What if you could spend a Saturday evening dancing to live DJs, exploring a huge food night market, and enjoying a lively street festival just minutes from the Pacific Ocean—without paying an admission fee?
That’s exactly what’s coming to downtown Santa Monica this November.
Santa Monica Block Fest 2026 returns on Saturday, November 14, with a special Friendsgiving Edition that will transform all three blocks of Third Street Promenade into an open-air celebration.
The event features multiple music stages, more than 20 food vendors, a shopping village, pop-up bars, and entertainment throughout the evening.
And the best part? Admission is completely free!
Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, looking for free things to do in Los Angeles, or simply want to explore Santa Monica after dark, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Santa Monica Block Fest 2026?
Santa Monica Block Fest is a recurring outdoor music and cultural festival held on Third Street Promenade in downtown Santa Monica.
The festival brings together DJs, musicians, food vendors, local businesses, and visitors for a lively community celebration.
The November event is called Santa Monica Block Fest Vol. IX and features a special Friendsgiving theme.
Instead of a traditional sit-down Thanksgiving celebration, this event encourages people to gather with friends, enjoy music, discover food, and explore the city.
The festival is presented in collaboration with the City of Santa Monica and Downtown Santa Monica, Inc.
It is part of a monthly festival series taking place on the second Saturday of each month through December 2026.
Also Read: Yokohama Japanese Festival 2026: Free Sumo Wrestling, Taiko Drumming & Japanese Culture in San Diego
Santa Monica Block Fest 2026: Date, Time and Location
Here are the official details for the November Friendsgiving celebration.
| Event information | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Santa Monica Block Fest Vol. IX |
| Theme | Friendsgiving Edition |
| Date | Saturday, November 14, 2026 |
| Festival hours | 5 PM–12 AM |
| Road closures begin | 2 PM |
| Location | Third Street Promenade |
| Address | 1400 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401 |
| Admission | Free |
| Age requirement | All ages |
| Main attractions | Live DJs, food night market, vendor village, multiple stages |
| Organizer | Santa Monica Block Fest |
The festival takes over all three blocks of Third Street Promenade.
Visitors should expect larger crowds, street closures, and additional traffic around downtown Santa Monica.
7 Exciting Things to Experience at Santa Monica Block Fest
1. Enjoy Live DJs and Multiple Music Stages
Live music is one of the biggest attractions at Santa Monica Block Fest.
The festival features several stages curated by YAPPY STUDIOS, Beat Repeat, and other collaborators.
Visitors can explore different music areas and enjoy performances throughout the evening.
The announced lineup includes:
- Sommer Ray
- Matt Steffanina
- Anaya
- The Botanist
- Devin Lucien
- Tiedye
- Izy and Twee
- Superwavy
- Hamoudie
- Krazy
The individual performance times may vary, so check the official event listing for the latest updates.
2. Explore a Huge Food Night Market
Come hungry because food is a major part of the Friendsgiving celebration.
The event includes a food night market featuring more than 20 vendors.
Visitors can explore different food options from local Los Angeles restaurants and vendors.
The food market is scheduled to operate from 5 PM until midnight.
Food purchases are separate from free festival admission.
Special Friendsgiving food passes are also advertised for purchase.
3. Shop at the Outdoor Vendor Village
Beyond food and music, Santa Monica Block Fest includes a vendor village.
Visitors can browse local businesses, discover unique products, and explore shopping opportunities.
The outdoor market adds another reason to walk through the Promenade rather than staying at a single music stage.
Specific vendors and merchandise may vary.
4. Experience Three Blocks of Open-Air Entertainment
One of the most exciting parts of this festival is its size.
All three blocks of Third Street Promenade become part of the celebration.
Instead of being limited to one small event space, visitors can move between music stages, food stalls, shopping areas, and gathering spaces.
The pedestrian-friendly setting creates an energetic street-party atmosphere.
5. Celebrate Friendsgiving With Your Favorite People
The November edition has a special Friendsgiving theme.
Friendsgiving is a popular informal celebration where friends gather to enjoy food, conversation, and time together around the Thanksgiving season.
At Santa Monica Block Fest, the idea takes on a festival atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy music, share food, and spend an evening exploring downtown Santa Monica with friends.
It’s a fun alternative to a traditional holiday gathering.
6. Discover Santa Monica’s Entertainment Zone
Third Street Promenade includes a designated Entertainment Zone where eligible visitors aged 21 and older can enjoy alcoholic beverages under specific local rules.
Drinks must be purchased from approved participating businesses and consumed within permitted areas.
Visitors should follow posted rules and instructions from event staff.
Alcohol purchases are not included with free admission.
7. Enjoy the Downtown Santa Monica Atmosphere
Third Street Promenade is one of Santa Monica’s most recognizable shopping and entertainment destinations.
Its outdoor setting, restaurants, shops, and proximity to the beach make it a popular place for evening activities.
During Block Fest, the area becomes even livelier with music, vendors, and festival crowds.
Visitors can combine the celebration with other nearby downtown attractions.
Is Santa Monica Block Fest 2026 Free?
Yes. Santa Monica Block Fest is advertised as a free, all-ages public event.
There is no general admission charge to explore the main festival.
However, the organizer provides a free RSVP option, and advance registration is recommended.
Visitors should check the official event page for the latest entry instructions.
Food, drinks, optional VIP experiences, and special food passes may involve additional charges.
Santa Monica Block Fest Friendsgiving Schedule
The main festival runs from 5 PM to midnight.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 2 PM | Road closures begin |
| 5 PM | Festival opens |
| 5 PM–12 AM | Food night market |
| 5 PM–12 AM | Music stages and festival activities |
| 12 AM | Festival ends |
The complete set times for individual performers have not been confirmed in the main event listing.
Visitors should consult the organizer’s updates for performance schedules and stage information.
Where Is Santa Monica Block Fest Located?
The festival takes place across Third Street Promenade in downtown Santa Monica.
Address:
1400 3rd Street Promenade
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-oriented shopping district near Santa Monica Place and the Pacific Ocean.
The festival extends across three blocks, with food vendors and other activities located throughout the event area.
Santa Monica Street Closures on November 14
Visitors should prepare for traffic restrictions around the festival.
According to local reporting based on the City of Santa Monica’s closure schedule, road closures begin at 2 PM and continue until approximately midnight.
Affected areas include portions of the streets and access routes around Third Street Promenade and Arizona Avenue.
The festival’s food night market is also associated with the Arizona Avenue area.
Drivers should follow posted detours and avoid assuming that normal downtown routes will remain open.
If you’re planning to arrive by car, allow extra travel time.
Parking and Transportation Tips
Downtown Santa Monica has several public parking options, but a large festival can make parking more challenging.
Driving
If you plan to drive, check the city’s current parking information before leaving home.
Consider parking outside the busiest festival blocks and walking to the Promenade.
Parking fees and availability vary.
Public Transportation
The Metro E Line serves Downtown Santa Monica Station.
From the station, visitors can walk toward Third Street Promenade.
Public transportation may be a convenient option for people traveling from other parts of Los Angeles.
Rideshare
Rideshare services are another option.
However, pickup and drop-off locations may be affected by temporary road closures.
Choose a safe location away from restricted streets.
Is Santa Monica Block Fest Family-Friendly?
Yes. The organizer describes the festival as open to all ages.
Families can enjoy the outdoor atmosphere, food vendors, shopping, and music.
However, parents should expect large crowds, loud DJ performances, and a late-night festival environment.
Visitors with younger children may prefer arriving earlier in the evening.
The designated Entertainment Zone has separate alcohol rules for adults aged 21 and older.
Best Time to Visit Santa Monica Block Fest
The ideal time depends on what you want to experience.
Arrive at 5 PM for Food and Shopping
If you want time to explore the night market and vendor village, consider arriving near the opening.
This may give you more time to browse before the busiest evening period.
Visit After Sunset for the Street-Party Atmosphere
The festival’s multiple stages and evening setting may appeal to visitors looking for a lively night out.
Keep in mind that larger crowds are possible later in the evening.
Check Performance Times Before Visiting
If there’s a specific DJ or performer you want to see, review the latest schedule rather than assuming they’ll appear at a particular time.
10 Important Tips Before You Go
- Remember the correct festival time. The event starts at 5 PM, not 2 PM.
- Expect road closures from 2 PM. Plan your route accordingly.
- Reserve your free RSVP. Check the official event page for entry instructions.
- Wear comfortable shoes. The celebration covers three blocks.
- Bring a charged phone. Useful for photos, directions, and event updates.
- Budget for food and drinks. Admission is free, but purchases cost extra.
- Consider public transportation. Downtown traffic may be heavy.
- Check the DJ lineup. Individual performance times may change.
- Prepare for crowds. Previous Block Fest events have attracted large audiences.
- Follow event rules. Alcohol consumption and street access are regulated.
Why Santa Monica Block Fest Is Worth Visiting
Santa Monica Block Fest offers an unusual combination of free live entertainment, local food, shopping, and a lively outdoor setting.
The Friendsgiving theme makes the November celebration especially appealing to groups of friends looking for something different to do before Thanksgiving.
Its three-block layout gives visitors space to explore multiple attractions rather than attending a single performance.
For anyone searching for free weekend events in Los Angeles County, this festival is worth considering.
The main benefit is simple: you can enjoy the atmosphere without paying an admission fee.
Conclusion
Santa Monica Block Fest 2026 returns to Third Street Promenade on Saturday, November 14, for a free Friendsgiving celebration.
The event runs from 5 PM until midnight and features live DJs, multiple music stages, more than 20 food vendors, local shopping, and a lively three-block street festival.
Road closures begin at 2 PM, so visitors should plan transportation carefully.
Whether you’re visiting with friends, exploring the food night market, or enjoying live music, the event offers an exciting way to spend a November evening in Santa Monica.
Before attending, check the official Santa Monica Block Fest event page for free RSVP details, performance updates, and the latest visitor information.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is Santa Monica Block Fest 2026?
The Friendsgiving Edition takes place Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 5 PM to midnight.
2. Is Santa Monica Block Fest free?
Yes. The main event is free and open to all ages. Advance free RSVP is recommended. Food, drinks, and optional experiences cost extra.
3. Where is Santa Monica Block Fest held?
The event takes place across all three blocks of Third Street Promenade in downtown Santa Monica, California.
4. What time do road closures begin?
Road closures are scheduled to begin at 2 PM on November 14. The festival itself starts at 5 PM.
5. What can visitors expect at the Friendsgiving festival?
Visitors can enjoy multiple DJ stages, more than 20 food vendors, an outdoor night market, local shopping, a vendor village, and a lively street-party atmosphere.
