Saturday’s State of the Arts celebration will bring live performances, dancing and community awards to Promenade Square Park.
The Arts Council for Long Beach will celebrate its 50th anniversary Saturday with an outdoor evening honoring the artists and community leaders who have shaped the city’s creative identity.
The 2026 State of the Arts celebration runs from 4 to 9 p.m. September 19 at Promenade Square Park, 101 E. First Street in downtown Long Beach.
This year’s theme, “Solid Gold: Dancing in the Streets,” reflects the organization’s five decades of supporting artists, arts education, public installations and creative programs.
An evening of performance and recognition
The event will include live music, dance, community booths, food and drinks. An awards ceremony will recognize artists, educators and cultural leaders whose work reaches neighborhoods throughout Long Beach.
ArtsLB selected Arts Hero honorees representing each of the city’s nine council districts. The group includes visual artists, musicians, storytellers, educators and community organizers who often work outside the spotlight.
The program also includes an afternoon VIP reception from 4 to 6 p.m. General-admission RSVPs and separate VIP tickets are available through the organization.
More than an anniversary party
State of the Arts is also one of ArtsLB’s principal annual fundraisers.
Proceeds support grants and fellowships for working artists, youth arts programs, neighborhood public-art projects and creative placemaking intended to make community spaces more welcoming and connected.
That work matters beyond galleries and performance halls. Murals, school programs, live events and neighborhood arts initiatives help residents see their city—and one another—with fresh eyes.
Current event hours, registration and the complete program are available on the official State of the Arts page. The council has also published its complete list of 2026 Arts Hero honorees.
