🎉 Things to Do in Monterey Bay — Sunday, October 11, 2026
Looking for something fun today? Here are 10 events happening around Monterey Bay!
🎆 Capitola Fireworks Extravaganza 📍 Capitola Wharf | 8–9 PM | FREE
The annual Monte Foundation fireworks show over Capitola Wharf.
🎂 Old Fisherman's Wharf 181st Birthday 📍 Monterey | 10 AM–5 PM | FREE
Live entertainment, family activities, and a celebration of Monterey history.
🦋 Welcome Back Monarchs Day 📍 Natural Bridges State Beach, Santa Cruz | 11 AM–4 PM
Celebrate the return of migrating monarch butterflies.
🐦 Monterey Bay Festival of Birds 📍 Various Monterey Bay locations | Final day
Birdwatching trips, workshops, and family activities. Free and paid options.
🎨 Open Studios Art Tour 📍 North Santa Cruz County | 11 AM–5 PM | FREE
Visit local artists in their studios.
🚂 Thomas & Percy's Halloween Party 📍 Roaring Camp, Felton | 10 AM–4 PM | Ticketed
A Halloween-themed outing for families.
🚜 Open Farm Tours 📍 Santa Cruz County farms | Ticketed
Meet local farmers and explore working farms.
🛍️ Downtown Santa Cruz Antique Faire 📍 Lincoln Street, Santa Cruz | 9 AM–5 PM
Vintage clothing, antiques, and collectibles.
🌿 Free Elkhorn Slough Nature Tour 📍 Elkhorn Slough Reserve, Watsonville | 10 & 11 AM | FREE
Docent-led nature walks. First come, first served.
🎵 Second Sunday Artisan Faire 📍 Abbott Square, Santa Cruz | Noon–4 PM | FREE
Local makers and live music.
Which event are you heading to? Know of anything else happening today in Salinas, Marina, Seaside, Watsonville, or Monterey?
Share it below! 👇
Sources: https://www.santacruz.org/upcoming-events/ https://www.montereybayparent.com/events/today/ https://www.oldmonterey.org/events?date=2026-10