Enjoy the pungent aroma as two tons of fresh California garlic are diced, sliced, pureed, mashed, rubbed, crushed, sautéed, simmered and more. Truly a delicious, vampire-free zone, July 23-25! Garlic ice cream, anyone?!

Join the 73rd celebration of the music of Johann Sebastian Bach, his contemporaries and musical heirs on the beautiful Monterey Peninsula, July 17-31.

The California Rodeo Salinas celebrates its 100th year of ropin’ and ridin’ and you’re invited. Mosey on down to Salinas to cheer on some of the country’s best bare back bronc riders, tie down ropers and steer wrestlers!

Christian music rocks Monterey, July 1-3, when the annual Spirit West Coast Festival sets up camp at the Laguna Seca Recreation area. One step from heaven for Christian music fans, this Festival is full of family fun and camaraderie.

Brand - That’s all big companies and teensy start-ups talk about. But what does it really mean and how is a brand built to last in these fast-moving times? Find out at the upcoming Sustainable Brands Conference, June 7-10, at the Monterey Conference Center.

Cannery Row is throwing its seventh annual rockin’ block party and you’re on the invitation list. On Sunday, June 6 enjoy a day on the coast with live musical and family entertainment, 11am-5pm. Just bring a can of food for Monterey County’s Food Bank and you’re in.

The Monterey Peninsula’s prickly, but delicious artichoke gets it day in the sun with a two day extravaganza in Castroville on May 15 and 16. The Fest includes a classic car show, wine tasting, artichokes served every way you can think of (and some you didn’t), the crowning of the 2010 Artichoke King and Queen and much more!

Missed the window to pre-register for the Big Sur Marathon? Don’t despair! Last minute registration for this internationally renowned event takes place in downtown Monterey, April 23rd and 24th.

Ocean lovers rejoice! One of the world’s best places for marine science research and education is opening its doors to the public April 17 and 18. For free!

Celebrate Earth Month with Hot Pink Flamingos… no, it’s not a John Waters movie sequel - it’s the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s new exhibit.
Come face-to-face with five-foot-tall Chilean flamingos, inquisitive roseate spoonbills and more sea life treats at the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s new Hot Pink Flamingos exhibit.