May is flying by and with it comes a bevy of fun happening all around town. With warmer weather and summer just around the corner, there is no better time to explore your neighborhood. Check out what’s happening from LA to the Westside and Conejo to San Fernando Valley from May 17 through May 19.
Los Angeles Weekend Events | May 17 – May 19
Cinespia
When: Until June 29
Where: Various Locations
What: The summer screening series is back, kicking off the season with events at L.A. State Historic Park, featuring “Mamma Mia!” on May 10 and “The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” on May 17. The series then moves to the Rose Bowl for a screening of “Almost Famous” on May 25, before returning to Hollywood Forever Cemetery later in the month.
John Williams Spotlight
When: May 18 – May 19
Where: Disney Concert Hall | DTLA
What: Can’t get enough of John Williams’ magic at the Bowl? The LA Phil celebrates the legendary composer with two years of live scores and concerts at Disney Hall. The series culminates with an evening led by Gustavo Dudamel, featuring a suite from Harry Potter (May 18, 19).
Beverly Hills Art Show
When: May 18 – May 19
Where: Beverly Gardens Park
What: Since 1973, artists have gathered at Beverly Gardens Park every spring and fall for a vibrant festival, previously known as the Affaire in the Gardens. This year, 230 artists will display their works, including paintings, sculptures, watercolors, and photography. Set along four blocks of Santa Monica Boulevard between Rodeo and Rexford Drive, the event offers something for everyone, with free kids’ activities, food trucks, and beer and wine gardens featuring live music.
Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | May 17 – May 19
MAINopoly: A Taste of Main Street
When: May 19
Where: Main Street Santa Monica
What: To entertain and support the Westside community, much of Santa Monica’s Main Street will transform into an interactive Monopoly board game. Attendees will receive “MAINopoly dollars” to exchange for food tastings at top establishments like Ashland Hill, Holey Grail Donuts, Jameson’s Pub, the Victorian, and Pasjoli. Enjoy dishes and drinks, and check out the “Go to Jail” VIP lounge and beer garden for a special experience.
Venice Family Clinic Art Walk + Auction
When: Until May 19
Where: Venice
What: The Venice Artwalk is back for its 45th year, supporting the Venice Family Clinic through an auction and offering a free chance to explore the Venice and broader L.A. art scene. From May 10 to 19, visit 910 Abbot Kinney to view artworks by Ed Ruscha, Larry Bell, Ed Moses, Alison Saar, Kenny Scharf, Patrisse Cullors, Sayre Gomez, and others.
SOAR
When: Until August 31, 2024
Where: Palos Verdes
What: Explore a pavilion filled with fluttering butterflies and observe a chamber with pupae and caterpillars at South Coast Botanic Garden’s seasonal exhibition. For an extra $6, you can purchase a flower vial or ring filled with nectar to attract and feed the butterflies.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | May 17 – May 19
Filipino California: Art and the Filipino Diaspora
When: Until 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.
K-Pop Skate Night
When: May 17
Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale
What: Welcome to K-Pop Skate Night! Groove to your favorite K-Pop hits on wheels at Moonlight Rollerway, Inc. This event is perfect for K-Pop fans of all ages, so bring your friends and family for a night of fun and music. Join us on Friday, May 17, 2024, from 8 PM to 11 PM. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to skate and dance to the latest K-Pop tracks. Admission is required, so make sure to arrive early to secure your spot!
LA County Fire Hogs 8th Annual Memorial Ride
When: May 18
Where: Route 66 Classic Grill | 18730 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita
What: Join the Los Angeles County Fire Hogs on Saturday, May 18th, 2024, for the 7th Annual Memorial Ride. This event raises funds for the L.A. County Firefighter Family Support Group.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | May 17 – May 19
California Strawberry Festival at the Ventura County Fairgrounds
When: May 18
Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds and Event Center | Ventura
What: The 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday, May 18-19, 2024, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds (10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura). Festivalgoers can enjoy strawberry treats from over 50 food and beverage booths. The event features artists and crafters, a Ninja Nation obstacle course, live entertainment on two stages, “build-your-own” strawberry shortcake, and more.
Matilija Poppy Festival at Conejo Valley Botanic Garden
When: May 19
Where: 400 W Gainsborough Rd | Thousand Oaks
What: The Conejo Valley Botanic Garden invites you to its annual Matilija Poppy Festival on Sunday, May 19, 2024, from 11 AM to 4 PM. The event will showcase beautiful Matilija poppies and include garden tours at 11:30 AM and 2 PM, along with crafts, guest speakers, and more activities for all ages.
The Greater Contribution Hosts “A Woman’s Worth” Event in Thousand Oaks
When: May 19
Where: Thousand Oaks, CA
What: The Greater Contribution, a non-profit that provides micro-loans for women in remote Ugandan villages, is hosting “A Woman’s Worth” celebration on Sunday, May 19th, from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM in Thousand Oaks. In a beautiful outdoor garden, guests will enjoy live entertainment. See Ugandan dancers, African drumming, storytelling, and enjoy international foods. This exclusive fundraising event is dedicated to empowering Ugandan women and offers an immersive cultural experience while supporting brighter futures and stronger communities.