Monday

08-18-2025 Vol 2056

This Weekend’s Highlights in Los Angeles: August 8-10

As the weekend approaches in Los Angeles, a myriad of exciting events and activities are lined up for locals and visitors alike from August 8th to 10th.

From summer parties to cultural festivals, there are plenty of options to ensure your weekend is filled with enjoyment.

One cannot miss the KCRW Summer Nights at the Wende Museum on Friday evening.

This event marks the first time KCRW Summer Nights will take place at the Wende Museum, offering attendees the chance to groove to the beats of KCRW DJs Chris Douridas and Francesca Harding from 6 to 10 p.m.

Besides the music, guests can explore the museum’s collection of Cold War-era art and artifacts, including the notable exhibition, “Counter/Surveillance: Control, Privacy, Agency.”

Best of all, this event is free to attend.

For families looking for a casual vibe, Beach Movie Nights at Dockweiler offers a free screening of The Garfield Movie at 8 p.m. on Friday.

Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and low-back chairs as seating is first-come, first-served.

At LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, the Summer of Salsa dance party returns on Friday night, featuring the Latin music ensemble Arsenio Rodriguez Project.

This event includes free salsa dance classes from 6 to 7 p.m. and is completely free of charge.

Another must-see is the Ivy Station Night Market, which promotes local vendors and includes carnival games, adoptable dogs, and custom typewritten poetry from Typoetica.

Taking place from 5 to 10 p.m., this vibrant market also boasts DJ-spun tunes and is free to attend.

For a night infused with musical talent, Grand Performances will showcase modern film score composers, with KUSC host Solomon Reynolds leading the way on Friday night.

Saturday features a vibrant Latin Goes Ska! concert.

Both nights are free, commencing at 6 p.m.

For those seeking thrills, Zombie Joe’s Theater Group continues their immersive experience with Summer Slasher 2, which runs its final two nights this Friday and Saturday.

Tickets for this nostalgic trip into a 1990s horror setting are priced at $22.50.

Music fans can catch The Lumineers at the Kia Forum, with tickets available for Friday starting at $61.70.

On Saturday, the Hope Alley market by Homeboy Industries will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering a space for vendors impacted by immigration policies to sell their goods.

This community pop-up event is entirely free to attend.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour plans a special night on August 9, celebrating Pee-wee Herman with a themed tour, look-alike contest, and a screening of “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” for $89 per person.

Saturday will also see Clockshop’s Listening by Moonrise returning to L.A. State Historic Park, where performances by Wadood and The Dude with the Oud will fill the air starting at 5 p.m.

This event is free, but suggested donations of $5 are encouraged, benefiting CLUE’s Detained Immigrant Bond Fund.

The anticipated Nisei Week Japanese Festival kicks off on Saturday in Little Tokyo, featuring cultural exhibits, performances, and a grand parade scheduled for Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m.

Culver City will host Under the Bridge: Groove for Good on Saturday, promoting community wellness through dance and movement.

This free event will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Movies Under the Stars continues its series in Old Pasadena with a showing of “School of Rock” at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, with public seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Sunday has something for everyone, including a Salt Marsh Open House at Cabrillo Beach, inviting guests to explore the wetlands with educators and volunteers.

This unique experience is open to all ages at no cost.

For those seeking entertainment, the Hollywood Jane Revue presents “Rack To The Future: A Burlesque Parody” this Sunday at Crown City Theatre, with tickets available for $20.

On the dining front, Woon in Pasadena is offering a special Bite for Bite Brunch on Sunday, supporting local food initiatives with delicious offerings and live music.

Visit from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for an array of bold flavors, including Milk Tea French Toast and Pork Chop Sandwich.

Dog lovers will want to head to Santa Monica Brew Works on Sunday for Dog Days of Summer, a dog-friendly event featuring treats for both pups and their owners, with proceeds benefiting Wags & Walks dog rescue.

This fun-filled afternoon will take place from noon to 3 p.m.

As well, Hey Sunshine Kitchen in Culver City will host its 2nd Anniversary Party, featuring special discounts, live music, and activities for families.

This celebration kicks off at 11 a.m.

Lastly, Burden of Proof in South Pasadena is hosting a free launch party for Plaid Circus, the world’s first barrel-aged non-alcoholic spirit, where guests can sample cocktails and take home free merchandise on Saturday between 5 and 8 p.m.

As Angelenos prepare for an exciting weekend ahead, each of these events offers an opportunity to connect, enjoy, and engage with the community while experiencing the vibrant culture Los Angeles has to offer.

Whether you choose to dance, enjoy a film, or support local vendors, there’s no shortage of fun activities waiting for you in the City of Angels.

image source from:welikela

Abigail Harper