28 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY JULY 2-8, 2026 www.montereycountynow.com Send ideas to montereycountynow.com/events HOT PICKS Fourth of July presents a meaningful opportunity to come together, reflect and celebrate. Compass Church hosts a grand party with the county’s largest fireworks show (the Salinas Sports Complex offers excellent stadium-style viewing). The family-friendly festivities start at 3pm with bounce houses, games and rides. A patriotic service begins at 7:30pm, featuring musical performances including pianist/composer John Wineglass, and a ceremony honoring veterans and members of the military. A drone and fireworks show lights up the night sky to top it off. Happy birthday, America. [SR] 3-9:30pm Saturday, July 4. Salinas Sports Complex, 1034 N. Main St., Salinas. Free. (831) 422-7811, carodeo.com. BIG SUR VIEW Since Highway 1 reopened, several Southern Californians have come up to marvel at the spectacular beauty of Big Sur. Residents have differing thoughts about that, but one set of Los Angelinos that we’re happy to see come up is psych rock group Windows. Whether or not they’re going to drive up the windy coastline to get to Fernwood Resort for their show is up to them, but locals know it’s worth it. On a similar note, if you’re the type who foregoes fireworks in the sky for ones in your heart, then this is the performance you’ll want to be at. [SC] 10pm Saturday, July 4. Fernwood Resort, 47200 Highway 1, Big Sur. Free. Ages 21+. (831) 667-2422, fernwoodbigsur.com. Monday, July 6 GO BACH The Carmel Bach Festival officially begins on July 11 and runs for a few weeks. But let’s face it, there’s no way to cram all that great classical music into that short of a span. Fortunately, organizers have come up with a pre-festival event. Grammy-nominated countertenor Reginald Mobley performs a recital of baroque, classical and modern music to prepare us for what’s to come. And if, like some of us, you assume that countertenor is the villainous arch-enemy of tenors, it’s not like that at all. Mobley’s ability to extend into the contralto and mezzo-soprano range has impressed music critics nationwide. That’s a heady way to kick off Bach Fest. In addition to the July 6 concert, is the series titled In the Stacks, comprising free 3pm library concerts— in Monterey (July 3) and Marina (July 5). Masterclasses, also open to the public, are on July 3, 6, 7, 9 at Carmel Presbyterian Church. [DF] 7:30pm Monday, July 6. All Saints Episcopal Church, Dolores and 9th, Carmel. $45-$55. (831) 624-1521, bachfestival.org. Hot Picks by Sloan Campi, Erik Chalhoub, Dave Faries, Celia Jiménez, Pam Marino, Agata Popęda, Katie Rodriguez, Sara Rubin and Aric Sleeper. These guys are called the best The Doors tribute band. The Ultimate Doors play on Thursday, July 2 in Monterey (for details, see p. 24). The Oven Pizzeria is here to help! Whether it’s a corporate event, family gathering, or a graduation party, we’ve got the perfect pizzas to please everyone. Choose from our classic East Coast thin crust or signature West Coast sourdough for that unique slice. Let us handle the meal, so you can enjoy the time. Craving Pizza? Catering made easy visit www.TheOvenOnBroadway.com for our menu Call us at 831-899-1762 to order! Open Tuesday-Sunday: 8am-2pm & 7pm-12 midnight Friday and Saturday 7pm-2am 220 Olivier St, Monterey (831) 372-4744 and (831) 277-2531 International Culinary Professional Chef Mitra Bhatta Joins Coastal Taste Lounge Formerly known as Indian Summer proudly announces the addition of Chef Bhatta. Bringing more than a decade of culinary excellence, known for his refined techniques, dedication to quality and passion for hospitality. Chef Mitra specializes in breakfast and brunch cuisine, blending Italian fine dining with international flavors. coastaltastelounge.com HAPPY 4TH OF JULY! COME IN AFTER THE PARADE! 484 Washington St., Downtown Monterey 11:30am Mon—Fri 10am Sat & Sun melvilletav.com (831) 643-9525 scan QR code for menu INDOOR + PATIO, DINE IN and TAKEOUT WATCH ALL THE WORLD SOCCER MATCHES HERE!
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjAzNjQ1NQ==