First Night Monterey 2026: “We’ve Got the Beat!”
Celebrate the arrival of 2026 in Historic Downtown Monterey at the region’s largest, family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration of the arts. Presented by First Night Monterey, this beloved annual festival offers nine hours of nonstop music, dance, theater, and hands-on art experiences in indoor and outdoor venues. From jazz and Latin rhythms to community art walls and children’s activities, First Night brings together diverse artists and audiences to ring in the new year creatively and alcohol-free.
Festivities begin at 3 PM with the Twilight Procession on Alvarado Street, followed by live performances in the Conference Center, museums, and local churches. The celebration culminates in a rousing finale at midnight!
Buttons—your admission to all events—go on sale in early December at local Safeway and Star Market stores, as well as online.
Visit www.firstnightmonterey.org to learn more, view the lineup, and plan your night of art, joy, and community.