Santa Monica Year-Round Festivals and Events Calendar - Santa Monica - 1

Santa Monica hosts a rich variety of events and festivals throughout the year for a small city.

Thanks to the mild weather, outdoor events are possible year-round, and the city consistently offers programs that both residents and tourists can enjoy. If you want to blend into the neighborhood community after moving in, these events are a great starting point.

The highlight of summer is the Twilight Concert Series. From June to September, free outdoor concerts take place every Thursday evening on the Santa Monica Pier.

Featuring a range of genres including pop, jazz, Latin, world music, and rock, this event attracts thousands of attendees each week and is a signature summer event in Santa Monica. Experiencing music while watching the Pacific Ocean at sunset is something that's hard to enjoy unless you live here. Admission is free, so it's best to bring a blanket and some snacks to secure a good spot early.

The Farmers Market operates in various locations throughout the week and on weekends. The downtown Farmers Market, held on Arizona Avenue every Wednesday and Saturday, is the largest, offering fresh organic vegetables and fruits, locally produced foods, flowers, and handmade goods.

Many Korean residents also stop by to purchase fresh ingredients. While it's not large, there are many high-quality products available, and plenty of tasting opportunities.

In spring, the Festival of the Kite takes place at Clover Park. This family-friendly event features colorful kites filling the sky, making it a great outing for families with children. Participants start filling the park early on weekend mornings. Kite-making workshops and various booths are also available.

Santa Monica also connects local artists and galleries to residents through the ArtWalk event. The Bergamot Station area is a complex of art galleries, bustling with people during opening events or special exhibitions.

The Fiesta de las Americas is a Latin cultural festival that celebrates multicultural communities with food, music, and dance performances.

The Santa Monica events schedule is regularly updated on the city's official website (santamonica.gov) and through local media.

Actively participating in these neighborhood events early after moving in can help you get to know your neighbors and quickly integrate into the local community.