Monterey History & Art Association

2024 La Merienda
2024-06-01 11:15 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Memory Garden, 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
Tickets

2024 Annual La Merienda Celebration – City of Monterey’s 254th birthday party features a BARBECUE BUFFET EXTRAVAGANZA by Old Fisherman’s Grotto Chefs and the VIP Merienda Barbecue Committee. who will create a five-star culinary experience.

Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 11:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Memory Garden, 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey (Enter La Merienda at the Memory Garden Gate near the entrance to Peter B’s.)

Full-size PDF with additional information.

Tickets

MHAA members $100Non-members $125

For more Information: Call 831-277-0796 or email Merienda2024@gmail.com.

If there is a particular table you want to be seated at or you want to sit with specific people, please email us at merienda2024@gmail.com with your preference.

A Local Tradition

Each year since La Merienda was founded, a local young woman with connections to Monterey is chosen as La Favorita, and with her lovely court, reigns over this unique celebration of Monterey’s history. Two other young women are selected to serve as her attendants (“Doncellas”). The women who are chosen for these roles are accompanied by a chaperone (“La Duena”). These young women dress in traditional Spanish gowns and mantillas (scarves) and greet guests, cut the birthday cake, and hold court at the celebration.

The recipient of the 2024 Laura Bride Powers Award, Monterey History & Art Association’s most prestigious award, will be honored at this year’s La Merienda. This award is named after the woman who is credited with conceiving both the idea of the Association and the Merienda celebration, which antedated MHAA’s founding. Mrs. Powers was the Curator of the Custom House and First Theater and an ardent student of California history.

La Merienda can be described as a “party within a party” with uniquely decorated hosted tables. Attendees may invite friends, don a costume, decorate a table, and have fun at this festive event! Come for the celebration, join a table and make some new friends. Meet elected officials, military leaders, and local dignitaries at this not-to-be-missed annual event!

Monterey History & Art Association members may purchase tickets starting March 1st for $100 and, if available, non-members may purchase tickets on April 1st. Whole tables can only be purchased on March 1st if all table attendees are members. On April 1st all non-member attendees (if seats are still available) pay the non-member price of $125.

Sponsorships are available to underwrite the cost of La Merienda.

Some of the past La Merienda’s valued sponsors were Lucia Boggiatto, Charles Chrietzberg, Candyland, Cannery Row Company, Cima Colina, Coin & Treasure Shoppe, Fenton and Keller, 1st Capital Bank, Anthony Lombardo & Associates, Mission Linen, Monterey Bay Restaurant Equipment, Monterey County Bank, Nicora Law Offices, LLP, Morgan Stanley, Old Fisherman’s Grotto, Portola Hotel & Spa, Peter B’s Brewpub, and Santa Cruz County Bank.

The La Merienda Barbecue is always served by well-known community members. In past years, La Merienda Head Barbecue servers have included the late Peter Coniglio, who coordinated this part of the event in the past for over 40 years, with Chris Shake taking it on in 2015.

Past La Merienda Barbecue Committee members included:

Honorable Leon Panetta, former Secretary of Defense and Director of CIA, Congressman Jimmy Panetta, State Assemblyman Mark Stone, Monterey County Supervisor Mary Adams, Monterey County Sheriff Steve Bernal, Former Monterey County District Attorney Dean Flippo, City of Monterey Councilman Dan Albert, Jr., Former City of Monterey Mayor Dan Albert, Sr. District Attorney Jeannine Pancioni, Honorable Judge Stephanie Hulsey, City of Carmel Mayor Dave Potter and other community leaders.

La Merienda (the Spanish word for a picnic) includes great food and entertainment, a procession, and much, much more. This not-to-be-missed very special community event celebrates the founding of the City of Monterey in June 1770 when Father Junipero Serra and Captain Gaspar de Portola celebrated with a picnic overlooking the Monterey Bay.

La Merienda, Monterey’s annual birthday party, is a colorful fiesta barbecue of delicious foods, wine, beer, soft drinks, gallant dons and donas, lovely senoritas, lively music, and festive dance. La Merienda (the Spanish term for an afternoon picnic or mid-day meal) re-enacts an elegant 18th-century fiesta. It celebrates the founding of the town of Monterey on June 3, 1770, when Padre Junípero Serra, father of the California missions (now Saint Junipero Serra), and Captain Gaspar de Portola, a Spanish military leader, joined forces to establish the pueblo of Monterey, California’s first Capital. Their meeting also honored the founding of the “Royal Presidio Chapel”, which today is known as San Carlos Cathedral. After the ceremonies that day, everyone sat down for a picnic under a large oak tree near their ship, the San Antonio, which rested in the harbor.

The first modern Merienda was celebrated in 1929, two years before the formation of the Monterey History & Art Association. A ceremony at Colton Hall and a small luncheon at the Memory Garden marked the occasion. It was presided over by Carmel Martin and Harry Greene. The next year, 350 people joined Carmel Martin, who again acted as Master of Ceremonies, in the Memory Garden and once again celebrated Monterey’s birthday. The Monterey History & Art Association has celebrated this important early California historic event every year since the Association was established in 1931 (except one year during World War II and 2020 & 2021 due to covid). The large rose-adorned birthday cake is carried in by local young men (“cake-bearers”) and is sliced with the sword of Colonel Roger S. Fitch, the first President of the Monterey History & Art Association.

Family Day Open House
2024-04-20 10:00 - 16:00 | CA
Join us on Saturday, April 20, for a captivating Family Day Open House hosted by the Monterey History and Art Association. From 10 am to 4 pm, explore a variety of intriguing historical and artistic venues at various MHAA locations. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Monterey with exhibits and activities designed for all ages.

As part of the experience, there’s an exclusive opportunity to become a member, unlocking access to a year-round calendar of special members-only events. This promises to be an exciting day filled with discoveries and memorable moments.

For the latest updates and detailed information about the event, please visit montereyhistory.org/events. Save the date, and stay tuned for more details as we approach this enriching day of exploration!

Artist Reception: Tony Klaas
2024-03-16 14:00 - 16:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Join us at the Stanton Center Museum on Saturday, March 16, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM for an artist reception showcasing the diverse and captivating works of local artist Tony Klaas. From his early influences in the theater to encounters with iconic figures like Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso, Klaas’s journey is reflected in his ever-evolving art. Explore his distinct styles over the decades, from surrealism to landscape realism, all bound by his belief in the transformative power of color. Immerse yourself in the magic of Tony Klaas’s artistic legacy.

Art and Artists in Casa Serrano
2024-03-03 14:00 - 16:00 | Casa Serrano, 412 Pacific Street, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
Terry Trotter will discuss some of the Art and Artists on exhibit in Casa Serrano. This event is free for MHAA Members, $10 for Non Members.

Join MHAA and local art expert Terry Trotter on March 3rd from 2-4 pm for a captivating tour of the art and artists at the historic Casa Serrano adobe. Explore the cultural richness and heritage of this iconic location while gaining valuable insights into the artistic significance it holds.

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art and history.

1864 to War's End: Central Coast Conference
2024-03-01 09:00 - 2024-03-03 16:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of American history at the “1864 to War’s End” conference, a three-day captivating exploration of the pivotal year in the American Civil War.

Celebrating its 160th anniversary, this event boasts an all-star lineup of distinguished speakers, including Gary Gallagher, Harold Holzer, Gordon Rhea, Craig Symonds, and Joan Waugh. These renowned experts will anchor their presentations with insightful analyses and perspectives on the crucial events of 1864, shedding light on the war’s unfolding dynamics. The conference unfolds against the picturesque backdrop of Monterey’s historic Custom House Plaza, nestled on the stunning Central Coast of California. Join fellow history enthusiasts for a compelling journey through a critical chapter in American history, as the speakers unravel the complexities and consequences of the Civil War during this transformative period.

Click Here for Tickets & Information

Paul Whitman Reception
2024-02-20 17:00 - 19:00 | CA
Join us for an exclusive art reception as we pay tribute to the extraordinary artistic legacy of Paul Whitman. This special event, taking place on February 20th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Stanton Center Museum, will honor the contributions of this talented artist, generously donated to our collection by his daughter, the late Ann Chapman.

As devoted MHAA members, you are invited to immerse yourselves in an evening dedicated to the celebration of Paul Whitman’s artistic journey. The pieces on display, donated by Ann Chapman, offer a unique glimpse into Whitman’s creative spirit and the indelible mark he left on the local art scene.

As a members-only occasion, this event provides an exclusive opportunity for MHAA members to gather, appreciate, and reflect on the artistic brilliance of Paul Whitman. Admission is free, and RSVP is required to ensure an intimate and memorable experience for all attendees.

Light refreshments will be served during the event. If you’re not already an MHAA member, now is the perfect time to join! Become a member today through [https://mhaa.dreamhosters.com/join-or-donate/] to not only attend this special reception but also gain access to many more exclusive members-only events throughout the year.

To secure your place at this commemorative event, please RSVP by emailing mhaa.org1931@gmail.com. We look forward to sharing this poignant evening with you, celebrating the enduring impact of Paul Whitman’s art on the Monterey cultural landscape.

The Star, The Saint And The City
2024-02-11 14:00 - 16:00 | Casa Serrano, 412 Pacific Street, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
You are invited to a Book Lecture by local author Bill Briggs on “How Sam Brannon’s Newspaper Heralded The Gold Rush and Created San Francisco.”

Like a Greek tragedy set in Gold Rush California, THE STAR, THE SAINT AND THE CITY is the true story of publisher Samuel Brannan, who amassed California’s first great fortune. He became early San Francisco’s most influential and flamboyant figure after trading his Mormon faith for his belief in the future of California, only to lose his fortune and die in obscurity.

In this engaging event, our expert speaker, William Briggs, will guide you through the pages of history, exploring the fascinating interplay between media, entrepreneurship, and the shaping of a city. Discover how Sam Brannan, a dynamic figure of the Gold Rush era, used the power of the press to not only report on the unfolding events but also to influence and guide the course of one of the most transformative periods in American history.

Author William Briggs is an Emeritus California State University Dean of Communications and author of two previous volumes of California history, BADASS LAWMAN and THAT PIRATE, BOUCHARD.

This event is free for MHAA Members, $10 for Non Members

Comedy Improv Night at the Stanton
2024-02-10 19:00 - 21:00 | CA
Get ready to laugh out loud with Controlled Chaos, Monterey’s very own improv group! Join us for a night of spontaneous comedy, where every scene is created on the spot before your eyes. Don’t miss the hilarity and joy of this unscripted performance – it’s a night of Controlled Chaos you won’t forget!

CLICK HERE for tickets!

Author Talk with Nidhi Chanani
2024-01-19 15:45 - 16:45 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
The Monterey Public Library and Monterey History and Art Association are teaming up to bring you An Author Talk with Nidhi Chanani!

Nidhi Chanani is known for writing and illustrating children’s graphic novels (Pashmina, Jukebox and Shark Princess.) She is going to talk about her journey to becoming a graphic novelist, her writing and drawing process, and her newest work Super Boba Café, which takes place in nearby San Francisco.

The event is free to all. No reservations necessary.

Doors open 3:15 PM, the event begins at 3:45 PM. No registration required.

Kwanzaa Celebration
2023-12-31 18:30 - 20:30 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Glodean Champion, in partnership with Black Leaders and Allies Collaborative (BLAAC) & Juneteenth Coalition, invites you to join us for an evening of soul-stirring food and a conversation about building stronger love and unity in our community.

Celebrating Kwanzaa, a seven-day holiday that celebrates African-American history, values, family, culture, and community.Please join us for Kuumba, the sixth day of Kwanzaa. A day where we are reminded “to always do as much as we can to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.”This special event is Hosted by Glodean Champion, Author, and 2x TEDx Speaker – with a special message from Tyller Williamson, Mayor of Monterey.The day ends with the Karamu Feast! Bring your favorite cultural dish or check out these easy Kwanzaa and soul food recipes. BUT… whether you bring a dish or not, please join us for soul-stirring food and a conversation about stronger love and unity in our Monterey Bay communities.

Donation: $25 (in advance) / $30 (at the door) – click here to purchase tickets today! Feel free to share with your friends and family!!

Parking is available at the newly remodeled Fisherman’s Wharf parking (between Fisherman’s Wharf #1 & #2).

Christmas in the Adobes - Casa Serrano & Mayo Hayes O'Donnell Library
2023-12-08 17:00 - 21:00 | CA
Christmas in the Adobes (Casa Serrano and Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library open)

Step into the magic of the season at Monterey’s Christmas in the Adobes! Wander through the historic Casa Serrano and Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library, adorned with enchanting holiday decorations, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. Join MHAA for a celebration of culture and cheer, featuring two sites on the self-guided annual holiday tour of live entertainment, musical performances, and activities for all ages. Don’t miss out on this joyful experience—come and be a part of the holiday magic in Monterey!

Stanton Art Market
2023-12-03 10:00 - 16:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Celebrate the local arts and embrace the spirit of community at our Winter Stanton Art Market!

Immerse yourself in a captivating showcase of local talent and creativity, where artists from our very own community come together to share their extraordinary works. Explore a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, crafts, and more, all crafted with passion and skill right here in our vibrant town.

Engage directly with the artists themselves, forging connections and gaining insights into their inspirations and techniques. Experience the joy of supporting local artisans as you discover unique treasures that reflect the essence of our community.

The Stanton Art Market is more than just a market—it’s a celebration of togetherness. Feel the pulse of live music and indulge in local culinary delights, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared appreciation for the arts.

Join us in creating a vibrant tapestry of local art and community engagement, where every brushstroke and every conversation contribute to the rich cultural fabric of our town. Winter has never been more inspiring!

Italian Heritage Society Open House
2023-12-02 13:00 - 16:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Bounty of the Sea Exhibition at Stanton Center

Join us in celebrating the Italian Heritage Society’s generous contribution to the Stanton Center, “Bounty of the Sea” with an opening reception from 1:00-4:00 pm.

$2 Tuesday: A Star is Born (1937)
2023-11-21 18:30 | CA
Monterey History and Art Association presents$2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton

A Complicated Remedy - An Alexis K. Mannheim Exhibition
2023-11-18 18:00 - 20:00 | CA
MONTEREY HISTORY AND ART PRESENTS

A Complicated Remedy

AN ALEXIS K. MANHEIM EXHIBITIONSHOWING AT THE STANTON CENTERTHROUGH JANUARY 2024

Artist Reception18 November 6-8 pmEXHIBITION COURTESY OF CHANDLER FINE ART

Bites & Suds
2023-10-19 17:00 - 20:00 | Casa Serrano, 412 Pacific Street, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
SORRY, THIS EVENT IS CANCELLED

Join Us for a Beer Tasting Featuring Alvarado Street Brewing

Thursday, October 19th 5-8 PMCasa Serrano

MHAA Members – $45 Non-Members $55

Purchase Tickets by October 12th

For more information email bites-suds@montereyhistory.org or call (831) 601-4228.

Flyer

Video Presentation - The Bridges of Southern Monterey County
2023-08-15 13:30 - 15:30 | Casa Serrano, 412 Pacific Street, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
Members and their friends are invited to a lecture/video presentation at Casa Serrano on Tuesday, August 15, starting at 1:30 p.m. The Bridges of Southern Monterey County is the topic; the speakers are John and Karen Jernigan of King City and Howard Strohn of San Ardo. All three are members of the San Antonio Valley Historical Association and specialize in the history of South County, in particular the Jolon and Lockwood area.

John took an interest in the bridges after the floods on the Salinas River this year. He was able to study historic photos from the Lou G. Hare collection at the Monterey County Historical Society in Salinas. Mr. Hare was a county surveyor around the turn of the century and was involved in the building and photographing of bridges around the county. The bridges were integral to the social and commercial fabric of the small communities along the river. The slide show will feature bridges starting at the Pacific Ocean and moving south in the upstream direction of the Salinas River. Karen Jernigan is a former news reporter for the King City Rustler.

Howard Strohn currently lives in San Ardo. He served several years as president of the Big Sur Historical Society and 14 years as president of Historic Mission San Antonio.

Howard recently worked with the Jernigans to write the “King City, Images of America” book that was published last year by Arcadia Publishing. Copies of the book will be available for sale at this event.

Reservations are required.RSVP by calling 831-647-8621.Cost is $10 for non-members at the door.Free for MHAA members

Family Fun Day
2023-08-12 10:00 - 16:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Join us for a memorable Family Fun Day at the Stanton Center from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Experience the excitement of a captivating photo scavenger hunt around the historic Custom House Plaza, immersing yourself in the rich history of Monterey. Explore hidden corners, capture unique photographs, and compete for fantastic prizes generously donated by local businesses. Complete the scavenger hunt and unlock half-price admission to the museum, where you can further delve into the captivating stories and artifacts of our community.

This free event promises a day filled with fun, laughter, and discovery for families to create cherished memories together. Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to engage with Monterey’s history in an interactive and entertaining way.

Photo scavenger hunt cards can be picked up at the Stanton Center from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm.

Stanton Art Market
2023-07-23 10:00 - 16:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Celebrate the local arts and embrace the spirit of community at our Summer Stanton Art Market!

Immerse yourself in a captivating showcase of local talent and creativity, where artists from our very own community come together to share their extraordinary works. Explore a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, crafts, and more, all crafted with passion and skill right here in our vibrant town.

Engage directly with the artists themselves, forging connections and gaining insights into their inspirations and techniques. Experience the joy of supporting local artisans as you discover unique treasures that reflect the essence of our community.

The Stanton Art Market is more than just a market—it’s a celebration of togetherness. Feel the pulse of live music and indulge in local culinary delights, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared appreciation for the arts.

Join us in creating a vibrant tapestry of local art and community engagement, where every brushstroke and every conversation contribute to the rich cultural fabric of our town. Summer has never been more inspiring!

Participating vendors include:

ADZ Studios

By the Bay Crochet

DAVIDOmade

Details by Angela

Diane Mouradian

Ekaterina de la Torre

G.B. Creations

In Raw Light

Jen Ann Handmade

Julia Esdaile Art

Maryia Crabbe Art

Mothertree Apothecary

Ratt King Arts

Strawberry Pendants and Prints

and more!

Comedy Variety Showcase
2023-07-22 19:00 - 21:30 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Get ready for an uproarious evening of laughter and entertainment at the Comedy Variety Showcase! Join us for an unforgettable night filled with side-splitting stand-up comedy, hilarious skits, and rib-tickling performances. Our talented lineup of comedians and entertainers will have you rolling in the aisles with their witty humor and comic timing. From clever one-liners to outrageous improvisation, this show guarantees non-stop laughter from start to finish. Don’t miss out on this side-splitting extravaganza that will leave your cheeks sore from grinning! Grab your friends, bring your sense of humor, and get ready to laugh until your sides hurt at the Comedy Variety Showcase.

$2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton!
2023-07-18 18:30 - 20:00, 2023-07-11 18:30 - 20:00, 2023-06-20 18:30 - 20:00, 2023-06-06 18:30 - 20:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Grab $2 and join us for a screening of a classic film in our intimate theatre!

It’s $2 Tuesday Movie Night at Stanton! If you’ve got two dollars, we’ve got a place for you to sit back, relax, and enjoy a classic film.

Seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. General Admission seating is $2 a seat and VIP tables are $5 a seat. Cash at the door only, please have exact change. Refreshments available for purchase on-site, please no outside food or beverages.

Wondir: an Artist Reception
2023-06-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Monterey History Art at Stanton Center is thrilled to present “WONDIR,” a captivating gallery exhibition featuring the visionary works of contemporary artist Hanif Wondir. This highly anticipated exhibition will be unveiled with a free artist reception at the Stanton Center on June 17th, 2023 from 6:00-8:00 pm, and a soft opening June 1st, inviting visitors on a technique-bending journey through the inner and outer realms of imagination and the potential of visual technological technique blending. “Wondir” will be shown at the Stanton Center through 31 July 2023

Juneteenth Film Festival
2023-06-17 12:00 - 2023-06-18 20:00, 2023-06-14 18:30 - 2023-06-16 20:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
A﻿bout the Event

Our Juneteenth Film Festival is to honor Black actors/actresses, writers, directors and filmmakers through films that present compelling moral stories and educate on racism and Black history. The film festival is from June 14-18, showcasing a different set of films each day. Doors to the theatre open 30 minutes prior to the screenings.

Disclaimer

Please note that some screenings are of archival films that may make use of outdated and offensive terms. Such offensive terminology is no longer used at the Stanton Center. These films are therefore a time capsule from a bygone era, presented in its original version, in the hope that it will help raise awareness, educate and generate discussion.

Juneteenth Film Festival Opening Night Celebration
2023-06-14 17:30 - 18:30 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
The opening night of the Juneteenth Film Festival promises to be a momentous occasion! It will be an opportunity to celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans, as well as shed light on the significance of Juneteenth in American history. Our aim is to foster understanding, inspire dialogue, and promote cultural exchange.

As an esteemed guest, you will have the chance to mingle with industry professionals, filmmakers, artists, and fellow enthusiasts. Your presence will contribute to the vibrant atmosphere and help create an unforgettable opening night experience.

We look forward to celebrating the spirit of Juneteenth with you and sharing this remarkable cinematic journey. Together, let us honor the past, embrace the present, and shape a better future.

Monterey Bay Jade Festival Opening Night Film Screening
2023-06-09 19:00 - 20:00 | Monterey History and Art at Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940
Step into a world of enchantment as we invite you to the exclusive film screening of Andrew B. Matheson’s “Circle of Life” at the historic Stanton Center Theatre. Prepare to embark on a mesmerizing adventure into the captivating realm of jade, a gemstone steeped in history, mystique, and awe-inspiring beauty.

As the lights dim and the screen comes to life, you will be transported across ancient lands and modern excavations, unraveling the untold stories and profound cultural significance of jade. This groundbreaking documentary, crafted with precision and passion, showcases the captivating journey of jade from its formation deep within the Earth to its transformation into stunning works of art.

The Monterey Bay Jade Festival unites our community each year through this beautiful and resilient stone and we are thrilled to host this screening as a celebration of their weekend event at the historic Stanton Center.

FREE General Admission Seating

$20 VIP Table of 2 seats

2023 La Merienda
2023-06-03 11:15 - 15:00 | Memory Garden, 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
The City’s oldest annual event will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023, from 11:15 am to 3 pm in the Memory Garden on Custom House Plaza, in the Memory Garden on Custom House Plaza. For the past 90 years, the Monterey History & Art Association has hosted this community fiesta to commemorate the 1770 founding of the City of Monterey when Father Junipero Serra and Captain Gaspar de Portola celebrated with a picnic overlooking the Monterey Bay and the 1931 founding of MHAA.
Sorry, tickets are no longer available!
All proceeds above the cost of La Merienda itself go to Monterey History & Art Association’s support and maintenance of Casa Serrano, Doud House & Garden, Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library, Jo Mora Collection, Sloat Landing and Stanton Center. You can become a MHAA member, sponsor or donor here. MHAA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Tax ID# 94-1517208.
Public self-pay parking is available in the West and East Garages on Franklin Street, Heritage Harbor Garage on Scott Street and the Wharf Parking Lot.
La Merienda celebrates the City of Monterey’s 253rd birthday with a very special BARBECUE BUFFET EXTRAVAGANZA, a five-star culinary experience created by the OLD FISHERMAN’S GROTTO CHEFS and the VIP Merienda Barbecue Committee headed by Chris Shake, which includes Certified Angus Beef New York Steak, BBQ chicken breast, mild Italian sausage, salmon, Paella, 3 salad choices: mixed greens, pasta, and fruit salad, fire roasted sweet corn, fresh-made chili beans, corn bread, fresh-made salsa and more. Like last year, there will also be a NEW special culinary surprise! Included with the meal are complimentary wine, beer, coffee, tea and soft drinks. The feast is followed by the traditional outstanding dessert, a beautiful multi-layered birthday cake from Layers Bakery donated by Tina Del Piero and Lynn Tomlinson and decorated with fresh roses by Jackie Craghead. The cake is cut ceremoniously with the historic sword of Colonel Fitch.
La Merienda also features Master of Ceremonies David Marzetti and outstanding entertainment by local legend and accordion player extraordinaire Mike Marotta Jr. and his special guests, mariachis and folkorico dancers. The VIP Barbecue Committee is composed of local elected officials and well-known community members that prepare and serve the food at this event. Gallant dons, donas and senoritas in 18th century costumes will be the order of the day at this festive “Californio” party. There will also be a Silent Auction. All guests are also welcome to dress in 18th century costume if they wish.
Tickets
Sorry, tickets are no longer available!
At a Glance:

What:
2023 Annual La Merienda Celebration – City of Monterey’s 253rd birthday party features a BARBECUE BUFFET EXTRAVAGANZA by Old Fisherman’s Grotto Chefs and the VIP Merienda Barbecue Committee. who will create a five-star culinary experience.

When:
Saturday, June 3, 2023 from 11:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Where:
Memory Garden, 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey (Enter La Merienda at the Memory Garden Gate near the entrance to Peter B’s.)

Tickets:
MHAA members $100. Non-members $125. Sold out.

More Information:
Call 831-277-0796 or email 2023Merienda@gmail.com.

A Local Tradition
Each year since La Merienda was founded, a local young woman with connections to Monterey is chosen as La Favorita, and with her lovely court, reigns over this unique celebration of Monterey’s history. Two other young women are selected to serve as her attendants (“Doncellas”). The women who are chosen for these roles are accompanied by a chaperone (“La Duena”). These young women dress in traditional Spanish gowns and mantillas (scarfs) and greet guests, cut the birthday cake and hold court at the celebration.
The recipient of the 2022 Laura Bride Powers Award, Monterey History & Art Association’s most prestigious award, will be honored at this year’s La Merienda. This award is named after the woman who is credited with conceiving both the idea of the Association and the Merienda celebration, which antedated MHAA’s founding. Mrs. Powers was the Curator of the Custom House and First Theater and an ardent student of California history.
Community Members are invited to Host a Party Within the Party!
La Merienda can be described as a “party within a party” with uniquely decorated hosted tables. Attendees invite friends, don a costume, decorate a table, and have fun at this festive event! Local companies are encouraged to purchase a table for their staff or special customers. Or, just come for the celebration, join a table and make some new friends. Meet elected officials, military leaders, and local dignitaries at this not-to-be-missed annual event!
Sponsorships
Sponsorships are available to underwrite the cost of La Merienda. La Merienda’s valued sponsors in 2022 were Lucia Boggiatto, Charles Chrietzberg, Candyland, Cannery Row Company, Cima Colina, Coin & Treasure Shoppe, Fenton and Keller, 1st Capital Bank, Anthony Lombardo & Associates, Mission Linen, Monterey Bay Restaurant Equipment, Monterey County Bank, Nicora Law Offices, LLP, Morgan Stanley, Old Fisherman’s Grotto, Portola Hotel & Spa, Peter B’s Brewpub, and Santa Cruz County Bank.
La Merienda Barbecue CommitteeThe La Merienda Barbecue is always served by well-known community members. In past years, La Merienda Barbecue servers have included Peter Coniglio, who coordinated this part of the event in the past for over 40 years, with Chris Shake taking it on in 2015.
The 2022 Annual La Merienda Barbecue Committee included:Honorable Leon Panetta, former Secretary of Defense and Director of CIA, Congressman Jimmy Panetta, State Assemblyman Mark Stone, Monterey County Supervisor Mary Adams, Monterey County Sheriff Steve Bernal, Former Monterey County District Attorney Dean Flippo, City of Monterey Councilman Dan Albert, Jr., Former City of Monterey Mayor Dan Albert, Sr. District Attorney Jeannine Pancioni, Honorable Judge Stephanie Hulsey, City of Carmel Mayor Dave Potter and other community leaders.
About La Merienda
La Merienda (Spanish word for picnic) includes great food and entertainment, a procession, and much, much more. This not-to-be missed very special community event celebrates the founding of the City of Monterey in June 1770 when Father Junipero Serra (recently canonized as a Saint by Pope Francis) and Captain Gaspar de Portola celebrated with a picnic overlooking the Monterey Bay.
La Merienda, Monterey’s annual birthday party, is a colorful fiesta barbecue of delicious foods, wine, beer, soft drinks, gallant dons and donas, lovely senoritas, lively music and festive dance. La Merienda (the Spanish term for afternoon picnic or mid-day meal) re-enacts an elegant 18th century fiesta. It celebrates the founding of the town of Monterey on June 3, 1770 when Padre Junípero Serra, father of the California missions (now Saint Serra), and Captain Gaspar de Portola, a Spanish military leader, joined forces to establish the pueblo of Monterey, California’s first Capital. Their meeting also honored the founding of the “Royal Presidio Chapel”, which today is known as San Carlos Cathedral.
After the ceremonies that day, everyone sat down for a picnic under a large oak tree near their ship, the San Antonio, which rested in the harbor. The first modern Merienda was celebrated in 1929, two years before the formation of the Monterey History & Art Association. A ceremony at Colton Hall and a small luncheon at the Memory Garden marked the occasion. It was presided over by Carmel Martin and Harry Greene. The next year, 350 people joined Carmel Martin, who again acted as Master of Ceremonies, in the Memory Garden and once again celebrated Monterey’s birthday. The Monterey History & Art Association has celebrated this important early California historic event every year since the Association was established in 1931 (except one year during World War II).
The large rose-adorned birthday cake is carried in by local young men (“cake-bearers”), and is sliced with the sword of Colonel Roger S. Fitch, the first President of the Monterey History & Art Association.
