Santa Monica Pier Centennial tips

The Santa Monica Pier's Centennial is quickly approaching! Below is a list of suggestions to ensure the safety and well-being of all who visit the Santa Monica Pier for this memorable and historic event. For all planning to attend the festivities, the following are worthwhile pointers to keep in mind.

Arrive Early: It is expected that the Pier's maximum capacity will be quickly reached during the festivities. Once the full capacity is met, the Pier deck will close its entry. For this reason, it is recommended that those planning on attending the celebration arrive early (by 5pm). Please note that although the Pier provides great view of the fireworks, the best viewing areas are at the beach spanning lifeguard stations 14 and 15 North of the pier to lifeguard stations 16 and 17 South of the Pier.

Stay A While: May we suggest that attendees plan on staying for the night? Many of our area hotels and restaurants are offering great specials and viewing locations to help you celebrate the 100-year mark. Click on santamonica.com to explore what is being offered. Come early in the day and enjoy the many features of this special event. Bring a sweater and anything else you may need later in the evening.

Avoid Parking Woes: Hundreds of thousands are expected to attend the celebration on September 9th so parking in Santa Monica will be in short supply. In addition, parking costs are going to be raised for the day of the Centennial Celebration in the downtown areas. Attendees, as well as those just visiting Santa Monica on the day-of, are urged to use public transportation, such as the Big Blue Bus, or other more efficient ways of travel, such as biking or even walking. Free bike valet will be available at Palisades Park at the top of the Pier, as well as at the South end of the Pier. If set on taking a car, plan ahead and check up-to-the-moment parking availability online for all nearby parking structures and lots, and maybe even consider carpooling.

Smoking? Know Where to go: In support of Santa Monica's effort for sustainability, as well as the health and well-being of all who live in and visit the Santa Monica area, the City of Santa Monica recently enacted a citywide smoking ban to protect all from secondhand smoke. Smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of any public entryway, as well as on the majority of the Santa Monica Pier. Nevertheless, smoking is allowed in certain, designated smoking areas located around the city and on the Pier. If unable to find such a location, ask for information at local businesses.

No Alcohol Please: To maintain a safe and wholesome atmosphere for the event, there will be no alcohol permitted at the celebration. Police officers and security will be on high alert during the Centennial Celebration so visitors are urged to play it safe in order to ensure that all are able to have fun.

The City of Santa Monica is known for being the ultimate Southern California beach locale, reputed for its history, beauty and wealth of spirit. The experiences and concerns of all who choose to live in and come to Santa Monica are of the highest concern and for this reason, all are urged to follow these helpful tips in order to best enjoy the city, the Santa Monica Pier and all that this one-of-a-kind destination has to offer.

The Centennial of the Santa Monica Pier, one of Southern California's most beloved and iconic treasures, will be held on September 9, 2009. It will be one the most unforgettable and special events to be held in the City of Santa Monica and we look forward to a safe and fun celebration for all to enjoy. In addition to the helpful tips above, Santa Monica Convention and Visitors Bureau (SMCVB) is providing a list of 100 Free Things To Do In Santa Monica, in honor of the Centennial. For more information on any of the above tips, please call (800) 544-5319 or email info@santamonica.com.

In addition to the helpful tips above, Santa Monica Convention and Visitors Bureau (SMCVB) is providing a list of 100 Free Things To Do In Santa Monica, in honor of the Centennial.

About Santa Monica Convention & Visitors Bureau Santa Monica Convention & Visitors Bureau (SMCVB) is a non-profit organization designed to increase visitor expenditures, tourism revenues and local employment opportunities through the promotion of Santa Monica as a travel destination. For travel and accommodation information or a free copy of the Official Visitors Guide, the public can write to the Santa Monica Visitor Center, 1920 Main Street Suite B, Santa Monica, CA 90405; call (310) 393-7593; visit http://www.santamonica.com; or email info@santamonica.com.