Two glass studios are uniting to provide a wide selection of glass art objects for your enjoyment and purchase. Chris Johnson and Studio Zayante are showing their works for this holiday season and you get to wander about and be amazed by their work. http://chrisjohnsonglass.com

Come to downtown Salinas and see a fabulous parade kicking off the holiday season. Thousands of fans line the street and watch every imaginable group parade down the street. School groups, high school bands and bikers share the Christmas spirit. Dress for the weather and bring a chair.

These magicians have been seen around the world and this show has also been amazing tens of thousands at their various performances. Come out and be prepared to be astonished. http://goldenstatetheater.com

On the first Tuesday of each month the University of California Santa Cruz opens their arboretum to the public for free. In addition, the will have several docents and naturalists on hand to handle your interesting questions. [email protected]

12 Musicians featuring the vocalist China Forbes make up one powerhouse band. Their music spans a wide range of styles and eras. Very likely you will find something to your liking. So get in the holiday spirit with a big Pink Martini!. http://goldenstatetheater.com

Getting into the holiday season is easy in Pacific Grove. They host this parade featuring lots of local color and organizations. Come by and see how "The Last Hometown" celebrates the season. [email protected]

Monterey kicks of the season with its tree lighting at the historic Colton Hall site. Always a lot of fun with singing and festivity. http://oldmonterey.org

Come on over to the Museum of Art. It's across the street from Colton Hall. You can meet the artists and the curators from the museum. Ask how decisions are made, admire their work, and get some culture vulture points.  http://montereyart.org

In the tradition of bringing folks to the center of town, Pacific Grove is rolling out the carpet for everyone. Come out and see the artists, musicians and interesting folks that make up America's Last Hometown. Info at 831-655-9775

Like the name says, it is every First Friday. What changes is the nature of the activities and their focus. You get to come and see what is going on in the music and art scene in the area. All along Lighthouse and the adjacent streets. pacific Grove is filled with charming shops and businesses. […]

The women's vocal group is bringing their unusual style and influences to the area once again and putting on a show unlike anything you've seen before. (Unless you already have enjoyed their music.) The Eastern European influences in their music become obvious quickly. This is a concert one should not miss. http://kitka.org

Author Todd Cook will be talking about the colorful part of the area's history and encouraging purchase of his book. There will be some period artifacts available for viewing also.  This is a great opportunity for those pirate fans in the family. http://monterey.org/library

If you enjoy "Whose Line is it Anyway" Then come over to the Dali Expo and participate, maybe, in the performance of improv comedy at their venue. The group's years of local experience will help you have a great time here in Monterey County. [email protected]

This is one of the premier and long lasting choirs in the area. You can be sure that they will move you musically. Their holiday concert is sure to be inspiring and beautiful. In addition, it is in the Carmel Mission's basilica, noted for the quality of its acoustics.

Local Singers, actors and musicians get together to help put you in a holiday spirit. They will play Irish tunes, sing songs, and tell stories and read poetry to create a sentimental, generous feeling in their audience. Taelen Thomas, Amy Krupski, and Shannon Warto bring their talents to enhance your experience. http://uucmp.org  

The unique and interesting inns of Carmel are hosting their annual tour. It's self-guidedbut there will be a shuttle to take you from one to the next. Or you can wander about on foot. Driving is probably tricky, what with the parking situation. You will see beautiful places all decked out for the holidays and […]

This is one of the premier and long lasting choirs in the area. You can be sure that they will move you musically. Their holiday concert is sure to be inspiring and beautiful. In addition, it is in the Carmel Mission's basilica, noted for the quality of its acoustics.

Gusto Pizzeria is presenting its special event and menu for their holiday celebration. Lots of music, food and Buono Natale. Check out their website for details.http://gustopizzeriapasta.com

Local poets, musicians, performers Taelen Thomas and Bill Sparkman join up to present the life and music of Nobel Laureate Bob Dylan. Certainly this will be an enlightening and entertaining evening. How often can you really say that? So get your boots of Spanish Leather on and hop down to The Lab in Carmel. http://thelabarts.com

The talented young dancers of Spector Dance are presenting their work with the music of The Beatles and the Four Seasons. These are wonderfully talented young folks and make the music come alive. http://spectordance.org

A local chorus is presenting its annual performance, oddly, it is not a holiday themed performance. So if you are looking for a respite from holiday festivities but you'd like some music, come see them. http://thebirdsings.com

Local musician , Bodkin has assembled a first rate group of musicians to entertain you and take your mind off the holiday intensity. In addition to their other features the band has Mr Bodkin who, in 2017, won the World Championship Master Whistler competition. In itself that mat be worth getting out to see them. […]

This year the theme is "The Greatest Show". It features singing and aerial acts some from nationally  recognized acts. All with a focus on the "Reason for the Season". Family musical entertainment.  Three shows, 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.  http://compasschurchmc.org

Wondering what the future holds? Looking for insight to guide your decisions? Or just want to try something a little different? Come to Pilgrim's Way Community Bookstore on the second Saturday of each month and sip some tea while pursuing higher understanding. [email protected]

One of the longest-lasting spiritual bookstores in the area, Pilgrim's Way hosts a Tarot reading, every Saturday morning, for your enlightenment and peace of mind. While you are being read you may enjoy a cup of some delightful tea. They have a lot to offer, of tea and tarot both. [email protected]

This year the theme is "The Greatest Show". It features singing and aerial acts some from nationally  recognized acts. All with a focus on the "Reason for the Season". Family musical entertainment.  Two shows, 4:00 and 6:00.  http://compasschurchmc.org

In the Barnyard Shopping Center, like much of Carmel, there are artists' studios. This is your chance to see their work, talk to the artists, and buy some of their works. (Or just visit.) Mark Falina and six other artists are opening their shops for you enjoyment. Every second Saturday through December. http://thebarnyard.com

The talented young dancers of Spector Dance are presenting their work with the music of The Beatles and the Four Seasons. These are wonderfully talented young folks and make the music come alive. http://spectordance.org

Monterey Comedy Improv will bring their insights into local politics and controversies as well as things more interesting to those who prefer their humor more global and national. http://daliexpo.com

This is the local version of a tradition that is nearly 50 years old. Lots of "low brass" instrumentalists gather, practice (a little) and perform holiday songs while the audience sings along. It's a great way to get in the spirit, if you aren't already. http://tcmonterey.wixsite.com

The talented young dancers of Spector Dance are presenting their work with the music of The Beatles and the Four Seasons. These are wonderfully talented young folks and make the music come alive. http://spectordance.org

If you want to have a special evening at the Aquarium this is the way to go. You and lots of your friends, or coworkers, can come to the Aquarium and enjoy the exhibits, food, and music while creating a unique holiday memory. see the website for details. http://montereybayaquarium.org

The Stave Cellars at Pebble Beach are helping us get a better understanding of wine and its complexities and subtleties. They will give you a flight of wine and the info that will help you enjoy it and carry that info with you for future purchases and refinement of your palate. Sound Good? Check it […]

This is the legendary, award-winning vocal group that is often the accompaniment to music stars. These singers have been a group for 70 years. Obviously there are changes over the years, but the sound and impact remain consistent. Their accomplishments and awards are impressive, but they should be seen to be appreciated. http://goldenstatetheater.com

Cibo Restaurant is hosting an Italian Christmas celebration. Special menu and drinks to be served along with entertainment designed to evoke your inner Italian. Dinner from 6 to 11 and Happy Hour from 4-7http://cibo.com

All day Santa will be at the Wharf making a list and checking it over. And the vendors will be offering special bargains and holiday treats.

This is a monthly(3rd Saturday) event intended to grow the reputation of Salvador Dali and Monterey as an artist's venue. They will have art, jewelry, soap, clothing, and books and so much more. Come and see what the Dali Expo has to share with you. More info at [email protected]

Agape Dance is presenting their Nutcracker, the well-known tale of a little girl and her adventures in the realm of the Mice and Nutcracker. Professional and youth dancers combine in this production to bring a heart-warming version of the tale to the audience. http://agapedance.com

If you enjoy "Whose Line is it Anyway" Then come over to the Dali Expo and participate, maybe, in the performance of improv comedy at their venue. The group's years of local experience will help you have a great time here in Monterey County. [email protected]

The Seymour Marine Discovery Center, part of UCSC, hosts a weekly gathering for children and their families. The point is educating them about the fabulous and abundant life of the Monterey Bay and its environs. The means they use to do this is art and hands-on activities. You and your child can learn lots about […]

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Ms. Love is here to share the music she has sung and enjoyed for these many years. From the girl groups of the early 60's to the present she has been singing and spreading love for a long time.  Come see a true legend. http://sunsetcenter.org

The men's chorus, Chanticleer, is giving their annual Christmas Concert here at the Carmel Mission. A lovely setting for their beautiful music. Covering about 12 centuries of music, it is likely that you will find more than one piece that will elate and inspire you. http://chanticleer.org

Esteban's restaurant in the Casa Munras Hotel is serving delicious four course dinners on Christmas eve in order to take all the fretting out of your holiday. With the Spanish influence in their menu this is likely to be a unique dining experience, unless you just returned from Spain or you were raised there. Give […]

Esteban's restaurant in the Casa Munras Hotel is serving delicious four course dinners on Christmas Day in order to take all the fretting out of your holiday. With the Spanish influence in their menu this is likely to be a unique dining experience, unless you just returned from Spain or you were raised there. Give […]

Featuring the dance music of female artists the Glory Tribute group will be giving you a chance to shake the proverbial tail feather/moneymaker and work off some of those holiday treats. Come to Coaster's in Santa Cruz and get your groove on. http://glorytributes.com

Monterey Comedy Improv will bring their insights into local politics and controversies as well as things more interesting to those who prefer their humor more global and national. http://daliexpo.com

The contemporary dance company presents a two-part show, Classic Christmas and Cool Christmas. Featuring their innovative and challenging dance style and lots of music that will evoke the themes of their presentation you can expect a delightful holiday offering. http://sunsetcenter.org

Featuring the dance music of female artists, the Glory Tribute group will be giving you a chance to shake the proverbial tail feather/moneymaker and work off some of those holiday treats. Come to Coaster's in Santa Cruz and get your groove on. http://glorytributes.com

Join Local Weatherman (retired) Jim Vanderzwaan and a rotating group of local talent as they share some great music and camaraderie each month's last Sunday. http://facebook.com/silvertideseaside

The Seymour Marine Discovery Center, part of UCSC, hosts a weekly gathering for children and their families. The point is educating them about the fabulous and abundant life of the Monterey Bay and its environs. The means they use to do this is art and hands-on activities. You and your child can learn lots about […]

Featuring the dancers of the popular and innovative dance company, this presentation will have two  parts that coincide nicely with the two acts of the matinee. Cool Christmas and Classic Christmas are the titles and you can guess what those mean. In any case, you will have an enjoyable holiday interlude.http://sunsetcenter.org

You read that right. It is midday of New Year's Eve. Because it's at MY Museum and aimed at young children, and their weary parents. Celebrate early and get home while you still have some energy. Lots of activities and age appropriate celebrating. Epecially with the ball drop at noon. http://mymuseum.org

A gathering of organists and the Aeolian Skinner3 Manual Pipe Organ results in a kaleidophone. (Maybe.) In any case, you fans of organs and their musicians will get a kick out of this gathering. In addition there will be several other, more portable instruments, strings and reeds to play along and add some diversity of […]