Category: activities

If you plan on staying in LA and skipping all the Coachella madness, we have you covered! Check out what’s happening this weekend in your neighborhood from book festivals to art exhibits and more. Read below for the events to attend from April 19 through April 21.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | April 19 – April 21 

Festival of Books

When: April 20 – April 21, 2024 

Where: USC Campus

What: Book lovers gather at USC for the L.A. Times-hosted event on April 20 and 21, featuring stalls from over 300 exhibitors and panels with literary stars. The event boasts over 500 speakers including José Andrés, Ed Begley Jr., and others, along with a cooking stage featuring Nancy Silverton.

 

First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

When: Until June 7

Where: Natural History Museum | USC/Exposition Park

What: Escape the usual First Friday crowd for a unique experience at the Natural History Museum, where dinosaurs meet DJs. From February through June, on the first Friday of each month, enjoy a KCRW-sponsored night of music, museum tours, and scientist-led talks, suitable for all ages. Each event features a fresh lineup of musical acts and DJs, making for a memorable evening at the museum.

 

Bob Baker Day

When: April 21 

Where: Chinatown

What: Celebrate Bob Baker at the annual puppet festival in Los Angeles State Historic Park, from 10am to 5pm. Enjoy puppet shows, crafts, and activities like bubbles and balloons. This year features David Arquette as Bozo the Clown, a kid’s talent show hosted by Kate Micucci, music by Very Be Careful, and an opening by puppeteer Sid Krofft.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | April 19 – April 21 

Wild Things Are Happening: The Art of Maurice Sendak

When: April 18 – September 1, 2024 

Where: Westside

What: Celebrate the legendary Maurice Sendak at the Skirball Cultural Center, where over 150 sketches, storyboards, and paintings from the creator of “Where the Wild Things Are” will be on display. Let the wild rumpus begin!

 

CicLAvia: Venice Blvd

When: April 21 – December 8, 2024 

Where: Venice

What: Cycle through Palms, Mar Vista, and Venice at this Westside bike event, which features a car-free 5.75-mile stretch along Venice Boulevard.

 

The Mean Girls Experience

When: Until April 21

Where: Santa Monica

What: Get ready for echoes of “you can’t sit with us!” at this “Mean Girls”-themed event in Santa Monica. With every ticket, enjoy a meal and side dish (options include “Stab” Caesar salad and cheese fries) served in a cafeteria-style environment, alongside entry to the Cool Mom Bar and numerous photo opportunities (featuring iconic setups like Regina’s bedroom mirror, the Burn Book, and the talent show). Head over to 2020 Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica for this unique experience during its final weekend.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | April 19 – April 21 

Earth Day with Friends of the LA River

When: April 20 – April 21 

Where: Van Nuys

What: This Earth Day, FoLAR offers two volunteer opportunities: a habitat restoration day at Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve on April 20 from 8am to noon, and a family-friendly festival at Frogtown’s Lewis MacAdams Riverfront Park on April 21 from noon to 4pm, featuring music, food trucks, and an eco-marketplace. Both events are free but require registration.

 

Filipino California: Art and the Filipino Diaspora

When: April 20 – September 8  

Where: Glendale 

What: Explore the works of seven contemporary artists—Eliseo Art Silva, Allison Hueman, Anthony Francisco, Maryrose Cobarrubias Mendoza, Christine Morla, Maria Villote, and Junn Roca—at the Forest Lawn Museum. Their pieces delve into Filipino culture and the Filipino-American experience.

 

2024 Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival

When: April 19 – April 21 

Where: William S. Hart Park | Santa Clarita 

What: The 2024 Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival is back at William S. Hart Park, showcasing the essence of cowboy life with sights, sounds, and style. Attend various ticketed tours and performances from Friday, April 19, to Sunday, April 21. Be sure to check ticket descriptions for specific event details.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | April 19 – April 21 

27th Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fishing Derby 

When: April 20 – April 21

Where: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

What: This year’s fishing derby features prize categories for several fish types including crappie, catfish, trout, bass, sunfish, and carp. With an increased prize pool, participants have the opportunity to win substantial cash prizes, fishing gear, and more!

 

1st Annual Spring Arts, Crafts & Antiques Festival

When: April 20

Where: Stagecoach Inn Museum

What: The 1st ANNUAL SPRING ARTS, CRAFTS & ANTIQUES FESTIVAL invites the public to a free one-day event at the Stagecoach Inn Museum Complex. While touring the Inn costs $5, visiting the outbuildings is free. Attendees can explore a variety of artisanal works in a prominent park setting.

 

Ventura Earth Day Festival

When: April 20

Where: Plaza Park, E Thompson Blvd | Ventura

What: The Earth Day Festival will make its return to downtown Ventura on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Plaza Park on East Thomson Street. This year’s event is hosted by the MERITO Foundation, in collaboration with the City of Ventura Sustainability Division, and features over 40 environmentally-focused nonprofits, government agencies, transportation and utilities industries, outdoor recreation businesses, and vendors of sustainable food and goods. The theme for the Ventura Earth Day Festival 2024 is “A celebration of our Blue Planet, Earth!”

April is here and it’s time for some weekend fun! From Corgi Day to Malibu Comedy Night and more, we have you covered on what’s happening. Read on below for the top events happening April 5 through April 7.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | April 5 – April 7 

First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

When: Until June 7

Where: Natural History Museum | USC/Exposition Park

What: Escape the usual First Friday crowd for a unique experience at the Natural History Museum, where dinosaurs meet DJs. From February through June, on the first Friday of each month, enjoy a KCRW-sponsored night of music, museum tours, and scientist-led talks, suitable for all ages. Each event features a fresh lineup of musical acts and DJs, making for a memorable evening at the museum.

ED RUSCHA / NOW THEN

When: April 7 – October 6, 2024 

Where: Miracle Mile

What: This comprehensive retrospective of Ed Ruscha showcases his detailed photographs of Los Angeles streets alongside a recreated Chocolate Room. The unique installation is composed entirely of layered chocolate sheets.

LA Beer Fest

When: April 6

Where: DTLA

What: Don’t miss a full day of festivities dedicated to America’s beloved drink at the L.A. Beer Fest. This event features an array of brews from more than 80 breweries, complemented by food trucks and live entertainment. Your ticket grants access to a variety of beer tastings, with options for General Admission or the Connoisseur’s ticket, which offers perks like private restrooms, exclusive beers, and more.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | April 5 – April 7 

So Cal Corgi Beach Day

When: April 6

Where: Huntington Beach

What: Could it be their short legs, oversized ears, or fluffy tails that capture our hearts? Whatever the reason, corgis have won us over, along with the passionate members of So Cal Corgi Nation. This bi-annual gathering typically takes place at Huntington Dog Beach (100 Goldenwest St), near Tower 22 to the north of the southern entry. However, it’s always a good idea to verify the latest location details on the event’s website.

Bergamot Comedy Fest

When: Until April 6

Where: Santa Monica

What: The comedy festival at Bergamot Station Arts Center in Santa Monica unites approximately 55 comedians for a series of shows and panels. Featuring both emerging talents and well-known figures, the festival is notable for its predominantly female-led performances. These events take place nightly at The Crow from April 1st to April 6th.

The Other Art Fair

When: April 4 – April 7

Where: Santa Monica

What: Explore emerging talent at this art fair, taking place at Barker Hangar, showcasing pieces from a diverse group of rising and independent artists. This event is thoughtfully curated to cater to collectors and enthusiasts across different budget ranges.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | April 5 – April 7 

Learn to Curl in Panorama City

When: Sunday April 7

Where: LA Kings Valley Ice Center

What: Have you ever watched curling in the Olympics, heard about it from a friend, and thought, “Could I try that?” Here’s your chance to discover! No prior experience is needed to explore the intriguing world of curling. Come and learn the basics, from delivering a stone to sweeping it across the ice. Understand the significance of terms like hog lines, hacks, buttons, and houses. It’s a great opportunity for families to engage in learning a new sport together.

Dream Mile Color Run 2024

When: April 6

Where: Woodley Park Section 1 (Victory Blvd & Woodley Ave)

What: Vibha Los Angeles is thrilled to announce the return of The Dream Mile event to Southern California this year, incorporating an extra layer of fun with a colorful celebration of the spring season. The Dream Mile serves as the flagship event in Vibha’s ongoing mission to raise awareness about the challenges faced by underprivileged children.

Kids Hands-On Vegetable Gardening Workshop

When: April 7

Where: Hand-Brewed Brewery | 9771 Variel Ave Chatsworth

What: Children are invited to dive into the world of edible gardening, getting their hands dirty and even interacting with worms! During this engaging workshop, participants will learn about the basics of growing their own food. Each child will also have the opportunity to plant a seedling and take it home, nurturing their connection to nature and the food they eat.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | April 5 – April 7 

Malibu Comedy Night

When: April 5

Where: Topanga 

What: The concept of drink minimums at comedy shows seems outdated. However, the idea of stand-up comedy at a wine bar is truly appealing. Located just across from the ocean, Malibu’s Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio offers stand-up comedy on its outdoor patio, complete with heat lamps for comfort. The show is hosted by Sean Leary.

24th Annual Chumash Day Powwow and Intertribal Gathering

When: April 7, 10am – 6pm

Where: 24250 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

What: The Chumash Day Powwow is a gathering that honors Native Americans from across the nation, bringing together individuals from hundreds of tribes at Malibu Bluffs Park. Distinguished as a non-competitive event, it features an array of activities including food trucks, craft vendors, tribal ceremonies, and dances throughout both days. The event is open to the public with free admission, running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Celebration of the Whales Festival at Channel Islands Harbor

When: April 7, 10am – 3pm

Where: 3350 Harbor Blvd, Oxnard

What: Scheduled for Sunday, March 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the 25th Annual Celebration of the Whales Festival will take place at Channel Islands Harbor. This event promises a day filled with family-oriented activities, including chalk art, shopping, and a fun zone for kids. The festivities will span across the Channel Islands Maritime Museum and the Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Market, with a “Gray Whale Migration Trail” through Harbor View Park linking the two hubs of activity.

It’s Easter weekend and there are plenty of hoppenings all around town! From eggstravagant art shows to egg hunts and more, we have you covered. Check out what’s happening in your neck of the woods March 29 through March 31. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | March 29 – March 31 

Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy

When: Through Spring 2024

Where: Boyle Heights

What: In the summer of 1987, Germany hosted a unique carnival where traditional rides were embellished with art from Salvador Dalí, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, David Hockney, Sonia Delaunay, and many others. After that summer, this distinctive carnival disappeared, tucked away in storage for years. Recently, however, Luna Luna has been resurrected in Los Angeles. Thanks to the efforts of several art world collaborators and Drake, the carnival has been meticulously restored and reassembled. It is now open for visitors in a Boyle Heights soundstage until the spring of 2024.

Jean-Michel Basquiat: Made on Market Street

When: March 7 – June 1, 2024 

Where: Beverly Hills

What: Were you captivated by last year’s Basquiat exhibition in Downtown Los Angeles and left craving for more? Make your way to Beverly Hills, where Gagosian is set to showcase 50 seldom-seen pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat. These works, created in Los Angeles, hail from the artist’s prolific period at his Venice studio from 1982 to 1984.

John Williams Spotlight

When: Until May 19, 2024

Where: DTLA

What: In the ongoing multi-year tribute to John Williams by the LA Phil, attendees can experience “A Century of Film” from February 2 to 4. This event, conducted by David Newman, will feature a selection of pieces from several of Williams’ scores, including Indiana Jones and Close Encounters, alongside music from Batman, The Godfather, Back to the Future, Lawrence of Arabia, and other iconic films.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | March 29 – March 31 

Stand Up for Pups

When: March 29 

Where: Playa Vista

What: Bring your dog along to a pet-friendly comedy night at Annenberg PetSpace featuring performances by Greg Fitzsimmons, Craig Conant, Ahmed Al-kadri, Andrea Vicunia, Martin Morrow, and Ashwin Jacob. Hosted by Caitlin Benson and with DJ VFRESH providing music, the event offers attendees two complimentary drinks. A part of the proceeds will go to the PetSpace Extraordinary Care Fund.

WonderCon

When: March 29 – March 31 

Where: Anaheim

What: Comic-Con International takes its distinctive celebration of super-fandom to Orange County with its yearly event. Fans of comics, anime, gaming, movies, and TV are invited to the Anaheim Convention Center for three action-packed days featuring exclusive sneak peeks, Q&A sessions, premiere screenings, and appearances by special guests.

The Mean Girls Experience L.A.

When: Until April 21, 2024 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Get ready to immerse yourself in a Mean Girls-inspired adventure in Santa Monica where you might just hear some “you can’t sit with us!” exclamations. With each ticket, you’ll enjoy a meal consisting of an entree and side (such as the “Stab” Caesar salad and cheese fries) in a cafeteria-style atmosphere. Additionally, you’ll have access to the Cool Mom Bar and numerous photo opportunities, including Regina’s bedroom mirror, the Burn Book, and the talent show stage.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | March 29 – March 31 

Nature Walk

When: March 29 

Where: Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve

What: Embark on a journey of tranquil discovery with FoLAR at this month’s guided Nature Walk through the lush landscapes of the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve!

Vegan Easter Hunt at Love Always Sanctuary

When: March 31 

Where: Sun Valley

What: Join us for a fun-filled day at Love Always Sanctuary, a beautiful Farmed Animal Sanctuary in California! Our Vegan Easter Hunt is the perfect event for all ages. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a day of excitement, laughter, and of course, delicious vegan treats!

All-Age Skate Night

When: March 30

Where: Moonlight Rollerways Glendale

What: Join Moonlight Rollerway for All-Age Skate Night on Saturday night, 8 PM to 11 PM. Entry is ticket-only, with skate rentals available at the door for $7.00.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | March 29 – March 31 

Vegetable Garden Tips – Get Ready for Spring

When: March 30 

Where: Topanga Nursery

What: One can kickstart their spring vegetable garden with insights and techniques from the resident garden specialist. This session will cover soil preparation, planting methods, companion planting, fertilizer use, pest control, and more. After the lecture, the knowledgeable staff will be available to answer questions and assist attendees in cultivating a thriving vegetable garden, setting the stage for a bountiful harvest. The class also includes one 4-inch vegetable seedling of the attendee’s choice.

Egg Scramble Event at Rancho Santa Susana Park

When: March 30, 9am – 10am

Where: 5005 E Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley

What: Celebrate the eggcitement of the coming of spring at the Egg Scramble for ages 10 and under on Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 5005 Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley starting at 9 a.m. Bring your cameras for Easter Bunny photos between 8:15-9 and 9:15-9:45 Call 805.584.4456 for more information. www.rsrpd.org

Easter Eggstravaganza Event in Camarillo

When: March 30 

Where: 1605 Burnley St, Camarillo, CA 93010, USA

What: Join the Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 10am to 1pm at Community Center Park, Camarillo, for a free celebration with crafts, the Easter Bunny, food trucks, live music, and more. Don’t miss this festive day of fun for the whole family!

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Irish way, with a bevy of fun happenings around town. From parades to pub crawls and more, there is a clover field of local fun going on this weekend. Read on below for our round-up of the best weekend events!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Street Food Cinema: Great Gatsby Night

When: March 16 

Where: DTLA

What: Experience the opulence of Jay Gatsby’s world with a screening of Baz Luhrmann’s captivating movie, complemented by live jazz that encapsulates the essence of the 1920s. Master the Charleston with expert instruction, and savor era-inspired gourmet treats and cocktails from food trucks and vendors.

L.A. Marathon

When: March 17  

Where: Los Angeles

What: Starting at Dodger Stadium, the yearly marathon showcases physical resilience and communal unity, traversing 26.2 miles through Los Angeles. This edition circles back to West L.A., ending near Century City instead of its traditional Santa Monica finish. With over 25,000 runners, the event promises excitement not just for participants but for spectators, offering an equally thrilling experience.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at the Original Farmers Market

When: March 17 

Where: Fairfax and 3rd

What: Visit the Original Farmers Market on St. Patrick’s Day to enjoy Magee’s Kitchen’s corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes, along with green beer and Guinness at E.B’s and Bar 326. Catch the sound of Celtic melodies from a wandering bagpiper (12:30–3:30pm) and traditional Irish folk music (4–6pm).

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Holi on the Beach

When: March 16 

Where: Redondo Beach

What: Celebrate the arrival of spring at the vibrant Indian festival of colors, given a unique L.A. flair. Revel in the tradition of tossing colored powder at each other against a backdrop of ocean waves and sandy beaches—just be prepared for your attire to become a canvas. Held at Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach, this event doubles as a fundraiser for the Association for India’s Development’s L.A. chapter, supporting grassroots initiatives in India.

Hermosa Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade

When: March 16 

Where: Hermosa Beach

What: While Hermosa Beach may not be a green-clad shore, it embraces the Irish spirit with its annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. Expect bagpipers, marching bands, green-adorned cars, and festive dogs from the Irish Setters Club of Southern California to parade down the seven-block route. Starting near City Hall on Valley Drive, the procession moves west on Pier Avenue, finishing at Hermosa Avenue and 10th Street, where live music awaits at Pier Plaza.

Santa Monica St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl

When: March 15

Where: Britannia Pub | 318 Santa Monica Blvd

What: Ring in St. Patrick’s Day the Santa Monica way! Take part in this Saturday’s bar crawl for a fun night out on the town. The evening kicks off at Britannia Pub and makes its way through local bars and pubs.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Swingin’ Soul Night – St. Paddy’s

When: March 15

Where: The Mayflower Club | North Hollywood

What: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a night of Swingin’ Soul! Enjoy Boilermaker drink specials, a spacious dance floor, complimentary dance lessons, and free parking. Dance the night away to the greatest soul and R&B hits from the ’50s and ’60s.

St Pawtrick’s Day Paws & Relax

When: March 17

Where: Liberate Yourself | 13323 Ventura Blvd

What: What better way to celebrate St Pawtrick’s Day then with some Sunday Self-Care Paws and Relax time with your furry best friend and mix and mingle with like-minded dog owners.

A Toast To Tony

When: March 17

Where: Valley Relics Museum

What: Pipers and drummers will entertain, setting the stage for a night of music and dancing in honor of Tony McNulty. Guests can indulge in beer, wine, and spirits from the pub and savor a unique taco bar with an Irish twist. The evening will also feature shared memories of McNulty’s St. Paddy’s celebrations, arcade games, and beverages for all ages. 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Moorpark College Theatre Arts Presents “Sweeney Todd”

When: March 15, 8pm – 10pm

Where: Moorpark College

What: Moorpark College Theatre Arts Department presents Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Composer/lyricist Stephen Sondheim’s perfect score, Sweeney Todd is lush, operatic, and full of soaring beauty, pitch-black comedy, and stunning terror. Don’t miss these outstanding musical performances!

Bark in the Park at Conejo Creek Park North

When: March 16, 9am – 12pm

Where: 1379 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks

What: Join us for a tail-wagging good time at Bark in the Park! This pup-tacular event is happening on Saturday, March 16, 2024, from 9 AM to noon at Conejo Creek Park North, right behind the Thousand Oaks Library. Get ready for a dog costume contest, racetrack, entertainers, agility course, and plenty of vendors. Remember, friendly dogs only, and keep them leashed. It’s all free, with food for purchase. Don’t miss out on the furry fun!

St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Ventura

When: March 16, 10am – 12pm

Where: 211 E. Main Street, Ventura

What: Get your green on and join the fun at the Ventura Elks Lodge #1430’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Ventura! Kicking off in front of the San Buenaventura Mission on East Main Street, this festive march will make its way up to the corner of North Chestnut and East Main. With room for up to 100 entrants, it’s a celebration not to be missed. Let’s paint the town green!

The Arts District in Los Angeles is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood filled with art galleries, restaurants, and shops. If you’re looking to spend a day exploring this unique neighborhood, we’ve got you covered.

The Arts District | In the AM

Start Your Day with Coffee and Breakfast

To kickstart your day, head to Zinc Cafe & Market, located on Mateo Street. The cafe is known for its artisanal coffee and fresh pastries. You can enjoy your breakfast on the outdoor patio and take in the vibrant street art that decorates the walls of the surrounding buildings.

Explore the Art Galleries

After breakfast, take a stroll to the Hauser & Wirth art gallery, which features a range of contemporary art exhibitions from renowned artists. The gallery also hosts talks and events, so be sure to check their schedule beforehand. Other notable galleries in the area include the Corey Helford Gallery and the Nicodim Gallery.

Shop at the Unique Boutiques

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, the Arts District has plenty of unique boutiques to explore. Make a stop at Alchemy Works, a lifestyle boutique that features clothing, home decor, and handmade goods from local artists. Another great option is Apolis, which offers men’s clothing and accessories made with sustainable and ethical practices.

 

The Arts District | In the Afternoon

 

Grab Lunch at Wurstkuche

For lunch, make your way to Wurstkuche, a popular German-style sausage and beer hall on 3rd Street. The menu features a variety of unique sausage options, including rattlesnake and rabbit, as well as vegetarian options. Wash it down with a cold beer or cider from their extensive selection.

Visit the Arts District Brewing Company

After lunch, head to the Arts District Brewing Company for a beer tasting. The brewery features a large selection of craft beers, many of which are brewed on-site. You can also play a round of darts or shuffleboard while you sip your beer.

The Arts District | In the Evening

End the Day with Dinner at Bestia

For dinner, make a reservation at Bestia, a contemporary Italian restaurant that has earned a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles. The menu features handmade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and an extensive wine list. Be sure to save room for dessert because Bestia’s house-made gelato is a must!

From coffee to art to beer, the Arts District in Los Angeles has something for everyone. Follow this guide to experience some of the best that the neighborhood has to offer. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Arts District is a must-see destination for anyone who loves art, food, and culture.