The sunsets in November happen early, even before the workday ends for many of us. But this month, they are undeniably the most spectacular sunsets of the entire year, so rich and full of colorful splendor. And, the Pier is one of the best places in the world to enjoy them! If you haven’t yet experienced a November sunset at the Pier, I invite you to do so this month. You won’t be disappointed.
Speaking of November beauty at the Pier, we kick off this great Autumn month with our fourth annual Dia de los Muertos celebration, and this year’s two-day celebration will be bigger and better than ever! Everyone is invited to visit the merry-go-round building to enjoy the captivating traditional ofrendas beginning on November 1st, (but insiders know that they can get a sneak preview while the altars are being built during the days leading up to the first).
Then, on the evening of Friday the First, we celebrate the niños (children) with activities specific to their age group from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. On Saturday, November 2, the bigger celebration takes place beginning with a 5 p.m. blessing at the West end of the Pier and a subsequent parade to the merry-go-round building led by extraordinary Aztec Dancers. Festivities continue inside and outside of the merry-go-round building for the rest of the night featuring mariachis, Ballet Folklorico performance, a live band, and an artisan market.
I always look forward to these first two days of November at the Pier, and anyone who has ever experienced this incredible event will surely understand why.
But, the November fun and spectacle doesn’t end there! I’m sure you’re already aware that Cirque du Soleil is in town, right next to the Pier. This year marks the 37th anniversary of their first show here in Santa Monica, and to commemorate that, the Cirque du Soleil team will unveil a retrospective art display on November 11 inside the merry-go-round building, presented in a way that no other art show has been presented before. This will certainly be a “must see!”
Ah, November – known to be a time of harvest, of offering thanks, and of wonderful color. Come experience this wonderful month at the Pier with us.
For more details about all of the Pier’s great programming, please visit santamonicapier.org.
By Jim Harris
Harris is the Executive Director of the Santa Monica Pier Corporation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the Pier visitor experience, as well as an accomplished author and playwright.
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