May on the Monterey Peninsula is a great time to get out and enjoy the area — the weather is warming
up, events are picking up, and we’re still a few weeks away from the busy summer season.
Here are some highlights for the month:
The first big event coming up is the Carmel Art Festival, running May 15–17 in Devendorf Park. It’s one of Carmel’s most loved traditions, bringing more than 60 plein‑air artists into the village and along the coastline. Throughout the weekend, you’ll see painters set up on sidewalks, cliffs, and courtyards capturing the scenery in real time. The festival includes quick‑draw competitions, auctions, and a lively crowd that fills downtown Carmel with a creative buzz.
Later in the month, Memorial Day weekend brings the California Roots Music & Arts Festival to the Monterey County Fair & Event Center from May 22–24. “Cali Roots” draws fans from all over the country for three days of reggae, roots, and hip‑hop, along with live mural painting, local food vendors, and a relaxed, beach‑town atmosphere.
On May 30, the Spartan Race returns to Toro Park, attracting athletes ready to tackle trail running, mud, climbs, and obstacle challenges. It’s a high‑energy day whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines, and the park becomes a hub of excitement and determination.
Beyond the scheduled events, May is simply a great month to enjoy the Peninsula. Farmers markets in Monterey, Carmel, and Pacific Grove are in full swing with spring produce and local flowers. Carmel’s monthly Art Walk offers a relaxed evening of gallery browsing and conversation. Out in nature, humpback whales are still feeding, wildflowers are blooming at Point Lobos and Garland Ranch, and Asilomar’s long spring sunsets make evening walks especially beautiful.
For homeowners and buyers, May is also a strong real estate month. Homes show well in the bright spring light, outdoor spaces are at their best, and more inventory typically comes on the market. It’s also when out‑of‑area buyers begin scouting before summer travel picks up.
There’s still plenty to enjoy this month — from art and music to outdoor adventures and simple coastal moments. May is a wonderful time to experience everything that makes the Monterey Peninsula such a special place to live.
