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Santa Monica, California, is not just known for its beautiful beaches and world-class shopping; the city also boasts a vibrant calendar of events that cater to all interests—whether you’re a foodie, a culture lover, or someone seeking outdoor activities. In 2024, Santa Monica is set to host a wide variety of events that will delight both locals and visitors alike. From art exhibitions to music festivals and community celebrations, here’s a look at some of the must-attend Events happening in Santa Monica this year.
1. Santa Monica Farmers Market (Year-Round)
Santa Monica's Farmers Markets are a year-round highlight for locals and visitors. Held three times a week, these markets offer fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal products, and gourmet food from local vendors. The markets are a fantastic place to enjoy live music, meet local farmers, and sample delicious food.
Main Market: Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2640 Main Street
Organic Market: Sundays at 2640 Main Street
These events offer more than just groceries—they also provide an opportunity to experience the community spirit of Santa Monica, with plenty of family-friendly activities, food samples, and cooking demos.
2. Santa Monica Pier Twilight Concert Series (Summer)
One of the most iconic events in Santa Monica, the Twilight Concert Series brings live music to the iconic Santa Monica Pier every summer. This free outdoor concert series has become a favorite tradition, attracting music lovers from all over. The concerts feature a diverse range of genres, from indie rock to Latin music, jazz, and electronic beats.
Location: Santa Monica Pier
Dates: Thursday evenings from July to September
Bring a blanket, grab some food from nearby food trucks, and enjoy a spectacular sunset backdrop while listening to talented musicians perform on the beach. The event is family-friendly and perfect for those who want to soak in the Santa Monica vibe while enjoying great music.
3. The L.A. Art Show (February 2024)
For art enthusiasts, The L.A. Art Show is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Held annually at the Los Angeles Convention Center, this event is just a short drive from Santa Monica and features a wide range of contemporary and modern art from artists all over the world. The show also includes live performances, installations, and panel discussions, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the global art scene.
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center (nearby Santa Monica)
Dates: February 2024
While this event takes place just outside Santa Monica, its proximity and the sheer scope of the artworks on display make it a great event for visitors staying in the area.
4. Santa Monica Conservancy Walking Tours (Year-Round)
For those interested in history and architecture, the Santa Monica Conservancy Walking Tours offer a fascinating look into the city’s past. The tours explore Santa Monica’s historic landmarks, including its iconic Art Deco buildings, early 20th-century homes, and the picturesque streets that have shaped the city's unique character.
Location: Various historic locations around Santa Monica
Dates: Year-round, typically on weekends
These guided walking tours provide a unique insight into the history of Santa Monica, and are an excellent way to explore the city’s architectural heritage while learning from knowledgeable local guides.
5. Santa Monica History Museum Events (Year-Round)
The Santa Monica History Museum regularly hosts exhibits, lectures, and events that explore the city’s rich cultural and historical past. In 2024, the museum will continue to offer educational programming, including special exhibitions, film screenings, and presentations on the city’s history.
Location: 1350 7th Street, Santa Monica
Dates: Year-round
Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Santa Monica’s roots, the museum’s events provide an engaging way to connect with the city’s past.
6. Santa Monica Restaurant Week (March 2024)
Santa Monica is known for its diverse and upscale culinary scene, and Santa Monica Restaurant Week celebrates the city’s best eateries. In March 2024, over 30 of Santa Monica’s top restaurants will offer special prix-fixe menus, allowing food lovers to experience high-end dining at a fraction of the usual price. This week-long event is perfect for those looking to explore the city’s diverse dining options.
Location: Various restaurants across Santa Monica
Dates: March 2024 (specific dates to be announced)
From upscale fine dining to casual cafes and trendy new eateries, Restaurant Week is the perfect way to indulge in Santa Monica’s renowned food scene.
7. The Santa Monica Film Festival (June 2024)
Celebrating the world of cinema, the Santa Monica Film Festival is an exciting event for movie lovers, filmmakers, and industry professionals. The festival showcases independent films across various genres, including documentaries, short films, and feature-length films, and provides a platform for emerging filmmakers to share their work.
Location: Various venues in Santa Monica
Dates: June 2024
Attendees can enjoy screenings, panel discussions, and networking events, making it an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in film to connect with like-minded individuals.
8. Venice Beach Eco Festival (April 2024)
While not technically in Santa Monica, the Venice Beach Eco Festival is a short drive away and a great event for anyone interested in sustainability, green living, and environmental causes. This free festival celebrates eco-friendly lifestyles with workshops, food vendors, live music, and educational programs about living sustainably.
Location: Venice Beach (close to Santa Monica)
Dates: April 2024
It’s an excellent event for those looking to learn more about environmental issues and explore ways to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
9. The Santa Monica Festival (May 2024)
The Santa Monica Festival is a family-friendly event that celebrates the city’s vibrant culture, sustainability, and community spirit. Held in May, the festival features live entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors, sustainability workshops, and a series of activities aimed at both children and adults. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a day of fun in the sun with the whole family.
Location: Clover Park, Santa Monica
Dates: May 2024
This lively festival showcases the creative energy of Santa Monica and promotes environmental consciousness in a fun and interactive way.
10. Halloween on the Pier (October 2024)
A favorite annual event, Halloween on the Pier is an exciting celebration for both kids and adults. The Santa Monica Pier transforms into a spooky yet fun destination, with Halloween-themed games, activities, and entertainment. Expect costume contests, trick-or-treating, and live performances throughout the day, making it a great way to enjoy Halloween in one of the most scenic locations in Southern California.
Location: Santa Monica Pier
Dates: October 2024
This event is perfect for families looking to enjoy a safe and exciting Halloween experience on the beach.
Conclusion
Santa Monica’s event calendar is packed with diverse activities and festivals that draw on the city’s artistic, culinary, and community-focused spirit. Whether you’re looking to explore the local history, indulge in delicious food, or enjoy live music with a view of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica offers something for everyone. Mark your calendar for these exciting events, and don’t miss the chance to experience everything this beautiful beachside city has to offer in 2024!
1. Santa Monica Farmers Market (Year-Round)
Santa Monica's Farmers Markets are a year-round highlight for locals and visitors. Held three times a week, these markets offer fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal products, and gourmet food from local vendors. The markets are a fantastic place to enjoy live music, meet local farmers, and sample delicious food.
Main Market: Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2640 Main Street
Organic Market: Sundays at 2640 Main Street
These events offer more than just groceries—they also provide an opportunity to experience the community spirit of Santa Monica, with plenty of family-friendly activities, food samples, and cooking demos.
2. Santa Monica Pier Twilight Concert Series (Summer)
One of the most iconic events in Santa Monica, the Twilight Concert Series brings live music to the iconic Santa Monica Pier every summer. This free outdoor concert series has become a favorite tradition, attracting music lovers from all over. The concerts feature a diverse range of genres, from indie rock to Latin music, jazz, and electronic beats.
Location: Santa Monica Pier
Dates: Thursday evenings from July to September
Bring a blanket, grab some food from nearby food trucks, and enjoy a spectacular sunset backdrop while listening to talented musicians perform on the beach. The event is family-friendly and perfect for those who want to soak in the Santa Monica vibe while enjoying great music.
3. The L.A. Art Show (February 2024)
For art enthusiasts, The L.A. Art Show is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Held annually at the Los Angeles Convention Center, this event is just a short drive from Santa Monica and features a wide range of contemporary and modern art from artists all over the world. The show also includes live performances, installations, and panel discussions, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the global art scene.
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center (nearby Santa Monica)
Dates: February 2024
While this event takes place just outside Santa Monica, its proximity and the sheer scope of the artworks on display make it a great event for visitors staying in the area.
4. Santa Monica Conservancy Walking Tours (Year-Round)
For those interested in history and architecture, the Santa Monica Conservancy Walking Tours offer a fascinating look into the city’s past. The tours explore Santa Monica’s historic landmarks, including its iconic Art Deco buildings, early 20th-century homes, and the picturesque streets that have shaped the city's unique character.
Location: Various historic locations around Santa Monica
Dates: Year-round, typically on weekends
These guided walking tours provide a unique insight into the history of Santa Monica, and are an excellent way to explore the city’s architectural heritage while learning from knowledgeable local guides.
5. Santa Monica History Museum Events (Year-Round)
The Santa Monica History Museum regularly hosts exhibits, lectures, and events that explore the city’s rich cultural and historical past. In 2024, the museum will continue to offer educational programming, including special exhibitions, film screenings, and presentations on the city’s history.
Location: 1350 7th Street, Santa Monica
Dates: Year-round
Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Santa Monica’s roots, the museum’s events provide an engaging way to connect with the city’s past.
6. Santa Monica Restaurant Week (March 2024)
Santa Monica is known for its diverse and upscale culinary scene, and Santa Monica Restaurant Week celebrates the city’s best eateries. In March 2024, over 30 of Santa Monica’s top restaurants will offer special prix-fixe menus, allowing food lovers to experience high-end dining at a fraction of the usual price. This week-long event is perfect for those looking to explore the city’s diverse dining options.
Location: Various restaurants across Santa Monica
Dates: March 2024 (specific dates to be announced)
From upscale fine dining to casual cafes and trendy new eateries, Restaurant Week is the perfect way to indulge in Santa Monica’s renowned food scene.
7. The Santa Monica Film Festival (June 2024)
Celebrating the world of cinema, the Santa Monica Film Festival is an exciting event for movie lovers, filmmakers, and industry professionals. The festival showcases independent films across various genres, including documentaries, short films, and feature-length films, and provides a platform for emerging filmmakers to share their work.
Location: Various venues in Santa Monica
Dates: June 2024
Attendees can enjoy screenings, panel discussions, and networking events, making it an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in film to connect with like-minded individuals.
8. Venice Beach Eco Festival (April 2024)
While not technically in Santa Monica, the Venice Beach Eco Festival is a short drive away and a great event for anyone interested in sustainability, green living, and environmental causes. This free festival celebrates eco-friendly lifestyles with workshops, food vendors, live music, and educational programs about living sustainably.
Location: Venice Beach (close to Santa Monica)
Dates: April 2024
It’s an excellent event for those looking to learn more about environmental issues and explore ways to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
9. The Santa Monica Festival (May 2024)
The Santa Monica Festival is a family-friendly event that celebrates the city’s vibrant culture, sustainability, and community spirit. Held in May, the festival features live entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors, sustainability workshops, and a series of activities aimed at both children and adults. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a day of fun in the sun with the whole family.
Location: Clover Park, Santa Monica
Dates: May 2024
This lively festival showcases the creative energy of Santa Monica and promotes environmental consciousness in a fun and interactive way.
10. Halloween on the Pier (October 2024)
A favorite annual event, Halloween on the Pier is an exciting celebration for both kids and adults. The Santa Monica Pier transforms into a spooky yet fun destination, with Halloween-themed games, activities, and entertainment. Expect costume contests, trick-or-treating, and live performances throughout the day, making it a great way to enjoy Halloween in one of the most scenic locations in Southern California.
Location: Santa Monica Pier
Dates: October 2024
This event is perfect for families looking to enjoy a safe and exciting Halloween experience on the beach.
Conclusion
Santa Monica’s event calendar is packed with diverse activities and festivals that draw on the city’s artistic, culinary, and community-focused spirit. Whether you’re looking to explore the local history, indulge in delicious food, or enjoy live music with a view of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica offers something for everyone. Mark your calendar for these exciting events, and don’t miss the chance to experience everything this beautiful beachside city has to offer in 2024!