Lauren Fitzpatrick of Carmel Valley dances in a celebration hat she made at the event. (Herald Archive/David Royal)
CREATED AS AN ALTERNATIVE to booze-fueled celebrations on New Years Eve, First Night Monterey has become a holiday tradition that never grows stale.

Cast about 25 performances sites throughout historic downtown Monterey, the event is a showcase for local talent ranging from top-flight modern rock bands to the neighborhood dance studio.

This year's celebration, which starts at 3 p.m., will have a decidedly nautical feel, withits "A FantaSea" theme. The early hours of the festival offer plenty of activities to keep kids active, including the requisite face painting and henna tattoo artists — but also a puppet theater, folk music and magic shows.

The traditional parade down Alvarado Street kicks off the festivities in earnest

The Shinsho Mugen Daiko taiko drum group performs during last year's First Night Monterey. (Herald Archive/David Royal)
at 5:30 p.m. And the grand finale starts at 11:15 p.m.

Best of all, admission is more than affordable. Buy adult admission buttons in advance for only $15 through Dec. 10, or $20 through Dec. 30, or $10 and $12, respectively, for children. They're on sale throughout Monterey County, including Safeway stores. Family pack specials are also available online.

For more information, see www.firstnightmonterey.org.

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