Los Angeles is buzzing with exciting events this weekend, from culinary festivals to star-gazing events and cultural celebrations. From July 18 to 20, the city offers a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests.
One of the highlights is the Sake in the Park festival at Gloria Molina Grand Park on Friday. Attendees will enjoy unlimited tastings of over 50 premium Japanese sakes and shōchūs, alongside bites from more than 30 top-rated Los Angeles restaurants. This all-inclusive food and drink festival also features live performances and DJ sets, all while benefiting the Little Tokyo Service Center, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the neighborhood. Tickets for this vibrant evening are priced at $175.
For those looking to groove on the dance floor, Dance DTLA returns to The Music Center’s Jerry Moss Plaza. This free event invites people of all ages to learn some easy-to-follow dance steps. Led by Enrique Cruz of RF Dance Center, attendees will get a chance to dance the night away with Cumbia music, from 7 to 11 p.m.
Star gazing enthusiasts can head to Mount Wilson Observatory for the Los Angeles Astronomical Society’s public star party this Friday. With telescope views of celestial objects like the Hercules Cluster, Andromeda Galaxy, and various nebulae, the event invites visitors to explore the wonders of the universe from sunset until 1 a.m. Attendance is free, but donations are encouraged.
The South Bay Greek Festival is set to take place at St. Katherine’s Greek Orthodox Church in Redondo Beach over the weekend. From Friday to Sunday, participants can indulge in traditional Greek cuisine, including spanakopita and baklava, while enjoying dancing and a lively atmosphere. The entry fee is $5.
On Saturday, the Latin Sounds series at LACMA continues with a performance by the band Sangre Nueva. This free outdoor concert runs from 5 to 7 p.m. and promises a lively musical experience in the beautiful surroundings of Hancock Park.
Another can’t-miss event is the Pasadena Heritage Bridge Party. Taking place atop the historic Colorado Street Bridge, this summer bash features live music, food and drink from local favorites, and vintage car displays, all against a stunning city skyline backdrop. Tickets are available for $39.11, with proceeds supporting heritage preservation in Pasadena.
KCRW Summer Nights returns to Union Station on Saturday, featuring the performance of Brijean, along with DJ sets from KCRW’s Novena Carmel and José Galván. The event is free to the public and runs from 6 to 10 p.m. in the iconic Union Station Ticket Concourse.
The Afro-Latino Culture Fest at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes celebrates Afro-Latino(a)(x) and Caribbean cultures with an array of food vendors, cocktails, and kid-friendly activities. The festival starts at 1 p.m. on Saturday and is free to attend.
For concert lovers, Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles will be hosting a free concert featuring Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band & La Verdad at MacArthur Park. The performance begins at 7 p.m., delivering an evening filled with Latin soul, jazz fusion, and big band music.
This Saturday also marks the Glendale Chalk-A-Doodle Festival, where attendees can engage in creative chalk murals and live music at Glendale Marketplace—a fun event for the entire family.
Additionally, families can enjoy ‘Skate is Love 2k25,’ offering an active day filled with skating and workshops in Long Beach’s California Heights neighborhood. This free event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with mini-lessons available for kids.
On Sunday, Festival Beverly Hills will showcase a diverse array of arts and performances at Beverly Gardens Park. Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Gaby Moreno will headline, alongside performances from Versa-Style Dance Company and the Filharmonic, an a cappella group. This free event runs from noon to 6 p.m.
Sunday Sessions at Grand Park will return this weekend, bringing House DJ sets and plenty of space to dance and picnic at Gloria Molina Grand Park from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. This event is free to attend, encouraging everyone to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Mount Wilson Observatory will also offer its 2025 Concerts in the Dome series this Sunday, honoring the anniversary of the first moon landing with a program featuring astronaut and violinist Sarah Gillis. Tickets for the concerts, which start at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., are priced at $60.
If you’re in Manhattan Beach, don’t miss the Concerts in the Park series on Sunday, featuring ACME Time Machine covering hits from the 50s and 60s. The concert will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. and is free.
For those looking for unique dining experiences, Levain Bakery offers a celebration of National Ice Cream Day on Sunday, July 20, providing a sweet treat to the first 100 guests ordering ice cream, alongside complimentary bucket hats.
Another exciting culinary event includes Vans Warped Tour’s collaboration with the Long Beach Food Scene, featuring band-inspired menu items available from July 21 to August 1, showcasing local eateries.
Additionally, Uncle Paulie’s Deli will host a pop-up with Chicago’s Mr. Beef on July 19-20, where attendees can savor the legendary Italian beef sandwich made famous by ‘The Bear.’
For dog lovers, Angeleno Wine Co. presents ‘Puppies & Pour Decisions’ this Friday where guests can enjoy wine specials and meet adoptable pups, with food available from Tortas Ahogadas El Águila.
In summary, Los Angeles offers a vibrant weekend filled with music, culture, food, and fun activities. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy delicious cuisine, or take in the starry skies, there’s something for everyone this weekend.
image source from:welikela