Exploring Los Angeles: Art, Music, Food, and More from September 16-19, 2024

Los Angeles, a city known for its vibrant culture and endless entertainment options, is buzzing with a plethora of events this week. From art exhibitions and comedy shows to film festivals and unique dining experiences, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a detailed look at what’s happening in LA and why these events are worth your time.

Art and Culture

The art scene in Los Angeles is thriving with several noteworthy exhibitions. One of the highlights is the L.A. Story inspired art exhibit at Hauser & Wirth in West Hollywood. This exhibit, which runs from September 12, 2024, through January 4, 2025, features artworks inspired by the 1988 Steve Martin classic comedy L.A. Story. Martin, an avid art collector, expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m thrilled that L.A. Story is the focus of so many wonderful artists and a wonderful gallery, Hauser & Wirth, which is just across the street from the Troubadour, where I first stepped foot on Santa Monica Blvd., which began my L.A. sojourn.” Visitors can expect to see paintings from prominent L.A. artists like David Hockney, along with more avant-garde pieces that offer unique takes on inspirations from the film.

Another must-see is Olafur Eliasson’s OPEN at MOCA’s Little Tokyo location. Known for his monumental environmental installations, Eliasson brings a new commission to Los Angeles, along with three decades of works addressing the climate crisis. This exhibition is a profound exploration of environmental art and its impact on society.

For those interested in indigenous art, Future Imaginaries: Indigenous Art, Fashion, Technology at the Autry showcases over 50 works that envision alternative futures in the face of enduring colonial trauma. This exhibition features surreal spacescapes from Wendy Red Star and pop culture commentaries by Andy Everson, among others.

Music and Performances

Music lovers have plenty to look forward to this week. The mid-2000s Brooklyn indie band The Babies are reuniting for a performance at the Teragram Ballroom on September 18, 2024. This is their first show in a decade, making it a highly anticipated event for fans of the indie music scene.

Comedy enthusiasts should not miss John Early’s performance at The Bellwether on September 17, 2024. Best known for his role in 30 Rock and his appearance in Taylor Swift’s “Anti-Hero” video, Early is set to release his first album, Now More Than Ever, this week. His act promises to be a blend of humor and music, featuring his band The Lemon Squares and his alter ego, “Vicky with a V.”

The Latino Theater Company is presenting Whittier Boulevard, a “Chicano Noir” satire, at The LATC from September 14, 2024, through October 20, 2024. Directed by José Luis Valenzuela, the play explores a future L.A. facing wildfires, torrential rain, and societal collapse, posing the poignant question, “Who are we without our elders?”

Food and Dining

Wednesday, September 18, 2024, is National Cheeseburger Day, and there are plenty of deals to be had across the city. One notable spot is FIG in Santa Monica, which is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a new menu co-created by Dr. Alexandra Lourdes. Highlights include gluten-free, dairy-free churros, with $1 from each dish donated to the Santa Monica Education Foundation.

For those looking to explore the LA food scene further, LAist’s Crawford Theater is hosting an event on Thursday, featuring chefs Antonia Lofaso, Lien Ta, and Danielle Duran-Zecca. Attendees can enjoy bites from Guerilla Tacos and Flouring L.A., while learning about the latest trends and innovations in local cuisine.

Outdoor and Family Activities

Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the full super moon on Monday, September 16, 2024, with a hike through Griffith Park. Led by @jasonjourneyman, the hike includes special tools like a telescope and a bat detector to enhance the experience.

For a more family-friendly outing, the Natural History Museum’s Spider Pavilion is open, allowing visitors to observe several hundred orbweaver spiders in a living exhibit. This is a unique opportunity to face your fears and learn about these fascinating creatures in a controlled environment.

The Rose Bowl Flea Market on September 8, 2024, is another great option for families. As the largest flea market in Southern California, it offers hundreds of stalls selling everything from antiques to clothes, making it a perfect spot to find unique treasures.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles is a city that never sleeps, offering endless opportunities for entertainment and exploration. For occasional travelers, we recommend taking a full moon hike in Griffith Park. It’s a magical experience that combines the beauty of nature with the thrill of adventure. Don’t forget to bring a telescope for a closer look at the super moon.

For expert travelers, consider diving deeper into the local art scene. Visit the Hauser & Wirth gallery for the L.A. Story exhibit and then explore other nearby galleries. Los Angeles is home to a rich tapestry of artistic expression, and there’s always something new to discover.

In conclusion, Los Angeles offers a diverse array of activities that cater to all interests. Whether you’re an art lover, a music enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone. So get out there and explore all that this vibrant city has to offer!