With President’s Day underway, there is plenty of fun to be had this holiday weekend. From Lunar New Year celebrations to film festivals and more, there is endless fun. Check out what’s happening February 16 – February 18.
Los Angeles Weekend Events | February 16 – February 18
When: February 17
Where: USC/Exposition Park
What: Gather treasures from the farmers’ market, strike a pose in a photo booth, and enjoy the sounds of a DJ at the Black History Month market. This event, set in the Natural History Museum’s nature gardens, celebrates Black farmers and entrepreneurs.
When: February 17
Where: Chinatown
What: Participate in one of Los Angeles’ most enduring customs by attending the 125th annual Chinese New Year parade and festival in Chinatown. Celebrating the Year of the Dragon, the highlight of the event is the annual Golden Dragon Parade, which embarks on its journey from Hill and Ord Streets and ends at Broadway and Cesar Chavez, on Saturday, February 17, from 1 to 3:30 pm. Alongside the parade, a complimentary festival takes place in the Central Plaza.
When: February 2 through 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 | February 16 – February 18
Cali Vibes
When: February 16 – February 18
Where: West LA
What: The essence of California vibes at this Long Beach festival is unmistakably weed-centric. This perception is drawn from the event’s 2024 lineup, which boasts an impressive array of artists including Gwen Stefani, Stick Figure, Slightly Stoopid, Rebelution, Damian and Stephen Marley, Sublime with Rome, Ice Cube, Iration, Wiz Khalifa, the Roots, Shaggy, and Sean Paul, along with many others.
Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure
When: Until February 18
Where: Anaheim
What: Celebrate the Lunar New Year at “the happiest place on earth” – Disney California Adventure. Embracing the Year of the Dragon, the park is hosting a month-long multicultural festival. Children will enjoy photo opportunities and parade processions featuring Mulan, Mushu, Mickey, and Minnie Mouse. Meanwhile, adults can indulge in a delightful culinary experience with flavors from China, Korea, and Vietnam.
Lunar New Year at Santa Monica Place
When: February 17
Where: Rolling Hills / RanchoPalos Verdes
What: Santa Monica Place celebrates the Lunar New Year featuring Chinese lion dance shows, red envelope specials, and cherry blossom wishing trees. Leading up to the festivities on February 17, you have the opportunity to join a holiday-themed cooking class at the Gourmandise School on February 10 at 6 pm, priced at $125.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | February 16 – February 18
When: February 17
Where: City of Santa Clarita: Newhall Community Center
What: Embark on an exhilarating silent film site tour that includes stops at Buster Keaton Studios, Chaplin Studios, Hollywood Forever Cemetery, and Hollywood Heritage Museum. The “Bustour” Keaton is priced at $60 per person, which also covers the cost of lunch.
When: February 17
Where: Burbank
What: Los Angeles, get ready for a speakeasy party like no other! Drink cocktails this Valentine’s weekend while solving a murder mystery in an authentic Los Angeles Speakeasy. Part escape room, part performance, part party, this immersive show will have you partying like Gatsby while finding the clues to whodunnit.
When: February 18
Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys
What: On Sunday, Feb 18, 2024, join globally renowned choreographer, Paul Becker for an extraordinary dance event for all ages to pro. You’ve seen Paul’s creative choreography on HBO’s “The Last of Us”, Disney’s “Descendants”, “Prom Pact”, “Ralph Breaks the Internet”, “The Kissing Booth Franchise”, “Twilight”, “The Muppets”, and in over 300 more sensational productions. He is currently wrapped choreographing Disney’s “Tron” reboot. He is starting up a new musical series “Torch” this spring, followed by an upcoming Disney movie musical directed by Kenny Ortega. Subsequently, he will be directing and choreographing the film “Dream Again.” Taking place at West Coast Dance Theater, this event will most likely be Paul’s only class in Los Angeles for 2024.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | February 16 – February 18
When: February 18, 7am – 11am
Where: 1765 Royal Ave, Simi Valley, CA 93065
What: The 7th Annual Sombrero Half Marathon, 5K and 10K is planned for Sunday, February 18, 2024, on the Arroyo Simi bike path. Mostly flat course and post-race tacos for all runners. The Half Marathon starts at 7am and 5K/10K soon thereafter.
Welcome Walk at Malibu Creek State Park
When: February 18, 10am – 1pm
Where: Malibu Creek State Park | Calabasas, CA 91302
What: Join a Malibu Creek docent for an easy 2 1/2-hour nature walk along the creek and under the oaks. Docents talk about the animals and plants found in the mountains as well as the park’s unique history, including its movie-making past. Families are welcome.
When: February 19, 10am – 3pm
Where: Ronald Reagan Presidential Library | Simi Valley
What: Celebrate our Founding Fathers during the Reagan Library’s 31st Annual Presidents’ Day Celebration. This celebration includes fun for the whole family, including crafts, musical entertainment, storytelling, and presidential and first lady look-alikes. Take advantage of the spectacular performance by the Doo-Wah Riders and Los Angeles Police Concert Band. Presidents’ Day activities are free to the public. Regular Museum admission rates apply to view the Ronald Reagan Presidential Museum and the spectacular Air Force One Pavilion.
