What is Whalefest Monterey?

Whalefest Monterey is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, founded in 2024.  EIN 35-2863458.

Whalefest Monterey’s launched more than 15 years ago and has been spreading its mission and passion for Monterey Bay, marine life, and whales ever since.

Whalefest Monterey is an annual two-day free event on Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Custom House Plaza that draws from science, art and history to inspire, educate, and promote awareness of whales and the importance of marine ecosystems among attendees of all ages. It features exhibits from dozens of local and national non-profit organizations related to marine science, sustainability of land and sea, and the environment.

Over the years, Whalefest Monterey has received national and international coverage from the media. The event is highly respected by marine scientists and thousands of attendees who want to learn about and protect our oceans. All activities and programs are financed through grants, sponsorships and individual donations, and produced by a small army of dedicated volunteers. We thank you for considering supporting our Whalefest Monterey program, which each year includes the following:

The Symposium

Whalefest Monterey features a Symposium where world-renowned scientists share their latest marine science research with the general public. Symposium speakers also cover other topics, such as the history of the local fishing culture. Presentations are posted on Whalefest Monterey’s YouTube Channel.

Art, History and Music Activities

Whalefest Monterey includes demonstrations of the ancient Japanese art of Gyotaku (a traditional method of printing images of fish), whale origami, and the Portuguese whalers’ art of scrimshaw, all of which played an important role in Monterey history. In addition, there are local history walks and the “world famous” abalone races.  We usually have several research and Coast Guard vessels on display, and some are open for tours. The event also features an outstanding array of live music and dance; most notable is the “Orca-stra” which combines original music by Nicholas Fettis on keyboards with locally recorded humpback whale songs – a true meeting of art and science!

Attendance

It is impossible to count the actual number of attendees, but there is always a large crowd filling the Wharf and Custom House Plaza during the event. We do attempt to survey as many attendees as possible, which yields some demographic data: In 2024, about 50% of attendees traveled from outside of Monterey – including about 10% from out of state or international – with most spending three or more days here exploring the area and boosting the local economy.  Attendees also include youth from underserved communities, including science students from South Monterey County, Salinas and Seaside, as well as local youth who are in foster care.

Recognition

Whalefest Monterey was recognized by California Senator John Laird in 2023 and 2024, and by California Assembly Representative Dawn Addis in 2023, for its dedication in advocating for our Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.  In 2022, we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the creation of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. In 2021, Whalefest Monterey and its founder and Chair, Mary Alice Fettis, received the Sea Star Award for Education from the Monterey Chapter of the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation.