There is something special about a city street that comes alive with music, laughter and people enjoying a beautiful evening together. When the sun sets and the lights begin to glow along Main Street, Old Town Newhall transforms into a vibrant gathering place where friends reconnect, neighbors meet and the energy that defines our community takes center stage.
One of the best examples of this energy is Senses Block Party, a seasonal tradition that brings creativity, all-encompassing themes and nightlife to the heart of Santa Clarita’s premier arts and entertainment district.
Old Town Newhall’s Main Street between Market Street and Sixth Street becomes an outdoor celebration filled with live music, dancing, themed activities and great food from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month from April through September. What makes Senses so unique is that no two events are ever the same. Each month introduces a new immersive theme designed to stimulate all your senses, engage your imagination and encourage everyone to join the fun.
The season begins on April 16 with Senses On the Ranch, a western-themed evening that also kicks off the excitement leading into the 30th Anniversary Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival weekend. Guests can enjoy live music, games and western-inspired activities that celebrate Santa Clarita’s rich heritage. Explore ranch-themed activities throughout the block, including axe throwing, or test your skills on the mechanical bull.
If you’ve ever been to Cowboy Festival, chances are you’ve been roped in by legendary trick roper Dave Thornbury. Check out his classic western rope tricks at Senses On the Ranch, or hit the dance floor and enjoy high-energy honky-tonk music throughout the evening.
On May 21, Medieval Quest invites visitors to step back in time with activities inspired by historic festivals and quests of the past. The evening will feature activities such as archery, skill-based challenges and quest-style experiences like jousting and sword fighting that encourage participation and curiosity.
The Senses Block Party series continues on June 18 with Honey, I Shrunk Senses. This 1980s-inspired experience immerses guests with oversized games and playful surprises that will make the entire street feel larger than life.
On July 16, Santa’s surfing into town as we celebrate Senses Christmas in July, blending holiday cheer with warm summer nights — a perfect excuse to enjoy festive fun months before December arrives. Ventura beaches may be a few miles away, but if you take a spin on the mechanical surfboard, you can almost sense the salty air hitting your face.
Then, on Aug. 20, Senses Time Machine will take guests on a journey through decades and eras, celebrating different periods of music, culture and history.
The season concludes on Sept. 17 with Senses Oktoberfest, bringing traditional German-inspired festivities such as stein holding and barrel rolling challenges to Main Street.
Each Senses Block Party features live music, a dance floor and themed entertainment, along with delicious food trucks offering both savory bites and sweet treats. Guests can also enjoy a rotating on-street bar hosted by local restaurants.
Events like Senses reflect what makes Santa Clarita such a dynamic and welcoming place to live. They celebrate our creativity, support our local businesses and provide opportunities for adults to gather, unwind and enjoy an evening of entertainment right here in our community. I invite you to join us this season and experience the excitement of Senses for yourself. For more information, please visit OldTownNewhall.com.
Councilman Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at [email protected].
