Santa Monica officials are considering expanding the downtown Entertainment Zone, where patrons can carry alcoholic drinks while walking outdoors. The zone could grow from its current three-block area to encompass much of downtown after showing no increase in crime.
Several Santa Monica businesses earned recognition for their environmental leadership at the Green Business Certification Awards held January 16th at the Santa Monica Family YMCA, celebrating their commitment to sustainable practices and rigorous environmental standards.
The Santa Monica Public Library selected 'What You Are Looking For Is in the Library' for its 2026 Santa Monica Reads program. The 23rd annual community-wide reading initiative will run Feb. 2 through March 14, featuring author Michiko Aoyama for discussion and signing events.
Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. has appointed Debbie Lee as its new CEO effective January 26, with a starting base salary of $318,000. Lee returns to the organization where she previously served in senior leadership for nearly eight years.
Santa Monica has completed its latest downtown improvements, including 300 California native plants at the 4th/5th Street off-ramp, clearing the 20th Street off-ramp, and sidewalk repairs near Broadway and 6th Street, part of a $60M renewal plan.
Barnes & Noble Santa Monica will host two free book talks this weekend focused on wellness and goal-setting. Debra Eckerling presents "52 Secrets for Goal-Setting" on Saturday, Jan. 24, while Dr. Portia Preston discusses "Hustle, Flow, or Let It Go?" on Sunday, Jan. 25.
Bruce Lurie Gallery in Santa Monica presents 'Typeland,' a solo exhibition by Lorenzo Marini featuring 15 paintings and immersive installations that transform typography into art. Opening January 17 at 608 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica officials have postponed implementing new parking rates at eight downtown structures until at least Jan. 27 following strong opposition from local businesses. The plan would have reduced free parking from 90 to 30 minutes, threatening membership-based businesses like gyms and studios.
Santa Monica's housing market cooled significantly in 2025, with rents falling 1.2% in November and median home prices dropping 10.5% year-over-year to $1.75 million. Only 37% of homes sold above list price as buyers gained negotiating power.
Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM, Inc.), has announced a lineup of events for the season. Celebrate the early days of spring with chess competitions, Conscious Markets, free outdoor movies, a
It is hoped that such an event could become a regular event in an attempt to alleviate the problem, which is specifically linked to the homelessness crisis.
