Oh, the weather outside is frightful…oh wait, it’s not because this is Carmel.

So, in that case join us in the month of December for visions of sugar plums, dreidel spinning, music and plenty of good tidings! 

Holiday lights in Devendorf Park, the Ocean Avenue Medians, and around town will be lit starting Friday of Thanksgiving week. (See more below about the Holiday Tree Lighting.) 

City of Carmel Annual Tree and Menorah Lightings

Friday, December 6, 2024 in Devendorf Park and Ocean Ave.

3:30 p.m. Santa Claus will arrive via Fire Truck while the reindeer rest up for their big night and the Del Monte Brass will be there to add a festive air. 

4-4:30 p.m. Menorah lighting Ceremony with plenty of gelt and dreidel spinning and singing. 

4:30-5:30 p.m. Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony with MC Ben beesley and featuring performances by: Carmel Dance Center, River School Choir, Carmel High School Chamber Singers, I Cantori, Jo Todd, Miles Williams, and Debbie Davis. 

The Holiday Tree will be lit at 5:30 p.m. or very soon thereafter! 

Ocean Ave. between Junipero Ave. and Mission Street will be closed from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

Carmel Plaza’s Holiday Open House

Friday, December 6, 2024  from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Carmel Plaza 

After the festivities in the Park hop on over to the Carmel Plaza for live music and entertainment, delectable treats, in-store promotions, and children’s activities. 

And, if you missed your chance in see Santa in the Park and tell him all of your Christmas wishes never fear – he will be over at the Plaza too :) 

Sunset Center’s Annual Community Holiday Party

Wednesday, December 18, 2024 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at Sunset Center

The holiday fun continues at Sunset Center with live entertainment by Monterey Jazz Festival All-Stars Students and free professional photos with Santa and the gorgeous Christmas Tree. Food and drinks will also be available. 

The Holly jolliness continues at 4:00 p.m. with a Live Stream of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s popular “Big Band Holidays” show. Hope to see you there!