Unmissable events in Los Angeles this August: Music, culture, and more

As the calendar turns to August, Los Angeles comes alive with a plethora of events that cater to diverse interests. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, the city offers a vibrant mix of activities that promise to make this summer unforgettable. Below, we delve into the details of some of the most exciting happenings in Los Angeles this August.

Music and Concerts

Los Angeles is renowned for its dynamic music scene, and August 2024 is no exception. The month kicks off with the *Sizzling Summer Nights at The Autry, held every Thursday. This event features some of LA’s best salsa and Latin fusion bands, offering free salsa lessons and access to museum galleries. Admission is $25 per person.

Sunset Concerts at Skirball continue on August 1, 8, and 16, featuring artists from the Jewish, African, and Cuban diasporas. The concerts are free, with parking ranging from $15 to $20. Similarly, Sunset Concerts in Culver City offer a summer-long series of outdoor concerts every Thursday, showcasing a variety of genres from Latin Music to Rock/Pop.

For classical music enthusiasts, the Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks at the Hollywood Bowl on August 2-3 is a must-see. Conducted by Otto Tausk, the LA Phil will perform selections from Tchaikovsky’s works, culminating in the 1812 Overture. Tickets start at $20.

Cultural Festivals and Family-Friendly Events

August is also a month of cultural celebrations in Los Angeles. The Natsumatsuri Family Festival at the Japanese American National Museum on August 10 offers a day of performances, craft stations, and interactive storytime games, all free of charge. Additionally, the Nisei Week Japanese Festival from August 10-18 in Little Tokyo celebrates Japanese and Japanese American heritage with cultural exhibits, performances, and a grand parade.

For families, the Endless Summer C.A.M.P. in Santa Monica’s Tongva Park provides four weeks of family-friendly entertainment every Saturday from August 3-24. The free programs include world music, dance, puppetry, and animal ambassadors.

The CatVideoFest 2024 from August 3-14 at Vidiots in Eagle Rock is another family-friendly event, showcasing a 73-minute romp of internet cat classics, animations, and music videos. Tickets are $13 for adults.

Outdoor Activities and Sports

Los Angeles’ warm and sunny August weather is perfect for outdoor activities. The AVP Manhattan Beach Open Volleyball Tournament from August 16-18 is a highlight for beach volleyball enthusiasts. The tournament features a star-studded lineup of Olympians and former champions, with general admission free for all.

For those who enjoy a more relaxed pace, the Movies at Warner Park series in Woodland Hills offers free movie screenings every Saturday night in August. Films like “Barbie” and “The Blind Side” will be shown, starting at 7 p.m.

CicLAvia Meet the Hollywoods on August 18 is another exciting event where streets are closed to cars, allowing people to walk, bike, and explore Hollywood Blvd, Highland Ave, and Santa Monica Blvd. This car-free event encourages public activations and is accessible via Metro’s B Line.

Art and Theatre

Theatre and art lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Los Angeles this August. The Independent Shakespeare Co. brings a summer of Bard to Griffith Park with performances of “As You Like It” from July 10 to September 1. The shows start at 7 p.m., with themed events on select nights, including Cottagecore dress-up night on August 1 and Pride Night on August 9.

The Natural World of Studio Ghibli at The Ford from August 23-25 celebrates the studio’s explorations of natural environments and their spiritual aspects through film screenings of “Princess Mononoke,” “Spirited Away,” and “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.” Tickets are available for individual nights or as a package for the entire three-evening run.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles in August is a treasure trove of activities that cater to all tastes and interests. For occasional travelers, we recommend starting with a Downtown LA Walking Tour to get a feel for the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. This is a great way to see the city at your own pace and discover hidden gems.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods through self-guided tours or hop-on-hop-off bus tours*. These options allow you to delve deeper into the unique character of each area, from the historic charm of Hollywood to the artistic vibe of Venice Beach.

In conclusion, Los Angeles in August offers a myriad of events and activities that promise to make your summer memorable. Whether you’re a music lover, a cultural enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore all that Los Angeles has to offer this August!