Crime Stats, Pride: 5 Things Coming Up This Week In Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA, CA — May ended with a three-day weekend of relaxation for Santa Monica residents, and the summer months have officially started.

The week ahead is a busy one for Santa Monica residents, here are five things to look out for:

1. Last week, the Santa Monica Police Department released crime statistics for the first quarter of 2023. Crimes such as homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, grand theft auto and arson showed an increase of about 14 percent compared to the same time in 2022. Criminal offenses such as simple assault, DUIs, fraud, vandalism and narcotics also showed an increase of about 19 percent, department officials said. To read the full report, visit the city's website.
2. For those who like to support local farmers and enjoy fresh produce, this week's Downtown Santa Monica Farmer's Market is on Wednesday, May 31. For more information visit DTSM's website.
3. The Santa Monica College Concert Chorale and Chamber Choir will join forces with the Symphony Orchestra and guest soloists to perform "Beethoven & Hunchback" on Friday, June 2 at 7:30 p.m. The performance will celebrate the impact of deaf people in the world and in history, with American Sign Language interpreters included for people who are hearing impaired. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at smc.edu/tickets.
4. The second annual Santa Monica Animal Shelter Open House Fundraiser will give families the chance to have a fun-filled day while raising much-needed funds for the animal shelter. At the event on June 3, attendees will be able to tour the shelter, meet the animals, win raffle prizes, hear live music and enjoy many activities. Festivities start at 12 p.m. and go until 3 p.m. For more information, visit the animal shelter's website.
5. Ending the week on a high, Santa Monica's Downtown area from the pier to the promenade will be abuzz with celebration for the SaMo Pride Festival on Saturday, June 3. The free festival will include games, treats and musical performances for people of all ages to enjoy. The key interactive component for the festival includes the "Colors of PRIDE" photobooths, which will print photos that will be used for a mosaic. For more information, and to see more events scheduled for Pride Month in Santa Monica, visit the city's website.

Have a good week Santa Monica!