Venice's Rose Cafe To Close

The legendary Rose Cafe in Venice Beach has announce that after 45 years, they will be closing for good.

"Forty-five years is really something. A lot of smiles, morning coffees, and celebrations for more than four decades. It is with sincere gratitude and sadness to announce that The Rose Venice is bidding our beloved corner of Rose and Main a fond farewell. Our last day of service will be Sunday brunch on December 15th. Hope to see you!"

31st Annual Venice Surf-A-Thon Registration Is Open

Registrstion for the 31st Annual Venice Surf-A-Thon is open. The contest will be held on Saturday, December 14th at the Venice Pier.

Divisions will be: Boys 14U
Girls 14U
Boys 18U
Open Women
Open Men
Open Longboard Women
Open Longboard Men
Women 40ish
Men's 50+
Body Surfing
Body Boarding
Foamie Expression Session



Entry fee is $30 and that includes a contest t-shirt.

To register, Click Here

Stay tuned for more updates.

See photos from last year, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Montana Avenue Holiday Walk + Marketplace

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and the festive spirit has arrived to Montana Avenue! Gather on December 7 for live music, face painting, carolers strolling up and down the street and meet Santa and the gang at Montana Avenue’s biggest event of the year! Listen to live music and hear an upbeat klezmer band to get friends and family in the dancing mood, and feel the good cheer viewing shop windows dressed for the season. See you for some good fun and great holiday gift shopping along Montana Avenue!




Filled with local merchants, live music, roaming carolers, and appearances by the Grinch, Cindy Lou, and Princess Elsa!

Enjoy hot cocoa and winter-themed activities for kids, in partnership with Tumbleweed Day Camp, and holiday parties hosted by local businesses. Don't miss the chance to shop local vendors, savor delicious treats, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. In partnership with Thomas James Homes.

Saturday, December 7 · 3 - 8pm
Montana Avenue
Santa Monica, CA



For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

The Holiday Boat Parade in Marina del Rey is held every year on the second Saturday in December.

Our theme this year is “A Margaritaville Holiday” celebrating the joyful legacy of the legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett. The parade begins with a spectacular lightshow display. Boat participants come up with their own ideas and decorate their boats with lots of holiday lights and decorations with our theme as their guide. They also wear costumes, dance, sing, have live bands or play music. Both boaters and spectators enjoy themselves immensely.



We look forward to seeing you at our 62nd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade on Saturday, December 14, 2024!

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

CAF x PlayLA Para Surf Clinics

CAF and PlayLA hosted a series of adaptive surfing clinics in Venice Beach. Athletes with physical disabilities came together to catch waves, build confidence, and show that the ocean is for everyone.

Malibu bumper cars: SURF edition

Here's another fun episode dissecting the craziness of surfing at the Malibu Pier from Brad Jacobson.

December Santa Monica Pier Locals Night

December 19 | 4 PM - 8 PM 🎉✨

Let’s wrap up the holiday season in true Santa Monica style with a night packed full of festive fun, music, and community vibes!

🎶 Rockin’ the Night Away Outside on the Pier Deck

Live Music: Feel the groove with Squad Harmonix and The Jane Fonda's bringing their holiday hits.

DJ Proper: Our Santa Monica fave will keep the holiday vibes spinning!

Holiday Car Show: Stroll Sandy Cane Lane from 5–8 PM and marvel at the most decked-out, holiday-blinged cars you’ve ever seen. At 7 PM, the ultimate showdown begins as a panel of judges crowns the Best Holiday Car!

🎠 Cozy Cheer Inside the Carousel Building

Musical Storytime with Books & Cookies: A whimsical treat for the little ones (and the young at heart!).

Photos with Santa: Snap a pic with the big guy himself! He’s here from 4–7 PM—don’t forget your wishlist!

Bob Baker Marionette Shows: These puppets are bringing the magic with performances at 5 PM and 6:30 PM.

Mayoral Transition Celebration: At 5:30 PM, join us in honoring our city’s leadership with this special holiday moment.

Letters to Santa: Drop off your holiday wishes at our special station, and we’ll make sure they head straight to the North Pole!

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

16th Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl

The 16th Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl will return on Saturday, December 14, 2024 to raise money for the Westside Food Bank. The SANTA Monica Pub Crawl is one of the city’s most beloved holiday events, when thousands of crawlers fill the streets of Santa Monica



Join thousands of Santas, Elves, Naughty Reindeer, and over 20 of the City’s best bars and restaurants to raise money for the Westside Food Bank to Help Those in Need for the Holidays.

Since 2008, the SANTA Monica Pub Crawl has raised enough for HALF A MILLION MEALS for the Westside Food Bank, and we couldn't have done it without your support. Every $5 raised feeds 20 people, so every little bit counts. Can’t make it this year? Not to fret, you can still make a donation at www.wsfb.org.

So, throw on those Santa hats, shine those menorahs, grab your friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues, and Crawl for a Cause at the annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl.



For more info & to get tickets, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Santa Cruise - LA's Biggest Holiday Group Ride & Party

Join the 4th Annual Santa Cruise in Santa Monica! A festive holiday ride & party for skateboarders, rollerbladers, bikers, and more...



Get ready to sleigh the streets! This December 7th, we're throwing the most unforgettable holiday event in Los Angeles. Join us for the Santa Cruise—a festive rolling parade and and night of holiday shenanigans!

Join us for our iconic holiday group ride through West LA. The route is a 6 mile beginner friendly loop from Santa Monica to Venice and back. Expect music, dancing, and several surprises along the way. We ask everyone joining the group ride to be able and confident with stopping and basic road skating skills. All Wheels Welcome!

Meet-Up Time: 3:00 PM

Roll Out: 4:00 PM sharp!

Starting Location: Santa Monica City Hall, 1685 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Dress Code: Deck yourself in your most festive attire—Santa suits, elf outfits, reindeer antlers, or light up like a Christmas tree! Let's turn the streets into a winter wonderland.

The Ride:

A joyful 6-mile cruise through Santa Monica & Venice, great for all skill levels and ages.
Surprise stops along the way with holiday games, entertainment, and treats.
All Wheels Welcome! Skateboards, rollerblades, bikes, scooters—if it rolls, it's invited! Just make sure you're confident with basic road skills and stopping.

⚠️ The ride will conclude by 7pm at Waterfront Venice (205 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291) for the 2nd party of the event.



Saturday, December 7 · 3 - 11pm
Santa Monica City Hall
1685 Main Street Santa Monica, CA 90401

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

2024 Winter Santa Monica King Tides Celebration

A groovy gathering of ocean enthusiasts as we explore the fascinating world of King Tides and celebrate their majestic beauty!

Experience one of the wonders of nature, the highest tides of the year! When the planets and sun are at their closest, and the orbits of the earth and sun are just right, the King Tides, the highest tides of the year, will occur. These high tides give us a glimpse into the future of sea level rise and how the these changes will affect our beach, coastal infrastructure, and our community. This is a natural phenomenon which can be appreciated for its subtlety and its potential intensity. It is an opportunity to connect with others in a shared appreciation of the wonder of nature. At this event we will also collect images for scientific documentation of the tides for the Coastal Commission.

December 8, 2024
3:30 pm to 7:30 PM
Heal the Bay Aquarium
1600 Ocean Front Walk Santa Monica, CA 90401

For more info & to reserve a sopt, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Project Save Our Surf Beach Clean Up

Project Save Our Surf returns to Tower 26 to clean the beach. Buckets, gloves and light snacks will be provided.



Come join Project Save Our Surf for a fun afternoon of music and refreshments cleaning the beach. Buckets and gloves will also be provided for the cleanup. Connect with others in Los Angeles working to support our environment.

We have also partnered with Project Pop Drop to collect items for the homeless that we will be delivering to a homeless shelter on the last Saturday of the month (each month is a different shelter and details will be available at the cleanup for those who want to attend that event as well). We are collecting non- perishable foods and new toiletries, new socks, new underwear, new clothing etc.

Saturday, December 14 · 11am - 1pm
Santa Monica Beach Tower 26
2559 Ocean Front Walk Santa Monica, CA 90405

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

MAYA and the WAVE - Special Screening

Ten years in the making - MAYA and the WAVE tells the story of Maya Gabeira who dreamed of surfing the biggest wave in the world. Her body, her mind, and society tried to stop her - but she never gave up.

Please join us for a very special screening of the film at Emerson College's Bright Family Screening Room followed by Q&A with Director Stephanie Johnes ✨

Screening will begin promptly at 7PM. Late-entry will not be admitted.

NOTE: This screening is free (first-come, first-served) and seating is limited. To help us track attendance, you must register for the event. Your registration does not guarantee entry. Food and drinks are strictly prohibited in the screening room. No smoking allowed on the premises.

Tuesday, December 3 · 7 - 9pm PST.
Doors at 6:30pm
Emerson College Los Angeles Center
5960 Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90028

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

2024 Santa Monice-Venice Christmas Run

Mark your calendar and get ready to join the jolliest run in Southern California! The 47th annual Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run returns on December 14, 2024. Experience this historic and festive event in person as you dash down the beautiful streets of Santa Monica and Venice, California, including a long stretch along the famous Venice Beach boardwalk.



Sleigh one of the 5K, 10K, or Youth Run courses before jinglin’ your way across the finish line where a holiday bash will be waiting for you with delicious treats and festive beverages that would make Santa’s reindeer jealous.

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Santa Monica PD & FD Candy Cane Drive

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Miracle on Main Street

Miracle on Main Street 2024 will be Sunday, December 8 with kids activities, Santa and the tree lighting on the Heritage Museum lawn. Plus, Carolers & street-wide festivities and holiday parties into the night!

December 8, 2024, 3:30 pm to 7:30 PM

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Venice Boardwalk Sunglass Store Ransacked

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"Venice Beach Boardwalk, Saturday, November 30, 2024 — Crews were busy cleaning up after a dramatic smash-and-grab robbery at the iconic Good See Co. eyewear store early this morning. At approximately 4 a.m., a vehicle rammed through the store's security gates and wall, causing substantial damage to the building. Good See Co., known for its extensive selection of designer sunglasses and optical frames, was the target of the heist. An eyewitness account from a local homeless individual, identified as "Dragon," revealed that two vehicles were involved in the incident. The Los Angeles Police Department responded swiftly, including deploying a helicopter to assist in the investigation. Good See Co. has been a Venice Beach staple for over 35 years, offering one of the most comprehensive selections of eyewear in the country. The store boasts over 100,000 items in stock, featuring 200 unique brands, custom lenses, and on-site optical services. Its oceanfront location has made it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. While repairs to the damage are underway, the community remains on edge as LAPD investigates the incident. The smash-and-grab serves as a stark reminder of rising concerns about crime on the boardwalk."

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

62nd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

The Holiday Boat Parade in Marina del Rey is held every year on the second Saturday in December.

Our theme this year is “A Margaritaville Holiday” celebrating the joyful legacy of the legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett. The parade begins with a spectacular lightshow display. Boat participants come up with their own ideas and decorate their boats with lots of holiday lights and decorations with our theme as their guide. They also wear costumes, dance, sing, have live bands or play music. Both boaters and spectators enjoy themselves immensely.



We look forward to seeing you at our 62nd Annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade on Saturday, December 14, 2024!

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run

Mark your calendar and get ready to join the jolliest run in Southern California! The 47th annual Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run returns on December 14, 2024. Experience this historic and festive event in person as you dash down the beautiful streets of Santa Monica and Venice, California, including a long stretch along the famous Venice Beach boardwalk.



Sleigh one of the 5K, 10K, or Youth Run courses before jinglin’ your way across the finish line where a holiday bash will be waiting for you with delicious treats and festive beverages that would make Santa’s reindeer jealous.

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Miracle on Main Street, Santa Monica

Miracle on Main Street 2024 will be Sunday, December 8 with kids activities, Santa and the tree lighting on the Heritage Museum lawn. Plus, Carolers & street-wide festivities and holiday parties into the night!

December 8, 2024, 3:30 pm to 7:30 PM

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Lost Angels Venice Thanksgiving Block Party

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"On Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 28, 2024, the Lost Angels Organization hosted its 12th annual block party on Rose Avenue in Venice, providing vital support and holiday cheer to the homeless community. The event, held between Hampton Drive and Main Street, transformed the area into a haven of generosity and community connection.

Founder Tina Marie Wright expressed her passion for giving back during the event. "Hi guys, my name is Tina Wright. I'm the founder of Los Angeles Nonprofit Organization. This is our 12th year doing our event in Venice Beach. We give back to a less fortunate community, the homeless. We mainly give out hot, warm plates of Thanksgiving and Christmas food, brand-new shoes, and toiletries."

Tina's sister Linda, who plays a key role in organizing the event, elaborated on the program's thoughtful structure. "We have a hot food station where participants get to pick their warm dishes, brand-new fitted shoes, and we also pair them up with a volunteer in a buddy system. The volunteers guide them throughout the event, ensuring they feel cared for, loved, and reminded that the community is here for them."

Attendees enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving feast with all the fixings, while also receiving clothing, shoes, and essential toiletries. Volunteers embodied the organization's motto, "No one ever gets left behind," as they worked tirelessly to create an atmosphere of kindness and hope."

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

Happy Thanksgiving From German In Venice

Mike, aka German in Venice, vlogs about daily life in Venice Beach, and the nearby communities.

"When I came to Venice Beach today, I could not believe my eyes within 20 minutes the whole Venice beach was covered in mist or fog. It looked really scary and eerie. You don’t see this too often, but it gives you an opportunity to take some really cool pictures."

Venice Electric Light Parade

"About half of Venice Electric Light Parade goes through Santa Monica. If you want to join us, we leave from Windward Plaza in Venice at sunset every Sunday. We ride up the Marvin Braude Bike Trail to the SM Pier, then we make our way back along the beach, down Main Street, jog over to Abbot Kinney, Venice Sign, Venice Pier, then a little dance break at the end on Washington Street.

Join in anywhere along the route. I’m usually there on my yellow bike with disco balls and multi-colored LED lights. Lots of fun people and community building focused on bike safety and sober riding.

Come hang out with us!" - Mandy Zelinka

PCH Lanes Closures

Expect northbound Pacific Coast Highway to be reduced to one lane between Topanga Canyon Blvd. & Big Rock Drive from 9 p.m. Tuesday 11/26 to 6 a.m. Wednesday 11/27 to place conduit for utility lines.

For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.

Santa Monica PD & FD Candy Cane Drive

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

31st Annual Venice Surf-A-Thon Registration Is Open

Registrstion for the 31st Annual Venice Surf-A-Thon is open. The contest will be held on Saturday, December 14th at the Venice Pier.

To register, Click Here

Stay tuned for more updates.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Community Assistance Leads To Arrest In Assault On A Woman In Santa Monica

On September 22, 2024, at approximately 12:30 a.m., officers responded to a report of an assault on a woman in the 1400 block of Alley 5. Upon arrival, officers located the victim, a 25-year-old woman who was new to the area and experiencing homelessness. She sustained severe injuries, including facial trauma and signs consistent with strangulation.

According to a witness, the unprovoked attack involved the suspect repeatedly kicking and punching the woman as she lay on the ground. The incident was captured on surveillance footage, which also showed the suspect fleeing the scene. Despite extensive investigative efforts, initial attempts to identify the suspect through the video were unsuccessful. In response, detectives released the surveillance footage to the public, seeking assistance in identifying the individual involved.

On November 3, 2024, detectives received a tip that led to the identification of the suspect, Oscar Benn, a 27-year-old resident of Altadena. On November 14, 2024, detectives successfully apprehended Benn near the VA facility in West Los Angeles. He was subsequently booked and charged by the Los Angeles County District Attorney for attempted murder under Penal Code 664/187(a) PC. Benn is currently in the custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

Benn has a criminal history, including prior arrests for aggravated assault and burglary.

This arrest highlights the critical role of community partnership in ensuring public safety. The Police Department would like to thank the public for their assistance, which was instrumental in bringing this suspect into custody.

For additional information, please contact Det. Sean Baker (Sean.Baker@santamonica.gov) at (310) 458-8932, Sgt. Chad Goodwin (Chad.Goodwin@santamonica.gov) at (310) 458-8931, or the Watch Commander 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.

Ocean Water Use Warning

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health cautions residents who are planning to visit the below Los Angeles County beaches to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters:

November 22, 2024

BEACH AREA WARNINGS:

· Windward storm drain at Venice Beach

100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.

· Big Rock Beach in Malibu

100 yards up and down the coast from the public access steps.

· Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro

The entire swim area.

· Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey

The entire swim area.

· Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica

100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.·

Marie Canyon Storm Drain at Puerco Beach 100 yards up and down the coast from the public access steps.

· Topanga Canyon Beach

100 yards up and down the coast from the lagoon.

Use the map below to obtain the current water quality status of your favorite beach location. Use your mouse wheel to zoom into a particular location. Click on the marker to identify the sampling location. This map is updated as conditions change.

Bay Street Boards X Fahrenheit/Celsius Board Swap

Scenes from Saturday's Board Swap at Bay Street Boards hosted by Fahrenheit/Celsius.

Homeless Fire On Beach In Santa Monica

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"On Sunday, November 24, 2024, Santa Monica Police Community Service Officers quickly responded to a fire at the Santa Monica Beach parking lot. Using fire extinguishers, the officers managed to control the flames before Santa Monica Fire Department personnel arrived to fully extinguish the fire by dousing it with water.

The fire reportedly originated from a cooking setup involving charcoal briquettes, used by a homeless individual preparing breakfast. Several burnt pans were found at the scene, and the fire appeared to have grown out of control.

Police detained an individual for further investigation. No injuries were reported, and the incident remains under review."

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

German In Venice Documerts The Wekly Venice Homeless Clean Up

Mike, aka German in Venice, vlogs about daily life in Venice Beach, and the nearby communities.

"This is an update video about the Venice Beach cleanup. Every Friday, LAPD, Parks & Recreation, and Park Rangers are checking on the restrooms in Venice Beach. Often times the restrooms are occupied by homeless staying overnight. No Homeless is allowed to camp on Venice beach"