Twilight Dance Series at the Santa Monica Pier - Santa Monica - TravBuddy

Every summer, starting late June until August, the City of Santa Monica offers free Thursday night concerts on the SM Pier. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the balmy summer evenings at the beach with an eclectic (but friendly) group of people - ranging from romantic couples to families with children (and everyone in between). The music also varies greatly - from latin, hawaiian, rock, etc. The schedule is posted online.

Usually my friends and I don't even go onto the pier; instead we bring a picnic and stake out a spot on the sand near the pier. It's a wonderful way to spend the evening and feel a part of the community (which is a tad difficult in a city like Los Angeles) and it's FREE! :)

(7.10.08) On this evening, Jen, Sheila and I had some drinks and food at Nikki (in Venice) and then got to the SM Pier for the last leg of the salsa concert. We then finished the evening at Chloe - a teeny lounge/bar - cool ambience.

Every Thursday in the Summer, there is this FREE concert series at the Santa Monica Pier. They have some good bands come in to play and they vary every year. In past years, I have seen the Knack of "My Sharona" fame perform, for example. The Indigo Girls, Poncho Sanchez, etc. have also performed for free here. The concert starts at dusk and into the evening. There are usually 2 bands playing.

The key is to not hang out at the pier to watch the bands -- sure, you can do that but it gets really crowded. The fun of going is to actually picnic on the beach right off the pier. You can still hear the bands play (although you don't see them) while enjoying a nice meal (that you prepare or buy). Some people get very elaborate with their picnics but it is really up to you. I have seen people "mark" their picnic area by surrounding it with tea light candles. Some have set up a whole bunch of beach chairs. Some, only had picnic blankets. Whatever floats your boat. Alcohol is supposedly not permitted but I have seen people consume beer and wine during the picnic. So long as no one is too belligerent or flaunting it, no one will bother you. The crowd is very friendly and it is not uncommon to mingle with other groups.

I have seen people picnic with a large or small group of friends. I have also seen people on dates. Either way, it is a fun place to spend a Thursday night. Beware, it does get chilly at night (even though it is Summer), so make sure to bring a light jacket or sweater.