Central Coast - California - page 1143

Monterey's oldest surf shop rents and sells all the surfing gear you'll need. Staff
grudgingly dole out local tips.
Festivals & Events
Castroville Artichoke Festival FOOD
( www.artichoke-festival.org )
Head north of Monterey for 3D 'agro art' sculptures, cooking demos, a farmers market and
field tours in May or June.
Blues, Brews & BBQ FOOD, MUSIC
( www.bluesbrewsandbarbecue.com )
Rockin' bands, California craft beers and barbecue-pit masters at the county fairgrounds in
late July.
Strawberry Festival at Monterey Bay FOOD
( www.mbsf.com )
Berry-licious pie-eating contests and live bands in Watsonville, north of Monterey, in early
August.
Monterey County Fair CARNIVAL, FOOD
( www.montereycountyfair.com )
Old-fashioned fun, carnival rides, horse-riding and livestock competitions, wine tasting
and live music in late August and early September.
Monterey Jazz Festival MUSIC
( www.montereyjazzfestival.org )
One of the world's longest-running jazz festivals (since 1958) showcases big-name head-
liners over a long weekend in mid-September.
Monterey Bay Birding Festival OUTDOORS