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Weekend Events: April 13 – 15

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (April 13 to April 15) includes a BYOB Classical Music Warehouse Party, Hollywood Film Noir Festival, The March for Science, Whale of a Day 2018, L.A. River Clean Up, The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, a Wayne’s World Movie Party and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

Friday April 13th, 2018

1.  This Friday listen to classical music at a giant BYOB warehouse party. Organizers Groupmuse is making classical music listening less formal and bringing the sounds to the masses in a warehouse in Frogtown. 21+ and bring your own beverages of choice.

2. To the Sea: Dance Concerts on the Pier is a free, three-evening dance event taking place on the Santa Monica Pier from April 13-15. Part of the 17th Annual Dance Camera West Film Festival, the event will feature individual choreographers and dance companies from a wide range of dance forms and genres. FREE 

3. Rooftop Cinema Club returns to the rooftop of The Montalban in Hollywood with a screening of La La Land. Other screenings this week include The Notebook, Baby Driver, Dunkirk and more.

4. Pacific Opera Project (POP) presents a truly unique an immerisve production of Mozart’s Don Giovanni, at The Vortex a large warehouse space in DTLA. The performance will have Dick Tracey feel, with a full orchestra, POP performers, non traditional seating, food and shared wine. Happening April 13, 14, 20, 21, 22. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

5. The North Redondo Beach Business Association presents SpringFest (April 12-15) a four-day spring carnival and community festival estimated to bring out 40,000  visitors for the last 30 plus years. FREE

6. See dark tales focused on murder, mayhem, and femme fatales at the 20th Noir City: Hollywood Film Noir Festival at Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood from April 13-22.

7. The Toyota Grand Prix features live street racing, live music concerts, a lifestyle expo, kids kart racing, dancing contests, food trucks and more from April 13-15. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

8. Art duo Dosshaus transforms the Corey Helford Gallery into a flop-house hotel from the 60’s made entirely of recycled cardboard hand painted to look like black & white illustrations. The exhibit houses hundreds of individual pieces including a “Paper-Thin Hotel” with several life size rooms. FREE

9. To Live and Di(n)e in LA is a 35-person supper club where attendees will enjoy a fine meal, cocktails and cabaret-style performances with the ghosts of the most infamous figures in Los Angeles’ true crime history. Each course and cocktail will be inspired by a different figure and era and guests will come face-to-face with the Black Dahlia; the “Glamour Girl Slayer”; Charles Manson; the “Night Stalker,” and more infamous figures of the past.

10. 260LA will host a Proenza Schouler sample sale event April 10-15 in Beverly Hills with ready to wear, accessories and shoe for up to 70% off.

11. Celebrate the art of monsters and movie magic during Monsterpalooza at The Pasadena Convention Center April 13-15. The monster fest will have over 250 exhibitors, screenings, panels and more.

12. Japan House Los Angeles (JHLA) presents Takeo Paper Show titled SUBTLE, an experimental exploration of paper, on view from April 13 through May 23, 2018. The exhibit will showcase innovative paper creations that will have you look at paper in an entirely different way. To celebrate this exhibit JHLA will host several free air vase workshops where you’ll learn how to make a vase with paper. FREE

13. There’s a Trina Turk + Mr Turk warehouse sale April 13-15 where prices start at just $10. There will be both men’s and women’s ready to wear, accessories and more.

14. Greenbar Distillery has teamed up with The Burrito Project and a select list of local bars and restaurants, to provide thousands of burritos to those in need in the Los Angeles area. Simply go to a bar on the list and order a CITY Bright gin cocktail from there Greenbar Distillery will donate a burrito to The Burrito Project. Get more info here.

15. Free admission at: Long Beach Museum of Art (11 a.m to 5 p.m.)

Saturday April 14th, 2018

16. The March for Science returns to Los Angeles on April 14 in support of the environment, healthcare and scientific facts. This celebration will run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m and will begin at Pershing Square and end at City Hall. Last year’s event featured various speakers, activities and live entertainment during the expo. FREE

17. Whale of a Day 2018 at Point Vicente Interpretive Center in Rancho Palos Verdes celebrates the migration of the Pacific Gray Whale. Catch a possible view of the whales’ on their journey, enjoy various free, fun-filled activities, like face painting, and games for kids, along with exhibits, food vendors and prizes. FREE

18. The Downtown Burbank Arts Festival returns for its 15th year April 14-15. This free two-day outdoor festival will feature 200 artists, famous Disney animators, interactive experiences, special appearances, and much more. FREE

19. The Earth Day 2018 Community Festival comes to the Joint Administration Office in Whittier on April 14 to celebrate the majestic planet we call home. FREE

20. Picture This!, L.A.’s only live animated comedy show, is back with another free show at The Virgil in East Hollywood. During this show, see standup comics perform as talented animators, cartoonists and artists draw them live. FREE

21. Heritage Square Museum Victorian in Montecito Heights presents its annual Victorian Tea and Fashion Show on Saturday. See fashions inspired by First Ladies, including Martha Washington, Jackie Kennedy, Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn and more.

22. Volunteer to clean up the L.A. River this Saturday. Thousands of volunteers will scour different parts of the river, collecting trash and helping to improve the environment.

23. There’s a Mobile Cat Cafe bringing adoptable kitties to locations throughout Los Angeles and Orange County. This weekend they’ll be in Brea. No reservations are required but access to the cafe costs $12. The price includes one pastry; one reusable coaster; and either a bottled water, cup of hot coffee, or bottle of cold brew.

24. The Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire is back at the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area in Irwindale for another year of fun every Saturday and Sunday from April 7 through May 20. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

25. Museum of Selfies opens on April 1 and will run till May 31 with 10 interactive exhibits that welcomes visitors to take a closer look into the cultural phenomenon. The curators of the Glendale musueum have also collected an array of Instagram-inspired art as well as an Iron Throne made of selfie sticks for guests to enjoy.

26. ROW DTLA teams up with Unique Markets for several Unique L.A. mini markets to celebrate their 10th anniversary. The shopping event will feature a monthly rotation of hand-picked local artists, designers, and emerging brands

27. The Museum of Failure has a new location on Hollywood and Highland with new exhibits and products that include Juicero, Facebook Gifts, RCA SelectaVision, Pets.com, and Google Wave. There’s also an entire section dedicated to Hollywood with some of the industry’s biggest fails. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

28. The NoHo ArtWalk takes place on the second Saturday of every month. This month the event will be held at Pedestrian Plaza from 2-6 p.m. featuring vendors, artists and more. FREE

29. Step inside The Museum of Illusions in Hollywood and find yourself in a classic painting, part of a cartoon, part of current events, inside movies and much more. Highlights include watching the Titanic go down, “climbing” a sheer cliff and other eye popping visuals. Happening all week.  (DISCOUNTED)via Goldstar

30. Candytopia brings its immersive, oh-so-sweet Insta-friendly experience to Santa Monica, where it will remain till July 4.

31. Check out Butterfly Season at Kidspace Children’s Museum now through May 4. Activities include daily butterfly exploration in the Stone Hollow Amphitheater.

Sunday April 15th, 2018

32. Angeleno dog owners can be a part of history (possibly) this Sunday when the upcoming film Superpower Dogs attempts to set the Guinness World Record for ‘Largest Dog Photo’. They want public dog owners to participate and all you need to do is rsvp for Sundays event at Vista Hermosa Park. The organizers expect at least 200 dogs to be there. FREE

33. A Wayne’s World Movie Party heads to The Regent in DTLA this Sunday. Presented by Alamo Drafthouse the night will include a live Q&A with Director Penelope Spheeris, a live 80’s musical experience from the band Pop Gun Rerun, Cinefile Video pop-up shop, vintage record booth by Burger Records and a screening of Wayne’s World.

34. There’s a Cherry Blossom Festival in the newly-renovated Japanese Friendship Garden in Glendale’s Brand Park. The day event will feature live performances, activities for children, food and more. FREE

35. The VOID’s virtual reality experience Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire is now open in the Glendale Galleria. The “hyper-reality” experience puts players in a 360 virtual world allowing them to touch, smell, and sensing their surroundings.

36. Downward Grog presents Brewery Yoga this Sunday at Frogtown Brewery.

37. Art Salon Chinatown presents Greetings From Chinatown, a live art making event at Central Plaza. Artists will create art and the public is welcome to bring their own supplies and join them. This event is family friendley and free.

38. Free admission at: Museum of Latin American Art and Craft and Folk Art Museum (pay what you can)

Schedule provided by We Like LA.

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Fun Things to do this Spring in Los Angeles

The first day of spring is here, and there’s no better time to start making plans in the city of angels! This season you’ll have the chance to visit a mermaid museum, put yourself in the shoes of a drug kingpin or a CIA recruit, sketch like Degas, watch classic films outdoors or in 1920s Hollywood movie palaces, or steer a swan boat. Also on the docket: Attend a food festival inside the Rose Bowl, see Flying Lotus at the Hollywood Bowl, or participate in a hyper-reality Star Wars experience.

This list of some of the best spring events in Los Angeles will remind you of why this city is such a great place to live.

1. Visit the Mermaid Museum – The interactive, Insta-worthy pop-up Mermaid Museum is coming to Hollywood from March 22-25 as part of a promotion of Freeform’s new series, Siren. -> More information

2. Suit Up for The VOID’s Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire – This hyper-reality experience combines virtual reality with physical environments to simulate a rebel mission to infiltrate a secret Imperial base. Now at the Glendale Galleria. -> More information

3. See What’s it Like to Work for a Drug Kingpin – Los Angeles’ newest escape room, Stash House, will allow you and your friends to get actively involved in a crime drama — with zero chance of going to prison. -> More information

4. Learn Degas’ Artistic Technique – During the Norton Simon Museum’s Night in Focus: Degas on March 24, view Taking Shape: Degas as Sculptor, sketch dancers in the style of Degas while surrounded by his work, and more.  -> More information

5. Drink a Bunch of Beer – During the 9th Annual LA Beer Fest on April 7, sip a variety of unlimited samples of 200 beers from 80 different breweries. -> More information

6. Savor Delectable Food While Helping to Fight Homelessness – At Masters of Taste, taking place on the field of the Rose Bowl on May 7, some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, wineries and more will offer up handcrafted cocktails, exquisite bites, decadent desserts, fine wines and more, with 100% of the proceeds helping the homeless. -> More information

7. Take to the Streets – The latest CicLAvia event, Heart of the Foothills, will close certain streets to traffic on April 22, allowing Angelenos to bike, walk, and explore the off-the-beaten-path streets of San Dimas, La Verne, Pomona, and Claremont. -> More information

8. Spend Time with Grunions – Go to Cabrillo Beach to watch a grunion run, attend the Grunion Fish-tival, or go to a Meet the Grunions event on various dates during spring 2018. -> More information

9. Improve Your Health – Check out Clean Made L.A. on April 21-22 for a vast marketplace, numerous speakers, yoga, a meditation hut and much more to help you create a healthier lifestyle. -> More information

10. Celebrate Bach’s 333rd Birthday – Visit Union Station on March 24 for a ten-hour marathon celebrating the music of the German baroque master — and enjoy free Starbuck’s coffee if you arrive early enough. -> More information

11. Fill up on Pancakes, Booze, & Art – When the Los Angeles Pancakes & Booze Art Show returns on April 28, check out the work of over 150 artists, listen to music, dine at the pancake bar, and sip some hooch. -> More information

12. Check out Art in Grand Park – At the Our L.A. Voices Arts Festival in DTLA, enjoy dance, music, theater, and visual art during a free public event April 27-29. -> More information

13. Celebrate The Dude – Watch a The Big Lebowski screening at the Wiltern or attend a Lebowski-inspired Bowling Party in Fountain Valley during Lebowskifest on May 25-26. -> More information

14. Party Like It’s 1977 – At the new immersive theater show Safehouse ’77, taking place at a Los Feliz bungalow until April 1, attend a “party” that’s actually a CIA recruitment. -> More information

15. Watch a Movie From a Rooftop – Rooftop Cinema Club is back in April, with screenings of both recent releases (Get Out, The Shape of Water) and enduring classics (Casablanca, All About Eve) atop the Montalban in Hollywood or LEVEL in DTLA. -> More information

16. Listen to Stories From a Secret Society of Women – Every month on the night of the full moon, the Secret Society of the Sisterhood (whose members include Pamela Des Barres and Mara Wilson) comes to the Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever Cemetery to share their most personal stories. -> More information 

17. Watch Classic Films at Hollywood Movie Palaces – The TCM Classic Film Festival returns to the Chinese Theater, the Egyptian Theater, the Cinerama Dome, and the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel April 26-29 for four days of classic films, talks with the likes of Martin Scorcese and Mel Brooks, rare nitrate film screenings, and other events perfect for the classic film nerd. -> More information

18. See Neil Young, Jack White, Belle & Sebastian, Pretenders & More in Pasadena – Arroyo Seco Weekend returns to Pasadena June 23-24 for two days of live performances from some of the greatest bands of the past few decades. -> More information

19. Save the World (Virtually) – Visit Virtual Room in Hollywood for a group VR adventure in which you’ll go back in time to ensure a better future. -> More information

20. Ride a Swan in Echo Park – Savor the simple charm of steering a swan-shaped paddle boat around Echo Park Lake. -> More information

21. Enjoy the Return of Street Food Cinema – Listen to live music, dine from food trucks, and watch a movie screening outdoors when Street Food Cinema returns to parks all across the city. -> More information 

22. (Finally) Visit Candytopia – After a months-long delay, Candytopia finally brought its immersive, oh-so-sweet Insta-friendly experience to Santa Monica, where it will remain till July 4. -> More information

23. View Cherry Blossoms – Celebrate spring’s fragrant beauty during Los Angeles’ various cherry festivals. -> More information

24. Shop at an Immersive Pop-Up – Get stimulated during Na-Kel Smith’s multi-sensory adidas shopping experience in Downtown Los Angeles on March 24. -> More information 

25. Watch a Vintage Fashion Show as You Genteelly Sip Tea – Heritage Square Museum in Montecito Heights will host a Victorian tea and fashion show spotlighting 300 years of fashion history on April 14. -> More information

26. Decompress at a Sound Bath – Get bathed in healing sounds at Mystic Journey Crystals in Venice. -> More information

27. Purchase Limited-Edition Vinyl at Record Store Day – Buy limited-edition vinyl and more created especially for Record Store Day, an annual “holiday” for lovers of vinyl and indie record stores. -> More information

28. Visit a Shrine to Epic Fails – The Museum of Failure enjoyed a successful run in Downtown L.A. and has now made its way to Hollywood & Highland, where it will continue to celebrate such flops as Trump: The Game, Colgate brand lasagna, and Google Glass. -> More information

29. Step Back in Time to the Vaudeville Era – Watch a show featuring burlesque, snake charming, comedy, and aerial acrobatics, follow by a Speakeasy After Party, during The Return of Vaudeville at The Wiltern. -> More information

30. Stand up for Science – Support the environment, healthcare and scientific facts during The March for Science, returning to Downtown Los Angeles on April 14. -> More information

31. Listen to World Music at the Hollywood Bowl – KCRW is hosting six events making up the World Festival at the Hollywood Bowl this spring (and summer). The first event, on June 17, will feature Flying Lotus, Little Dragon, and another act to be announced. -> More information

Article courtesy of We Like LA.

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Weekend Events: March 16 – 18

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (March 16-18) includes The Other Art Fair, The Los Angeles Zine And Art Book Bazaar, Arcade Expo, St. Patrick’s Day, L.A. Nature Fest, Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival, Cherry Blossom Festivals, L.A. Marathons and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

Friday March 16th, 2018

1. The Other Art Fair is coming the Majestic Downtown March 15-18. The one-of-a-kind art fair, will feature artwork by emerging local and international artists. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

2. The Los Angeles Zine And Art Book Bazaar taking place March 16-18 hosts over 50 indie publishers to be discovered by Angelenos as well as workshops, live performances, psychic readings and astrology charting.

3. PAC-MAN and Donkey Kong fans rejoice because the Arcade Expo is returning the Museum of Pinball in Banning from March 16-18 with some 1,100 retro and modern arcade games and pinball machines.

4. Premiere TV festival PaleyFest LA returns to Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre March 16-25 for another year of cutting-edge programs and panels connecting television fans with the stars of their favorite shows. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

5. Kick off St. Patrick’s Day with a midnight screening of Leprechaun at the Vista Theatre in Los Feliz.

6. National Geographic Live returns to The Broad Stage in Santa Monica on March 15-16 with the live talk Between River & Rim: Hiking the Grand Canyon. In case you’re unfamiliar, Nat Geo Live is an international show that brings real-life nature experiences to local communities.

7. 8th Annual Beyond Wonderland Festival happening March 16-17 in San Bernardino will feature over 70 performances, Alice and Wonderland themed immersive experiences, art, pyrotechnics and other expressive art forms.

8. ‘The Garden’ is a new series by the LA Phil offering complimentary pre-concert drinks and views of the DTLA Skyline followed by masterful performances. Taking place on select Fridays starting January 5 through June 1. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase to the actual concert.  DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 

9. Miista will host a major sample sale March 15-18 with current season, past favorites and samples of their highly sought after shoes with steep discounts.

10. Girls Nite Out For Laughs, brings together the funniest female comics to The Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Hosted by Real Housewives of Atlanta’s NeNe Leakes the show features sets from Adele Givens, Loni Love, Melanie Comarcho, Sherri Shepherd and Jess Hilarious. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

11. Kick off St. Patricks day weekend with a Santa Monica pub crawl (March 16 and 17) the crawl includes drink specials at around a dozen venues along Main Street.

12. The Museum of Failure returns is back at a new location on Hollywood and Highland with new exhibits and products that include Juicero, Facebook Gifts, RCA SelectaVision, Pets.com, and Google Wave. There’s also an entire section dedicated to Hollywood with some of the industry’s biggest fails. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

13. There’s a Blade 20th anniversary screening in 35mm at Vista Theatre this Friday.

14. Head to Hollywood for an epic St. Patty’s Day Pub Crawl. Join hundreds of partygoers as you roam Hollywood for the best drink specials in town. Happening Friday and Saturday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

15. Westsiders put on your best green and partake in the annual Santa Monica Luck of the Irish bar crawl March 16-17. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

16. 260LA will host an epic beauty event March 13-18 in Beverly Hills with Korean beauty skincare line Dr. Jart+, hair tool by ghd, and makeup brushes from Artis Brush all at a steep discount.

17. Greenbar Distillery has teamed up with The Burrito Project and a select list of local bars and restaurants, to provide thousands of burritos to those in need in the Los Angeles area. Simply go to a bar on the list and order a CITY Bright gin cocktail from there Greenbar Distillery will donate a burrito to The Burrito Project. Get more info here  and make a difference while you sip on a cocktail!

Saturday March 17th, 2018

18. Check out this list of  24 Fun Things To Do for St. Patricks Day we’ve curated! It’s an eclectic list of events that will satisfy any green wearing partygoer.

19. L.A. Nature Fest comes to The Natural History Museum L.A. (NHMLA) March 17-18 for two days of getting to know the local animals of our city. Say “hello” to an opossum, have lunch with a rattlesnake, and take a walk with a desert tortoise! Museum scientists will be on hand to answer all questions regarding the city’s nature. Both days will be filled with performances, hands-on activities, presentations, exhibitor booths, live animal presentations, stage performances and nature walks.

20. This year’s Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival features two days of fun . On Saturday, March 17 there will be a green living expo, beer garden, and music. Sunday, March 18 features the vine tours (free to enter, but a shuttle ticket is extra). Note that Sunday is the only day you’ll actually be able to view the vine.

21. Casey’s St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival will shut down four blocks in downtown featuring DJs, dancing, Irish whiskey and beer, and more. The street fest will run from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

22. The 2018 West Covina Cherry Blossom Festival will feature a free festival with Japanese focused demonstrations, cuisine and more. FREE

23. The Cahuenga Block Party will feature live music, around a dozen DJs, two music areas, outdoor lounge areas, two bars, and food trucks in a 6000 square-foot venue. Hear live music from all-girl Guns N’ Roses tribute band Paradise Kitty, Pogues tribute Dirty Old Town, Satellite Sky, Peacock  & The Feathers, Go-Go Riot and Bear Squared.

24. The N’owt but Stout Festival comes to Torrance’s Yorkshire Square Brewery for a St. Patty’s Day craft beer celebration featuring exceptional dark beers, on cask and keg, from breweries hand-selected by Yorkshire Square’s head brewer, Andy Black.

25. Angel City Brewery will also celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with corned beef tacos, delicious stout, Irish music, and more. At 5 p.m. Opera on Tap Los Angeles will take over Angel City Brewery with opera singers!

26. This 15-hour party at The Irish Times Pub in Palms starts with an Irish breakfast and then hours of live music (including Celtic tunes from Red Wing Social Club), Irish food, games and other festivities.

27. MiniBar Hollywood will host the second Hollywood Crawl of Fame, a St. Patrick’s Day Parade/bar crawl making its way through Hollywood. The event will include live Irish music, along with a party at the end of the crawl.

28. Annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration at The Original Farmers Market is a free family friendley Irish-themed day featuring Irish fare, drinks and traditional music like a strolling bagpiper.

29. Checkout a St. Patricks Day block party and pub crawl in the heart of Hollywood. Guest will receive a St. Patrick’s Day kit with drink coupons, a map and free welcome shot vouchers. Other highlights include DJs, dancing and drink specials.

30. Harvelle’s in Long Beach is hosting a Gettin’ Lucky Burlesque show in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Taking place on March 17 at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., each performance will feature sultry burlesque alongside fun comedy.

31. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an epic pub crawl throughout Downtown Los Angeles, partygoers will have a chance to visit ten or more bars with music, hundreds of beers on tap and photo booths. Each attendee will receive a wristband, map of the crawl, free welcome shots, drink discounts and free entry at participating venues.

32. One Colorado in Old Town Pasadena will host a fun filled day of Irish dance lessons, family crafting and a Pasadena Scots March & Drum performance.

33. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a whiskey tasting and education at Vertical Wine Bistro in Old Town Pasadena. The class features an introduction to whiskey basics, interactive tasting of four different whiskeys and includes appetizers served throughout the class.

34. LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes will host a special screening of DOLORES a documentary featuring the story of Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the first farm workers union with Cesar Chavez. The outdoor event includes a program with Dolores Huerta and a musical performance by Louie Cruz Beltran. FREE

35. The Music Center presents Shakespeare’s timeless classic Romeo & Juliet performed by The Joffrey Ballet at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

36. On Deck Comedy Show at the Nerdist Showroom at Meltdown Comics will feature six comedians and all guests are free to BYOB!

Sunday March 18th, 2018

37. The Huntington Beach Cherry Blossom Festival returns for another year of flower appreciation, Japanese cultural activities and community fun. Highlights include a tea ceremony, live music from the River Academy of Music, classical Japanese dance, calligraphy, origami, face painting and craft booths. FREE

38. The Los Angeles Marathon is back for another year of racing from “the stadium to the sea” across our magical city. Thousands of runners will begin at 6:30 a.m. at Dodger Stadium. From there, participants will run along the course to Downtown L.A. all the way to Santa Monica. In addition, Angel City Brewery will host a free morning dance party at Hollywood and Highland to help cheer on the runners with DJ Michael Rockstar.

39. Head to the westside for the closing reception of L.A. Femme at Santa Monica’s Merchant Modern Gallery. The show features all-female artists and guests will enjoy wine tastings poured by certified sommelier and Vinovore owner, Coly Den Haan and local bites from Lori Stern and coffee from Canyon Coffee. FREE

40. Pedal in swan-shaped boats at Echo Park Lake! The upgraded fleet of swan-shaped pedal boats are available for rental and cost $11 per hour for adults and $6 per hour for children (ages 2-17).

41. Smorgasburg LA returns this Sunday to DTLA for another round of awesome eats from some of the best local chefs without a brick and mortar. It’s free to get into the open air food and shopping market.

42. Heavy Heavy Low Low Comedy returns to Bar Lubitsch this Sunday. FREE

43. The Shaolin Festival in Rosemead will feature martial arts demonstrations by the SoCal Shaolin Kung Fu Schools, meditation sessions, wellness exhibits, Kung Fu lessons, a tea ceremony and tasting, gift bags and more. FREE

Schedule provided by We Like LA. 

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Fun Things to do in LA for St. Patrick’s Day

Have you made your St. Patrick’s Day plans in Los Angeles yet? March 17 falls on a Saturday this year, making St. Paddy’s an even more carefree holiday than usual. Get the party started early with a Leprechaun 25th anniversary screening in Los Feliz, or begin your day the healthy way and engage in a 5K in Redondo Beach. Or, check out a pub crawl — they’re happening in Hollywood, Downtown L.A., Santa Monica and Newport Beach. Elsewhere you can swing dance in Orange, visit DTLA’s art deco jewel, the Cicada Club, for a show that includes ’30-style tap-dancing chorus girls, enjoy corned beef, four different stouts and horse-racing at Santa Anita, chow on corned beef tacos at Angel City Brewery, or sip green beer in Marina del Rey.

Check out our rundown below for some of Los Angeles’ best St. Patrick’s Day events!

1. St. Paddy’s with a Tiki Twist

What’s even better than $5 Guinness and Jameson specials? Change things up at Tiki No in North Hollywood on St. Patrick’s Day, where you can sip those enduring Irish potations, along with tiki classics like the Scorpion Bowl, Navy Grog, and the Suffering Bastard.

2. Listen to Pogues & Guns N’ Roses Tribute Bands in Hollywood

Proclaiming itself “the biggest party in Hollywood,” the Cahuenga Block Party at Hollywood and Cahuenga will feature live music all day (including Dirty Old Town, a Pogues tribute, and all-girl GNR tribute band Paradise Ktty), along with outdoor lounges, about a dozen DJs, an outdoor stage and a free drink with your early-bird ticket purchase.

3. Swing Dance While Surrounded by Art Deco Splendor

Downtown’s gorgeous Cicada Club, an art deco restaurant/nightclub built in the ’20s (it began as a posh haberdashery) is hosting a special St. Patrick’s Day show led by Johnny Holiday. A singer who performs in the style of Bing Crosby (Holiday’s uncle), this modern-day crooner will perform with his 11-piece dance orchestra. The show also features The Honey Taps, a charming troupe of ‘30s-style chorus girls.

4. Stout Tasting & Horse Racing at Santa Anita Park

The SGV’s landmark horse-racing track will celebrate the luck of the Irish in style with their Trackside Celebration. Your ticket gets you four 3 oz. stout tastings, a full craft beer, clubhouse admission, and access to trackside seating. Get more info and access to Goldstar (affiliate) discount tickets here. The day will also feature a special Irish trackside menu.

5. Run a 5K in the South Bay

Work up a sweat instead of (or before) carousing during the St. Patrick’s Day 5K in Redondo Beach. The course winds its way through Redondo’s scenic waterfront area.

6. Nosh on Corned Beef Tacos & Listen to Irish Music in a Downtown Brewery

St. Patrick’s Day at Angel City Brewery in Downtown Los Angeles will feature corned beef tacos, Irish coffee stout, Irish music from Opera on Tap Los Angeles, Americana rock band The Sound of Ghost… and NO COVER CHARGE!

7. Casey’s St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival

Casey’s St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival will shut down four blocks in downtown featuring DJs, dancing, Irish whiskey and beer, and more. The street fest will run from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

8. Party at a Westside Irish Pub

This 15-hour party at The Irish Times Pub in Palms begins at 9 a.m., allowing customers time to savor a hearty Irish breakfast. In addition, listen to hours of live music (including Celtic tunes from Red Wing Social Club), partake of Irish stew or corned beef and cabbage, play games and enjoy other festivities.

9. Vegan Food, Green Beer & Live Music in Marina del Rey

The St. Paddy’s bash at Brennan’s in Marina del Rey will feature both vegan and non-vegan food specials, along with green beer and live music from five bands.

10. 7th Annual Rock & Reilly’s St. Paddy’s Day Block Party

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day while benefiting a good cause (MVP: Merging Vets & Players) at this Sunset Strip pub’s back lot shindig, back for a seventh year, which will offer partygoers 100 kegs of green beer, DJs, food, and lots of games.

11. Imbibe at Seven of Hollywood’s Coolest Bars

Visit seven of Hollywood’s coolest Bars during MiniBar’s “Hollywood Crawl of Fame.” Attendees will enjoy cocktail specials at this well-curated selection of Hollywood’s finest bars, with live Irish music and a party at the finish line. Buy a ticket for $25 — participating venues include MiniBar Hollywood, Ever Bar, The Parker Room, Sassafras, Sunset & Vinyl, Lost Property and Three Clubs.

12. Bagpipes, Guinness, Pac Man & More in DTLA

Brack Shop Tavern’s St. Patrick’s Day will include live bagpipes from 3-6pm, corned beef sliders, $7 Guinness pints, $5 green Budweiser, $10 Irish car bombs and $8 Jameson shots, along with Brack Shop’s usual game room fun: Pac Man, ping pong, darts and more.

13. Get Terrorized by a Leprechaun in Los Feliz

Start St. Patrick’s Day bright and early with a midnight screening of Leprechaun at the Vista Theatre — a beautiful 95-year-old vintage cinema in Los Feliz — in honor of the cult classic’s 25th anniversary.

14. Ten-Venue Hollywood Block Party & Pub Crawl

This pub crawl starts at St. Felix in Hollywood, then continues on to The Outpost, The Room, Pig ‘n’ Whistle and much more. Tickets are $18 and earn you some free welcome shots, amazing drink specials and access to the St. Pat’s photo booth.

15. Watch Burlesque in Long Beach

Enjoy the art of the tease when the Dirty Little Secrets burlesque troupe titillates and tantalizes guests at their “Getting’ Lucky” St. Paddy’s-themed show at Harvelle’s in Long Beach.

16. Engage in a Pub Crawl Through Downtown Los Angeles

Enjoy welcome shots with drink purchases, along with other tempting bargains, during this DTLA crawlthat includes Library Bar, Broadway Bar, Crocker Club, Beelman’s, Golden Road Brewing, The Association, Sixth Street Tavern, Los Angeles Biergarten and other watering holes.

17. Ten-Venue Hollywood Block Party & Pub Crawl

Happening both the day before St. Patrick’s Day and on the day itself, you can sip drink specials like $2 beers, $3 well drinks, and $4 shots during this crawl that begins at either the classic Pig ‘n’ Whistle or The Outpost. Goldstar is offering a limited number of discount tickets to this crawl, so grab ’em while they last.

18. Swing & Latin & Ballroom Dance Party in Orange

Phil’s Ballroom Dance Studio in Orange is hosting a festive St. Patrick’s Day dance with live music. Don’t know how to dance? No worries — a pre-party swing dance lesson is part of the fun. In addition, this celebration at the oldest dance school in the O.C. will include giveaways, light refreshments and punch. Goldstar is offering discounted tickets while supplies last.

19. Bar Hop in Newport Beach

Engage in a day and night of Newport Beach bar hopping this St. Paddy’s. Your pub crawl map will guide you to numerous area clubs and bars where you’ll encounter specials on Irish whiskey and more, along with plenty of music. Our friends at Goldstar are offering some discounted tickets to this Luck of the Irish crawl.

20. Waterfront Patio Party at Whiskey Reds in Marina del Rey

Breathe in the ocean air and enjoy the views of MDR and the Pacific Ocean during the 5th Annual St. Patty’s Patio Party at Whiskey Red’s. For $20, you’ll enjoy small bites, dancing, DJs, party favors and drink special access: $4 green beer, $5 Jameson Shots, $7 Guinness, and $8 Irish Car Bombs

21. Feast on Dark Beers at the Stout Festival in Torrance

Are you bored with IPAs? At the N’owt but Stout Festival, taking place at Yorkshire Square Brewery in Torrance, enjoy exceptional dark beers, on cask and keg, from breweries hand-selected by the venue’s head brewer, Andy Black. You’ll sip pour after pour and get a stout beer education along the way.

22. Imbibe at Golden Road Brewing

Beginning at 10 a.m. on St. Patrick’s Day and continuing until 2 a.m., Golden Road Brewing will offer $5 pints of Irish Red Ale and Nitro Stout or $15 select pitchers. Live music begins at 2 p.m. with the band Green With Envy.

23. Party at One of L.A.’s Oldest Restaurants

One of the oldest restaurants in Los Angeles — a longtime favorite of Walt Disney — the Tam O’Shanter will be home to an epic St. Patrick’s Day party. The party and live music begin at noon in a special tented area in the parking lot, with entry to the music tent is just $5. Or spring for VIP entry — it’s $175, but that gets you exclusive seating on the newly restored patio, five drink tickets, two hours of buffet access, VIP-only drink specials, and special VIP-only raffles with prizes from Tullamore Dew Whiskey, Carlsberg Brewery and Lawry’s Restaurants.

24. Pub Crawl Along Main Street in Santa Monica

This famed Santa Monica pub crawl happens on both March 16 and 17 includes drink specials at around a dozen venues along Main Street. The crawl will feature $3 beers, $4 well drinks and $5 shots.

 

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Weekend Events: March 9 – 11

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (March 9-11) includes ArtNight Pasadena, All-Star Chef Classic at L.A. LIVE, Pop-Up ‘The Shining’ Speakeasy Based,Big ‘Cap Beer & Cider Festival, LA COCHON555, 44th Annual Redondo Beach Kite Festival and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

Friday March 9th, 2018

1. Pasadena cultural institutions will participate in ArtNight Pasadena a night of free art, music, and entertainment. Complimentary shuttles will transport guests to each destination and venues include the Norton Simon Museum, Pasadena Museum of California Art, Kidspace Children’s Museum, and more. FREE

2. Metro Art Presents Josh Nelson & The Discovery Project at Union Station this Friday. The  jazz group will bring “a multimedia love letter to Los Angeles” combining video, light and live music to the iconic train station. FREE

3. All-Star Chef Classic at L.A. LIVE in DTLA, from March 7-10, will feature dinners made by top chefs like Ludo Lefebvre, Michael Voltaggio, Jose Andres, Jose Garces and more. Check for discount tickets on select events via Goldstar before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

4. The Museum of Failure returns in a new location on Hollywood and Highland with new exhibits and products that include Juicero, Facebook Gifts, RCA SelectaVision, Pets.com, and Google Wave. There’s also an entire section dedicated to Hollywood with some of the industry’s biggest fails.

5. Chicano artist Barbara Carrasco’s 80-foot mural, L.A. History: A Mexican Perspective, will be the centerpiece of a new exhibit coming to the Natural History Museum this Friday. The mural will be on view through August 18, and is included with general admission to the museum.

6. Pepperdine’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology welcomes the esteemed Dr. Cornel West to speak at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel L.A. Part of the Weber Distinguished Lecture Series, Dr. West’s public lecture, “Prophetic Fire,” will encourage attendees to live and inspire through more-than-ordinary means.

7. The Music Center presents Shakespeare’s timeless classic Romeo & Juliet performed by The Joffrey Ballet at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on March 9, 11 and 17.

8. FirstGlance Film Fest Los Angeles 18 happening March 8-11 will screen over 40 award winning indie films from across the globe at the Laemmle NOHO 7.

9. Echo Flex a 2000’s era hip hop jams party happening at the Echoplex will include a live performance from Ghostface Killah and Smoke DZA.

10. LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes will host a free screening of The Rise and Fall of the Brown Buffalo, a chronicle of radical Chicano lawyer, author and activist Oscar Zeta Acosta. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. this Friday. FREE

11. Greenbar Distillery will open up their facility for a tour of their organic distillery. The tour is one hour long and guests will have a chance to learn about the process of spirit making and taste some of the Greenbar portfolio.

12. Bootie LA presents Pop Goes the Diva, a night of mashed-up tunes from all the greatest pop divas in history happening at the Regent DTLA.

Saturday March 10th, 2018

13. There’s a Pop-Up Speakeasy Based on ‘The Shining’ happening at the Mystic Museum in Burbank. The Gold Room will be recreated for this speakeasy pop-up and will feature live music, DJs, magicians, and actors portraying Jack, Wendy, and Lloyd. Guests are encouraged to dress up in 1920s attire or outfits inspired by The Shining, but costumes are not required.

14. Stop by Santa Anita Park in Arcadia for the Big ‘Cap Beer & Cider Festival. The festival will include local and national craft beers, ciders and food trucks right alongside the racetrack. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

15. Buffering The Vampire Slayer Presents: The Prom at the Ace Hotel in Los Angeles for a night of dancing and fun dedicated to the classic 90s television show “Buffy The Vampire Slayer.”

16. East Side Babylon is a four hour tour devoted to haunting crime stories from the east side of the L.A. River. You’ll visit Boyle Heights, L.A.’s oldest cemetery and Commerce where hideous 20th century crime tales will be unfolded by the crime historians of the Esotouric Bus Adventures. DISCOUNTED(via Goldstar)

17. Head to ROW DTLA for Encounter V: Speedplay X luminhero a high-intensity training class on the rooftop of the building. Hosted by co-founder Xacier Quimbo the workout will be followed by a yoga session with Emilie Perz. FREE

18. L.A.’s only live animated comedy show Picture This! celebrates its 6th year anniversary this Saturday with a free show at The Virgil. FREE

19. The 4th Annual Viva La Muxer hosted by Las Fotos Project at Plaza de la Raza is an arts and music benefit featuring live performances, more than 100 curated arts exhibits, family-friendly workshops, and much more.

20. Pedal in swan-shaped boats at Echo Park Lake! The upgraded fleet of swan-shaped pedal boats are available for rental and cost $11 per hour for adults and $6 per hour for children (ages 2-17).

21. Join a lively panel of SoCal coffee experts as they discuss significant developments in the region’s coffee landscape, beginning with early settlers to specialty roasters and coffee houses in the 20th century and the Third Wave of espresso bars and cafés that have taken over Southern California today. FREE

22. Smorgasburg’s 2nd Annual Popup on the Pier in Santa Monica returns for a one-day affair that will satisfy your tastebuds through 70+ vendors including goa-taco, Amazebowls, Shrimp Daddy, Lobsterdamus, Big Mozz and more.

23. Greenbar Distillery has teamed up with The Burrito Project and a select list of local bars and restaurants, to provide thousands of burritos to those in need in the Los Angeles area. Simply go to a bar on the list and order a CITY Bright gin cocktail from there Greenbar Distillery will donate a burrito to The Burrito Project. Get more info here.

24. Reformation brings their favorite LA vintage vendors to Platform LA for a day of flea style shopping of curated selections of vintage clothing, accessories, and jewelry.

25. Santa Anita Park is hosting a reggae festival! The Westbound Rhythm & Brews Festival will feature live music, craft beers, local street food and California artists. The music lineup includes Suga Free, The Expanders, Arise Roots, Brewfish and many more.

26. LA Philharmonic presents two nights with Glen Hansard. The Oscar winning singer-songwriter is best known for his raw and heartfelt performance in the movie Once.

Sunday March 11th, 2018

27. The 2018 LA COCHON555 heads to Santa Monica this Sunday for a three-hour culinary experience of all things pork. Taking place at The Viceroy, this delicious nationwide culinary tour will feature 100+ prominent chefs, farmers, sommeliers, distillers, brewers and barkeeps. Check for discounted ticketsbefore making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

28. The 44th Annual Redondo Beach Kite Festival returns to the Redondo Beach Pier on Sunday for an all-ages free afternoon of kite-flying and fun. Just be mindful of possible rain and how it might affect the event. We suggest checking the Redondo Beach Pier’s Facebook page for updates. FREE

29. King Trivia is hosting a Friends-themed trivia night at Angel City Brewery this Sunday.

30. Le Salon de Musiques presents a stage free chamber musical experience with champagne and high tea to follow at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion this Sunday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

31. The Wallis in Beverly Hills will host “Dance Sundays” with famed actress/dancer/choreographer Debbie Allen. Suitable for the whole family, each month will feature a special dance theme, this month it’s Salsa. FREE

Schedule provided by We Like LA.  
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Cool Things to do This March in LA

Need stuff to do this month in Los Angeles? We looked ahead on our calendar to focus in on some of the best events happening in March around Los Angeles that you should probably have on your radar. After all, better to get your tickets now than wait till the last minute and find out your favorite event is sold out.

March 2018 event highlights include an IPA Festival, Art Night Pasadena, the Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival, Bach in the Subways, the Redondo Beach Kite Festival, and lots more.

A complete rundown starts after the jump. Enjoy!

1. Food Book Fair L.A. at the Ace Hotel (March 2-4)

The first annual Food Book Fair hits the Act Hotel in Downtown L.A. March 2-4 for a delicious weekend of events for foodies and food publishing. -> More information

2. Art Inspired by Song Lyrics: ‘Lyrics to Life’ in DTLA (March 2-5)

Lyrics to Life,’ a FREE four-day pop-up exhibition featuring art inspired by song lyrics from the likes of The Notorious B.I.G., Radiohead, Nicki Minaj and The Weeknd, comes to Downtown Los Angeles from March 2-5. -> More information

3. The Pasadena Museum of History Goes Sci-Fi (March 3)

The Pasadena Museum of History’s new exhibit, “Dreaming the Universe: The Intersection of Science, Fiction, and Southern California” opens on March 3. To celebrate they’re hosting a day of family-friendly activities and free admission. -> More information

4 The 5th Annual Los Angeles IPA Festival at Mohawk Bend in Echo Park (March 3-4)

The 5th Annual Los Angeles IPA Festival returns to Mohawk Bend in Echo Park on March 3-4! Mohawk will be tapping 60 IPAs, all brewed by Golden State breweries. -> More information

5. Mai Tais on the Moon at the Tonga Hut Tiki Lounge in North Hollywood (March 4)

Highlights of Mai Tais on the Moon at the Tonga Hut Tiki Lounge in North Hollywood include Tonga Tom spinning tunes outside, Durango’s Tacos, delicious Mai Tais, plus a chance to create Tikiyaki song-based art. -> More information

6. All-Star Chef Classic at L.A. LIVE (March 7-10)

All-Star Chef Classic at L.A. Live in DTL, from March 7-10, will feature dinners made by top chefs like Ludo Lefebvre, Michael Voltaggo, Jose Andres, Nyesha Arrington & Jose Garces. -> More information – Discount tickets

7. Art Night Pasadena (March 9)

19 Pasadena cultural institutions will participate in a night of free art, music, and entertainment. There are even FREE shuttles to transport guests to their next destination. Venues include the Norton Simon Museum, Pasadena Museum of California Art, Kidspace Children’s Museum, and more. -> More information

8. Metro Art Presents: Josh Nelson & The Discovery Project at Union Station (March 9)

Visit Downtown L.A.’s Union Station on March 9 when Metro Arts plays host to Josh Nelson & The Discovery Project as the jazz group brings “a multimedia love letter to Los Angeles” combining video, light & live music to the iconic train station. -> More information

9. Smorgasburg’s 2nd Annual Popup on the Pier in Santa Monica (March 10)

Westside foodies rejoice! Smorgasburg’s 2nd Annual Popup comes to the Pier in Santa Monica on Saturday March 10 for a one-day affair that will satisfy your tastebuds . -> More information

10. ‘Buffy’ Prom with ‘Buffering the Vampire Slayer’ at the Ace Hotel in DTLA (March 10)

Buffering The Vampire Slayer Presents: The Prom at the Ace Hotel in Los Angeles on March 10 for a night of dancing and fun dedicated to the classic 90s television show “Buffy The Vampire Slayer.” -> More information

11. 44th Annual Redondo Beach Kite Festival (March 12)

The 44th Annual Redondo Beach Kite Festival returns to the Redondo Beach Pier on March 12 for an all-ages free afternoon of kite-flying and fun. -> More information

12. Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop Celebration at California African American Museum (March 14)

CAAM in Los Angeles is hosting a celebration in honor of five new exhibit openings featuring exhibit tours, DJ sets and food trucks. Entrance to the event is free! -> More information

13. The Other Art Fair is Coming to Downtown L.A. (March 15-18)

Hosted at the Majestic Downtown, the Other Art Fair, a one-of-a-kind art fair, will feature artwork by emerging local & international artists. -> More information – Discount tickets

14. Venice Art Crawl Returns with First of Four Events in 2018 (March 15)

The Venice Art Crawl is a free community event to showcase local artists and vendors. The March 15 Art Crawl will take place on Windward Avenue. -> More information

15. Arcade Expo 2018 at the Museum of Pinball (March 16-18)

PAC-MAN and Donkey Kong fans rejoice because the Arcade Expo is returning the Museum of Pinball in Banning from March 16-18 with some 1,100 retro and modern arcade games and pinball machines. -> More information

16. PaleyFest LA at the Dolby Theatre (March 16-25)

Premiere TV festival PaleyFest LA returns to Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre March 16-25 for another year of cutting-edge programs and panels connecting television fans with the stars of their favorite shows. -> More information – Discount tickets

17. L.A. Nature Fest at The Natural History Museum L.A. (March 17-18)

L.A. Nature Fest comes to The Natural History Museum L.A. (NHMLA) March 17-18 for a special visit with some of our coolest animal neighbors! -> More information

18. Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival (March 17-18)

This year’s Sierra Madre Wistaria Festival features two days of fun . On Saturday, March 17 there will be a green living expo, beer garden, and music. Sunday, March 18 features the vine tours (free to enter, but a shuttle ticket is extra). Note that Sunday is the only day you’ll actually be able to view the vine. -> More information

19. Enjoy Free Music During Bach in the Subways (March 21-25)

In honor of J.S. Bach’s birthday, Bach in the Subways returns to L.A. with free performances at Union Station, North Hollywood, Glendale, and other public venues. The events are highlighted by a 10-hour Bach Marathon at Union Station on March 24. -> More information

20. The Mermaid Museum Comes to Goya Studios (March 22-25)

The Siren-inspired POPSUGAR x Freeform Mermaid Museum will feature a photo spot that allows guests to look as though they’re floating in an underwater garden plus a 360-degree animated underwater projection and soundscape. Free to attend! -> More information

21. Latin Food Fest at Santa Monica Beach (March 23-24)

Highlights of the 2018 Latin Food Fest Celebration in Santa Monica include food, beer & wine booths, demos by celebrity chefs, Latin rock band, Sonsoles, a michelada bar, a spirits expo, and more! -> More information

22. Waffles & Beer Festival at Pershing Square in DTLA(March 24-25)

Waffles and Beer Festival comes to Pershing Square in Downtown L.A. March 24-25 to celebrate the Swedish Tradition known as Waffle Day. -> More information

23. LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes Celebrates César Chávez Day (March 25)

This free celebration features educational, interactive workshops, Xipe Totec Aztec Dance Group, The César Chávez Foundation and much more. -> More information

24. Cherry Blossom Festivals (various dates)

Numerous Cherry Blossom festivals will pop up around Los Angeles this March, including at Descanso Gardens (all month long), Torrance, South Coast Botanic Garden, Huntington Beach, and West Covina. -> More information

Schedule courtesy of We Like LA.

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Weekend Events: March 2 – 4

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (March 2-4) includes Lyrics to Life, Food Book Fair, International Women’s Day March, Cherry Blossom Festival, Air + Style, IPA Festival, a Sweet Experience Expo and MUCH more!

Enjoy!

Friday March 2nd, 2018

1. ‘Lyrics to Life,’ a FREE four-day pop-up exhibition featuring art inspired by song lyrics from the likes of The Notorious B.I.G., Radiohead, Nicki Minaj and The Weeknd, comes to Downtown Los Angeles from March 2-5.

2. First Fridays return to the Natural History Museum this Friday. The event will explore L.A. inventiveness, capped with live music from Mondo Cozmo, Superet and Shannon Lay.

3. The first annual Food Book Fair, headquartered at the Ace Hotel, hits Downtown Los Angeles March 2-4 for a delicious weekend of events for foodies and food publishing.

4. In honor of Women’s History Month, Théâtre Raymond Kabbaz and Brockus Project Dance present L.A. Dance Festival 2018 in Century City from March 1-3. The event features Women Rising performances that celebrate the many contributions from female-led companies and art through the female perspective.

5. The Classic Auto Show returns to the L.A. Convention Center March 2-4 for the largest three-day indoor classic car show in the United States. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

6. The Japanese Food Festival takes over the InterContinental in Downtown for two days (March 2-3) of food, sake, and travel exhibitions from over 50 participants.

7. Greenbar Distillery will open up their facility for a tour of their organic distillery. The tour is one hour long and guests will have a chance to learn about the process of spirit making and taste some of the Greenbar portfolio.

8. Dine Out Long Beach Restaurant Week 2.0 will host specially priced prix fixe lunches and dinners at some of the city’s best restaurants. From February 25 through March 3, dozens of Long Beach restaurants will offer two-course brunch and lunch menus for $10, 15, or $20 per person, and three-course dinners for $20, $30, $40 and $50 per person.

9. The Groundlings Theatre presents their latest main stage show, Sweet Valley Groundlingsperforming this Friday. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

10. The Griffith Observatory hosts a monthly forum where some of the most amazing phenomena in the known universe are explained and discussed. It’s called All Space Considered and it takes place on the first Friday of every month. FREE

11. Since its the first Friday of the month check out all the cool events happening around town including block parties and art walks for First Fridays.

12. Free admission at: Norton Simon Museum (5 to 8 p.m.), Pasadena Museum of California Art (noon to 5 p.m.) and Long Beach Museum of Art.

Saturday March 3rd, 2018

13. The International Women’s Day March and Rally kicks off in Downtown L.A. on Saturday. Join in a spirited walk through the city for a great cause. Hosted by AF3IRM Los Angeles, the motto of the march is “Uprising: Forward to a Feminist Future.” Convened and led by transnational/women of color, this march is inclusive of all people. There will be speakers, poets, and musicians throughout the day.

14. The Cherry Blossom Festival comes to the South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes Peninsula this Saturday featuring hula and ukulele performances, gardens for a “hanami” (a.k.a. cherry blossom viewing), a picnic on the Amphitheater Lawn and more.

15. Air + Style is March 3-4 at Expo Park in Downtown L.A. Hosted by Shaun White, Air + Style features prominent artists, skateboarders and snowboarders,  sports competitions, special guests and live performances by Phoenix, ZEDD, Cut Copy, Phantogram, Tinashe and more. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

16. The Pasadena Museum of History is launching a new Sci-Fi exhibit and opening day offers day of festivities with free admission to mark the opening this Saturday. “Dreaming the Universe: The Intersection of Science, Fiction, and Southern California” will run through September 2. FREE

17. Treat Yourself LA, a new food festival, will takeover the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, with all-you-can-eat samples of Southern California’s most drool-worthy treats, both savory and sweet. You can savor hot fried chicken, crispy waffles on a stick, the meltiest grilled cheese sandwich and more. Participating restaurants include The Pie Hole, Sprinkles Cupcakes, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Cheezus, Ridges Churro Bar, Rollin’ Creamery and many more.

18. The 5th Annual Los Angeles IPA Festival returns to Mohawk Bend in Echo Park on March 3-4 tapping 60 IPAs this weekend, all made by Golden State breweries.

19. Esoteric Bus presents Echo Park Book of the Dead a four hour tour of notorious crime scenes that include Edward Hickman’s kidnapping of Marion Parker, the “Man in the Attic” love nest slaying and much more. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

20. Pasadena’s beautiful Storrier Stearns Garden is hosting A Taste of Japan dinner and fundraiser where guests will sample delicious treats from various food and drink stations. Savor Okonomi-yaki provided by Otafuku Foods,  Japanese dishes from The Kitchen for Exploring Foods, and creative onigiri will be available.  Whiskies by Beam Suntory, different local sakes and Nigori Sake Sayuri by Hakutsuru Sake of America Inc., and iced Japanese teas will also be on hand.

21. Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group presents Writer-Director Sharon Yablon’s evening of three new short plays focused on disturbing stories of Angelinos who find themselves in the desert.

22. The San Fernando cocktail bar in Glendale welcomes burlesque troupe ‘The Dollface Dames’ with music from Lounge-O-Rama, hot fire acts, smooth crooners and more! Check for discounted ticketsbefore making your purchase. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

23. There’s a Year Of The Dog art exhibition at Giant Robot 2 (GR2) debuting this Saturday.

24. Join Viva Balance, Selectively Spiritual, Good Saint, and Shanti Kitchen at Mystic Journey Yoga for a day of guided meditation, healing, and nourishing food.

25. Take a Downtown Los Angeles foodie walking tour and savor what the bustling neighborhood has to offer. The tour is three hours long, participants will stop at six popular spots to eat and the tour guide will take folks through the history of DTLA. Happening Saturday and Sunday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

Sunday March 4th, 2018

26. The Tongo Hut in North Hollywood is hosting the ultimate tiki party in honor of an amazing 60 years in service! From 2 to 10 p.m., Mai Tai-lovers will have a chance to celebrate with live music, drinks and shopping. Highlights include Tonga Tom spinning tunes outside, Durango’s Tacos, an art show, and a chance to create art based on a Tikiyaki song. Entrance to the event is free, but drinks and food are available for purchase.

27. The second annual Sweet Experience Expo returns to the South Bay with a dessert and pastry expo featuring hundreds of local dessert and pastry chefs showcasing their offerings and serving up samples.

28. Head to historic Filipinotown for MARCH FORTH! a block party and fundraiser for put on by Los Angeles Walks. The annual party advocates for safe, accessible, fun, and equitable walking for all! From noon to 3 p.m. a free block party for all ages will take place on Vendome St. between Council St. and Beverly Blvd featuring games, magicians, face paint, bike lessons and more. From 2 to 5 p.m. a ticketed fundraiser party with food, drinks, music, art and a guided Mural Art Alley Tour will take place.

29. Food Book Fair’s Foodieodicals is coming to Smorgasburg LA this Sunday. Part festival, part conference, it’s dubbed as the “Coachella of writing about eating”, starring food magazines, journals, periodicals and zines from Mexico City to Tokyo. FREE

30. Stories Books & Cafe purrrrsent a free night of cat themed entertainment benefiting Eastside LA’s Luxe Paws Cat Rescue. Festivities include music by Nana The Cat Lady, Psychic Pet Readings by Shana Leilani, amazing but true stories of “History’s Greatest Feline Heroes,” a lecture by Dr. Paul Koudounaris, a silent auction and more.

31. Friendship Buddies is a weekly stand-up comedy show at the Verdugo Bar in Glassell Park. Come hangout in the back patio, enjoy a cocktail, and LOL to outstanding stand-up comedians in Los Angeles. FREE

32. The Great Rock and Roll Flea Market will take over The Regent Theater in DTLA with an impressive selection of vintage collectors, antiquities dealers, vintage clothing, jewelry makers, music memorabilia, vinyl, local food vendors, food trucks, craftsmen and used musical instruments dealers. FREE

Schedule provided by We Like LA.

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Weekend Events: February 23 – 25

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for everyweekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (February 23-25) includes Bob Baker Day, Firecracker Festival in Chinatown, Airtalk’s FilmWeek: 2018 Oscar Preview, a Star Party at Griffith Observatory, Dine Out Long Beach Restaurant Week 2.0 and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

Friday February 23rd, 2018

1. The Urban Chuck Wagon: 100 Years of Food Truck Fare is a new tasting event coming to The Autry this Friday. Come sample dishes representing a century of food trucks and discover the historic flavors of items such as tamales and oyster cocktails, then experience the modern versions of food cart cuisine from contemporary chefs.

2. The Landmark Regent presents two screenings of The Room with Tommy Wiseau in person this Friday.

3. Head to The Madelin Garden in Pasadena for high tea and a performance of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. Happening Friday through Sunday. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

4. Visit Angel City Brewery for a free live taping of the popular podcast Go Fact Yourself quizzes comedians, actors and musicians about topics they claim expertise in. If they slip up, real experts on hand share the actual facts.

5. Caltech Astronomy presents a free stargazing and panel event focused on The Milky Way’s crash course with Andromeda. No reservations are needed, the lecture is 30 minutes long and stargazing lasts 90 minutes. FREE

6. Greenbar Distillery will open up their facility for a tour of their organic distillery. The tour is one hour long and guests will have a chance to learn about the process of spirit making and taste some of the Greenbar portfolio.

7. 4th Fridays on 4th Street activates the “Retro Road” business district in Long Beach on the fourth Friday of every month from 6 to 9 p.m. through extended hours, dining specials, discounted merchandise, pop up shops, art shows, live music, double decker bus rides and more.

8.The world’s first premium cinematic VR chair, Voyager will screen three critically acclaimed short films at the Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles from February 19-25. Check for discounted ticketsbefore making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

9. Palm Springs Modernism Week returns February 15-25 to celebrate all things midcentury modern including architecture, art, interior landscape design and vintage culture.

10. QuiltCon 2018 takes over the Pasadena Convention Center from February 22-25 to see over 550 modern quilts on display, shop from specialty vendors and attend workshops and lectures led by experts.

Saturday February 24th, 2018

11. It’s Bob Baker Day at the historic Bob Baker Marionette Theater. The day pays homage to the famed puppeteer with a carnival like event featuring live music, entertainment, puppet-making workshops, round-the-clock puppet shows, a pop-up puppet museum and lots more. FREE

12. Meet travel celebs like PBS’ Rick Steves and Samantha Brown, learn how to pack well and decide where to go for your next trip during the Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center happening February 24-25. Check for discount tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

13. Stop by the Firecracker Festival in Los Angeles’ Chinatown for two days filled with friendly-competition, carnival games, food trucks and more.

14. Celebrate like it’s 1928 during Venice Arts’ Annual Speakeasy at the Townhouse. The Prohibition-era Speakeasy which dates back to 1915 will feature complimentary whiskey tasting, appetizers and desserts from local restaurants, along with a silent auction, raffle prizes and other surprises.

15. FLAX Project presents “The Dialectic of the Stars,” a free art festival taking place at five iconic venues in Los Angeles in the month of February. The festival will feature stimulating arts events incorporating cinema, music, mobile artworks, a concert of motorcycles, dance and more. This Saturday the event continues at L.A. Dance Project with a screening of The Pit and a performance by Noé Soulier. FREE

16. Milk Bar join forces with fashion label Reformation for a tasty pop-up at their Melrose location. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. swing by Reformation to shop through the sustainable brands collection and snack on Milk Bar’s cookies, truffles, and their new Crack Pie Latte. Customers with a Reformation purchase will also get a free treat so shop away!

17. SAP Chili Cook Off returns to Santa Anita Park in Arcadia for a tasty competition in the categories of red chili, green chili, salsa, CASI (Chili Appreciation Society) chili, people’s choice, and most tasted. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

18. Playful Los Angeles lifestyle brand ban.do will host a huge warehouse sale on Saturday and Sunday with up to 70% off accessories, shoes, stationery, jewelry, clothing and tons more. Expect over 12K items on sale over the weekend. Their sale also takes place online.

19. One special Saturday every month the  Griffith Observatory hosts a free public star party to highlight interest in observing the cosmos. The event is a great chance to try out a variety of telescopes, check out visible objects of our solar system and exchange ideas and knowledge with amateur astronomers. FREE

20. My Valley Pass and The Valley Relics Museum presents the San Fernando Valley Film Tour. Explore the Valley in a comfortable limo bus and check out some of the most iconic filming locations like Marty McFly’s house in Back To The Future to the guitar shop in Wayne’s World.

21. de Plume Gallery presents SHADE, new works by New York Surrealist ClockWork Cros. Over 400 portraits of famous faces wearing sunglasses made of clocks will line the floor to ceiling of the gallery.

22. Second Class Citizens is a new monthly political comedy show featuring underrepresented but hilarious voices happening at the Nerdist School in Los Angeles.

23. NO TASTE FOR BAD TASTE comes to the A+D Architecture and Design Museum in DTLA featuring forty cult objects in lifestyle design selected by forty international figures from the world of arts. These 21st century pieces were designed by or for figures such as Ligne Roset, Fermob, Philippe Starck, Hermés and more.

24. There’s a sample sale hosted by Charlotte Stone at their Platform Pop-Up space this Saturday and Sunday featuring additional brands like VereVerto, loup, Seek Collective, BackBeatRags and Graf + Lantz.

25. The 7th Annual Whittier Area Classic Car Show will feature live music, vendors, food trucks, games, dragsters and some of the coolest cars you’ll see in SoCal. FREE

26. The 27th Annual Alhambra Lunar New Year Celebration takes place this Saturday with a dragon/lion dance, magic show, petting zoo, food booths, a grand drum roll and much more. FREE

Sunday February 25th, 2018

27. KPCC in Person Presents Airtalk’s FilmWeek: 2018 Oscar Preview at the Ace Hotel. Larry Mantle and the film critics of KPCC’s AirTalk will convene on the stage to discuss and debate this year’s Oscar nominees for a special taping in front of a live audience.

28. Learn the Olympic sport of curling during this Sunday at the Ice Station in Valencia. DISCOUNTED

29. Dine Out Long Beach Restaurant Week 2.0 will host specially priced prix fixe lunches and dinners at some of the city’s best restaurants. From February 25 through March 3. To launch this seven-day culinary event, there will be a free Chef’s Cooking and Tasting Kick-Off on February 24 from noon to 4 p.m. at Friedmans Home Experience. Stella Artois will be hand to offer complimentary beer samples, while Blue Marble Cocktails will offer some pours of their own.

30. FLAX Project presents “The Dialectic of the Stars,” a free art festival taking place at five iconic venues in Los Angeles in the month of February. The festival will feature stimulating arts events incorporating cinema, music, mobile artworks, a concert of motorcycles, dance and more. This Sunday the event concludes at Zebulon with a screening of Animal Glisse and multiple performances. FREE

31. Take in a few laughs at the end of the weekend at Cool Beans Comedy at the Ice House in Pasadena. FREE

32. There’s a Ferrari Cruise-In happening at the Petersen Automotive Museum this Sunday to celebrate Enzo Ferrari’s birthday. The cruise-in will take place on the 3rd floor of the museum’s parking structure and all cars, trucks, and motorcycles are welcome. Coffee and snacks will be free to all attendees.

33. Friendship Buddies is a weekly stand-up comedy show at the Verdugo Bar in Glassell Park. Come hangout in the back patio, enjoy a cocktail, and LOL to outstanding stand-up comedians in Los Angeles. FREE

34. Free admission at: Craft and Folk Art Museum (pay what you can) and Museum of Latin American Art

Schedule provided by We Like LA. 

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Weekend Events: February 16 – 18

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.

Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).

This weekend in L.A. (February 16-18) includes the Chocolate & Art Show, NBA All-Star events, the Golden Dragon Parade, a Boozy Bake Off, and MUCH more.

Enjoy!

Friday February 16th, 2018

1. Palm Springs Modernism Week returns February 15-25 to celebrate all things midcentury modern including architecture, art, interior landscape design and vintage culture.

2. The Chocolate & Art Show Los Angeles returns to The Vortex in DTLA on February 16-17, with chocolate fondue, the work of up-and-coming artists & more.

3. The NBA All-star extravaganza is back for another year of fan celebrations, celebrity games and all things basketball. Beginning on February 16, then continuing till February 18, Los Angeles venues including Staples Center and Verizon Up Arena at Los Angeles Convention Center will host a variety of All-Star events, including showcases, games and trainings.

4. Jack Daniel’s has been selling its whiskey since 1866 and this weekend they will bring a pop-up shop to Los Angeles for just three days. From February 16-18, the Jack Daniel’s Lynchburg General Store will offer Angelenos a unique assortment of goods, services and events featuring live music and Southern food from Miss Mary Bobo’s, a Lynchburg institution for over a century.

5. See percussionist Antonio Sanchez performs his critically acclaimed score for Birdman at Royce Hallwhile the movie is projected behind him. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

6. Celebrate the Year of The Dog during a Lunar New Year Celebration at Hsi Lai Temple in Hacienda Heights. The temple will host Chinese traditional cultural performances and the grounds will be decorated with dog decorations. Happening all weekend.

7. Bootie LA presents a 90’s vs 80’s mashup night at the Echoplex this Friday.

8. The Groundlings Theatre presents their latest main stage show, Sweet Valley Groundlingsperforming this Friday. (DISCOUNTED) via Goldstar

9. The Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) continues through February 8-19. Now in its 26th year, the 12-day festival will showcase over 100 new films and the talented artists who created them.

10. Free admission at: Long Beach Museum of Art

Saturday February 17th, 2018

11. Celebrate the Year of the Dog during Lunar New Year at Santa Monica Place. Enjoy Asian-themed stilt walkers, traditional Korean fan dancers, Chinese music, The Voice’s Katherine Ho as emcee and more.

12. The 119th Golden Dragon Parade and Chinese New Year Festival returns to Los Angeles’ Chinatown with floats, marching bands, entertainers, a culinary stage, artisans & much more. FREE

13. Long Beach Comic Expo, a celebration of comic books and pop culture, returns to Long Beach Convention Center on February 17-18. Check for discount tickets for making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

14. Queen Mary’s ScotsFestival & International Highland Games XXV returns February 17-18 to celebrate 25 years of the annual event with an array of authentic Scottish activities, athletics, dancing, entertainment, drinks and cuisine. Check for discount tickets for making your purchase. DISCOUNTED(via Goldstar)

15. The 40z & Waffles Brunch Series is back for NBA All-Star Weekend. Not your ordinary Sunday Funday, attendees will enjoy brunch, cocktails, a surprise live performance and more at Viva Hollywood. Early-bird tickets are currently $40.

16. The American Youth Symphony celebrates Bernstein’s centennial with a free concert at Royce Hall this Saturday. FREE

17. The J. Paul Getty Museum will host a handful of free events to celebrate the Getty Center’s 20th anniversary, this Saturday and Sunday will host Afro-Cuban percussionist Francisco Aguabella (1925-2010) with two performances featuring Latin jazz standards and Aguabella’s original compositions. The series will run through May 20. FREE

18. The St. Valentine’s Day Speakeasy Party & Pie Fight hosted by Roaring 20’s Street Jams is a throw back extravaganza with music, dance, cocktails, a staged reenactment of the historic St. Valentine’s Day Massacre and one epic pie fight to close out the night. Check for discount tickets for making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

19. Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles will host an opening reception for Geta Brătescu. The Leaps of Aesop, the first Los Angeles solo show focusing on the work of the 92-year-old pioneer of Romanian Conceptualism. FREE

20. There’s a midnight showing of indie flick Once Upon A Superhero at the Hollywood Playhouse theatre. The screening will also have various live entertainment, music, comedy, a 420 market and food vendors.

21. Comedy show that’s BYOB and dog friendley? Yup On Deck Comedy is just that and they’ll be performing at the Nerdist Showroom this Saturday.

22. Long Beach Mardi Gras takes over Shoreline Village with a full day of music, dance, parades, and more. The party is free to attend and guests are encouraged to dress up. FREE

23. See My Neighbor Totoro in 35mm at the Aero Theatre this Saturday.

Sunday February 18th, 2018

24. The Great Boozy Bake Off will take place at Angel City Brewery in DTLA this Sunday. The bake off will feature bakers testing their skill at incorporating booze into cupcakes, candies, breads and more. A $2o ticket gets you a sampling of all the contestants creations and all proceeds will be donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. There will also be games, a cookie-decorating station and more to be announced. Beer is not included in the ticket price.

25. FLAX Project presents “The Dialectic of the Stars,” a free art festival taking place at five iconic venues in Los Angeles in the month of February. The festival will feature stimulating arts events incorporating cinema, music, mobile artworks, a concert of motorcycles, dance and more. This Friday the event continues at Ford Theatres with installations and performance throughout venue. FREE

26. The New Bad Boys of Magic have got some dirty tricks up their sleeves at Hollywood’s Three Clubs Cocktail Lounge this Sunday. These boys are fresh off of their sold-out run at the Hollywood Fringe Festival so expect some magic you’ve never seen before.

27. The Minor Threat art exhibit pays homage to the 80’s straight edge band of the same name with more than a dozen artists and vendors showcasing mixed media work, plus live music. Taking place this Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. at 5 Star Bar in Downtown. Tickets are $20 at the door. You can read more background here via LA Taco.

28. L.A. Stories combines writers and musicians to create a story inspired by living in Los Angeles. This music and storytelling show will have performances about the L.A. droughts, celebrities, dating in L.A. moving to L.A. and more.

Schedule provided by We Like LA. 

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Hidden Cultural Gems in Los Angeles

Sure, it’s great to spend your weekends watching Marvel movies and DVRing Vanderpump Rules on the DL. But sometimes, you want to do something a little more refined. A little more elegant. Perhaps, you’d like to partake in an activity with a little… culture.

If the last “art” exhibit you liked was a beauty influencer’s Instagram, it might be time to break out of your routine and tour some of the cultural highlights of Southern California. Luckily, Los Angeles is surrounded by lovely locales that offer the chance to experience fine art, dance, film, and history, all while taking a break from the city. So, plan a weekend day away and visit one of these cultural gems just outside of LA.

MISSION TIKI DRIVE-IN THEATRE

Montclair
Sure, it’s nothing fancy, but drive-ins are a dying breed and the Mission Tiki Drive-In is happily keeping the tradition alive. The tiki theme only applies to the ticket booths and snack stand (with a few tiki torches strewn about for good measure), and the theater provides a surprisingly good movie-watching experience. Its concession stand offers truly tasty Mexican food, the projection is bright and clear, and you can get huge buckets of salty, salty popcorn. Watch two movies for $9. Plus, if the double feature sucks, you can make out with whoever you came with!

If you want to make a day of it, check out the huge flea market that takes over the drive-in during daylight hours. With 300 vendors, you’re sure to find a hidden gem. Admission ranges from free to 75 cents per person — so you might need to dig into your change purse (or cupholders) to get in.

DONHOLTZ.COM

OLD TOWN MUSIC HALL

El Segundo
Pipe organ music might make you think of minor league baseball games and low-rent skating rinks, but when you see the The Old Town Hall’s Mighty Wurlitzer play, it’s truly amazing. The venue plays an array of classic, short, and silent films; and all non-talkies feature live accompaniment on the 2,600-pipe organ.

The $10 ticket gets you a live ragtime piano performance, a number from the Mighty Wurlitzer, a sing-a-long to 70-year-old hits like “Mairzy Doats,” and a full-length feature. Or you can visit the Music Hall to hear concerts of the best jazz and ragtime piano around.

The community atmosphere of the Old Town Music Hall and commitment to keeping an old artform alive is surprisingly touching. When’s the last time you could say that about the newest blockbuster?

MOISES RODRIGUIZ

HERITAGE SQUARE MUSEUM

Los Angeles
Disappear into another time without leaving the city limits. Tucked into a corner of Los Angeles proper, there lives a tiny neighborhood of Victorian homes. The Heritage Square Museum offers tours of these old homes, giving you a glimpse into the late 19th-century version of LA. Spoiler alert: There was a lot less bleached hair and a lot more cows.

Check out their rotating exhibits like Victorian Valentine’s Day Fashion & Ephemera or a collection of antique stereoscopes, aka the 1890s’ 3D technology. Yes, even in Victorian times people loved wasting their money on 3D entertainment. 

JACKHARTIN

BACKHAUSDANCE

Orange
The critically-acclaimed Backhausdance company performs contemporary dance for a modern audience, with its diverse company giving life to a mix of new and revived works. Each summer, the theater offers a pre-professional dance program to train future dancers, and gives full scholarships to over half the students in an effort to bring dance to a wider community.

And the repertory is inclusive, too: This year alone, Backhausdance is hosting the US and World premiere performances of pieces by acclaimed Italian and Israeli choreographers.Theirs is a season that appeals to contemporary dance aficionados and “Whoa, he kicked his leg real high” audiences alike.

NICO MARQUES

BRAND LIBRARY

Glendale
Sure, a trip to the library might sound like some kind of punishment. But most libraries aren’t the Brand Library. Looking like some kind of beautiful Spanish castle, this branch of the Glendale Public Library is worth a visit for the architecture alone.

Plus, these beautiful grounds hold more than just books. Enjoy performances from concert musicians, professional dance troupes, and even the California Philharmonic as part of their music and dance series. Hear authors discuss their latest works, chat about all the hot opera goss in their Opera Talk series, and even join a crafty book club where you create a piece of art based on the book of the month. It’s all free and a much more cultured way to spend a Saturday morning than accidentally sleeping ’til noon.

KAY KOCHENDERFER TOOMEY

PASADENA SYMPHONY

Pasadena
What’s classier than listening to classical music? Nothing. Classy is right there in the name. You have to spell classical wrong, but… you get the point. Pasadena is home to an incredible symphony that plays all the hits — Stravinsky, Rachmaninoff, Beethoven. They’ve yet to cover “Gucci Gang,” but we’re sure it’s in their repertoire.

All performances take place in the Ambassador Auditorium, a beautiful building that looks like a prettier version of the Metropolitan Opera House (suck on that, New York!). Take in the gorgeous grounds and experience the standards as played by one of the greatest symphonies in America. Season tickets start as low as $99 and single tickets usually only cost around $35. That’s the price of an IMAX Transformers movie and a small soda, so a trip to the symphony might be a better choice.

MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART

MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART

Long Beach
Los Angeles is full of museums, but you’ve got to head out to Long Beach to find a real one-of-a-kind collection: The Museum of Latin American Art is the only museum in the US to exclusively feature works by people of Latin American decent.

With exhibitions like “Relational Undercurrents: Contemporary Art of the Caribbean Archipelago,” this museum delves deep into the historical and political context of its works. For only $10, you get to see beautiful modern art from a severely underrepresented group. Plus, your support helps the museum grow and maybe, one day, we could have two whole museums of Latin American Art in the country.

RUBICON THEATRE COMPANY

Ventura
As the Rubicon entered its 20th season, the Thomas Fire threatened to wipe it out. Thankfully, the flames spared the former-church-turned-theater and the town of Ventura has helped keep this institution alive.

Though it’s about an hour north of Los Angeles, the Rubicon routinely brings Broadway-level talent to this beachside town. The theater’s adventurous mix of classic musicals, concerts, and world-premiere productions gives the citizens of Ventura some of the best theater in all of Southern California.

Plus, there’s an amazing tiki bar, VenTiki Lounge & Lanai, right down the street, and it’s a 10-minute walk to the beach. So, there’s really no good reason not to visit the Rubicon.

Article by Thrillist. 

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