Calendar Events: Frieze Art Fair Lands at Santa Monica Airport's Barker Hangar

Frieze Los Angeles officially opened its doors this week at the Santa Monica Airport, transforming the historic hangars into a sprawling international art destination from February 26 through March 1, 2026.

This year's features more than 100 leading galleries from 24 countries, showcasing everything from cutting-edge contemporary works and large-scale installations to thought-provoking pieces by emerging and established artists. Los Angeles-based galleries, nonprofit collaborations, special projects, and curated food pop-ups featuring local chefs.

The fair has already generated significant buzz across local media, with VIP previews drawing collectors, curators, and influencers eager to snag early deals. Public days are expected to pull in thousands of visitors, many combining their Frieze visit with nearby beach strolls, Pier outings, or Third Street Promenade shopping.

Organizers and city boosters emphasize the economic ripple effects: hotel bookings, restaurant reservations, rideshare surges, and retail traffic all get a timely lift during what is traditionally a slower late-winter period.

City Rolls Out One SaMo People's Academy

The City of Santa Monica has launched the One SaMo People's Academy, a brand-new, no-cost six-week civic education program designed to give residents a deeper understanding of how local government actually works. Open to anyone 18 and older.

Event limited to 25 participants to keep discussions intimate and interactive. Sessions will cover city operations, budget basics, key priorities like housing and public safety, planning processes, and practical ways residents can get involved, from attending meetings to serving on commissions.

Applications are open now and close March 16, with the program kicking off shortly after selection. City officials describe it as a direct response to calls for greater transparency and community engagement, especially amid ongoing debates over development, homelessness, and budget pressures. Participants will hear from department heads, council members, and staff in a mix of in-person and virtual formats, plus field trips to city facilities for a behind-the-scenes look.

Whether you're frustrated with traffic decisions, passionate about climate resilience, or simply want to know why certain projects move slowly, the academy aims to turn passive observers into informed participants ready to shape Santa Monica's future.

Warby Parker Debuts on Montana Ave.

Eyewear brand Warby Parker celebrated the grand opening of its newest Santa Monica location this weekend at 1311 Montana Avenue, Suite B, bringing its signature mix of affordable, stylish frames and in-store eye exams to Montana Ave.

The store features the full Spring 2026 collection, including fresh sunglasses, prescription lenses, blue-light blockers, and a dedicated kids' section-plus the brand's home try-on program.

Local buzz has been strong, with the opening seen as a welcome sign of continued retail confidence in Santa Monica despite broader economic headwinds.