Category: activities

As fall quickly approaches, autumnal fun around town is ramping up! From harvest festivals to DTLA dog days of summer and more, we have you covered. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood September 12 through September 14.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 12 – September 14 

Jaws: The Exhibition

When: September 14, 2025 – July 26, 2026

Where: Academy Museum | Midcity

What: Celebrate 50 years of Jaws at the Academy Museum with the largest exhibition ever dedicated to Spielberg’s iconic thriller. Explore behind-the-scenes stories, see over 200 original props and artifacts, and come face-to-face with the last surviving model shark from the film. Don’t miss the re-created beach cabanas and the original lens used for the legendary dolly-zoom shot.

Chicago

When: September 12 – September 14 

Where: Hollywood Bowl

What: Chicago returns to the Hollywood Bowl to headline the venue’s fireworks finale with a set full of ‘70s soft rock classics like “If You Leave Me Now” and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry.” Expect their signature horn-driven sound and plenty of nostalgia, plus a sparkling fireworks display to close out the night. Five-time Grammy winner Christopher Cross will open the show.

DTLA Dog Day

When: September 12 

Where: Downtown LA

What: Celebrate your furry friend at this pup-friendly party in Downtown L.A.’s Maguire Gardens, hosted by the Los Angeles Central Library. The event features dog-friendly vendors offering gourmet treats, CBD products, and handmade accessories, plus activities like community dog walks, pet portraits, photo ops, and live music. Enjoy a drink from on-site Italian spot Settecento, with a portion of sales benefiting the Vanderpump Dog Foundation.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 12 – September 14 

Oedipus the King, Mama!

When: Until September 27

Where: The Getty Villa | Pacific Palisades

What: The Getty Villa’s Outdoor Classical Theater series returns with a bold new twist: a musical mashup of Sophocles’s tragic Oedipus and the music of Elvis Presley. Staged in the Villa’s open-air amphitheater, this inventive production is brought to life by the L.A.-based Troubadour Theater Company, known for its genre-blending takes on classical works. Arrive early to enjoy seaside breezes and themed concessions like Memphis-style ribs and the decadent “Elvis” sandwich (peanut butter, banana, and Nutella) before the show begins.

Americana in the Park

When: September 14

Where: Santa Monica

What: Santa Monica’s free Americana in the Park concert series returns with a special one-day celebration in honor of the city’s 150th anniversary. Co-hosted by McCabe’s Guitar Shop and KCRW, the event showcases a diverse lineup of roots, blues, jazz, and folk acts, including El Rayo X, Alice Howe & Freebo, the Gumbo Brothers, and Babilonia featuring Celia Chavez. Head to Gandara Park for a Sunday afternoon of live music, food trucks, and picnicking fun.

Zuma Beach Triathlon

When: September 14 

Where: Malibu 

What: Push your limits—or simply soak up the scenery—at the Malibu Triathlon, where participants swim, bike, and run along the iconic Pacific coastline. Whether you’re competing or cheering from the sand, the event supports a meaningful cause, raising funds for the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu Emergency Relief Fund and the Challenged Athletes Foundation. Distances range from a sprint (½-mile swim, 18-mile bike, 4-mile run) to a more challenging Olympic race.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 12 – September 14 

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 4 – November 2, 2025

Where: Universal Studios | Universal City

What: Universal Studios Hollywood kicks off Halloween Horror Nights on September 4, transforming the park into a scream-filled spectacle with themed haunted houses and mazes. Highlights include a Fallout-inspired post-apocalyptic wasteland, the chilling Jason Universe celebrating 45 years of Friday the 13th, and a terrifying Five Nights at Freddy’s maze. Plus, the Terror Tram returns with creepy encounters featuring Blumhouse villains like M3GAN.

Rooted In Us Summer Series San Fernando Valley

When: September 13

Where: El Cariso Community Regional Park | Sylmar

What: Celebrate community and youth empowerment at the Rooted In Us Summer Series in the San Fernando Valley, hosted by the L.A. County Department of Youth Development. This free, family-friendly event features youth-led entertainment, interactive activities, community dialogues, local resources, and free food (while supplies last). Enjoy live music from DJ GeriFree and help build momentum leading up to the Annual Countywide Youth Summit on November 14.

Lululemon Valencia Free Functional Sculpt Class

When: September 13

Where: lululemon Valencia | 24201 Valencia Boulevard | Santa Clarita

What: Bring your yoga mat and get ready to move! Functional Fitness Sculpt is a strength-based class focused on enhancing your body’s ability to perform everyday movements with ease and efficiency. Designed for all fitness levels, this intentional and dynamic workout builds foundational strength and endurance through functional movement patterns. Whether you’re just getting started or an experienced athlete, this class offers a challenging yet approachable full-body sculpt.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 12 – September 14 

Ventura Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft Show

When: September 12 – September 14 

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds | 10 West Harbor Boulevard

What: Celebrate creativity at the 53rd Annual Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft Show, returning to the Ventura County Fairgrounds from September 12–14. This family-friendly event features over 24,000 handmade creations from hundreds of artists and crafters, plus live entertainment, specialty foods, a KidZone, and more. With one-of-a-kind gifts, seasonal décor, and artisan goods under one roof, it’s the West Coast’s largest indoor showcase of its kind.

Summer Season at Theatricum Botanicum

When: Until October 12 

Where: Topanga 

What: For over 50 years, this open-air amphitheater in Topanga Canyon has enchanted audiences with its intimate, nature-filled setting and diverse productions. This season, themed “A Season of Resilience,” features Much Ado About Nothing, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a Malibu-inspired take on The Seagull, and Strife by Nobel laureate John Galsworthy. Perfect for theater lovers of all ages.

Ventura County Astronomical Society STAR PARTY

When: September 13 

Where: Paramount Ranch | 2903 Cornell Rd, Agoura Hills

What: Join the Ventura County Astronomical Society for a free Star Party at Paramount Ranch on Saturday, September 13, starting at 8pm. Stargaze under dark skies with telescopes provided by VCAS members, and enjoy a family-friendly evening of celestial discovery. Dress warmly, wear sturdy shoes, and remember—only red lights allowed to protect night vision.

Ease into the transition between summer and fall with this weekend round-up of fun events! From spooky spectacles to movies under the stars and more, we have you covered. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood September 5 through September 7.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 5 – September 7 

Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Block Party

When: September 6

Where: Downtown LA

What: Grand Park’s postponed Fourth of July block party returns on September 6, reimagined as a tribute to Los Angeles’ resilience and cultural diversity. The free event will feature KCRW DJ sets, food trucks, art installations, and a dazzling drone show. Highlights include an immersive “Little L.A.” zone spotlighting immigrant communities and an art walk celebrating everyday Angelenos through portraits and interactive displays.

Movie Night on the Field

When: September 6 

Where: Dodger Stadium

What: Forget the usual park screenings—this time, you can watch Hook from the outfield at Dodger Stadium itself. The beloved ’90s classic will play on the DodgerVision videoboards, with guests invited to sprawl out on the iconic grass. Before the film, enjoy unique perks like photo ops, pressbox tours, specialty snacks, and even a chance to throw a few pitches in the bullpen.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater Hallowe’en Spooktacular

When: September 6 – November 9

Where: Highland Park

What: Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s family-friendly Hallowe’en Spooktacular returns for a two-month run of silly seasonal fun. This playful “boo-sical revue” features more than 100 handcrafted puppets in a refreshed stage show, now including a new Día de los Muertos segment and a sneak peek at BBMT’s first new production in four decades, Choo Choo Revue. Come October, kids are invited to join a costume parade after each performance—so dress to impress!

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 5 – September 7 

Oedipus the King, Mama!

When: September 4 – September 27

Where: The Getty Villa | Pacific Palisades

What: The Getty Villa’s Outdoor Classical Theater series returns with a bold new twist: a musical mashup of Sophocles’s tragic Oedipus and the music of Elvis Presley. Staged in the Villa’s open-air amphitheater, this inventive production is brought to life by the L.A.-based Troubadour Theater Company, known for its genre-blending takes on classical works. Arrive early to enjoy seaside breezes and themed concessions like Memphis-style ribs and the decadent “Elvis” sandwich (peanut butter, banana, and Nutella) before the show begins.

Sun Soaked

When: September 6

Where: Huntington Beach

What: Kaskade brings his beachfront festival vibes back to Southern California with another sun-soaked edition at Huntington State Beach. Expect a high-energy lineup featuring Meduza, SKILAH, Sidepiece, Malaa, Anabel Englund, Walker & Royce, and MPH. With ocean views, house-heavy beats, and a party-ready crowd, it’s set to be one of the summer’s hottest dance events on the sand.

Oogie Boogie Bash

When: Until October 31 

Where: Anaheim 

What: Oogie Boogie Bash is back at Disney California Adventure, transforming the park into a spooky wonderland for a special after-hours Halloween celebration. Held on select nights from late August through October, the five-hour event features trick-or-treat trails, live shows, the Frightfully Fun Parade, and the immersive Villains Grove—all with shorter ride wait times and seasonal overlays like Monsters After Dark.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 5 – September 7 

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 4 – November 2, 2025

Where: Universal Studios | Universal City

What: Universal Studios Hollywood kicks off Halloween Horror Nights on September 4, transforming the park into a scream-filled spectacle with themed haunted houses and mazes. Highlights include a Fallout-inspired post-apocalyptic wasteland, the chilling Jason Universe celebrating 45 years of Friday the 13th, and a terrifying Five Nights at Freddy’s maze. Plus, the Terror Tram returns with creepy encounters featuring Blumhouse villains like M3GAN.

Free Milkweed Giveaway at Encino Farmers Market

When: September 6

Where: Enicno Farmers Market

What: Help support the monarch butterfly population at the Santa Monica Mountains Fund’s free narrowleaf milkweed giveaway! As the sole host plant for monarch caterpillars, narrowleaf milkweed plays a vital role in restoring this iconic species. Each household can receive four to six native plants to nurture at home—providing essential food and habitat for monarchs. Don’t miss this chance to plant with purpose and make a meaningful difference for local wildlife.

Candle Making with Create. Meow. Repeat

When: September 7

Where: Tansy | Burbank

What: Unleash your inner artisan at this hands-on candle-making class hosted in the inviting Tansy garden. Led by the founder of Create. Meow. Repeat. LLC, you’ll craft a clean-burning coconut wax candle using non-toxic ingredients and your choice of premium scents. While your candle cools, explore the gift shop, sip Cafecita Cafe coffee, and mingle with fellow creators. Perfect for ages 10 and up, this 1.5-hour workshop includes all materials—and you’ll leave with your own custom-labeled 7.5oz candle, ready to enjoy the same day.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 5 – September 7 

Cielo Sessions

When: Until October 3

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Cielo Farms brings golden-hour vibes to a new live music series, Cielo Sessions, set against its Tuscan-style vineyards in the Santa Monica Mountains. Known for its scenic wine bar and occasional comedy nights, the estate now hosts a curated lineup of local talent. The debut features a DJ set from KCRW’s Wyldeflower, followed by a performance from American Idol finalist Jen Hirsh’s Monogem—plus food, wine, and sunset views to match.

Summer Season at Theatricum Botanicum

When: Until October 12 

Where: Topanga 

What: For over 50 years, this open-air amphitheater in Topanga Canyon has enchanted audiences with its intimate, nature-filled setting and diverse productions. This season, themed “A Season of Resilience,” features Much Ado About Nothing, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a Malibu-inspired take on The Seagull, and Strife by Nobel laureate John Galsworthy. Perfect for theater lovers of all ages.

Seaside Movie Night Presents Jaws

When: September 6

Where: Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura

What: Catch a movie under the stars at Ventura Harbor Village during Seaside Movie Nights on August 9, September 6, and October 11, 2025. Each evening kicks off with pre-show entertainment and live music before iconic films light up the Main Lawn after sunset. Enjoy seaside dining, then settle in with your blanket or low chair for a beachy cinema experience.

Soak up the last bit of summer with Labor Day weekend fun! From a gelato festival to community parades and more, we have you covered on neighborhood happenings. Check out LA’s top weekend events!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | Labor Day Weekend 2025 

Gelato Festival World Masters

When: August 30 – August 31 

Where: Hollywood

What: Celebrate Labor Day weekend with a sweet escape at the Gelato Festival World Masters, taking over Ovation Hollywood on August 30 and 31 from 10am to 7pm. Ten top gelato chefs from across the country will showcase inventive, custom flavors made fresh onsite inside the world’s largest mobile gelato lab. General admission includes family-friendly games, demos, and tastings, while an upgraded ticket lets you sample the competition entries and vote for your favorite. The winning chef earns a coveted medal and advances to the global finals.

Cyndi Lauper

When: August 29 – August 30

Where: Hollywood

What: Cyndi Lauper brings her farewell tour to a close at the Hollywood Bowl, marking her first major tour in over a decade. The pop icon and Kinky Boots composer is set to perform beloved anthems like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time” during two unforgettable nights at this legendary venue.

Shucked

When: Until September 7 

Where: Hollywood

What: A “farm to fable” musical with a satirical twist, this Broadway comedy follows a rural town that turns to a slick city outsider for help. Expect laughs, heart, and a whole lot of corn—literally. Don’t miss what critics called a four-star standout during its New York run.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | Labor Day Weekend 2025 

Cinecon Classic Film Festival

When: August 29 – September 1 

Where: Beverly Hills

What: Calling all film lovers: this hidden gem of a festival has been championing rare and under-the-radar cinema for over 60 years. Skip the usual classics and discover obscure and overlooked features and shorts during a four-day lineup at the Writers Guild Theater in Beverly Hills. Expect filmmaker Q&As, special guest appearances, and a Dealer’s Room filled with collectible posters and cinematic memorabilia.

Pageant of the Masters

When: Until August 29 

Where: Laguna Beach

What: At Laguna Beach’s Festival of Arts, iconic works of art come to life as real people pose in elaborate recreations of classic paintings, statues, and murals. This year’s theme, “Gold Coast: Treasures of California,” showcases monuments and masterpieces from local institutions like the Getty, LACMA, and the Norton Simon, brought to the stage with orchestral music, narration, and theatrical lighting.

Oogie Boogie Bash

When: Until October 31 

Where: Anaheim 

What: Oogie Boogie Bash is back at Disney California Adventure, transforming the park into a spooky wonderland for a special after-hours Halloween celebration. Held on select nights from late August through October, the five-hour event features trick-or-treat trails, live shows, the Frightfully Fun Parade, and the immersive Villains Grove—all with shorter ride wait times and seasonal overlays like Monsters After Dark.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | Labor Day Weekend 2025   

Evening Sound Bath & Journal Session

When: August 29 

Where: Tansy | 2120 West Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank

What: Take a pause for self-care during this peaceful evening of sound healing and guided journaling led by Reanna Shay. Surrounded by nature, guests will be immersed in the calming tones of crystalline sound bowls designed to restore energetic balance. Bring your cozy essentials and journal for a night of reflection, relaxation, and rejuvenation—open to all levels.

Movie Nights in the Beer Garden: A Minecraft Movie

When: August 31 

Where: Lawless Brewing Co. | 5275 Craner Avenue

What: Settle in for a blocky outdoor movie night as Lawless Brewing Co. screens A Minecraft Movie under the stars in the Beer Garden on Sunday, August 31 at 7:30PM. Enjoy craft beer, snacks, and a pixel-packed adventure that’s fun for all ages. Tickets are $10 with chair rental or $7.50 if you bring your own blanket—no outside chairs allowed.

Paint ‘n’ Sip: Balloon Puppy

When: August 29 

Where: Dave & Buster’s Northridge | 9301 Tampa Avenue #Suite 212

What: No painting experience? No problem! This two-hour guided session includes all materials and step-by-step instructions to help you create a masterpiece. Every ticket includes a $10 Power Card, and while the class is recommended for ages 12 and up, younger participants are welcome at the parents’ discretion.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | Labor Day Weekend 2025   

Simi Fall Days Carnival

When: August 29 – September 1 

Where:  Simi Valley Town Center

What: The Simi Fall Days Carnival returns to the Simi Valley Town Center from August 29 to September 1, 2025, with four days of thrilling rides, family-friendly fun, local shopping, and live entertainment. Enjoy free admission and parking as you soak in the festive atmosphere and classic carnival vibes. Open from 5–10PM on Friday and 2–10PM Saturday through Monday, it’s the perfect Labor Day weekend outing for all ages.

Santa Paula Labor Day Parade

When: September 1 

Where: 7th and Main Street, Santa Paula

What: Celebrate the holiday with community spirit at the Santa Paula Labor Day Parade on Monday, September 1, 2025, starting at 10AM. Marching down Main Street from 7th to the gazebo at Santa Barbara and Mill, the parade features floats, live music, equestrian groups, and work-themed entries honoring the contributions of laborers. Sponsored by the City of Santa Paula, Rotary Club, and the Labor Day Parade Committee, all are welcome to join in or cheer from the sidelines.

Ventura Nationals at VC Fairgrounds

When: August 30 

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ventura

What: Head to the Ventura County Fairgrounds on Saturday, August 30, 2025, for the 22nd Annual Ventura Nationals Car and Motorcycle Show. From 9AM to 5PM, enjoy a full day of custom cars, motorcycles, live music, local vendors, food, and family-friendly entertainment. This beloved SoCal event draws gearheads and vintage lovers alike for one of the coolest showcases on the coast.

Los Angeles is a city where the wine bar culture is as diverse as its neighborhoods. From the sun-drenched streets of Santa Monica to the artistic vibes of Highland Park, each spot offers a unique experience for both the casual sipper and the connoisseur. Below is a curated list of some of the city’s most distinctive wine bars, each bringing its own flavor to the table, whether you’re seeking a lively atmosphere, a quiet retreat, or a place to discover new favorites.

Wife and the Somm

Location: 3416 Verdugo Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90065

In Glassell Park, Wife and the Somm feels like a hidden gem. This intimate wine bar offers a well-curated selection of wines paired with simple yet satisfying bites. From cheese and charcuterie to hearty dishes like braised short ribs, it’s a go-to spot for both a relaxed evening or a leisurely brunch on the patio.

Good Clean Fun

Location: 868 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Downtown’s Good Clean Fun is anything but your standard wine bar. The focus on natural wines pairs seamlessly with the vibrant atmosphere, where you might find a DJ spinning tracks while you indulge in a plate of seasonal white pesto rigatoni or pasta pomodoro. Wednesdays bring an added treat—a $15, three-glass wine flight that draws in both locals and visitors.

Adams Wine Shop & Wine Bar

Location: 5357 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016

Adams Wine Shop & Wine Bar, established by the late sommelier Ruben Morancy, is a tribute to diversity in winemaking. With a focus on wines crafted by women and BIPOC, the selection ranges from splurge-worthy to budget-friendly. Regular happy hours make it a neighborhood favorite, with food available from Alta Adams whenever the kitchen is open.

Stanley’s Wet Goods

Location: 9620 Venice Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232

Stanley’s Wet Goods in Culver City is as much a social hub as it is a bar. Regular tastings and events, often featuring producers from esteemed regions like Sonoma or Spain, keep things lively. Pair your glass with a charcuterie board or meatballs, and grab a seat—whether indoors or out—on a first-come, first-served basis.

Esters Wine Shop & Bar

Location: 1314 7th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

A decade since opening, Esters Wine Shop & Bar remains a Santa Monica favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for an informative chat at the bar, a joyful happy hour with friends, or a simple yet satisfying dinner, Esters offers a welcoming space to enjoy great wine and good company. Choose your own adventure, and let the evening unfold.

1010 Wine and Events

Location: 1010 N La Brea Ave, Inglewood, CA 90302

Sisters Leslie and LeAnn Jones have brought Inglewood its first wine bar with 1010 Wine and Events, creating a gathering place for locals to stay close to home while enjoying sips. With nearly 90 percent of bottles coming from Black-owned producers, the selection is thoughtful and inclusive. The menu also boasts Champagne, beer, and dishes like salmon sliders and Creole-style shrimp risotto.

Mirabelle Wine Bar

Location: 12518 Burbank Blvd, Valley Village, CA 91607

For a touch of romance in the Valley, Mirabelle Wine Bar in Valley Village is a charming choice. Owned by David Gibbs, the bar leans towards Old World wines that exude classic elegance. Whether inside at the bar or outside on the expansive patio, it’s an ideal spot for an intimate evening under the glow of string lights.

Baby Battista

Location: 3111 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Tucked beneath Nico’s in Atwater Village, Baby Battista offers a cozy escape with its vintage decor and laid-back atmosphere. The build-your-own meat and cheese plates are a highlight, perfectly complementing the eclectic wine list. Keep an eye on their event calendar for community gatherings that make this underground spot a true neighborhood favorite.

Craving one last, glorious dose of alfresco music before Labor Day? Here’s your curated, luxury-leaning guide to summer concert series in Los Angeles from Monday, August 18 through the end of the month—blending iconic ticketed nights at the Hollywood Bowl with polished, free series around the city. We’ve included box-seat vs. lawn strategies so your blanket, bubbles, and skyline selfies feel effortlessly VIP.

Hollywood Bowl: “Maestro of the Movies” with John Williams (Aug 22–24)

End-of-August concert series at the Bowl belongs to the movies. Maestro of the Movies: Celebrating the Music of John Williams runs August 22–24—a beloved tradition led by the LA Phil with film favorites under the stars (Friday & Saturday 8pm; Sunday 7:30pm). It’s one of the Bowl’s most celebratory weekends and a perfect excuse to elevate your picnic game. 

Box-seat strategy: If you’re in Garden or Terrace boxes, pre-order “Supper in Your Box Seats”—a full-service meal from Suzanne Goin & Caroline Styne, delivered right to your box (orders due by 6pm the day before). For all ticket holders, pre-orderable Picnic Boxes and 14 on-site picnic areas make it easy to dine in style. Note that outside wine/beer is welcome at LA Phil–presented events (like this one), and containers must fit the 15”×15”×22” size limits. 

 

Free Fridays: Jazz at LACMA (Aug 22 & Aug 29)

Keep it chic and cost-free with Jazz at LACMA, the free summer concert series at the Smidt Welcome Plaza—Friday, Aug 22 (Gil Castellanos) and Friday, Aug 29 (Trevor Ware & Positive People with Sidney Jacobs), both 6–8pm. Seating is first-come; many guests bring blankets or low chairs for a comfortable, gallery-adjacent evening. Arrive a little early, browse exhibitions, and plan a post-show bite in Miracle Mile. 

Lawn strategy: Stake out an edge along the Plaza for easy in-and-out, and keep your picnic minimalist for breezy crowd navigation. (LACMA’s free Friday jazz runs May–October; these two Fridays are the last of August.) 

DTLA Skyline Sessions: Grand Performances Finale Weekend (Aug 22–23)

At California Plaza, Grand Performances closes its summer concert series season with a two-night downtown flourish: Dave Iwataki’s “J-Town Bronzeville Suite” on Fri, Aug 22 (7–9pm), followed by the GRAND FINALE: Oro Sólido on Sat, Aug 23 (6–10pm). Expect a festive crowd, sweeping views, and a cosmopolitan mix of music—all free and outdoors. 

Bring-your-own (done right): GP explicitly invites picnics; capacity is large but prime spots go fast. Bleacher and plaza seating are generally first-come, with blankets and low-back chairs welcome so long as you keep walkways clear. Consider a pre-show aperitivo at nearby Grand Central Market or a nightcap at one of Bunker Hill’s rooftops. 

 

Community Saturdays: Levitt LA at MacArthur Park (through Aug 30)

For a lively, family-friendly (and still luxe-if-you-want-it) Saturday soundtrack, Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles runs free concerts through August 30 at MacArthur Park—often with dance-ready sets and neighborhood flavor. The 2025 series culminates on Sat, Aug 30, with a KCRW-presented rock-leaning lineup—an energetic way to close your summer calendar. Pack a blanket, plan rideshare, and enjoy golden hour by the lake. 

Bench vs. Box, Lawn vs. Plaza: How to Choose Your Night

• Go Box (Bowl): Choose Garden or Terrace boxes if you want hosted service and elbow room for composed salads, chilled rosé, and that “we live here” glow. Pre-order meals by 6pm the day prior; for LA Phil events, outside wine/beer is allowed (not for leased events). Coolers must fit under your seat/box.
• Go Bench (Bowl): Love the energy? Upper sections offer sweeping views and room for a BYO picnic at a friendlier price point. Swing by a designated picnic area up to 4 hours before showtime to dine without juggling plates at your seat.

• Go Plaza (DTLA): For Grand Performances, arrive on the earlier side with a blanket; pack a light spread and plan for an easy exit via rideshare on Olive/Grand. Picnics are encouraged; seating is first-come.
• Go Museum Lawn (LACMA): Target the 6pm downbeat and bring low chairs to stay comfortable while preserving sightlines. Stroll Wilshire for a polished pre- or post-show bite. 

From cinematic scores to free Friday jazz and downtown finales, the last two weeks of August are stacked. Pick your format, polish your picnic, and let L.A.’s late-summer soundtrack play you into September.

Explore what’s happening in your neighborhood August 15 through August 17 with our weekend round-up of fun events! From concerts at the Broad to the Camarillo Air Show and more, we have you covered on local happenings. Check out LA’s top events!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | August 15 – August 17 

Summer Concerts at the Broad

When: August 16 – September 20 

Where: DTLA

What: The Broad’s popular after-hours series returns this summer with live music both inside the museum and on its outdoor plaza. Curated to complement the Jeffrey Gibson exhibition, the lineup features contemporary Native artists across genres like hip-hop, electronic, soul, and more. Catch performances from Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Black Belt Eagle Scout, M’lynn, Joe Rainey, and others on select Saturday nights.

Friday Night Wine Tastings

When: Until September 26 

Where: Los Feliz

What: A beloved L.A. summer tradition, Barnsdall Park’s Friday night wine tastings offer boutique pours from Silverlake Wine atop the scenic west lawn of the historic Hollyhock House. Guests can enjoy sweeping sunset views, bring a picnic or grab a bite from on-site food trucks, and even tour the house for an added fee. Now a 21+ event, it’s an ideal date night that supports local art programs and preservation efforts.

Spinning Sunset: A Vinyl Wax Fair

When: August 16 

Where: West Hollywood

What: On August 16, the Sunset Strip turns up the volume with a free vinyl and music memorabilia market in the Pink Dot parking lot, featuring local record shops, vintage vendors, and all-vinyl DJ sets. The celebration continues with specials along the Strip, a photo gallery pop-up at Sunset House LA, a happy hour at the Andaz, and an after-party at Hotel Ziggy. Reservations are encouraged for entry and a chance to win giveaways.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | August 15 – August 17  

Midsummer Scream

When: August 15 – August 17 

Where: Long Beach 

What: Midsummer Scream returns to the Long Beach Convention Center for one of the nation’s largest horror conventions. Expect panels with top names in the genre, photo ops, autograph signings, and seriously spine-chilling cosplay. Shop hundreds of vendors selling spooky merch, collectibles, and ghoulish gear to keep the Halloween spirit alive year-round.

CicLAvia—Culver City Meets Venice

When: August 17 – December 7 

Where: Culver City

What: CicLAvia returns with a 6.75-mile, car-free route stretching from Culver City to Venice Beach, inviting Angelenos to cruise by bike, skateboard, stroller, or anything else non-motorized. This open-street event transforms city roads into a festive playground with music, performances, food trucks, and pop-up specials from local businesses. Leave the car behind and soak in the community spirit on wheels.

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, delicious food and drinks, and pop-ups from local vendors along the boardwalk. 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 | August 15 – August 17   

Baby Goat Sound Bath + Snuggles + Bottle Feeding

 

When: August 16 

Where: Valley Glen

What: Unwind with the ultimate cuddle session at this baby goat snuggle party, where you’ll bottle-feed, pet, and pose with the sweetest little companions around. Then, stay for a one-of-a-kind outdoor sound bath, where gentle goat nuzzles meet the soothing vibrations of crystal bowls, gongs, and chimes. This sensory healing experience blends nature, sound, and pure joy for a truly unforgettable evening.

Running Workshop

When: August 17 

Where: 18509 Valerio Street

What: Level up your run game at this exclusive seminar on Saturday, August 17, at 10AM in Reseda. For just $10, gain expert tips on running form, injury prevention, race-day nutrition, and more—plus a live Q&A. Open to all fitness levels, whether you’re race training or just looking to run smarter.

 

Natural Wine Making Workshop

When: August 16 

Where: Reptacular Ranch | 8828 Gold Creek Road

What: Learn the art of ancestral winemaking from one of North America’s top fermentation experts at this hands-on workshop in the Los Angeles forest. Held at Reptacular on Saturday from 10AM–2PM, the day includes a plant walk, wild snacks, and a full winemaking session using elderberries, blackberries, and natural yeast—no chemicals, just nature. Ideal for foragers, home cooks, bartenders, and fermentation lovers eager to create delicious, wild wines at home.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | August 15 – August 17   

44th Annual Wings Over Camarillo Airshow

When: August 16 

Where: Camarillo Airport, Camarillo

What: Mark your calendars for August 16–17, 2025, as the Camarillo Wings Association presents the annual Wings Over Camarillo Air Show at Camarillo Airport. This high-flying weekend features thrilling aerobatic performances, classic warbirds, military aircraft, a car show, STEM exhibits, and a tribute to veterans complete with pyrotechnics. Gates open at 9am with aerial shows from noon–4pm; tickets start at $15.75 for youth and $38.50 for adults.

Bulldog 50K and 25K Trail Runs at Malibu Creek State Park

When: August 16 

Where: Camarillo Premium Outlets | 740 Ventura Blvd

What: Take on the rugged terrain of the Santa Monica Mountains at the 2025 Bulldog Trail Runs on August 16. Choose between the 25K or the grueling 50K Ultra Run, both offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs through Malibu Creek State Park. The 50K kicks off at 7am, followed by the 25K at 8am—register at UltraSignup to secure your spot. 

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 on the day of the show, starting at 5 p,m for $10. Unreserved spots on the lawn are available free of charge (donations appreciated).