Posted by 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 decided to curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles every week end that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).
This weekend includes First Fridays, The LA Gadget Expo, holiday markets in DTLA, an ugly sweater party, holiday lights at the Getty, a mac & cheese smackdown, and plenty more to choose from.
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So grab some friends or go at it alone, but most importantly have fun and enjoy yourself!
[RELATED: The Best Way to Find Discount Events in Los Angeles]
[REMINDER: In some cases We Like L.A. does receive revenue when visitors click on ticket links and make purchases, however we maintain complete editorial control over the events we suggest. Basically, it only makes it on to the website if we think it is cool!]
Friday December 4th, 2015
1. All Space Considered
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.
2. Month-Long Public Art Exhibition Takes Over Billboards Across Los Angeles
The Billboard Creative will place 33 contemporary artists’ works on billboards across Los Angeles displayed at major intersections throughout the city. The first billboard display will go up on December 1 with plans to have all the rest installed by December 7. The works will be up for one month only.
3. Disney Pixar’s “The Good Dinosaur” Journeys To El Capitan Theatre
Hollywood’s legendary El Capitan Theatre presents a special engagement of Disney Pixar’s “The Good Dinosaur” now through December 13, 2015. Before the movie, El Capitan guests will be treated to an all-new live musical show, celebrating 20 years of Pixar movies. Each screening also includes Disney Pixar’s new short, “Sanjay’s Super Team.” For more information and discount tickets all weekend, check out Goldstar.
4. Lights on Display in Sherman Oaks
Sherman Oaks resident Mike Ziemkowski takes his Christmas decorating a bit more seriously than you, and that’s perfectly fine by us. From computer controlled lighting to DMX controlled intelligent light to animatronic characters synched to an epic preprogrammed playlist of holiday tunes and a Snowman DJ called DJ Jingles this free display is something you have to see live. Runs now until January 1.
5. Free Performances Of A Christmas Carol With Charles Dickens At The Village at Westfield Topanga
The Independent Shakespeare Co. producers of the Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival, presents the 10th anniversary production of A Christmas Carol With Charles Dickens at the Westfield! Four admission-free performances will take place Thursday, December 3 through Sunday December 6. For more information on times and location visit their event page here.
6. The Village Walk Holiday Festival “Jingle in the Jungle”
The Village in Tarzana is hosting a tree lighting ceremony with an evening of free photos with Santa, live reindeer, carolers, live music, a toy and food drive, free face painting, complimentary snacks and refreshments and special discounts at participating Village Walk shops and restaurants.
7. Inotheke, Modern Greek Now Open!
Inotheke is Carolos Tomazos (Waterloo City) latest restaurant. Focused on Modern Greek cuisine influenced by the Mediterranean island country of Cyprus, dishes are made for sharing and include: crisp salads and succulent meats to intricate seafood offerings and a handful of traditional Greek dishes but with modern a twists of course.
8. Knuckle & Claw Now Offering Lobster Pot Pies & Oysters
Launching Thursday, Knuckle & Claw will offer lobster pot pies and a variety of oysters. The pot pie is a heavenly option with a flakey top and melt-in-your-mouth lobster. The oyster selection will include Kumamoto oysters from Puget Sound, WA as well as Kusshi oysters from Baynes Sound, BC.
9. Holiday Markets:
The Harvest Festival is a massive craft fair with over 24,000 original works, from artisanal foods to handmade jewelry and art work. Your ticket is good for the entire weekend so don’t worry if you can’t get to every booth in one day!
The pop-up menswear bazaar Northern Grade is taking over an 8,000-square-foot space in the Arts District in DTLA for a three day shopping event. Expect clothing, accessories, footwear, decor, and more from labels like Civilianaire, Iron and Resin, Rogue Territory, Freenote, Ernest Supplies, and more. Of course it’s not a party without booze! Enjoy tastings from Brooklyn Gin, drinks from Churchkey Beer, plenty of food, and music too.
10. Sample Sales:
Score discounted Whitney Eve digs during their sample sale this Friday from 10:00am – 4:00pm. Cash and credit both accepted. Location: 833 S. Spring St. #202 Los Angeles, CA 90014
Line + Dot is having a sample sale, score up to 70% off during this winter sale. Happening this Saturday from 9:00am – 2:00pm. The sale is cash only so plan accordingly. Location: 2807 S. Sante Fe Vernon, CA 90058
Visit the California Market Center for amazing shopping deals during their Holiday Sample Sale event. Score incredible gifts in hundreds of showrooms carrying apparel for men, women, children as well as gift & home items all way below-retail prices.
11. Free Museum Days:
The Pasadena Museum of California Art has free admission for 12:00pm – 5:00pm this Friday.
The Long Beach Museum of Art is free every Friday!
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The Norton Simon Museum has free admission from 5:00pm to close this Friday.
13. First Fridays Events:
On the first Friday of the month head down to Abbott Kiney Blvd. for First Fridays at Venice Beach. Expect tons of food trucks, open galleries and late-night shopping. Get more information via the official event blog.
Bixby Knolls First Fridays is an art walk, dining and shopping experience where participating businesses in the Long Beach neighborhood of Bixby Knolls businesses unite to promote local artists and musicians through extended operating hours. Fun for all-ages… and free!
Saturday December 5th, 2015
14. 2nd Annual Ugly Sweater Party
At least once a year you need to break out your hideous holiday wardrobe, right? This Saturday head over to Club Nokia at LA Live for the 2nd Annual Ugly Sweater Party featuring a DJ, contest prizes, and cash bar. Ticket proceeds go to benefit the non-profit Inner-City Arts. Get more information and discount tickets to the event via Goldstar.
15. Love Actually At The Electric Dusk Drive-In
The Electric Dusk Drive-in will be screening everyone’s favorite holiday romance flick, Love Actually. This drive in provides a gorgeous backdrop of DTLA, perfect for a date night. Reserve your spot before tickets run out! Drive-in spots vary in price and lawn seating is also an option.
16. L.A. Gadget Expo
The first ever LA Gadget Expo is coming to the Reef in DTLA December 5-6. The expo will offer gadget enthusiasts and corporate buyers a huge display of new gadgets for purchase in areas ranging from fitness and mobile technology to transportation gadgets, wearables, multi-tools, every carry-items, design tools and more.
17. Knott’s Berry Farm’s “Knott’s Merry Farm”
Christmas is in full effect at Knott’s Berry Farm! Charlie Brown and friends are the theme this year. Watch Snoopy dance on ice in the “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” show and Chuck celebrates the holiday with the Peanuts gang in the live show “Christmas Time Is Here, Charlie Brown.” Our friends at Goldstar is offering discount ticket packages all throughout the month!
18. Getty Holiday Lights
Every Saturday during Holiday Lights at the Getty you can catch a sunset at magic hour, take a stroll through the Central Garden of twinkling tress and stay warm with some complimentary mulled cider.
19. Elf at the Million Dollar Theater
The folks over at Street Food Cinema are producing a special screening of the holiday classic Elf this Saturday night at the Million Dollar Theater in DTLA that includes live carolers and holiday food treats. Get more information and discount tickets via Goldstar.
20. CHILL at the Queen Mary
The Queen Mary will once again be overtaken by a deep freeze for the fourth annual CHILL! Experience the Ice Kingdom, glacier glide ice tubing, ice skating and plenty of holiday entertainment. P.S. The Ice Kingdom will be introducing the New Holiday Ice Bar for adults! For more information and discounted tickets seven days a week, visit our friends at Goldstar.
21. Winter Wonderland At The Malibu Country Mart
The Malibu Country Mart will host their annual Winter Wonderland celebration throughout the month of December. The Mart will be beautifully decorated with festive holiday décor and visitors can enjoy weekly events with holiday-themed activities like strolling Victorian carolers, kid-friendly holiday crafts, cookie decorating, and visits from Santa Claus with real live reindeer!
22. Holiday Harbor Boat Parade
This LA Harbor Boat Parade is going with a theme of ‘Santa’s Minions’ to celebrate their 53rd annual event. Be sure to check this post for the best viewing spots and locations along the parade route.
23. Pasadena’s South Lake Avenue’s Annual Holiday-fest
Pasadena’s South Lake Avenue’s annual Holiday-fest is back on Saturday, December 5 bringing plenty of free cheer, festive activities, live music and even horse & carriage rides. Additional seasonal activities include photos with Santa, roaming characters, carolers, holiday crafts, kids activities, a themed scavenger hunt, giveaways along with an outdoor music performance from Southern California bands DWNTWN, The Dustbowl Revival and Magic Giant
24. LA International Tea Festival
The 5th Annual Los Angeles International Tea Festival will be making it’s way to DTLA’s Japanese American National Museum on December 5-6 and features 30+ exhibitors and 25+ classes over the span of the weekend.
25. Star Wars Themed Open House Hosted By The spcaLA
The spcaLA and Long Beach Animal Care Services is hosting an Intergalactic Open House with cats and dogs costumed as Star Wars characters! Adopt a little Jedi this holiday season and enjoy some family friendly activities such as: a pop-up roller rink, bounce house, face painting, food trucks and more.
26. Rodarte Sample Sale
L.A. based fashion powerhouse Rodarte is having a sample sales. Prepare to buy cult favorite t-shirts and sweatshirts from the label for a fraction of retail prices AND of course steep discounts on coveted ready to wear, foot wear and more. As always the secret location and time will only be revealed to guests who email [email protected] with their RSVP. We’re guessing the location will be at 409 West Olympic Boulevard in Downtown where it’s been for years now.
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27. Holiday Markets:
Whimsic Alley is host their annual Holiday craft fair this Saturday and Sunday! Sure to be full of Doctor Who, GOT and Harry Potter items.
Artisanal LA’s Holiday Market will take place in Old Pasadena. Shop unique holiday gifts from 150 local makers and 150 indie businesses as three city streets come together to present an all-day market inspired experience. This event is free and pet friendly.
Shop specialty items at Unique L.A.’s Holiday Market this Saturday and Sunday from 11:00am to 6:00pm. Happening at the Penthouse of the California Market Center, admission to the event is $10 at the door.
The Shop the Block bash is back this Saturday and Sunday in the DTLA Arts District. With plenty of cool deals to go around to quench your retail therapy thirst.
Parachute Market is a biannual, conceptual design fair and marketplace that satisfies the conscious collector’s appetite for object art and design. This is a place where you’ll score innovative furniture, decorative objects, and fashion by emerging and established artists, designers and collectors.
Shop from a village of artisans at the Grand Central Market Holiday Marketplace. The market will be filled with kitchen, pantry and table top gift items as well as specialty items from GCM’s famous vendors.
28. Celebrate Repeal Day:
Ryan Wainwright will be pouring classics at Terrine all night long starting at $9—think Daisies, Manhattans, Hot Toddys, and his signature Plymouth Martini. He’ll also offer an Ancient Age Old Fashioned for $6.
The mezzanine lounge of Angel City Brewery will be converted into a speakeasy. Dress in your best 1930’s garb for the soiree where you’ll receive a complimentary drink upon arrival! Admission is free and specialty flights of barrel aged beers, including a holiday beer, will be available for purchase. Just one catch…. a password is required to join the party, follow the brewery on social media for the magic word.
Townhouse celebrates it’s 100th year anniversary on repeal day! Sometime after their opening at noon, the bar will announce Prohibition era prices on all cocktails for one hour.
Bar10 is launching three new holiday shots for Repeal Day. These shots (Sundae Fundae, Eggnog Slingshot and Dulce de Leche) are normally priced at $12 each (or the trio for $30) but this Saturday they are all half off ($6 each) all day.
Sunday December 6th, 2015
29. Home Alone Unauthorized Parody
Liven up your holiday season with this cheeky table-show parody of the iconic Christmas classic Home Alone. Shows start December 3 and runs all month. Be sure to check Goldstar for discount ticket options for select performances.
30. Discounts to LA Zoo Lights
The LA Zoo will once again be transformed into a fantastical wonderland where glowing light animals roam the lands. Check out decked-out animal-themed LED lights, lasers, 3D projections, and spectacular new water, light and music displays. Enjoy holiday treats and goodies, all under the stars. Real reindeers will also be on display down at Reindeer Romp Village and Santa (on select dates) will even make a few stops at the beloved zoo during the holiday. Happening seven days a week! For more information and discount tickets check out Goldstar.
31. Mac & Cheese Smackdown
The inaugural Mac & Cheese Smackdown arrives at the L.A. River Studios on Sunday, December 6, 2015. Some of the best restaurants in the city will offer creative takes on this beloved cheesy classic to hungry guest through two hours of tastings, plus beer pairings.
32. Mythbusters Farewell Tour
Adam and Jamie are on tour! This live show featuring the Emmy-nominated duo from Mythbusters features on-stage experiments, rocking videos, behind-the-scenes stories and tons of audience participation. You’ll have to go all the way to Thousand Oaks to see the closest tour stop near L.A., but it might be worth the drive. Get more information and discount tickets via our friends at Goldstar.
33. LA Kings Holiday Ice At L.A. LIVE
Enjoy outdoor ice skating at L.A. LIVE! The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to L.A. LIVE’s Microsoft Square. The rink will run through December 31, 2015.
34. DTLA First Sundays December
DTLA First Sundays is the ONLY community brunch party in DTLA. This month’s brunch spot is the Justice Urban Tavern.
35. Osso Launches Brunch Menu
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Osso in DTLA is launching a weekend brunch menu served from 11:00am – 2.30pm. Chef Nick Montgomery has put together a menu that steers away from the traditional brunch fare. His incarnation of a fried chicken and biscuit dish is already a hit and the Muddy Maria, a tamarind bloody mary is a unique twist on a brunch time favorite. Now serving Saturdays and Sundays.
36. Holiday Ice Rink In Pershing Square
From November 12 – January 18 Angelenos can skate in the heart of DTLA at Pershing Square. Each skate-session costs $9, and it’s $4 for skate rental.
37. Pay What You Can Day At Craft And Folk Art Museum
Every Sunday it’s pay what you can day at the Craft and Folk Art Museum.
38. Free Day At Museum of Latin American Art
The Museum of Latin American Art has free admission every Sunday!
39. The Phorrito: Pho + Burrito At Komodo
The phorrito is back at both the Venice and Pico-Robertson outlets of Komodo. For $10 you get sliced rib-eye, thai basil, bean sprouts, jalapeno, Sriracha, hoisin sauce and vermicelli noodles wrapped in a burrito.
40. Celestino Ristorante Launches Holiday Mushroom & Truffle Menu
Winter is Truffle Season at Pasadena’s Celestino! The Holiday Mushroom & Truffle Menu is broken up into three categories: Morel Mushrooms, Porcini Mushrooms and Fresh Quercetti Truffles from Italy. See our preview of the veal carpaccio with shaved black truffles here!
41. Holiday Markets:
The Shop for Her Holiday pop-up is free to attend and brings together socially conscious, female founded brands focused on empowering women. Hosted at the Lombardi House join them for afternoon bites, sip on bubbly and shop for products with meaning. RSVP is a must for this event.
Happening at One Santa Fe in the Artist District of DTLA the Conscious Market pop-up if the perfect spot to pick up ethically-crafted clothing, jewelry, accessories, apothecary products, home goods, and more. The Honest Co., Mamma Chia, Go Macro Bars, Cabo Chips, and more will be on hand passing out free bits and sips.
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Have an upcoming event you’d like suggest for listing? Drop us a line at [email protected].
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