Ocean Way canceled due to offshore hurricane: Santa Monica festival called off

Key Points:

• The inaugural Ocean Way music festival in Santa Monica, scheduled for Sept. 26-27, has been canceled two weeks before its debut due to severe beach erosion caused by Hurricane Marie.
• Organizers Goldenvoice cited safety concerns from storm surf and runoff, with plans to bring the festival back in 2027; ticket refunds will be processed within five to seven business days.
• Hurricane Marie, intensified by the "Super El Niño" weather pattern, caused significant coastal damage from Malibu to Long Beach, prompting city officials to prioritize public safety and beach repairs.
• The festival was expected to feature major acts like the Killers, Olivia Dean, and Jack White, and aimed to revitalize Santa Monica's waterfront events and nightlife post-pandemic with a car-free, transit-oriented model.
• Ocean Way's cancellation follows another major beach concert cancellation this year, the LA Jazz Festival at Dockweiler Beach, highlighting challenges for large-scale coastal events amid environmental and logistical issues.