THERE'S PLENTY OF NOSTALGIA... when it comes to our classic Christmas celebrations, but quite often the ye-olde-ness found in the decorations and foods and entertainment choices don't quite match up to the place where we live and its distinctive history. One venerable festivity that is both quite ye-olde-y in tone and focus and also highly local happens each year in Monterey, in none other than some of the city's oldest structures. We are, of course, talking about the beautiful earthen buildings found not far from the ocean, the adobes that have thousands of tales to tell, tales that stretch back centuries. History mavens around the area, and beyond, gather at these atmospheric, walk-inside jewels each December to enjoy a seasonal to-do that is far more Monterey in feel than a standard soiree, one that is lovely and nice but lacking in the touches specific to the peninsula. If you'd like to hear music, stroll, and soak in the atmosphere at such a glow-filled gathering, make for Monterey on...
FRIDAY, DEC. 8 AND SATURDAY, DEC. 9... when Christmas in the Adobes returns. The hours are 5 to 9 p.m. each day, and an adult ticket is $25 (find them for purchase at the Custom House Gift Shop or Pacific House Museum if you want to buy them on the night of the event). You'll encounter interesting exhibits, seasonal treats, bagpipes played live, and "fandango lessons at the Custom House," as well as many people in the apparel of 19th-century Monterey. How many spots are there to admire? Some 23 in all. For all of the details on this delightful and important to-do, one that weaves memory, merriment, and that Monterey spirit into the reverent goings-on, visit the California Department of Parks and Recreation site now.
