The 16th Annual Whalefest Monterey will be held on Saturday and Sunday, April 11–12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day, at and around Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Custom House Plaza within Monterey State Historic Park. This free, family-friendly event brings together marine education, science, history, and the arts to raise awareness and support for the protection of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

The many event activities and schedule are continuously updated on the website, www.whalefest.org. Monterey Public Library & Museums will be in attendance along with several other local organizations and vendors!

Whalefest Monterey features interactive marine-themed exhibits, live music, hands-on marine educational activities for all ages, and public tours of research and rescue vessels. The festival benefits numerous local, regional, and national marine organizations dedicated to exploring, educating, and inspiring the public to protect the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and its ecosystems.