For one day this summer, Santa Monica is closing a stretch of Ocean Avenue for a family-friendly arts festival – and it’s free for the public to enter!
On Saturday, August 8, 2026, the Art on Ocean — Palisades Park Arts Festival will take over Ocean Avenue between California Avenue and Montana Avenue for a day of fun, food, and community. From 11 am to 6 pm, visitors of all ages can walk along the oceanside street festival.
According to a press release, over 100 visual artists from around California will be showcasing original paintings, photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, mixed-media work, and handcrafted creations.
“Santa Monica deserves a free art show that stands alongside the best in Southern California,” said Jenny Rice, an event organizer. “After producing street festivals for years, I’ve learned that great events give people a reason to stay and explore. That’s why Art on Ocean brings together exceptional artists, live music, DJs, a wine garden, great food, and interactive experiences. It’s more than an art show. It’s a community celebration centered around art.”
The festival will also include a Wine Garden with live DJ sets and a Paint & Sip experience.
Family-friendly activities will include a Paint Lab pop-up with free art workshops all day and a Kids’ Area with face painting, bracelet-making, sensory play, and more, hosted by local preschool partners and community organizations.
Food on site will include:
- Blue Plate Taco
- Triple Beam Pizza
- Ubatuba Açaí
Live musicians include:
- Nick Kennerly
- Mudslide Mojo
- La Compania
- Country House Party
You can RSVP for free here, though it’s not required to enter.
And you can keep the party going after the Art on Ocean festival! The Wilshire Montana Neighborhood Coalition is hosting its first outdoor movie of the summer in Palisades Park following Art on Ocean. Bring a blanket to enjoy a free screening of Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle at 8 pm.
📍 Ocean Avenue and Palisades Park, between California Avenue and Montana Avenue, Santa Monica
📆 August 8, 2026, 11 am to 6 pm
