𝗘𝗬𝗘 𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗞𝗬: Drone Demo Highlights Santa Monica Police Public Safety Tech at National Night Out

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Tuesday, August 5, 2025 — Santa Monica’s annual National Night Out brought hundreds of residents to City Hall for an evening of community connection, public safety education, and family-friendly activities.

One of the evening’s highlights was a live drone demonstration by the Santa Monica Police Department, drawing a large crowd as officers showcased the department’s aerial surveillance technology. The demonstration was part of ongoing efforts to promote transparency and modernize public safety tools.

In attendance were Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete, Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista, and Santa Monica Fire Chief Matthew Hallock, all engaging with the community throughout the event.

Families explored public safety vehicles, played games, and spoke with first responders while children received free helmets and fire hats. The event also featured music, food, and outreach booths under the theme “Santa Monica All Stars.”

Hosted annually, National Night Out is a nationwide initiative designed to strengthen police-community partnerships and encourage neighborhood camaraderie.

𝗗𝗘𝗩𝗢𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗜𝗡 𝗠𝗢𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Festival of the Chariots Brings Dance and Spirit to the Beach

VENICE BEACH, Calif. — Sunday, August 3, 2025 — Following a vibrant morning parade through Santa Monica’s Main Street, the 49th Annual Festival of the Chariots continued its celebration at Windward Plaza, where thousands gathered to experience a colorful convergence of spiritual culture, live music, and community fellowship. Hosted by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), the festival’s second half transformed the Venice Beach Boardwalk into a dynamic open-air celebration of devotion and heritage. At the heart of the gathering stood a large stage where a steady rotation of live performers—including traditional Indian dancers, kirtan singers, and international musical acts—kept the atmosphere energized and inclusive. Surrounding the plaza, attendees explored an expansive exhibition space featuring spiritual literature, interactive booths, yoga and meditation outreach, and artisan crafts. The event also offered a free vegetarian feast, or prasadam, which drew long lines as families and beachgoers sampled a variety of flavorful Indian dishes prepared in accordance with Vedic tradition. Children participated in face painting and games while visitors of all backgrounds engaged with volunteers eager to explain the significance of the chariots, the chanting of the Hare Krishna Mahā-mantra, and the deep cultural roots of Ratha Yatra, a tradition with origins in Jagannatha Puri, India, dating back over 5,000 years. As waves crashed nearby and the scent of incense lingered in the ocean breeze, the Venice Beach portion of the festival offered a more immersive and reflective environment than the morning’s energetic procession—inviting participants to slow down, connect, and celebrate a shared sense of spiritual community. The event remains one of Southern California’s most distinctive cultural offerings, blending timeless tradition with contemporary celebration—right at the edge of the Pacific.

𝗝𝗢𝗬𝗙𝗨𝗟 𝗝𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗡𝗘𝗬: Krishna Devotees Bring Smiles, Fans, and Chanting to Chariot Parade

 

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — On Sunday, August 3, 2025, the 49th Annual Festival of the Chariots, organized by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), transformed Main Street into a jubilant procession route as devotees hand‑pulled three ornately decorated chariots—each reaching approximately 40 feet in height—in a vibrant display of spiritual celebration. The annual parade began at the Santa Monica Civic Center, where a sea of participants gathered to chant the Vaishnava Mahā‑mantra—“Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare”—while dancing and singing to the rhythm of traditional Indian instruments. The chariots, representing deities Jagannatha, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, glided south along Main Street, drawing crowds who lined the route to witness the spectacle. Upon arriving at Windward Plaza in Venice Beach, the celebration expanded into a full cultural and spiritual festival. Live kirtan filled the air as classical Indian dancers performed on a central stage. Visitors were offered a free vegetarian feast, prepared as prasadam, and explored an array of exhibits, booths, and gift shops featuring devotional literature, handcrafted goods, and arts from the Indian spiritual tradition. Children participated in interactive activities while others attended workshops focused on meditation, spiritual philosophy, and chanting. The event, entirely free to the public, served as a welcoming space for cultural exchange, spiritual reflection, and community connection. Rooted in the sacred Ratha Yatra tradition of Jagannatha Puri, India—a festival with origins dating back over 5,000 years—the Los Angeles edition has been held annually since 1976, save for a brief pause during the pandemic. It remains one of the largest and most enduring Hare Krishna parades in the Western Hemisphere. The celebration continues this afternoon at Windward Plaza, where the sounds of chanting, drums, and dancing fill the air. With cultural performances, free vegetarian feasts, and spiritual exhibits still drawing crowds, the 49th Annual Festival of the Chariots remains in full swing along the Venice Beach Boardwalk.

𝗖𝗥𝗨𝗜𝗦𝗜𝗡' 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗗𝗘: Santa Monica Hosts First-Ever Classic Car Show on Third Street Promenade

SANTA MONICA, CA — For the first time ever, the iconic 3rd Street Promenade was transformed into a boulevard of chrome and culture as classic car enthusiasts gathered for the inaugural Classic Car Show, held Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The event was co-hosted by Pico Youth & Family Center (PYFC), Downtown Santa Monica, and @310RidersCarClub, and stretched from Broadway to Wilshire, drawing in families, collectors, and car lovers of all ages. Organizers emphasized the event as a celebration of unity, community, and culture, offering a moment of positivity during challenging times.

The street filled with polished classics, lowriders, and custom builds as DJ Jason Gnarlee provided the soundtrack for a festive day that also featured games, a 50/50 raffle, and food and drink discounts at local restaurants. Entry was free to the public, though vehicle registration was coordinated through organizer Anthony Quinn.

“Bringing this show to the Promenade isn’t just about the cars — it’s about creating space for togetherness and celebrating Santa Monica’s diverse spirit,” said organizers in a joint statement.

With limited spots for vehicles and strong turnout from the community, the event marked what many hope will become a new annual tradition on the Westside.

𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗘 𝗖𝗨𝗥𝗩𝗘 𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗔𝗟: Venice’s Dogtown Super Show Dazzles With Lowriders and Lookers

VENICE BEACH, CA — Car enthusiasts from across Southern California gathered at Windward Plaza on Saturday, July 26, 2025, for the return of the Dogtown Super Show, a free, family-friendly celebration of vintage automotive culture along the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk. The all-day event, presented by the Dogtown Devils Car Club in partnership with the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, featured more than 200 classic vehicles, including Lowriders, Kustoms, Street Rods, Rat Rods, pre-1980s Trucks, and Muscle Cars. From meticulously restored classics to creative custom builds, the show offered a vibrant display of craftsmanship and nostalgia that drew a diverse crowd of car lovers, photographers, and curious beachgoers. Festivities kicked off at 9:00 a.m. and continued through the afternoon with community-focused contests and entertainment. A corn-hole tournament sparked friendly competition at noon, followed by a vintage-style Pin-Up Contest at 2:30 p.m. The event concluded with an award ceremony at 3:30 p.m., recognizing standout vehicles in categories such as Best Classic, Best Kustom, Best Lowrider, Best Muscle Car, Best Paint, and Best Chop. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed food vendors, photo booths, and opportunities to interact with car owners, many of whom traveled from far beyond Venice to showcase their vehicles. Organizers emphasized the event’s accessibility and community spirit. “This is a 100% family-friendly event,” read one message from the Dogtown Super Show team. “Come down and experience the most fun you’ve had at the beach all summer.” The Dogtown Super Show continues to serve as a vibrant tribute to Southern California’s enduring car culture, set against the unmistakable backdrop of Venice Beach.

𝗘‑𝗕𝗜𝗞𝗘 𝗖𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗞𝗗𝗢𝗪𝗡: Santa Monica Police Impound 12 Sur-Ron–Style Bikes at Beach Charging Station

SANTA MONICA, CA — On Saturday, July 26, 2025, a Santa Monica Police Department special task force impounded 12 Sur-Ron-type electric motorcycles from a public charging station at the Santa Monica Beach parking lot on Barnard Way. Officers from both motor and bicycle units responded to the scene, where a group of riders had parked and charged their high-powered e-bikes. No citations were issued, but two flatbed tow trucks arrived to transport the impounded vehicles—each carrying six of the electric bikes.

According to authorities, the operation followed a wave of public complaints and reports of serious accidents involving high-speed e-bikes in the beach area. Sur-Ron-style electric motorcycles, while sometimes mistaken for standard e-bikes, do not meet California’s legal definition of a street-legal electric bicycle. These off-road vehicles often exceed power outputs of 3,000 watts and can reach speeds above 40 miles per hour. In most cases, they also lack operable pedals, disqualifying them from being registered as Class 1, 2, or 3 e-bikes under state law.

In California, legal electric bicycles must be equipped with functioning pedals and powered by an electric motor of no more than 750 watts. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are limited to speeds of 20 miles per hour, with Class 2 models allowing throttle-assisted propulsion. Class 3 e-bikes permit pedal-assisted speeds up to 28 miles per hour and require helmets for riders under 18, along with other safety provisions. Sur-Ron models, by contrast, are designed exclusively for off-highway use and fall under the category of electric dirt bikes. They are neither eligible for registration as street vehicles nor protected by bicycle exemptions, making their operation on public roads, bike paths, or sidewalks illegal.

The seized vehicles can be recovered by their owners upon proof of ownership and payment of towing and storage fees. Police say enforcement efforts will continue as part of a broader push to address unsafe and unregulated e-bike use on the beach and in other public areas.

𝗖𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗖 𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗥𝗜𝗧: Firefighters, City Leaders Mark 150th Anniversary at Santa Monica State of the City

SANTA MONICA, CA — Thursday, July 17, 2025 — Community members gathered at Christine Emerson Reed Park and the newly reopened Miles Memorial Playhouse for this year’s State of the City event, marking both a civic milestone and the kickoff of Santa Monica’s 150th anniversary celebration. Billed as “A Celebration of Resilience and Growth,” the evening featured a fresh format with an opening reception hosted by Mayor Lana Negrete and incoming City Manager Oliver Chi. Held inside the historic Playhouse from 4 to 5 p.m., the reception included refreshments, informational displays, and opportunities for attendees to speak directly with city leadership. Outside in the park, DJ Bukue One provided the musical backdrop as city departments and community partners offered interactive booths, trivia games, and giveaways. The family-friendly event invited residents to bring blankets and picnic gear while enjoying art, food, and live performances. Following welcome remarks by Mayor Negrete and a poem by Santa Monica Poet Laureate Annelyse Carmack, the evening program included performances by youth talent from Downbeat 720, the multimedia ensemble String Theory, and artists from Los Angeles Performance Practice’s “Bridge the Gaps” residency initiative. Docents from the Santa Monica Conservancy led 15-minute guided tours of the Miles Memorial Playhouse throughout the evening, highlighting the venue’s architectural and cultural significance. Food vendors such as Border Grill and Hot Dog on a Stick provided local fare, while a beer garden hosted by Santa Monica Brew Works served guests in the park. The event also served as the official start to Santa Monica’s 150th anniversary campaign, a months-long celebration set to continue through December 2025 with additional community events and tributes to the city’s history. To reduce traffic and promote accessibility, the City offered complimentary Big Blue Bus rides for those attending the event. Bicycle valet services were provided along California Avenue by Santa Monica Spoke, and drop-off zones were designated for rideshare users on Lincoln Boulevard.