The Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce lists the Holiday Parade of Lights on Thursday, December 3, 2026 at 6 p.m. and Holiday at the Inns on Tuesday, December 8, 5–9 p.m. Pacific Grove is a separate city from Monterey; the City of Pacific Grove runs the Monarch Grove Sanctuary with the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, and a Chamber post says it is free and open sunrise to sunset, weather permitting.
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best for | A small-town coast, monarch viewing and holiday events |
| Trade-offs | Separate city; a car or bus is likely needed |
| Getting around | MST buses: $2.00 single ride, $6.00 daily; the free summer trolley is not running until May 22, 2027 |
| Key places | Monarch Grove Sanctuary, Lighthouse Avenue |
| Nearby | Cannery Row, Monterey |
What to see and do
Monarch viewing is seasonal; check the museum and the City before you go.
Practical notes
See transportation for MST fares and the hotels guide for the hotel tax. Hours, prices and access rules change; confirm with each venue.
Our assessment
Combine the Parade of Lights with a Cannery Row evening on the same trip.