Rooted in Monterey: Your Weekly Dose of Local Life & Happenings (Jan 15–18, 2026)

Hello friends,

There's something about mid-January on the Central Coast that feels like a well-kept secret. The holiday rush has faded, the tourist crowds have thinned, and what's left is this beautiful, unhurried rhythm, crisp mornings, calm afternoons, and more excuses to explore parts of our region you don't always get to.

Winter here isn't about bundling up and staying inside. It's about wandering farmers markets without fighting for parking, discovering a new coffee spot on a quiet Saturday, or finally checking out that art walk you've been meaning to visit. It's a community connection at its most natural.

This week, I found 10 events happening across Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties, from fungi festivals to live music, nature walks to neighborhood markets. Whether you're craving culture, fresh air, or just a reason to get out the door, there's something here for you.

Rooted in Monterey, Meetup of the Week

No formal meetup this week, just intentional community time.

If you're out at any of the events below and spot me, please come say hello. I genuinely love running into neighbors, swapping recommendations, and hearing what's keeping you rooted in this region.

These local experiences: the ones where you bump into familiar faces, discover a new vendor, or catch a band you've never heard of: are what make the Central Coast feel like home. So consider this your open invitation: if we cross paths this weekend, don't be a stranger.

Rooted in Monterey: Business of the Week

☕ Acme Coffee: Seaside

This week's local business spotlight goes to Acme Coffee, a third-wave coffee gem tucked into the heart of Seaside.

If you haven't been yet, picture this: carefully sourced beans, drinks crafted with intention, and a neighborhood atmosphere that invites you to slow down and stay awhile. It's the kind of place where baristas remember your order after a few visits, locals gather at communal tables, and the vibe is equal parts cozy and calm.

What I love most about Acme is the way it anchors its community. It's not trying to be a chain or chase trends: it's just delicious coffee in a space that feels genuinely welcoming. Whether you're grabbing a quick cortado before errands or settling in with a book and a pour-over, it hits the mark.

Have a favorite Acme memory? Hit reply: I'd love to feature reader stories in a future newsletter. Maybe it's where you had your first great espresso in Monterey County, or the spot where you finally finished that novel. Whatever it is, I want to hear it.

📍 Seaside, CA

Rooted in Monterey: Events This Weekend

Ten different cities and communities. Ten reasons to get outside. Here's what's happening across Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties this weekend:

🍄 Santa Cruz Fungus Fair: Santa Cruz

The annual celebration of all things fungi returns to Santa Cruz. Explore hundreds of mushroom species, catch expert talks and cooking demos, browse vendor booths, and geek out with fellow mycology enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned forager or just curious about the weird and wonderful world of mushrooms, this one's a must.

When: Friday–Sunday, January 16–18, 2026

Where: Santa Cruz

🔗 Learn more at ffsc.us

🎭 8 Tens @ 8 Festival: Santa Cruz

Short plays, local playwrights, community actors, and each piece clocks in at exactly eight minutes. It's fast-paced, creative, and a fantastic way to support Santa Cruz's thriving theater scene. Expect laughs, surprises, and maybe a few tears.

When: Friday, January 16, 2026

Where: Santa Cruz

🔗 Festival details via Good Times SC

🎸 Live Music at Moe's Alley: Santa Cruz

Moe's Alley is always a good call for live music, and this Friday is no exception. Catch Keith Lowell Jensen and more taking the stage for a night of entertainment in one of the area's most beloved venues.

When: Friday, January 16, 2026

Where: Santa Cruz

🔗 Check the lineup via Good Times SC

🐘 Explore Año Nuevo with a Docent : Pescadero

There's no better time to visit Año Nuevo than winter, when elephant seals are in full breeding season. Join a docent-led nature walk for coastal views, wildlife insights, and a deeper appreciation of this stunning stretch of coastline just north of Santa Cruz.

When: Saturday, January 17, 2026

Where: Año Nuevo State Park, Pescadero

🔗 Event info via Santa Cruz Parent

🥬 Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College: Aptos

Fresh local produce, artisan goods, and that unmistakable Saturday morning farmers market energy. The Aptos market at Cabrillo College is a community staple: perfect for stocking up on seasonal veggies or just wandering the stalls with a coffee in hand.

When: Saturday, January 17, 2026

Where: Cabrillo College, Aptos

🔗 Market details via Santa Cruz Parent

🎧 DJ Geo Stasi at Compact Disco: Monterey

Looking for a Friday night out? Compact Disco in Monterey is hosting DJ Geo Stasi for a night of funk, disco, R&B, and dancing. It's 21+ and precisely the low-key, good-vibes evening this region does so well.

When: Friday, January 16, 2026

Where: Monterey

🔗 Event info via Old Monterey

🌽 Marina Certified Farmers Market: Marina

One of Monterey County's most consistent community markets. Local produce, prepared foods, and friendly vendors: all in the heart of Marina. A perfect Saturday morning ritual.

When: Saturday, January 17, 2026

Where: Marina

🔗 Find details at See Monterey

🥕 Salinas Downtown Farmers Market: Salinas

Support local growers and small businesses at the Salinas Downtown Farmers Market. It's a great chance to explore downtown Salinas, grab some seasonal produce, and connect with the agricultural heart of Monterey County.

When: Saturday, January 17, 2026

Where: Downtown Salinas

🔗 More info at See Monterey

🎨 Carmel Art Walk: Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel's galleries open their doors for an evening of art, wine, and wandering. It's a lovely excuse to stroll through one of the most picturesque downtowns on the coast, and maybe discover a new favorite artist along the way.

When: Saturday, January 17, 2026

Where: Carmel-by-the-Sea

🔗 Details via See Monterey

🍅 Live Oak Farmers Market: Santa Cruz

Cap off your weekend at the Live Oak Farmers Market. Seasonal produce, artisan stalls, and a strong sense of community spirit make this Sunday market a Santa Cruz favorite.

When: Sunday, January 18, 2026

Where: Live Oak, Santa Cruz

🔗 Find it via Santa Cruz Parent

Before You Go

That's your weekend, friends: ten ways to get outside, support local, and soak up everything that makes the Central Coast feel like home. Whether you're exploring mushrooms in Santa Cruz, dancing in Monterey, or grabbing fresh produce closer to home, I hope you find something that sparks a little joy.

Got a favorite local event or business I should know about? I'm always looking for recommendations. Just reply to this post or reach out directly: I love hearing from neighbors.

And if we run into each other out there this weekend? Say hi. I'd love to meet you.

Have a beautiful weekend 🤍

Lina Williams | REALTOR® DRE #02038799 Real Broker, LLC 📱 831-230-8671 🌊 www.linawilliams.com