Thursday

07-17-2025 Vol 2024

Explore Los Angeles: Events and Highlights Amidst Change

As Los Angeles navigates through a tense climate marked by immigration sweeps and protests, the lifting of downtown curfew brings a renewed sense of normalcy.

This change invites residents and visitors alike to engage once again with the vibrant community and support the creative individuals that shape L.A.’s unique culture.

For more insights and to keep abreast of local happenings, head to LAist.com. There, you can discover details on Jon Yao Kato of Kato—the newly crowned James Beard Award winner—along with tracking Shohei Otani as he makes his much-anticipated debut as a pitcher for the Dodgers.

Also, don’t miss out on next week’s Cookbook Live featuring Nicole Rucker of Fat & Flour, a favorite among the L.A. culinary scene.

**Events to Check Out:**

**Through Saturday, July 12**
**Parade**
Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., Downtown L.A.
COST: FROM $40.25
Parade, the recent Tony winner for Best Musical Revival, remains a significant theatrical experience with its powerful storytelling.

The show shares the true account of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory owner in Georgia who was wrongfully accused of murder in 1913.

The touring production at the Ahmanson Theatre concludes the 2024-25 season.

Despite its heavy themes, Parade captivates audiences with compelling music and emotional depth, particularly through the evolving relationship between Leo and his wife, Lucille.

Be sure to arrive early to explore the newly launched audio tour, “Walk With Me,” allowing you to discover the architecture and historical significance of the Music Center spaces.

**Saturday, June 21, 12 to 8 p.m.**
**Venice Summer Fest**
12257 Venice Blvd., Mar Vista
COST: FREE
Venice Summer Fest offers a delightful day of free activities ranging from yoga to vintage shopping and live music under the sun.

This family-friendly event promises a fun-filled experience for Westsiders looking to enjoy the local culture.

**Through Saturday, January 24, 2026**
**OCMA 2025 California Biennial: ‘Desperate, Scared, But Social’**
Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa
COST: FREE
The OCMA Biennial opens this weekend, spotlighting California’s youth through art, music, and performance.

With contributions from notable artists like Miranda July and Joey Terrill, the biennial celebrates local culture while including curated works by teenagers involved in OCMA’s Young Curators group.

Don’t miss the block party featuring the Linda Lindas, a local punk band, on June 21.

**Saturday, June 21, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.**
**L.A. Opera Costume Shop Sale**
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Downtown L.A.
COST: FREE, OR EARLY BIRD ACCESS FOR $100
For costume enthusiasts, L.A. Opera’s annual sale allows patrons to browse through costumes from celebrated productions such as Don Giovanni and The Marriage of Figaro.

Imagine trying on an ornate corseted dress and channeling your inner opera star.

**June 20-21**
**Pixies**
Hollywood Palladium, 6215 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood
COST: FROM $75.50
Take a nostalgic trip back to the 90s with iconic indie rockers, the Pixies, as they perform at the Palladium during their U.S. tour.

The two-night event features a special set on Friday inspired by Bossanova/Trompe le Monde, while Saturday will dive into the band’s classic hits.

Both nights will include a performance by Kurt Vile + the Imposters as a special guest.

**June 21-22**
**Little Women Ballet**
Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena
COST: FROM $42
Ballet enthusiasts and fans of Louisa May Alcott will enjoy a two-act ballet rendition of Little Women at Pasadena Playhouse.

Featuring dancers ranging from ages 10 to 75, the production creatively interprets the beloved story.

**June 20-21, 7:30 p.m.**
**Glow In the Dark Groundlings**
Groundlings, 7307 Melrose Ave., Melrose
COST: $32
For a night of laughter, check out the Groundlings for a glow-in-the-dark comedy show.

Expect classic sketches and characters enhanced by luminescent elements in this fun and interactive experience.

**Sunday, June 22, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.**
**Underground DVD Scavenger Hunt: Discover SIN3056843
Vidéothèque, 4102 N Figueroa St., Downtown LA.
COST: FREE
Join a one-of-a-kind scavenger hunt in search of hidden DVDs across Los Angeles.

Inspired by director Dustan J. Hlady’s Amazon Prime series SIN3056843, which was cancelled, participants will receive clues starting at the Vidéothèque movie rental store.

Unlocking all five discs offers a unique reward for scavenger hunters.

**Outdoor Pick**
**Friday, June 20, 6 to 9 p.m.**
**Pride Sunset Swim**
Annenberg Community Beach House, 415 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica
COST: $10
Celebrate pride at the Pride Sunset Swim event at the Annenberg Beach House.

This special LGBTQ+ gathering invites everyone to enjoy the beautifully designed pool while making new connections as Santa Monica prepares for Saturday’s Pride celebrations.

**Viewing Pick**
**Saturday, June 21, 3 p.m.**
**Matinees on the Mountain: Sci-Fi Silent Shorts**
Mt. Wilson Observatory, 100 Mt. Wilson Circle Road, Mt. Wilson
COST: $20
For film buffs, the Mt. Wilson Observatory presents a unique opportunity to experience silent science fiction films.

Silent film historian Joe Rinaudo will feature a selection of classics from his personal collection, accompanied by live organ music from Ed Torres.

**Dine & Drink Deals**
**Sunday, June 22, 1 to 7 p.m.**
**Dine Out Pasadena**
Union Street between Raymond and Fair Oaks, Old Pasadena
COST: FREE
Support local eateries while celebrating the resilience of Pasadena’s culinary scene in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire.

Experience delicious menu options and outdoor seating as you explore the vibrant offering of restaurants in the area.

**Saturday, June 21, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.**
**Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure**
Glendale Civic Auditorium, 1401 North Verdugo Road, Glendale
COST: FROM $69.24
The tenth annual Garagiste Festival highlights artisan winemakers and celebrates Los Angeles’s storied wine history.

With over 100 wines to taste from 10 local vintners, this festival is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.

From enjoying thoughtful productions to discovering music and food, this year’s events provide ample opportunity to connect and celebrate the rich culture within Los Angeles.

image source from:laist

Charlotte Hayes