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 weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).
This weekend includes LA Brew at the Zoo, the ScareLA convention, Aliens vs. Musical, another NHM Summer Garden Party, an avocado beer fest, CicLAvia on the west side, Clueless in Pasadena, and much, much more!
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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]
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[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 August 7th, 2015
1. Brew at the Zoo
Go to the L.A. Zoo after-hours to sample some 50 local and craft breweries, listen to live music, check out pop-up zookeeper talks, and taste delicious food offerings all as part of the Brew at the Zoo on Friday, August 7.
2. Summer Garden Party at The Natural History Museum
Great music, garden-inspired cocktails, hands-on garden and science projects, botanical tours, food trucks, and more at the NHM’s Summer Nights in the Garden. Guest can part take in a butter making class, potting succulents, bundling up some herbs to take home from the NHM garden, go on a botanical tour of the Nature Gardens led by NHM staff even sample smoke flies with NHM Citizen Scientists! Bring a picnic or enjoy the food trucks, just make sure you RSVP for free admission.
3. FIGat7th Downtown Festival
The Plaza Level at FIGat7th in DTLA invites the public for a free night of music with Peanut Butter Wolf, Dam Funk, Mayer Hawthorne (DJ Set) and Mild High Club. Explore the bars and restaurants at Fig during the Taste happy hour starting at 4:00pm! Doors open at 7:00pm for the Plaza Bar and the show starts at 8:00pm.
4. Groundlings Main Show The Red Light District
The Groundlings Theatre has kicked off their next main show in the Red Light District. The performance schedule runs every Friday at 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. through September 26. Tickets are $20.00!
5. Sundance NEXT FEST: Mistress America x Sky Ferriera
Got a craving to go see some fresh indie films straight from Sundance? Well now is your chance. NEXT FEST is a weekend-long celebration of film and music (August 7-9) that will feature the Los Angeles premiere of six select films showcased at the Sundance Film Festival. Each film screening is accompanied by a specially paired musical performance or a filmmaker conversation. Things kick off with a screening of Mistress America and a performance by Sky Ferriera at The Ace in DTLA.
6. The Nike 3-on-3 Tournament
The Nike Basketball 3-on-3 Tournament at L.A. Live is one of the largest hoops tournaments and basketball related fanfests in the world, with an annual participation that exceeds 1,200 teams, 4,500 players and 25,000 spectators. Whether you choose to compete or just watch, this three-day hoops extravaganza taking place from August 7-9 is sure to be quite the spectacle.
7. TreePeople “Once Upon A Canyon Night” Presents Dial M For Murder
TreePeople and the Actors Conservatory Ensemble are excited to announce the return of “Once Upon A Canyon Night” now in its 13th season, running on select weekends now through September. This week a staged reading of Dial M For Murder will take place. The summer entertainment series is nestled in the woods and set under the stars in TreePeople’s beautiful S. Mark Taper Foundation Amphitheatre at its park headquarters at the intersection of Coldwater Canyon and Mulholland Drive. Get more information and discount tickets (while supplies last) via Goldstar.
8. Bring Your Own Dance Moves
Get your boogie on at this FREE weekly summer dance party hosted by the Music Center in Downtown Los Angeles.
9. Hershey Felder as Irving Berlin At The Geffen Playhouse
Having broken Geffen Playhouse season production box office records, Hershey Felder as Irving Berlin returns to the Gil Cates Theater at the Geffen Playhouse for two weeks only, August 4-16, 2015. In the show, Felder brings to life the remarkable story of Irving Berlin, long thought of as America’s composer, who enjoyed 232 top-10 hits and 25 number-one songs. Featuring the composer’s most popular and enduring songs from “Alexander’s Ragtime Band,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” to “White Christmas,” and the score of “Annie Get Your Gun,” Felder’s signature creation of character and musical performance will make this evening an unforgettable journey. Tickets run $50-$70 but Goldstar has a limited amount for 50% off.
10. First Friday Freebie Night At The Pasadena Museum Of California Art
Take advantage of First Fridays at The Pasadena Museum of California Art. Starting at noon and ending at 5pm.
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11. Summertime Cinema Returns To Westfield Culver City and Westfield Fashion Square
Westfield Culver City and Westfield Fashion Square in Sherman Oaks are bringing back Summertime Cinema, a summertime family fun movie screening series. Every Friday, starting July 10th through August 7th, beloved movies will be screened outdoors at both centers allowing attendees to relive the magic of the big screen. The movies are free to the public and viewers will enjoy various special goodies at the event.
12. Grand Performances
Grand Performances has summer-long concert series that brings Angelenos together with an eclectic mix of musical performances at a unique setting in Downtown L.A.
13. The 13th Annual Los Angeles Improv Comedy Festival
This week long event of comedy mixes established and newbies together for some LOL’s. The festival runs till the 9th of this month.
14. Barnsdall Park’s Friday Night Wine Tasting
All summer long Barnsdall Art Park has a weekly fundraiser to benefit Barnsdall Art Park Foundation programs and projects. Perched on a hill with a gorgeous panoramic view of Hollywood, guests will enjoy fine wine and art in the gardens of Frank Lloyd Wright’s newly restored architectural gem, Hollyhock House. Silver Lake Wine will curate fine selections of boutique, small production, artisanal wines for park-goers as well as local gourmet cheese shop, Say Cheese.
15. First Friday at Bixby Knolls
An artwalk, 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! 630pm-930pm this Friday.
16. Alien vs. Musical
Straight from the Hollywood Fringe Fest after winning several awards, including “Best World Premiere Production” and “Outstanding Songwriting” comes a special encore production of Alien vs. Musical. Set in an imaginary world where characters from Broadway’s biggest hits like Grease, The Sound of Music and Wicked live out their day-to-day lives until one day a strange egg amongst them, suddenly hatch and the famous creature from Alien is born. Comedy and horrific deaths soon ensue all in musical form taking the audience on a journey of sci fi puppetry and effects mash ups. Tickets are usually $20 but our friends at Goldstar have them for just $10.
Saturday August 8th, 2015
17. L.A. Weekly’s First Ever Burgers & Beer Festival
The powerful food-and-booze union of burgers and beers is undeniable. This Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, L.A. Weekly will kick off their first ever Burgers & Beer Festival featuring all you can eat samples of L.A.’s favorite burgers like Belcampo, Pie n’ Burger and Vaka Burger, limited samples from some of the best breweries will also be available and live music curated by Spaceland Presents will get the party started.
18. Sounds In Focus With Dwight Yoakam + X
KCRW’s signature FREE summer series takes over the Annenberg Space For Photography with performances by Dwight Yoakam and X. You must RSVP but that doesn’t hold your spot so arrive early. Doors open at 5:00pm with KCRW DJ’s spinning tunes.
19. 7th Annual Unique L.A. Summer Market
The Unique L.A. Summer Market will host more than 350 vendors, folks will be able to score made-in-America clothes, accessories, art, jewelry, home decor, and much more. Pre-sale tickets are available, but you can also purchase them at the door BUT keep in mind it’s cash only for tickets at the door. Your ticket will included free refreshments, snacks, DIY projects and more.
20. Eat|See|Hear Screens Clueless
Eat|See|Hear features live pre-show music plus a selection of L.A.’s best food trucks, all centered around screenings of iconic films. This week ESH is screening the cult classic Clueless at Centennial Square in front of the Pasadena City Hall. Get more information and discount tickets (while supplies last) via Goldstar.
21. Topshop & Topman Endless Summer Series
Top Shop is hosting a concert in Montecillo De Leo Politi Park located on Stadium Way at Recreation Lodge Drive. Headliner Empress Of will perform and guest can can expect plenty of local food vendors, games, giveaways, and more. All happening from 3:00pm to 7:00pm. RSVP here!
22. Hollywood Beer and Music Festival
It’s the Hollywood Beer and Music Festival! Come to the intersection of Hollywood and Vine to taste samples of more than 50 craft beers produced by more than 25 local and regional breweries. Oh, and there will also be an assortment of music (AC/DC cover band), live DJ’s, food trucks, and an after-party at Bardot (if you purchase a VIP ticket). )
23. ScareLA
Wait, so there’s an entire convention dedicated to learning about the craft of making all-things scary? It’s called ScareLA and it’s coming to the Pasadena Convention Center on August 8-9.
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24. Free Ice Cream!
Bay Area’s CREAM is coming to Northridge with a big ice cream sandwich giveaway from 2:00pm to midnight. Get the scoop (pun intended) via Eater LA.
25. The Dollface Dames Burlesque Show at Magicopolis
L.A. based burlesque troupe The Dollface Dames take over the Magicopolis stage for a night of tease, balloon popping, belly dance and even clogging? Lets just say they do a lot in their 80 minute show. But the fun doesn’t end there the Magicopolis bartenders double as magicians! Grab half price tickets and spend your money at the bar!
26. Hey There Muscles FREE Work Out Session With The Hulk!
The Santa Monica Pier’s hit summer wellness program, Hey There Muscles, is closing out with the Hulk himself, Lou Ferrigno, his daughter Shanna and their team of fitness gurus whipping folk into shape for free! The event will place at 9:00a.m. on the West end of the Pier. The class offers a total body workout with motivational pep talks from some of LA’s best fitness and nutrition instructors.
27. Street Food Cinema: Heathers
Good movies, amazing venues, up and coming local bands and tasty food trucks. What more could you ask for? This weekend Street Food Cinema screens Heathers at Exposition Park. Movie starts at 8:30pm. Get more information and discount tickets (while supplies last) via Goldstar.
28. Low End Theory Festival
The Low End Theory Festival will take place at the Shrine Expo Hall & Grounds with music by Flying Lotus, Earl Sweatshirt, Thundercat, Nosaj Thing, Daedelus, Jonwayne, Teebs, Ras G, Samiyam, House Shoes, Alix Perez & Eprom, Milo, Mndsgn, Dibia$e, Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals, Astronautica, Sister Crayon, Cazal Organism, Elusive, Mono/Poly, Open Mike Eagle, Free the Robots, Great Dane and Low End Theory Residents: Daddy Kev, Nobody, The Gaslamp Killer, D-Styles and Nocando. This is an all ages show.
29. LF Just Opened A Permanent Outlet Store On Melrose Avenue
Attention all LF fans out there! The LF outlet is now open on Melrose Avenue next to American Apparel. Everything is under $45 like EVERYTHING including Jeffery Campbell shoes, vintage denim and so much more. Racked has all the info here.
30. SuperHero — Princess Academy: A Mini-Musical for Little Ones
Need to entertain the little guys and gals this weekend? Check out this one-hour mini-musical performed by the folks at the Creating Arts Company. The show includes singing, dancing, and plenty of audience interaction to keep the little ones engaged throughout. Get more information and discount tickets (while supplies last) via Goldstar.
31. LA’s First Saks Off 5th Outlet Opens
Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th will open at a prime corner space at the Beverly Connection. This Thursday, at 9:30am. Arrive at 8:30am to take advantage of the early bird festivities like $50 gift cards being handed out every 10 minutes with one lucky winner who will walk away with a $500 shopping spree. The party will continue throughout the weekend and Who What Wear will be hosting a special preview party open to the public from 5pm to 9pm the night before, where guests can shop, enjoy refreshments, meet industry experts, and be styled head to two by Sak’s style experts!
32. Grab A Partner And Compete In The Amazing Santa Monica Race
Part sightseeing, part scavenger hunt and 100% team work! This race will have you and your partner exploring Santa Monica Beach and the Venice Boardwalk searching for clues to solve the ultimate puzzle. Grab your discounted tickets via Goldstar.
33. Evening Concerts at Santa Anita Race Track With Cal Phil
Set against the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains, Santa Anita Park is a great setting for an outdoor concert series. The California Philharmonic hosts a series of summer concerts here and this weekend’s theme is Lights Camera Action! Come early for pre-concert activities with the family or make it a date night. With a state-of-the-art stage, jumbo video screens and the masterful music of maestro Victor Vener and the Cal Phil, an evening at Santa Anita Park is a perfect way to spend your summer. Find more information and discount tickets via Goldstar.
Sunday, August 9th 2015
34. Avocado Festival
We Californian’s LOVE avocados so when Angel City Brewery debuted a delicious, guacamole-inspired beer back in 2012 the Avocado Ale became an instant hit, so much that they dedicated it’s own festival to celebrate its return every year. The third annual Avocado Festival will feature Avocado Ale food pairings, brewer-led tours with a focus on the Avocado Ale brewing process, a avocado bazaar presented by Raven Gypsies, avocado themed photo booth and plenty more avocado amusements, including avocado corn hole and an avocado hunt. The event runs from 12:00pm to 8:00pm, and will benefit Food Forward, a local non-profit whose mission is to rescue fresh, local produce that would otherwise go to waste, and provide it to people in need.
35. CicLAVia Culver City
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CicLAvia (one of the the city’s largest ongoing urban walking / cycling events) heads to the Westside for the first time since 2013 with a six-mile route from Culver City to Venice. Explore neighborhoods, try local eateries, and walk or bike the streets of L.A. like you rarely ever can, all starting at 9:00am on Sunday, August 9.
36. Wine Tasting & Vegan Food Pairing At The Springs
The Springs in Downtown Los Angeles will be holding their second monthly Wine Tasting with Vegan Food Pairing. This month, The Springs’ sommeliers have chosen Winemaker Michael Schmelzer of Monte Bernardi to head the event. Tickets can be purchased for $20 at TheSpringsLA.com or by emailing [email protected].
37. The Watts Rebellion: 50 Years Later
This ongoing series of timely, thought-provoking events presented by the Hammer address current social and political issues. Sunday, on the 50th anniversary of the 1965 Watts rebellion, join historians as they discuss the past and present of race relations in the United States. The Hammer Forum is moderated by Ian Masters, journalist, author, screenwriter, documentary filmmaker, and radio host. The program is free to the public with tickets available at a first come first serve basis.
38. Kids Fashion Fair
Presented by Fashion Mamas LA, the Kids Fashion Fair is a bi-annual shopping event for stylish tots, with tons of pint-sized options to shop for by local and national indie vendors. The event takes place at The Grove from 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Tickets are $5 per adult.
39. Gamble House Brings Back its Popular ‘Upstairs Downstairs’ Tour
For a limited time this summer the Gamble House will once again open its servants’ quarters for exclusive 90-minute “Upstairs Downstairs” tours. Visitors to the Gamble House from July 30 through August 16 will be able to compare the living quarters of the served with those “in service.” New information recently emerged about the Gamble family and their servants allowing the curators to share more of the personal history of those who lived and worked at 4 Westmoreland Place in Pasadena. Learn just how the Gambles lived in, maintained and appreciated their beautiful Greene & Greene house.
40. To Live and Dine in LA: A Live Mixtape
Join hip-hop artist Rakaa Iriscience (Dilated Peoples), L.A. chef Roy Choi, and USC professor Josh Kun for a one-of-a-kind live mixtape where the theme is food history and food justice. Music, video, storytelling and more, make up this unique event plus an all-star lineup of musicians, chefs, entertainment executives, authors and other Los Angeles creatives will take the audience on a DJ-driven, multidimensional journey through the menu collection of the Los Angeles Public Library and shine a light on the issues of food insecurity currently facing the city. Get more information and discount tickets via Goldstar.
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