Annual Food Events

Nearly every event on Monterey County's jam-packed calendar features a collection of culinary creations and wine celebrations reflective of the destination's people, culture and agriculture. A handful of events, though, are dedicated primarily to gastronomical pleasures.

The Monterey Greek Festival invites visitors to go Greek over Labor Day weekend. Held in Monterey's historic Custom House Plaza near Old Fisherman's Wharf, the festival's aroma of pork, lamb, chicken and fresh pastries is hard to resist, along with its music, dancing and general merrimaking.

For die-hard foodies, Pebble Beach Food and Wine in April matches 200 acclaimed wineries with 60 celebrity chefs for a weekend of wine and beverage tastings, cooking demonstrations and some of the most exclusive, unique dining opportunities available in the world.

Showcasing Monterey County wines and local restaurants, the Valley of the World Wine and Food Festival held in Salinas in January has become a favorite. The event features wine makers' dinners and an elegant Grand Finale tasting. Similarly, September's Taste of the Valley Food and Wine Show invites visitors to sample fresh new recipes from the farms and ranches of the Salinas Valley in partnership with local restaurants and wineries.

Ever tried artichoke ice cream? Here's your chance! Castroville is the Artichoke Center of the World and proudly celebrates its title at the annual Artichoke Festival. Culinary artichoke creations at the May festival include breads, soups, burritos and more. Also enjoy wine tasting, an agricultural art competition, a parade and live entertainment.

For ocean-fresh specialties, head to Monterey's Seafood and Music Festival in October. Taste seafood every way you like it – fresh, broiled, grilled, barbecued, fried and chowdered – in the heart of Old Monterey. Learn the ins and outs of sustainable seafood at the Monterey Bay Aquarium's gourmet event, Cooking for Solutions. The two-day fête spotlights celebrity chefs, selected and recognized for their leadership in promoting cuisine that protects the health of the ocean and soil, as they create cutting edge dishes, host food and wine adventures, and present cooking demonstrations that feature sustainable seafood and organic ingredients.

Experience the largest tomato tasting in the world every September in Carmel Valley. The Carmel Tomatofest® includes an unforgettable display of 350 heirloom tomato varieties from around the world. Don't miss exceptionally delicious and innovative tomato dishes created by 60 of America's hefs, a tasting of over 100 premium wines, and an amazing "Salsa Showcase." Another Carmel Valley hot spot is the Jewish Food Festival in August, featuring time-honored Jewish cuisine, customs, live music, and craft booths.

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