Monterey Events & Where to Dine: A Local Guide

What Are the Biggest Events in Monterey Each Year?

Monterey hosts world-class events all year -- from Monterey Car Week and racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca to the Sea Otter Classic, California Rodeo Salinas, the Monterey County Fair, and the California Roots Music & Arts Festival.

Where Should You Eat Around a Monterey Event?

Downtown Monterey is the easiest place to dine before or after an event -- walkable, central, and away from the busiest tourist crowds. Montrio, on Calle Principal, is a longtime local favorite for a relaxed dinner around event weekends.

When Is the Best Time to Book?

Event weekends fill fast. Reserve early -- especially for Car Week in August and race weekends at Laguna Seca -- to guarantee a table.

Monterey's Marquee Events

Monterey Bay's calendar stays busy from spring through fall. A few of the events that draw visitors from around the world:

• Monterey Car Week -- August's celebration of automotive history, concours, and auctions across the Peninsula
• WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca -- IndyCar, MotoGP, and historic racing throughout the season
• Sea Otter Classic -- one of the world's largest cycling festivals, held each spring
• California Rodeo Salinas -- one of the oldest and largest rodeos in the country
• Monterey County Fair -- a late-summer tradition of food, music, and community
• California Roots Music & Arts Festival -- Memorial Day weekend roots and reggae music

Where Montrio Fits In

After a day at the track, the fairgrounds, or the festival, downtown Monterey is the place to slow down. Montrio's seasonal menu -- fresh seafood, prime steaks, and Central Coast wines -- is built for the kind of evening that caps off a big day. Larger groups in town for an event can also book a private dining room.

If you're making a weekend of it, Montrio's sister restaurants are worth knowing: Tarpy's, just outside town near Highway 68, and Rio Grill in nearby Carmel.

Ready to Plan Your Event Weekend?

Reserve early for any Monterey event weekend. Call 831.648.8880 to book your table at Montrio in downtown Monterey.

Proudly serving Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Salinas, Seaside, and visitors exploring California's Central Coast.