This weekend, the east side of Los Angeles is buzzing with activity, primarily as Echo Park Rising brings a vibrant atmosphere, showcasing record store fairs, gallery exhibitions, live bands, and lively after-parties.
In addition to the festival highlights, there are several exciting events happening around the area that locals and visitors should consider attending.
One standout event is the Spinning Sunset vinyl fair, taking place at The Pink Dot’s parking lot on Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. This fair promises to be a great spot for music lovers and vinyl collectors alike.
Additionally, Friday night features the Punx Not Dead art and music event at Hunt Vintage Gallery, running from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. This event is set to kick off the weekend with an artistic flair.
For theater enthusiasts, the Pantages Theatre is presenting the national tour of *Some Like It Hot*, running through Sunday, August 17. This musical promises an entertaining experience filled with dance, lavish costumes, and fun antics, making it the perfect summer show. Tickets start at $45.
Meanwhile, the annual Nisei Week Japanese Festival in Little Tokyo is ongoing, celebrating its 83rd year. The festival features a rich array of cultural experiences, including taiko drumming, ondo dancing, traditional food, and various exhibits. Entry is free, and this weekend includes the much-anticipated Crazy Talented Asians showcase at East West Players, where tickets are priced at $45.
For those seeking a night of nostalgia, the Spin Doctors are scheduled to perform at Venice West on Sunday, August 17, at 8 p.m. The band’s 1991 album *Pocket Full of Kryptonite* is filled with hits that fans have adored for decades. Tickets for this memorable concert are available for $55.
On Friday night, don’t miss the Silverlake Scream Show’s Summer Shriek at El Cid, beginning at 8 p.m. This event combines a Halloween costume party with a horror film festival, offering audience members the chance to screen horror shorts and engage with local vendors. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
For those with an interest in printing, the International Printing Museum in Carson will host a Letterpress Surplus Sale & Wayzgoose on Saturday, August 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event celebrates a tradition that dates back to the 1500s and includes live printing demonstrations, tours, and a range of activities for stationery enthusiasts. Admission ranges from $10 to $12.
Also on Saturday, young and old alike can enjoy the PAST + FUTURE = PRESENT event at The Broad, taking place from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. This concert will feature various indigenous musicians, all part of the exhibit Jeffrey Gibson: the space in which to place me. Tickets for this vibrant event are available for $25 and include admission to the exhibit.
On Sunday morning, the Venice Cars & Coffee event will take place for the first time at Little Lunch from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. This gathering promises an engaging community atmosphere where car enthusiasts can gather, showcasing unique vehicles and enjoying camaraderie. Entry is free.
If you’re an admirer of succulents and cacti, don’t miss the 39th Annual Inter-City Cactus and Succulent Show and Sale at the Los Angeles County Arboretum, running all weekend from August 15-17, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This event will feature over 1,000 different cacti and succulents for purchase. Admission to the Arboretum is $18.
Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in CicLAvia: Culver City meets Venice, happening on Sunday, August 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nearly seven miles of Venice Boulevard will be open for this event, inviting participants to bike, walk, or scoot along the route and explore the scenic beauty of LA in a new way, all for free.
As part of this event, LAist will set up a hub in Mar Vista where attendees can meet the team and collect some fun swag.
For fans of theater, a special viewing of National Theatre Live’s *Hamlet*, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, will be screened at the UCLA James Bridges Theater on Sunday, August 17, at 3 p.m. This promised performance showcases Cumberbatch in a classic role, with tickets starting at $20.
Food and drink lovers will find several enticing options this weekend as well. AJA Vineyards in Santa Monica will host a Gnocchi & Wine Night on Sunday, August 17, at 4 p.m. This event will be led by private chef and female founder Chef Joanna and includes a gnocchi cooking class, charcuterie, and two glasses of wine for $125.
On Friday, August 15, Local Kitchens in Studio City will hold a burger pop-up featuring Chef Alvin Cailan. Guests can enjoy a surprise limited-edition burger in a lively atmosphere filled with DJ jams and cookbook giveaways.
Additionally, on Saturday, August 16, 8one8 Brewing in Canoga Park will celebrate its 10th anniversary with the 818 Legends Party. This family-friendly event will have live music, a beer trailer, and delicious food from Osborne Pizza Kitchen, making it a fun outing for attendees. The event is free to enter.
Finally, to welcome the Italian mid-August holiday of Ferragosto, Superfine Playa will feature an aperitivo menu with $5 drinks and snacks all day on Friday, making it an excellent opportunity to enjoy a relaxed dining experience.
So whether you’re looking for insight into Dungeons & Dragons, finding places to develop 35mm film, or simply enjoying the plethora of events this weekend, the east side of LA has something for everyone.
image source from：laist
