It's the city that's proved irresistible for Chappell Roan and marked the finish line for fictional character Forrest Gump. Santa Monica easily sits among the pantheon of iconic Southern California communities due to its combination of weather, beach backdrop, energy and friendliness. Yet, that lore has been chipped away by sexual scandal, stagnation and, more recently, by another bubbling calamity.
On Sunday, October 19, 2025, the iconic Santa Monica Pier will host this premier food and beverage event, marking not only the return of the city's favorite seafood extravaganza but also commemorating Santa Monica's remarkable 150th anniversary milestone. This year's festival carries extra significance as the official closing event for LA Tech Week, bridging the gap between innovation and culinary excellence while showcasing why the food and beverage industry continues to evolve at the intersection of technology and tradition.
"We've had such a rich history here," said Chris Anderson, who along with his father Michael Anderson owns the famous spot, which has long been described as a high-class dive bar and classy joint that's pretty much remained the same since it opened in 1959.
Three deputies were killed Friday in an explosion at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Biscailuz Center Training Academy in East L.A. while handling explosive materials.
The Pike amusement park opened in 1902 and lasted until 1979, becoming a notorious hangout with a reputation for unsavory activities, and even had a corpse exhibited as a sideshow.
"Feeding wildlife creates an imbalance in native ecology as animals become dependent on humans, leading to various health risks for both the animals and humans."