The weekend is almost here and so is your weekly round-up of local fun! From festivals to stage shows and more, we have you covered with what’s happening. Check out this week’s blog below for the top local events taking place April 26 through April 28.
Los Angeles Weekend Events | April 26 – April 28
Pizza City Fest
When: April 27 – April 28
Where: L.A. Live
What: Pizza enthusiasts, celebrate: the beloved two-day pizza festival is making its comeback to L.A. Live. Explore offerings from more than 40 vendors, enjoy live dough demonstrations, and gain insights from pizza connoisseurs such as Daniel Holzman of Danny Boy’s and Karen Palmer, a noted food writer and pizza maker. Featured are several top-rated pizzerias in the area, including Pizzana, Schellz Pizza Co., Apollonia’s, La Sorted’s, and Ozzy’s Apizza. This year’s event also welcomes new participants like Pizzeria Sei and Triple Beam.
Puppet Up! Uncensored
When: April 26 – April 28
Where: Jim Henson Studios | Hollywood
What: “Puppet Up! Uncensored” mixes puppetry and improv, featuring skilled puppeteers, music, and humor. It’s presented by Henson Alternative, the adult-only branch of The Jim Henson Company, and offers a new take on classic Henson characters. The event will take place at the historic Jim Henson Company Lot in Hollywood, once Charlie Chaplin’s studio.
Willy’s Chocolate Experience L.A.
When: April 28
Where: 2346 Porter Street | DTLA
What: Experience a unique, detail-rich homage to Glasgow’s notorious unofficial Willy Wonka event in Los Angeles. This version features the original’s most bizarre elements, enhanced by a charity-driven ensemble of “full weirdo experiential” performers from L.A.’s alternative arts, music, and nightlife scenes. Located at 2346 Porter Street near downtown L.A., the event charges $44 for entry, with proceeds supporting the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Learn more from our interview with the event’s enigmatic organizers.
Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | April 26 – April 28
Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden
When: April 28
Where: South Coast Botanic Gardens | Palos Verdes
What: Feeling inseparable from your furry companion? Enjoy more time together at the dog-friendly series at Palos Verdes’ South Coast Botanic Garden. Visit every third Sunday to explore the garden’s 87 acres with your dog. Humans require a reservation, and dogs must be leashed at all times, including in the parking lot.
Wild Things Are Happening: The Art of Maurice Sendak
When: Until 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: Until 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.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | April 26 – April 28
San Fernando Valley Food & Wine Festival
When: April 27
Where: Los Angeles Mission College
What: Welcome to the San Fernando Valley Food & Wine Festival at Los Angeles Mission College! Dive into a flavor extravaganza, by exploring a Mexico City-inspired menu. Enjoy fresh fish and seafood seasoned with a rich mix of flavors and spices. The festival will feature gourmet dishes, complemented by a curated wine selection from Vinos Unidos Wine Club. Vegan options are also available.
Lindy Lu’s Kitchen Kick-Off
When: April 28
Where: North Hollywood
What: Prepare for an explosive launch at Lindy Lu’s Kitchen! Enjoy a night of outstanding food, delicious drinks, and electrifying live rock’n’roll—all in one spectacular evening!
All About Bulbs with Tim Becker
When: April 26
Where: Theodore Payne Foundation
What: Join Tim Becker, TPF’s Director of Horticulture, for a fascinating class on native California bulbs at our bulb house. Participants will dive into techniques like seed propagation and division, learn how to care for bulbs in containers and the ground and explore the botany and diversity of native geophytes.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | April 26 – April 28
Santa Barbara Fair & Expo
When: April 26 – April 27
Where: Earl Warren Showgrounds | Santa Barbara
What: The Annual Santa Barbara Fair and Expo, scheduled for April 25-28 and May 3-5, 2024, at the Earl Warren Showgrounds, promises a vibrant mix of carnival rides, live entertainment, and local cuisine. Highlights include over 30 rides and attractions, a petting zoo, pony rides, music, magic shows, and an expo showcasing local food, wine, beer, and arts. Attendees can also enjoy free samples at the Fair & Expo Cooking Contest and explore interactive exhibits.
Annual Huck Finn Fishin’ Derby in Simi Valley
When: April 27, 6:30am – 8:30am
Where: Rancho Simi Community Park
What: Join us for the Annual Huck Finn Fishin’ Derby on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. at Rancho Simi Community Park in Simi Valley. Young anglers can enjoy a morning of fishing along the banks of the park’s two-and-a-half-acre lake, which will be stocked with over 1,500 pounds of fish. Early arrival is recommended to secure a good spot, and for safety, no spinners or lures are allowed.
Autism Society of Ventura County Aut2Run Charity Race
When: April 28
Where: California State University Channel Islands, Camarillo
What: Join the Autism Society of Ventura County for the 12th Annual “Aut2Run!” charity race on April 28, 2024, at California State University Channel Islands. The event includes a 10K trail run, a 5K run/walk, a 15K “Hero Run,” and a 1-mile walk/run, suitable for all—from competitive runners to families. Register or find more details at www.aut2run.org.