MONTEREY — The 15th Annual Whalefest Monterey will transform Old Fisherman’s Wharf and the Custom House Plaza into a vibrant hub of marine discovery on April 12-13.
This family-friendly event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and is free to the public, encouraging everyone to engage with the wonders of the ocean.
This year’s festival promises an array of educational activities and entertainment designed for all ages. Attendees can explore a variety of interactive marine-themed exhibits, enjoy live music, and participate in hands-on activities while learning about the local marine environment and conservation efforts.
Key attractions will include public tours of research and rescue vessels, such as the “Current’Sea” from Marine Life Studies and “Sheila B.” from Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, along with the newly added historic fishing boat “General Pershing,” built by local artisans in 1930.
Whalefest Monterey is dedicated to supporting marine organizations focused on preserving and educating the public about the vital ecosystems of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS).
“Whalefest Monterey benefits many local and national marine organizations dedicated to explore, educate, inspire, and to empower the public to protect the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary,” event officials announced.
A distinguished symposium featuring prominent marine experts will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at the Monterey History and Art Stanton Center. Hosted by Dan Haifley, a member of the Board of Directors for the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation Monterey Bay, the symposium will delve into pressing marine issues and conservation strategies. For those interested in attending, further information and a full agenda can be found at whalefest.org/symposium.
The festival will abound with engaging activities, including Gyotaku (Japanese fish printing), origami, scrimshaw, and the much-loved Abalone Races. This year will also feature the participation of artists from the Monterey Bay Plein Air Painters Association who will share their creative processes while capturing the spirit of Whalefest.
Returning attractions include “Dee,” a life-sized inflatable humpback whale model that allows visitors to step inside for an immersive experience, and “Gracie,” a 30-foot whale skeleton that participants can help assemble. In addition, a calamari cooking demonstration by Gourmet Realtor Tene Shake is scheduled for April 12 at 2:30 p.m., complemented by Wharf Walks led by maritime historian Tim Thomas at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on both days.
An eclectic lineup of live music performances will enhance the festive atmosphere, with a comprehensive list of acts available on the Whalefest website.
Numerous nonprofit organizations will set up educational displays, including the American Cetacean Society, California Marine Sanctuary Foundation and Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, among others. With more than 30 exhibitors expected, Whalefest Monterey aims to draw public attention to the rich marine life that inhabits the sanctuary, which hosts an array of species, including whales, dolphins, otters and a diverse collection of seabirds.
Supported by sponsors, such as the Arts Council for Monterey County, the Monterey County Board of Supervisors and the City of Monterey, Whalefest is offered free of charge, relying on community sponsorships and donations. Opportunities for sponsorship are available for those interested in contributing to the festival.
For additional details about the event, including updates on activities, schedules and exhibitor information, visit whalefest.org or contact them via email at wh***************@gm***.com.
