Los Angeles isn't just a place, it's a vibe. And that vibe extends to its event scene, offering a smorgasbord of experiences for every taste. As the second half of 2024 approaches, here's a peek at the top 10 events that will have you clamoring for tickets (or packing your picnic basket):
The crème de la crème of television descends upon LA for this star-studded ceremony. Glitz, glamor, and red carpet moments galore as Hollywood celebrates the best in TV programming. Don your finest attire (virtually, of course) and tune in to see who takes home the coveted golden statuettes. (Exact date TBA, but typically held mid-September. Check the official Emmy website for details.)
AFI FEST, an annual event held every fall, stands as Los Angeles' longest-running celebration of international cinema. It showcases the year's most buzzworthy films, featuring works by emerging filmmakers alongside global masters. Red carpet premieres, tributes, and special screenings bring the best of world cinema to Hollywood. Get your tickets here.
While technically not in LA, San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) exerts a powerful pull on Angeleno pop culture enthusiasts. Gear up for a superhero invasion as fans of comics, graphic novels, animation, sci-fi, fantasy, and all things geek converge for a weekend of exciting announcements, exclusive merchandise drops, celebrity sightings, and a chance to mingle with fellow fans. Cosplay costumes are highly encouraged! (Usually held in July. For the most accurate dates and ticketing details, please visit the official Comic-Con website.)
Calling all reggaeton and Latin music lovers! Every August, the Baja Beach Fest heats up Rosarito Beach, Mexico, a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles.This annual fiesta brings together chart-topping artists for a weekend of vibrant music, sun-soaked fun, and electric energy. Bask into the warmth and pulsating energy of Latin culture, and let the fiery rhythms ignite your spirit! Check their website for their tickets.
Running from late August to late September, the Los Angeles County Fair is a sprawling celebration of the city's diverse cultures. Featuring carnival rides, thrilling games, livestock displays, and live music, it promises entertainment for all. Food enthusiasts can indulge in traditional fair favorites as well as a variety of multicultural delicacies.
Celebrate Asian American culture in LA with a festival trifecta! Immerse yourself in Japanese traditions at the Nisei Week parade and food booths in Little Tokyo (mid-August). Later in summer, savor Korean food, music, and dance at the Korean American Festival. Finally, September brings the Filipino Festival's vibrant parade, lively music, and delectable cuisine.
Baseball fans, rejoice! Catch America's favorite pastime under the warm California sun by cheering on the legendary Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. The electric atmosphere, the roar of the crowd, and the thrill of live baseball will leave you wanting more. Hot dogs, peanuts, and the iconic Dodger Dog are practically mandatory! (Multiple games throughout the season. Check the Dodgers official website for the schedule and ticketing information.)
Terence Crawford, known for his flawless record, is making a weight class leap to contend with Israil Madrimov in a bout set to decide the WBA and WBO interim super welterweight championships. The fight will take place on August 3rd in Los Angeles, marking Crawford's attempt to win a world title in a fourth weight division. It's expected to be a tough challenge, as Madrimov is known for his power and technical skills.
Get your tickets and conquer your fear of the eerie halloween with friends at the Universal Studios Hollywood. Elaborate haunted houses themed around popular horror films and TV shows lurk around every corner, with creepy characters and special effects designed to send shivers down your spine. The thrilling atmosphere and pulse-pounding scares will leave you with unforgettable nightmares (in the best way possible). Just remember to breathe... kind of. (Usually runs from September to Halloween. The Universal Studios Hollywood website for details.)
Dive into the lively customs of Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) throughout Los Angeles. Witness colorful altars adorned with marigolds and sugar skulls, a beautiful and symbolic representation of honoring deceased loved ones. Traditional music and dance performances fill the air with a celebratory spirit, reminding us that death is a natural part of life's cycle. Community gatherings create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for learning more about this cultural tradition. (Celebrations vary by location. Check local event listings and cultural centers for specific dates and details of events near you.)
Los Angeles buzzes with a dynamic array of events, from art exhibitions and music festivals to neighborhood block parties and cultural celebrations. Stay tuned to local calendars and platforms like Eventbrite or DoLA, embracing LA's spontaneous spirit. Uncover rare treasures and indelible moments around every corner. So, pack your sense of adventure, lace up, and dive into LA's vibrant tapestry of events that never cease!
Explore more of LA’s events on the LA Daily Tribune.
