Category Archives: Events

Ft. Ord Mountain Bike Rides

On the first Saturday of each month, the Monterey Off Road Cycling Association (MORCA) holds organized mountain bike rides on Ft. Ord trails.  These rides are led by experienced MORCA members who have knowledge of the trails. To participate in a beginner ride, you should have done some riding on your mountain bike and be able to keep up with an easy pace for an hour or more.  If you are a more experienced mountain biker, you may be able to ride with others at an intermediate or advanced level.

Participation is free, but you need to turn in a signed waiver before the ride (see website).  You must bring a helmet, as well as your bike, and be ready to ride by 9 am.  It’s also recommended that you bring water, sunscreen and a snack with you on the ride.

The rides last two hours and may be followed by a tailgate for those who have brought food or beverage to share.  For more information, visit the First Saturday MORCA Ride webpage.  The MORCA website also provides information about other scheduled events, maps of local trails, and resources for mountain bikers.

Native Species Planting

The Habitat Stewardship Project, Monterey Bay (HSPMB), formerly known as Return of the Natives is now part of the Watershed Institute at California State University Monterey Bay. This project provides various opportunities for students and community members to participate in native habitat restoration in Monterey County, California.

You can learn more about volunteer opportunities and activities such as weekend restoration events from the HSPMB webpage. Participating in a weekend event is a fun way to meet people and get outdoors!

Marina Labor Day Parade and Festival

Memories of the Past

In the past, the City of Marina had an annual Labor Day Parade and Festival on the Saturday before Labor Day.  This parade typically included participation by a wide range of community groups and organizations and featured color guards, classic cars, marching bands, dancers, and horses.

The parade usually took place from 11 am to 12:30 pm, starting from the corner of Reservation Road and Crescent Avenue, proceeding along Reservation Road to Del Monte Boulevard, and then along Del Monte  to the Vince Dimaggio Park.

Following the parade,  there were festivities in Vince Dimaggio Park.  Over the years, these included a classic car show, a chili cook-off, live music, food trucks, a beer garden, and fun activities for kids.


Marina High School Band marching on Reservation Road during the 2016 parade
Video by Vern Fisher, Director of Photography, Monterey County Herald.