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Circa’s Toast to a Spectacular New Year’s Eve

Making plans for New Year’s Eve? We’ve rounded up LA’s most spectacular celebrations, from elegant chef-driven dinners, to stylish entertainment, and epic events, many not far from Circa. Experience the glamour of the Roaring Twenties at Biltmore’s LA Noir NYE, make merry from 34 floors above at La Lo La Rooftop, or spend a musical New Year’s Eve with Pink Martini at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Then count down to 2024 at Grand Park’s NYELA and thrill to the park’s signature 3D light show projected onto LA City Hall. So pop the cork, grab your noise makers, and toast the New Year!

Mastro's Ocean Club New Years Eve at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Mastro’s Ocean Club DTLA 1200 S. Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Mastro’s elegant Downtown L.A. location, conveniently located on the ground floor of Circa, will be open on New Year’s Eve from 4pm to midnight, serving a full dinner menu including their famous American and Japanese Wagyu, delectable seafood and sushi selections, soups, salads, potatoes served a variety of ways, and their award-winning wine and cocktail program.

Le Petit Paris New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Le Petit Paris 418 S Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

A true French brasserie bringing dishes from the South of France to DTLA’s Historic Core, Le Petit Paris is offering two seatings on New Year’s Eve. The first seating, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm, includes a prix fixe menu. The second seating, starting at 8:30pm, features a prix fixe menu, cabaret performances, party favors, dance party with DJ, live music, balloon drop, and countdown.

LA Cha Cha Chá New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Cha Cha Chá 812 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The sister location of Terraza Cha Cha Chá in Mexico City, LA Cha Cha Chá is throwing a (well-heated) rooftop fiesta with a live DJ, tarot card readings, and passed appetizers such as tacos dorados, tamales, and tres leches cake bites. Each ticket price includes one complimentary drink—a margarita or sparkling wine. Ring in the New Year while enjoying the gorgeous views of DTLA.

Redbird restaurant New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

NYE Dinner at Redbird 114 E Second St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with dinner at Redbird, located in the historic rectory of the former Vibiana cathedral. Chef Neal Fraser and his team will be serving a three-course prix fixe dinner with optional wine pairing by Wine Director Matt Fosket. Menu options include Iced Oysters, Artichoke Soup, Potato Churro, Pumpkin Curry, Raviolo, Liberty Farms Duck, and Beef Tenderloin. Cap off your meal with a choice of Pineapple Upside Down or Cream Puff with milk chocolate cremeux, and mint ice cream.

Pink Martini New Years Eve at Walt Disney Concert Hall near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

New Year’s Eve with Pink Martini Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Pink Martini, featuring China Forbes, returns for another quintessentially eclectic New Year’s program that mixes Brazilian samba, party sounds of 1930s Cuban dance music, and a dash of Parisian café cool. There’s no classier way to ring in 2024!

LA Noir NYE at The Biltmore New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Noir NYE at The Biltmore 506 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

A century of celebration continues at the Biltmore. Step back into the 1920s, when this elegant DTLA hotel was built, and kick off 2024 with Biltmore LA Noir New Year’s Eve. The party includes over 40 performers, swing music, dancers, photo ops, and themed cocktails. You can even take a tour of one of the hotel’s century-old speakeasy tunnels. Period-inspired or formal attire is encouraged, imagination is celebrated.

La Lo La Rooftop New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

La Lo La Rooftop AC Hotel 1260 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Celebrate New Year’s Eve from 34 floors above at La Lo La Rooftop, an ethereal, sophisticated oasis located at the recently debuted AC Hotel Downtown LA. The expansive wraparound rooftop, which spans almost 4,000 square feet, provides an intimate setting for a night of revelry. Guests are invited to enjoy specialty cocktails, Spanish-style tapas, and a live DJ, along with complimentary party favors and a midnight champagne toast.

Level 8 New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Level 8 Moxy and AC Hotels 1254 S Figuera St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Level up your New Year at Level 8, a first of its kind multidimensional showcase of culinary exploration, extravagant entertainment, and immersive discovery. Enjoy an unforgettable night at eight venues, featuring live music & entertainment, special guest DJs, luchadores, and more. Tickets include 4 hour open bar & hors d’oeuvres, midnight countdown, and champagne toast.

EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

Be part of Hollywood’s biggest New Year’s EVE celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood’s EVE event on Dec. 31, where you can party until 2AM. Fill your day with heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions, and then keep the thrills going into the night. Have fun and celebrate with multiple party areas featuring music, dancing, photo ops, drinks available for purchase, and a midnight countdown celebration with fireworks.

Prohibition at Union Station New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Prohibition at Union Station 800 N Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

For its 10th year, Prohibition NYE will return to the iconic Union Station to bring back the excitement and glamour of the Roaring Twenties. Experience theatrical burlesque, live jazz ensembles, a headlining DJ set by renowned duo Chromeo, and a premium open bar featuring champagne and specialty cocktails. Don’t miss Prohibition NYE’s signature 60 foot, midnight ball-drop celebration!

Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA Countdown New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA Countdown to 2024 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The West Coast’s largest free New Year’s Eve event is back! Revelers will welcome 2024 with the park’s signature 3D countdown art show projected onto L.A.’s iconic City Hall, and La Doña and La Verdad Band will be topping off this highly-anticipated New Year’s Eve celebration. Bring your appetite for delicious foods from 30 of LA’s favorite food trucks. Alcohol is not permitted and will not be sold at Gloria Molina Grand Park.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Gloria Molina Grand Park

Photo #2: Mastro’s Ocean Club

Photo #3: Le Petit Paris

Photo #4: LA Cha Cha Chá

Photo #5: Redbird

Photo #6: LA Phil

Photo #7: The Biltmore

Photo #8: La Lo La Rooftop

Photo #9: Level 8

Photo #10: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #11: Prohibition at Union Station

Photo #12: Gloria Molina Grand Park

Circa’s Haunted Harvest of Halloween Fun

It’s spooky season, and LA is all aghast with frightful festivities, creepy concerts, and ghoulish adventures. We’ve rounded up a haunted harvest of Halloween fun, guaranteed to put a tingle in your spine and a chill in your bones. Immerse yourself in a multimedia horror show, experience a haunted hayride, or witness a blood-curdling vampire circus. You can also dive into the traditions of Día de los Muertos at Gloria Molina Grand Park, which features 19 altars created by professional artists and local community organizations. Check websites for tickets and other event details.

Circa Halloween Costume Party

Circa residents are invited to join us for an “Out of This World” Halloween costume party on October 27 from 7:30PM to 10:30PM in the 8th floor lounge. We’ll have a DJ, earthly delights + bites, specialty cocktails, futuristic desserts, a themed photo booth and more!

Danny Elfman Nightmare Before Christmas at the Hollywood Bowl Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Tim Burton‘s The Nightmare Before Christmas Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90068

Tim Burton‘s The Nightmare Before Christmas will be performed in concert, starring Danny Elfman, Catherine O’Hara, Halsey, Fred Armisen, Riki Lindhome, and Ken Page. with a live orchestra featuring conductor John Mauceri and violinist Sandy Cameron. Come early for Halloween Fun with a costume contest hosted by Greg Proops (“Who’s Line is it Anyway?”) and explore the Hollywood Bowl transformed into Halloween Town for an incredible trick-or-treat adventure for all ages.

Grand Park Downtown Día de los Muertos Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Honoring the people, places and ideas that merit adoration and commemoration, Gloria Molina Grand Park’s 12th annual Downtown Día de los Muertos welcomes parkgoers to pay reverence to 19 altars created by professional artists and local community organizations. Visitors can also contribute to the annual community altar – the 20th altar – which will honor the victims of gun violence in Monterey Park and those who perished in Maui’s wildfires.

The Bride of Frankenstein Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Bride of Frankenstein The Theatre at Ace Hotel 929 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Camp, humor and horror collide in one of the greatest sequels ever! This year, LA Opera’s hugely popular annual celebration of horror and live music, at the breathtaking Theatre at Ace Hotel, presents film director James Whale’s chilling The Bride of Frankenstein, with one of the most iconic “wedding” scenes in cinematic history. As this 1935 horror classic plays out larger than life on the silver screen, the magnificent musicians of the LA Opera Orchestra, conducted by Jenny Wong, perform Franz Waxman’s groundbreaking original soundtrack score live.

Boney Island at NHM Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Boney Island Natural History Museum 900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Just in time for Halloween, the Natural History Museum will transform its Nature Gardens into a hauntingly whimsical interactive light-up experience for all ages. Featuring familiar sights for long-time Boney Island fans – skeletons performing rope tricks, levitating through hoops, shadow puppetry and more – NHM will put its own spin on the event with artistic performances, real fossils, live animal presentations, trick-or-treating, and other ghoulishly glowing installations. Boney Island was created by The Simpsons producer, Rick Polizzi, for his family more than 20 years ago. A play on Brooklyn’s iconic Coney Island, it grew from a front yard display to a huge affair in Griffith Park with a cult-like following of Halloween lovers of all ages.

Nights of the Jack Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Nights of the Jack King Gillette Ranch 26800 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas, CA 91302

Thirty miles northwest of Hollywood, tucked in the Santa Monica Mountains, there’s a strange and shadowy wonderland that everyone’s been whispering about. This season, Nights of the Jack is back and brighter than ever. You’ll discover Jack o’ lanterns from every mystical sphere and a spook-tacular illuminated light show under the autumn sky. It’s not just an illusion, it’s an experience. Brace yourself with a hot cider or seasonal cocktail from the Spookeasy bar, and fortify yourself with some festive fall treats. Follow the 3/4 mile trail at King Gillette Ranch, glimmering at every turn with blazing gourds around every corner. Be sure to have your cameras ready and enjoy!

LA Haunted Hayride Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride Griffith Park 730 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Experience the world-famous Los Angeles Haunted Hayride – the ultimate halloween event. The Hayride leads to a thrilling adventure of horrors afflicting the town of Midnight Falls, with the Town Square at the epicenter of the festivities. While guests walk around between attractions or hang out to soak in the atmosFEAR, various townsfolk from the Midnight Falls community roam the space interacting with guests and attending to their local business. The Spirit of Halloween comes to life surrounding helpless victims brave enough to board The Hayride.

Carved Descanso Gardens Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Carved Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Come discover a mesmerizing pumpkin wonderland, featuring a new route, and even more pumpkin fun! Discover returning favorites and fresh delights You’ll be amazed by luminous jack-o’-lanterns, hand-carved giant pumpkins, and an expanded “Rhizome” installation by Tom and Lien Dekyvere. Enjoy frightfully good food and drinks, including cocktails, beer & wine, Frito Pie, BBQ pork sandwiches, jumbo pretzels, and Day of the Dead Churros. Rain or shine – Carved shines on.

Strange Science at The Huntington Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Strange Science at The Huntington 1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Join The Huntington for an evening of chills and thrills! Witness spirited performances and special displays of rarely seen objects from the vaults. Hear spine-tingling stories, learn weird scholarly facts, and experience twisted fantasies on the dance floor. Enjoy various libation lounges serving festive boozy and alcohol-free beverages. Food and snacks are available for purchase.

Halloween Horror Nights Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Halloween Horror Nights Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608

Legend has it you should never go alone to Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights, Southern California’s scariest Halloween event. Summon your scream squad and you might survive. Enter eight haunted houses inspired by the biggest names in horror. The Terror Tram is back and this time the bugs are taking over. Tour Guide Larry Larva and his bug-headed exterminators are out to get rid of human pests once and for all. You’ll be dropping like flies. Whether you want to scream one night or multiple nights, or get the blood-red carpet treatment on an R.I.P. Tour, there are many nightmares to choose from.

The Vampire Circus Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Vampire Circus The Montalbán 615 Vine St. Hollywood, CA 90028

Step into The Vampire Circus, a mesmerizing theatrical experience that fuses artistry, technology, and twisted acrobatics. Be captivated by a world that pushes the boundaries of human performance. Witness phenomenal acrobatics performed by international artists with multidisciplinary skills in theater, dance, and gymnastics. Prepare to be amazed and astounded as they take you on an emotional roller-coaster filled with fear, joy, laughter, and wonder. This 90-minute show guarantees an engaging and enjoyable evening of live entertainment for all audiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #4: Gloria Molina Grand Park

Photo #5: LA Opera

Photo #6: Natural History Museum

Photo #7: Nights of the Jack

Photo #8: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #9: Descanso Gardens

Photo #10: The Huntington

Photo #11: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #12: The Vampire Circus

10 Cool Ways to Beat the Heat in LA

The heat is on, with no end in sight. Temperatures may be soaring, but if you resist the temptation to hunker down in your air conditioned cocoon, you’ll find a multitude of refreshing opportunities to survive the summer sizzle. From immersive exhibitions and twilight garden strolls to rafting on the LA River, and even an indoor ice skating rink, we’ve rounded up 10 cool ways to beat the heat in LA!

Circa elliptical pool & cabanas at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Happiness begins at home! Luxuriate in the resort-like ambiance of Circa’s two-acre rooftop park and amenity collection. Our 75-foot lap pool provides a revitalizing respite from sultry summer weather. Enjoy a dip in the elliptical pool and take a relaxing break in our private cabanas.

LA Underwater - exhibition at NHM near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Underwater Natural History Museum 900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Before it was the vibrant city we know, Los Angeles was underwater for over 90 million years. Dive into NHM’s newest multimedia-rich, immersive exhibition L.A. Underwater and discover L.A.’s prehistoric past through the stories of nearly 40 fossils that are uncovering the secrets of our submerged prehistory. Many of these fossils were found by everyday Angelenos, from construction workers unearthing over 2,000 fish fossils while working on the Metro line to Museum neighbors discovering a whale skull while digging an irrigation ditch in Lincoln Heights. These locally-discovered fossils are helping scientists understand the topography of the city’s past and present.

The Huntington Botanical Gardens near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Twilight Garden Strolls at The Huntington 1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Get ready for relaxation and exploration as you wander the gardens with friends and family after hours. The Red Car coffee shop will be open until 5:30PM and the 1919 Cafe will be open serving a selection of grilled items, house-made soups, hand-crafted sandwiches, salads, and grab-and-go fare from 5:30 to 7:30PM. Food and drink are not permitted while strolling, but you may bring bottled water and a blanket to sit on the lawn. Most gardens will be open for your enjoyment. However, the library, art galleries, The Rose Hills Conservatory, and the Helen and Peter Bing Children’s Garden will be closed.

LA Kings Valley Ice Center indoor ice skating near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Kings Valley Ice Center 8750 Van Nuys Blvd. Panorama City, CA 91402

The Los Angeles Kings Valley Ice Center, home of the 2012 Stanley Cup Champions, is a two ice surface facility located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley. The rink offers everything in relation to the ice including hockey, ice skating, curling, broomball, public sessions, sticktime, learn to skate classes, group lessons, private lessons, filming, and special events.

Lucky Strike LA Live bowling near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Lucky Strike LA Live 800 W Olympic Blvd. Ste. 250, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Nestled just steps away from the Crypto.com Arena, Lucky Strike LA Live is the perfect place to roll a few frames, shoot some pool, and enjoy delicious cocktails and tasty bites. Featuring 18 premium lanes, tons of screens to catch all the big games, and plenty of tasty cuisine to fuel your fun, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. Check out the luxury suite that offers a private setting with four lanes, two billiards tables, and a private bar.

Keith Haring at The Broad art museum near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Keith Haring: Art is for Everybody The Broad 221 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Broad presents the first-ever museum exhibition in Los Angeles of Keith Haring’s expansive body of work and features over 120 artworks and archival materials. Known for his use of vibrant color, energetic line work, and iconic characters, like the barking dog and the radiant baby, Haring’s work continues to dissolve barriers between art and life, and spread joy, all while being rooted in the creative spirit and mission of his subway drawings and renowned public murals.

Grand Park near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Gloria Molina Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

With its majestic views extending from the Music Center to City Hall, Grand Park provides Angelenos a place where they can come together to celebrate, reflect, and and play. Throughout Grand Park, open spaces are available for casual sitting, leisurely strolling, and dining al fresco. Grand Park has four distinct areas featuring amenities ranging from a restored historic Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain with a new wade-able membrane pool, a small intimate performance lawn, a community terrace planted with drought-tolerant specimen plants, and a grand event lawn.

McConnells's Fine Ice Cream near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

McConnell’s Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

For 70 years, McConnell’s has been making dense and pure-flavored ice creams, with smooth, consistent texture and a rich, velvety mouth feel – all made from scratch with a few, simple ingredients. McConnell’s mission is to produce the finest ice creams in the world, in the most responsible and sustainable way possible. In the process, they aim to enrich and enliven the communities in which they operate, and leave the world just a little bit “sweeter” than they found it.

Playa Vista Farmers' Market - Farm Habit near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

South Park Farmers’ Market 11th & Grand, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Downtown LA has just booked another farmer’s market, this time in the South Park neighborhood. The South Park Farmers’ Market takes place each Saturday, from 9AM to 2PM on Grand Ave and 11th St. A diverse bunch of farmers, foodies, and artisans will be accompanied by live music. Market offerings include locally grown fruit, vegetables, fresh fish, French pastries, Southern gumbo, tamales, and free-range meat from a local rancher who practices regenerative agriculture. So come out, stock up for the week, and enjoy the community.

LA River Expeditions

Start your urban adventure! LA River Expeditions is the original boating organization on the Los Angeles River. The founders 2008 expedition down the river’s 51 miles (from the San Fernando Valley to the Pacific Ocean) launched their involvement with the LA River revitalization as a nonprofit organization, committed to improving the quality of life in our community. This groundbreaking activism was a key factor in changing Federal environmental policy by winning Clean Water Act protections in 2010 for the Los Angeles River and waterways across the country. LA River enthusiasts can book kayak tours in both Los Angeles River recreational zones: Sepulveda Basin Recreation Zone and Elysian Valley Recreation Zone.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Circa LA

Photo #2: Circa LA

Photo #3: Natural History Museum

Photo #4: The Huntington

Photo #5: LA Kings Valley Ice Center

Photo #6: Lucky Strike LA Live

Photo #7: The Broad

Photo #8: Gloria Molina Grand Park

Photo #9: McConnell’s

Photo #10: Playa Vista Farmers’ Market

Photo #11: LA River Expeditions

Ring in the New Year: Where to Celebrate for Auld Lang Syne

Making plans for New Year’s Eve? LA is ringing in the New Year with dazzling celebrations – from elegant chef-driven dinners, to stylish entertainment and epic events, many not far from Circa. Experience the excitement and glamour of the Roaring Twenties at The Biltmore’s LA Noir NYE, or spend New Year’s Eve with the Grammy-winning Roots crew at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Then count down to 2023 at Grand Park’s NYELA and thrill to the park’s signature 3D light show projected onto LA City Hall. Pop the cork, grab your noise makers, and get ready for Auld Lang Syne!

Redbird restaurant New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

NYE Dinner at Redbird 114 E Second St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with dinner at Redbird in Downtown Los Angeles. Chef Neal Fraser and his team will be serving a three-course prix fixe dinner with optional wine pairing by Wine Director Matt Fosket. Menu options include Iced Oysters, Abalone Chawanmushi, Wild Mushroom Bolognese, Maine Lobster, Rack of Lamb, and Beef Tenderloin. Cap off your meal with a choice of Milk Chocolate Custard or Cheddar Cheesecake.

Caldo Verde restaurant New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

NYE at Caldo Verde Proper Hotel DTLA 1100 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90015

Celebrate the New Year with a luxurious multi-course prix fixe menu in the design-driven Caldo Verde. The evening will feature seasonal dishes, boutique wines and festive cocktails. Highlights of the second seating menu include Blinis & Caviar and Gougères to begin, Blood Oranges & Flora Bella Arugula, Diver Scallops, Duck Breast, Westholme Wagyu Sirloin, and Champagne Parfait. Live jazz and a midnight toast will top off a memorable evening.

Le Petit Paris restaurant New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Le Petit Paris 418 S Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Le Petit Paris is offering two seatings on New Year’s Eve, priced at $95 and $199 per person, respectively. Courses include Lobster Bisque, choice of Branzino Matelote or Filet Mignon, and Millefeuille or Chocolate Chou for dessert. The second seating (8:30pm – 10:30pm) includes a live singer, DJ, dance party, countdown, balloon drop and party favors.

Otium restaurant New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Otium 222 S Hope St. Los Angeles 90012

This New Year’s Eve, Chef Timothy Hollingsworth is serving a multi-course Black & White Truffle Dinner at Otium, the sleek and modern space adjacent to The Broad museum. NYE menu highlights include Butter Poached Maine Lobster, Black Truffle Pain Perdu with Bacon Jam & Creamed Spinach Puree, and Russet Potato Gnocchi with Veal Tongue & White Truffle. Vegan and gluten-free menus are available. Pricing is $275 per guest for the 4pm to 8:30pm seating, and $300 for the 9:30-10:30pm seating, which includes a champagne toast.

Grand Park’s NYELA Countdown to 2023 New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park’s NYELA Countdown to 2023 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Grand Park’s NYELA returns with Grammy®-nominated Cuban Funk artist Cimafunk and renowned DJ Marques Wyatt topping off the highly-anticipated New Year’s Eve celebration! Powered by The Music Center’s Grand Park team, the West Coast’s largest free New Year’s Eve event will also continue Grand Park’s historic 10th anniversary celebrations when the park’s signature 3D countdown light show projected onto L.A.’s iconic City Hall leads revelers into 2023. Attendees are welcome to enjoy a light bite and dessert for purchase from L.A.’s favorite gourmet food trucks. Alcohol is not permitted and will not be sold at Grand Park.

Walt Disney Concert Hall New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

NYE at Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Spend New Year’s Eve with the legendary Roots crew. The Grammy-winning Philadelphia hip-hop group, and house band for The Tonight Show, rings in 2023 with a pair of shows at Walt Disney Concert Hall, bringing their much-heralded, much-loved live show to downtown Los Angeles. Say goodbye to 2022 and welcome the New Year in style.

LA Noir NYE at The Biltmore New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA Noir NYE at The Biltmore 506 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

LA Noir NYE 2023 is a lavish speakeasy event in the legendary icon, The Biltmore Hotel. This beautiful hotel will begin its centennial celebrations with a whirlwind of live music, dancing, entertainment with over 40 performers, photo ops, and more. Stylized cocktails and plenty of champagne will flow from specialty bars as you celebrate in style. Don your dapper outfit, and embrace your fringe, pearls and feathers. Period inspired attire or black tie is encouraged, imagination is celebrated.

Prohibition at Union Station New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Prohibition at Union Station 800 N Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

For its 9th year, Prohibition NYE will return to the iconic Union Station to bring back the excitement and glamour of the Roaring Twenties. Experience theatrical burlesque, live jazz ensembles, a headlining DJ set by renowned DJ duo Neil Frances, and a premium open bar featuring champagne and specialty cocktails. Don’t miss Prohibition NYE’s signature 60 foot, midnight ball-drop celebration!

Dita Von Teese NYE Gala Show New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Dita Von Teese NYE Gala Show The Orpheum Theatre 842 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90014

Spend a sparkly New Year’s Eve at the Orpheum as contemporary pin-up icon Dita Von Teese hosts this year-end burlesque showcase. Dubbed the Glamonatrix Gala, this local New Year’s Eve tradition puts a present-day spin on the 1940s variety show, with a mix of comedy, music and dance.

EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood New Years Eve celebration near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608

Be part of LA’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood’s EVE event on Dec. 31, where you can party until 2AM. Fill your day with heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions, and then keep the thrills going into the night. Have fun and celebrate with multiple party areas featuring music, dancing, photo ops, drinks available for purchase and a midnight countdown celebration with fireworks.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Grand Park

Photo #2: Redbird

Photo #3: Caldo Verde

Photo #4: Le Petit Paris

Photo #5: Otium

Photo #6: Grand Park

Photo #7: LA Phil

Photo #8: The Biltmore

Photo #9: Prohibition at Union Station

Photo #10: Timeout Los Angeles / Courtesy Albert Sanchez

Photo #11: Universal Studios Hollywood

Get Spooked: LA’s Best Halloween Celebrations

Halloween is always a thrilling time of year, with scary events and creepy outdoor festivities unfolding under the night sky. Relish a ghoulish theatrical cocktail soirée, feed your fears on a haunted hayride, and discover the traditions of Día de los Muertos as you stroll through Grand Park. Start your spirited adventure by getting yourself tricked out for a treat. Party City carries a great selection of Halloween make up kits, and Hollywood Toys & Costumes, the go-to for movie studios, tourists and locals for over 50 years, offers an extensive inventory of costumes, masks, jewelry, make up, and novelties. For residents of Circa, there’s no end to the fiendish fun when you get spooked this Halloween!

Circa Monster Mash

Oct 28 Join us for a Monster Mash Bash on the 8th Floor from 7PM – 10PM, featuring music, bites, candy, cocktails, and a costume contest. Categories include Scariest, Best Dressed and Most Creative.

House of Spirits: Vaughan Hall Halloween event near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

House of Spirits: Vaughan Hall Casa Vertigo 1828 Oak St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Oct 15 – 31 House of Spirits: Vaughan Hall Is an immersive theatrical cocktail soirée, where adults do Halloween in a haunted venue. Located in the heart of downtown LA, near LA Live and the LA Convention Center, Casa Vertigo is a historic landmark that was originally completed in 1926. Boasting over 88,000 square feet with four floors and three mezzanines, guests will be transported into Lady Medb’s haunting tale through the legend of Vaughan Hall. As you freely roam the house, you’ll find tarot readings, strange roaming specters, secret games, and so much more.

Grand Park's Downtown Día de los Muertos Halloween event near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Oct 22 – Nov 2 Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos honors people, places and ideas that merit reverence and commemoration. Día de los Muertos is a community-oriented space inviting park-goers to contribute to the community altar, ideated by artist and educator Consuelo Flores, and to stroll through the park viewing numerous altars made by professional artists and local organizations. Opening day programs include poetry reading by Women Who Submit and Luis Rodriguez, musical performance by Las Catrinas Mariachi Band, dance performance by Grupo Folklorico Huitzillin with Teatro Aztlan, sugar skull decorating with East Los Sweets, and colorful chalk art with KDaze Art.

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride Halloween event in Griffith Park in Los Angeles

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride Griffith Park 730 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Experience the world-famous Los Angeles Haunted Hayride – Los Angeles’ ultimate halloween event. The Hayride leads to a thrilling adventure of horrors afflicting the town of Midnight Falls. The Town Square of Midnight Falls is the epicenter of the festivities. While guests walk around between attractions or hang out to soak in the atmosFEAR, various townsfolk from the Midnight Falls community roam the space interacting with guests and attending to their local business. The Spirit of Halloween comes to life surrounding helpless victims brave enough to board The Hayride.

Carved Descanso Gardens Halloween event in Descanso Gardens, La Cañada Flintridge, CA

Carved Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens is aglow with festive pumpkins this fall. For three weeks in October, hundreds of carved pumpkins line the Camellia Forest. This year’s event is bigger and better than before, with all kinds of new activities. Along with the pumpkins, the ever-popular pumpkin house, hay maze, and holiday-themed food and beverages return. Guests can also enjoy UV “black light” experiences, artists sculpting pumpkins, and a special Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) installation at the Amphitheater.

LA Opera Frankenstein with Live Orchestra Halloween event near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Frankenstein with Live Orchestra The Theatre at Ace Hotel 929 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90015

Oct 28 & 29 LA Opera is back for their hugely popular annual Halloween mash-up of film and opera at the Theatre at Ace Hotel. This time you’ll see the Boris Karloff shocker Frankenstein on the big screen, complete with mad scientist, bumbling henchman, and mob of torch-bearing villagers. This 1931 masterpiece of horror was originally released without a musical score, which inspired composer Michael Shapiro to fill in the void by creating an original new soundtrack. As the classic film plays on the big screen, he’ll conduct his gorgeous and atmospheric score, performed live by the LA Opera Orchestra, making this the ultimate audience experience for a truly iconic film.

Nights of the Jack Halloween event in Calabasas, CA

Nights of the Jack King Gillette Ranch 26800 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas, CA 91302

Thirty miles northwest of Hollywood, tucked in the Santa Monica Mountains, there’s a strange and shadowy wonderland that everyone’s been whispering about. This season, Nights of the Jack is back and brighter than ever. You’ll discover Jack o’ lanterns from every mystical sphere and a spooktacular illuminated light show under the autumn sky. It’s not just an illusion, it’s an experience. Brace yourself with a hot cider or seasonal cocktail from the Spookeasy bar, and fortify yourself with some festive fall treats. Follow the 2/3 mile trail at King Gillette Ranch, glimmering at every turn with blazing gourds around every corner. Be sure to have your cameras ready and enjoy!

Halloween Horror Nights Halloween event at Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles

Halloween Horror Nights Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608

Summon your scream squad to Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights with 8 haunted houses, the Terror Tram, scare zones, a live show, and exhilarating attractions. Enter haunted houses inspired by the biggest names in fear. You’re never quite sure if your spine is tingling with dread or sheer excitement. Whether you’re a superfan, here for the snacks or selfies, scared of everything, or skeptical of everyone, remember, never go alone.

Haunted Little Tokyo Halloween event near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Haunted Little Tokyo Brunswig Square 360 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Oct 29 Just in time for spooky season,Haunted Little Tokyo is back. This year, the “Block Party” will be held at their favorite “secret” location in Little Tokyo. The event will include all the favorites from previous block parties including DJs, drinks, food, and a costume contest. The secret location will be shared upon check-in at Brunswig Square. Free admission with advance RSVP.

Boo at the Zoo Halloween event at the Los Angeles Zoo

Boo at the Zoo LA Zoo 5333 Zoo Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

The Halloween spirit is in full swing for 31 frightfully fun days at the L.A. Zoo, where guests can enjoy spooktacular sights daily. Weekends are even sweeter, with treats like open-air live shows, animal pumpkin feedings, themed photo ops, education stations, and much more. On the last two weekends of the month (October 22/23 and 29/30), enjoy trick or treating stations featuring candies courtesy of their proud partner, Mars. Costumes are encouraged!

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #2: Circa Monster Mash

Photo #3: House of Spirits: Vaughan Hall

Photo #4: Grand Park

Photo #5: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #6: Carved Descanso Gardens

Photo #7: LA Opera

Photo #8: Nights of the Jack

Photo #9: Halloween Horror Nights

Photo #10: Haunted Little Tokyo

Photo #11: LA Zoo

Have Yourself a Spooktacular Halloween

Halloween is creeping near. So what are you going to do this year? Residents of Circa have everything to fear – from fiendish festivals to ghoulish ghost tours – welcome to your nightmare. If you’re stumped for costume ideas, why not try your hand at creative face painting. Party City carries a great selection of make up kits. Ready to go full on? Hollywood Toys & Costumes, the go-to for movie studios, tourists and locals for over 50 years, offers an extensive inventory of costumes, masks, jewelry, make up, and novelties. So now that you’re all tricked out, it’s time for a treat!

Hey Circa residents! Join us for the Freak Show in the 8th Floor Clubhouse. Wear your best costume for our costume contest with prizes. Enjoy little bites, libations, and live music. Friday October 29th from 7PM – 10PM.

Olvera Street Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Dia de los Muertos Olvera Street Los Angeles, CA 90012

For over 35 years, the merchants on Olvera Street have celebrated Dia de los Muertos. The event has evolved to incorporate the pre-Columbian, Aztec, Mayan and Catholic rituals surrounding death and a celebration of life. Dia de los Muertos at Olvera Street is the only event of its kind in Los Angeles – a nine day festival, with a nightly procession, community altars on display, and entertainment.

Grand Park Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park Dia de Los Muertos 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Grand Park pays tribute to the cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), with a free 12-day public art installation from October 22 through November 2. Presented in partnership with Self Help Graphics & Art, the ninth annual Día de los Muertos invites visitors to stroll through the park to view 20 altars made by professional artists and local community organizations, including East Los Angeles Women’s Center, Community Power Collective and Eastside LEADS, among others.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Halloween Organ, Film & Music: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This Halloween, organist Clark Wilson performs a haunting score for John S. Robertson’s 1920 silent film classic Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, starring John Barrymore. Film critic Leonard Maltin has described Wilson as a “master of silent film and showman of the first order” for his organ accompaniments of silent films.

Haunted Little Tokyo Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Haunted Little Tokyo Brunswig Square 360 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Just in time for spooky season, the Little Tokyo Ghost Club is transforming the community for the 5th annual Haunted Little Tokyo, a fun-filled Halloween celebration with three frightfully fun events that are perfect for ghosts and ghouls of all ages. The festivities culminate with the Haunted Little Tokyo Block Party, held at a secret outdoor location. The event will include all the favorites from previous block parties including DJs, drinks, food, and a costume contest.

Spooky Tea at the Wayfarer DTLA Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Spooky Tea at the Wayfarer DTLA 813 Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Drink up witches! Get in the Halloween spirit at The Wayfarer DTLA’s first annual Spooky Tea. Inside the basement of the Wayfarer lies Lilly Rose, an eclectic bar and lounge with interior design straight out of Alice in Wonderland. This October, Spooky Tea is hosted every Thursday to Sunday, with a set menu full of seasonal treats like salted butter caramel oolong tea and pumpkin bread tea sandwiches. Costumes are welcome.

Theatre at Ace Hotel Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Get Out Theatre at Ace Hotel 929 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90015

This Halloween, see the groundbreaking horror film Get Out like you’ve never heard it before. Composer Michael Abels conducts his disconcerting “gospel horror” original score, performed live by the LA Opera Orchestra and the amazing DC6 Singers. According to Modern Vinyl, it’s a very compelling score with loads of atmospheric dread coupled with the constant feeling of claustrophobia. LA Opera has safety protocols in place.

The Nightmare Before Christmas Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

The Nightmare Before Christmas Banc of California Stadium 3939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037

Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas live-to-film concert experience features Danny Elfman singing the songs of Jack Skellington, plus special guests Billie Eilish, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Ken Page, and Paul Ruebens. The event includes on-site trick-or-treating and a pre-show costume contest.

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride 4730 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride is back at Griffith Park. And did we mention that Griffith Park is widely regarded as one of the most haunted places in LA? Haunted Hayride has transformed the park grounds into Midnight Falls, an eerie and mysterious fictitious village set in 1985, where time stands still and it is always Halloween. Within the foothills of Midnight Falls, the Haunted Hayride leads to a thrilling adventure of horrors afflicting the town, including the Town Square, Midnight Mortuary, and Dead End Diner.

Halloween Horror Nights Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Halloween Horror Nights Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608

Halloween Horror Nights is back with a vengeance at Universal Studios Hollywood. You’ll want to bring plenty of friends with you to share the screams and watch your back as you all make your way through terrifying mazes, face nightmarish creatures in sinister scare zones, lose yourselves in outrageous live entertainment, and escape to some of the park’s most exhilarating attractions. Just as in horror films, where the first to wander off meets a terrible fate, there’s one thing to remember at Halloween Horror Nights: Never Go Alone.

Strange Science The Huntington Library 1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Enter a dark Victorian landscape and explore peculiar pastimes and creepy characters through live theatrical performances, electrifying presentations, and special displays of rarely seen objects from The Hungtonton’s vaults. LA Opera performs highlights from Stephen Sondheim’s macabre musical, Sweeney Todd. Spine-tingling tales and poems are brought to life by the Guild of St. George in the Edgar Allan Poe Theatre. Thrill to Steam, Dreams, & Screams: The ‘Dreadful’ Collections, featuring unusual Victorian-era objects, books, and prints from the Library Vaults. Dine (if you dare) in the Blood and Velvet Lounge and be mesmerized by a magical performance by CirqueSanity.

Carved Descanso Gardens Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Carved Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens is aglow with festive pumpkins this fall. For three weeks in October, hundreds of carved pumpkins will line a 1-mile walk through the Camellia Forest and Oak Grove. Along with pumpkins, there are exciting new oversized sculptures made of sticks and other natural materials. The popular Pumpkin House, a hay maze, and themed food and beverage will all help to create a fun harvest festival ambiance.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Descanso Gardens

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Olvera Street

Photo #4: Grand Park

Photo #5: LA Phil

Photo #6: Haunted Little Tokyo

Photo #7: Wayfarer DTLA

Photo #8: Theatre at Ace Hotel

Photo #9: Banc of California Stadium

Photo #10: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #11: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #12: The Huntington Library

Photo #13: Descanso Gardens

Curated Picnics & Picture Perfect Parks

We could all use a breath of fresh air these days, and what could be more rejuvenating than a picnic. Sharing a meal al fresco with family and friends is a great way to slow down, relax, and commune with nature. And food just seems to taste better when enjoyed outdoors! If you’re celebrating a special occasion or planning a romantic soirée, consider booking a curated picnic. A professional picnic company will create a custom experience, including location, menu, decor, set up and pack down, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy. Or just grab a pretty picnic basket or insulated backpack, fill it with your favorite goodies, and head out to a local DTLA park. We’ve rounded up some great resources near Circa for you, and all the picnic people in your life.

Hollywood Picnics

Hollywood Picnics is an event company specializing in tailored picnic experiences, Hollywood style. Born of an adventurous heart and a need to offer something different and authentic, they offer a dining experience by creating romantic, moody picnics that will make you feel like you are sitting on a rooftop in Europe or in Central Park. They tailor picnics for any event and have a catalog of locations with views and peace. Through their Hollywood style set ups, they aspire to immerse you in a tranquil and inspiring space where you get the chance to relax, connect, and enjoy the moment with your loved ones. Book your picnic HERE

Party Picnic LA picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Picnic Party LA

Picnic Party LA creates personally curated pop-up picnics for life’s celebrations. Pick the package that best fits your experience and select from their add-ons to take your picnic to the next level. Choose your location, whether at home, by the beach or in the city, and they’ll set up your experience and make sure it’s ready upon arrival. They also check to see if permits are necessary in order to host an event at a particular location. All you do is show up and they do the rest so you can soak in the experience. Picnic Party staff return afterwards to pack and clean at the end of your picnic. Book your perfect picnic HERE

The Picnic Collective

The Picnic Collective specializes in styled, customized picnics for a luxury outdoor social experience. They take care of the set-up and pack down, so all you have to do is arrive with your guests for a care-free, memorable experience. The Picnic Collective rekindles the magical tradition of beautiful handmade picnics as you savor the ceremony of delicious food from a traditional wicker basket, shared in great company in California’s beautiful natural settings. From a romantic dinner for two and group gatherings to bespoke themes or unusual locations, their fine picnic dining experiences use locally-sourced seasonal ingredients that reconnect you to the pure joy of food. Book HERE

Grand Park picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Grand Park, with its majestic views extending from the Music Center to City Hall, provides Angelenos a place where they can come together to celebrate, reflect, and and play. Throughout Grand Park, open spaces are available for casual sitting, leisurely strolling, and dining al fresco. Grand Park has four distinct areas featuring amenities ranging from a restored historic Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain with a new wade-able membrane pool, a small intimate performance lawn, a community terrace planted with drought-tolerant specimen plants, and a grand event lawn.

LA State Historic Park picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles State Historic Park 1245 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Often referred to as the “Central Park of Los Angeles,” the 34-acre green space is situated next to the Chinatown Metro Gold Line stop, at the midpoint of an evolving 52-mile Los Angeles River greenway. Formerly referred to as “the Cornfield” by locals, the park is now home to grassland, orange trees, public art, and a mile-long run/walk trail. Park visitors can wander pathways and enjoy a view of downtown, as well as discover and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of Los Angeles. You can run, walk, ride a bike, have a picnic, fly a kite and even look for urban wildlife, such as birds traveling down the Pacific flyway.

Vista Hermosa Natural Park picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Vista Hermosa Natural Park 100 N Toluca Street Los Angeles, CA 90026

Located at the western gateway to Downtown Los Angeles, 10.5-acre Vista Hermosa Park is an urban natural park that boldly returns the serenity and diversity of nature to the Los Angeles urban core. Operated in collaboration with the Los Angeles Unified School District and the City of Los Angeles, the park features walking trails, streams, meadows, oak savannahs, picnic grounds, and a nature-themed playground amidst native Mediterranean vegetation.

Pottery Barn Picnic Basket picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Providence Woven Picnic Basket

Life’s a picnic! Embrace it with the Providence Woven Picnic Basket, which is finely woven with genuine willow and detailed with faux leather handles. The nautical navy-and-white striped interior makes it perfect for maritime and mainland adventures alike. Ideal for a day date or get together with friends, the basket is fully outfitted for two or four. Buy at Pottery Barn HERE

Frontier Picnic Backpack

With its highly functional design, sleek looks and service for four, the Frontier Picnic Backpack is every adventurer’s dream. Constructed of cationic dyed polyester and 420D polyester with faux nylon webbing, this 2-tiered backpack has adjustable padded straps, a heat sealed cooler on the bottom, and a dry compartment on top. Just fill it up and strap it to your back. Buy at Pottery Barn HERE

DTLA Cheese picnics near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

DTLA Cheese Grand Central Market Stall A-7 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

DTLA Cheese has introduced The Picnic Pack. This fanciful snackable cheese plate is the perfect thing to take to the park and share with friends. The Picnic Pack includes four cheeses, BobbySue’s candied nuts, corn nuts, cornichons, sweets peps, dried fruit, pear balsamic jam, beurre de baratte, marou mini chocolate bar, and a baguette. All that for $35, with an option to add salami. Available to order online for curbside pickup.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Party Picnic LA

Photo #2: Hollywood Picnics

Photo #3: Picnic Party LA

Photo #4: The Picnic Collective

Photo #5: Grand Park

Photo #6: Los Angeles State Historic Park

Photo #7: Vista Hermosa Natural Park

Photo #8: Providence Woven Picnic Basket

Photo #9: Frontier Picnic Backpack

Photo #10: DTLA Cheese

Let It Glow: Where to See the Holiday Lights in LA

It’s time to sparkle and shine, and DTLA is all aglow with holiday lights to make your spirits bright. You’ll also find some spectacular displays just a short distance from Circa, such as Altadena’s legendary Christmas Tree Lane and St. Albans Road in San Marino. This year, you can experience seasonal celebrations from the comfort of your car, like the Dodgers Drive Thru Holiday Festival and The Bite LA Sweets Crawl at Whittier Narrows’ Legg Lake. Or take a moment to reflect on nature’s beauty at Descanso Gardens and stroll among the stunning art installations at South Coast Botanic Garden. This season, there’s no end to the holiday magic when you let it glow.

Sparkle DTLA holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Sparkle DTLA The Bloc 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Experience a magical holiday show as 18 million hues of lights illuminate the night and synchronize to festive tunes. Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc will take you through an unforgettable night time journey that includes one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays. Capture your perfect photo-op moments at this ultimate holiday experience.

Dodgers Drive Thru Holiday Festival holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Dodgers Drive Thru Holiday Festival Dodger Stadium 1000 Vin Scully Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The 2020 World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers are hosting a drive-thru Holiday Festival, complete with a light show, LED video displays, faux snow, and interactive displays honoring the Dodgers World Championship and celebrating the holidays. The Dodgers Holiday Festival is a great way to enjoy the holidays responsibly from the comfort of your own vehicle. Open nightly 5-10PM until December 24. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Grand Park holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

This year Grand Park is trading its annual Winter Glow for a thoughtful art installation called “Ground Our Present, Dot Our Future,” featuring walkways flecked with Angelenos’ messages about hope and social connection. Read them in the glow of a lighted selfie wall, fountain and holiday tree in front of the Music Center. Until Jan. 2, 2021. Free admission.

Reflections at Descanso Gardens holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Reflections at Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens invites you to take a moment to reflect and enjoy the beauty that’s all around us. Discover art pieces in the garden, special seasonal plantings, self-guided activities, and a beautiful Wishing Tree created by artist Kaz Yokou Kitajima. Walk through the Golden Grove where gold-burnished logs and stones will appear from the base of the oaks creating a festive glow. Stroll through the Camellia Forest and visit the Mirror Tree, adorned with mirrors that reflect the light and beauty around it, and make a wish for the New Year. Non-members must purchase tickets online in advance.

Christmas Tree Lane holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Christmas Tree Lane Santa Rosa Ave. (between Woodbury Ave. and Altadena Dr.) Altadena, CA 91001

Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena is the oldest large-scale Christmas lighting spectacle in the United States. In 1885, real estate magnate John P. Woodbury of the Woodbury Family, the founders of Altadena, planted 134 deodar trees (broad conical cedars) as a grand mile-long driveway entrance to the mansion he would build. Woodbury’s mansion was never built, but the trees thrived and the “driveway” became Santa Rosa Avenue. Every Christmas season for more than 80 years, the majestic deodars on the “Mile of Christmas Trees” are strung with 10,000 lights for you to drive through and enjoy.

GLOW at South Coast Botanic Garden holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

GLOW South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

South Coast Botanic Garden is proud to present GLOW, a visually stunning art installation that transforms the lush botanic oasis into an oceanic experience for their Garden Lights & Ocean Waters theme, using thousands of lights designed by California Outdoor Lighting. The walk is set to an artistically curated soundtrack featuring a little something for everyone, including original music created for GLOW by Jerzy, as well as Baja surf music, Train, and Vivaldi. Let the colors wash over you like a wave and the music be your current, guiding you through this unique and unforgettable after-dark walk.

St. Albans Road near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

St. Albans Road St. Albans Rd. & Huntington Dr. San Marino, CA 91108

Every December, the tall majestic pines that line Saint Albans Road are bedecked in colored lights to resemble giant Christmas trees. This old San Marino neighborhood is also a treasure trove of stately old California architecture, all dressed up for the holidays.

Mission Inn & Spa holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Festival of Lights Mission Inn & Spa 3649 Mission Inn Ave. Riverside, CA 92501

The Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is one of the nation’s largest holiday light collections, voted “Best Public Lights Display” by USA Today. The Festival of Lights is a cherished annual tradition created by the inn’s owners as a gift for the community back in 1992. Every year, it attracts over 500,000 visitors, all thrilled to watch the display come to life through the holidays. This year, the hotel will feature dazzling lights on the exterior of the hotel, interior lighting, and holiday décor that captures the true essence and history of this beautiful venue.

Winterlit Downtown Santa Monica holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Winterlit 1351 3rd Street Promenade Downtown Santa Monica, CA 90401

Winterlit returns to Downtown Santa Monica to brighten up the holiday season. Tens of thousands of lights will illuminate the Third Street Promenade’s festive outdoor retail, and holiday-inspired art installations will come to life at eleven stops throughout Third Street Promenade, featuring window displays in storefronts and murals created by local artists who were asked to interpret what the holiday season means to them during this unprecedented year.

The Bite LA Stocking Stuffer Sweets Crawl holiday lights near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Stocking Stuffer Sweets Crawl Legg Lake 751 Santa Anita Ave. South El Monte, CA 91733

From the creators of The Bite LA: Halloween Food Crawl and the former creative director of the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride, comes a seasonal twist on the drive-thru experience offering immersive winter holiday fun. Whittier Narrows’ Legg Lake is transformed into a winter wonderland with sweets and activities all available from the comfort of your car. Stock up on sweets with your complimentary BITE LA stocking (8 Sweets Bites are included). Get your bag of 5 safe, cotton plush ‘sno-balls’ (included with your ticket) and enter the Snowman Sno-Ball Fight. Dress up your ride in the ugliest holiday sweater or decor and be entered to win prizes throughout the season. The gaudier the merrier.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: The Bloc

Photo #2: The Bloc

Photo #3: Los Angeles Dodgers

Photo #4: Grand Park

Photo #5: Descanso Gardens

Photo #6: Christmas Tree Lane

Photo #7: South Coast Botanic Garden

Photo #8: Red Tricycle/Sarah P. via Yelp

Photo #9: Mission Inn & Spa

Photo #10: Downtown Santa Monica

Photo #11: The Bite LA

Get Your Halloween Scary On

Halloween is always a thrilling time of year, with spooky events and creepy outdoor activities unfolding under the night sky. But this year’s celebration will be even more special, because a blue moon will illuminate the sky on the evening of October 31. Start your spirited adventure with an audio tour of DTLA’s most ghostly buildings. Relish a ghoulish dinner at a haunted Vicitorian mansion or feed your fears at an eerie Halloween food crawl. Discover the traditions of Día de los Muertos as you stroll through Grand Park. Immerse yourself in a multimedia horror show from the safety of your own vehicle. For residents of Circa, there’s no end to the fiendish fun when you get your Halloween scary on.

Secret Los Angeles Haunted Dinner & Cocktail Experience near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Haunted Dinner & Cocktail Experience 1725 N Hudson Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90028

Welcome hungry guests! A night of horror awaits you in a graveyard at L.A.’s oldest haunted house. Drop your candy basket at the door and step into this historic, three-story Victorian mansion where you’re promised a thrilling night, Confirm your seat at the dinner table and make your way through various scenes and experiences. There’ll be eerie encounters, with the eyes of demons, vampires, and witches on you at all times. Once you’ve made your way out of the maze of cobwebs and hallways with creaking floors, you’ll be treated to a dinner in a wonderfully macabre outdoor area — a graveyard. The ghostly hosts will feed you a menu that is simply “to die for” so make sure you come with an appetite.

Grand Park Día de los Muertos Altars near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Día de los Muertos Altars Grand Park 200 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Experience the traditions of Día de los Muertos as you stroll through 11 altars located throughout Grand Park, curated by Self Help Graphics in collaboration with their Noche de Ofrenda series of programs. The exhibiton includes the annual Community Altar created by Maestra Ofelia Esparza and her family. All personally and culturally relevant to Los Angeles, the 10 main large-scale altar installations represent the losses and causes of this past year. The altars are created by artists and community partners and focus on the youth from the East Los Angeles Women’s Center, and workers and tenants from Community Power Collective.

Haunted Tour of DTLA near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Self Guided Audio Tour of Haunted Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles has its share of ghost stories. The backdrop of noir novels and real-life crimes, the city’s Beaux Arts buildings have seen their share of chilling events. This Halloween, you can see them for yourself, by taking an immersive, self-guided walking or driving tour of Haunted Los Angeles. When you arrive at each stop on the tour, trigger the audio to hear a bit about the eerie history of the location – and about the ghosts that are said to still haunt the hallways to this day. Words by James Bartlett and narration by Bill Kates.

Stranger Things Drive-In near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Stranger Things Drive-In ROW DTLA 777 Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Attention all Stranger Things fans. It’s time to travel back in time to 1985 and become a Hawkins resident – in real life. Adventure calls, so gather your friends and drive to the Starcourt Mall. Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of Stranger Things, where you will take part in a drive thru experience like no other. Unlock the story of Hawkins in this unique format as you savor some of the best moments from this Netflix series, and maybe even witness some unforeseen and unusual occurrences.

Makers Mess Halloween Kits near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Makers Mess Halloween Kits ROW DTLA 777 Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Halloween is not canceled and Makers Mess has fall kits ready to be picked up. Grab your pumpkin decorating kit and shop their mini pumpkin patch at ROW DTLA. Or just stop by to take a selfie. Makers Mess is a creative art studio that offers art and design classes for all ages. They support artists by cultivating opportunities for them to share their knowledge with individuals, groups and companies.

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride 120 Via Verde Dr. San Dimas, CA 91773

This year Los Angeles Haunted Hayride is taking the hayride off the trail and bringing it to you in the safety of your own parked vehicle. A first of its kind immersive experience from the creators of LA’s favorite Halloween event, this is an original haunted show featuring a multimedia story displayed on a 40 foot screen, as well as horrifying sets and characters from Midnight Falls that surround the theater and bring the story to life. Tickets are extremely limited and will sell out nightly.

The Bite LA: Halloween Food Crawl & Creature Safari near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Bite LA Whittier Narrows 750 S Santa Anita Ave. South El Monte, CA 91733

The Bite LA: Halloween Food Crawl and Creature Safari snakes its way around eerie Legg Lake and through immersive environments, where sinister specters offer up delicious bites of seasonal grub, all from the safety of your own car. Bites vary from savory to sweet and will include vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options for certain items. Bring a flashlight from home and scan the surrounding darkness from the safety of your car, in a hunt for the shadowy and monstrous creatures that roam the abyss. Can you find them all before they find you?

Pumpkin House at Descanso Gardens near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Halloween at Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Throughout the month of October, explore Halloween at Descanso. Guests are invited to safely wind their way through socially-distanced, pumpkin-themed displays in the most popular sections of Descanso Gardens. Highlights include the pumpkin house and hay maze, wooden jack-o’-lanterns, pumpkin arch, and pumpkin mandalas. Descanso Gardens is an urban retreat of year-round natural beauty, internationally renowned botanical collections, and spectacular seasonal horticultural displays. Advance tickets are needed for non-members. Descanso Gardens members can enter anytime.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #2: Secret Los Angeles

Photo #3: Grand Park

Photo #4: Los Angeles Magazine

Photo #5: Stranger Things Drive-In

Photo #6: Makers Mess

Photo #7: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #8: The Bite LA

Photo #9: Descanso Gardens

Valentine’s Day Goes Eclectic!

We all love hearts & flowers. And we’ll never turn down a decadent box of chocolates or romantic dinner à deux. But since 2020 is leap year, why not take the plunge and try something different this Valentine’s Day! How about a wine tasting event with a breathtaking view of the city! Or a Valentine-themed cinema and dance party at one of LA’s spectacular historic theaters? On a budget – we’ve got you covered! Grand Park is presenting Lovers Rock, a free concert complete with mood lighting, curated music, and a moonlit walk throughout the park’s Olive Court. With or without an SO, you’ll have a great excuse to get out and party when Valentine’s Day Goes Eclectic!

LA Opera’s Eurydice Dorothy Chandler Pavilion 135 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Through Feb 23 LA Opera presents the world premiere of Eurydice. In the Greek myth, she was a shadowy figure we barely knew. Let’s change that. Matthew Aucoin partners with playwright Sarah Ruhl for a new opera that reimagines ancient mythology for a modern age. This time, the tale unfolds from the heroine’s point of view. (Finally, right?) Tragically killed on her wedding day, a young bride descends into the underworld, where she reconnects with her adoring father. Presented with the opportunity to return to her husband in the world of the living, she must choose between the two men she loves.

Love on the Vine San Antonio Winery 737 Lamar St. Los Angeles, CA 90031

Celebrate a romantic Valentine’s Day at San Antonio Winery with a special three-course Prix Fixe menu. Bypass the Valentine’s Day dinner lines and you’ll be escorted directly to the dining area, where table service will be provided. Begin with a Champagne toast. Dinner includes a complimentary bottle of Maddalena Cabernet Sauvignon or Stella Rosa Red, your choice, to be enjoyed at your meal. One bottle per couple. Family-owned San Antonio Winery is the oldest winery in Downtown Los Angeles, a hidden gem and historical landmark operating in the same community where it was founded in 1917. Wine Enthusiast recently awarded Riboli Family of San Antonio Winery with the prestigious American Winery of the Year award.

Love is in the Air OUE Skyspace 633 W 5th St #840 Los Angeles, CA 90071

Through Feb 16 Love is in the air this Valentine’s at Skyspace, with the perfect package to celebrate with your loved one! Your Love is in the Air General Admission Ticket includes 2 Rides on the Skyslide, Chocolate Covered Strawberries, a bottle of Champagne, and Viewfinder Brochure. Your bottle of champagne and strawberries can be picked up at the Skyspace Bar on the 69th floor. Pick up your Viewfinder Brochure at the Skyspace Box Office upon entry. Package is 21+

Be Wine Tasting OUE Skyspace 633 W 5th St #840 Los Angeles, CA 90071

Feb 14 Calling couples and singles alike for a unique Valentine’s Day wine tasting experience! OUE Skyspace is presenting the Be Wine Valentine Tasting Event from 7pm-9pm. Sample 5 different wine varietals paired with delicious bites and breathtaking views. Hang around after the event and dance the night away at the Skyspace Nights after-party with Lani Love and Diall Jess (House, R&B House, Funk, and Disco music).

Lovers Rock Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Rooted in the reggae sounds of the 1970s and in Caribbean nightclubs in London, Lovers Rock is more than a music genre—it serves as a space of love, identity and resistance, fostering a nuanced intersection of gender and expression. Grand Park celebrates Lovers Rock and transforms the 12-acre urban oasis with mood lighting and curated music into the premier date spot for couples celebrating Valentine’s Day on a budget, or singles who just want to get out and party!. Angelenos can bring a picnic dinner and enjoy a romantic evening at tables for two around Grand Park’s iconic Arthur J. Will Memorial fountain followed by a moonlit walk throughout the park’s Olive Court amidst the historic views of Los Angeles City Hall. Guests will experience special music curated to enhance the park’s beautiful surroundings.

February 13 is Galentine’s Day

We’re quick to shower our significant others with gifts and treats on February 14, but the day prior was designed to celebrate other equally important relationships in our lives – our girlfriends! Galentine’s Day was the creation of the beloved fictional deputy director of Parks and Recreation in Pawnee, Indiana, Leslie Knope. So gather your gal pals and celebrate with a special brunch, spa day, or fabulous night out on the town!

SPRING/BREAK Art Show Skylight ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Feb 14-16 SPRING/BREAK Art Show is an internationally recognized art fair that activates atypical spaces and challenges the traditional cultural landscape of the art market. The fair will showcase the area’s rich contemporary art culture, featuring exhibitions from 60 independent curators, artists, and gallerists. Entrance is down the Narrows Alley in Building 3.

Street Food Cinema Valentine’s Weekend Million Dollar Theatre 307 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Feb 14 La La Land While navigating their careers in Los Angeles, a pianist and an actress fall in love while attempting to reconcile their aspirations for the future. Event features a Valentine’s Photo Booth and specialty cocktails. Guests will be able to bring food from the Grand Central Market inside the Million Dollar Theatre or eat at one of the vendors inside the theater.

Feb 15 Bloody Valentine’s: The Silence of the Lambs A young F.B.I. cadet must receive the help of an incarcerated and manipulative cannibal killer to help catch another serial killer, a madman who skins his victims. Live music by DJ Ivy. You may bring food from Grand Central Market into the theater!

The Wedding Singer + Valentine’s Day Party Los Angeles Theatre 615 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90014

Feb. 14 Cinespia presents The Wedding Singer Valentine’s Day Party, featuring live music, DJ dance party, 5 floors of bars, free photo booth, and a special screening of The Wedding Singer in one of LA’s most beautiful movie palaces.

Crush Valentine’s Wine Festival City Market Social House 1145 San Pedro St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Feb 15 Crush Valentine’s Day with a tasting festival celebrating wine, for friends and lovers alike! Sample a remarkable variety of wines from esteemed and emerging vineyards across California and the world. Join representatives from wineries to taste their current releases and learn about what makes their vintages special. This is a wine festival that’s all about the play and precision defining viticulture today, and an opportunity to have fun with tarot card readers, florists, jewelry vendors, and more! Food will be prepared by chefs from local restaurants while you enjoy music and the gift shop vendors. Cheers!

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Image courtesy of OUE Skyspace

Photo #2: Image courtesy of LA Opera

Photo #3: Image courtesy of San Antonio Winery

Photo #3: Image courtesy of LA Opera

Photo #4: Image courtesy of OUE Skyspace

Photo #5: Image courtesy of OUE Skyspace

Photo #6: Image courtesy of Grand Park

Photo #7: Image courtesy of National Today

Photo #8: Image courtesy of SPRING/BREAK Art Show

Photo #9: Image courtesy of Million Dollar Theatre

Photo #10: Image courtesy of Cinespia

Photo #11: Image courtesy of Crush Valentine’s Wine Festival