Join ArtsLB for State of the Arts—a vibrant evening of fundraising, live music, dancing, awards, and celebration, where your attendance helps power grants, public arts, and educational programming across Long Beach.
Arts Council for Long Beach presents
State of the Arts
50th Anniversary!
Every September, the Arts Council for Long Beach brings together artists, changemakers, civic leaders, and the Long Beach community to celebrate the vibrant creative spirit that shapes our city. As we enter our 50th year, this year’s celebration, themed “Solid Gold: Dancing in the Streets”, invites you to gather under the stars at DTLB Live on the Promenade in Downtown Long Beach for a joyful night of live music, performances, and meaningful recognition of those transforming our cultural landscape.
But State of the Arts is more than a party … it’s also is one of ArtsLB’s largest annual fundraising events. Your attendance, donations, and support directly power artist grants, youth programs, public art installations, and the creative economy of Long Beach.
In a year where public arts funding is being erased, your presence matters more than ever.
Funds raised at State of the Arts support:
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Public Art Projects that beautify neighborhoods and reflect diverse community stories
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Fellowships and Grants for working artists, educators, and youth
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Creative Placemaking initiatives that promote safety, healing, and belonging
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Free Events and Programs that make the arts accessible citywide
Your contribution helps us make Long Beach a city where every artist can thrive, and every resident has access to creativity.
CLICK BELOW: DIGITAL PROGRAM
State of the Arts Ceremony
Saturday, September 19
4PM to 9PM
Promenade Square Park
101 E 1st Street, Long Beach, CA 90802
3rd Annual Nash Bash
Join us for the 3rd Annual Nash Bash, an exclusive VIP reception from 4–6 PM. Mingle with artists, community leaders, and arts advocates while enjoying craft cocktails, gourmet bites, and lively conversation before the main event.
State of the Arts 2026 Schedule
4:00 PM — 6:00 PM: VIP Lounge at Promenade Square Park
- Mix and mingle with fellow donors, elected officials, and special guests. VIP ticket holders will have exclusive access to the VIP lounge area with food, along with a dedicated VIP bar (2 drink tickets included with each VIP ticket purchased).
4:00 PM — 9:00 PM: State of the Arts Celebration Begins at Promenade Square Park
- Welcome Remarks from Special Guests and ArtsLB Leadership
- Dancing and mingling
- Award Ceremony honoring Long Beach’s visionary artists, educators, and leaders
- Live Performances by local musicians, dancers, and performers
- Food, drinks, community booths, and more!
Gallery from Past State of the Arts
This event is made possible by generous support from the following partners:
Major Sponsors
Signature Sponsors
Contributing Sponsors
Additional Support From Our Community Partners
Special thanks to our Council District Partners
Special thanks to our Raffle prize donors
Big Bous Tours
Black Angus
Bower Museum
Dave & Busters
Domenico’s Belmont Shores
Harbor Breeze Cruises
Long Beach City College Theater
Long Beach Symphony
Music Mayhem
Olive & Rose
Pacific Park
Pretend City
Queen Mary
Second Wind
Skirball Center
State of the Arts Vendors
Stonefire Grill
The Broad
The Getty Center
Ubuntu Café
Special Thanks to our Vendors
Chis’ Stitches
Creations by Nana
Dee
Ezra Painted Rocks
Fair Trade
Frida Xhitlaly
4 Everlasting Plushies
Genesis Bracelet
Handmade Plushies
Jamie D. Evans Handmade
JILL’S ROOM
LBCC jewelry dep. Local artist
LBCC ceramics dep local artist
ONYX
PB&J Snacking
Ribs Chicken Hotlinks Tritip
Sanusivision
Sensory Flight
Tanya Monique Jewelry
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