State of the City 2026

About this event

State of the City 2026 is a free community event, taking place on Main Street between Hollister Avenue and Ocean Park Boulevard. The annual event highlights community achievements in 2026, including the expansion of full-service hours at the Santa Monica Public Library, and focus on what’s ahead for 2027 with Mayor Caroline Torosis. Admission is free and the event is open to all ages. This year’s theme of “Realignment to Renaissance” celebrates Santa Monica’s ongoing renaissance and Realignment Plan successes related to activating public spaces, encouraging local commerce and leveraging the global spotlight created by major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, Super Bowl LXI and the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. Event Schedule 4–7 p.m. City and partner booths with community resources, giveaways and family-friendly activities Guided tours of the historic Shotgun House by Santa Monica Conservancy docents Music by DJ Bukue One 4:45–5:30 p.m. Special reading by Santa Monica Poet Laureate Jay Baldwin State of the City address from Mayor Caroline Torosis 5:30–7 p.m. Live performances featuring: Santa Monica High School Orchestra Ensemble Spirit Fingers Trio: Greg Spero, Mohini Dey, Marco Cirigliano Street Closures & Transportation Limited metered street parking is available, and preferential parking rules will be enforced. Paid public parking is available at the following parking lots: Main Street Parking Lot 9, 110 Hill St. Main Street Parking Lot 10, 111 Hill St. Main Street Parking Lot 11, 170 Hollister Ave. Main Street Parking Lot 26, 150 Strand St. Attendees are encouraged to carpool, rideshare, bike or take public transit. Rides on Big Blue Bus will be free for those traveling to and from the event on Thursday, July 23, from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. — just mention “State of the City” to the bus driver. Big Blue Bus Routes 1, 3, 8 and 18 all have stops within a 10-minute walk of Main Street. Plan your trip at bigbluebus.com . Arrive by bike and take advantage of the free Santa Monica Spoke bike valet for secure bike parking. Access the bike valet, located off Main Street on Norman Place, from southbound Second Street to Norman Place or from Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard. Community members using a rideshare service or dropping off friends or family are encouraged to use the parking lot between Neilson Way and Main Street, accessible from Hollister Avenue. Note: Main Street will be closed from Ocean Park Boulevard to Hollister Avenue from noon to 10 p.m. on the day of the event.