Sunset Cultural Center serves as a multi-purpose gathering place that enriches, educates, and entertains by:
• Delivering diverse, high-quality arts programming
• Promoting accessible arts education programs
• Hosting public and private events
• Supporting the activities of local performing arts groups
• Providing and maintaining a state-of-the-art facility that is responsive to the needs of our audiences and performers.
ARTS FOR ALL is a vital community initiative that removes barriers to the arts by offering free, high-quality cultural experiences to populations across Monterey County. Funded entirely through grants and donations, the program has three components:
1. Youth Arts Education – Free arts education for over 600 K-12 students annually through Classroom Connections with workshops led by professional artists in class, and students experience attending a live performance at Sunset Center.
2. Free & Discounted Tickets – Arts Access distributes hundreds of free tickets each season to community partners serving families, students, seniors, and veterans—removing financial barriers to live performances.
3. Free Events – Hosting a variety of free public events, including concerts, art exhibits, monthly films, livestream simulcasts, and cultural celebrations that allow for broad participation in the arts.
ARTS FOR ALL ensures that every Monterey County resident can learn, celebrate, participate, and be inspired by the performing arts.
Sunset Cultural Center (SCC) benefits communities throughout Monterey County by providing accessible, high-quality arts experiences that enrich education, support local economies, and foster community connection. Our impact extends countywide through programs like Classroom Connections, which brings the experience of attending a live performance to over 600 K–12 students each season, at no cost to participants.
SCC’s Arts Access initiative distributes free tickets through nonprofit partners serving low-income families, seniors, veterans, and students. A calendar of free events—such as a monthly film series and outdoor concerts—attract attendees from throughout the region, creating shared cultural experiences that unite the community.
As a venue, SCC supports regional arts institutions like the Monterey Symphony and Carmel Bach Festival, drawing visitors and revenue to local businesses. A year-round presenter of nationally acclaimed artists, Sunset Center plays a crucial role in driving cultural exposure, expanding access to the arts, and engaging community participation.
Sunset Center is a treasure in our community. We are so fortunate to have this beautiful venue and excellent programming here on the Central Coast. Thank you so much for all you do to expand performing arts opportunities and for the Classroom Connections Program that contributes so much to the cultural exposure for youth in our community.
- Fran S., Marina
