Pacific Park will present a screening of the musical film “Grease” on the upper deck of the pier, allowing a limited number of vehicles
The Santa Monica Pier will kick off the new year with its first-ever drive-in movie night, transforming the landmark into a beachfront cinema for a 1950s-themed “Locals’ Night” on Jan. 15.
Pacific Park, which operates the Pier’s amusement area, will present a screening of the musical film “Grease” on the upper deck of the pier, allowing a limited number of vehicles to park on-site for a traditional drive-in experience overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The movie is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m., with audio broadcast through a dedicated radio station for in-car listening.
The free event will run from 3:30 to 9:30 p.m. and is open to the public with advance registration required. Space for both vehicles and walk-in guests is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
In addition to the film screening, organizers say the event will feature live DJ sets playing classic hits, a display of vintage cars, a 1950s costume contest, live music performances and family-friendly programming. Free popcorn will be available to the first 200 attendees, and bar service will be offered to guests 21 and older.
“This ‘Locals’ Night’ is unlike anything we’ve done before,” said Jim Harris, executive director and historian of the Santa Monica Pier. “We’re recreating a classic California drive-in experience—only this time, it’s on top of the Santa Monica Pier.
