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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

Where to Eat in LA Now!

This January, Los Angeles is an epicurean paradise, with tempting food festivals, enticing expos, and scrumptious special events to satisfy every craving! Check out restaurants you’ve been dying to try – at an affordable price – during dineLA Restaurant Week. Feeling adventurous? Discover our city’s hidden gems on a secret food tour! Satisfy your sweet tooth at a donut fest, or shop for fresh produce at the largest weekly open-air food market in Los Angeles. Getting hungry? Let your appetite be your guide and discover where to eat in LA now!

dineL.A. Restaurant Week Various locations

Jan 17-31 dineL.A. Restaurant Week is a 15-day dining event that takes place twice a year and showcases Los Angeles as a premier dining destination while highlighting the diversity of culinary experiences L.A. has to offer. Enjoy special lunch and dinner menus at more than 400 restaurants. There are no tickets or passes required for dineL.A. Restaurant Week. Simply dine out at a participating restaurant, ask for the dineL.A. Restaurant Week menu, and try a new dish or enjoy an old favorite. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.

Japanese Food Expo Loews Hollywood Hotel 1755 N Highland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90028

Jan 25 The Japanese Food Culture Association welcomes you to this year’s Japanese Food Expo, where authentic food, Japanese culture and fun all come together! This year brings back the fan favorite Sake Alley, as well as a showcase of Japan’s premium foods you can only experience at the Japanese Food Expo! You’ll meet a number of representatives from various prefectures so you can see and taste their exquisite food creations currently sold only in Japan! For those of you who prefer Japanese street-style food, you’ll find plenty to taste, such as ramen, curry, sushi and more. Japan House seeks to foster awareness and appreciation for Japan by showcasing the very best of Japanese art, design, gastronomy, innovation, technology, and more.

Donut Fest LA Indie Brewing Company 2350 Sunrise St. Los Angeles, CA 90023

Jan 26 Love Donuts? Who doesn’t? Enjoy beer? Us too – so get ye to LA’s sweetest bash at Indie Brewing Co. Donut Bash curates donuts and guests can enjoy a Sunday Funday while sampling donuts, enjoying beer, coffee and more with a fun-filled tasty event! While you’re munching away, can help Donut Fest name LA’s Favorite Donut!

LA Magazine Top 10 Best New Restaurants Rolling Greens Nursery 1005 Mateo St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Jan 28 Los Angeles magazine salutes the city’s most appetizing openings of the past year with the annual Best New Restaurants Celebration. Enjoy tastes from the Top 10 Best New Restaurant honorees past and present, meet the chefs, enjoy experiences from INFINITI, sip brews from Stella Artois, and creative cocktails from Maker’s Mark, listen to live tunes, and more.

Taco Tour by LA Cycle Tours

Nothing says Los Angeles more than its taco stands and taco trucks! To an average Angelino, a taco stand is not an unusual sight – there are tons of taco stands and trucks through out the city, many that get overlooked and most people never knew existed. LA Cycle Tours will guide you on a taco tour that will take your body and taste buds on an unforgettable ride to some of LA’s hidden gems. You will ride through different neighborhoods, historic sites, and stop at various taco stands and trucks so you can experience one of LA’s most popular on the go foods.

Dumpling Pop Up Museum ROW DTLA 757 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

LA’s first dumpling pop-up art exhibit! Thirst Project is teaming up with ZJZM, a creative art label, to bring you Dumplings & Associates, a one of a kind pop-up art museum in DTLA. Explore interactive art installations based on dumplings and their associates, including a giant garlic swing, an anti-gravity kitchen, dumpling jacuzzi and a simulated meat grinder. You may not actually be able to eat the dumplings, but each pair of tickets to Dumplings & Associates provides three people one year of clean drinking water!

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

Smorgasburg reopens for 2020 with a fresh batch of vendors! Launched in June of 2016, Smorgasburg LA has become the largest weekly open-air food market in Los Angeles, attracting 8,000 to 12,000 attendees every Sunday, year round. Located on the five-acre site of the weekday 7th Street Produce Market in ROW DTLA, Smorgasburg LA features over 90 food vendors, a beer garden offering local craft beer and micheladas, live DJs, cultural events, pop-ups, and sophisticated shopping including design, craft, style, vintage, wellness, and more. Every Sunday 10am – 4pm. Sorry, no pets allowed.

Market Market at ROW DTLA 777 Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

MARKET MARKET at ROW DTLA kicks off! This curated market of makers and merchants was created exclusively for ROW DTLA and will highlight the very best in food, beverage, pantry, handcrafted jewelry, apparel, accessories, apothecary, well-edited vintage and more. Grab your market basket and come on down every other Saturday through March 21st to celebrate community, modern craft and local trade.

Secret Food Tours Los Angeles

Los Angeles is known as the “Creative Capital of the World,” so it’s no surprise that the city has long been at the forefront of food invention and adaptation, with many dishes that have become staples across the country. As we explore the downtown area, you’ll be able to feel each individual influence from around the world, from Mexico, to the Far East, discovering the diverse cuisine that has evolved over generations to create some of the finest dishes in the city. Secret Food Tours was founded by Angeleno foodies who have made it their goal to showcase Los Angeles’ incredibly delicious and unique food scene.

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!

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).

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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 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 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.

Get Your Gemütlich Game On! Oktoberfest is Here!

We’re all hopped up for Oktoberfest! But did you know that Oktoberfest in Munich actually starts in September and ends in early October? Here’s a bit of history: The first Oktoberfest was celebrated in Munich on October 12, 1810 in honor of Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. After such a spectacular party, the happy couple decided that the same type of festival should be continued annually. Eventually the date was moved forward into September, primarily because of the chilly Bavarian weather. So don your dirndls, lace your lederhosen, and get ready to oom pah pah! Oktoberfest is here!

Alpine Village 833 W Torrance Blvd. Torrance, CA 90502

A little slice of Bavaria in sunny Southern California, Alpine Village was established in 1968 as a destination for shopping, dining and entertainment, and has been the home of the oldest and biggest Oktoberfest celebration in Southern California for over 50 years. Traditional Bavarian fun is supplied by Oom Pah Pah party bands, your appetite will sated by traditional German fare, and your thirst quenched by frothy German beers brewed by Paulaner. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Alpine Village Imports Market, featuring a huge array of German foods and interesting alcoholic beverages like Goldschläger, a Swiss cinnamon schnapps with real gold flakes floating inside.

Wurstküche DTLA 800 E. 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Enjoy the Oktoberfest zeitgeist all year around at Wurstküche! Known as a purveyor of rare and exotic grilled sausages – from rabbit to rattlesnake – this popular joint also offers more mainstream meats such as Bratwurst, Bockwurst, Hot Italian sausage, Polish Kielbasa, and Louisiana Hot Links. Other indulgences include Belgian Fries (topped with White Truffle Glaze, if you dare to go there), Double Dipped Fries with your choice of sauce, and a very naughty Toasted Apple Pie Ice Cream Sandwich on oatmeal raisin cookies. Expect an extensive selection of draft and bottle beers from Belgium Germany, US and UK, along with a nice wine list. For a special treat, try a palate-cleansing, digestion-promoting Eau de Vie, such as the German favorite Underberg, or some fruitier fixes such as Blume Marillen Apricot, Kirschwasser (dry cherry brandy) or Pear Williams Purkhart.

LA Oktoberfest Millennium Biltmore Hotel 506 South Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Hoist your steins and hightail it to LA Oktoberfest. This fun festival features traditional food, an assortment of craft beers served by dirndl-donning beer maidens. lively tunes, and sing-alongs of old time drinking songs. LA Oktoberfest offers a vareity of ticket choices, so you can participate however you want. You can choose a 2 or 4 hour pass that includes a Glass Stein and unlimited refills for the whole event. If you like to do it in style then grab either a 2 or 4 hour pass, get your souvenir glass stein and unlimited refills! The location also offers Pretzels for sale. Valet Parking is available and Overnight Accommodations are offered at a special rate. Overnight accommodations include 2 complimentary VIP tickets to the LA Oktoberfest.

Uberfest! Oktoberfest at Brouwerij West 110 East 22nd Street Los Angeles, CA 90731

The most entertaining Oktoberfest in America comes to San Pedro! Oompah meets rock n’ roll as you fill up on mouth-watering sausages, pretzels, desserts and of course, beer. Festmeister Hans & Die Sauerkrauts Oompah will take the stage with Heino & Gretel, along with amazing song and dance leaders. Brouwerij West is brewing up a special Überfest beer for this occasion – BOOM BRAU – which will only be available this one time. Brouwerij West will also be pouring a limited selection of some of their favorite beers during the fest!

CraftoberFest Rose Bowl Stadium 1001 Rose Bowl Drive Pasadena, CA 91103

CraftoberFest Los Angeles is the premier Oktoberfest celebration of the season! With over 20 carefully curated craft breweries from the Southern California area, this food and drink festival will provide each guest with a delicious experience influenced by the world’s largest “Volksfest” (beer festival) in Germany. First-class restaurants will serve traditional and fan favorite foods influenced by this internationally loved holiday. Don’t miss out on your chance to spend the day on The Greens at the Rose Bowl Stadium, while delighting in some of the best beer and food Los Angeles has to offer.

Octubrefest Smorgasburg LA 777 South Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA, 90021

Move over Oktoberfest, Smorgasburg LA is bringing you Octubrefest on Sunday, October 14. Celebrate LA’s diverse craft beer scene, with a Mexican twist. Ditch the lederhosen and the brats because Octubrefest will feature a selection of Mexican inspired craft beer, Mexican food specials, a selection of different michelada flavors, live DJs, and popup shopping vendors. Popup food vendors will be serving chorizo, Oaxacan sausage and Mexican food specials from the weekly Smorgasburg LA vendors. DJs Metralleta De Oro and friends will be spinning cumbia, latin, funk, 90’s hip hop, r&b & more; a perfect pairing for the craft beer selection.

DTLA Breweries United Fest 101 Cider House 1700 Naud St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Now here’s a great deal for a good cause! On October 13th, DTLA Breweries United Fest brings together some of DTLA’s fave breweries including Mumford, Arts District, Boomtown, Indie, Dry River, Angel City, Karl Strauss, 101 Cider House, and Imperial Western. Your $45 ticket includes unlimited tastings and a commemorative glass. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Food is provided by A’s BBQ. For their safety, no pets or children are allowed.

Fun & Games! DTLA’s Best Festivals, Food & Frolics

We all know that Circa residents love to have fun! And downtown LA is bursting at the seams with amazing things to discover, taste and explore. From pop ups and immersive experiences to exotic food markets, a retro arcade extravaganza, and even a wacky video store in East LA – you’ll never have a dull moment sampling DTLA’s best festivals, food and frolics!

LA Fashion Festival PHYLM Studios 2230 S Main St. Los Angeles, CA, 90007

Sept 20-21 LA Fashion Festival @PHYLM Studios in DTLA is back for its second edition! Themed “Sustainability,” The LAFF 2019 program will include daily screenings of fashion films, workshops, masterclasses, pop-ups, lectures, and stimulating experiences. Located in the heart of DTLA, PHYLM Studios is a warehouse stage dedicated to film, photography, art, set builds and various event types. with 12,000 square feet, 3 stages and 13-foot ceilings.

Union Station Retrocade 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Sept 28 & 29 Retrocade is back by popular demand! Union Station guests can step back in time for the ultimate arcade rewind featuring over 50 cabinet games from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s including fan favorites “Pac Man,” “Donkey Kong,” “Mortal Kombat” and “Street Fighter.” In a spin on classic arcade food, ’80s candy and soft drinks will be available, as well as nachos, popcorn and churros from local favorite Mr. Churro along with beer, wine and specialty-themed cocktails.The arcade experience will be set to the sounds of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s” with retro tracks from a house DJ. Additionally, guests will have the opportunity to experience the future of gaming with demos on four new Polycade cabinets featuring hit titles from both the past and present including “Asteroids,” “SpeedRunners,” “Centipede” and “Broforce.”

Upside Down Beer Festival Globe Theatre Los Angeles 740 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90014

Sept 28 Summer is getting strange in Los Angeles with the Upside Down Beer Festival, inspired by the popular Netflix Show. Guests can enjoy samples of over 20 strange beers including the eggo waffle porter. Enjoy live 80s music from the Supernatural Boys and DJ Eddey Fresh. Explore the dark upside-down basement and beer gardens and try to beat the high scores at our complimentary arcade room. Eat at the waffle shop and wear your best 80s gear.

Everything is Terrible 754 S Atlantic Blvd. East Los Angeles, CA 90022

Ready for something really wacky? Everything is Terrible! is the video and performance collective responsible for some of the internet’s most hilarious and bizarre videos! Culled from the mountains of dead media that have been abandoned by humanity, Everything is Terrible has posted daily re-edits for 11 years. They have also collected over 26,000 Jerry Maguire VHS that will one day live in a permanent pyramid in the desert. Their Jerry Maguire Video Store immersive art installation in Los Angeles was praised by The New York Times, Vice, The Paris Review, and more.

Pinata District 1238 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90021

More than just a place to buy pinatas and party supplies for your next shindig, the Pinata District is a kaleidoscope of street food including birria from Jalisco, pupusas (stuffed flatbreads) from El Salvador, nieve (Mexican sorbet) from Oaxaca, guasanas (Mexican dish consisting of green chickpeas, water and salt) from Michoacan, along with spices, chiles, nute, and a tantalizing array of Latin American candy. While you’re there, make sure you meet some of the market’s more colorful characters, such as the El Churro Boy, El Chapo, the Abuelo of the Corn, and the Cheese Cowboys.

Hello Kitty Pop Up La Plaza Village 555 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

In celebration of Hello Kitty’s 45th Anniversary, Sanrio invites you on a special adventure with Hello Kitty Friends Around the World Tour – a fully immersive, multi-sensory, walk-through experience that takes you around the globe with Hello Kitty and her friends. Explore the 10,000 square foot pop-up as you transport into Hello Kitty’s supercute world and embark on a journey to London, Paris, New York, Honolulu and Tokyo! Finish off your trip at the Baggage Claim gift shop to pick up some souvenirs and commemorate your travels!

ULO Light Leaks ROW DTLA777 Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

ULO (Unidentified Landed Object) is landing at ROW DTLA with three debut “otherworldly” immersive experiences! First to land will be an adaptation of Light Leaks, a mesmerizing festival favorite by world-renowned technology artist Kyle McDonald and Jonas Jongejan, Creative Technologist at Google Creative Lab; curated and produced by NextArt. Light Leaks draws you in with millions of flickering reflections, offering total immersion and transporting you to an abstracted plane built from light, revealing a deeper experience. The secret behind this unique sensation and optical illusion is the artists’ technical wizardry—rather than using projection in its traditional sense, the work is designed by composing 3D functions that capture different properties of space and perception.

Freshen Up! Where to Find the Best Produce in DTLA

Summer heat getting your down? Time to freshen up with a luscious fruit salad, colorful veggie platter, or thirst-quenching agua fresca – a chilled drink made of fresh fruit blended with water, lime juice, and a bit of sweetener. Try your hand at making a soul-satisfying ratatouille, accompanied by a fresh baguette or pane rustica. Or fire up the grill for roasted vegetables, brushed with olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs. The possibilities are endless – from Grand Central Market to specialty grocery stores, weekly farmers markets, and even a fruit-themed pop up – you’ll find a cornucopia of fresh produce in DTLA!

Urban Radish 661 Imperial St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Urban Radish is a family-owned market carrying everything from cereal to hand-cut meats to local berries. This cutely-monikered establishment is also an eatery, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. In addition to their eclectic menu of grills, soups, sandwiches, and salads, their latest offering is fresh sushi, made in-house. The proprietors like to see themselves as curators, creators and matchmakers, serving the community with good food. Indeed, their wine room boasts some 300 labels, with a focus on small producers and organic/biodynamic production at a range of price points (most is under $30).

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

Launched in June of 2016, Smorgasburg LA has become the largest weekly open-air food market in Los Angeles, attracting 8,000 to 12,000 attendees every Sunday, year round. Located on the five-acre site of the weekday 7th Street Produce Market in ROW DTLA, Smorgasburg LA features over 90 food vendors, a beer garden offering local craft beer and micheladas, live DJs, cultural events, pop-ups, and sophisticated shopping including design, craft, style, vintage, wellness, and more. Every Sunday 10am – 4pm. Sorry, no pets allowed.

District Market Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

A downtown landmark since 1917, Grand Central Market, brings together the cuisines and cultures of LA. If you’re shopping for fresh produce, check out District Market, which specializes in organic, sustainable and locally-sourced fruit and vegetables, with an overall emphasis on quality, accessibility and education.

While you’re at Grand Central Market, stop by La Frutería for a refreshing bowl of fresh watermelon, jicama, mango or cucumber, drizzled with a combination of yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, and Mexican crema. These flavorful treats, which originated on street food carts in Mexico, are commonly topped with shredded coconut, raisins, and granola. La Frutería is also the place for the best aguas frescas in town!

Whole Foods Market 788 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Located beneath the Eighth & Grand residences, this expansive 41,000 square foot Whole Foods Market was designed to meet the needs of local residents, professionals and businesses. Features include a juice bar, fresh poke, expanded vegan options in all departments, a coffee bar (with cold brew on tap), and more than 1,000 handpicked wines. Take a break at The Eight Bar, a gastropub located within Whole Foods, and enjoy beers on tap, bar food, wines by the glass, cocktails, and a rotating seasonal menu. The store provides a dedicated Instacart register and on-site storage for home delivery and personal shopping.

World of Fruit 716 N La Brea Ave Los Angeles, CA 90038

World of Fruit is a new fruit-themed experience created by fruit-obsessed Los Angeles natives. Featuring eight fruit-forward rooms, World of Fruit takes guests through an interactive experience that is wholly unexpected and unforgettable. Swing into the Watermelon Playground and grab a special treat from the watermelon ice cream truck. Enjoy the light show in the Pineapple Disco Derby, and jump into the Dragon Fruit Pool before entering the World of Fruit Garden, where fruit specialists serve the very best in-season fruits from all over the world, like jackfruit, baby pineapples, rambutan, tree-ripened mangoes, strawberry papayas, and more!

Certified Farmers Market @Pershing Square 532 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Every Wednesday, Pershing Square Farmers Market, presented in partnership with Raw Inspiration, sells garden fresh fruits, vegetables, and special delicacies. Raw Inspiration’s mission is to educate children and adults on the importance of a healthy diet, especially on the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables daily. To accompany that mission, they have set up a program where growers can distribute their produce at neighborhood farmers markets. In and around Los Angeles, nearly 2,000,000 visitors enjoy Raw Inspiration farmers markets every year.

Historic Core Farmers Market 5th St. (between Broadway and Spring St.) 2 blocks from Pershing Square Station

Historic Core Farmers Market, LA’s newest addition to the DTLA farmers market scene, is held every Sunday from 9AM – 2PM. In addition to fruits and vegetables, you’ll find farm-fresh eggs (free range and sprout-fed); breakfast and brunch items; sweet pastries and empanadas; Mediterranean dips and spreads; flowers and floral arrangements; natural homemade skincare products; and dog food and pooch products. Along with fresh local groceries, there’s a selection of prepared food and drinks including fresh juices and lemonade; coffee; tacos and breakfast burritos; pupusas, barbecue, curry, and much more!

Union Station Train-to-Table Farmers Market Union Station 800 N Alameda St Los Angeles, CA 90012

Union Station has partnered with California Certified Farmers Markets to bring the Train-to-Table Farmers Market to Union Station’s South Patio. Every Thursday from noon – 6pm, the market features a wide array of fresh, local fruits and vegetables as well as fresh-cut flowers, artisanal baked bread, roasted coffee, and a host of small bites for a mid-day snack or dinner on the commute home. Playing to the strengths of the California climate, the historic South Patio opened in 1939 and was designed as a formal garden through which travelers (and often celebrities) exited the station. The expansive patio, featuring towering palm trees and an iconic 100-foot-tall clock tower, has evolved into a vibrant meeting place for Angelenos. The Train-to-Table Farmers Market is part of Union Station’s diverse lineup of unique events, festivals, thought-provoking cultural programs and live music throughout the year.

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!

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.

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 – 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 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.

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 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.

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 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 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!

Calling All Carnivores! Where to Get Your Protein Fix in DTLA

Let’s face it, sometimes you just want to sink your teeth into a juicy burger or succulent steak! Go ahead and indulge your carnivorous cravings. Meat has all the nine essential amino acids you need in order to build and rebuild every cell in your body. A satisfying meat-a-palooza also makes you feel better, by boosting pleasure-inducing dopamine and soothing serotonin.

Whether you prefer a classic burger, hearty Brazilian-style feast, smoky BBQ chow-down, or an elegant steakhouse dinner, you can eat your fill of meaty goodness in DTLA. Meat not your thing, but you still want to tag along with your friends? You’ll never starve in this town! Scan the menu for fresh salads, veggie burgers, healthy sides – and save room for dessert!

Cassell’s Hamburgers DTLA 421 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Fans of Cassell’s Hamburgers in mid-Wilshire have reason to rejoice! Late last year, founders Christian Page, Jingbo Lou, and Elia Aboumrad completed their takeover of the former Pellicola Pizzeria in Downtown LA, conveniently located right next to the iconic Golden Gopher bar. Cassell’s downtown outpost features their renowned patty melt, along with some new menu items, such as chicken cutlet sandwich on ciabatta roll, hoagie with nitrate-free meats and provolone, and ice cream shakes using McConnell’s ice cream.

H&H Brazilian Steakhouse 518 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

H&H Brazilian Steakhouse is a new take on Brazilian food, brimming with healthful recipes. The restaurant was founded by Henrique Huyer with the mission of bringing authentic, traditional Brazilian barbecue from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. to the American market. H&H is committed to working with only the best suppliers, serving top-quality organic, grass-fed meat and local produce that you can enjoy with unique wines from South America. The menu caters to nearly every food preference with a variety of beef, lamb, pork and chicken dishes. The extensive salad bar presents gluten-free, naturally organic, vegetarian and vegan offerings as well.

L.A. Brisket 736 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012

A popular destination originating in Artesia, L.A. Brisket recently opened a spiffy brick-and-mortar location in Chinatown. The restaurant specializes in hand crafted snadwiches loaded with all natural meat sold by the pound, with house BBQ sauce and bread. The menu offers brisket, chicken, pulled pork, pork ribs, and BBQ Bowls served with LA slaw, salsa verde, garlic, and jasmine rice. Sides include elote (grilled Mexican corn), French fries, truffle fries, and sweet potato fries.

Moo’s Craft BBQ at Smorgasburg 787 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Perhaps the best underground barbecue cooking in Los Angeles, Moo’s Craft Barbecue is smoking up a storm every Sunday at Smorgasburg ROW DTLA. The Texas-styled menu includes classics like ribs and brisket, with owners Michelle and Andrew Muñoz at the helm. Launched in June of 2016, Smorgasburg LA has become the largest weekly open-air food market in Los Angeles, attracting 8,000 to 12,000 attendees every Sunday, year round. Located on the five-acre site of the weekday 7th Street Produce Market in ROW DTLA, Smorgasburg LA features over 90 food vendors, a beer garden offering local craft beer and micheladas, live DJs, cultural events, pop-ups, and sophisticated shopping including design, craft, style, vintage, wellness, and more. Sundays, 10 AM – 4 PM. Sorry, no pets allowed.

Love Hour at Smorgasburg 787 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

While you’re at Smorgasburg, be sure to stop by Love Hour – featuring the smash-style patty that has become the new standard for street and backyard pop ups around town. The first permanent burger tent at Smorgasburg, Love Hour offers a minimalist menu comprised of single and double patty smash burgers and fries. The meat is pressed thin and cooked on a grill at a high heat, which sears in the flavor and creates a delicious crusty exterior.

Belcampo Meat Co., butcher shop and restaurant at Grand Central Market, Los Angeles, CA.

Belcampo Meat Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Part country cafe and part full-service butcher shop, Belcampo Meat presents organic, grass-fed meats that have been raised on their own 10,000 acre ranch near Mount Shasta, and custom-butchered in house. Grab a seat at their modern-meets-retro counter service diner for breakfast or lunch. Indulge in the signature organic grass-fed burgers while people watching and enjoying a glass of beer or wine. Or stop by after work to pick up their ever-changing rotation of Grab & Go foods, or convenient reheat & eat options to bring home for dinner.

La Boucherie 900 Wilshire Blvd Fl 71 Los Angeles, CA 90017

Elevate your evening with an unforgettable dinner at La Boucherie at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, which occupies 37 floors of the Wilshire Grand Center. The Wine Spectator award-winning steakhouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles and a delectable menu featuring reimagined dishes, premium steaks, and first-rate seafood sourced from around the globe. The restaurant also features a cheese cave and charcuterie atelier, complemented by offerings from the extensive, award-winning wine list of 1,200 different types, all of which can be enjoyed from the comfort of private dining rooms or discrete Starlight Booths.

Cole’s French Dip 118 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Cole’s, Originator of the French Dip Sandwich, opened in 1908 in the Pacific Electric building. Evoking the spirit of an early 20th century saloon, the welcoming 40-foot Red Car Bar boasts original glass lighting, penny tile floors, and historic photos, preserved in the restoration of the cherished landmark. During Prohibition, Cole’s was a favorite hangout for gangsters like Mickey Cohen (If you were a regular customer, your “coffee” came with a little something extra!). Today, continuing the tradition of the Golden Age of American cocktails, the Red Car Bar’s ample selection of premium spirits, drafts, and historic cocktails compliment the saloon’s classic French Dip sandwiches, appetizers, salads and sides.

Things to Do in DTLA: Fun Frolics & Hidden Gems!

Looking for something different to do in DTLA? Of course there’s the expected slew of restaurant openings, hot new shops, and cool brewpubs––and who’s complaining! But if you stray a bit off the beaten track, you’ll find that our city is teeming with unusual diversions, fun frolics, and hidden gems, just waiting to be discovered.

Two Bit Circus 634 Mateo St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Billing itself as he world’s first Micro-Amusement Park™, Two Bit Circus is an experiential entertainment playspace where fun-seekers of all ages can gather and play. The park promises an ever-changing landscape of immersive entertainment; including multi-person virtual reality, narrative-based escape/story rooms, indie arcades, molecular mixology and liberal use of lasers and robots. As a brand new type of social playspace (Two Bit Circus just opened in September 2018), the venues are also a launchpad for new technologies and aim to bring ideas from designers, inventors, makers, engineers, storytellers and more from concept to reality. Sounds like a blast? Make reservations here.

Escape Room L.A. 120 E 8th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Imagine yourself in a real-life adventure game filled with mysterious puzzles and brain-teasing clues! Escape Room LA. immerses you in a choice of five extraordinary environments, from a 1940’s detective office to a mystifying underground cavern, an ancient Mayan pyramid, an old haunted theatre, or a medieval alchemist’s secret laboratory. Gamers have to solve a series of challenging clues and puzzles and escape before their time runs out! Before the game, friendly Escape Room staffers will review the rules and answer any questions before your countdown to escape begins. Never fear, if you don’t make your way out before time’s up, the door will be unlocked. At the end of your game, the staff will recap your accomplishments and explain how to solve the remaining puzzles inside the room. Plan on spending a total of about 90 minutes from start to finish. Buy tickets here.

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

The Velaslavasay Panorama 1122 West 24th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90007

Drawing on the illustrious history of the great panorama paintings of the 18th and 19th centuries, The Velaslavasay Panorama is an exhibition hall, theatre and garden dedicated to the production and presentation of unusual visual experiences, including those of the 360-degree variety. The Velaslavasay Panorama panoramic exhibition encircles the spectator within a fully enveloping atmosphere; a vast painting of a continuous surrounding landscape, accompanied by sound stimulation and three-dimensional elements, affords the viewer an opportunity to experience a complete sensory phenomenon.

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens 3500 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90018

Need to unwind your mind? Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens was established by the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness as a non-profit center dedicated to peace and spirituality. Called a “Spiritual Oasis in the City,” its purpose is to provide a place for people to take time out of their busy lives to visit, reflect, and be rejuvenated by the peace and solace of nature. The centerpiece of the property is an outdoor stone labyrinth, using the same design as the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth. The spectacular Asian-themed meditation garden presents sixteen water features, a koi pond, and intimate seating areas tucked away to reflect, repose, meditate, while a pergola and courtyard gardens offer additional areas to enjoy. Classes and workshops exploring topics focusing on personal growth and practical spirituality are offered weekly. Complimentary admission here.

Underground L.A. Cartwheel Art Tours

Cartwheel Art Tours pulls back the curtain on LA’s “underground” past, from notorious Prohibition-era murders to infamous speakeasy haunts frequented by the Old Hollywood elite. Tours include a few stops under the busy streets of DTLA to discover a century-old tunnel and speakeasies, alongside more modern interpretations of the city’s hidden watering holes. Based in the DTLA Arts District, Cartwheel Art creates and produces immersive, neighborhood explorations and experiences designed by founder Cindy Schwarzstein, a hands-on active member of the Los Angeles arts community. The tours are offered as an opportunity to engage individuals and groups in art, food and historical adventure, with a focus on supporting local artists and artisan businesses. Buy tickets here.

Velveteria: The Museum of Velvet Art 711 New High St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Velveteria is a velvet painting museum located in Chinatown, curated by owners Caren Anderson and Carl Baldwin. The museum features over 420 paintings culled from the couple’s 3,000 piece collection, gathered from every corner of the world. An ancient technique, velvet painting is thought to have originated in Kashmir, the homeland of the fabric. Traditional paintings were generally religious and portrayed the icons of the Caucasus region. Marco Polo and others introduced black velvet paintings to Western Europe, and some of these early works still hang in the Vatican Museum. In 20th century America, black velvet paintings attained full-on cult status, depicting imagery from pop culture such as the classic “Velvet Elvis.”

Holiday Art Exhibitions, Pop-Ups & Kunsthalles in DTLA

Art exhibitions don’t have to be traditional, and the eclectic DTLA scene proves that point in spades, with festive holiday pop-ups, unique immersive experiences, and the popular Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk, held on the second Thursday of every month. LA is also embracing the European kunsthalle concept. Roughly translated as “art hall,” kunsthalles activate their neighborhoods with provocative programming, are frequently quartered in renovated industrial or historic locations, and offer free admission. The Main Museum, ICA LA, and The Mistake Room are dynamic examples of this exciting new LA trend.

So take a break from your busy holiday prep and explore DTLA’s burgeoning exhibitions, art halls, and pop up museums!

Fa La Land Holiday Pop-Up Museum Row DTLA 787 S. Alameda St. Los Angeles 90021

The most wonderful time of the year deserves a massive celebration! Experience the dazzling lights, jolly sounds and comforting scents of the holiday season like never before at Fa La Land, the world’s most festive pop-up museum! Everything sparkles brighter in this immersive and interactive environment that is crafted to delight both the young and young at heart. Step into an old-fashioned North Pole, help make toys at “Jingle Bell Toy Factory”, get lost in light in a fluorescent “Fa La Forest”, jump in on the action at “Fa La Fest” and get your Christmas list ready for your private audience with the Big Man himself. Choose your preferred dates and purchase tickets here.

The Main Museum 114 W 4th St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Housed within the historic Hellman Building, The Main Museum is a new art hall dedicated to engaging the public with some of the most important ideas of our time, through the lense of Los Angeles artists. The expansive space features high ceilings, original columns and tile-work, and windows looking out to 4th Street. With a residency program at its center rather than a collection, The Main forefronts artists in its work and supports wide-ranging practices from artists at all stages in their careers. Open to the public Wednesday through Sunday from 12 to 7pm when exhibitions are on view. Free admission always.

Couple playing in ball pit at Cheat Day Land

Cheat Day Land 2018 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

The only pop-up musuem dedicated to your favorite cheat meals, Cheat Day Land is a celebration of the foods we all dream about and deserve after a hard week’s workout. This immersive museum lends its energy to the idea of treating yourself with a cheat day-because you deserve it. Cheat Day Land hosts 17 fully immersive, imaginative environments in themes of all your “forbidden” foods-a journey through space and time with the vehicle being your favorite cheat day meals. Your guided tour will be lead by a Cheat Day specialist, who will walk you through all of the exhibits and installations. The museum also offers ideas for balancing a healthy lifestyle which still allows for snacking and occasional guilt-free cheating. Cheat Day Land is partnering with St. Anne’s Org in giving to those in need this holiday season. Bring a new unwrapped toy and receive a 50% discount off regular ticket pricing through December 18th. Buy tickets here.

ICA LA 1717 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

The Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (ICA LA) is a new museum located in Downtown Los Angeles. ICA LA’s revelatory exhibitions of works by international artists, dynamic public programs, and inclusive community partnerships reflect the diversity of Los Angeles and the world, fostering critique of the familiar and empathy with the different. Founded in 1984 as the Santa Monica Museum of Art (SMMoA), ICA LA builds upon a distinguished history of fostering artistic experimentation with bold curatorial choices, and connecting with various communities via timely, meaningful, and engaging public programs. Admission is free.

The Mistake Room 1811 E 20th St. Los Angeles, CA 90058

Established in 2014, The Mistake Room (TMR) operates from a renovated industrial warehouse along the Alameda Corridor at the southernmost edge of Downtown LA’s Arts District. A platform for art, ideas, and practices fueled by radical imagination, TMR works with artists, thinkers and makers from around the world, TMR strives to instigate new ways of being and knowing while transforming how people access, experience, and engage with culture. TMR’s program is organized in rotating curatorial cycles that vary in structure, duration, and thematic focus. Each cycle is conceived as a world in its own right and as such is given shape by unique exhibitionary, experiential, and discursive forms and moments.

Invader Into the White Cube Over the Influence 833 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Over the Influence is thrilled to announce “Into the White Cube,” a survey exhibition celebrating the internationally-renowned French artist known as Invader. Offering an overview of the artist’s achievements from the past two decades, the exhibition features feature his iconic mosaics along side a completely new series and media. One of the most enigmatic and radical living artists of our time, since 1998 he has “invaded” cities and landmarks worldwide, adroitly placing his tiled pieces in the most ubiquitous locations. By highlighting the growing role of technology in our everyday life, Invader forces people to think about the implications of this digital invasion. Marking Invader’s first solo show in Los Angeles since 2005, the exhibition will remain on view through December 23, 2018.