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November is here and you need a plan, right? No prob. We’re here to help.
Coming up this month in Los Angeles you’ll find Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden, Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Garden, Inglewood Opens Studios, IndieCade at The Music Center, the L.A. Auto Show at the Convention Center, Noon to Midnight with the LA Phil, the Great Los Angeles Walk, the Pasadena Doo Dah Parade, and much more. Let’s get into the full list of options below!
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Things To Do This November
M = Less than .5 miles from an L.A. Metro Station, FA = Free Admission, TP = Top Pick
Día de los Muertos at the Santa Monica Pier (November 1-2) -> This free, family-friendly event includes ballet folklórico performances, altars by artists Sylvia Sanchez and Yolanda Medina, kids’ activities, an artisan market, live mariachi music, an art installation at the historic carousel, and, on Saturday, a parade led by Aztec dancers starting at the Pier’s west end. Attendees are encouraged to dress in Día de los Muertos attire. More info here.
Downtown Día de los Muertos (October 19 to November 2) – M FA > Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos welcomes parkgoers to contribute to a community altar, enjoy family-friendly activities, a free film screening, and the first Downtown Día de Muertos parade. Free to visit any time of day. Get more info here.
Día de Los Muertos Celebration at the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse (November 1) – FA M > The Mission Playhouse invites everyone to a Dia de Los Muertos Celebration from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Mission Playhouse Plaza. Attendees can come together to pay tribute to their departed loved ones through the communal altar, enjoy live music, and refreshments. Free to attend. More info here.
Applefest Fall Festival at Benny Boy Brewing (November 2-3) – FA > Benny Boy Brewing welcomes the cozy season with a weekend of fall-inspired festivities. Indulge in comfort food from River Street BBQ, Zef BBQ, Dumpling Dream, and Thicc Burger, and sip on mulled cider or be the first to try Winter’s Hug, Benny Boy’s new dessert-style ice cider. Get in on the action with the Community eCrush, where you can help with apple sorting and pressing. Enjoy live music, shop fall-themed goods, and soak up the autumn vibes. Free to attend, 21+ only. More info heere.
SHG’s 51st Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration (November 2) -> Self-Help Graphics presents their 51st Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration at the LA County Civic Center Park in East LA. The event includes a community procession be led on the Metro L Line, from Mariachi Plaza to Civic Center where the main events will take place. The main hub will feature special altars, live music, 40+ local artists and artisans selling handmade goods, along with a street food marketplace. Event runs from 3 to 8 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
24th Street Theatre Día de los Muertos (November 2) – FA > 24th Street Theatre’s Día de los Muertos Festival is baa the annual event draws thousands of guests, offering an evening of live performances, food vendors, artisan booths, altars, art installations, and a cemetery of remembrance. Runs 6 to 10 p.m., and free to attend. More info here.
Día de Los Muertos at PetSpace (November 2) – FA -> Wallis Annenberg PetSpace hosts its first Dia de los Muertos celebration honoring pets. There will be a pet communal ofrenda (guests are welcome to bring a photo of their pet). Pets and their owners can also enjoy snacks and beverages, fun photo-ops, crafts, face painting and music. More info here.
West Adams Día de los Muertos Block Party (November 2) -> Join Midcity Mercado and L.A. City Council District 10 for the 2nd annual West Adams Día de los Muertos Block Party Festival. West Adams will come alive with live music, food trucks, art exhibitions, mural painting, a Ferris wheel, and a community altar designed for collective healing and celebration. Guests are invited to add photos to the altar. More info here.
Night Market Rising with 88Rising (November 2-3) -> 88Rising’s Night Market Neighborhood pops up at the Guess Jeans Campus this November with a two-day extravaganza of music, art, and retail combining elements of Asian night markets and Western-style flea markets. Expect 90+ vendors in food, drink, dessert, art, stationery, jewelry, plants, fashion, plus movie screenings, dance tunes, plus mahjong and carnival games. Tickets start at $15.18. Runs 2 to 10 p.m. each day. More info here.
Beautycon Los Angeles (November 2-3) -> Beautycon is a two-day beauty convention featuring beauty masterclasses, panels by experts and creators, a marketplace to ship directly from top brands, plus plenty of photo opportunities. This year the event takes place in West Los Angeles at Buttercup Venues. VIP tickets cost $299 and includes perks like a goodie bag and early access. GA tickets cost $49 for weekend access and $29 for one day access. More info here.
Downtown Long Beach Día de Los Muertos Parade + Festival (November 2-3) -> Downtown Long Beach hosts Día de Los Muertos parade along Pine Ave. coinciding with an Arte y Ofrendas Festival at Marina Green Park featuring live music, and an artisan mercado. The parade will run on Saturday, November 3 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with a route that stretches from Pine and 3rd Ave. to Shoreline Drive. The festival at Marina Green Park takes place on Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., then again the following day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s all free and open to the public! More info here.
Godzilla-Thon! at the Academy Museum (November 3) -> The Academy Museum celebrates the 70th anniversary of the original Gojira with a full-day Godzilla movie marathon, Godzilla-Thon! Featuring five screenings of both classic and contemporary Godzilla films, the event also includes a Godzilla-themed stop-motion animation workshop, a Godzilla piñata, and a special meet-and-greet with the legendary kaiju. Tickets cost $25. More info here.
The 2nd Annual Great Pumpkin Bash – FA > If you still need to get rid of your days-old jack-o-lanterns and want to make sure it gets composted correctly, why not make a party? Swing over to Pan Pacific Park on Sunday, November 3 for the 2nd Annual Great Pumpkin Bash where you’ll find a host of gardening workshops and demos, giveaways, food trucks and a Pumpkin Smash Zone. Runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
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Día de los Muertos at the Natural History Museum (November 3) – M > Join the Natural History Museum as they celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Experience live music, take part in creative art activities, and explore NHM’s ofrenda (altar) dedicated to the memory of the departed. Access to the celebration is included in admission. More info here.
Día de los Muertos at the Fowler Museum (November 3)-> Día de los Muertos comes to UCLA as the Fowler Museum hosts an afternoon of live music, ofrenda making, and pastries from La Monarca Bakery & Cafe. As part of the events, guests can tour the Fowler exhibition Descanse en Paz: Memorial Paintings from 19th-Century Mexico, participate in mini ofrenda arts-making activities, or enjoy music from Mariachi Alta California at the Fowler Amphitheater. The program runs from 2 to 4 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
Democracy Sessions at MOCA (November 8–10) –M FA TP > The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and orchestral collective Wild Up present Democracy Sessions, a free three-day arts event exploring democratic and cooperative practices amid a pivotal moment in U.S. political history. Following the 2024 Presidential election, Democracy Sessions invites the public to engage with themes of creativity, justice, and liberation through music and social gatherings. The program takes place at WAREHOUSE at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, this event is part of Wonmi’s WAREHOUSE Programs. More info here.
South Central Film Festival (November 8-9) – FA > The third annual South Central Film Festival returns to Mercado La Paloma this November with back-to-back days showcasing emerging creatives voices from a diverse set of backgrounds and communities. This year’s fest includes three separart short film blocks over two nights, all spaced out by panel discussions, DJ sets, and capped by a live musical performance. Tickets are free with RVSP. Get more info here.
Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst The Stars (November 8 to December 15) -> The South Coast Botanic Garden again morphs into a multi-sensory celestial pathway where guests will walk amongst the stars thanks to brilliant lights, cosmic visions, and astral song. Adult tickets start at $39 and there’s an additional fee for parking. More info here.
Quantum Vibrations Performances by USC Annenberg (November 9 & 17) – FA > As part of PST ART: Art and Science Collide, USC Annenberg presents Quantum Vibrations, a two-part series of free performances. On November 9, A Song on the Meadow is a Song in the City features Quetzal and La Familia Gutiérrez at the La Brea Tar Pits. Then, on November 17, experience A Day of Quantum Listening with Claire Chase at The Ebell. More info here.
Land’s End Performance (November 9) –> The L.A. Choral Lab, in collaboration with AltaSea and the Port of Los Angeles, presents Land’s End, a unique concert experience showcasing L.A.-based artists in one-of-a-kind venues. Held at Berth 60 in the Port of Los Angeles, this musical and sensory performance includes three pieces by local composers—including a world premiere—and marks the first choral event of its kind in this location. Tickets start at $28.52. More info here.
Inglewood Open Studios (November 9-10) FA – The annual Inglewood Open Studios art walk offers a mix of tours and talks at galleries and artists studios in and around the city of Inglewood. There are a slate of special events happening at the Inglewood Public Library, a fashion show at ECF Art Centers, and an after party on November 9, 2024 at Lalo’s Grill. More info here.
Jackalope Pasadena (November 9-10) – M FA > Indie craft market Jackalope returns to Central Park in Old Pasadena for a two-day, pop-up marketplace with over 200 local, hand-selected artisans. Free to attend. Runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. More info here.
4th Annual Making Memories Festival (November 9) – M > November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and for the fourth year in a row Alzheimer’s Los Angeles hosts a special benefit concert at LA State Historic Park to raise funds and awareness for the cause. This year’s festival lineup features with White Denim, Boogaloo Assassins, Jackie Mendez & The Steady 45’s, Circle The Earth and Monalisa. Expect food truck vendors, games, special activities, and an exhibitor area as well. Tickets cost $25. More info here.
PST ART: Art x Science Family Festival (November 9) – FA > La Brea Tar Pits hosts the PST ART: Art x Science Family Festival, which will offer three days of family-focused and kid-friendly art and educational experiences, including a rolling program of shows and performances throughout each day produced by the Edinburgh Science Festival. Runes 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Free to attend. Get more info here.
Spaghetti Festival at The Elysian (November 9-10 )-> The Elysian Theater hosts two days of new plays and performances produced by emerging talent, all being presented for the first time, and all in the spirit of “let’s throw it against the wall and see what sticks!” Get tickets, more information and see the full lineup of shows here.
Pasadena Artazan Handcraft Market (November 9-10) -> Artazan comes to the Pasadena Convention Center for a two-day event exploring all things hand crafted. Over 200 exhibitors are participating from jewelry to woodwork, ceramics, clothing and food. Tickets cost $8. More info here.
Listening by Moonrise (November 15) – M FA > Clockshop’s Listening by Moonrise quarterly series returns to L.A. State Historic Park with performances by Los Angeles-based artists Maral and SY3. Free to attend as always. Get more info here.
IndieCade (November 15-16) – M FA > The Music Center and IndieCade team up for Night Games, which showcases the creativity and innovation of the indie game community over two nights at Jerry Moss Plaza with tons of solo and multi-player games to enjoy. Runs 6 to 10 p.m. both nights. Free to attend. More info here.
L.A. Zoo Lights ( November 15 – January 5, 2025) -> The Los Angeles Zoo’s brightest annual tradition will transform the zoo grounds into a world of light and holiday magic. The after-hours event offers brightly lit displays and festive family-friendly experience every night throughout the entire holiday season. Adult tickets range from $29-$35, depending on the desired date to attend. More info here.
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Noon to Midnight LA Phil (November 16) -> The LA Phil’s annual new-music marathon is back this November with a fresh 12-hour slate of performances and art installations spread throughout Walt Disney Concert Hall, all curated by Pulitzer-prize winning composer Ellen Reid and paired with onsite food trucks and a beer garden. GA tickets start at $12, but keep in mind those do not provide entry to Doug Aitken’s Lightscape evening concert that caps off the event. More info here.
Vulture Festival (November 16-17) – M > The Vulture Festival is back for two days of actors in conversation, special screenings and panels, rare performances and workshops at NYA studios. Highlights include The Simpsons Live Oral History, Julio Torres’s Favorite Colors, Kat Williams is here, The Skeleton Twins Reunion With Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader and much more. Tickets for individual sessions start at $40. More info here.
Autumn Festival at The Aquarium (November 16-17) – M > This annual two-day event at The Aquarium of the Pacific celebrates Asian culture through traditional craft demonstrations, music, dance, cultural arts exhibits, and storytelling. Festival activities are included with general admission to the Aquarium, which starts at $44.95 for adults. Get more info here.
Renegade Craft (November 16-17) – M FA > Renegade Craft market once again pops up for a day-two affair at Los Angeles State Historic Park featuring over 275 craft designers, artists, and creative vendors. Free to attend. More info here.
The Pasadena Armenian Festival (November 16) – FA > Celebrate the vibrant culture of Armenia at the Pasadena Armenian Festival, bringing Armenian traditions, arts, and cuisine to Victory Park in the San Gabriel Valley. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. More info here.
SPARKLE Grand Debut (November 16) – M FA > The 2024 edition of the holiday lights installation SPARKLE DTLA at The Bloc kicks with live entertainment and more to be announced. Happening from 5 to 7 p.m. More info here.
NHM Commons Opening Day Celebration (November 17)-> To celebrate the debut of NHM Commons, a new community hub in Exposition Park, Natural History Museum is hosting a free block party on opening day which will show off the new indoor/outdoor space with a day of live music, special performances, plus food and drinks by South LA Café. Note that while events on the Commons Plaza and Theater will be free to the public on this day, you’ll need a ticket to check out the exhibits/activations inside Natural History Museum. More info here.
Voices of Heritage: Celebrating Indigenous and Jewish Languages and Cultures (November 17) -> Join the Skirball for a day-long, intergenerational celebration of Indigenous and Jewish languages and cultures. The event features engaging panel discussions, interactive activities and games, and performances including poetry, music, and more. This event is free to attend with museum admission ($18). More info here.
Enchanted: Forest of Light (November 17 – January 5, 2025) -> Descanso Gardens’ annual light spectacle is back this November with a range of wondrous, illuminated installations spread throughout the grounds, from 3-D geometric sculptures in the Rose Garden to a glowing meadow grass installation among the oaks. Adult tickets cost $22-$45 for non-members. More info here.
35th Annual Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting (November 20) – FA > Manhattan Beach kicks off the holiday season with a night on the pier featuring live community performances, carolers, and holiday activities including photo ops with live reindeer. Event runs 6 to 9 p.m. More info here.
Watson Lecture Series (November 20) – FA > Cal Tech’s November installment of the Watson Lecture series will feature Katerina Chatziioannou, Assistant Professor of Physics, who will lead a discussion the violent collisions of black holes and neutron stars. Free to attend as always. Get more info here.
Locals’ Night at the Santa Monica Pier (next up November 21) -> Every third Thursday from September to May, Locals’ Night brings at the Santa Monica Pier offers a free evening of youth activities, a car show, local DJs and live music from local bands, and art exhibits. More info here.
Pershing Square Holiday Ice (November 21 – January 12, 2025) – M > The 7,200 square foot skating rink in the heart of DTLA returns for the holiday season. GA tickets, including skate rental, cost $20 for adults. More info here.
L.A. Auto Show (November 22- December 1) – M > The nation’s top auto show returns to the Los Angeles Convention Center for a ten-day affair featuring a who’s who of automotive exhibitors, plus vehicle test drives, activations, and family-friendly entertainment. Single day tickets start at $22.80 for adults. More info here.
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Great Los Angeles Walk ( November 23) M FA – The longstanding bi-pedal tradition will meet at the oldest palm tree in Los Angeles, found in Exposition Park and then the group will make their way all the way to UCLA. More info here.
Latino Comics Festival (November 23–24)- FA > The Museum of Latina American Art in Long Beach is hosting a Latino Comics Expo over two days in November. The vendor lineup includes an array of Latino comics creators, authors, animators, cartoonists, designers, and zine makers, plus food trucks and a Children’s Chalk area. Day one (Saturday) is included with museum admission and Sunday is free for all. More info here.
Annual Moby Dick Reading (November 23–24) – FA > Join the Venice Oceanarium for a beloved Venice Beach tradition, now in its 29th year! From sunrise to sunset, the public is invited to listen or volunteer to read from Herman Melville’s Moby Dick. More info here.
Burbank Winter Wine Walk (November 23) -> Celebrate the season with a wine stroll in Downtown Burbank where guests will enjoy wine tasting stations, live entertainment and a street lined with vendors to help you shop for the holidays. Entertainment and the marketplace is free to attend, the wine tasting portion start at $55 a person. More info here.
Pasadena Doo Dah Parade (November 24) – M FA > The Pasadena Doo Dah Parade returns for its 45th edition, featuring an irreverent and oddball cast of characters marching down Colorado Blvd in Old Pasadena. More info here.
Holiday Road (November 29 – December 28)-> Holiday Road returns to King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas for its fourth year, bringing a 1-mile walking trail of immersive scenes and holiday-themed activities for all to enjoy. The experience continues on select dates through December 28. Tickets range from $24.99-$34.99. Get more info here.
Yuletide Cinemaland (November 30 through December 23) – M > Street Food Cinema’s Yuletide Cinemaland is back with a three-week season of holiday films screened on select nights at Hertiage Square Museum, all starting on November 30. The lineup includes classics like Elf, A Christmas Story, and Home Alone, all screened under the stars and paired with ugly sweater contests, pajama nights, and guided tours of the Victorian mansions onsite at Heritage Square. Adult tIckets start at $34.00 (parking not included). Get more info here.
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