There are also vendors selling pet food, pet-care products and all manner of cat paraphernalia. The show is usually held the last week of February. This annual weeklong celebration features an international gathering of chefs and master winemakers in several locations around the Peninsula, including the Monterey Conference Center, Rancho San Carlos, and the Highlands Inn. Winery tours and tastings, cooking demonstrations, a wild mushroom hunt, and fabulous gourmet lunches and dinners highlight the event. Events include the Opening Night Extravaganza and lunchtime demos by world-famous chefs.
Reservations are highly recommended.
Events take place from the end of February to the beginning of March. This annual celebration honors the author who gave Cannery Row worldwide recognition. Free birthday cake is served at the rail car on the recreation trail below the carousel. Events include a sardine-eating contest, musical entertainment, and nostalgic exhibits on Steinbeck. Free lectures are held at the Monterey Bay Aquarium auditorium.