Locals Night on the Santa Monica Pier March 19

Published on March 11, 2026

Santa Monica Pier’s ‘Locals’ Night’ celebrates L.A. hip-hop culture on March 19 with live performances, classic cars, live art, salsa way, and Route 66 Centennial Spotlight Headline Free Community Event

The Santa Monica Pier turns up the volume on Thursday, March 19, as “Locals’ Night” returns with a powerful celebration of Los Angeles hip-hop culture, live music, art, classic cars, and community energy—all free and open to the public from 3:30 to 10 p.m.

Presented by Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, March’s edition highlights the diversity and legacy of L.A.’s independent hip-hop scene with a curated lineup by Top to Bottom LA on the Main Stage with additional entertainment and activities, and Route 66 salute:

MAIN STAGE LINEUP

The evening will be hosted from 5–9 p.m., with full stage live production running from 4-10 p.m from …

Visionaries
Matre & LA Jae – English League – Shapeshifters
The Mighty Giants
BeOND – Acid Reign – Acid Lab Records
Live Art by WOES

ADDITIONAL ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVATIONS

4–8 p.m.: Don Guapo Classic Cars – Featuring vintage vehicles and custom car culture, plus classic car flyer design art.
5–6 p.m.: Mariachi Alta– A vibrant live performance blending cultural traditions.
6–9:30 p.m.: Salsa Way at Patio 66 at Pacific Park– Free salsa lessons and open dance floor over the ocean. Select beer and wine will be available, along with a margarita special.
3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.: Books & Cookies Storytime –inside the historic Merry Go-Round Building.
Live Art Installations & Creative Pop-Ups throughout the Pier.
Community partners and activations including LA Galaxy, Neft Trailer, and more.
The HOOPBUS is expected to return with interactive basketball fun.

ROUTE 66 CENTENNIAL SPOTLIGHT

March’s “Locals’ Night” also shines a light on the “100th Anniversary of Route 66,” the legendary highway that leads directly to the Santa Monica Pier with the moniker, “The end of the road is just the beginning.” For 100 years, the most iconic road trip in America has brought travelers through Downtown Santa Monica to the Santa Monica Pier. Whether this is the start—or the grand finale—of your journey, one thing is certain: bright adventures are up ahead. Learn more at www.santamonica.com/route66

“This ‘Locals’ Night’ reflects the creativity, diversity, and cultural pulse that defines Los Angeles,” said Jim Harris, Executive Director and Historian of the Santa Monica Pier. “From hip-hop pioneers to live muralists and classic car culture, this event celebrates the artists and communities that continue to shape our city’s sound and style.”

While many enjoy the magic of “Locals’ Night” and other free events at the Pier, few realize that it’s made possible by Santa Monica Pier Corporation—a nonprofit that isn’t fully funded by the City of Santa Monica.

Presented by Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, “Locals’ Night” is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for residents to rediscover the magic of the Pier while connecting with their community. Whether dancing to live music, watching movies, shopping local artisans, or enjoying the stunning ocean views, this event is designed to bring Santa Monicans and all Angelenos together in a fun and festive outdoor setting.

FREE tickets are available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/locals-night-at-the-santa-monica-pier-tickets-1035331714027?aff=oddtdtcreator

Arrive by Rideshare, Metro, Bus or Bike, the Santa Monica Pier is located at 200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A, Santa Monica, CA 90401.

About Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier Corporation (SMPC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to preserving and enhancing the Santa Monica Pier experience for every visitor. Through impactful, location-specific programming offered year-round, SMPC ensures that the Pier remains a vibrant, world-class destination that is accessible to all. For more information on happenings at the Pier, please visit santamonicapier.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, or Threads.

About Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park, offers 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, Snackville with five fun food offerings and seaside retail shopping. Prices and operating hours are subject to change. For more information and operating hours, please call 310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram.com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.

Feature image courtesy of @santamonicapier