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Locals’ Night 2026 Season Finale
Published on May 8, 2026
Spring sendoff includes Rick Crocker 5K Run, Pico neighborhood storytelling, classic cars, and special Pacific Park 30th anniversary celebration
Some nights on the Santa Monica Pier just feel like summer. Thursday, May 21 is one of them, as Locals’ Night returns for its spring season finale from 3:30 to 10 p.m., bringing together live music, storytelling, classic cars, and community celebration across the Pier in one unforgettable evening—free and open to all ages.
This special edition also marks the beginning of Pacific Park’s 30th anniversary celebration, with select moments woven into the evening, including a community “thank you” tribute on the Ferris wheel and the debut of Sweet Rose Creamery for guests.
Locals’ Night Schedule — May 21
Rick Crocker 5K Run presented by Santa Monica PAL
3:30 – 5:30 p.m. | Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica Pier
Celebrating Fleet Week and honoring the legacy of Rick Crocker, this special activation features Navy and Marine Corps service members participating in the Rick Crocker 5K Run as part of Locals’ Night that includes bagpiper performance and race announcements.
Books & Cookies Musical Storytime
3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. | Merry Go-Round Building
Interactive storytelling and music for families and young guests.
The Soul of Santa Monica: Voices of the Pico Neighborhood at the Pier
5:30 – 8 p.m. | Merry Go-Round Building
A powerful community storytelling experience preserving the voices, history, and cultural legacy of the Pico neighborhood. Additional details available on the Santa Monica Pier website.
Classic Car Show & DJ Set
4 – 7 p.m. | Pier Deck
Live DJ spinning alongside a showcase of vintage cars, celebrating Southern California car culture at its finest.
Live Music Lineup
4:30 – 10 p.m. | Pier Deck
– 4:30 – 5:15 p.m. – LGNDZ
– 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. – Lesley Kernochan
– 7 – 8 p.m. – Raquel Rodriguez
– 8:30 – 10 p.m. – Tom Nolan Band
Pacific Park 30th Anniversary Moments
As part of the evening’s celebration, guests can also enjoy:
– 3:30 – 8 p.m. – Pacific Park 30th Anniversary kickoff
– 3:30 – 8 p.m. – Complimentary Sweet Rose ice cream scoop for Locals’ Night guests
– 6 p.m. – Grand Opening of Sweet Rose Creamery at Pacific Park
– Sunset to Midnight – Ferris wheel lighting tribute: “Thank You Santa Monica”
These moments reflect a shared spirit of gratitude and the ongoing legacy of the Santa Monica Pier as a community-gathering place.
Route 66 Centennial Spotlight
May’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 here.
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 sunsets and ocean views, this event is designed to bring Santa Monicans and all Angelenos together in a fun and festive outdoor setting.