Major Arts Organizations Offer Live Streaming & Access to Digital Archives

The Culture Beat goes on! Major arts organizations, including LA Phil, LA Opera, The Met, Hammer Museum, and The Broad, are offering free live streaming and access to their digital archives! Ordinarily, you might have to pay a hefty fee for some of these services, but in the spirit of healing through art, these institutions are throwing open their virtual doors and sharing their treasures with the world. In these unprecedented times, please consider making a donation to your favorite arts organization to keep our culture beat alive and thriving!

LA Opera@Home

Opera is bigger than just a stage – that’s why LA Opera is bringing it directly into your home. Enjoy all kinds of opera from the comfort of your couch, regardless of your previous experience or knowledge of opera. Whether it’s live Living Room Recitals, broadcasts of old performances, or how-to’s with some of your favorite artists, there are a ton of ways you can #LAOAtHome.

LA Phil At Home With Gustavo

Gustavo Dudamel has partnered with KUSC in Los Angeles and KDFC in San Francisco on a new radio show that he’s recording in his home. Tune in Tuesday-Friday at 6pm and Sunday at 7pm to hear Gustavo Dudamel’s broadcast on KUSC and KDFC, both on the air and online. You can also explore LA Phil’s archives online including videos, music, podcasts, interviews, and more.

Berlin Philharmonie Digital Concert Hall

The Berlin Philharmonie is closed for now, so they will come to you. The Digital Concert Hall is now free for everyone. Redeem the voucher code BERLINPHIL and receive free access to all concerts and films. The Philharmonie Berlin has been the musical heart of Berlin since 1963. Located at the periphery of West Berlin when it opened, it became part of the new urban center after the fall of the Berlin Wall. The distinctive tent-like shape and eye-catching bright yellow color makes it one of the city’s most beloved landmarks. The unusual architecture and innovative concert hall design initially ignited controversy, but it now serves as a model for concert halls all over the world.

The Metropolitan Opera Nightly Opera Stream

During this extraordinary time, the Met hopes to brighten the lives of their audience members even while their stage is dark. The Metropolitan Opera is offering free Nightly Opera Streams on their website – performances that show off opera at its most thrilling, thought-provoking, and uplifting. Each day, a different encore presentation from the company’s Live in HD series is available for free streaming, with each performance available for a period of 23 hours, from 7:30 p.m. EDT until 6:30 p.m. the following day. The schedule will include outstanding complete performances from the past 14 years of cinema transmissions, starring all of opera’s greatest singers.

Geffen Stayhouse

Geffen Stayhouse, presented by the Geffen Playhouse, is sharing exclusive, original content every Wednesday from some of their wonderful Geffen alumns and favorite theater artists. You can also watch full-length productions of Geffen Playhouse shows on BroadwayHD, including Long Day’s Journey Into Night, featuring Alfred Molina and Jane Kaczmarek; Thom Pain, featuring Rainn Wilson (The Office); and Benjamin Scheuer’s The Lion. And as a special treat, Benjamin is presenting an exclusive performance of “Weather the Storm” from The Lion all the way from Wales, UK, where he’s hunkering down with his family.

Hammer Museum Watch & Listen

Art has the power to transport us and to give insight into pressing cultural, political, and social questions. The Hammer’s lectures, symposia, film series, readings, and performances aim to spark meaningful encounters with art and ideas. Many of these programs were recorded and you’ll find selected highlights on their website. Find more on their YouTube channel. You can also watch interviews with Hammer artists.

The Broad From Home

While The Broad may be temporarily closed, they’re still committed to inspiring and fostering an appreciation of contemporary art. Through their new digital initiatives, they are offering ways to experience #TheBroadFromHome. Find inspiration through music, videos, poetry, and conversations (from a distance!). Check out the Infinite Drone Series, a new, contemplative way of experiencing The Broad’s most popular artwork, Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away

GRAMMY Museum at Home

The GRAMMY Museum Exhibits at Home and Programs at Home allow you to access exhibits and watch conversations with musicians and industry professionals from their archives. The GRAMMY Museum seeks to educate and inspire all Museum visitors and members as to the enduring qualities and cultural significance of all genres of music.

LACO at Home

Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra’s LACO AT HOME allows people everywhere to engage and listen to spellbinding performances with “America’s finest chamber orchestra” — no subscription, sign-up, or payment required. We may not be able to gather together to share music in person, but current circumstances will not prevent LACO from providing you with exquisite, enduring, personal musical experiences. LACO is happy to announce that their musicians have generously volunteered to share a wide variety of audio and video options during this time. All broadcasts can be live-streamed and streamed on-demand.

Photo credits: 

Photo #1: LA Phil

Photo #2: LA Opera

Photo #3: LA Phil

Photo #4: Berlin Philharmonie

Photo #5: The Metropolitan Opera

Photo #6: Geffen Playhouse

Photo #7: Hammer Museum

Photo #8: The Broad

Photo #9: GRAMMY Museum

Photo #10: LACO

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Spectacular DTLA!

Making plans for New Year’s Eve? Downtown LA is bubbling with great ways to party – from sophisticated entertainment and swanky soirées, to epic dance parties and decadent dinners. You can even take a ride on the SkySlide atop LA’s tallest building – if you dare! So pop the cork, grab your noise makers, and get ready to celebrate New Year’s Eve with a bang in spectacular DTLA!

Grand Park

N.Y.E.L.A. Grand Park + The Music Center 200 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles CA 90012

Ring in 2020 at the West Coast’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration! For the 7th year, Grand Park and The Music Center’s N.Y.E.L.A. is the place to come together and party with live music, food, photo booths and amazing projection art on beautiful City Hall.

Prohibition NYE

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

Welcome to the New Roaring Twenties! For its 8th year, Prohibition NYE will return to the iconic Union Station and revive the excitement and glamour of this fabulous decade. Experience Los Angeles’ premier New Year’s Eve Party with theatrical burlesque, live jazz ensembles, a premium open bar featuring champagne & specialty cocktails, a headlining DJ Set from RAC, and Prohibition NYE’s signature 60-foot, midnight ball-drop celebration!

Minimal Effort

Minimal Effort Los Angeles Theatre 615 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90014

Minimal Effort: NYE is back to ring in 2020 at the Los Angeles Theatre, presented by Underrated, Spaceland, L’Affaire Musicale, and Orlove & LOST. Dance to your fave acts including Bart Skils b2b Layton Giordani, Detlef b2b Latmun, Doc Martin (Sublevel), Human Resources, and more! For general questions or VIP Table information, email orlove@orloveentertainment.com or call 310-384-3789.

Dita Von Tease

Dita Von Teese’s New Year’s Eve Gala Show The Orpheum Theatre 842 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Embark on a journey into fantasy and spectacle with Dita Von Teese’s New Year’s Eve Gala Show. Renowned for her ornate sets and dazzling haute-couture performance costumes, lavishly adorned with hundreds of thousands of Swarovski crystals, Von Tease is sure to please! Performing since 1992, Dita Von Tease is the biggest name in burlesque since Gypsy Rose Lee and is credited with bringing the art form back into the spotlight with a new sense of elegance and sophistication.

OUE Skyspace

NYE Party at OUE Skyspace 633 W 5th St. #840 Los Angeles, CA 90071

Hit the heights this New Year’s Eve at LA’s tallest open-air observation deck – OUE Skyspace! Enjoy two floors of entertainment from three DJ’s, two open air terraces and unlimited SkySlide Rides. Your All-Inclusive General Admission package includes Open Bar (9pm-1am), Appetizers, and Champagne Toast at Midnight.

Redbird

NYE at Redbird 114 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at an LA icon! Located in downtown Los Angeles, Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems, inside the former rectory building of Vibiana – the cathedral-turned-event-venue. Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll Fraser are hosting a New Year’s Eve party in the East Room and West Room, both located on the second floor. Tickets are $60 per person (plus tax) including a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Additional beverages will be charged upon consumption. In addition to the party, they are hosting a special New Year’s Eve three-course dinner in the Main Dining Room.

The Reserve

NYE @The Reserve 650 South Spring Street Los Angeles, CA 90014

Once filled with riches of the wealthiest Angelenos in the 1920s, the modern-day Reserve continues the tradition of excellence and sophistication, giving old-school elegance a new-school flair. Enjoy an unforgettable night filled with top notch glamour and enchantment setting the tone for 2020! The Reserve presents a unique taste of American History, featuring three rooms inside The Reserve and the entire venue of The Majestic, with its crystal chandeliers, painted Italian ceilings, arched windows, sculpted marble columns and original marble floors. All tickets and bottle service packages include a 5-hour open bar (9pm to 2am), midnight toast, photo booth pictures, and a special Midnight Countdown celebration in each room.

Kristin Chenowith

New Year’s Eve with Kristin Chenoweth Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

The wildly talented and versatile star of Broadway and TV sends 2019 out with a bang, with two performances of material drawn from throughout her career – including music from her new album For the Girls. Whether she’s singing show tunes, gospel, country, or pop, the Tony® and Emmy® Award winner commands the stage with her operatic voice, unparalleled panache, and charm. Evening includes guest appearances by Shoshana Bean and Cheyenne Jackson. Arrive early and visit the festive NYE lounge in BP Hall for champagne and specialty cocktails to toast the New Year.

Treehouse Rooftop

Downtown Countdown Treehouse Rooftop Lounge 686 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Ring in 2020 in style at the vibrant Treehouse Rooftop this New Year’s Eve! Treehouse Rooftop is a beautiful indoor/outdoor venue in the heart of Chinatown, featuring state of the art design, sound, lighting and a heated outdoor patio. LA’s hottest DJ’s will welcome the new year with a special midnight countdown at the last party of the decade! Photo booth, NYE party favors, food & snacks will available for purchase all night.

Celebrate the Season in Spectacular DTLA!

It’s your time to sparkle and shine – and DTLA is all aglow with fabulous festivities to make your spirits bright! Join in song with hundreds of fellow revelers – plus a jazz combo, a choir, and the mighty pipe organ at the LA Phil Sing-Along. Thrill to the music of Mozart in LA Opera’s final performance of The Magic Flute. Immerse yourself in brilliant holiday light displays and ice skate under the glittering LA skyline. There’s np end to the holiday magic when you celebrate the season in spectacular DTLA!

Deck the Hall

Deck the Hall – LA Phil Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

A treasured L.A. tradition, Deck the Hall offers outstanding holiday programming for a wide variety of tastes at Walt Disney Concert Hall! Make sure to arrive early for drinks and merriment in the fun-filled Winter Wonderland. The program includes guest artist performances, sing-alongs and more – snowshoes not required!

LA Opera

The Magic Flute LA Opera Dorothy Chandler Pavilion 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Dec 15 True love is never easy. Especially when there’s a giant spider chasing you. And she’s your mom. LA Opera presents The Magic Flute, composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and conducted by James Conlon / Grant Gershon. A dazzling celebration of love conquering all, The Magic Flute transports you into an enchanted world where good battles the forces of darkness. With the seamless interaction between onstage performers and projected hand-drawn animation, this inventive and charming interpretation brilliantly captures Mozart’s delightful blend of high comedy and adventure.

Grand Park

Grand Park Winter Glow DTLA 200 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Expanded across Grand Avenue to include the newly renovated Music Center Plaza, Grand Park’s Winter Glow returns for its second annual nighttime public art display, offering an immersive experience that spans two county locations this holiday season. As the days shorten and darken, the park celebrates light as a giver of warmth, a source of beauty, and the key component to bringing people together during the fall and winter months. In this interconnectivity, guests and families can share thoughts, identity, and space, making new holiday memories as they stroll through an illuminated and interactive art installation. Familiar pathways and historic fountains will lead to exciting new discoveries as the latest in light and projection technology transform spaces on The Music Center Plaza and in Grand Park.

LA Master Chorale

Messiah Sing-Along Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Dec 18 LA Master Chorale conductor leads the popular do-it-yourself version of Handel’s Messiah, where the audience is the chorus.This will be the 39th annual Messiah Sing-Along and is sure to pack the house. Bring your own score or purchase one in the lobby. A limited number of VIP onstage tickets are available to bring you closer to the musical action. Hallelujah!

Pershing Square

Winter Wonderland Pershing Square 532 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Lace up your skates and glide into the holidays with ice skating in Pershing Square! The Bai Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square offers the quintessential winter activity in the heart of beautiful downtown Los Angeles. Surrounded by art, lively activity, and the impressive city skyline, you can enjoy enjoy holiday concerts and other festive events under the sun and stars. Complete schedule HERE

The Bloc

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

Experience the world’s largest illuminated interactive holiday display at The Bloc in DTLA. Sparkle DTLA takes you through a magical nighttime journey of 16 million beautiful hues of lights that illuminate the city skyline and synchronize to your favorite holiday songs at the top of each hour. The display features a 16-foot larger-than-life ornament that you can walk through, and a 32-foot tree that you can enter to capture your perfect photo-op moments. The dazzling light display and interactive experience is the ideal holiday backdrop to creating special memories with your friends and family.

LA Kings

LA Kings Holiday Ice L.A. LIVE 800 W Olympic Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90015

Skate like a King as the LA Kings bring the Ice Skating Rink back to L.A. Live. Skate around a huge Christmas tree, surrounded by the signature vibrant LED screens of LA Live. Go early or stay late after a concert or sports game to skate the night away.

Union Station

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

Explore one of L.A.’s most iconic gems – Union Station – during the most festive time of the year. Learn the history of this extraordinary Spanish Colonial Revival and Art Deco monument as you enjoy the sounds, and sights of the season. You’ll cover the majority of Union Station from the famous Waiting Room—seen in countless movies—to the Fred Harvey Restaurant, much of which has been beautifully decorated for the season. Stay after the tour on December tour dates for Union Station’s free Cocoa Concerts. Enjoy a concert, cocoa bar, holiday light display, and more from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. on the South Patio.

Get Spooked! LA’s Best Halloween Celebrations!

Have you ever wondered why we carve pumpkins and get dressed up for Halloween? Halloween’s origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. The Irish brought the tradition of carving jack-o-lanterns to America. But the original jack-o-lantern was not a pumpkin at all, because pumpkins did not exist in Ireland! Ancient Celtic cultures carved turnips and placed an ember in them to ward off evil spirits. Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of fun activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes, and eating treats.

So let’s get spooked with LA’s best Halloween celebrations!

Psycho

LA Opera Psycho Live Ace Hotel 929 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90015

Experience Alfred Hitchcock’s classic Psycho, featuring the LA Opera Orchestra, on the big screen with live violins taking the shower scene to a whole new level of creep! You know the story: a secretary on the run, an isolated motel, and an awkward guy with some serious mother issues. Shown in the cavernous Spanish-Gothic Theatre at Ace Hotel in Downtown LA, LA Opera’s got the spooky vibes fit for your perfect Halloween. Norman invites you to a killer after-party on October 25th and October 31st, included with your ticket. Are you brave enough to enter our costume contest on October 31st? The top three winners will receive a prize (if you make it out alive).

Hunchback of Notre Dame

The Hunchback of Notre Dame Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Organist Clark Wilson sets a haunting scene as he accompanies the 1923 silent film The Hunchback of Notre Dame, featuring a legendary performance from Lon Chaney. Get a guided tour of the evening’s music before your concert at Upbeat Live! Key thinkers and guest musicians – including members of the LA Phil – share their expertise and offer historical and cultural context for your program’s pieces, giving you a deeper understanding of the music. This free event is held in BP Hall, accessible after your ticket is scanned.

History of Horror

The Natural History of Horror Natural History Museum 900 W Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Just in time for Halloween, the Natural History Museum is presenting a spooky, homegrown Hollywood exhibition that reveals the science of the scary. Walk into the museum’s Grand Foyer, past a pair of dueling dinosaurs, toward the building’s northeast corner, and you’ll soon find yourself in a dark room flickering with hidden surprises. Your senses will tingle as you hear about the scientific experiments and discoveries that inspired filmmakers to create four of the world‘s most iconic movie monsters: the Creature from the Black Lagoon, Frankenstein, the Mummy, and Dracula. Whether these classics spotlighted sinister figures lurking in the shadows or creatures waiting unseen beneath the water, one thing is true: Each larger-than-life character had a surprisingly rich real-world backstory.

Hallows Masquerade

Hallows Masquerade Redbird 114 East Second St. Los Angeles, CA

Redbird is presenting a Halloween Masquerade featuring food & drink, dancing & reverie, and music & theatrics for an unforgettable Halloween night!  Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems, inside the former rectory building of Vibiana. Set in the upper chambers of Redbird, the Hallows Masquerade promises to be elegant evening of mystery and delight. Each ticket includes hors d’oeuvres by Redbird/Vibiana chef/owner Neal Fraser and cocktails by bar director Tobin Shea (cash bar). Music by Adam Freeland (The Acid), Jessica Tonder, Jonny Cota, Little Dinosaur, Metal Mother, Sorne and more. Costumes and masks are highly encouraged!

House of Spirits

House of Spirits 2218 S Harvard Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018

Step inside the House of Spirits — a haunted cocktail soiree that is unlike any other party in town! Freely roam a mysterious mansion and experience a night of themed cocktails, macabre magic, sinister séances, tarot readings, strange roaming specters, live music, hidden secret games, giant Ouija boards and so much more! Within the walls of a decrepit and decaying house, a mad man nearing the end of his life painted six disturbing portraits depicting peculiar figures. Those paintings have become known as the Spirit Paintings, and that mad man was famed artist Francisco Vega. According to fragmented notes scribbled in his journals, Vega believed these paintings were the key to opening a doorway to another world. Perhaps he was right, for when he completed the sixth Spirit Painting, Vega disappeared somewhere inside the house and his remains have never been discovered.

Olvera Street

Dia de los Muertos Olvera Street Los Angeles, CA 90012

For over 30 years, the merchants on Olvera Street have celebrated Dia de los Muertos. The celebration has evolved to incorporate the pre-Columbian, Aztec, Mayan and Catholic rituals surrounding death. Dia de los Muertos at Olvera Street is the only celebration of its kind in Los Angeles – a nine day festival with altars on display, food, face painting, and entertainment throughout. Each night, a vibrant and colorful procession sets the stage for the ceremony. Dia de los Muertos is, in fact, a celebration of life – it is not a time to mourn our loved ones, rather it is a time to remember the lives they lead and the many things they enjoyed during that life.

Grand Park

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

Grand Park celebrates the traditions of Día de los Muertos with an immersive display of compelling installations and artwork.! Guests can experience, discuss and learn about the traditions of Día de los Muertos and stroll through 40+ altars, curated by Self Help Graphics located throughout Grand Park, as well as the newly renovated Music Center Plaza. At the Music Center Plaza, view colorful swags of papel picado designed by artist Maricela Sosa as they adorn the Grand Avenue stairs and welcome visitors to the Plaza. The newly-renovated Plaza fountain will be lit in orange and yellow for the week as a nod to marigold flowers, ubiquitous on altars and throughout Dia de los Muertos celebrations.

A New Dia

A New Día Wisdome.LA 1147 Palmetto St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Estrella Jalisco presents A New Día. Día de Muertos reimagined at Wisdome.LA, the world’s first immersive art park. As you make your way from dome to dome and travel through this immersive art experience, you’ll be surrounded by stunningly vivid, colorful recreations of Día de Muertos. Learn about this respected holiday and share an experience with those around you, and put a new spin on Día de Muertos. When you’re done exploring, head around the corner to Zinc Cafe & Market, and show your A New Día ticket for access to exclusive cocktails and discounted appetizers!

Creep LA

Creep LA ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Creep LA is back! Presented by Just Fix It Productions, you are invited into the dark-heart of downtown with their fifth installment: HAUS OF CREEP. The roughly 60-minute multi-sensory exhibit brings you  into the world of Creep L.A., a darkly satirical and terrifying send-up of social media-driven culture. With the growing popularity of “grammable museums,” businesses and consumers are devouring art as a commodity. HAUS OF CREEP sets out to remind us that art is alive, and it can’t be restricted to a little square photo without dangerous consequences. HAUS guests will spend the hour roaming an avant-garde and nightmarish playground of over a dozen installations, witnessing grand shocking scenes as well as intimate scares. HAUS OF CREEP tells its story with a cast of 20 provocative characters and features a sultry lounge, small dark spaces, shadow plays, deranged puppet shows, and innovative analog installations by MEDIA POLLUTION.

Culture Vulture! LA’s Essential Music, Theatre & More

Circa residents are living at the epicenter of one of most exciting cities in the world! The fall season is firing up wth world-class live performances, rare exhibitions, and immersive experiences! So fire up your inner culture vulture and discover LA’s essential music, theatre and more!

Dudamel

LA Phil Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Gustavo Ignites the New Season! Don’t miss Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic as they fire up the 2019/20 season with Gershwin, Copland, Beethoven, Bruckner, Adams, Stravinsky, and more. The LA Phil takes audiences on sweeping musical journeys through electrifying performances, cutting-edge music education, and innovative community engagement programs. Each year, the LA Phil presents over 250 concerts at its two globally renowned venues: Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl.

LA Dance Project

L.A. Dances L.A. Dance Project 2245 E Washington Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90021

L.A. Dances is a six week festival that showcases nine new commissions performed by L.A. Dance Project between September 26th and November 24th. L.A. Dance Project is comprised of twelve full-time dancers based in Los Angeles and is led by Artistic Director, Benjamin Millepied along with Associate Artistic Director, Sebastien Marcovici. The company’s repertory features multidisciplinary collaborations with visual artists, musicians, designers, filmmakers and composers.

Light in the Plaza

Light in the Plaza LA Opera Dorothy Chandler Pavilion 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

It doesn’t get any better than this: Renée Fleming, Dove Cameron and Brian Stokes Mitchell in a ravishing musical! The scene is set: Florence, summer 1953. American Margaret Johnson (Renée Fleming) and her daughter Clara (Dove Cameron) take in the wonder and awe of Florence. A fateful gust of wind whisks Clara’s hat into the hand of a local dreamer…and it’s love at first sight. But Clara isn’t quite what she appears, and soon they must all confront a secret kept in the shadows for far too long. Light in the Plazs is Adam Guettel’s enchanting Broadway musical, which won six Tony Awards, including Best Original Score and Best Orchestrations.

Mark Taper Forum

A Play is a Poem Mark Taper Forum 135 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

From the mind of celebrated playwright and filmmaker Ethan Coen comes an evening of short plays that will take you on an eccentric journey across America. The hillbilly hollows of Appalachia, a New York tenement apartment, a magnolia scented gazebo in Natchez, Mississippi, the executive suites of Hollywood, each stop reveals a unique glimpse at Americana as only Ethan Coen can deliver. Featuring live music composed and performed by Nellie McKay.

Angel City Jazz Festival

Angel City Jazz Festival Various locations

The Angel City Jazz Festival – LA’s most adventurous jazz festival –  was founded in 2008 by music promoter Rocco Somazzi. Since then the festival has grown into an essential multi day celebration of cutting edge jazz at some of the most exciting and prestigious venues in  LA,  such as LACMA, REDCAT, Zipper Hall, the Bluewhale, the World Stage, the Lodge Room and Mr Musichead Gallery. The Angel City Jazz Festival consistently features the most innovative and original national and international jazz musicians working today, balancing established jazz artists with emerging talent, and focusing on west coast creative jazz, past, present and future.

29Rooms

29Rooms 1231 N Spring Street Los Angeles, CA 90012

The makers behind Refinery29 have collaborated with visionaries and brands in the fields of art, activism, style, and technology to bring you 29 experiences under one roof that tap into the conversations of today and our hopes for tomorrow. 29Rooms was launched in 2015 on Refinery29’s 10-Year Anniversary as a way to bring their brand to life in the real world. Today, 29Rooms has become a vibrant community where culture, creativity and imagination are unlocked and celebrated year after year. Through multi-sensory installations, performances, and workshops, you will be presented with a new way to connect with creativity, culture, and community.

Latin History for Morons

Latin History for Morons Centre Theatre Group Ahmanson Theatre 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Uproarious, uncensored, and undeniably entertaining, Latin History for Morons is the show we need right now – a night of eye-opening historical narrative courtesy of Tony® and Emmy® Award winner John Leguizamo. The self-professed ghetto scholar schools America on Cinco de Mayo—no, it’s not the Latino Fourth of July—and every other aspect of Latin history they’ve misunderstood and forgotten to create a heartfelt and funny tribute. From a mad recap of the Aztec empire to stories of the unknown Latin patriots who won American independence, Leguizamo breaks down the 3,000 years between the Mayans and Pitbull into 110 irreverent and incisive minutes.

Judy Chicago

Judy Chicago: Los Angeles Jeffrey Deitch Gallery 925 N Orange Drive Los Angeles, CA 90038

Judy Chicago created a remarkable body of work in Los Angeles and Fresno from 1965 – 72 that has been largely unseen for fifty years. Jeffrey Deitch, Los Angeles is presenting a full survey of these early works until November 2, 2019. The exhibition will feature paintings, drawings, sculpture, installations, and documentation of Chicago’s environmental and fireworks projects. Los Angeles was inhospitable to women artists during this period, but the city’s spirit of self-invention and the lack of art market pressure gave Judy Chicago the freedom to create an innovative and original approach to making art. Intent on learning more about industrial techniques that were not taught at art school, Chicago enrolled in auto body painting school, the only woman out of two hundred fifty men in her class.

LA’s Best Plans for Labor Day Weekend

We love Labor Day weekend! This three-day respite from the daily grind is your annual rite of passage from the waning days of summer to the fun fall days ahead. Created by the labor movement in the late 19th century, Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894 to pay tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers.

So put your work ethic aside and do your patriotic duty – celebrate with LA’s best plans for Labor Day Weekend!

LA Times The Taste

The Taste Paramount Pictures Studios Paramount Backlot 783 N. Van Ness St Los Angeles, CA 90038

Aug 30 – Sept 1 This Labor Day weekend, join the Los Angeles Times for 3 evenings of amazing food, wine, spirits and chef experiences, plus unique culinary pop-ups and collaborations. Dozens of hand-picked local restaurants each evening will showcase our city’s rich and diverse culinary scene by serving you their best. Sip, savor, and celebrate Southern California’s most inspired food and drink. 21 and over only. Your ticket is all-inclusive and is good for unlimited food, beer, wine & spirits tastings, plus all stage activities.

John Williams

John Williams Maestro of the Movies Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Aug 30 – Sept 1 John Williams’ history with the Hollywood Bowl is legendary. This year, our beloved master of cinematic scores introduces a memorable evening of his movie music to be conducted by his colleague and friend, maestro David Newman, including some selections performed with film clips. An unforgettable concert you won’t want to miss!

The Music Center

The Music Center Plaza Grand Opening 135 N Grand Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate the grand opening of the newly renovated Music Center Plaza with free events, featuring art-making, musical performances, food and festivities throughout Labor Day weekend! All are welcome as The Music Center Plaza becomes a fun, casual hangout on a long holiday weekend. The newly renovated space will be transformed into a giant backyard party filled with games and activities, splashing in The Music Center fountain, great food and more. Watch the Los Angeles Dodgers live on giant LED screens and Abernethy’s first five emerging chefs will be on hand, preparing and selling their individual versions of backyard bites and treats.

Fearless Fashion

Fearless Fashion: Rudi Gernreich Skirball Cultural Center 2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049

Ends Sept 1 Los Angeles fashion designer Rudi Gernreich (1922–1985) introduced the “monokini,” the thong, unisex caftans, pantsuits for women, and enough inventive clothing to earn him a worldwide reputation. The exhibition features over eighty Gernreich ensembles, along with accessories, original sketches, photographs, ephemera, and newly filmed interviews of friends and colleagues, illustrating how Gernreich challenged conventional notions of beauty, identity, and gender.

Soul of a Nation

Soul of a Nation The Broad 221 S. Grand Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90012

Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power 1963-1983 shines a bright light on the vital contribution of Black artists made over two decades, beginning in 1963 at the height of the civil rights movement. Soul of a Nation explores how social justice movements, as well as stylistic evolutions in visual art (such as Minimalism and abstraction), were powerfully expressed in the work of artists. Featuring the work of more than 60 influential artists and including vibrant paintings, powerful sculptures, street photography, murals, and more, this landmark exhibition is a rare opportunity to see era-defining artworks that changed the face of art in America.

Labor Day Reserve

Labor Day Weekend @The Reserve 650 South Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Sept 1 & 2 The Reserve is kicking off Labor Day with a bang! Once filled with the riches of the wealthiest Angelenos of the 1920s, the modern day Reserve continues the tradition of excellence and sophistication by giving old school elegance a new school flair. From the unique location, to handcrafted cocktails, and alluring ambiance, The Reserve offers a wide range of luxuries in an intimate setting. Free before 11pm. For Bottle Service Reservations: Call/Text 213.716.9400 or Email at hospitality@thelareserve.com

Mimosa Mondays

Mimosa Mondays Labor Day Edition District 7 Bar & Lounge 555 West 7th Street Los Angeles, CA 90014

Mimosa Mondays may be the most effective cure for your chronic case of post-holiday Manic Mondays. Every three day holiday weekend, The Alumni Group presents Mimosa Mondays — a brunch day party and happy hour that is the perfect end to your 3-day weekend! Have one last hurrah before you head back to that grind on Tuesday. For just $25, you can add bottomless brunch cocktails, including an array of mimosas, to your brunch entree.

Fleet Week

LA Fleet Week Los Angeles World Cruise Center 600 N. Harbor Blvd San Pedro, CA 90731

LA Fleet Week® is an annual, multi-day celebration of our nation’s Sea Services held on the LA Waterfront at the Port of Los Angeles over the extended Labor Day Weekend. Free to the public, the event features active duty ship tours, military displays and equipment demonstrations, live entertainment, aircraft flyovers, STEM Expo for kids of all ages, and the annual Conquer the Bridge Labor Day 5.3-mile walk/run over the Vincent Thomas Bridge.

Exchange LA

88/11 Labor Day Party Exchange LA 618 S. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Formerly the Los Angeles Stock Exchange, Exchange LA pays homage to its rich and opulent Art Deco past. After nearly two years of delicate renovations and retrofitting, Exchange LA opened as a vibrant venue that not only functions as a nightclub, but also as an event space for award shows, premiere parties, corporate events, fashion shows, film shoots and charity galas. Featuring multiple rooms, seven full service bars, state of the art lighting, sound, and a colossal LED screen display, this ornate venue sits in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles’ booming art and entertainment scene.

Shoot the Moon! Where to Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Lunar Landing

In 1969, NASA launched its most daring mission – sending astronauts to land on the moon and returning them safely home. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the lunar surface, and cultural attractions across LA are celebrating one of humanity’s greatest achievements.

Apollo 11 Show

APOLLO 11- The Immersive Live Show Rose Bowl 1001 Rose Bowl Drive Pasadena, CA 91103

Apollo 11 is a ground-breaking new show with an original story inspired by the Apollo missions. The show is performed by cast of 20 and presented in the spectacular custom-built theatre, the Lunar Dome, with 40,000 square feet of 360 degree video projections, and props that simulate a rocket launch, including a life-size re-creation of the lunar landing module. This truly immersive experience tells the story of the moon landing from the perspective of the 400,000 people who worked together to put astronauts on the moon and bring them safely home.

California Science Center

Apollo 11: First Steps Edition California Science Center 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037

Fasten your seat belts and get ready to be lifted off to the moon in this adrenaline-filled, immersive experience on the California Science Center 7-story IMAX screen! In this special giant-screen edition of Todd Douglas Miller’s critically acclaimed Apollo 11 documentary, created exclusively for science centers and museum theaters, the filmmakers reconstruct the exhilarating final moments of preparation, liftoff, landing and return of this historic mission—one of humanity’s greatest achievements and the first to put men on the Moon.  With a newly-discovered trove of never-before-seen 70mm footage and audio recordings, Apollo 11: First Steps Edition joins Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins, the Mission Control team and millions of spectators around the world, during those momentous days and hours in 1969 when humankind took a giant leap into the future.

hollywood bowl

America in Space Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Aug. 15 In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, conducted by David Newman, presents “America in Space.” Hear how Hollywood’s composers have been inspired by the achievements of American space travel. A mix of music, film clips, and archival footage will tell the story of our push to explore beyond Earth’s atmosphere, from the thrill of the space race to the possibility of missions to Mars. Experts from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena will join the orchestra to underscore the impact of California’s scientists and engineers on our achievements in space.

Winslow Garage

Yesterday’s Tomorrowland Today Winslow Garage 3540 Winslow Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Get ready for a Retro-Rocket Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing! Yesterday’s Tomorrowland Today is a group show that explore the hopes and shattered dreams of postwar America’s ‘Atomic Age’ and how that legacy affects us today. The exhibtion features xerox artwork (both new and vintage) by West Coast alumni of Club 57, the infamous neo-Dada performance/art space that existed in New York’s East Village from 1978-1983, and was the subject of a recent retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art. Many of the artists featured in this new show, including the curators, had work in the MoMA exhibit which also highlighted the early careers of Kenny Scharf and Keith Haring.

columbia memorial space center

Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Columbia Memorial Space Center 12400 Columbia Way Downey, CA 90242

View the newest exhibit about the Apollo 11 program on display at the Columbia Memorial Space Center. The exhibit highlights the important contributions that Southern California made to getting us to the moon! Presented through the generous support of Aerojet-Rocketdyne. The Columbia Memorial Space Center (CMSC) is a science museum owned and operated by the City of Downey, California. The site of the museum is the former Boeing/Rockwell/North American plant where all of the Apollo Command/Service Modules were built and the Space Shuttle was conceived.

Apollo 11 NASA

Apollo 11 Alumni Talk LA Central Library Central Library 650 W. 5th Street Los Angeles, CA 90071

Sept. 22 The Columbia Memorial Space Center is visiting various branches of the LA Public Library with activities tied to the Apollo program. Join a panel of distinguished former aerospace professionals from the Apollo era, eager to share their recollections, from the personal to the professional. These are the people who designed and built the spaceships that took us to the Moon! Hear the story of humanity’s greatest technical achievement from those who made it happen. This discussion, which will be held in the Taper Auditorium, will be moderated by the President and Executive Director of the Columbia Memorial Space Center, Ben Dickow.

JPL

JPL Free Public Tours Jet Propulsion Laboratory 4800 Oak Grove Drive Pasadena, CA 91109

The JPL Public Services Office offers tours free of charge for groups and individuals on an advance reservation basis. Visitor parking is also available free of charge. All tours commonly include a multimedia presentation on JPL entitled “Journey to the Planets and Beyond,” which provides an overview of the Laboratory’s activities and accomplishments. Guests may also visit the von Karman Visitor Center, the Space Flight Operations Facility, and the Spacecraft Assembly Facility. For tour schedule call (818) 354-9314 or email tour.reservation@jpl.nasa.gov

CalTech Live

CalTech Live! California Institute of Technology 1200 E California Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91125

For over 50 years, Caltech’s public events program has offered the Caltech family and the community at large a gateway to world-class scientists, artists, and speakers, making the Institute one of Southern California’s acknowledged cultural centers. CaltechLive! offers top-flight events at multiple locations on campus, including science lectures, performing arts, folk music, and chamber music. As part of its commitment to being an active institutional citizen, Caltech provides multiple outreach programs that benefit students, educators, community partners, local businesses, local government, and campus neighbors. Each collaboration Caltech undertakes with community members is driven by the individual engagement of participants from Caltech. Their personal passion is the key ingredient to the history and traditions that distinguish Caltech’s presence in the community.

Get Ready For Summer! LA’s Best Food, Festivals & Fun Things To Do

Summer in the city has arrived! With balmy nights, idyllic afternoons, and lazy weekends ahead, LA has got you covered! From free concerts to food festivals, night markets, and cultural events, get ready for the best summer yet!

FIG Fest

FIGFest Fig at 7th 735 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90017

Celebrating its seventh year as one of DTLA’s best free music series, FIGFest will once again transform FIGat7th’s outdoor Plaza into an urban concert venue brought to life with performances by leading rock, hip-hop, pop, soul, dance, and electronic artists. Every Friday in June from 6pm-11pm. Free & All Ages.

row dtla

Market at The Terminal The ROW  777 Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Curated and produced by Local LA at ROW DTLA, Market at the Terminal is a great way to spend a summer Saturday! This fun day-time event presents over 50 vendors; beer, wine & spirits garden; live music; and pop-up food & dessert trucks. Second Saturdays: June 8, July 13, August 10, September 14.

Noir Night

Noir Night – The Last Book Store 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

June 11 Join local authors Doug Cooper, Erik Tarloff, Frank Strausser, Sean Carswell, Gary Phillips (The Obama Inheritance), and Phoef Sutton for a night of quintessential LA noir mystery. Authors will be presenting their own work as well answering any and all noir questions. Sponsored by The Last Bookstore in cooperation with Prospect Park Books and Rare Bird Lit.

LA Beer Week

LA Beer Week Various locations

June 15-23 L.A. Beer Week was founded in 2009 by a group of dedicated beer enthusiasts and community members. Entering its 11th year in 2019, L.A. Beer Week will be produced by the Los Angeles County Brewers Guild, an 80+ brewery strong non-profit organization dedicated to fostering the culture of LA beer. LA Beer Week will feature an L.A. Brewers Beer Week Kickoff festival at Los Angeles Center Studios on Saturday, June 15th, which will be the flagship to a week’s worth of great events all throughout the City of Angels. Calendar of events here.

Hollywood bowl

KCRW World Festival at The Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Kicks off June 16 Now celebrating its 20th season at the Bowl, KCRW’s World Festival presents cutting-edge artists making music on a global scale.The popular collaboration between KCRW and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association features your favorite hosts, including Jason Bentley, Ann Litt, Garth Trinidad, with the LA Phil conducted by Gustavo Dudamel.

Good Food Gala

Good Food Gala Vibiana 214 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

June 20 Join the Los Angeles Food Policy Council for their biannual fundraiser, the Good Food Gala at the spectacular Vibiana in downtown Los Angeles. Celebrate Southern California’s bounty with craft cocktails and tastings by the region’s finest chefs and farmers, as DJ Raul Campos of KCRW spins soulful, fresh sounds into the summer night and Eddie Zamora, Founder of The Yum Yum Foodie and TV host of Dinner Takes All, wows as Master of Ceremonies. All star chefs include Neal Fraser of Redbird, Mary Sue Milliken of Border Grill, Jimmy Shaw of Loteria Grill, Shruti Raychull Patel and Jose Vazquez of Eastside Eats, Bret & Lucy Thompson of Pez Cantina, and more. All proceeds benefit the Los Angeles Food Policy Council, and support their mission to ensure food is healthy, affordable, sustainable and fair for all Angelenos.

Leviit

50 Free Concerts – Levitt Pavilion MacArthur Park 2230 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90057

This summer, Angelenos can escape the routine bustle of the city and retreat to Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles for a jam-packed season of 50 free concerts! Entering its 13th year, Levitt LA transforms MacArthur Park into a sonically-charged urban oasis presenting free, live music under the stars with award-winning and emerging artists. The electrifying 2019 lineup features more internationally touring performers than ever before and spotlights LA’s own superstar talent across a wide range of music genres including Latin, indie, rock, R&B, soul, ska, Afrobeat and many more.

Tacotopia

Tacotopia Third Street Promenade 1254 3rd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Tacotopia is a larger than life playground presented by Cholula Hot Sauce, a hybrid amusement park and Taco Festival all rolled up into a funky, Tacotastic, immersive exhibit.The imaginative experience is fun for all ages, and for all the non-taco lovers out there, if that exists, there are plenty of swoon worthy photo opportunities throughout the exhibit that aren’t tacocentric. The space features more than twenty-five unique environments with larger-than-life installations ranging from the Goddess of Tacos to an oversized bowl of Guac.

Little Tokyo Night Market

Little Tokyo Night Market Aratani Theater Plaza 320 E. 2nd Street Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Little Tokyo Night Market is held every Thursday night in the heart of Little Tokyo. The event features music, cultural performances, artists, crafters, antiques, collectibles and of course FOOD! Lots and lots of food. The perfect place to spend a balmy summer evening in the city!

Pop the Cork! Celebrate New Year’s Eve in DTLA

Got plans for New Year’s Eve? DTLA is bubbling with great ways to celebrate–from sophisticated enbtertainment and swanky soirèes, to epic dance parties and decadent dinners. You can even take a ride on the Skyslide atop LA’s tallest building, if you dare!

So get ready to ring in 2019, and make it the best year yet!

Prohibition crowd photo

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

For its 7th year, Prohibition NYE will return to the majestic Ticket Concourse at Union Station, with all the excitement and glamour of the Roaring Twenties. Experience theatrical burlesque, live jazz ensembles, a headlining DJ set, and a premium open bar featuring champagne and specialty cocktails. Don’t miss Prohibition NYE’s signature 60 foot, midnight ball-drop celebration! Limited early bird tickets are available for $160. General Admission tickets will be offered at $185. Prohibition NYE also offers a limited number of VIP tables featuring a private entrance, hostess service, and an exclusive, elevated stage-side viewing experience. More information and tickets here.

crowd dancing at Pink Martini Dance Hall

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

Pianist Thomas Lauderdale and Pink Martini, the celebrated “little orchestra,” are featuring a rare joint appearance by singers China Forbes and Storm Large, return for another quintessentially eclectic New Year’s program that mixes the heat of Brazilian samba, party sounds of 30s Cuban dance music, and a dash of Parisian café cool. Pink Martini will make sure you sashay into 2019 in the jazziest way possible. The group plays two sets, ticketed separately, at 7:00 and 10:30. Please note: Street Closure notice for New Year’s Eve LA at Grand Park. Buy tickets here.

NYE party at The Majestic

Massive NYE Party @The Reserve x The Majestic 650 S. Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Say goodbye to 2018 and ring in the New Year with the biggest party Downtown Los Angeles has ever seen! NYE festivities include 3 rooms of music (The Majestic + Reserve Main Room + Reserve Vault); LA’s finest DJ’s playing Hip Hop, RnB, Throwbacks and all your favorite party anthems; open bars; premium bottle service reservations available in each room; Interactive photo booth installations; Champagne toast & epic countdown at Midnight including a balloon drop for each room! Tickets here.

Edison

Edison New Year’s Eve Ball The Edison 108 West 2nd Street #101 Los Angeles, CA 90012

Usher in the New Year at DTLA’s legendary Cathedral of Industry and Imagination. Celebrate Living History as you eperience the past on your journey into the future. Dance to the electric sounds of an amazing band, while aerialists take to the air with their death-defying acts of wonder. Feel the excitement walking with giants while they stilt their way through the crowd. $100. Tickets here.

Skyspace NYE

NYE Party at OUE Skyspace 633 W 5th St. #840 Los Angeles, CA 90071

Hit the heights this New Year’s Eve at LA’s highest venue–OUE Skyspace! Two of LA’s hottest DJs will be spinning your favorite hip-hop and house music all night long, including music by Dre Sinatra! Your first drink of 2019 is on the house with a complimentary Champagne toast when the clock strikes midnight. Your general admission ticket includes: Access to the entire attraction including two outdoor terraces, Tray Passed Hors d’oeuvres for the first hour, Unlimited Skyslide rides until 11:30pm, and Open Bar all-night. Tickets here.

Grand Park

Grand Park + Music Center Present N.Y.E.L.A. 200 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

DTLA’s favorite NYE party returns to Grand Park! Dance your heart out and into 2019 with best friends, sweeties, friendly neighbors, and those cousins from out-of-town at the West Coast’s flagship New Year’s Eve celebration. Live music includes Aloe Blacc, Maya Jupiter, and Georgia Ann Muldrow, and the DJ stage features an all-female lineup.This year, the final moments before midnight will be marked with a 3D digital projection countdown on the west side of City Hall. Attendees are allowed to bring food that fits in a backpack or tote bags, but the event is 100 percent alcohol free, so don’t try to smuggle that flask in your pocket. Free.

LA Live

New Year’s Events at L.A. LIVE 800 Olympic Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90015

If you don’t want to stray too far from home base this New Year’s Eve, L.A. LIVE has tasty parties in different flavors to suit everyone’s style! Bring in the New Year with a laugh at the Katt Williams special NYE comedy show at Nokia Theatre. Join DJ Drew of KIIS FM for Happy Endings NYE Party at Club Nokia. Enjoy a decadent NYE pre fixe menu at LA Market, featuring items like Prime NY Striploin, Mt. Lassen Trout, and Champagne Granite with chocolate dipped grapes. Electrico Carnival New Year’s Eve at the Conga Room presents an amazing Latin event including a VIP 4 course dinner, as well as performers & rhythms in three rooms throughout the night! Celebrate good cheer and ring in the New Year at the Mixing Room, featuring food, drinks, party favors, and live entertainment with Leftover Cuties and DJ Dini.