As summer simmers on, we’re rounding out the week with the top local events taking place July 18 through July 20. From a fireworks spectacular at the Hollywood Bowl to the OC Fair and more, there is endless fun to be had. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood this weekend!
Los Angeles Weekend Events | July 18 – July 20
Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks
When: July 18 – July 19
Where: Hollywood Bowl
What: Celebrate a beloved summer tradition at the Hollywood Bowl as Carlos Miguel Prieto leads the LA Phil in a spectacular evening of music and fireworks. Enjoy selections from Swan Lake performed with the San Francisco Ballet, and cap off the night with the rousing “1812 Overture” featuring the USC Trojan Marching Band and the Bowl’s signature pyrotechnics.
Summer Nights at the Tar Pits
When: July 18 – July 25
Where: Miracle Mile
What: Kick off your Friday night with fossils at the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum’s free after-hours event. Sip cocktails from the Tar Bar, enjoy DJ sets from Ladies of Sound and Beat Junkies Institute of Sound, and grab dinner from food trucks for a sunset picnic. Explore indoor exhibits, hear from scientists, and let the kids dive into hands-on science fun, with a special Ice Age video game experience on July 18. Free with RSVP.
Summer of Salsa
When: Until September 12
Where: Downtown LA
What: Enjoy free salsa concerts at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes every second Friday of the summer, with an additional rescheduled show on July 25. This year’s lively lineup features Gabrielito y La Verdad, Echo Park Project, Arsenio Rodriguez Project, and Conjunto Oye!—all with Super DJ Robby spinning. Each evening begins with a free salsa dance lesson at 6 p.m., hosted by Dancing 101 with Roberto.
Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | July 18 – July 20
Love Long Beach
When: July 19 – July 20
Where: Long Beach
What: Catch performances by Doc Martin, Desert Dwellers, Lee Burridge, Double Touch, Tim Green, and more as this vibrant art, wellness, and dance music festival returns to Shoreline Aquatic Park in Long Beach. Between sets, unwind with beachfront yoga, immersive workshops, live art, a vendor village, a food court, and a dedicated relaxation station.
OC Fair
When: July 18 – August 17
Where: Costa Mesa
What: The OC Fair returns this summer with its signature mix of fried food, carnival rides, and high-energy events like rodeos and demolition derbies. What began in 1889 as a modest gathering has grown into a nearly monthlong celebration, complete with an impressive outdoor concert lineup. This year’s headliners include the Psychedelic Furs with Rooney, Fitz and the Tantrums with Aloe Blacc, Beck with the Pacific Symphony, Molly Lewis, X, and Ludacris.
Sunday Sessions at the Malibu Pier
When: Until September 14
Where: Malibu
What: Cruise the reopened PCH to Malibu Pier and show your support for local businesses as they recover from the Palisades Fire. Every second Sunday this summer, enjoy free live music from Aviator Nation Dreamland. In addition, the summer-long event features delicious food and drinks, and pop-ups from local vendors along the boardwalk. Of course, a portion of all purchases benefits California State Parks, making it a perfect way to spend your Sunday by the sea.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | July 18 – July 20
Shakespeare by the Sea
When: Until July 26
Where: Glendale
What: Enjoy Shakespeare under the stars this summer with Shakespeare by the Sea, a beloved free theater program delighting L.A. audiences since 1998. This year’s productions will be performed by a talented troupe of local actors at parks and public spaces across the county. While the name suggests coastal breezes, the tour spans far beyond the shore with varying local stops.
Native Plant Summer Maintenance Basics
When: July 19
Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford Street
What: Learn how to keep your native garden thriving through the dry season with Horticulture Educator Erik Blank during this outdoor walk-and-talk workshop. You’ll explore seasonal maintenance and pruning techniques with hands-on examples in the Theodore Payne Foundation’s demonstration gardens. Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended for this hour-long session on uneven terrain.
Virginia Distillery Whisky Masterclass & Cheese Pairing
When: July 18
Where: Vintage Wine & Spirits | 16938 Saticoy Street
What: Join Virginia Distillery and Founder & CEO Gareth Moore for an unforgettable evening of whisky and cheese at this exclusive two-hour masterclass. Explore the art of American single-malt whisky while savoring perfectly paired artisan cheeses from Beehive Cheese. A must for whisky lovers and culinary enthusiasts alike.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | July 18 – July 20
Marinelli Brothers Circus
When: Until July 28
Where: Camarillo Premium Outlets | 740 Ventura Blvd
What: The Marinelli Brothers Circus returns to Ventura County with an all-new summer run in Camarillo, July 12–28, 2025, at the Camarillo Premium Outlets. This high-energy show blends classic circus charm with modern thrills. Enjoy jaw-dropping stunts, daring acts, and plenty of laughs for the whole family. Don’t miss this unforgettable Big Top experience!
Valley Cultural Foundation’s Free Concerts in Woodland Hills
When: Until August 24
Where: Westlake Village Golf Course | Westlake Village
What: Enjoy Sunday evenings filled with live music at Valley Cultural Foundation’s Free Concerts at Warner Park, running June 15 to August 24, 2025 (excluding the Sunday after July 4). Concerts kick off at 5:30 p.m. with Emerging Artists, followed by headliners until 8 p.m. Bring a picnic and relax on the lawn for a fun, family-friendly night out.
Heritage Square Summer Concert Series in Oxnard
When: Until August 22
Where: 715 South A Street | Oxnard
What: Oxnard’s Heritage Square Summer Concert Series returns in 2025 for another 10-week run, from June 13th to August 22nd. Concerts start at 6 pm and end at 8:30 pm, with a half-hour break at 7:00 pm. Concert tables can be reserved in advance for a fee. Individual tickets will be available day ofthe show starting at 5pm for $10. Unreserved spots on the lawn are available free of charge (donations appreciated).