As the weekend approaches, Los Angeles gears up for a variety of activities and events from July 11 to 13. Whether you’re interested in art, music, food, or cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Kicking off the weekend is the VHS Dreams exhibition at Beyond the Streets (BTS). This unique showcase immerses visitors in the vibrant world of Ghana’s mobile cinema, highlighting hand-painted movie posters that offer a West African perspective on iconic films from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s. The opening reception takes place on Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. and runs through August 23.
Just a short distance away, Frogtown First Second Fridays returns with a festive twist. The “It’s Carnival Time” theme promises art exhibits, music, and various activities at venues adjacent to the L.A. River Path. This event is free and welcomes attendees from 5 to 10 p.m.
For theater enthusiasts, the SheLA Summer Theater Festival is a must-see at the Zephyr Theater, featuring original works by gender-marginalized playwrights and composers. Running from July 8 to 14, tickets for performances start at $32.
Also on Friday, the Summer of Salsa event at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes will bring Latin music and dance to the forefront with Gabrielito y La Verdad performing alongside DJ Robby. Free salsa dance classes will be available from 6 to 7 p.m., making this event an excellent opportunity to dance the night away.
The Music Center’s Dance DTLA continues with its free evening dance parties, where participants can learn various dance styles. This Friday’s event aims to get everyone moving from 7 to 11 p.m.
In celebration of Bugs Bunny’s 85th anniversary, Warner Bros. hosts a special event at the Hollywood Bowl featuring classic Looney Tunes shorts projected on large screens while the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra plays the original scores live. The festivities will take place on Friday and Saturday.
The Getty offers its popular Off the 405 series with Madi Diaz performing this Saturday. Entrance is free, but pre-registration is required for timed entry, and there is a $10 parking fee after 6 p.m.
Moving to Santa Monica, the Summer Open House at Bergamot Station invites visitors to explore new exhibition openings, meet artists, and enjoy live music from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, all at no cost.
The Latin Sounds series at LACMA continues this Saturday with Brazilian singer Silvia Nicolatto performing outdoors in Hancock Park from 5 to 7 p.m., providing a cultural treat for music lovers.
Film enthusiasts can enjoy Cinema Botanica: Flow at the California Botanic Garden, featuring pre-movie activities and gourmet popcorn, while the Echo Park Lotus Festival, celebrating South Korean culture, offers a weekend full of music, activities, and dragon boat races. Even better, admission is free.
For those looking for a movie night, Old Pasadena’s Movies Under the Stars series will be screening Grease this Saturday at 8:30 p.m. Make sure to arrive early for good seating, or opt for the VIP experience.
Another option for outdoor cinema is Cinema Under the Stars at Broxton Plaza, featuring The LEGO Movie: 2. This community event offers pre-show entertainment and crafts before the movie begins at sundown.
In MacArthur Park, the Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles will offer free concerts this Saturday, showcasing Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band and La Verdad at 7 p.m., providing an evening filled with entertainment.
For comedy fans, the Belly Laughs Comedy and Food Festival rolls in this weekend, featuring over 30 top comedians and a selection of Asian cuisine from renowned local vendors. Tickets are available starting at $129.
On Sunday, attend the Sazon Latin Food Market at Common Space Brewery in lieu of exploring diverse flavors from various vendors in a lively atmosphere from 2 to 7 p.m., all for free.
The ¡Jotería! event at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes on Sunday celebrates the LGBTQIA+ Latinx community with an array of performances and activities, making it a vibrant day out.
Manhattan Beach also joins in on the weekend fun with free concerts in the park, featuring a Tom Petty tribute on Sunday evening.
Additionally, Benny Boy Brewing is celebrating Bastille Day with a French Jazz Concert and food vendors on Sunday, making it a great time to experience French culture.
With these exciting events lined up, Los Angeles offers numerous opportunities for visitors and residents alike to enjoy creative experiences and celebrate diverse cultures this weekend.
image source from：welikela
