Santa Monica is throwing a bash for its 150th anniversary, and it's free. On Saturday, August 23, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the community-centric Endless Summer C.A.M.P. will return to Tongva Park, celebrating with art, music, and a whole lot of play. This day-long event is a continuation of the city's sesquicentennial festivities, which have been rolling out since July.
According to an announcement from the City of Santa Monica, residents and visitors alike are invited to join the third annual fest that features live music performances, art-making activities, and even an opera for the whole family to enjoy. The event's full title, Community | Art | Music | Picnic (C.A.M.P.), captures the essence of community spirit set in the park's scenic environment.
Highlighting the agenda, Santa Monica's press release details the lineup, including a bubble show and eco art-making workshop kicking off at 11 a.m., followed by the Pacific Opera Project's rendition of a "Cinderella Story" at 11:30 a.m. The festivities will continue with an upbeat performance by Masanga Marimba at 1 p.m., promising a mix of African, Latin, and American tunes.
For those looking to make the most out of their trip, Santa Monica suggests packing a picnic, bringing along some blankets or beach chairs, and exploring the park's amenities. Tongva Park boasts a splash pad, playground, and an ocean observation deck, among other hidden gems. Additionally, the streets of Downtown, the Third Street Promenade Entertainment Zone, the Santa Monica Pier, and Main Street are just around the corner for some exploration.
Getting there shouldn't be a hassle, with public transport options like the Big Blue Bus and Metro Rail’s E Line providing frequent service to the area. For those driving, parking is available at the Santa Monica Civic Center and nearby metered spots. The Endless Summer C.A.M.P. event, a part of the city's Art of Recovery initiative and produced by Community Arts Resources (CARS), emphasizes the invitation with “All are welcome.” More info and the full event schedule can be found on the City of Santa Monica's official website.
