The month of May is halfway through, but there is no shortage of fun around town! From art shows to 5K’s and everything in between, we have you covered on weekend events. Check out the fun in your neighborhood happening May 15 through May 17.
Los Angeles Weekend Events | May 15 – May 17
Talks & Telescopes
When: Until October 17
Where: Mt. Wilson | Angeles National Forest
What: Want to peer through the eyepiece of Mt. Wilson’s historic telescopes? Your best and most economical bet just might be one of the Talks & Telescopes events. These monthly Saturday-night astronomy lectures are followed up with a few hours of stargazing on portable telescopes on the grounds, as well as the 60- and 100-inch telescopes, for only $50 (a fraction of the price of the observatory’s late-night stargazing sessions).
Artazan Handcraft Market
When: May 16 – May 17
Where: Pasadena
What: Celebrate the timeless charm of the Arts and Crafts movement at this Pasadena festival featuring more than 100 artisans showcasing handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, textiles, fine art, home décor, and gourmet goods. Held inside Hall B of the Pasadena Convention Center, the event also includes live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, food tastings, and live music throughout the day. It’s a creative, design-forward outing perfect for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship and vintage-inspired style.
L.A. County Fair
When: Until May 31
Where: Pomona
What: A Southern California tradition since 1921, the Los Angeles County Fair continues to blend old-school charm with modern festival fun. Alongside classic agricultural attractions like livestock competitions and local produce showcases, guests can enjoy wine tastings, art installations, carnival rides, concerts, and even a roller-skating rink. This year’s “Play Your Way” theme transforms the fairgrounds into a giant celebration of creativity, recreation, and pure carefree energy. The entertainment lineup includes performances from War, Brad Paisley, Ramón Ayala, and a comedy set from Jeff Dunham.
Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | May 15 – May 17
Venice Family Clinic Art Walk + Auction
When: Until May 17
Where: Venice
What: The Venice Art Walk returns for its 47th year, once again blending art and community in support of the Venice Family Clinic. From May 8 to 17, visitors can explore a curated showcase at 910 Abbot Kinney featuring works from major names like Ed Ruscha, Helen Pashgian, Kenny Scharf, Ed Templeton, and signature artist Alison Saar. Guests can browse the exhibition for free or place bids on standout pieces, offering a unique glimpse into Venice and L.A.’s vibrant art scene while supporting an important local cause.
The Beach Boys 5K & Wellness Day
When: May 16
Where: Santa Monica
What: Catch some good vibrations at The Beach Boys–inspired 5K in Santa Monica, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the iconic Pet Sounds. The event kicks off at Third Street Promenade with a dedication ceremony and pre-race meditation led by original Beach Boy Mike Love before runners head through scenic Palisades Park. There’s even a “Pet Sounds” dog run for pups who want in on the fun. After crossing the finish line, participants can enjoy a lively festival with wellness activities, live music, and a VIP beer garden, all while supporting ocean conservation through a partnership with the Surfrider Foundation.
Beverly Hills Art Show
When: May 16 – May 17
Where: Beverly Hills
What: A beloved Beverly Hills tradition since 1973, this longtime arts festival transforms Beverly Gardens Park into an open-air gallery each spring and fall. More than 250 artists will showcase works ranging from paintings and sculpture to photography and watercolor pieces along four blocks of Santa Monica Boulevard between Rodeo and Rexford Drives. Beyond the art, visitors can enjoy free kids’ activities, food trucks, beer and wine gardens, and live music throughout the weekend. It’s part art walk, part community festival, and one of the city’s most charming outdoor events.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | May 15 – May 17
Backrooms Experience
When: May 14 – May 17
Where: Burbank
What: To build buzz for its upcoming horror film The Backrooms, A24 is bringing the internet’s favorite liminal nightmare to life with a free immersive pop-up in Burbank. Inspired by Kane Parsons’ viral web series, the experience invites visitors to wander through unsettling yellow rooms, endless fluorescent hallways, and surreal spaces straight out of the eerie online phenomenon. Running May 13–17, the activation blends creepy atmosphere with interactive surprises for horror fans brave enough to “noclip” out of reality. Admission is free, but advance time-slot reservations are highly recommended.
Cooking in Community
When: May 16
Where: Cottonwood Urban Farm | 8380 Ventura Canyon Avenue
What: Reconnect with food, nature, and community at this hands-on outdoor cooking workshop hosted at Cottonwood Urban Farm in Panorama City. Guided by health coach Vanessa M. Kuhn, guests will gather around seasonal spring ingredients to chop, cook, and share a simple dish in a relaxed, beginner-friendly setting. Surrounded by chickens, bees, and the rhythms of the farm, the experience is designed to slow things down and encourage meaningful connection through food and conversation. Just be sure to dress for an active outdoor environment—this community kitchen happens entirely under the open sky.
Universal Fan Fest Nights
When: Until May 16
Where: Universal City
What: Skip the scares and lean into the fandom at Universal Studios Hollywood’s returning after-hours event, running on select nights through May 16. This fan-focused experience brings beloved worlds to life, from Scooby-Doo and Harry Potter to Dungeons & Dragons, One Piece, Super Mario Bros., and Sailor Moon. Expect stunt-filled live shows, interactive walkthroughs, and themed bites like Scooby snacks, a hippogriff-inspired trifle, and a moon scepter churro. Costumes are encouraged (within park guidelines), making it a playful, immersive night designed for fans to fully step into their favorite universes.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | May 15 – May 17
California Strawberry Festival
When: May 16 – May 17
Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds
What: Celebrate the sweet side of spring at this beloved strawberry festival, now in its 40th year and bigger than ever at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. From classic strawberry shortcake and chocolate-dipped treats to unexpected creations like strawberry chimichangas and strawberry beer, the event serves up endless ways to enjoy the iconic fruit. Beyond the food booths, guests can explore live music, arts and crafts vendors, carnival rides, contests, and a kid-friendly Strawberryland area. Even sweeter: proceeds from the nonprofit food booths help support more than 20 Southern California charities.
Topanga Blues Festival
When: May 17
Where: Topanga
What: If massive music festivals aren’t your thing, the Topanga Blues Festival offers a far more laid-back alternative. Returning May 17 to the scenic Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, the festival brings together blues legends like Bobby Rush, Kirk Fletcher, and Earl Thomas for a day of soulful live music in a shaded canyon setting. Add in BBQ, raffles, and an easygoing crowd, and it’s the kind of Sunday that feels effortlessly cool.
Matilija Poppy Festival
When: May 17
Where: 400 W Gainsborough Rd | Thousand Oaks
What: Celebrate California’s iconic Matilija poppy at the annual Matilija Poppy Festival on May 17, 2026, hosted by the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden. This free community event features guided garden tours, hands-on crafts, kids’ activities, and more! Additionally, there will be educational talks from master gardeners on topics like container gardening and composting. With the gardens in bloom and plenty of family-friendly programming throughout the day, it’s a beautiful way to spend a spring afternoon outdoors.