Monterey Fisherman’s Wharf welcomes back annual whalefest

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) The annual Monterey Whalefest is back on the fisherman's wharf, this weekend.

This marks the 10th year the wharf has hosted the free event for all ages. People from all over the Central Coast come to wharf to learn more about the Monterey Bay and how to protect it.

Multiple coastal groups have set up interactive displays to teach kids about saving the ocean and marine life.

Co-author of the children's book, "Sip the Straw," is attending the event to get that message across. "It's something most people can give up. You don't need to drink out of a straw, if you're an able bodied person. That's what we have elbows for. You can tip the glass to your mouth. It just seemed like an easy way to access children. It's something they see everyday. I hope they realize that they don't need to be using that, especially after seeing the harm it does to our ocean," said co-author, Sam Keck Scoot.

The event extends into the Monterey Conference Center. Several marine science researchers will address a variety of topics pertaining to the ocean.

In addition, many whale watching tours will be offering discounted excursions.

Monterey Whalefest is happening Saturday, January 25 and Sunday, January 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.