Carousel Candies Celebrates 65 Years with Sweet Tribute to Veterans This 4th of July: 10% of Sales from the July 4^th Weekend to Benefit the Veterans Transition Center

Complimentary Bag of 4th of July Saltwater Taffy with Every Purchase  

In celebration of its 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 6^th, 2025 to the Veterans Transition Center (VTC) of Monterey County.

In addition, customers who purchase any confection during the 4^th 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.