September 9th has passed, and the Pier enjoyed an amazing birthday party. Nevertheless, people keep coming, and the Pier keeps welcoming. The Carousel thrives, Pacific Park thrills, fishermen angle away their days while crowds gather to watch the sun set over Malibu. Old friends - one of them a travelling circus - have since come to share in the joyous Centennial atmosphere.
For those who missed it, and those who wish to revisit it, the Santa Monica Pier Centennial Celebration was a tremendous success - a once in a lifetime event that people will talk about for generations. At dawn a multi-denominational service was held, christening the Pier as it embarks on its next 100 years. Press swarmed the Pier throughout the day, asking visitors to share their favorite memories. Later that afternoon Santa Monica Mayor Ken Genser, along with numerous other city officials and long-time Pier devotees, gathered underneath the famous arched blue neon sign for a ceremonial ribbon cutting, dedication and "re-opening" of the Pier for its next 100 years. A 100-minute party ensued, highlighted with performances by musical groups Vybration, The Big Bamboo Steel Band and legendary surf guitarist Dick Dale. Capping it all off was a 25-minute fireworks finale set to a musical score covering the Pier's first ten decades.
