The community's favorite monthly tradition returns to Santa Monica Pier on Thursday, Oct. 16, from 3:30 to 10 p.m., featuring a community pep rally with local high schools and honoring the 71st anniversary of Playland Arcade.
Presented by Pacific Park and Playland Arcade, this "Third Thursday at the Pier" event unites the local community with free, family-friendly programming including live music, student performances, car club displays, interactive booths and beachside dancing.
The main stage, hosted by Santa Monica High School's ASB student leaders, will feature performances from 4-9:30 p.m. Highlights include Santa Monica High Jazz Combo, St. Monica Prep and Elementary student performances, and the Santa Monica High Pep Squad. Guest speaker Tony Todd, featured in the recent Netflix Charlie Sheen documentary, will recognize the homecoming court and present a ceremonial check to the Santa Monica Education Foundation.
Evening performances include Westside Crew from 7-8 p.m. and La Compañia closing with Latin soul from 8:30-9:30 p.m.
The main parking deck will showcase a Classic Car Club display, DJ Devil-Los spinning nostalgic vibes, Santa Monica Clubs booths and Paint:Lab creative activities from 5-8 p.m.
Carousel activities from 3:30-5 p.m. include Books & Cookies Musical Story Time and a Heal the Bay Education Station, plus interactive booths from Playland Arcade and other organizations.
Playland Arcade's 71st anniversary will be celebrated throughout the night with throwback games, tokens and surprises. The SM Pier Corp Donation Flash Match will benefit the Santa Monica Education Foundation, doubling donations to support local students.
"Locals' Night is our way of saying: the Pier belongs to the people," said Jim Harris, executive director and historian of Santa Monica Pier. "Whether you're a student cheering for your school, a neighbor stopping by after work, or someone who grew up playing games at Playland Arcade, this is your moment."
Free tickets are available at:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/locals-night-at-the-santa-monica-pier-tickets-1035331714027
Edited by SMDP Staff