This summer, families vacationing in Monterey can make the memories they create last forever. The Victorian Inn’s “Summer Memories” package combines a terrific rate along with a custom-designed scrapbook kit to record the fun.

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?!

Meet Spottie, winner of our June ‘Love Me, Love My Dog’ photo contest benefitting the SPCA. Here’s how she enjoys Monterey…

Like to hang out at the beach with your pooch? Then we’ve got the place for you – with the Victorian Inn’s dog-friendly getaway that’s sure to get tails wagging. ‘Love Me, Love My Dog’ pampers guests and their four-legged friend with all kinds of pooch-friendly amenities and offers a chance to win a complimentary night’s stay each month through the pet photo contest. Bonus treat: 10% of every ‘Love Me, Love My Dog’ package goes to The SPCA for Monterey County!

Grab the girls, pack the beach bag, and head to Monterey for a splashy girls’ getaway with Monterey Bay Inn’s “You Go Girls!” summer package.

If you’re lucky enough to have tickets for the U.S. Open, you’re probably starting to plan your Monterey stay. Forget about fighting the traffic to and from Pebble Beach and parking woes. The Monterey Express Shuttle is the way to go!

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.