More updates to come but here's some current information...

15th Annual Whalefest Monterey: Two-Day Symposium Highlights on April 12-13, 2025

January 17, 2025. Monterey, CA – The 15th Annual Whalefest Monterey, set for Saturday and Sunday, April 12 and 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, will feature a compelling two-day symposium at the Monterey History & Art Stanton Center, 5 Custom House Plaza adjacent to Old Fisherman’s Wharf. This highly anticipated event brings together renowned marine experts to share their knowledge, insights, and the latest research on marine ecosystems and conservation.

Symposium Speaker and Topics Include with more to come:

Jane King Silberstein, Cabrillo College; CSUMB: "The unseen and unsung heroes of Monterey Bay: the beautiful, amazing microscopic plankton!" 

Aliya Khan, Paytan Biogeochemistry Lab, UCSC “Wetlands as Nature Based Carbon Solution”

Peggy Stap, Marine Life Studies: "Whale Entanglement: Risks, Responses, and Prevention"

Ted Cheeseman, Happy Whale: "Surprising stories about our humpback whales: where do Monterey Bay whales go when they wander onward?"

James Fahlbusch, Cascadia Research Collective; Hopkins Marine Station: "A day in the life of a whale biologist"

Joelle De Weerdt, UCSC; Association ELI-S Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB): “From Nicaragua to Monterey: understand humpback whales' migratory patterns and feeding behaviours”

In addition, we have confirmed Lisa Wooninck, Superintendent of the MBNMS and Lindsey Peavey Reeves from NOAA. Details and more presenters to follow.

In addition to the Symposium, Whalefest Monterey will feature many engaging activities for all ages, including dozens of interactive marine exhibits, live music, and hands-on crafts including Gyotaku, Origami, and Scrimshaw. Visitors will also have the chance to tour research and rescue boats and enjoy the popular Abalone Races activity.

“Whalefest Monterey is an exceptional platform for marine education and awareness,” said Mary Alice Cerrito Fettis, Chair, Whalefest Monterey. “This year’s Symposium will provide a deeper dive into the critical work being done to protect our oceans and their incredible biodiversity.”

Held at Old Fisherman’s Wharf and the Custom House Plaza – Monterey State Historic Park, this free event supports local and national organizations dedicated to marine conservation and education.

For updates on speakers, exhibits, schedules, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.whalefest.org or contact [email protected].