Category: activities

It’s time for our round-up of fun happening this April 21 through April 23. From live music and food festivals to family-friendly outings and unique cultural events, we’ve got you covered! Check out our curated selection of the best events to make your weekend unforgettable!

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS | April 21 – April 23 

Festival of Books

When: April 22 – April 23

Where: USC/Exposition Park

What: The USC campus hosts an L.A. Times-curated literary event on April 22 and 23, featuring over 250 exhibitors and prominent authors. Visitors can browse bookseller stalls and attend readings and panels. This year’s impressive speaker lineup includes Stacey Abrams, Laura Dern, Roxane Gay, and Leslie Odom Jr., among others.

First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

When: Until June 7

Where: Natural History Museum | USC/Exposition Park

What: If you’ve had enough of First Fridays being dominated by food trucks and long queues at your beloved local bars, explore a refreshing alternative at the Natural History Museum. Here, First Fridays promise a delightful blend of ancient wonders and modern beats, featuring dinosaurs and DJs. On the first Friday of each month, from February to June, enjoy a KCRW-curated evening of music that welcomes guests of all ages to experience an after-hours adventure in the museum.

Light Up the Blues

When: April 22 

Where: Griffith Park

What: Discover the impact of the Japanese notion of “ma”—the interplay between form and non-form—on the work of a renowned California abstract artist at this LACMA exhibition. The display features 60 pieces, showcasing a blend of the painter’s creations and traditional Japanese works from the museum’s collection.

 

WESTSIDE & BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS | April 21 – April 23

PetSpace Earth Day Celebration

When: April 22

Where: Annenberg PetSpace | Playa Vista

What: On Earth Day, Wallis Annenberg PetSpace shifts its focus to various animals beyond cats and dogs. Visitors can purchase essentials for small critters, gain knowledge about amphibians and reptiles from the Southwestern Herpetologists Society, or even contemplate adopting a guinea pig.

The Great Los Angeles River CleanUp

When: April 22 

Where: Long Beach

What: Contribute to helping transform the LA River by participating in the annual cleanup organized by Friends of the Los Angeles River. This year, the event expands its offerings to include habitat restoration, guided nature walks, and educational activities about the river. Instead of concentrating on a single location, the cleanup addresses various sites each weekend.

626 Night Market Mini

When: Until May 28

Where: Santa Monica

What: The SGV night market embarks on a springtime getaway to Santa Monica (1324 5th St, close to the Third Street Promenade), presenting a scaled-down version featuring around 24 Asian street food vendors.

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY  WEEKEND EVENTS | April 21 – April 23 

Touch-A-Truck™ 2023

When: April 23 

Where: Westfield Topanga

What: Touch-A-Truck™ is an engaging event for families, enabling children to interact with various vehicles and meet the people who build, protect, and serve Los Angeles County. The event features an arts and crafts table for creative fun, and food trucks providing delicious meals and snacks for purchase. All proceeds support the Junior League of Los Angeles’ volunteer initiatives, programs, and community outreach efforts.

Earth With Us At Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex

When: April 22 

Where: Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex | Van Nuys

What: Participate with FoLAR in the Upper River area as we gather litter along the trail next to the river, preventing pollution in our watershed. In addition to the cleanup, FoLAR will host educational activities to further celebrate the LA River. Together, we will make a significant difference and contribute to the nurturing of the flourishing urban ecosystems within our region.

Moore Lab Spring Bird Migration Count

When: Until April 23

Where: Bear Divide Vista Picnic Site | Santa Clarita

What: Experience the remarkable spring bird migration at Bear Divide. Watch as thousands of birds traverse a low mountain saddle on their northern journey. This captivating biological phenomenon presents a unique opportunity to witness an array of avian species in one location.

 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | April21 – April 23

Community Swap Meet in Simi Valley

When: April 22

Where: 5005 C E Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley,

What: Join the annual Junk in the Trunk swap meet, presented by Rancho Simi Recreation & Park District. Seize the opportunity to sell your items or discover hidden treasures to take home. To learn more about becoming a vendor, check out the registration link provided.

Calabasas Earth Day Festival

When: April 23 

Where: Agoura Road and Las Virgenes Road | Calabasas,

What: With over fifty exhibitors from Los Angeles County and Ventura County participating, the event aims to assist attendees in adopting cost-saving, eco-friendly practices. This free festival, held in Calabasas, offers something for everyone, including a variety of engaging children’s activities that educate kids about the environment while they enjoy themselves. Experience this unique event, designed to appeal to all ages while promoting environmental awareness and sustainable living.

Bark in the Park

When: April 23

Where: 1379 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA

What: Get ready for the exhilarating Bark in the Park event on Saturday, March 18, 2023! Enjoy a day filled with fun activities, including a dog costume contest, big and little dog contests, small dog races, dog entertainers, an agility course, a cooling water area, and engaging vendor booths. The event is free of charge, with activities open for everyone to participate in and delicious food available for purchase

The weekend is almost here and so is our latest round-up of local activities. While half of LA will be venturing to Palm Springs for Coachella, there are still plenty of fun things to do! Read on for what’s happening in your neighborhood this April 14 through April 16.

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS | April 14 – April 16 

TCM Classic Film Festival

When: April 13 – April 16 

Where: Various Hollywood Theater Locations

What: Essential for fans of timeless cinema, this four-day event features an array of cherished films, ranging from renowned classics to hidden treasures, presented by Turner Classic Movies. Experience these enduring masterpieces in select Hollywood theaters, as they were intended to be viewed on the big screen. This year’s selection includes American Graffiti, Casablanca, Enter the Dragon, The Exorcist, and other beloved titles.

First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

When: Until June 7

Where: Natural History Museum | USC/Exposition Park

What: If you’ve had enough of First Fridays being dominated by food trucks and long queues at your beloved local bars, explore a refreshing alternative at the Natural History Museum. Here, First Fridays promise a delightful blend of ancient wonders and modern beats, featuring dinosaurs and DJs. On the first Friday of each month, from February to June, enjoy a KCRW-curated evening of music that welcomes guests of all ages to experience an after-hours adventure in the museum.

Sam Francis and Japan: Emptiness Overflowing

When: April 9 – July 16

Where: Miracle Mile

What: Discover the impact of the Japanese notion of “ma”—the interplay between form and non-form—on the work of a renowned California abstract artist at this LACMA exhibition. The display features 60 pieces, showcasing a blend of the painter’s creations and traditional Japanese works from the museum’s collection.

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS | April 14 – April 16 

The Great Los Angeles River CleanUp

When: April 15 – April 22 

Where: Long Beach

What: Contribute to helping transform the LA River by participating in the annual cleanup organized by Friends of the Los Angeles River. This year, the event expands its offerings to include habitat restoration, guided nature walks, and educational activities about the river. Instead of concentrating on a single location, the cleanup addresses various sites each weekend.

626 Night Market Mini

When: Until May 28

Where: Santa Monica

What: The SGV night market embarks on a springtime getaway to Santa Monica (1324 5th St, close to the Third Street Promenade), presenting a scaled-down version featuring around 24 Asian street food vendors.

Dawoud Bey & Carrie Mae Weems: In Dialogue

When: Until July 9

Where: The Getty Center | Westside 

What: This traveling photography exhibit showcases four decades of creative collaboration between Dawoud Bey and Carrie Mae Weems. Having first crossed paths in Harlem during the 1970s, the duo has maintained a strong friendship while exploring common themes of race, power, and representation in their work, centered around the Black community.

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY  WEEKEND EVENTS | April 14 – April 16 

An Afternoon with Bob Singer

When: April 15

Where: Van Eaton Galleries 12160 Ventura Blvd Studio City

What: With an illustrious career at Hanna-Barbera, Warner Bros., UPA Pictures, Marvel, and beyond, Bob Singer is a beloved animation artist. This Saturday, don’t miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of Bob Singer.

Earth With Us At Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex

When: April 15 

Where: Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex | Van Nuys

What: Participate with FoLAR in the Upper River area as we gather litter along the trail next to the river, preventing pollution in our watershed. In addition to the cleanup, FoLAR will host educational activities to further celebrate the LA River. Together, we will make a significant difference and contribute to the nurturing of the flourishing urban ecosystems within our region.

Moore Lab Spring Bird Migration Count

When: April 13 – April 23

Where: Bear Divide Vista Picnic Site | Santa Clarita

What: Experience the remarkable spring bird migration at Bear Divide. Watch as thousands of birds traverse a low mountain saddle on their northern journey. This captivating biological phenomenon presents a unique opportunity to witness an array of avian species in one location.

 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | April 14 – April 16 

Calabasas Earth Day Festival

When: April 14

Where: Agoura Road and Las Virgenes Road | Calabasas,

What: With over fifty exhibitors from Los Angeles County and Ventura County participating, the event aims to assist attendees in adopting cost-saving, eco-friendly practices. This free festival, held in Calabasas, offers something for everyone, including a variety of engaging children’s activities that educate kids about the environment while they enjoy themselves. Experience this unique event, designed to appeal to all ages while promoting environmental awareness and sustainable living.

26th Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fishing Derby

When: April 15 – April 16

Where: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

What: This year’s fishing derby promises an exciting and competitive event. Prizes range in categories for various fish species including crappie, catfish, trout, bass, sunfish, and carp. With an increased prize pool, participants stand a chance to win not only impressive cash rewards but also top-notch fishing gear and other fantastic prizes. Don’t miss out on this thrilling opportunity to showcase your angling skills and reel in some amazing rewards!

Free Genealogy Fair at the Camarillo Library

When: April 15

Where: Camarillo Public Library

What: Spend the afternoon reconnecting with genealogy friends and learning what the Ventura County Genealogy Society can do to help you with your family history. The Genealogy Fair is open to everyone. All levels, from those just starting (or thinking about starting) to research their ancestors to those looking for help to break down the last “Brick Wall,” are welcome.

 

The weekend is almost here! No matter which holiday you are celebrating this week, we have you covered for local fun. Read on for the best happenings from around town!

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS | April 7 – April 9 

First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

When: April 7 – June 7

Where: Natural History Museum | USC/Exposition Park

What: If you’ve had enough of First Fridays being dominated by food trucks and long queues at your beloved local bars, explore a refreshing alternative at the Natural History Museum. Here, First Fridays promise a delightful blend of ancient wonders and modern beats, featuring dinosaurs and DJs. On the first Friday of each month, from February to June, enjoy a KCRW-curated evening of music that welcomes guests of all ages to experience an after-hours adventure in the museum.

Sam Francis and Japan: Emptiness Overflowing

When: April 9 – July 16

Where: Miracle Mile

What: Discover the impact of the Japanese notion of “ma”—the interplay between form and non-form—on the work of a renowned California abstract artist at this LACMA exhibition. The display features 60 pieces, showcasing a blend of the painter’s creations and traditional Japanese works from the museum’s collection.

Vine & Vinyl on the Roof

When: April 8

Where: Downtown Historic Core

What: Though Grand Central Market may not boast an actual rooftop, its top floor serves as a great alternative—particularly when hosting a party. Vine & Vinyl on the Roof will transform the Hill Street garage into a lively event featuring natural wine tasting, a car show, and a dance party. With each ticket, attendees will receive three tasting samples from Good Boy, Jumbo Time, Wonderwerk, and Wavy Wines.

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS | April 7 – April 9 

Love Isn’t Blind

When: April 7

Where: Venice

What: Could men improve their listening skills in the dating world? This Bachelorette-inspired game show embraces that idea with a single rule: the four male contestants vying for a date must remain silent. They can only nod and draw as host Allison Goldberg delves into their phones and calls their mothers. Catch Love Isn’t Blind at its monthly staging, this time taking place at Townhouse Venice.

Dawoud Bey & Carrie Mae Weems: In Dialogue

When: Until July 9

Where: The Getty Center | Westside 

What: This traveling photography exhibit showcases four decades of creative collaboration between Dawoud Bey and Carrie Mae Weems. Having first crossed paths in Harlem during the 1970s, the duo has maintained a strong friendship while exploring common themes of race, power, and representation in their work, centered around the Black community.

626 Night Market Mini

When: Until May 28

Where: Santa Monica

What: The SGV night market embarks on a springtime getaway to Santa Monica (1324 5th St, close to the Third Street Promenade), presenting a scaled-down version featuring around 24 Asian street food vendors.

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY  WEEKEND EVENTS | April 7 – April 9 

Vegan Easter Egg Hunt

When: April 9

Where: Love Always Sanctuary | 9841 La Tuna Canyon Rd., Los Angeles, CA 91352

What: Join Love Always Sanctuary on Sunday for a Vegan Easter Egg Hunt! Starting at 11 am, the event includes an Easter Egg Hunt at noon (kids should bring their own baskets) and quality time with rescued animals until 4 pm. Tickets are $20 per person (free for kids under 3), with well-behaved companion animals welcome, and remember to wear closed-toe shoes and bring your own water bottle.

Kids Fair Santa Clarita

When: April 8

Where: 20880 Centre Pointe Pkwy | Santa Clarita

What: This Saturday, enjoy a day of fun at Kids Fair Santa Clarita! Featuring the Easter Bunny, complimentary crafts, and an Easter egg hunt with amazing prizes, including a chance to win a grand Easter basket! Take advantage of discounted professional photo sessions, medical-grade ear piercing, and free stroller strides classes. Plus, enjoy a boutique space, raffles, and valuable information from local health, wellness, and education businesses—all in support of SCV Family Promise!

Birding in the Garden: An Experiential Walk and Talk with Diego Blanco

When: April 8

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation

What: Don’t miss this special class exploring the TPF gardens, where we’ll identify local birds and uncover the vital connections they share with native plants and other creatures. Discover resident birds, seasonal visitors, their main food sources, and more. Seize this exceptional chance to listen, observe, and appreciate the stunning variety of birds in our midst.

 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | April 7 – April 9 

Easter Eggstravaganza Event in Camarillo

When: April 8

Where: Community Center Park, 1605 E. Burnley Street, Camarillo.

What: It’s time for family-friendly fun! This free event is open to the public, featuring crafts, Easter bunny visits, food trucks, touch-a-truck, live music, craft vendors, and an inflatable obstacle course.

Live Music at the Simi Valley Town Center

When: April 8

Where: Simi Valley Town Center | Simi Valley,

What: The Simi Valley Town Center presents a free series of concerts starting in April through mid-August. Details are at simivalleytowncenter.com and their Facebook page but here’s the rundown as of late March 2023. All events in the Center Court. Check the Town Center website and social media for any updates/changes.

Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge Easter Egg Hunt

When: April 9 

Where: 158 N Conejo School Road 

What: The Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge Community Easter Egg Hunt is from noon to 2 pm on Easter Sunday, April 9th. Hunt starts at 12:30 sharp. Easter Bunny to visit after the hunt. Free of charge and open to the community.

And just like that, April has arrived, bringing with it Spring and a few more rain showers. As the weekend arrives, it’s time to dive into some local fun! Enjoy what’s happening in your neighborhood with our weekly round-up of community events.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | March 31 – April 2 

LA Beer Fest

When: April 1

Where: Westlake

What: Join the daylong celebration of America’s beloved beverage by grabbing a cold one and gathering around. The LA Beer Fest is making a comeback, featuring over 80 breweries offering dozens of pours, food trucks, and live music. Your ticket provides beer samplings, and you can choose between a GA ticket or a Connoisseur’s ticket (which includes exclusive beers, private bathrooms, and more).

 

Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure

When: March 31 – July 31

Where: Downtown LA

What: At the L.A. premiere of a touring exhibition, immerse yourself in a replica of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s studio and explore hundreds of items associated with the celebrated neo-expressionist painter. “Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure,” blessed by the artist’s estate and curated by his sisters Lisane Basquiat and Jeanine Heriveaux, showcases a collection of over 200 artworks, including paintings, drawings, and a variety of ephemera and artifacts, at the Grand in Downtown L.A.

PaleyFest

When: March 31 – April 4

Where: Hollywood

What: Connect with other TV enthusiasts at PaleyFest, the week-long annual festival featuring exclusive episodes, clips, and panel discussions with the creators and cast of the most popular TV shows. The 2023 lineup features a diverse range of shows, including The Mandalorian, Yellowjackets, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Yellowstone, Abbott Elementary, Grey’s Anatomy, and The Late Late Show with James Corden.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | March 31 – April 2

Stand Up for Pups

When: March 31

Where: Playa Vista

What: Bring your furry friend along to the Annenberg PetSpace for a dog-friendly comedy show featuring sets from Ian Edwards, Dana Moon, Callahan Welsh, Darran Davis, and Justin Klose. Hosted by Caitlin Benson with DJ VFRESH, the event offers two drinks with each ticket and a portion of the proceeds going towards the PetSpace Extraordinary Care Fund.

Yangban: A Korean American Passover

When: April 2

Where: Westside

What: To celebrate Passover, Katianna and John Hong of Yangban’s Arts District restaurant will lead a talk and tasting featuring some of their signature dishes that blend Jewish and Korean culinary traditions. The couple will share the story behind these unique dishes, inspiring home cooks who want to bring a new and exciting flavor to their Seder table.

So Cal Corgi Beach Day

When: April 1

Where: Huntington Beach

What: What is it about corgis that capture our hearts? Is it their stumpy legs, size-too-big ears, or woolly rump? Whatever the reason may be, So Cal Corgi Nation’s dedicated dog owners share our adoration for these furry friends. Twice a year, they gather for a meetup, often taking over the Huntington Dog Beach located just north of the southern entrance by Tower 22 (100 Goldenwest St).

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | March 31 – April 2

Tsakhkazard Kids Festival

When: April 2

Where: Verdugo Park | Glendale 

What: Get ready to experience an unforgettable day filled with activities, games, and performances that will leave your child feeling energized and inspired. Whether your child is into sports, music, arts and crafts, or all of the above, we’ve got something for everyone!

VALLEY RELICS MUSEUM EXPERIENCE

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum.

All-Age Skate Night

When: Every Saturday

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

What: Get your roll on this Saturday at Moonlight Rollerway’s All-age skate night. The Saturday night skate will be for all ages from 8 PM to 11 PM, with tickets required for entry.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | March 31 – April 2

Easter on the Farm

When: Until April 10

Where: Underwood Family Farms | Ventura County

What: Head over to Moorpark to celebrate Easter at Underwood Family Farms. The festival admission covers a tractor ride and a photo opportunity with the Easter bunny. However, if you’re interested in participating in the Easter egg hunt, toss, and dying, additional tickets will need to be purchased.

Round-Up Country Music Festival 

When: April 1

Where: Rancho Santa Susana Community Center

What: Join music enthusiasts at Rancho Santa Susana Park on Saturday, April 1, 2023, for the Round-Up Country Music Festival, hosted by The Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley. The event will showcase performances by Sawyer Brown, Aaron Goodvin, and Justin Honsinger, featuring Katie Dix, Neon Circus, Jimi Nelson Band, and Silver Lining.

Great Race of Agoura Hills Half Marathon, 5K, 10K, 1 Mile

When: April 1

Where: 5550 Medea Valley Dr, Agoura Hills

What: A perennial favorite of the greater Los Angeles area since 1986, the Dole Great Race is planned for a return on Saturday, April 1, 2023, in Agoura Hills. The event is an exciting and family-friendly event featuring many race options: Cheseboro Half Marathon, Neftin Mazda Old Agoura 10K, Deena Kastor 5K, 1 Mile, and virtual options.