The following is a submission from the Pier Corporation.
The Santa Monica Pier Corporation (SMPC) invites the community to celebrate an evening of connection, cocktails, and purpose at its inaugural fundraising event, “A PIERfect Benefit,” on Saturday, September 6, at the historic Merry Go-Round Building on the Santa Monica Pier, from 3:30–7:30 p.m. As the sun sets over the Pacific, guests will enjoy a golden hour gathering filled with food, fun, and heartfelt moments—supporting one of California’s most cherished landmarks.
More than just a fundraiser, “A PIERfect Benefit” marks the first official benefit event produced by SMPC and the debut of the Santa Monica Pier Awards, honoring extraordinary individuals who have shaped the Pier’s legacy. This year’s 2025 Pier Award honorees include:
– Judy Abdo, an original Pier Corporation board member and leading advocate during the 1980s post-storm restoration who ensured public access to the Pier would always remain free.
– Larry Barber, Chair of the 1970s “Friends of the Santa Monica Pier,” who led the grassroots movement that saved the Pier from demolition in 1972–73.
SMPC is proud to announce that both Abdo and Barber will each be presented with State of California-issued commendations recognizing their outstanding contributions to the Pier. Additional program highlights will include a commendation from California State Senator Ben Allen.
The event also coincides with the Pier’s 116th birthday on September 9, making the evening a tribute to both history and community.
Originally slated for March, the event was respectfully rescheduled following the Palisades fire. In response, the Pier will donate 10% of all ticket sales to the Pali Strong Foundation, a community-led effort providing direct relief to those impacted by the fires—ensuring the event celebrates resilience as much as it does legacy.
Entertainment for the evening includes live music by The Botanical Pursuit, as well as vintage vinyl sets by d.j. Hand Crank, spinning nostalgic tunes to match the carousel setting. Guests will also be joined by Santa Monica City officials, including Mayor Lana Negrete, along with special guest Jeff Ho—legendary Zephyr Surfboards founder and creator of the famed Z-Boys surf and skate team—who will share personal Pier stories.
Guests will enjoy signature cocktails, curated appetizers, and engaging programming that reflects the Pier’s vibrant past, present, and future. All proceeds will benefit SMPC’s mission to keep the Pier magical, meaningful, and accessible for all.
“This event kicks off a new tradition for one of the most iconic places in California,” said Jim Harris, Executive Director and Historian of the Santa Monica Pier Corporation. “We’re not the City—we’re a nonprofit with heart, and we rely on the generosity of the community to continue curating the Pier experience for locals, visitors, and admirers alike.”
Despite popular misconception, the Santa Monica Pier Corporation is not fully funded by the City of Santa Monica, but rather operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Community support is essential to maintain the Pier’s charm, programming, and cultural legacy. As Harris puts it, “SMPC is kicking down the door on the myth that we’re City-run—we’re here thanks to people who care.”
“A PIERfect Benefit” is produced by Santa Monica Pier Corporation, along with these great sponsors Big Blue Bus, City of Santa Monica, Harding Larmore Kutcher & Kozal LLP, Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, Playland Arcade, Santa Monica College and Santa Monica Travel & Tourism.
Tickets are now available at santamonicapier.org/pierfectbenefit25 and are priced at $175 for individuals and $300 per couple. Sponsorship opportunities ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 offer exclusive perks such as VIP access, on-site visibility, and private tours of the Pier with Harris himself. To become a sponsor or contribute an auction item, please contact Dana Moorehead at dana@santamonicapier.org.
Arrive via Rideshare, Metro, Bike, or Bus. The Santa Monica Pier is located at 200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A, Santa Monica, CA 90401
