Events in Santa Monica
Find the best events in Santa Monica happening this weekend and beyond — from live concerts at the Santa Monica Pier and the beloved farmers market to community festivals, free outdoor movies, and more. Updated regularly from official local sources.
Events Today in Santa Monica
What's happening in Santa Monica today.
No events specifically listed for today. Check the weekend and weekly sections below, or browse things to do in Santa Monica.
Events This Weekend in Santa Monica
Live events happening this Saturday and Sunday.
No specific weekend events in the live feed right now — but the recurring events below happen every weekend!
Events This Week in Santa Monica
Everything happening in the next 7 days.
No specific events found in the live feed this week. The recurring events below happen year-round.
Free Events in Santa Monica
These events are free to attend — no tickets required.
Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market (Wednesday)
Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market (Saturday)
Main Street Sunday Farmers Market
Twilight Concert Series on the Santa Monica Pier
Live Music at the Third Street Promenade
Summer Soulstice Festival on Main Street
4th of July Parade on Main Street
MAINopoly: A Community Event on Main Street
Montana Avenue Art Walk
Live Music in Santa Monica
Concerts, performances, and listening rooms.
Family Events in Santa Monica
Kid-friendly events and activities.
Santa Monica Pier Events
Events happening on and around the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Santa Monica Farmers Markets
Three weekly markets offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts.
Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market (Wednesday)
Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market (Saturday)
Main Street Sunday Farmers Market
Arts & Culture Events
Theater, art walks, and performing arts in Santa Monica.
Annual Santa Monica Festivals
Plan your visit around one of these beloved annual events.
MAINopoly
May
A fun neighborhood scavenger hunt and community event along Main Street.
Summer Soulstice
June
A massive free outdoor festival on Main Street celebrating music, wellness, and community.
4th of July Parade
July 4th
A beloved Main Street parade tradition drawing thousands of spectators each year.
Twilight Concert Series
July–August
Free Thursday evening concerts on the Santa Monica Pier.
Santa Monica Classic
September
Annual 5K/10K road race through the city streets, one of LA's most popular.
Montana Avenue Art Walk
Annual
Local galleries and boutiques open their doors for a neighborhood celebration of art.
ICE at Santa Monica
Nov–Jan
Seasonal outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of downtown for the holidays.
More Upcoming Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Santa Monica have a farmers market?
Yes! Santa Monica has one of the best farmers markets in California. The Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market runs every Wednesday from 8:30am–1:30pm and every Saturday from 8am–1pm on Arizona Avenue. There is also a Sunday market on Main Street from 9:30am–1:30pm in Ocean Park.
Are there free events in Santa Monica?
Absolutely. Many of Santa Monica's best events are completely free, including the Twilight Concert Series at the Pier every Thursday evening in July and August, live street music performances along the Third Street Promenade on most weekends, and all three weekly farmers markets.
What events happen at the Santa Monica Pier?
The Santa Monica Pier hosts a variety of events year-round. The most popular is the free Twilight Concert Series every Thursday evening in July and August. The Pier also hosts New Year's Eve celebrations, holiday events, and various community gatherings throughout the year. Pacific Park on the Pier operates daily with rides and attractions.
When is the Twilight Concert Series in Santa Monica?
The Twilight Concert Series takes place every Thursday evening in July and August at the Santa Monica Pier, typically starting at 7:00pm. Admission is always free and the concerts draw large, enthusiastic crowds. Arrive early to get a good spot on the pier deck.
Attending an Event?
Stay at the SureStay Santa Monica — walking distance from the Pier, Promenade, and Farmers Market. Book a hotel for this weekend.
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Official Event Sources
Learn about our editorial standards and how we select recommendations.
Local Tips & Editorial Notes
Local Insider Tips
- →The Wednesday Downtown Farmers Market (8:30 AM - 1:30 PM) is the largest weekly event in Santa Monica and is free to attend.
- →Twilight Concert Series at the Pier runs Thursday evenings in July and August — arrive early for parking and a good spot.
- →Check the official sources at the bottom of this page for the most up-to-date event information.
How Long to Spend
Varies by event
Coming for an Event?
Find a Santa Monica hotel within walking distance of the Pier, Promenade, and event venues.