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Deets: Following three consecutive sold-out installments that have reinvigorated SoCal’s waterfront entertainment, Pier Play returns to the iconic Santa Monica Pier on Saturday, May 30, 2026 for its fourth edition. This isn't just another festival; it’s a reimagination of the world’s most famous boardwalk, designed for a day of discovery and high-fidelity sound.
Today, global experience ecosystem RASA unveiled a world-class lineup of dance music luminaries and experiential programming for the event’s 2026 debut.
Since 2023, Pier Play has stood alone as the first and only dance music festival of its kind on the Santa Monica Pier. By working in coordination with The Santa Monica Pier Foundation and the City of Santa Monica, the event has evolved into one of the city’s most anticipated festivals.
The event is celebrated for its "bright, colorful, and playful” ethos. Past editions have featured immersive activities that guests are invited to enjoy complimentary with their passes, ranging from vintage arcades and mechanical bull sharks to bespoke art installations and pop-up barbershops. Details regarding the 2026 experiential program will be revealed in the coming weeks.
The May 2026 edition is anchored by the global debut of Âme Live Presents — a bold new chapter for the electronic mainstay. Known for a legendary career spanning two decades, Âme is expanding his celebrated live show with an ambitious new format that incorporates guest vocalists into the performance. Building on the foundation of his existing live presentation, this evolution transforms their studio productions into an even more dynamic experience. The addition of live guest singers brings a new dimension to the show, combining spontaneity of real-time playing with the power of human performance and captures both the energy and emotional depth that have defined Âme's portfolio.
Also joining the oceanfront festivities is a curated roster of global talent, including a b2b set from AWEN and Xinobi, alongside French visionary Notre Dame, and rising talent Darina Chuz. Fans can also look forward to additional surprise guests to be announced. These artists join past performers like Shimza, Enamour, Henri Bergman, Leila Benitez and Nandu to Gheist, Chambord, Magdalena, and Yammagucci.
The Santa Monica Pier symbolizes the quintessential California experience and is one of the most photographed locations in the world. Pier Play serves as a vibrant crossroads for the adventurous, inviting guests from all walks of life to experience the pier’s transformation through a re-imagined day of music and play atop an international landmark set against Santa Monica’s ocean vista.
Hint for the Average Socialite: Sign-ups for pre-sale passes are open now through Wednesday, March 4. The public on-sale will follow on Friday, March 5, at 10 AM PT below.
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