By Lookout Staff

March 26, 2024 -- Chess, outdoor movies, Conscious Markets and a Cinco de Mayo celebration are all part of the lineup of events on the Third Street Promenade this spring.

Presented by Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM), the season kicks off with the Santa Monica Bay Chess Club's second tournament on the Promenade on Sunday, April 21 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., marking the return of Chess Sundays.

The weekly event turns the 1200 block of the Promenade "into an outdoor chess destination for the public to engage in weekly casual play" every Sunday through October, weather permitting.

Participants in the events -- which are free to the public and open to all ages -- can engage with new players and challenge multiple opponents, DTSM officials said.

At the Chess Tournament, players can compete within a bracket format for a grand prize awarded to four winners across different skill levels.

Chess boards will be provided, although players are welcome to bring their own chess sets and timers, officials said.

Movie Fridays, a free outdoor film series, will feature a lineup of musicals when it returns to the Promenade every second Friday of the month from April through June.

The series kicks off on Friday, April 12 with "High School Musical," followed by showings of "Mamma Mia" on Friday, May 10 and "Rent" on Friday, June 14.

The events begin at 6:30 p.m. with fun photo ops, complimentary popcorn and a DJ playing music before the movies, which include singalongs, start at 7:30 p.m.

"Guests can bring low chairs (tall chairs are not permitted), pillows, blankets and picnic essentials to relax with family, friends and even furry companions," event organizers said.

The spring lineup also includes Conscious Markets on Saturdays, April 6, May 4 and June 1 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. hosted in partnership with Fit Girl Club LA.

"The markets feature a collection of elevated brands and sustainable products from over 30 local businesses dedicated to sustainability and self-care," organizers said.

On Sunday, May 5, DTSM hosts a Cinco de Mayo celebration on the 1200 block of the Promenade that features live entertainment and outdoor dining. More details will be coming soon.