Frequently Asked Question about the Film Independent Spirit Awards

Published on January 29, 2020

The 2020 Film Independent Spirit Awards are approaching quickly and will take place right next door to the world-famous Santa Monica Pier. This event taking place on Saturday, Feb. 8, will mark the show’s 35th anniversary celebrating and honoring some of the year’s most acclaimed films and filmmakers. Top talents from throughout the world of independent film will be recognized in a number of award categories including Best Director, Best Screenplay, and Best Feature.

From Jan. 28 to Feb. 14, the popular Lot 1 North beach parking lot adjacent to the Pier will be transformed into an extravagant award show location, complete with a tent and red carpet that will occupy the majority of the lot’s parking spaces. This might have a slight impact on the Pier’s parking and foot traffic, so we’ve put together some fast facts to help you plan your visit to the Santa Monica Pier during the weeks surrounding the Film Independent Spirit Awards.

Where is the best place to park for the Santa Monica Pier during the Spirit Awards?

During the Spirit Awards, visitors of the Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park are encouraged to arrive via public transportation or to consider parking in other Santa Monica beach lots that are also located close to the Pier. If space is available, you can pay to park directly on the Pier or in the lower lot, Lot 1 N. Short-term parking is available at 1640 Appian Way and is open from sunrise to sunset.

One of the best places to park are any of the City-owned lots. In most of these parking structures, the first 90 minutes are free. The closest one located to the Pier is located on the corner of 2nd and Colorado (just one block away from the Pier). For more parking tips and information, click here.

Where can I park to visit the beach when the Spirit Awards are happening?

There are several lots located along the beach that offer parking from sunrise to sunset. These lots are throughout the North, Central, and South Beach Zone’s. Parking rates vary so please check the City of Santa Monica Parking website for updated information.

What are the Spirit Awards?

The Film Independent Spirit Awards is the premiere award show for independent film community. 

When are the Spirit Awards?

Saturday, February 8, 2020.

Where do the Spirit Awards take place?

Santa Monica, Calif. Lot 1 North beach parking lot, located immediately north of the Santa Monica Pier at 1550 Appian Way.

Can I attend the awards ceremony?

Due to limited seating and tables, individual tickets to the Spirit Awards are exclusively offered to members of the Arts Circle – Film Independent’s annual giving group. To learn more about the Arts Circle and how to become a member, click here.

Who has been nominated for the Spirit Awards?

For a list of the 2020 Film Independent Spirit Awards categories and nominees, click here. 

Who is hosting the 2020 Spirit Awards?

Aubrey Plaza (Ingrid goes West, Legion, Parks & Recreation).

Can I watch the stars arrive on the carpet?

Yes! Ask any of the Film Independent staff located at the general entrances to direct you to the “Fan Pit”. Here, you’ll have a great view of the stars walking the carpet, but be sure to arrive early and be prepared to possibly wait in line. The “Fan Pit” is first come, first serve.

Where can I watch the Spirit Awards?

You can tune in to the live broadcast of the 2020 Film Independent Spirit Awards on IFC, Saturday, February 8 at 2:00 pm PT / 5:00 pm ET.

While there are a number of marquee events held at the Santa Monica Pier, The Spirit Awards is the only event held in Lot 1 North. Parking will return to normal after February 14th. For a full calendar view of upcoming events on the Santa Monica Pier, click here.