10 Community Activities in Monterey County This Weekend (That You Won’t See on Anyone Else’s List)

Monterey County is known for its world-class attractions — the aquarium, Big Sur, 17-Mile Drive — but the real heartbeat of this region is in the local gatherings, small businesses, makers, farmers, musicians, and neighbors who create the culture day by day.

This weekend, if you want to escape the crowds and plug into what the community is really doing, here are ten under-the-radar, local-first activities worth checking out. I’ve included direct links so you can plan easily and support local while you’re at it....

1. Friday Farmers Market at Del Monte Center (Monterey)

Friday • 8 AM
This is the perfect place to kick off your weekend. With over 60 local vendors, this market brings fresh produce, handcrafted goods, local honey, bread, flowers, and community conversations all in one spot.
📎 Link: https://www.whatsupmonterey.com/events

2. Pacific Grove Certified Farmers Market (Preview)

Monday • 3–6 PM
If you want a more intimate, neighbor-focused market, this weekly PG favorite is worth noting. Even though it’s not technically a weekend, include it in your plans because it’s one of the most authentic markets around.
📎 Link: https://www.whatsupmonterey.com/events

3. Back Porch Fabrics — Free Saturday Demo (Pacific Grove)

Saturday • 11 AM & 2 PM
This long-time local shop hosts free hands-on demos for fabric lovers, quilters, and creatives. It’s cozy, community-oriented, and a great way to learn a new skill or meet fellow makers.
📎 Link: https://business.pacificgrove.org/events

4. “Sequoias of the Sea” Environmental Film Screening (Asilomar)

Saturday • 2–4 PM
Learn about kelp forest restoration and the marine ecosystems that make our coast so special. This free screening attracts environmental enthusiasts, students, and locals passionate about conservation.
📎 Link: https://business.pacificgrove.org/events

5. Sunday Brunch + Live Music at PG Meetinghouse

Sunday • 10 AM–6 PM
Good food, local musicians, friendly vibes — it’s a slower pace and a great place to unwind, meet new people, and support a local business.
📎 Link: https://business.pacificgrove.org/events

6. Local Author Book Signing at Bookworks (Pacific Grove)

Friday • 6–8 PM
Author Alison van Diggelen is hosting a reading and signing — a perfect literary moment for anyone who loves books, storytelling, or supporting local creatives.
📎 Link: https://business.pacificgrove.org/events

7. Jazz Night at PG Meetinghouse

Saturday • 6:30–8:30 PM
An intimate, community-driven event that highlights local musicians. It’s low-key, warm, and very Monterey County.
📎 Link: https://business.pacificgrove.org/events

8. Sunday Fellowship at St. Mary’s by the Sea (Pacific Grove)

Sunday • 10 AM + 11 AM fellowship
If you’re looking for a grounded, community-centered connection this weekend, the service and fellowship hour here are genuinely welcoming.
📎 Link: https://business.pacificgrove.org/events

9. Marina Sunday Market

Sunday • 10 AM–2 PM
A family-friendly, locals-only feeling market with amazing produce, flowers, and community vendors. As a Marina resident, it’s one of the best ways to support the town and keep dollars local.
📎 Link: https://www.ksbw.com/article/ksbw-community-calendar/1058600

10. Old Monterey Marketplace Farmers Market (Preview for Next Week)

Tuesday • 4–7 PM
This one’s technically next week, but it deserves a preview because it’s one of the biggest local markets and a great one to plan ahead for.
📎 Link: https://www.montereyhotel.com/local-events

Final Thoughts

Monterey County has layers — and the deeper you go into the local scene, the more you discover. These community-driven, under-the-radar activities are what make living here truly special. Whether you’re looking for fresh food, live music, creativity, environmental storytelling, or ways to connect with your neighbors, this weekend has a little something for everyone.

If you found this helpful, share it with a friend or follow along on Instagram at @thereallinawilliams for more Monterey County lifestyle, local gems, and real estate insights.

Lina Williams, REALTOR