Happenings
UPCOMING programming & EXPERIENCES
EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY | 10AM SUNSET TOURS | MONDAY | 6PM
A Walk Through Pier History: Walking Tour
Join us for an immersive experience, as we journey through the historical landmarks that have shaped this beloved destination.
September 19, 2026
A PIERfect Benefit
Step aboard. This September, the legendary S.S. Rex returns — the infamous 1930s gambling ship that once anchored just off the pier, recreated inside the historic Merry-Go-Round building for the second annual benefit gala.
Funds raised support the Pier's free community programming as a 501(c)3 nonprofit.
THIRD THURSDAYS | SEPTEMBER - MAY |
Locals’ Night
Every Third Thursday from September to May, the Pier comes alive with a free community night packed with fun. Think local DJs, live music, art, kids activities, a classic car show, and plenty of good vibes. Experience Santa Monica like a local with this party on the Pier!
FALL 2026 & SPRING 2027
Youth Day
Youth Day is how the Pier Corp. gives back! We bring underserved kids from across LA County to the Santa Monica Pier for a day of free rides, games, and for many their very first look at the ocean.
NOVEMBER 1, 2026
Dia de los Muertos
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at the Pier on November 1 with vibrant art installations, live performances, and community altars. Enjoy mariachi, ballet folklorico, and a colorful procession honoring loved ones.
DECEMBER 1, 2026
Giving Tuesday
This #GivingTuesday, we’re rallying our community to help keep the Santa Monica Pier free, fun, and full of life! As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, the Santa Monica Pier Corporation is dedicated to preserving this beloved landmark. The Pier is more than just a destination—it’s a place where memories are made, where community thrives, and where history comes alive every single day.
FEBRUARY 2027
Month of Love
The Pier is for first-loves, best friends, "I Do's" and millions of memories, and these moments are what give the Pier its sense of magic. To celebrate Valentine’s Day and the Month of Love, we’re compiling these stories and sharing them on our website and social media pages. These stories will be available to view throughout the Month of Love, but we can’t do it without you!
APRIL 2027
Save the Pier! Play
Travel back to the 1970s and experience the true story of how a group of passionate locals banded together to save the Santa Monica Pier. This free live reenactment brings the drama, determination, and community spirit of the era to life, when the City Council had plans to tear the Pier down. From rallies to city meetings to one unforgettable grassroots movement, Save the Pier! Play tells the tale of how the Pier was saved and became the icon it is today.
JUNE 2027
Fabulous Fables
Bring the kids to a fun-filled celebration at the Santa Monica Pier’s Merry-Go-Round building, in partnership with The Crow, featuring drag queen storytelling, face painting, show-stopping dance performances, and a pride parade for everyone to join—all for FREE!
JUNE 2027
Pier 360
Dive into summer fun at Pier 360, a one-of-a-kind beach festival celebrating Santa Monica's iconic Pier with thrilling beach and ocean and beach sports, live music, festival freebies, local food vendors, and free fun for everyone!
Volunteer at the Pier
Looking for volunteer hours, a way to give back to the Santa Monica community, or hands-on event experience at one of the world's most iconic destinations? We've got a spot for you. Get behind the scenes of our self-produced events: sign up for one, or all of them.