Whalefest April 10 & 11, 2027
🐋Free community event: Marine | Art | Science | History
🐋Inspiring, educating, and empowering the public to protect and explore our Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Whalefest Monterey is an annual two-day free event on Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Custom House Plaza that draws from science, art and history to inspire, educate, and promote awareness of whales and the importance of marine ecosystems among attendees of all ages. It features exhibits from dozens of local and national non-profit organizations related to marine science, sustainability of land and sea, and the environment. Over the years, Whalefest Monterey has received national and international coverage from the media. The event is highly respected by marine scientists and thousands of attendees who want to learn about and protect our oceans. All activities and programs are financed through grants, sponsorships and individual donations, and produced by a small army of dedicated volunteers. We thank you for considering supporting our Whalefest Monterey program, which each year includes the following:
THE SYMPOSIUM:
Whalefest Monterey features a Symposium where world-renowned scientists share their latest marine science research with the general public. Symposium speakers also cover other topics, such as the history of the local fishing culture. ART, HISTORY & MUSIC ACTIVIES:
Whalefest Monterey includes demonstrations of the ancient Japanese art of Gyotaku (a traditional method of printing images of fish), whale origami, and the Portuguese whalers’ art of scrimshaw, all of which played an important role in Monterey history. In addition, there are local history walks and the “world famous” abalone races. We usually have several research and Coast Guard vessels on display, and some are open for tours. The event also features an outstanding array of live music and dance; most notable is the “Orca-stra” which combines original music by Nicholas Fettis on keyboards with locally recorded humpback whale songs – a true meeting of art and science!
