Always Say YES! Plan the trip, take the chance, try new things

A mom's guide to saying yes — to adventure, to yourself, and to life. Because the best moments don't wait for the "right time." Last...

The Leadership Lesson All Moms Need

A 25-year law enforcement veteran shares the leadership lesson that changed everything: for women and moms, saying "no" is a power move, not a weakness....

Q & A With Creative Monterey Moms

Creative moms have a unique ability to think outside the box when solving problems. These local moms are finding ways to stay creative while balancing...

The Circus Is Always One Peanut Away from Disaster

Grown-ups have all the fun. They can eat anything they want, stay up late, and watch TV all day. The limitless freedom of adulthood, I...

20 Screen-Free Road Trip Ideas

Whether you’re committed to the “raise your kid like it’s the 90s” trend or just minimizing screen time, distractions are still an essential part of...

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...

Two-Hour Monterey Bay Family Adventures

Don’t let the weekday hustle-and-bustle get in the way of some family fun. After the workday ends, head out for a special outing (or create...

Tips for Visiting Museums With Kids

As a former public school teacher and art educator, I learned that students remain engaged when they discover something that resonates with them personally, or...

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...

Helping Neurodivergent Children Transition to Summer Camp

Summer camp is a classic childhood experience, full of new friends, outdoor play, and exciting adventures. For neurodivergent children, however, the thought of a new...

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,...

York School to Present “Hairspray,” Celebrating Community and the Power of Youth Voices

This spring, the Musical Theatre Department at York School will present Hairspray, the Tony Award–winning musical that blends an infectious, pop-infused score with a bold message...

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...

Monterey County Women You Should Know

March is Women’s History Month—an observance that grew from a 1978 Women’s History Week organized in Sonoma County, California, and later gained national recognition through...

Making Summer Programs Work For Every Budget

When the summer finally rolls around, we parents are eager to fill these short months with meaning and memories. We’re up long past our bedtimes...

Camp Safety: What Parents Should Ask (and What Camps Wish Parents Knew)

As families begin registering for March and Spring Break camps across Monterey County, safety is top of mind. From theater intensives to sports camps to...

Camp Lessons Including “Don’t Stand Up in the Canoe”

FOUR . . . FIVE . . . SIX! The counselor seemed pleased with the new troop record as he flicked the last leech off...

Celebrating Pi Day in Monterey: Where Math Meets the Kitchen

Pi Day is an annual celebration of the mathematical constant π and is observed by both pie lovers and math fans on March 14 One...

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 Places to Fly a Kite in Monterey County

Because Sometimes the Simplest Joys Lift Us the Highest Where Wonder Takes Flight There’s something instantly joyful about flying a kite. It’s simple, it’s old-school,...

Wellness Practices for Families: Mindfulness, Routines, and Nature

Wellness practices can help families become more intentional with time and build healthier daily habits. Wellness may look different for every family based on priorities,...

Choosing the Right E-Bike for Your Monterey Bay Family

After my first e-bike ride, I did what many people do when they discover something new and joyful: I started daydreaming. I imagined cruising with...

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...

Medical Gaslighting, Menopause, and the Midlife Wake-Up Call

A 50-something man strolls into a doctor’s office. He says he’s been “a little tired” lately. The doctor smiles and says, “No problem, friend!” and...

Monterey Residents Invited to Apply for Spring 2026 First City Academy

The City of Monterey is now inviting residents ages 16 and older to apply for the Spring 2026 First City Academy, a free civic education program...

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...

E-Bike Riding in Monterey

WHAT IS ALL THE FUSS ABOUT? I’ll admit it: I was nervous—and that surprised me. Nervous isn’t a feeling I usually associate with outdoor activities....

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,...

Commitments Rather Than Resolutions This Year!

Social etiquette quiz: How far into January can you wish others a “Happy New Year”? Some, like Curb Your Enthusiasm’s Larry David, put the greeting’s...

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...

Seaside Grocery Outlet Announces Annual Holiday “Buy One, Get One Half Off” Sale

Holiday savings return to Seaside this weekend as Seaside Grocery Outlet hosts its annual Buy One, Get One Half Off (BoHoHo) Sale on Saturday, December 6, from 8:00 a.m....

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...

Getting Ready for Kindergarten: Monterey Preschool Teachers Offer Advice

While you are waiting for your child to (finally) start kindergarten next fall or in the future, there are plenty of valuable teaching opportunities to...

St. Angela’s Preschool: A Community Where Children Grow in Heart, Mind, & Spirit

THERE’S SOMETHING IMMEDIATELY COMFORTING ABOUT ST. ANGELA’S PRESCHOOL IN PACIFIC GROVE. Maybe it’s the sound of children laughing on the playground, or the warm way...

Raising Helpers: Family Volunteering in Monterey

As we teach kids to be engaged community members, volunteering and donating to others is an essential opportunity. Serving your neighbors is a rewarding and...

The Making of a School Holiday Concert in Monterey

Michael Blackburn, music and performing arts teacher for Bay View’s lower and upper campuses in Monterey takes us behind the scenes as he prepares his...

Unpacking the Holidays

Rediscovering the heart of the holidays by embracing the chaos, nostalgia, and fleeting magic of raising young kids. I emerged from the shed, covered in cobwebs, dust,...

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...

Now Registering: First Tee’s 2025 Fall Camp in Salinas

Full-day golf instruction, STEAM learning, art, outdoor challenges, and team-building for ages 7–17 First Tee – Monterey County is now accepting registrations for its 2025...

Sparkling Nights: Holiday Light Displays on the Monterey Bay

Experience the glow of the season with a tour of festive light displays throughout the Monterey Bay and surrounding areas. The arrival of the holiday...

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...

First Generation College Students in Monterey County

Three local women share their stories of perseverance, pride, and possibility The First to Go: A New Path Forward Monterey County is home to 24 school...

Innovative Public School Programs in Monterey County

How local districts are inspiring creativity, confidence, and community across the Central Coast Education Innovation Across 24 Districts The Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) oversees 24...

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...

Family Friendly Brewers and Wineries in Monterey County

We live in a truly special place—the kind of destination where postcard-perfect views, world-famous microclimates, and friendly small-town vibes stretch from the Santa Cruz Beach...

The Girl Scouts Trek Wild Program Empowers Girls Through Adventure

Middle & high school girls discover independence, resilience, and leadership on the trail There’s something truly magical about watching girls grow stronger with every step...

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...

Family-Friendly Trick-or-Treat Alternatives Across Monterey Bay

Halloween is just around the corner, and for some families, traditional neighborhood trick-or-treating at night isn’t the best fit. Whether you’re looking for a safer,...

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...

Meet the Farmers: The Pumpkin Patches of Monterey Bay

One of the many perks of living in Monterey County are the extensive agricultural resources available throughout the area. These include farm-to-table restaurants, local farmers’...