Santa Monica Beach will roar to life with music as The Killers and Olivia Dean are set to headline the inaugural Ocean Way Festival, scheduled for September 26-27. This marks the first major music festival to grace the city’s iconic shoreline, promising a significant cultural event for the region. The festival is being produced by Goldenvoice, the powerhouse promoter behind major events like Coachella and Stagecoach, signaling a high-caliber production and lineup.
A New Coastal Music Tradition
The Ocean Way Festival aims to tap into Santa Monica’s rich musical heritage, a legacy deeply intertwined with the city’s identity. The festival’s name itself pays homage to Ocean Way Recording, a legendary studio founded by musician and audio engineer Allen Sides in 1968 on the very street that lends the festival its name. This connection underscores a commitment to honoring the past while forging a new musical future for the community.
Goldenvoice VP of regional festivals, Nic Adler, emphasized this connection in a statement, noting Santa Monica’s "incredible music history" and Goldenvoice’s role in it. He highlighted past legendary shows at the Civic Auditorium and the genesis of Ocean Way Recording, stating, "Ocean Way Festival is our opportunity to celebrate that history while building something that feels authentically Santa Monica for years to come." The festival’s organizers envision it as a vibrant celebration that resonates with the local spirit and attracts music lovers from across the globe.
Stellar Lineup and Iconic Setting
Beyond the headlining acts of the Grammy-winning band The Killers, known for their anthemic hits like "Mr. Brightside," and the acclaimed British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean, the festival boasts a diverse and compelling roster of artists. The lineup includes indie rock stalwart Jack White, the psychedelic grooves of Khruangbin, and the reggae-infused sounds of Sublime.
Fans can also anticipate performances from Durand Jones and the Indicators, the dream-pop sensibilities of Alvvays, and the electronic beats of SG Lewis. The bill further features the soulful melodies of Hiatus Kaiyote, the unique sounds of BLOND:ISH, the chillwave vibes of Poolside, and a special DJ set from the celebrated electronic duo Hot Chip.
The festival’s setting is as much a draw as its performers. The main stage will be framed by the picturesque Santa Monica Pier, a landmark that evokes a sense of classic California charm. The festival grounds will span the beach between the pier and Bay Street, offering attendees a unique experience with two stages designed to cater to various musical tastes.
Ticketing and Resident Privileges
Ticket sales for the inaugural Ocean Way Festival will commence with a presale exclusively for Santa Monica residents on July 22. This initiative aims to ensure that the local community has priority access to what is anticipated to be a highly sought-after event. Following the resident presale, tickets will become available to the general public on July 23. Interested parties can find purchase information on the official Ocean Way Festival website.
A City Embracing Its Cultural Renaissance
The festival’s arrival in Santa Monica coincides with a period of revitalization for the coastal city. Mayor Caroline Torosis expressed enthusiasm for the event, framing it as a key component of Santa Monica’s ongoing renaissance. "Santa Monica is in the middle of a renaissance. The city is welcoming the world to its shores, and Ocean Way Festival is how we’re making sure our own community is at the center of it," Mayor Torosis stated.
The festival will be anchored at the new Sandbox on the Beach, a redeveloped beachfront district designed to host major civic events and gatherings. This location is particularly significant as it will also serve as a hub for activations during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games. The choice of venue underscores Santa Monica’s growing prominence as a destination for large-scale cultural and sporting events.
Festival Experience and Design
Organizers have meticulously planned the festival layout to enhance the attendee experience. The two stages are strategically positioned to offer distinct vibes. The main stage will host five acts daily, providing a central focal point for the festival’s biggest performances. A smaller, more intimate second stage will offer a curated selection of artists, allowing for closer engagement between performers and fans.
Beyond the stages, the festival grounds will feature designated areas where attendees can relax on blankets, embracing the classic beach festival atmosphere. This thoughtful design aims to blend the high-energy of a major music event with the laid-back charm of Santa Monica’s beach culture. The organizers’ commitment to creating a comfortable and engaging environment is evident in these planning details.
Economic and Cultural Impact on Santa Monica
The Ocean Way Festival is poised to deliver significant economic benefits to Santa Monica and the surrounding Los Angeles area. The influx of visitors for the two-day event is expected to boost local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments. Furthermore, the festival’s prominence as a major cultural attraction can enhance Santa Monica’s profile as a vibrant tourist destination.
Culturally, the festival contributes to the diverse arts and entertainment landscape of Southern California. By bringing together a wide array of musical talent, it offers residents and visitors alike an opportunity to experience live music in a unique and memorable setting. The festival’s emphasis on local history and community involvement further strengthens its potential to become a cherished annual tradition.
The success of this inaugural event could pave the way for future festivals and cultural programming on Santa Monica Beach, solidifying its role as a key venue for major public events. The careful curation of the lineup, combined with the iconic beachfront location, sets a strong precedent for the Ocean Way Festival’s long-term viability and impact.
Building on a Musical Foundation
The establishment of the Ocean Way Festival is a strategic move by Goldenvoice to expand its presence in the Southern California market and tap into the unique appeal of a beachside music event. The company’s extensive experience in producing large-scale festivals suggests a high level of organization and execution, promising a well-managed and enjoyable experience for attendees.
The choice of Santa Monica as the festival’s home is not arbitrary. The city has a storied past in the music industry, from the recording studios that have hosted countless legendary artists to the venues that have showcased emerging and established talent. The Ocean Way Festival aims to build upon this rich foundation, creating new memories and musical moments for generations to come.
The festival’s timing, at the end of September, positions it to take advantage of typically pleasant Southern California weather, further enhancing its appeal. As the event draws closer, anticipation is expected to build, especially following the release of the full lineup and detailed festival information. The Ocean Way Festival is poised to become a significant new fixture in the West Coast music festival circuit.
