Santa Monica has earned its nickname, “Hollywood by the Sea,” for good reason. Evenings here start with breathtaking ocean sunsets that feel straight out of a movie, drawing couples and dreamers alike to the shoreline. As night falls, the city lights up—both literally and with star power.
Brimming with artistic energy, this coastal gem has long been intertwined with Southern California’s entertainment scene. Whether you’re out with friends, enjoying a family evening, or on a romantic date, you’ll find plenty to explore—from acclaimed theater productions and cozy live music venues to laugh-out-loud comedy spots.
LIVE THEATRE
The Eli and Edythe BroadStage, located at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center in the Mid-City area, showcases a wide range of performances spanning theatre, dance, opera, symphony, and beyond, serving as a cornerstone of Santa Monica’s vibrant arts and cultural scene. As one of the region’s premier venues for live music and theatrical productions, The BroadStage has welcomed performances from iconic artists like Sutton Foster, Patti LuPone, and others. Its 500-seat Mainstage offers grand theatrical experiences, while its more intimate 100-seat black box venue, The Edye, features innovative works by emerging talent.
Over in the Ocean Park neighborhood, the Ruskin Group Theatre Co. has housed a critically acclaimed theatre company for more than two decades in a space originally used as an airplane hangar. This close-knit 50-seat venue features an eclectic lineup of live performances, including plays, music, and staged readings. A highlight is their signature monthly LA Café Plays event, in which playwrights create 10-minute plays that go from concept to performance in a single day—making for a truly distinctive live theatre experience.
Along Pico Boulevard, the Morgan-Wixson Theatre is a beloved space for comedic and dramatic performances, as well as youth-oriented workshops and shows. As the city’s longest-running theatrical institution, the Morgan-Wixson continues to draw audiences for its community-centric, family-friendly programming. Past productions have included musical favorites such as Bat Boy: The Musical, Legally Blonde The Musical Jr., Little Women, and many others.
Centrally located in Downtown Santa Monica, the Santa Monica Playhouse brings a mix of plays, musicals, and comedy to audiences of all ages. From timeless family classics like Snow White and Cinderella to fresh takes on well-known titles such as Romeo and Juliet and The Wizard of Oz, the Playhouse remains a cultural hub. Founded in 1960, it is dedicated to arts education and enrichment, offering a variety of workshops and programs. Its international tours and cultural exchange initiatives have welcomed artists from around the globe, enriching the city’s theatrical landscape.
LIVE MUSIC
Harvelle’s Blues Club Santa Monica (Downtown) has been a staple of the local music scene since 1931, offering a diverse mix of blues, jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and more. Originally established as a speakeasy during Prohibition, Harvelle’s has welcomed legendary performers including Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Bonnie Raitt, earning its place as one of the oldest live music venues in the area. Today, guests can also participate in live band karaoke nights, creating their own unforgettable music memories during their time in Santa Monica.
Terrazza Lounge (Pier/Ocean Ave.), located inside the elegant Hotel Casa del Mar, provides a memorable combination of live jazz, pop, and blues performances alongside breathtaking sunset views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests can relax and take in the melodies while savoring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine influenced by Spanish and Italian flavors, creating a quintessential Santa Monica experience that engages all the senses.
McCabe’s Guitar Shop (Ocean Park) blends the charm of a musical instrument store with the intimacy of a small performance space. Visitors can explore a wide variety of instruments sourced from around the globe and attend live shows featuring folk, Americana, bluegrass, and world music. This beloved venue has hosted some of music’s greats, including Bruce Springsteen, Mick Taylor, and Etta James, offering a truly personal glimpse into the richness of the local and international music landscape.
The Georgian Room (Pier/Ocean Ave.) offers a hidden gem experience within the iconic Georgian Hotel, taking guests back to the elegance of the Art Deco era. This exclusive speakeasy setting features fine Italian dining, craft cocktails, and unannounced musical performances, making each visit feel like a step into the glamour and mystery of Old Hollywood.
TRiP Santa Monica (Main Street) showcases a vibrant schedule of live performances all week long, including open mic nights that invite guests to share their talents and join in on lively jam sessions. With a welcoming neighborhood pub atmosphere, TRiP has earned accolades such as LA Weekly’s “Best Neighborhood Music Venue” and provides a down-to-earth way to connect with Santa Monica’s eclectic music culture.
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows (Wilshire) delivers an elevated musical atmosphere with its Lobby Lounge Live series every Friday and Saturday from 7–10 p.m. Fridays feature master pianist Jason Pelsey, who performs classic tunes and fulfills live requests—occasionally inviting six lucky attendees to join him at the piano for a hands-on musical experience. Saturdays bring the smooth elegance of jazz, courtesy of the celebrated BroadStage series.
Santa Monica Proper Hotel (Wilshire) brings together artistic energy and architectural beauty through its Proper Presents programming, which features an eclectic lineup of live music events throughout the year. From electrifying DJ nights to serene classical performances, these gatherings are held in visually stunning, design-forward spaces—including the hotel’s striking rooftop—adding a stylish layer to Santa Monica’s cultural rhythm.
LIVE COMEDY
The Crow (Mid-City) brings laughter to audiences of all kinds with a wide variety of comedy shows tailored to specific age groups and themes. Parents can attend the BYOB Comedy Show—specifically created for caregivers with infants in tow—while teens and tweens can enjoy the IRL Show, a high-energy, pro-level comedy event for those aged 13 and up. For a fun girls’ night out, Laughaholics highlights female and non-binary performers. The venue also offers hands-on stand-up workshops where guests can try their hand at writing and performing original sets. Nestled beside popular eateries like Le Great Outdoor and Birdie G’s and surrounded by the creative vibes of the Bergamot Station Arts Center, The Crow makes for a well-rounded and laughter-filled evening in Santa Monica.
M.i.’s Westside Comedy Theater (Downtown) is a cozy and casual hotspot known for delivering stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy shows in a setting that includes a relaxed wine and beer bar. With over ten years of entertaining audiences, the theater has built a strong reputation, regularly featuring performers from platforms like Netflix, HBO, and Comedy Central. It’s a local favorite that draws both seasoned comedy fans and first-time visitors—and you might even spot a celebrity in the crowd.
OTHER LIVE EVENTS
The Santa Monica Pier comes alive on the third Thursday of every month from September through May with its “Locals’ Night” series. This recurring event invites the community and visitors alike to experience the city’s creative heartbeat through live DJ sets, musical performances from neighborhood bands, art displays, and interactive experiences—all set against the backdrop of the iconic pier.
On Sundays, the Main Street Farmers Market offers more than fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisan foods—it transforms into a vibrant pedestrian street fair complete with live musical acts. Visitors strolling through can shop, snack, and soak in the laid-back beachside energy while enjoying performances from talented local musicians.
Santa Monica Place (Downtown) keeps the rhythm going with its weekly Sounds of Santa Monica series in the Center Plaza. This event pairs retail therapy with live entertainment, featuring up-and-coming musicians and dynamic DJ sets. Shoppers can browse the latest trends, dine at stylish eateries, and take in the tunes. For families, Friday mornings at 10:30 a.m. feature the Kids Edition—a lively, interactive sing-along session filled with music and movement that delights audiences of all ages.
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