What’s Happening in Los Angeles This Week? Discover Top Events and Activities!

Los Angeles, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and diverse entertainment options, offers an exciting array of activities this week. From July 15 to July 19, 2024, residents and visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of events that showcase the city’s rich artistic, musical, and cultural heritage.

Griffith Observatory and the Cosmos

One of the highlights of the week is the “All Space Considered” event at the Griffith Observatory. On Thursday, the observatory’s curatorial staff will lead a discussion on the latest phenomena and news in astronomy. This month’s program features Dr. Gabriele Vajente, Deputy Chief Engineer at the LIGO Laboratory, who will delve into the fascinating topic of Gravitational-wave Astronomy: Listening to the Dark Side of the Universe. The event runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and offers a unique opportunity to explore the vastness of the cosmos. Admission is free, making it an accessible and educational experience for all.

SheLA Summer Theater Festival

Starting on Tuesday, the Zephyr Theater will host the SheLA Summer Theater Festival, a six-day showcase of new and original works by gender-marginalized playwrights and composers in Los Angeles. This festival is a celebration of creativity and diversity, providing a platform for voices that are often underrepresented in the theater world. Tickets start at $30 per performance, with a three-show pass available for $75. The festival promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring event, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in the arts.

Music and Dance Extravaganzas

Los Angeles’ music scene is in full swing this week with several notable events. The Hollywood Bowl Jazz Orchestra will perform a free one-hour concert at Gloria Molina Grand Park on Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m. This lunchtime concert, led by Charley Harrison, features some of the best jazz players in the heart of the city.

On Friday, the Skirball Cultural Center’s annual Sunset Concert series returns with a performance by the Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba Fusion ensemble, El Laberinto del Coco. The concerts include complimentary gallery access, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Free walk-up tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and parking ranges from $15 to $20.

For those who love to dance, the Music Center hosts Dance DTLA on Friday evening, featuring Colombian Cumbia. Instructors will teach guests the steps, and the event runs from 7 to 11 p.m. Admission is free, making it a perfect way to enjoy a lively night of music and dance.

RuPaul’s DragCon and More

RuPaul’s DragCon returns to the L.A. Convention Center on Friday and Saturday, bringing two days of drag culture to the city. Attendees can expect panel events, shopping, performances, and face time with stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Single-day tickets range from $25 to $150, offering various levels of access to this vibrant celebration of self-expression and artistry.

Additionally, the Broad Museum will host two nights of outdoor concerts at the East West Bank Plaza on Friday and Saturday. Tickets include access to the special exhibition Mickalene Thomas: All About Love in the third-floor gallery after hours. General admission costs $50, while VIP tickets are priced at $75.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles is a city that never sleeps, offering a plethora of activities for both occasional and expert travelers. For those visiting the city for the first time, we recommend taking advantage of the free events and outdoor activities. The Griffith Observatory’s public star party on Saturday, July 13th, is a must-see, allowing guests to use telescopes and explore the night sky.

For seasoned travelers, consider exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene. The Friday Night Wine Tastings at Barnsdall Park, which have returned after a five-year hiatus, offer a delightful experience with a $45 ticket that includes a flight of wine from Silverlake Wine, access to food trucks, and sunset views of the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Park Observatory.

In conclusion, Los Angeles offers a rich tapestry of events that cater to all interests. Whether you’re a lover of the arts, a music enthusiast, or simply looking to explore the city’s cultural offerings, there is something for everyone. Take the time to immerse yourself in the unique experiences that Los Angeles has to offer, and you’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.