Monterey County Gives Starts Today!
Our Big Idea – Kindness Lights the Night
One community. Thousands of acts of kindness. One unforgettable celebration.
The Concept: First Night Monterey will spend the entire year inviting residents of every age, culture, neighborhood and ability to create art inspired by kindness. People won’t just attend First Night – they’ll build it. Through community murals, handprints, public art, neighborhood workshops, school projects and storytelling, thousands of Monterey County residents become artists and contributors.
Then, on New Year’s Eve, every community comes together to see itself reflected in one giant celebration. Instead of watching the arts – People become the arts.
Buttons on Sale at Early Bird Prices!
Your First Night Monterey Button is your all-access pass!
- 15+ venues and 50+ performances from 3 PM to midnight
- All indoor and outdoor entertainment
- Hands-on art stations and creative fun
- The lively Twilight Procession
- The Countdown-to-Midnight Finale Performance!
That’s nine hours of art, music, dance, and nonstop New Year’s fun! Your button purchase helps First Night Monterey bring the best performers and experiences to our community.
Early Bird prices end December 14, 2026.
Volunteer Sign-Up For FNM 2027 - Get Involved!
Be a part of First Night! Artful activities are on-going now through the new year as we produce First Night Monterey. First Night volunteers last year included teens, military personnel, retirees, service organizations and community members just like you! Volunteers working 4+ hours on New Year's eve earn a free admission button! You can help! It would be impossible to produce FNM without the hundreds of volunteers. Volunteer individually or as part of a group!
Students: Build up your community service hours; volunteer in a fun and creative environment! Expand your resumé with relevant experience; service learning hours are available.
Volunteer Sign-Up for the AT&T Pro-Am
Help raise funds for First Night Monterey! First Night will be manning the 15th Hole Concession Booth on the Pebble Beach Golf Links during the AT & T Pro-Am February 4–7, 2027. Morning and afternoon shifts are available. Sign up early to get your preferred shift.
Volunteer to raise much-needed money for First Night Monterey!
CSUMB Student Designs for FNM 2027!
CSUMB students have submitted their posters for judging with the theme "Color the Night!"
First Night Monterey staff collaborates closely with CSUMB's Service Learning class, which provides students with valuable hands-on experience in publication design while contributing to the promotion and success of First Night Monterey's annual event.
This year's winner is Amanda Richman. Amanda is a Communication Design major with a concentration in Visual Design at CSUMB. Amanda grew up in Davis, CA, where her passion for art and love of nature blossomed. She enjoys exploring her local ecosystem, hanging out with her cat, and embracing the whimsical side of things.
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