Carmen | LA Opera’s Free “Opera at the Beach” Simulcast at the Santa Monica Pier

Carmen | LA Opera’s Free “Opera at the Beach” Simulcast at the Santa Monica Pier
Saturday, October 17, 2026, pre-show activities begin at 4:00 pm; broadcast begins at 6:00 pm
Free admission | RSVP early for a free gift: LAOpera.org/Beach

On October 17, opening night at LA Opera comes to the Santa Monica Pier. As Carmen takes the stage at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Downtown LA, the performance will be broadcast live on a massive outdoor screen, transforming the shoreline into an open-air opera house.

Now in its 13th year, Opera at the Beach has become a beloved Los Angeles tradition, welcoming thousands to experience world-class opera together by the ocean. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic and settle in for an evening of passion, jealousy and some of the most recognizable music in all of opera, including the “Habanera” and “Toreador Song.”

Come early for family-friendly activities beginning at 4pm, including arts and crafts with LA Opera Connects, balloon art, face painting, live performances by local artists, giveaways, food vendors and more.

Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome. Bring blankets or low lawn chairs and a sweater or jacket for the evening. Large coolers, canopies, tents, sun umbrellas and pets are not permitted. The performance is sung in French with English and Spanish subtitles.

Thanks to the generous support of Los Angeles County and LA County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, Third District, Opera at the Beach is free and open to all ages, bringing the excitement of LA Opera’s opening night to the Santa Monica shoreline.