First Night Monterey, a nonprofit arts organization, runs week-long summer art day camps for children of all ages in Monterey. Campers explore drawing, watercolor, painting, and sculpture, create a self-portrait to take home, and share their work at a Friday art show, with all supplies included. Six sessions run in June and July from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact First Night Monterey directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★Frankie Vivas2025 We usually spend New Year’s Eve in Monterey and discovered the “First Night Monterey” event while in town. Over the past two years, we’ve noticed that without a wristband, the experience along Alvarado Street stays pretty much the same—fire performers, a few food vendors, dancers, and some musicians. It’s festive but limited for those who don’t purchase admission. It would be great if they added a pop-up tent area, even charging $25 for a 10x10 vendor space, it could bring in extra revenue and enhance the atmosphere. Honestly, I ended up having more fun at the art gallery near our hotel. 2026 This year we rang in the New Year in Monterey. Rain was in the forecast, and it did end up raining. There were only a few food vendors and about two booths set up along Alvarado Street at the time we attended. We ended up leaving around 8 p.m. Aside from the rain, it felt like the event is slowly fading. Each year there seem to be fewer people, which is unfortunate because the event has real potential to fill and energize two full blocks. I even offered my DJ services at no cost to help bring some rhythm and encourage people to stay active, but I never received a response either way.
★★★★★MC LarsFirst Night Monterey was the festival I ever performed at... back in 1998. Every New Year’s Eve since, I’ve come back, and it still feels like home. This festival isn’t about fame or flash; it’s about community. You see kids, families, poets, and punks all celebrating art together. It gave me my start and still gives that same chance to the next wave. Monterey’s heartbeat is here every December 31st, and I’m proud to still be part of it.
★★★★★Diane DahmsFirst Night is a great organization that does much for Monterey County. I have been involved in several of the art camps. Staff has been great to work with and does a great job with children who have different abilities and strengths. Highly recommend it.
★Mark SarvasSeconding that Ellen is rude and harried. I don’t know why people who don’t seem to like children very much take jobs working with them but she makes no one feel especially welcome. We won’t be retuning.
★★★★★Michael SteinIf you have never been to a first night celebration you are in for a treat. First night used to be in Santa Cruz about 15 or more years ago. And held sporadically because of funding and security. I'm very happy to be sharing this event. It's going to be a sight to see. Thank you too all the hands that MAKE it possible.....HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL!