When people think of Los Angeles, they typically think of laid-back sunny days, swaying palm trees, Hollywood starlets, fashion trendsetters, and an incredible abundance of creativity, mixed with a variety of diverse cultures. And each year, the city hosts dozens of events bringing together people from across the world to celebrate a myriad of interests—ranging from large, well-known sporting events, to legendary music and arts festivals, niche culinary showcases, and massive holiday celebrations. It’s nearly impossible to narrow down, but we’ve put together 24 of the best events and happenings going on in LA this year, each one ideal for those looking to revel in the endlessly unique charm the city offers.
January
January 1, 2025
Pasadena
Fully living up to (and surpassing) expectations for its warm and welcoming reputation (even in wintertime), Pasadena’s annual Tournament of Roses, which takes place on New Year’s Day, has been a tradition since 1890. This legendary event hosts visitors from across the globe to ring in a new year with a vibrant parade teeming with famed florals, action-packed sporting events—and, best of all, balmy weather for a winter’s day (at least, compared to most of the country, anyway). Hundreds of thousands of people attend each year in person, and even more tune in to watch the live broadcast from across the world to watch the event—including the main spectacle, The Rose Parade, which marches nearly six miles down Colorado Boulevard in Old Town, boasting an array of beautifully decorated floats—and The Rose Bowl Game. In 2025 (the event’s 136th year), tune in and experience the unique theme, “Best Day Ever.”
February
February 8, 2025
Chinatown
The Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles hosts a free Golden Dragon Parade each year in celebration of the Lunar New Year in downtown LA’s Chinatown neighborhood. This jovial event has stood the test of time in LA for more than 100 years, dating back to the early 1900s. Today, the event has grown, with more than one hundred thousand attendees traveling from across Southern California to gather together and experience the legendary, vibrant cultural happening. Enthusiastic entertainment includes dancers, marching bands, musical performances, and participation from local leaders and changemakers who create an atmosphere of unity.
March
March 30, 2025
Torrance
When spring has officially sprung across Southern California, it’s time for the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in the South Bay of LA, in Torrance, at Columbia Park. This event celebrates Japanese culture and signifies the arrival of the warm weather with the chance to admire the brightly blooming cherry blossoms. Attendees can enjoy experiencing an array of traditional music and dance performances, browse a lineup of arts and crafts vendors, and taste different types of Japanese food.
April
Apr 11–Apr 20, 2025
Empire Polo Club, Indio
Officially titled The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, this iconic annual happening welcomes 250,000 attendees on three days over two back-to-back weekends in April,at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. Simply known as “Coachella” to most folks, it’s one of the best-known musical events in the world—showcasing an array of the hottest sounds, fashion, entertainment, and of course, the famous (and highly photographed) Ferris wheel—all in one hot spot. Attendees can enjoy an impressive range of musicians, food selections, and art displays amongst the ultimate destination to “see and be seen,” with dozens of celebrities known to be in attendance each year. I’ve been to Coachella twice, and both times, I camped on the festival grounds, which meant I had the best access to the festival at all times of day and night. Sure, it was a more “down to Earth” way to experience the festival (literally and figuratively), but it was totally worth it for the memories I made with my fellow campers (plus, it was more affordable than splurging for a hotel and shuttle pass).
Ready to go? Buy tickets, here.
April 12 & 13, 2025
William S. Hart Park, Old Town Newhall
Just north of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Clarita is known for its harrowed tales from the rush days and as a setting for many classic Western movies, boasting a range of historic sights and an atmosphere of traditional Old West charm. Its annual Cowboy Festival is a free two day event that pays homage to Los Angeles County’s Western heritage at William S. Hart Park. The event is meant to offer attendees an in-person experience of what life was like in the Old West. Listen to a lineup of more than 15 performances of live music, watch some traditional Western swing dancing, go shopping through a selection of vintage vendors including Western fashion and jewelry, and participate in activities like hatchet throwing, panning for gold, and tasting traditional Western food options like Dutch oven peach cobbler. “The Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival is so fun!” exclaims local resident and regular festival attendee, Ha’ani Reyes. “It offers an authentic cowboy experience with lively music, delicious food (I love the peach cobbler), and fun hands-on activities like blacksmithing and gold panning.”
April 25, 2025
Downtown Los Angeles
Fiesta Broadway dates back to 1990 as an annual party held in downtown LA celebrating Cinco De Mayo and Latin American culture. Dubbed the “Largest Cinco de Mayo Celebration in America,” this enormous street festival features a variety of music, traditional folkloric displays, dancing, culinary opportunities, and art showcasing the broad variety of cultures that make Los Angeles unique. Even though Cinco de Mayo technically falls on the date of May 5, Fiesta Broadway has traditionally been held on the last Sunday in April. Over time, the event has evolved to include a range of communities that reflect the true spirit of this diverse city. Don’t miss the Cinco de Mayo parade that winds through historic downtown Los Angeles featuring an array of colorful floats, talented musical performances, traditional dancers, and more.
April 26 & 27, 2025
USC campus, Downtown Los Angeles
Known as “the nation’s largest literary event,” this free, annual happening takes over nearly the entire 226-acre USC Campus just south of downtown LA each April and is a book and literature lovers’ dream come true. The festival dates back to 1996—its original goal was simply to “bring together the people who create books with the people who love to read them”—and has since evolved to encompass a range of educational entertainment for all ages and interests. Today, the event annually brings together more than 150,000 people from across the US, who can attend one-on-one conversations with authors, listen to a range of interesting discussions and panels, hear readings done personally by famed favorite authors, listen to musical performances, and watch one-of-a-kind TV and moving screenings all in one place.
April 25–27, 2025
Empire Polo Club, Indio
After the glitz and glam of Coachella subsides, Stagecoach takes the (horse and buggy?) reins on the grounds at the Empire Polo Club in Indio for a three day weekend festival featuring the best in country music and cowboy culture. It's the world's largest country music showcase, known to consistently highlight the best voices in country music over a rowdy weekend with a variety of fun food, beverages, and honky tonk entertainment.
Ready to go? Buy tickets, here.
TBD April 2025
Downtown Los Angeles
This annual event in downtown Los Angeles features more than 80 breweries serving up a variety of 200 beers alongside a dozen of the city’s favorite food trucks. It’s a craft brew fanatic and foodie’s paradise, with entertainment ranging from live bands and DJ performances, in a 21+-only space offering craft brew lovers the opportunity to explore and experience LA’s wide range of local craft beer options.
May
May 2–26, 2025 (closed Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays except Memorial Day)
LA County Fairgrounds, Pomona
In 1922, The LA County Fair was born as a humble event on a 43-acre beet and barley field. Today, it has grown to welcome more than 700,000 visitors over the course of its two week run, celebrating the incredible mix of cultures and communities of LA. Attendees can enjoy concerts and performances from big-name music artists, agricultural programming, educational exhibits, and both classic and creative fair food options (think: everything ranging from indulgences like turkey legs and funnel cake to Southern California-specific staple food brands, such as past features like Afters Ice Cream and King Taco). There’s also a carnival with classic fair rides and sensory accessibility-friendly accommodations and entertainment for those seeking a less potentially overstimulating environment. This is the largest county fair I’ve ever attended; with so many different types of rides and entertainment as well as the most interesting food options I’ve seen at any county fair. Plus, for those who don’t want to drive to the event, the regional railway system, Metrolink, usually makes a special stop right at the fair grounds on select dates—as well as a Weekend Day Pass option for just $10 and a Kids Ride Free on Weekends offer that can’t be beat.
Ready to go? Get tickets, here.
TBD May 2025
Redondo Beach
BeachLife Festival takes place in the legendary surfer’s paradise, Redondo Beach, right on the coast. The festival was established in 2019 and, since its inception, has transformed into an annual event hosting some of the biggest name artists in the world, including Willie Nelson, Gwen Stefani, Ziggy Marley, Jack Johnson, Sheryl Crow, and the Steve Miller Band, just to name a few. BeachLife will take place again in May of 2025, with a range of entertainment options—including music, culinary experiences, and more amongst a classically chill California atmosphere that’s meant for cultivating positive vibes and enjoying good times.
June
LA Pride Month Musical Performances, Parade, and Block Party
June 2025
Various locations
LA Pride month is one of the largest Pride celebrations in the world and features many activities and celebrations to engage in — many of which are free. This enormous, annual celebration of LGBTQ+ voices takes place in June, encompassing a variety of events across the Greater LA area including a parade in Hollywood, a music festival in West Hollywood, and a massive concert in downtown LA — among many other inclusive festivities. One event not to be missed event during the month is the OUTLOUD Music Festival at WeHo Pride, which showcases a lineup of both up-and-coming and well-known queer artists (past performers include the likes of Kylie Minogue, Kesha, Janelle Monáe, and Diplo among others). There’s also Pride in the Park in downtown LA, an event that features 20 acres of activities, exhibitors, and vendors, including participation and activations from some of LA’s professional sports teams — as well as a dedicated sober space. And attendees can’t miss Pride in the Park’s lineup of award-winning musical artists (previous headliners include Ricky Martin, Mariah Carey, and Megan Thee Stallion). From my experience, LA’s Pride celebration is one of the most lively feel-good happenings that takes place in the city, all year. I recommend dressing up in a fun costume, getting to the events early, and bringing plenty of sunscreen and water — because it’s a long, (fun) day of celebrating the inclusivity and authenticity of the Los Angeles community.
Ready to go? Learn more, here.
July
July 4, 2025
Hollywood
It’s not summertime without the annual fireworks show and Independence Day celebration at the iconic Hollywood Bowl. This event is known as “one of Southern California’s most beloved summertime traditions” and always features a classy lineup of legendary artists, such as past performers The Beach Boys (2023) and Harry Connick, Jr. (2024), amongst the Hollywood Bowl’s beautiful, open-sky, fresh air outdoor setting.
TBD July 2025
Across Greater LA
This celebration of all LA culinary goodness showcases some of the best and brightest restaurants across Greater Los Angeles. The event typically happens twice a year for 12 days and features hundreds of restaurants that vary in cuisine and flavors. Participating establishments host specialized prix fixe menus for reduced prices to offer people the chance to enjoy a special dining experience and try a variety of local restaurant destinations. I’ve taken advantage of Dine LA every time it happens because it’s a great way to try many different popular restaurants and eat tasty food that is typically out of my price range. I highly recommend making a reservation instead of walking in, since it gets pretty busy.
August
August 3 & 4, 2024
Inglewood
HARD Summer takes place annually over two days at Hollywood Park on the grounds adjacent to SoFi stadium. This edgy electronic music festival first debuted in 2008, and over the past nearly two decades, has become an integral event of the Southern California festival scene, showcasing a wide variety of music types that highlight the city’s diversity of talent and entertainment styles. It’s the type of festival that showcases existing talent and up-and-coming artistry, proud to go out on a limb and experiment in the name of music to forge a path with both new fans and an existing, loyal base of bassheads.
Ready to go? Get tickets, here.
August 10–18, 2024
Little Tokyo
This annual nine-day cultural event dates back to 1934, celebrating the legacy of Japanese American culture and history in downtown Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo (one of only three existing Japantowns left in the United States). The celebration includes a festival queen and court, a grand parade, local food vendors, and cultural entertainment. "My favorite events during the Nisei Week Japanese Festival are Coronation and the Grand Parade, which take place during the first weekend, and Plaza Festival and the ondo street dancing, which are both during the second weekend,” says volunteer, board member, and annual attendee, Sara Hutter. “This year's theme of ‘Connection’ truly celebrates what makes this festival and our community so special."
Ready to go? Learn more, here.
September
September 2024
Venice
This cost-free, massive street fair is known as one of LA’s largest single-day events, hosting over 150,000 attendees annually, bringing together folks from across SoCal to experience Venice’s eclectic energy along the 3/4 mile stretch of Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Attendees can enjoy a range of tasty food and drink, explore immersive art activities, listen to talented entertainers, and enjoy getting to know members of their community in a classic, laid-back Los Angeles setting. This was one of the first events I attended after moving to Los Angeles, and it was such a wonderful way to check out a range of local artisans and spend some time on one of the most fun streets in Los Angeles exploring.
Ready to go? Learn more, here.
October
October 3, 2024
West Hollywood
The renowned, rambunctious West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval takes place each year on the evening of October 31, holding the title as one of the “world's largest Halloween street parties.” Dating back to 1987, the event has grown each year but remains free to attend, and is a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Today, the massive event shuts down Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, drawing tens of thousands of people from across Southern California decked out to the nines in the most fabulously elaborate costumes. It’s an all-ages festival that features fun, live entertainment, music, food trucks, and more. This is one of my favorite events I’ve attended during my time living in Los Angeles. It’s a huge, joyful party in the street with a myriad of the most creative costumes I’ve ever seen—pure fun. I recommend taking a rideshare to and from this event because parking is nearly impossible and traffic is awful (yes, more awful than usual LA traffic) with the street shut down.
October 4–6, 2024
Downtown Los Angeles
This multi-day, family-friendly event is known to be one of the largest independent conventions in America, celebrating all things comics, gaming, cosplay, anime, and pop culture at the L.A. Convention Center, downtown. The convention dates back to 2011, but since its original inception it’s gone through several iterations of branding, first primarily featuring local artists, and today growing to also feature a great variety of entertainment and pop culture offerings. But no matter how much it’s changed over the years, the festival (which is often described as a convention "by fans, for fans”) has always brought together millions of people and is championed for actively using attendee feedback to mold programming for the year’s next convention.
Ready to go? Get tickets, here.
October 20, 2024
Calabasas
It’s not autumn in Greater LA without the annual Calabasas Pumpkin Festival, which commemorates more than 200 years of harvest history in the form of everything pumpkin. From pumpkin and harvest goodies for sale in the marketplace (which features more than 75 vendors), to pumpkin-themed bites and beer, pumpkin carving, pumpkin painting, and of course, the impressive pickings in the pumpkin patch. There are also inflatable rides and games, car displays, and a range of educational harvest entertainment, on-site.
Ready to go? Get tickets, here.
October 26, 2024
Hollywood
Every year on the last Saturday before November 2, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery hosts a gathering on its grounds to celebrate Dia de Los Muertos (which translates in Spanish to “Day of the Dead). This traditional holiday is celebrated to honor ancestors who have passed and temporarily bring them back to the land of the living by lifting the veil between the worlds of the dead and living so that families can temporarily reunite. Tens of thousands of attendees come from around the world (most dressed up in elaborate costumes), to spend an exceptionally “spirited” day in this storied landmark destination which is known as one of the most historic cemeteries in the US. Watch as hundreds of Aztec ritual dancers showcase their talent, listen to the performances of Grammy Award-winning recording artists taking over five stages, and admire the 100 plus artistic altars covering the cemetery, which have been created in memorial of the deceased. There are also food vendors from across the region selling their delicacies as well as craft vendors showcasing their work. It’s a special experience to be a part of, and the largest Dia de Los Muertos celebration in the United States.
November
November 22–December 1, 2024
Downtown Los Angeles
Angelenos are proud to argue their home is “the car capital of the world,” and each year, the L.A. Auto Show showcases the city’s powerful influence, bringing together hundreds of thousands of car enthusiasts at the L.A. Convention Center for a 10 day event featuring all things automobile. The event dates back to 1907 when with just 99 vehicles, and today has grown to take over more than 760,000 square feet of exhibit space featuring the works of numerous international and domestic automakers. Attendees can experience activities like indoor and outdoor test drives and admire exhibits like celebrity car collections among other one-of-a-kind happenings.
Ready to go? Get tickets, here.
December
December 1, 2024
Hollywood
Each year for nearly a century, Tinseltown has lived up to its glittery name, ushering in the Yuletide spirit of the season with a huge Hollywood Christmas Parade. What started off humble has today grown into a large-scale celebration on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, running for three miles along Hollywood Boulevard, Orange Street, Vine Street, and Sunset Boulevard. Attendees can admire a collection of floats, vintage cars, music and dancers, and of course, plenty of celebrity presence (including the holiday's biggest celebrity—Santa Clause, himself!). Viewers can purchase tickets to watch from the grandstand, or just take advantage of free viewing along the sidewalks on most of the route.
BONUS: Fabulous cultural film festivals
Los Angeles is famous for its movie culture — but in addition to the classic blockbuster films shown on the silver screen across the world, there are an abundance of important multicultural film festivals hosted in Los Angeles each year that showcase the diverse talent deserving of praise for artistry and storytelling. The Pan African Film Festival hosted each February is “dedicated to the promotion of Black stories and images through the exhibition of film, visual art, and other creative expression.” The Santa Monica Film Festival in February showcases a variety of award-winning, independent works from across the globe through in-person screenings in sunny Santa Monica, and virtually. February’s Slamdance film festival, known as a festival that’s "by filmmakers for filmmakers,” was originally founded in 1995 by a group of filmmakers who were unable to get their films into Sundance — and until February of 2025, the happening has taken place in Park City alongside Sundance — but it’s since relocated to Los Angeles to make the event more accessible. The Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival held annually in late May is dedicated to spotlighting and elevating the diverse voices of the Latino community. And the Asian World Film Festival in November celebrates and recognizes the talent of filmmakers across Asia and by Asian/Asian-American/Multiracial-Asian creators from across the globe.
Molly O'Brien is a Western US-based freelance writer and editor who enjoys covering unique stories about outdoorsy adventures and hospitality. Find her drinking something "brewed" at a coffee shop or brewery, hiking, or traveling somewhere new. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter, and reach out tohellomollyannobrien@gmail.comto connect.
