Celebrate 4th of July Weekend on Old Fisherman's Wharf

On July 4, 5 and 6, 2025 enjoy a visit to Old Fisherman’s Wharf which will be decked out in colorful bunting and flags all weekend for fun photo ops with lots of festive patriotic decorations.  Old Fisherman’s Wharf merchants will feature 4th of July merchant specials, including special confections at the three candy shops and a sweet fundraiser for the Veterans Transition Center at Carousel Candies described below.

Embark on a 4th of July weekend adventure on the beautiful Monterey Bay with one of the whale watching, fishing, sailing and glass bottom boat trip companies. 

About the 4th of July Celebration in America

On July 4, 2025, the United States will commemorate its 249th anniversary of independence from Great Britain. This historic milestone marks the founding of the nation, which began with the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The American Revolution, also known as the U.S. War of Independence, was fought from 1775 to 1783 and resulted in the successful struggle of 13 British colonies in North America to overthrow British rule and establish the sovereign United States of America.

A Sweet Fundraiser for the Veterans Transition Center over the July 4th Weekend

In celebration of Carousel Candies' 65th anniversary and to honor those who have served our country, Carousel Candies, a beloved family-owned candy shop on Old Fisherman’s Wharf, will donate 10% of all sales from July 4th, 5th, and 6th, 2025 to the Veterans Transition Center (VTC) of California.

In addition, customers who purchase any confection during the 4th of July holiday weekend will receive a complimentary bag of special homemade 4th of July Gourmet Salt Water Taffy, specially crafted in festive red, white, and blue colors.

“This donation is deeply personal,” said Liz Elves, co-owner of Carousel Candies. “My father was stationed in the Army at the Presidio of Monterey, which is how our family came to be here. At age 19, he rode on horseback across the Monterey Peninsula — 92 years ago. This Independence Day, we honor his legacy, thank our loyal customers, and support the veterans who have given so much to our country.”

Carousel Candies: A Sweet Spot on Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf

Nestled along the historic waterfront, Carousel Candies is more than just a candy shop — it’s a Monterey landmark and a nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages. Since opening its doors in 1960, the shop has remained a destination midway down the Wharf on the left next to Old Fisherman’s Grotto, attracting generations of guests with its whimsical pink exterior, candy-striped awning, and the scent of fresh taffy wafting through the air.

In its front window, visitors are treated to the delightful spectacle of hand-pulled saltwater taffy being stretched in full view, using a vintage machine that has become an icon in its own right. With a kaleidoscope of delightful flavors ranging from peppermint to banana, the homemade gourmet salt water taffy is a signature favorite. But Carousel Candies is also home to a wide variety of handcrafted confections, including gourmet caramel apples, peanut brittle, homemade chocolates, fudge, chocolate-covered marshmallows, and classic caramel corn made from the original 65-year-old recipe, plus many more wonderful treats for family and friends.

Family-owned and operated from the start, the shop continues to uphold its legacy of traditional candy-making and warm hospitality. “We’re so proud to still be here after 65 years, doing what we love and sharing it with generations of families who return year after year,” said Elves.

Supporting Local Veterans Through the Veterans Transition Center

Located in Marina, California, the Veterans Transition Center (VTC) has been providing critical support to Veterans throughout Monterey and San Benito Counties since 1996. Their services include housing, mental health and substance use counseling, employment assistance, an onsite food pantry and clothing closet, and comprehensive case management. The organization serves over 150 Veterans at any given time and plays a vital role in helping them overcome homelessness and achieve self-sufficiency as they reintegrate into society.

Carousel Candies invites everyone to stop by this July 4th weekend to enjoy a timeless Monterey tradition, indulge in handcrafted sweets, and support a meaningful cause that honors the spirit of the holiday. Summer hours are daily from 10 am to 10 pm.

For more information, visit carouselcandies.com.

About Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, California, is a historic waterfront attraction with a rich legacy spanning over 179 years. The oldest Wharf in California, which was established in 1845 for passenger and freight services, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is conveniently situated near Downtown Monterey, just off the Monterey Recreation Trail.

The Wharf features ten excellent restaurants, four fish markets, and seven gift shops, all highlighting the region’s cultural heritage and fresh seafood cuisine. Visitors can enjoy award-winning dining, family-friendly events, boat trips, and breathtaking views of the Monterey Bay. With both outdoor and indoor dining options, guests can savor stunning harbor views or engage in vibrant people-watching.

Wharf guests can delight in a variety of culinary offerings, from Italian cuisine and sustainable seafood to steaks and pizza, including the area’s famous clam chowder and calamari. The Wharf's three candy shops and an ice cream shop offer a wide array of treats, such as saltwater taffy, homemade chocolates, caramel apples, and cotton candy. Wildlife enthusiasts can observe cavorting and snoozing sea otters, sea lions, schools of dolphins, majestic whales, and seabirds up close. Fishing aficionados can take a fishing trip or watch locals and chartered boats bring in their daily catches.

In addition to its dining and shopping attractions, Old Fisherman’s Wharf features four whale-watching tour companies staffed with knowledgeable marine biologists and naturalists, two fishing charters, sailing excursions, and glass-bottom boat rides that explore the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

Recognized as a "Whale Watching Capital of the World," Old Fisherman's Wharf draws around 4 million visitors annually. It also served as a prominent filming location for HBO's acclaimed series, Big Little Lies, Season 1.

Whether it’s enjoying award-winning cuisine, observing marine life, or taking a scenic stroll, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Monterey, California.

Ample parking is available in the adjacent parking lot. From now to Labor Day weekend, enjoy the free MST Trolley from Downtown Monterey or Cannery Row and be dropped off at the head of the Wharf near the pink Harbor House Gifts.

For more information, visit www.montereywharf.com or call (831) 238-0777.