Casa de Fruta New Year’s Eve: Casa de Fruta will host its traditional gala New Year’s Eve Party, Dec. 31, from 6:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Catered dinner and dancing with champagne and party favors make it an unforgettable start to the new year. With the Inn and RV Park just steps away from the activities, spend a leisurely New Year’s at Casa de Fruta without having to drive. Details: 1-800-548-3813
2013 Black and White Gala: Ridgemark Golf and Country Club will host the 2013 Black and White Gala Dec. 31, from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., for $65 a person. It includes a champagne reception at 6 p.m., a four-course dinner at 7 p.m., and music by DJ Sergio in the Diablo room with music by the Usual Suspects in the Lounge. Suggest attire black and white chic. Party is 21 and up. Reservations: 831-637-8151.
Holiday Lights: Gilroy Gardens will be open for its Holiday Lights event Dec. 26-30 from 4 to 9 p.m. General admission at the gate is $29.99 for ages 3 and up, with the holiday feast available for separate purchase. Those with ice skates can bring them to skate for free. Rental of skates is available for $9 for adults or $6 for children ages 12 and under. Details: www.gilroygardens.org.
Skating by the Bay: Celebrate the holidays amidst the scenic coastline at Ice Skating by the Bay’s seasonal ice skating rink located in Custom House Plaza behind Portola Hotel & Spa, at 4 Custom House Plaza, through Jan. 6. The rink is open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., or Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults or $10 for children 12 and under, with a skate rental fee of $3.
First Night Monterey: A community celebration of the arts on New Year’s Eve First Night is Monterey’s most exciting, imaginative and uplifting cultural event. It is an affordable, alcohol-free event that includes activites, musical entertainment and performances. Admission is $22 for adults 16 and older, $15 for kids 6-15 and free for children under 5. Details: For a schedule of events or locations to purchase buttons, visit www.firstnightmonterey.org.
