As summer approaches in Los Angeles, a new season is upon us—FYC, or “for your consideration”—as entertainment brands ramp up their marketing efforts to capture the attention of awards voters.
This trend has turned into a lively game of one-upmanship, with brands showcasing their “cool factor” in hopes of garnering support for their shows.
While some may view FYC events as mere marketing gimmicks, they often provide unique experiences and access to some of L.A.’s most interesting venues.
With numerous events taking place throughout the city, there’s something for everyone, whether it’s a live read of “Only Murders in the Building” at the Wallis, a pickleball event for “Hacks” featuring tennis pro Andy Murray, or Amazon’s special live performance of “Put The Christ Back in Christmas” in Century City.
Indie enthusiasts can look forward to the Hollywood Fringe, which kicks off previews this week, showcasing the vibrant independent theater scene in L.A.
Additionally, art lovers have just a few more days to catch the Robert Irwin exhibition at Pace Gallery, an opportunity to experience important contemporary artwork.
Thanks to the new Metro airport station, transportation to these events will be hassle-free, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the rich cultural fabric of Los Angeles.
For those looking to explore more of what the city has to offer, LAist.com is a great resource for finding local happenings, including updates about the historic Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes and a preview of the summer movie lineup.
In the events category, several exciting activities are lined up this weekend and beyond:
**Venice Pride Block Party**
Date: Saturday, June 7, 4 to 11 p.m.
Location: 99 Windward Ave., Venice
Cost: Free
The annual Venice Pride Block Party is set against the picturesque backdrop of the beach, welcoming individuals of all ages to celebrate and express their pride.
The gathering features an impressive lineup, including DJ Victor Rodriguez & Friends, community booths, food trucks, and local vendors, ensuring a festive atmosphere.
After the block party, attendees can keep the spirit alive by heading to Baja Cantina for the annual Gaywatch dance party.
**Hugh Jackman at the Hollywood Bowl**
Date: Saturday, June 7, 8 p.m.
Location: Hollywood Bowl, 2301 Highland Ave., Hollywood
Cost: From $68
Hugh Jackman, known for his dynamic performances, will grace the Hollywood Bowl stage to officially kick off summer in L.A.
As the star of “The Greatest Showman,” Jackman will entertain audiences with songs from his favorite shows and will be supported by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra alongside special guests.
**Pride In Bloom**
Date: Sunday, June 8, 12 to 5 p.m.
Location: Natural History Museum Commons, 900 Exposition Blvd., Expo Park
Cost: Free
Celebrating the theme of self-expression in nature, Pride In Bloom invites visitors to discover the vibrant array of flora and fauna that embody the spirit of Pride.
Co-created with the artists of Drag Arts Lab, Inc., this unique event features a resource fair, a rainbow scavenger hunt, a pronoun pin-making station, and opportunities to engage with Museum Educators about the inspiring stories behind the museum’s collections.
**Gatsby Redux**
Weekends through Saturday, June 14
Location: Greystone Mansion, 905 Loma Visa Dr., Beverly Hills
Cost: $30
To mark the centennial anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” Mixed eMotion Theatrix will present a site-specific theater and dance performance, Gatsby Redux, amidst the stunning gardens of Greystone Mansion.
Audience members are encouraged to don their 1920s best as they move alongside the dancers, immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this celebration.
**Carnival of Cats: Open House**
Date: Saturday, June 7, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: Tail Town Cat Cafe, 1780 E Washington Blvd., Pasadena
Cost: Free With RSVP
The Tail Town Cat Cafe in Pasadena will host its second annual Carnival of Cats, a delightful open house event for cat lovers.
Gather the family and spend a day with 30 to 40 free-roaming rescue cats, as you might find your next furry friend or simply enjoy the cat-filled atmosphere.
**Pacific Symphony’s ‘A Grand Finale: Verdi’s Mighty Requiem’**
Through Sunday, June 8
Location: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa
Cost: From $30
Opera aficionados should not miss the majestic performance of Verdi’s Messa da Requiem in Costa Mesa, conducted by Carl St. Clair in his final performance as Pacific Symphony’s music director.
Featuring soprano Raquel González, the shows promise a rich musical experience, complemented by insightful pre-performance talks with KUSC host Alan Chapman.
**California Watermelon Festival 2025**
Date: June 7-8
Location: Hansen Dam, 11480 Foothill Blvd., Lakeview Terrace
Cost: $20
Enjoy a refreshing celebration of all things watermelon at the annual California Watermelon Festival, featuring unique culinary delights like deep-fried watermelon and watermelon sushi.
Attendees can expect activities for every age group, including extreme sports booths, a watermelon-eating contest, and plenty of opportunities for sampling delectable watermelon-inspired treats.
**Hoodlin Skate Park Takeover**
Date: Saturday, June 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: El Sereno Skatepark, 4721 Klamath Place, El Sereno
Cost: Free
Street artists, skate competitions, and DJ sets will fill the El Sereno Skatepark as Hoodlin characters take over for a day of vibrant energy and creativity.
The festivities will continue at Gilbert Lindsey Rec Center in South Central on Saturday, June 14.
**Purple Rain Screening + Prince Tribute Dance Party**
Date: Saturday, June 7, 6 p.m.
Location: The Montalbán Theatre, 1615 Vine St., Hollywood
Cost: Dance Party is Free, Screening From $30
In honor of the late Prince’s birthday, attendees are invited to a special tribute night that includes a screening of “Purple Rain” followed by a dance party on the rooftop.
Dressing up as Prince earns you complimentary drinks, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the evening.
For fans of classic cinema, “Casablanca” will also be screening at the Montalbán Theatre that night.
**Barnsdall Fridays**
Fridays through Sept. 26
Location: Barnsdall Art Park, 4800 Hollywood Blvd., Los Feliz
Cost: $45
Wine lovers can join the popular Barnsdall Fridays wine tasting event, running through the end of September at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House.
The event features a stunning outdoor setting, a selection of wines from Silverlake Wine, food trucks, and live DJ sets. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket to enjoy the summer ambiance.
**Food Forward’s Zest Fest**
Date: Saturday, June 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: California State University Northridge’s Orange Grove, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge
Cost: Free, Registration Required
Zest Fest invites volunteers to pack and distribute citrus to people in need at Cal State Northridge’s historic orange grove.
By participating, you’ll be helping Food Forward reach an ambitious goal of rescuing 500 million pounds of food while fostering community spirit.
**National Doughnut Day**
Date: Friday, June 6, Multiple Locations
Cost: Varies
Various doughnut shops and bakeries, including Krispy Kreme, Dunkin Donuts, and Sidecar Doughnuts, will celebrate National Doughnut Day with free treats and other special promotions through the region.
**Bar Avoja**
Now Open Thursday-Sunday
Location: 1545 Wilcox Ave., Hollywood
Cost: Varies
L.A. chef Evan Funke has launched a new bar concept called Bar Avoja, found at Mother Wolf in Hollywood.
This intimate space offers a modern twist on Roman street food along with specialized cocktails.
As the city embraces an exciting lineup of events and unique experiences, locals and visitors alike have the chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Los Angeles this season.
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