The inaugural Ocean Way Festival in Santa Monica has been canceled just two weeks before its scheduled debut on Sept. 26–27, organizers confirmed Friday. The decision follows significant beach erosion caused by Hurricane Marie, which battered Southern California’s coastline over Labor Day weekend.
Festival organizers announced automatic refunds for ticket holders, with processing expected within five to seven business days. The event, headlined by The Killers and Olivia Dean, was planned near the Santa Monica Pier but was deemed unsafe due to storm damage.
City officials and promoters confirm 2027 return plans
The City of Santa Monica and Goldenvoice, the festival’s promoter, stated that the event cannot proceed as scheduled due to unsafe conditions. In a joint statement, they announced plans to reschedule the festival for 2027, pending further assessments of the site’s stability.
Hurricane Marie’s coastal impact
Hurricane Marie, fueled by a Super El Niño weather pattern, triggered severe erosion along the Southern California coast, from Malibu to Long Beach. The storm caused sinkholes in Malibu, forced home evacuations in Long Beach, and damaged the Santa Monica boardwalk. City Council member Dan Hall emphasized the priority of safety for residents, festival-goers, and the Pier infrastructure.
Refunds and next steps
Ticket holders do not need to request refunds, as they will be processed automatically. Organizers and the city are coordinating repairs to the Pico storm drain and shoreline to mitigate further damage ahead of future weather events. The festival’s postponement reflects broader concerns about climate-related coastal erosion and its impact on public events and infrastructure.