Beth Peerless, Where it’s at: Celebrating Monterey’s birthday

In celebration of the city of Monterey's 248th birthday, the Monterey History & Art Association is sponsoring its 87th premier annual event, La Merienda, Saturday from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. The long-held tradition of a festive picnic in the historic Memory Garden reenacts the original midday meal Father Junipero Serra, father of the California missions (now Saint Serra) and Captain Gaspar de Portola, a Spanish military leader, celebrated overlooking Monterey Bay at the founding of Monterey on June 3, 1770.

The annual birthday party is highly anticipated by many throughout the community. The sold-out afternoon five-star BBQ Buffet Extravaganza will have entertainment by accordionist Mike Marotta, Jr. and special guests, mariachis, folklorico dancers and the authentic costumed "Californio" party hosts and hostesses.

Local dignitaries, elected officials, and military leaders are all regular attendees, with food prepared by Old Fisherman's Grotto chefs and the VIP Merienda Barbecue Committee, headed by restaurateur Chris Shake. Several of the VIPs on the BBQ committee include Leon Panetta (former Secretary of Defense and Director of CIA), Congressman Jimmy Panetta, Monterey County Sheriff Steve Bernal, Monterey County District Attorney Dean Flippo, Monterey councilmen Dan Albert and Ed Smith, Monterey Regional Airport Director Carl Miller, and a long list of major movers and shakers, past and present.