Upcoming Events: February 5-11, 2018

Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk (Second Thursdays)
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, February 8
Downtown Los Angeles
http://downtownartwalk.org/

This free monthly event takes place over many blocks in Downtown Los Angeles. Many galleries will open late, and some parking lots will contain more art, vendors, food trucks, entertainment, and more. Unless you know business owners, free parking barely exists in Downtown LA, although some meters only operate until 8pm. First-time visitors should attend with someone who has gone here prior.

51st Annual California International Antiquarian Book Fair
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm, February 9
11:00 am – 7:00 pm, February 10
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, February 11
Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena
http://cabookfair.com/

Discover hundreds of books this weekend in Pasadena. Presale admission costs $13 per day or $23 for the full weekend. Admission goes up by $2 at the door.

Lunar New Year Tết Festival 2018
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, February 9
11:00 am – 10:00 pm, February 10
11:00 am – 8:00 pm, February 11
SDCCU Stadium, San Diego
http://lunarnewyearfestival.org/

Celebrate Lunar New Year at this festival in San Diego this weekend. Visitors of all ages will find cultural food, vendors, rides, games, arts & crafts, music, entertainment, merchandise, and more. Admission costs $5 for adults and $4 for children.

Gamer Bowl, a GamerCon event
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, February 9
10:00 am – 10:00 pm, February 10
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, February 11
Tenth Avenue Arts Center, Downtown San Diego
http://www.gamercon.com/

This weekend, check out an all-ages event featuring video games, board games, prizes, and other activities. Admission costs $17 for adults or $13.50 for children, and provides entry to the event for all three days.

12th Annual Croatian Cultural Extravaganza
7:30 pm – 12:00 am, February 9
3:00 pm – 2:00 am, February 10
10:30 am – 3:00 pm, February 11
St. Anthony Croatian Catholic Church, Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/1901040880178563/

A handful of Croatian events will take place near Downtown Los Angeles this weekend. Every event has different admission costs (some free) and age limits. Click on the event page linked above for details.

31st Annual Vintage Fashion Expo
9:00 am – 6:00 pm, February 10
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, February 11
The Reef, South Central Los Angeles
http://www.vintageexpo.com/

Find all the latest trends in vintage fashion this weekend at The Reef in Los Angeles. Attendees to this expo will find hundreds of vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories for sale from over 50 different vendors for both men and women. Ticket prices heavily vary, but note that general admission starts at 10:30 am on Saturday. Those that purchase an upgraded ticket can enter as early as 9am. Parking at the venue costs $15 per vehicle, but visitors can either search for other parking lots or street meters, or take public transportation to save on commute costs.

2018 Gluten Free & Allergen Friendly Expo
10:00 am – 3:00 pm, February 10-11
Del Mar Fairgrounds Wyland Center, Del Mar
http://gfafexpo.com/expos/san-diego

Find all things gluten-free and allergen-friendly at this expo in San Diego County this weekend. Adult admission costs $15 for one day or $25 for both. Children’s admission costs $5 for one day or $7 for both. Parking costs $13 per vehicle. Admission grants access to the entire expo floor, full of vendors, seminars, free goodies, and more.

Hello Kitty Cafe Pop-Up – Burbank Appearance
10:00 am – 8:00 pm, February 10
Burbank Town Center, Burbank
http://hellokittycafe.us/
http://www.facebook.com/events/574540182895864/

SoCal Hello Kitty fans will not want to miss this rare opportunity to experience the Hello Kitty Cafe. This weekend, visitors will enjoy macarons, minicakes, and other Hello Kitty treats not found anywhere else.

4th Annual Los Angeles Cookie Con & Sweets Show
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, February 10
11:00 am – 4:00 pm, February 11
Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim
http://www.lacookiecon.com/

Got a sweet tooth? You will not want to miss this event featuring all things sweet. General admission costs $25, and includes access to unlimited treats while supplies last. Celebrity chefs will also make an appearance for anyone wanting photos or autographs.

3rd Annual San Gabriel Lunar New Year Festival
11:00 am – 8:00 pm, February 10
San Gabriel Mission Playhouse, San Gabriel
http://sglunarnewyear.org/

Celebrate the upcoming lunar new year with this FREE and all-ages festival in San Gabriel this Saturday afternoon. Visitors will find music, dance, art, food trucks, a beer & wine garden, tea garden, live calligraphy, fortune telling, and more.

Jav’s BBQ Grand Opening
11:30 am – 9:00 pm, February 10
Jav’s BBQ, Anaheim
http://www.javsbbq.co/
http://www.facebook.com/events/542970226087753/

Though already open to the public, this barbecue restaurant in Anaheim will hold its grand opening celebration this Saturday, complete with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and live music all day. Free to attend, customers will receive chances to enter to win raffle prizes.

Cupid’s Undie Run
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, February 10
The Victorian, Santa Monica
http://www.cupidsundierun.com/city/los-angeles/

Enjoy Valentine’s Day by running about a mile in your skivvies at this fun run in Santa Monica. Registration for this run costs $55 per participant, and anyone interested can also register as a team. For full rules and regulations, please see the official website linked above. No one under 21 may participate.

14th Annual Belmont Shore Chocolate Festival
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, February 10
2nd Street, Belmont Shore, Long Beach
http://www.belmontshore.org/event/14th-annual-chocolate-festival/

The Belmont Shore Chocolate Festival features a Homemade Chocolate Dessert Contest and various Pie-Eating Contests, in addition to the restaurants up and down 2nd Street sampling their chocolate goodies. Completely free to attend, guests may purchase booklets of 12 tickets for $10 on the day of the fest in front of Chase Bank. Guests may use these tickets to exchange for various eats & drinks from participating businesses in Belmont Shore.

9th Annual Brewbies Fest
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, February 10
Bagby Beer Company, Oceanside
http://www.brewbies.org/

If you could not tell from the event name, this craft beer festival supports breast cancer research. Enjoy craft beer tastings from a multitude of breweries from across the nation during this four-hour tasting gala. General admission costs $45 presale or $60 at the door, and starts at 1pm. VIP admission costs $65 and starts at 12pm. All attendees receive a souvenir glass, souvenir bracelet, and unlimited beer tasters while supplies last. Absolutely no one under the age of 21 may enter.

4th Annual Port of Los Angeles Lunar New Year Festival
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm, February 10
Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles, San Pedro
http://www.portoflosangeles.org/community/Lunar_New_Year_2018.asp

A free and all-ages event celebrating Chinese New Year comes to San Pedro this Saturday evening. Guests will find arts & crafts, vendors, a petting zoo, live entertainment, food, and more.

Art Crawl Experience
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, February 10
Center Street Promenade, Downtown Anaheim
http://downtownanaheim.com/events/ace/

Downtown Anaheim will see a variety of activities and exhibits this Saturday night. Visitors can expect to find tons of art exhibits, live music, food, food trucks, drinks, yoga, dance, and more. Visitors may park for free in the parking structure located at S Clementine Street and W Oak Street.

14th Annual Bulldog Beauty Contest
9:30 am – 3:00 pm, February 11
Marine Stadium Park (north end), Long Beach
http://www.hautedogs.org/bulldog.html

Surround yourself with cuteness this Sunday morning at the Bulldog Beauty Contest in Long Beach. Completely free to attend for all ages, guests will see over 500 bulldogs in attendance, as many will strut their little legs on the red carpet runway. Each entry can win from any of 19 contests, some of which will cater to other dog breeds. Guests wanting seats at the runway will have to pay $5, while anyone wanting to enter their dog must pay $10 per entry.

Valley Retro Game Swap
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, February 11
Game Realms, Burbank
http://game-realms.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/147674192603218/

A swap meet for video games will take place in Burbank this Sunday, free to attend for all ages. The venue may also have some retro games available for play as well.

KSPC CD & Record Expo
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, February 11
Smith Campus Center Ballroom, Claremont
http://kspc.org/cd-record-expo/

For $2 admission and free parking, enter a room full of music albums available for purchase. Interact with dozens of vendors selling all sorts of music, new and old.

4th Annual San Diego Fermentation Festival
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, February 11
Leichtag Commons, Encinitas
http://sandiegofermentationfestival.com/

This annual all-ages festival showcasing Southern California’s bounty of artisanal foodmakers returns this weekend to a new, bigger location. This event will feature seminars, workshops, arts & crafts, activities, vendors, food & beverages, live music, and more. Regular admission costs $30 and provides access to food and non-alcoholic beverages, while a $45 admission will include ten tasters of craft beers and wines.

Upcoming Events: April 17-23, 2017

6th Annual Taste of South Pasadena
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, April 19
Canoe House, South Pasadena
http://www.southpasadenarotary.org/

Sample the local flavor of South Pasadena this Wednesday evening. This tasting consists of two events: a wine tasting portion, and a restaurant crawl. The wine tasting costs $20 to attend and takes place at the Canoe House from 5pm to 7pm. The restaurant crawl takes place from 6pm to 9pm, and costs $35 for adults or $15 for those under 21, and provides unlimited food samples while supplies last.

2017 Taste of Point Loma
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm, April 19
Portuguese Club, Point Loma, San Diego
http://www.facebook.com/TasteofPointLoma

Sample specialties from local Point Loma restaurants this Wednesday night. For $25, guests gain access to free shuttles that will take them from various places around Point Loma so that guests can reach all the restaurants in time.

Women’s Beer Forum
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, April 19
Eagle Rock Brewery, Eagle Rock
http://www.eaglerockbrewery.com/womens-beer-forum/

$23 gets you a flight of four beers from various breweries. Judging by historical posts about this event, it appears that men may not participate in this.

5th Annual Orange County Improv Festival
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 19-22
STAGEStheatre, Fullerton
http://ocimprovfest.com/

Enjoy up to four nights of improv comedy in Orange County this weekend. Tickets cost $10 per day or $40 for an all-access pass for all four days. The venue has a small parking lot, and the surrounding neighborhood only allows parking for up to two hours, so plan your commute accordingly. The website does not specify an age minimum, though you can expect adult humor, so consider leaving the little ones at home.

Newport Beach Film Festival
April 20-27
Multiple venues, Newport Beach
http://www.newportbeachfilmfest.com/

Dozens of independent films will air this week in Newport Beach. Check out the website for a schedule of all the films that you may watch, as well as the prices for each.

24th Annual Wild & Crazy Taco Night
4:30 pm – 7:30 pm, April 20
Share Our Selves, Costa Mesa
http://www.shareourselves.org/events/

25 of Orange County’s finest chefs will gather to prepare their most unusual and unique taco. Come witness history in the making, as chefs strive to reinvent the wheel by crafting the new generation of tacos. VIP hour starts at 4:30pm and costs $150, while general admission starts at 5:30pm and costs $80. Admission does not guarantee food for attendees.

The Muckenthaler’s 5th Annual Speakeasy
7:30 pm – 10:00 pm, April 20
The Muckenthaler Cultural Center, Fullerton
http://themuck.org/programing/2017/4/20/the-muckenthalers-5th-annual-speakeasy

Enjoy fashion, drinks, dancing, and music this Thursday night in Fullerton. Admission costs $25 and comes with a complimentary glass of champagne. No one under 21 may attend.

38th Annual OC Fair Imaginology
9:00 am – 3:00 pm, April 21
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, April 22-23
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
http://www.ocfair.com/steam

Bring out the family to this free and all-ages event this weekend in Costa Mesa featuring activities, games, and other arts & crafts surrounding science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Parking at the venue costs $8 per vehicle.

2017 South Bay Home & Garden Show
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, April 21
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, April 22
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 23
Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach
http://www.homeshowconsultants.com/

This free and all-ages expo will showcase the latest in home improvement, remodeling, interior-design, decorating, landscaping, and more. Parking starts at $5, but parking the neighborhood east of Alamitos can bypass any parking fees.

Cerritos Spring Festival
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 21
1:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 22
1:00 pm – 9:00 pm, April 23
Cerritos Sports Complex, Cerritos
http://www.cerritos.us/RESIDENTS/recreation/events/program_highlights.php

Enjoy a local spring carnival this weekend, free to attend for all ages. Visitors will find rides, games, live entertainment, food, drinks, treats, and more.

San Diego Magazine’s Best of North County Party
6:30 pm – 9:30 pm, April 21
The Paddock, Del Mar
http://www.sandiegomagazine.com/San-Diego-Magazine/January-2017/Best-of-North-County-Party-2017/

Samples food from North San Diego County’s top restaurants and chefs, and sip on wines and beers from the area’s breweries and wineries at this tasting gala this Friday night. Admission to this event costs $80 per person.

Purple Rain Peepshow
8:00 pm – 11:00 pm, April 21
Harvelle’s, Downtown Long Beach
http://www.dirtylittlesecretsburlesque.com/

Enjoy a sultry burlesque show dedicated to the late Prince this Friday night in Downtown Long Beach. Admission to this show costs $12. No one under 21 may attend.

Extreme Midget Wrestling
9:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 21
Club 80s Bar & Grill, Corona
http://extrememidgetwrestling.com/

You have not witnessed anything unlike midget wrestling. Come watch this unbelievable spectacle this Friday night for a good drunken night. Admission starts at $20. No one under 21 may enter.

Angels 5k & Fun Run
6:00 am – 9:00 am, April 22
Angel Stadium, Anaheim
http://www.race-angels.com/

Take part in a 5k and/or fun run at Angel Stadium this Saturday morning. Registration costs $45 for the 5k or $30 for the fun run.

2017 Cambodian New Year Celebration
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, April 22
El Dorado Park, Long Beach
http://www.cam-cc.org/

Celebrate Cambodian New Year this Saturday in Long Beach with traditional & modern performances, live music, arts & crafts, games, food, vendors, and more. Tickets plus parking to this all-ages festival cost $30 presale or $40 at the gate.

International Tiki Market Place
10:00 am – 3:00 pm, April 22
Don The Beachcomber, Sunset Beach
http://www.donthebeachcomber.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/319731998441902/

For $10 admission gain access to a plethora of tiki-themed vendors in Sunset Beach this Saturday afternoon. Admission comes with a $10 voucher for food & drink, so technically you get in for free!

Earth Day 2017, Uptown Whittier
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, April 22
Greenleaf Grassy Area, Uptown Whitter
http://whittieruptown.org/earthday

Bring out the family for some activities, arts & crafts, and more at this free and all-ages event this Saturday late morning in Whittier.

Green Scene Plant & Garden Expo
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, April 22-23
Fullerton Arboretum, Fullerton
http://fullertonarboretum.org/event_green.php

Check out a diverse range of plants, arts & crafts, and more this weekend at the Fullerton Arboretum at Cal State Fullerton. Admission costs $8 for this all-ages event.

22nd Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 22-23
University of Southern California, Los Angeles
http://events.latimes.com/festivalofbooks/

Immerse yourself in a world of literature this weekend on the USC campus, completely free to attend. In addition to finding thousands of books here, visitors can expect live bands, poetry readings, chef demos, cultural entertainment, artists creating their work on-site, a photography exhibit, film screenings, discussion panels on some of today’s hottest topics, and so much more. Parking on campus costs $10, while the indoor seminars cost between $10 to $15 to attend.

26th Annual Poppy Festival
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 22-23
Lancaster City Park, Lancaster
http://www.poppyfestival.com/

Bring out the family to this all-ages family-fun festival this weekend in Lancaster. This festival will have plenty of activities for everyone to get involved with, along with food, drinks, multiple vendors, music, dance, art, games, rides, and more. Admission for regular adults costs $8, while children, seniors, and military can enter for $5.

5th Annual Riverside Tamale Festival
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, April 22
White Park, Riverside
http://rivtamalefest.com/

Enjoy Hispanic food and culture this Saturday afternoon in Riverside. Admission costs only $10, but all guests must pay for tamales at cost, so bring cash for that.

College Area Business District’s ART Street
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, April 22
Social Tap, College Area, San Diego
http://collegeareabid.com/?page_id=2831

Check out dozens of artists booths at this free and all-ages street fair this Saturday afternoon in San Diego. This event will also have live entertainment and a food & beer garden.

2017 Wild West Steam Fest
10:00 am – 8:00 pm, April 22
Heritage Museum of Orange County, Santa Ana
http://www.wildweststeamfest.com/

Steampunk meets the wild west at this all-ages festival this Saturday in Santa Ana. Dress to impress, and enjoy activities such as live music, costume contests, reenactments, arts & crafts, seminars, museum tours, and more. The festival runs until 6pm, and a concert starts at 7pm. Admission costs $30 for the festival, $10 for the concert, $35 for both, or $10 less for children/youth.

9th Annual Hippy Killer Hoedown
10:00 am – 8:00 pm, April 22
Farmers Fairgrounds, Perris
http://hippykillersgarage.blogspot.com/

At this all-ages kustom kulture festival, see all sorts of cars, hot rods, customs, motorcycles, vans, live music, and more. Admission to this event costs $10.

Green Prize Festival
11:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 22
Houghton Park, Long Beach
http://www.greenprizefestival.com/

Celebrate Earth Day this Saturday in Long Beach. At this free all-ages community festival down by the beach, visitors will find demos by local farms & chefs, live entertainment, local artists, green & eco-friendly services, speakers, arts & crafts, food from local restaurants, delis, food trucks, and more.

Santa Barbara Earth Day 2017
11:00 am – 7:00 pm, April 22-23
Alameda Park, Santa Barbara
http://www.sbearthday.org/

Free to attend for all ages, Santa Barbara will host an Earth Day fair this weekend. Guests will find lots of activities, arts & crafts, live entertainment, food & drinks, and more.

Meat Street Food Festival
11:00 am – 11:00 pm, April 22
Main Place Mall, Santa Ana
http://eatmeatstreet.com/

Foodbeast returns with another food festival this Saturday dedicated to meat. It operates much like their previous festivals – you can either pay for an entry admission to gain access to vendors where you will have to pay for food again, or you can pay for an all-you-can-eat experience that lasts only three hours. Basic admission costs $10, but then you still need cash to pay for anything else once inside. The all-you-can-eat experience costs $50 to attend, and runs from 1pm to 4pm, or 5pm to 8pm. These sessions will include some exclusive food vendors that the basic admission cannot get, which you can see on the website.

2017 California Wine Festival – Dana Point
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, April 22
Lantern Bay Park, Dana Point
http://californiawinefestival.com/events/orange-county

Enjoy food and wine at this wine tasting event this Saturday afternoon in Dana Point. General admission costs $69 and starts at 1pm, early admission costs $89 and starts at 12pm, and VIP admission costs $109, starts at 12pm, and includes a few extra VIP perks.

7th Annual San Clemente Micro-Brew Fest
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, April 22
Left Coast Brewing Company, San Clemente
http://www.scchamber.com/

Enjoy an afternoon of beer and food in San Clemente this Saturday afternoon. This beer festival will contain 17 local breweries all serving their wonderful brews, and food from local non-profit groups. General admission costs $35 presale or $40 at the door, and starts at 1pm. Early entry costs $45, and starts at 12pm. All attendees will receive 12 4oz beer pours.

Spring 2017 Dapper Day
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, April 22
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, April 23
Disneyland Hotel, Anaheim
http://dapperday.com/spring-2017-disneyland-ca

Dress to impress at this FREE and all-ages style expo this weekend at the Disneyland Resort. A plethora of activities will take place between the hotel and the amusement park throughout the weekend, so check the website to see what will occur. Some activities may require a fee. Visitors may park for free for up to two hours at the Downtown Disney parking lot.

10th Annual CityBeat Festival of Beers
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, April 22
Lafayette Hotel, San Diego
http://citybeatbeerfest.com/

Looking to get your beer on this weekend? Head to the San Diego CityBeat Festival of Beers, where guests receive UNLIMITED pours from over 50 breweries plus the souvenir taster cup. Guests may purchase food at an additional cost. General admission costs $45 and starts at 2pm, while VIP admission costs $55 and starts at 1pm. No one under 21 may enter.

3rd Annual STEAM Carnival
2:00 pm – 7:00 pm, April 22
Great Park, Irvine
http://ipsf.net/steam-carnival.html

Bring out the family to this free and all-ages event this Saturday afternoon in Irvine featuring activities, games, and other arts & crafts surrounding science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

Watermelon Blonde Party
2:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 22
Hamilton Family Brewery, Rancho Cucamonga
http://www.hamiltonfamilybrewery.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/178089952707794/

Rancho Cucamonga’s Hamilton Family Brewery will release a spring seasonal beer this Saturday, and they will also have a watermelon eating contest and other fun watermelon inspired games and activities throughout the day. This event has no admission fee – simpy show up, and enjoy a cold one or two.

Playhouse District Wine Walk
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, April 22
Pasadena Playhouse, Pasadena
http://www.playhousedistrict.org/calendar-of-events/wine-walk

For $25, you get six wine tastings at this small wine tasting event in Pasadena this Saturday evening.

South Coast Roller Derby Double Header
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 22
Laguna Hills Community Center, Laguna Hills
http://www.southcoastrollerderby.com/

Watch intense & brutal girl-on-girl action at this roller derby bout this Saturday night in Laguna Hills. Tickets to this roller derby bout cost $8 presale or $10 at the door.

Half Past Two’s 10th Anniversary
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 22
House of Blues, Anaheim
http://www.halfpasttwoska.com/

Get your skanking on at this all-ages ska show this Saturday night in Anaheim. The cover for this show costs $10.

Life In Color San Diego 2017
9:00 pm – 3:00 am, April 22
Valley View Casino Center, San Diego
http://lifeincolor.com/

Some genius decided to take a nighttime color glow run and do away with the running. Now we have this nighttime color glow music fest. General admission to this concert costs $70. No one under 18 may attend.

Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show
5:00 am – 2:00 pm, April 23
Fairplex, Pomona
http://www.pomonaswapmeet.com/

See thousands of original and restored classic cars at the Fairplex this Sunday morning. Many of the vendors will also sell automotive accessories, parts, and more as well. This all-ages show cost $10 to enter, while children 10 and under get in free with a paid adult admission. Parking costs $10 per vehicle – guests must enter via gate 17 on Fairplex Drive, directly off the 10 freeway.

6th Annual Long Beach Walk for Kids
7:00 am – 10:00 am, April 23
Shoreline Aquatic Park, Long Beach
http://www.walkforkids.org/longbeach

Go on a walk to raise money for awareness this Sunday morning in Long Beach. Registration for this walk costs $25.

2017 La Jolla Half Marathon & Shores 5k
7:30 am – 10:30 am, April 23
Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar
http://www.lajollahalfmarathon.com/

A half marathon will take place in San Diego County this Sunday morning that stretches from Del Mar to La Jolla. Registration for the half marathon costs $120, while registration for the 5k costs $45.

EPIC Series Los Angeles
8:00 am – 3:00 pm, April 23
Los Angeles Police Academy, Elysian Park
http://www.epicseriesocr.com/upcoming-events/epic-series-los-angeles/

Test your might at this all-ages obstacle course this Sunday morning in Los Angeles. Registration costs $65 for the open course or $70 for the competitive course. The kids course costs $10 to participate in.

31st Annual Fallbrook Avocado Festival
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, April 23
Main Street, Downtown Fallbrook
http://www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org/events-v2/avocado-festival.html

This annual local treat returns to Fallbrook this Sunday to celebrate the legacy of the California avocado. Free to attend for all ages, visitors will find hundreds of vendors booths, arts & crafts, live entertainment, food & drinks, activities, and more.

28th Annual San Diego Earth Fair
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, April 23
Balboa Park, San Diego
http://earthdayweb.org/

This FREE and all-ages Earth Day celebration takes place this Sunday at Balboa Park in San Diego. Bring the family out to enjoy this fair with art galleries, “green” food, arts & crafts, vendors, a parade, and more.

Tiger Army with T.S.O.L. & Gamblers Mark
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 23
Majestic Ventura Theater, Ventura
http://www.tigerarmy.com/

Legendary psychobilly band Tiger Army currently tours across the world, and that tour swings through Southern California this week. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $30.

A Cavalcade of Art and Literature at the 5th Annual LA Art Book Fair

The Los Angeles Art Book Fair returned to the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA in the Little Tokyo neighborhood of Downtown Los Angeles this past weekend for its fifth consecutive year running. Free to attend for all ages, this massive event hosted by Printed Matter attracted thousands of art and literature enthusiasts from all over to come check out the hundreds of writers and artists exhibiting their works here. As far as the types of art found here, visitors would only find print and canvas works. However, this fair possessed more than enough eye candy for anyone interested in the arts. The diversity of genres covered here would appeal to anyone, young or old, classic or modern. From paintings to photography to books to magazines, this fair had it all, and visitors could purchase any of it to take home.

As a free and all-ages event, this makes for a great event to check out with friends and family. Make sure you bookmark the LA Art Book Fair for next year to visit, which comes back some time around late February to early March.

Upcoming Events: February 20-26, 2017

5th Annual San Diego Comic Fest
6:00 pm – 11:00 pm, February 17
9:00 am – 11:00 pm, February 18-19
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, February 20
Four Points by Sheraton, Parkview, San Diego
http://www.sdcomicfest.org/

Much smaller and more intimate than the San Diego Comic Con, this weekend expo will feature artists, writers, actors, models, screenings, speakers, autograph sessions, merchandise, apparel, accessories, and more. Admission on Saturday or Sunday costs $25 for adults, $12.50 for students, and free for children. Admission for Monday costs $15 for adults, $7.50 for students, and still free for children. A 4-day weekend pass costs $50 for adults, $25 for children, and still free for children. Parking costs $4 per vehicle per day.

Dine Out Long Beach Restaurant Week 2.0
February 19-25
Participating restaurants, Long Beach
http://dineoutlongbeach.com/

The city of Long Beach has so many fine restaurants that they will have an entire week to celebrate the bounty. During this 7-day period, participating restaurants will have various food & drink specials. Check the website linked above for a list of participating restaurants and their specials.

Total Chaos: Live in Downtown LA
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, February 22
5 Star Bar, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/585136735011813/

Enjoy a FREE hardcore punk show in Downtown LA this Wednesday night. No one under 18 may enter.

Suicidal Tendencies: World Gone Mad Tour 2017
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, February 22, The Observatory, Santa Ana
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, February 23, The Observatory, North Park, San Diego
http://www.suicidaltendencies.eu/index.php/news/item/312-world-gone-mad-us-tour

Legendary hardcore punk band Suicidal Tendencies embarks on a tour this week, and that tour will start in Southern California. Tickets to these all-ages shows vary in price, so check with the venue for prices.

5th Annual LA Art Book Fair
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, February 23
1:00 pm – 7:00 pm, February 24
11:00 am – 7:00 pm, February 25
11:00 am – 6:00 pm, February 26
The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, Little Tokyo, Downtown Los Angeles
http://laartbookfair.net/

An all-ages book fair comes to Downtown LA this weekend. Thursday night costs $10 to attend, and will have live entertainment as well as a book signing. Visitors may enter for free for the rest of the weekend.

San Diego Burger Week
February 24 – March 4
Participating locations, San Diego County
http://sdcitybeat.com/burgerweek

Enjoy select specialty burgers from participating locations all over San Diego County during this 10-day period for just $6 each!

San Luis Obispo Craft Beer Fest
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, February 24
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, February 25
Alex Madonna Expo Center, San Luis Obispo
http://www.slo-beer-fest.com/

Get sudsy in San Luis Obispo this weekend and enjoy dozens of beers from dozens of breweries. Admission costs $30 for Friday night or $50 for Saturday afternoon. All attendees receive a souvenir cup and unlimited food and beer samples while supplies last. Both days will contain the same things, but Friday costs less due to lower demand. No one under 21 may attend.

Flavors: Future of Food
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm, February 24
The Autry Museum, Griffith Park
http://theautry.org/events/special-events/flavors-future-food

Immerse yourself in the wonders of California’s “Farm To Table” culinary phenomenon this Friday night at The Autry Museum. Admission costs $50 and provides unlimited food samples while supplies last.

2nd Annual Skacademy Awards
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, February 24-25
Out Of The Park Pizza, Anaheim
http://www.facebook.com/events/734994536662975/

Southern Californian ska bands have banded together to throw an awards show dedicated to the booming SoCal ska scene. Free to attend for all ages, various awards will go out to select bands, and a handful of ska bands will perform a set as well on both nights.

CoffeeCon LA 2017
9:00 am – 4:00 pm, February 25-26
The Reef, South Central Los Angeles
http://www.coffee-con.com/

This weekend at CoffeeCon LA 2017, indulge in all things coffee, from the classic beverage to coffee candy to coffee desserts to coffee foods and more. General admission costs $15 per day or $20 for both days.

40th Annual Orange County Home & Garden Show
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, February 25
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, February 26
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
http://www.thebesthomeshow.com/

This all-ages expo will showcase the latest in home improvement, remodeling, interior-design, decorating, landscaping, and more. Admission costs $6 for adults, while children 12 and under enter for free with a paid adult admission. Parking at the OC Fair costs $8 per vehicle.

Hello Kitty Cafe Pop-Up – Northridge Appearance
10:00 am – 8:00 pm, February 25
Northridge Mall Fashion Center, Northridge
http://hellokittycafe.us/
http://www.facebook.com/events/1636182560019894/

SoCal Hello Kitty fans will not want to miss this rare opportunity to experience the Hello Kitty Cafe. This weekend, visitors will enjoy macarons, minicakes, and other Hello Kitty treats not found anywhere else.

$3 Hakata Ramen Sale
10:00 am – 10:00 pm, February 25-26
Shin-Sen-Gumi Hakata, Fountain Valley
http://www.shinsengumigroup.com/en/event/2017_fv_ramen_anniversary.php

In celebration of their 16th anniversary, Shin-Sen-Gumi in Fountain Valley will offer $3 bowls of their famous ramen this weekend. They will stop when they reach a thousand bowls served per day. Arrive early to score this deal!

Brouwerij West 1 Year Anniversary Funky Breakfunch
11:00 am – 3:00 pm, February 25
Brouwerij West, San Pedro
http://www.brouwerijwest.com/

One of the most anticipated breweries to set foot in Southern California has turned a year old, and they will celebrate their anniversary this weekend with beers for brunch. Admission costs $30 presale or $35 at the door, and includes a souvenir glass and ten 4oz beer pours. No one under 21 may attend.

Long Beach Mardi Gras
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, February 25
Shoreline Village, Long Beach
http://lbmardigras.com/

Shoreline Village plays host this Saturday to a myriad of music, art, activities, entertainment, dance, parades, and more. The actual parade starts at 3pm at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Completely free to attend for all ages, all guests can get involved with the festivities, from the dancing to the games and more. Dress up to get even more involved!

Lager Festival & Pig Roast
12:00 pm – 10:00 pm, February 25
MacLeod Ale Brewing Co., Van Nuys
http://www.macleodale.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/176129456205411/

This Saturday, Van Nuys’ MacLeod Ale Brewing will have a bunch of lagers on tap, and they will roast some whole hogs throughout the day. Free to attend, guests will simply pay for food and drinks as they go.

1st Annual Lumpia Fest – San Diego
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, February 25
Mira Mesa Community Park, Mira Mesa, San Diego
http://www.lumpiafest.com/

An all-ages food festival for all things Lumpia comes to San Diego this Saturday afternoon. Admission costs $55 presale or $75 at the gate, and includes unlimited food samples while supplies last. Drinks come at a separate cost.

Kiltomania Scottish Beer Festival
2:00 pm – 12:00 am, February 25
Hamilton Family Brewery, Rancho Cucamonga
http://www.hamiltonfamilybrewery.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/1183051035142905/

This Saturday, Rancho Cucamonga’s Hamilton Family Brewery will release two Scottish beers for you to try. In addition, they will have live bagpipers in the evening, mobile food vendors, games, and more. This event has no cover charge. They will have a special glass available for purchase, and all refills in that glass will receive a dollar off.

Tater Tots & Beer Festival
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, February 25
Balboa Park, San Diego
http://tatertotfestival.com/events/san-diego-ca/

Snack on tater tots and craft beers this Saturday in San Diego. General admission costs $40 while VIP admission costs $75 and provides access to a VIP area. All attendees receive unlimited food samples while supplies last, and a beer stamp card good for one beer from each participating brewery. No one under 21 may attend.

4th Annual Pub Crawl “The Twelve Pints of Christmas (in February)”
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm, February 25
Port Pavilion, Downtown San Diego
http://www.sdbeerfest.org/
http://www.facebook.com/events/144957152671133/

Join in on a pub crawl this Saturday evening in Downtown San Diego and explore five different locations while you get drunk with friends and/or complete strangers. All participants must pay for their own drinks.

2nd Annual San Pedro Craft Beer Festival
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, February 25
USS Iowa BattleShip, San Pedro
http://chugginbrews.com/

Sample local craft beers and check out a tourist attraction this Saturday afternoon in San Pedro. General admission costs $42, starts at 3pm, and includes unlimited beer while supplies last and access to the museum. VIP admission costs $65, starts at 2pm, and also includes a pretzel necklace, beer float, mimosa/sangria bar, and a souvenir glass. Parking costs $6 per vehicle. No one under 21 may attend.

Pasadena Comic Con & Toy Show
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, February 26
Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena
http://www.pasadenacomicandtoyshow.com/

Pasadena gets their own all-ages convention dedicated to comics and toys this Sunday. General admission costs $10 and starts at 10am, while early admission costs $15 and starts at 9am.

Hollywood Beer & Music Festival
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, February 26
Avalon Hollywood, Hollywood
http://www.hollywood-beerfestival.com/

Another corporate beer festival comes to Hollywood this Sunday afternoon. General admission costs $35 and starts at 2pm, while VIP admission costs $50 and starts at 1pm. No one under 21 may attend.

Not Another Ska Fest 4
5:00 pm – 1:00 am, February 26
Club Los Globos, Silverlake
http://www.clublosglobos.com/event/1429936-not-another-ska-fest-4-los-angeles/

An all-ages ska show takes place in Silverlake this Sunday night. Tickets to this show cost $6.

Upcoming Events: April 4-10, 2016

6th Annual East Village Opening Day Block Party
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 4
J Street b/w 6th & 10th, East Village, Downtown San Diego
http://eastvillagesandiego.com/6th-annual-east-village-opening-day-block-party-on-april-4th/

This free and all-ages event celebrates the San Diego Padres’ annual opening game. This street party will have craft beer, live music, food, drinks, vendors, and more.

First Tuesdays Tap Takeover: Bottle Logic
4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 5
Amazing Grapes, Rancho Santa Margarita
http://www.amazinggrapes.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/685025194973562/

Amazing Grapes in Rancho Santa Margarita has a feature tap takeover every first Tuesday of the month. This month, they will feature Bottle Logic on tap. This event has no cover charge – simply show up, and enjoy a beer or more.

Stone Pilot Series: Experimental IPA Taste Test
11:00 am – 2:00 am, April 6
Far Bar, Little Tokyo, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.farbarla.com/
http://www.facebook.com/events/1107186412637100/

Stone Brewing has some experimental IPA’s going on, and Far Bar will have two of them, #2 and #3. You get to help decide the customer favorite. Participants will get a taster of each first, then get a pint of their favorite. Whichever brew sells the most at the end of the day wins.

Brewballers Bottle Share
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm, April 6
The Brew & Meatball Co., Covina
http://www.facebook.com/events/576171029212075/

Got an interesting beer that you would like to share? Bring at least 750mL of beer, your own glass, and $10, and you can enjoy all the wonderful beers that everyone else will bring.

Dirty Little Secrets Rock Burlesque – First Wednesdays @ The Copper Door
9:30 pm – 12:00 am, April 6
The Copper Door, Downtown Santa Ana
http://www.dirtylittlesecretsburlesque.com/

Get your fill of burlesque every first Wednesday of the month at The Copper Door in Downtown Santa Ana, for free! Guests can park on the street for free after 8pm. No one under 21 may enter.

Scrapbook Expo – Orange County
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 7-9
Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim
http://www.scrapbookexpo.com/

The nationally-famous Scrapbook Expo comes to Southern California this week! Admission to this all-ages expo varies in price, starting at $8 for a one-day general admission adult ticket.

Taste of Leucadia: Food For Thought
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm, April 7
Leucadia 101 Main Street, Encinitas
http://www.leucadia101.com/events/taste-leucadia/

Sample the local flavors of Leucadia this Thursday evening at the Taste of Leucadia. For $20 presale or $30 on the day of the event, visitors get treated to unlimited food samples from all the participating restaurants. For an additional $15, guests can receive ten beer/wine tastings from select locations. The organizers have provided a shuttle that runs to and from city hall to alleviate the parking situation.

Spring Cider Slam with 2 Towns Ciderhouse
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, April 7
Restauration, Long Beach
http://restaurationlb.com/events/spring-cider-slam-with-2-towns-ciderhouse/

Enjoy some spring seasonal ciders in Long Beach this Thursday evening. Enjoy them individually, or try all four as a flight. This event has no cover charge.

4th Annual Orange County Improv Festival
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 7-9
STAGEStheatre, Fullerton
http://ocimprovfest.com/

Enjoy up to three nights of improv comedy in Orange County this weekend. Individual shows cost $10 to $15, while a pass for a full day costs $25. The venue has a small parking lot, and the surrounding neighborhood only allows parking for up to two hours, so plan your commute accordingly. The website does not specify an age minimum, though you can expect adult humor, so consider leaving the little ones at home.

Lucidity Festival 2016
10:00 am – 8:00 am, April 8-10
Live Oak Camp, Santa Barbara
http://2016.lucidityfestival.com/

Basically, a music & art festival that spans an entire weekend, similar to Coachella. This event runs nonstop from Friday morning through Monday morning. Lucidity requires many words to explain, which the website does a great job of. With dozens of stages, hundreds of vendors & artists, and endless activities, visitors will never run out of things to do here.

2016 Formula Drift
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, April 8
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 9
Long Beach Convention Center, Downtown Long Beach
http://formulad.com/schedule/long-beach

Taking place a week prior to the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, the Formula Drift competition utilizes the sharpest turns of the track to put on a show that everyone can enjoy. Feel the excitement as drivers throw on their best drifting performance while narrowly dodging massive wipeouts. Guests may also visit a vendor village, receive autographs from drivers, see the pits up close and personal, and more. Tickets vary in price, but general admission to the Saturday main event costs $40 plus fees up to $10. Parking at the convention center costs $10, so plan to carpool, take public transportation, or park in the neighborhood to the east to alleviate that parking fee.

Jello Biafra DJ Set
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 8
Diego’s Rock n’ Roll Bar & Eats, Santa Ana
http://www.facebook.com/events/1730562247155489/

Enjoy a night of punk rock music this Friday night in Santa Ana. The cover for this show costs $5. No one under 21 may enter.

Los Skarnales Boss Bday Bash
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, April 8
Characters Sports Bar, Pomona
http://www.gonzopresents.com/event/243090

Rock out to local punk/ska bands this Friday night in Pomona. The cover for this show costs $8. No one under 21 may enter. Guests can find plenty of free street parking around the area, and can avoid paying to park in the adjacent lot.

5th Annual Hollywood Half Marathon & 5k / 10k
5:00 am – 1:00 pm, April 9
Dolby Theatre, Hollywood
http://hollywoodhalfmarathon.com/

The streets of Hollywood close down this Saturday morning for this series of races. Registration costs $105 for the half-marathon, $50 for the 10k, or $45 for the 5k.

Angels 5k & Fun Run
6:00 am – 9:00 am, April 9
Angel Stadium, Anaheim
http://www.race-angels.com/

Take part in a 5k and/or fun run at Angel Stadium this Saturday morning. Registration costs $45 for the 5k or $30 for the fun run.

42nd Annual Run Seal Beach 5k/10k
7:00 am – 10:00 am, April 9
Marina Community Park, Seal Beach
http://www.runsealbeach.com/

A 5k/10k run will cover the streets of Seal Beach this Saturday morning. Registration costs $40 and includes an event t-shirt (XXL size costs $3 more). Plan your commute accordingly.

ArtFest 2016
9:00 am – 5:00 pm, April 9-10
San Diego Botanic Garden, Encinitas
http://sdbgarden.org/artfest.htm

Enjoy hundreds of art displays, cars, and live music this weekend at the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas. Admission costs $14, with discounts available for seniors, military, students, and children.

SoCal Corgi Beach Day
10:00 am – 3:00 pm, April 9
Huntington Dog Beach, Huntington Beach
http://www.socalcorgination.com/

Corgi lovers and Corgi owners unite this Saturday afternoon for a dog day at the beach, free to attend and for all ages. Share your love of this wonderful breed by showing off your adorable companion or by showing love for someone else’s adorable companion.

21st Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 9-10
University of Southern California, Los Angeles
http://events.latimes.com/festivalofbooks/

Immerse yourself in a world of literature this weekend on the USC campus, completely free to attend. In addition to finding thousands of books here, visitors can expect live bands, poetry readings, chef demos, cultural entertainment, artists creating their work on-site, a photography exhibit, film screenings, discussion panels on some of today’s hottest topics, and so much more. Parking on campus costs $10, while the indoor seminars cost between $10 to $15 to attend.

5th Annual Healthy Living Festival
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 9-10
Del Mar Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall, Del Mar
http://www.healthylivingfestival.com/

Check out this health & wellness expo this weekend, FREE to attend for all ages! Guests can experience cooking demos, medical testing, belly dancers, fitness workshops, food & drink samples, massages, speakers, fitness tests, yoga classes, speakers, and more.

2016 Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire: Opening Day
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, April 9
Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, Irwindale
http://www.renfair.com/socal/

This renaissance faire will run from this Saturday through May 22nd this year. Admission costs $29 for adults or $15 for children.

San Diego BBQ Fest 2016
11:00 am – 4:00 pm, April 9
SILO in Makers Quarter, San Diego
http://eliteeventssd.com/

Enjoy an afternoon of food and craft beer in San Diego this Saturday. Admission comes in three tiers ($25, $40, and $75), and each provides a different amount of perks, from unlimited food and beer to just admission only. If you get any of the two lower admissions, bring cash to pay for food.

5th Annual Rhythm & Brews Music & Craft Beer Festival
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, April 9
Historic Downtown Vista Village, Vista
http://www.sdrhythmandbrews.com/

The San Diego Brewers Guild presents the Rhythm & Brews Music & Craft Beer Festival this Saturday afternoon in the historic Vista Village district. Now in its fifth year, this festival now contains over 50 breweries, nine music acts across three stages, and plenty of food for sale from local businesses. General admission costs $45 presale or $50 at the door, starts at 1pm, and comes with a souvenir glass good for unlimited beer tastings. VIP admission costs $55 presale only, and starts an hour earlier at 12pm. No one under 21 may attend.

KROQ Craft Beer Festival
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, April 9
Santa Anita Park, Arcadia
http://www.santaanita.com/events/kro/

Party with hundreds of other people this Saturday afternoon at the Santa Anita racetrack in Arcadia. The $5 admission gets you access to food trucks, lawn games, live music, horse racing, and the beer garden. Bring plenty of cash to pay for food and beer. Upgrade to the $30 VIP admission for backstage access, two drink scrips, a souvenir hat, and more.

8th Annual Los Angeles Beer Fest
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, April 9
LA Center Studios, Los Angeles
http://www.drinkeatplay.com/labeerfest/

Everyone’s favorite drunk fest returns to Los Angeles this Saturday. This festival allows attendees to drink unlimited beers while enjoying live music from local bands. Food trucks will sell their delicious foods to hungry guests. Tickets cost $40, but does not include parking.

Balboa Craft Beer Festival 2016
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, April 9
Balboa Village, Newport Beach
http://www.balboabeerfest.com/

Enjoy beach weather and craft beer this Saturday afternoon near Balboa Island. General admission costs $55, and includes unlimited beer AND food. No one under 21 may attend.

Innovation Brew Works One Year Anniversary Celebration
1:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 9
Innovation Brew Works, Pomona
http://www.ibrewworks.com/

This young Pomona microbrewery turns a year old this week, and to celebrate, they will have an anniversary party at their tasting room this Saturday. Admission ranges from $10 to $30, and each type of admission will provide varying levels of beer and other goodies. Check their website linked above for a full breakdown of what each level of admission gets.

5th Annual Anaheim Citrusfest
4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 9
Farmers Park, Anaheim
http://anaheimpackingdistrict.com/

Check out this FREE and all-ages event in Anaheim this Saturday afternoon, filled with lots of family-friendly activities.

Bane: Live in Southern California
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 9, Union Nightclub, Los Angeles http://www.unionclubla.com/event/1071657-bane-final-los-angeles-los-angeles/
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, April 10, The Observatory’s Constellation Room, Santa Ana http://www.observatoryoc.com/event/bane
http://www.banecentral.com/

Hardcore band Bane currently tours across the nation, and that tour will swing through Southern California this weekend. Ticket prices to these shows vary, so click on a show’s link for pricing details.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990) @ The Frida Cinema
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm, April 9
The Frida Cinema, Santa Ana
http://thefridacinema.org/event/tmnt/

Come watch the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie this Saturday night in Santa Ana. Attendees will also get treated to pizza, trivia, prizesm giveaways, photo opportunities with the characters, and more. Admission costs $17, or add $1 more to receive a Foot Clan headband.

Mad Parade @ Cafe NELA
8:30 pm – 12:30 am, April 9
Cafe NELA, Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/931104043647949/

Rock out to some local punk rock bands this Saturday night in northeast Los Angeles. The cover for this show costs $7. No one under 21 may enter. Guests can find plenty of free street parking around.

Bubble Run Irvine
8:00 am – 12:00 pm, April 10
Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Irvine
http://www.bubblerun.com/upcoming-locations/irvine-ca/

Tired of the same 5k run everywhere? If you have had your fill of color runs and glow runs, try your hand at the Bubble Run. Participants wear all white and run through colored foam bogs in this 5k race. Registration costs $50, and all levels of runners may participate. Space will fill up fast, so register early, and try to carpool to this event.

10th Annual Cambodian New Year Parade
9:00 am – 12:00 pm, April 10
Anaheim St, Long Beach
http://www.cam-cc.org/

Catch a free public parade this Sunday morning in Cambodia Town in Long Beach that celebrates the Cambodian New Year. Arrive early to find adequate parking.

6th Annual Session Fest
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm, April 10
Eagle Rock Brewery, Eagle Rock
http://eaglerockbrewery.com/events/session

On the opposite side of strong ales lie session beers – beers lower in alcohol content while maximizing flavor. Brewers created session ales so that craft beer lovers can drink more in a session without going overboard, especially with strong ales or hoppy beers. Eagle Rock Brewery started Session Fest to encourage new craft beer drinkers to enjoy what breweries can offer, and they will repeat the fest again this Sunday. For just $15, guests will receive three pints of any session beer featured at the tasting room, in addition to keeping the glass they receive to drink out of. Guests may purchase additional drink tickets if desired. No one under 21 may participate.

Peelander-Z @ Alex’s Bar
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, April 10
Alex’s Bar, Long Beach
http://www.alexsbar.com/event/1098379-peelander-z-long-beach/

Enjoy a night of punk and ska this Sunday at Alex’s Bar in Long Beach. The cover for this show costs $8. No one under 21 may enter.

Upcoming Events: April 13-19, 2015

The Factory Gastrobar’s Grilled Cheese Week
April 13-19
The Factory Gastrobar, Bixby Knolls, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/1570393353209281/

The Factory crafts some amazing artisan grilled cheese sandwiches, and for the next seven days, they will sling a different variation of grilled cheese each day. If you love grilled cheeses as much as I do, you ought to visit The Factory everyday this week.

Free Sprinkles Day: 10 Year Anniversary
9:00 am – 9:00 pm, April 13
Sprinkles Cupcakes, Nationwide
http://www.facebook.com/events/1588763341371569/

Visit any participating Sprinkles Cupcakes today to receive one FREE cupcake!

Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day
12:00 pm – 8:00 pm, April 14
Ben & Jerry’s, Worldwide
http://www.benjerry.com/scoop-shops/free-cone-day

Get one FREE ice cream cone this Tuesday at any participating Ben & Jerry’s store.

Roar in The Shore
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, April 15
Legends, Belmont Shore, Long Beach
http://www.belmontshore.org/events.html

Completely free to attend, guests can view race cars on displays, and receive racer autographs.

Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2015
11:00 am – 10:00 pm, April 16
10:00 am – 10:00 pm, April 17-18
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, April 19
Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim
http://www.starwarscelebration.com/

Star Wars fans rejoice! This weekend, a massive Star Wars expo comes to Southern California at the Anaheim Convention Center. Find all things Star Wars here, such as collectibles, merchandise, apparel, art, literature, special guests, screenings, seminars, and more. Admission varies in price, with single-day admission ranging from $60 to $75, children costing $35, and a weekend pass for $140.

Lagunitas Tap Takeover
4:20 pm – 10:00 pm, April 16
Select Beer Store, Redondo Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/806278599455499/

Select Beer Store in Redondo Beach will have a Lagunitas tap takeover this Thursday night. No admission required – simply show up and order as you go.

22nd Annual Wild & Crazy Taco Night
4:30 pm – 7:30 pm, April 16
Share Our Selves, Costa Mesa
http://www.shareourselves.org/events/

25 of Orange County’s finest chefs will gather to prepare their most unusual and unique taco. Come witness history in the making, as chefs strive to reinvent the wheel by crafting the new generation of tacos. VIP hour starts at 4:30pm and costs $150, while general admission starts at 5:30pm and costs $80.

Tecate Light Thunder Thursday
6:30 pm – 10:30 pm, April 16
Pine & Broadway, Downtown Long Beach
http://www.downtownlongbeach.org/Latest-News-Detail/Tecate-Thunder-Thursday?id=64693

Completely free to attend for all ages, guests can catch motorcycle shows, race cars on display, racer autographs, a rock wall, live music, and more. Guests can find free parking for up to two hours in the structures east of Pine and north of 3rd.

Richie Ramone – Live in Long Beach
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm, April 16
Blacklight District Lounge, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/1822015921356349/

Come enjoy all your favorite Ramones hits this Thursday night in Long Beach. The cover for this show costs $10. No one under 21 may enter.

41st Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach
7:00 am – 9:00 pm, April 17-18
7:00 am – 5:30 pm, April 19
Long Beach Convention Center, Downtown Long Beach
http://www.gplb.com/

Catch all the excitement of the races all weekend in beautiful Downtown Long Beach, as the streets transform into a speed zone. Open to all ages, racing events take place throughout the day, so attendees can catch a race at most times of the day. Consult the website to further read about the race schedule, but know that the celebrity race takes place in the early afternoon on Saturday, and the grand prix takes place Sunday afternoon. Ticket prices vary by type, but a general admission weekend pass costs $70. The massive area that the grand prix covers features multiple entrances, so visitors do not need to seek out any particular entrance – just the entrance most convenient to them. All visitors must mind the increased traffic in & around Long Beach during this weekend, plus the multiple street closures. Preferably, public transportation remains the same price, so visitors should look into that option. As the races take place entirely outdoors, attendees should prepare for the excess heat with sunblock and plenty of hydration. Most if not all of the vendors accept cash only, but attendees can still access businesses in Shoreline Village, which will accept cards.

RVCA Warehouse Sale
9:00 am – 7:00 pm, April 17-19
RVCA Warehouse, Irvine
http://rvca.eventbrite.com/
http://www.rvca.com/b/post/warehouse-sale

If you like RVCA, check out their warehouse sale this weekend. Not only do you get to visit their warehouse, but you can score some great deals on apparel, accessories, and more. Guests can enter for free after waiting in an absurdly long line. No one under 13 may enter.

SoCal Etsy Guild Handmade Pop-Up Shop at Arts District Co-Op 1 Year Anniversary Celebration
12:00 pm – 8:00 pm, April 17/19
12:00 pm – 11:00 pm, April 18
Arts District Co-op, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/arts-district-co-op-1-year-anniversary-celebration-tickets-16406755046

Free to attend for all ages, the SoCal Etsy Guild will celebrate their first year anniversary this weekend with food trucks, art, vendors, live music, a full bar, and more.

Mission Brewery Tap Takeover
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 17
Alpine Village, Torrance
http://www.facebook.com/events/913327552018940/

Enjoy some brews from Mission Brewery as they take over the taps at Alpine Village this Friday night. No admission required – simply show up and order as you go.

Punk Show in Baldwin Park
6:00 pm – 1:00 am, April 17
American Legion Post 241, Baldwin Park
http://www.facebook.com/events/341360836059291/

Get your punk rock on this Friday night in Baldwin Park at this local all-ages show. The cover for this show costs $5, or enter for free if arriving before 7:30pm.

Raskahuele @ The Constellation Room
7:00 pm – 1:00 am, April 17
The Observatory’s Constellation Room, Santa Ana
http://www.observatoryoc.com/event/-raskahuele

Get your skanking on at this skacore show this Friday night in the Constellation Room at The Observatory this Friday night. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $12.

Chicks That Rock
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, April 17
Jimmy’s Place, Burbank
http://www.facebook.com/events/624590280974487/

Rock out at this local rock show this Friday night in Burbank. The cover for this show costs only $5. No one under 21 may enter.

1st Annual Guns ‘N Hoses Competition
9:00 am – 3:00 pm, April 18
Farmers Park, Anaheim
http://www.anaheimpa.com/about/guns-n-hoses

Come watch firefighters, police, and civilians compete in a charity fitness competition this Saturday at the Farmers Park in Anaheim, free to attend. In addition to the competition, visitors can take photos with SWAT and vintage firefighting vehicles, watch a K9 demo, enjoy a performance by the OC Law Girls, watch a police vs. firefighter tug-o-war, browse vendors, enter a 50/50 raffle, and more. Guests over 21 can also enjoy a beer garden starting at 11am. Have lunch at the nearby Umami Burger any time on Saturday, and they will donate 10% of the proceeds to the competition’s charity.

24th Annual Poppy Festival
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 18-19
Lancaster City Park, Lancaster
http://www.poppyfestival.com/

Bring out the family to this all-ages family-fun festival this weekend in Lancaster. This festival will have plenty of activities for everyone to get involved with, along with food, drinks, multiple vendors, music, dance, art, games, rides, and more. Admission for regular adults costs $8, while children, seniors, and military can enter for $5.

20th Annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 18-19
University of Southern California, Los Angeles
http://events.latimes.com/festivalofbooks/

Immerse yourself in a world of literature this weekend on the USC campus, completely free to attend. In addition to finding thousands of books here, visitors can expect live bands, poetry readings, chef demos, cultural entertainment, artists creating their work on-site, a photography exhibit, film screenings, discussion panels on some of today’s hottest topics, and so much more.

3rd Annual Riverside Tamale Festival
11:00 pm – 7:00 pm, April 18
White Park, Riverside
http://riversidetamalefestival.weebly.com/

Enjoy Hispanic food and culture this Saturday afternoon in Riverside. Admission costs only $1, but all guests must pay for tamales at cost, so bring cash for that.

L.A. Local Craft Beer & Artisan Food Fest
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, April 18
Alpine Village, Torrance
http://www.alpinevillagecenter.com/events/los-angeles-craft-beer-food-fest/

Check out the best of local food and beer at this tasting event this Saturday afternoon at Alpine Village in Torrance. Admission costs $40 and provides access to unlimited food and beer tastings while supplies last. No one under 21 may attend.

15th Annual Taste of Hillcrest
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, April 18
5th & Robinson, Hillcrest, San Diego
http://fabuloushillcrest.com/events/taste-of-hillcrest-2013/

Savor the flavors of all the amazing eateries in Hillcrest this Saturday afternoon. Over 40 restaurants will offer delicious samples to guests, while a handful of local breweries will provide beer tasters for guests. Admission costs $30 presale and $35 on the day of the event. Admission includes 50 taster tickets, and each location accepts different amounts of tickets. Guests can move at their own pace, and select which locations to spend their tickets at.

2015 California Wine Festival – Dana Point
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, April 18
Lantern Bay Park, Dana Point
http://www.californiawinefestival.com/

Enjoy food and wine at this wine tasting event this Saturday afternoon in Dana Point. General admission costs $59 and starts at 1pm, early admission costs $79 and starts at 12pm, and VIP admission costs $99, starts at 12pm, and includes a few extra VIP perks.

Santa Monica Ukulele Festival
12:00 pm – 8:30 pm, April 18
Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica
http://www.santamonicaukulelefestival.com/

Enjoy ukulele music, check out ukulele products, and/or bring your own ukulele to share music at this music gathering in Santa Monica this Saturday. Admission costs $5, and parking costs $5.

5th Annual Brokechella
3:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 18
cARTel: Collaborative Arts LA, Downtown Los Angeles
http://brokechella.com/

Cannot afford to dump money on Coachella? Check out Brokechella, a miniature version of the money-guzzling concert, this Saturday in Downtown Los Angeles. Expose yourself to the variety of local art and music at this intimate experience, and keep your wallet happy too. Admission to this event costs $20 presale or $25 at the door. No one under 21 may attend.

Cosmo 7K – All Ladies Run/Walk
3:30 pm – 9:30 pm, April 18
Fairplex, Pomona
http://energyevents.com/cosmo7k-la

Only women can participate in this 7k fun run this Saturday! All participants receive complimentary snacks, a t-shirt, a souvenir martini glass, a goodie bag, and more.

OC Roller Girls – Roller Derby Rodeo
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 18
The Rinks, Huntington Beach
http://ocrollergirls.com/

Watch intense & brutal girl-on-girl action at this roller derby bout this Saturday night in Santa Ana. Tickets to this roller derby bout cost $15.

1st Annual A Taste of Downtown
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, April 18
Cooper Design Space, Downtown Los Angeles
http://downtownartwalk.org/gala/

Enjoy food, drinks, music, art, and more in Downtown LA this Saturday evening. General admission costs $45 presale or $65 at the door, while VIP admission costs $75 presale or $95 at the door – VIP admission gains priority entry and seating.

Night Nation Run – San Diego
6:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 18
Sleep Train Amphitheatre, Chula Vista
http://www.nightnationrun.com/san-diego-2015/

People always seem to want to find any way possible to make running less boring. Introducing Night Nation Run, a glow run that now involves EDM. Run a course complete with lights, glow sticks, lasers, EDM, and more. Registration costs $30 presale or $60 once presale registration runs out, and includes a t-shirt, a glow necklace, a goodie bag, and access to the after-party with more EDM.

Buck-O-Nine – Live in Southern California
8:30 pm – 1:30 am, April 18, The Casbah, Middletown, San Diego http://www.casbahmusic.com/event/5232
8:00 pm – 12:00 am, April 19, Slide Bar, Fullerton http://www.facebook.com/events/387635884729937/

Buck-O-Nine will headline two shows in Southern California this weekend. Each show has a different price and age limit, so click on the show’s link for more information.

Los Angeles Cocktail Classic
9:00 pm – 1:00 am, April 18
Park Plaza, Los Angeles
http://drinkeatplay.com/cocktailclassic/

Basically, rich people drinking with hundreds of other rich people. Admission costs $75 and includes all drinks while supplies last. Food comes at a separate cost, so have cash available for that. No one under 21 may enter. Dress code strictly enforced.

Grand Pacific Steam’s Steampunk Swapmeet
10:00 am – 4:00 pm, April 19
San Diego Lapidary Society, Linda Vista, San Diego
http://www.facebook.com/events/1415773082058104/

Steampunk fans will not want to miss this all-ages flea market for all things steampunk. Free to attend, visitors will find all sorts of vendors selling music, apparel, accessories, art, and more.

26th Annual San Diego Earth Fair
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, April 19
Balboa Park, San Diego
http://earthdayweb.org/

This FREE and all-ages Earth Day celebration takes place this Sunday at Balboa Park in San Diego. Bring the family out to enjoy this fair with art galleries, “green” food, arts & crafts, vendors, a parade, and more.

2015 Los Angeles Avocado Festival
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, April 19
Olvera Street, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.lafoodfestivals.com/

Dozens of food vendors will serve up delicious avocado eats along Olvera Street this Sunday afternoon. Free to attend for all ages, visitors can simply pay for the food that they want without the worry of paying to enter.

25th Annual Multi-Cultural Earth Day
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, April 19
WorldBeat Center, Balboa Park, San Diego
http://www.facebook.com/events/1592835090952858/

At this free and all-ages event, find live music, dance, arts & crafts, vegetarian food, and more.

Taco Madness 2015
2:00 pm – 7:00 pm, April 19
Villains Tavern, Downtown Los Angeles
http://tacomadness.brownpapertickets.com/

A bunch of taco businesses from across LA County will gather here this Saturday for an afternoon of slinging tacos. Admission costs $10 but does not include anything but entry – guests should bring plenty of cash to purchase tacos once inside.

Jonah Raydio, Brendon Small, and The Manx @ Grill ‘Em All
8:00 pm – 11:00 pm, April 19
Grill ‘Em All, Alhambra
http://www.facebook.com/events/860972927279783/

Brendon Small of Metalocalypse fame will visit Grill ‘Em All this Sunday night, which will accompany a performance by The Manx. No admission required, but the restaurant has limited space, so arrive early to secure your spot!

Upcoming Events: February 25 – March 3, 2013

Orange County Restaurant Week
Now through March 2
Various restaurants in Orange County
http://www.orangecountyrestaurantweek.com/

For one week, numerous restaurants in Orange County will offer prix-fixe multi-course meals, ranging from $10-20 for lunch and $20-40 for dinner.

2013 OC Music Awards Showcase Series Finals
7:30 pm – 11:30 pm, February 26
House of Blues, Anaheim
http://www.facebook.com/events/491275007570240/

This free and all-ages show will feature some of the nominated musicians for the OC Music Awards. Five different local artists will perform and compete for the title of Best Live Band awarded at the OC Music Awards in March. Come see the best of the 7-week series duke it out one last time.

Mustard Plug, Los Kung Fu Monkeys, Matamoska, Just Like Before, and more @ DiPiazzas
7:00 pm – 1:00 am, February 28
DiPiazzas, Long Beach
http://www.dipiazzas.com/index.php?option=com_events&task=view_detail&agid=1658&year=2013&month=02&day=28&Itemid=12

Ready for this ska show? Mustard Plug rarely plays on the west coast, so you do not want to miss out on this, plus the reunion of Just Like Before. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $10 presale and $13 at the door.

2013 Long Beach Health Freedom Expo
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, March 1-3
Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach
http://www.healthfreedomexpo.com/hfe/page.php?id=4

Seek out information about fresh, natural, and healthy living at this expo this weekend in Long Beach. Whereas other expos focus on sales and pushing products onto guests, this expo deals more with information and seminars, educating guests about a natural and healthy lifestyle. Tickets cost $20 for one day or $35 for the entire weekend pass. Parking costs $10, so I suggest parking in the neighborhood east of Alamitos Ave, or taking public transportation.

First Fridays
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, March 1
Various locations
Long Beach: http://firstfridayslongbeach.com/
Venice: http://www.abbotkinney1stfridays.com/

This monthly artwalk occurs on the first Friday of every month. Each location offers different activities, but most will contain food & drink specials, art exhibits & displays, street performers, and more. Venice and Long Beach have the two largest gatherings of all First Fridays. Other locations include Westchester, Fullerton, and City of Industry. Most First Fridays locations cost nothing to attend, while the local businesses uphold their standard rules (e.g. bars 21+ only).

Noche de Estrellas
6:30 pm – 10:30 pm, March 1
Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach
http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/events/info/noche_de_estrellas/

This all-ages Latin-themed party celebrates the sea stars of the aquarium. Live bands, DJ’s, dancers, and more will keep the Latin music going all throughout the night. Entry into this party comes with the cost of admission into the aquarium.

Beer Savage Art Show
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm, March 1
Noble Ale Works, Anaheim
http://www.facebook.com/events/616659161684018/

Independent artists from across the country fly in for one night to exhibit their work at Noble Ale Works this Friday night. Free to attend, this event will also feature a live DJ, food trucks, and a special beer release.

The Secret Affair – 60’s Night
9:00 pm – 1:00 am, March 1
Alex’s Bar, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/430639640351114/

Occurring on every month’s first Friday, this 60’s night at Alex’s Bar will play all vinyl music of motown, northern soul, boogaloo, 60’s pop, and more. Feel free to dress up too, as the bar staff will hold costume contests and dance contests.

Bake ‘N Buy Fundraiser + Bake Sale
11:00 am – 4:00 pm, March 2
Jones Coffee, Pasadena
http://www.facebook.com/events/227067910758518

Buy delicious treats from various chefs and bakers from around Los Angeles, or fill yourself up from the Grilled Cheese Truck at this fundraiser this Saturday in Pasadena.

Grand Park Downtown BookFest
11:00 am – 6:00 pm, March 2
Grand Park, Downtown Los Angeles
http://grandparkla.org/ai1ec_event/grand-parks-bookfest-2013/

Book lovers rejoice! Readers of all ages can enjoy this free gathering that brings together the joys of books and more. Live DJ’s will keep music on the entire time, and food trucks will keep hungry guests fed.

12th Annual Lantern Festival
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, March 2
Chinese American Museum, Los Angeles
http://www.camla.org/lanternfestival.html

This free and all-ages festival celebrates Chinese tradition with recreations of street fairs filled with illuminating lanterns, music, lion dance, interactive arts & crafts, and more, all culminating with a glow-in-the-dark dragon dance at the end of the day. Local food businesses will sell authentic Chinese food and drinks as well.

Upcoming Events: September 17-23, 2012

Taste of Arcadia
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm, September 17
Los Angeles County Arboretum, Arcadia
http://arcadiacachamber.org/ai1ec_event/taste-of-arcadia-sept-17/?instance_id=10684

The annual Taste of Arcadia returns TONIGHT, so for those planning to go, buy the $50 presale tickets now, or pay $60 at the door. More than 40 food vendors will serve samples, while over 30 other vendors will keep guests occupied between eats.

21st Annual Taste of Old Pasadena
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm, September 18
Old Town Pasadena
http://www.pfarcf.org/tasteofoldpasadena/

The Taste of Old Pasadena returns tomorrow to Old Town Pasadena. Over 30 diverse restaurants will sample their food & drinks for just $30 per person. Maps and signs will guide all attendees to find the food.

International Talk Like A Pirate Day
September 19
Everywhere
http://www.talklikeapirate.com/

As the name suggests, feel free to talk like a pirate this Wednesday all day. Just do not get in trouble for it. Yarr~

As a bonus, anyone who dons a full pirate outfit to any participating Krispy Kreme will receive a FREE dozen original glazed doughnuts!

Mitsuwa Hokkaido Fair
9:00 am – 8:00 pm, September 20-23
Mitsuwa Marketplace, all locations
http://mitsuwa.com/event/eevent.php?e=42

Much like the Mitsuwa Summer Fest, this FREE festival at all Mitsuwa Marketplaces now celebrates North Japan culture. Experience food, drinks, desserts, dance, music, games, and more from Northern Japanese culture.

Cerritos Taste of the Region
4:30 pm – 7:30 pm, September 20
Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, Cerritos
http://cerritos.org/chamber/about-the-chamber/programs-events/taste-of-the-region-business-expo

This “Taste of Cerritos” makes its annual return this Thursday to the same location, the Cerritos Performing Arts Center. Unlike other food fests in LA & OC, this event does not cost as much – attendees pay a low flat fee, then receive unlimited tastes once they enter. Over 30 restaurants will serve food samples, meaning attendees will certainly get a bang for their buck. Also, guests do not have to pay for parking here.

Last year’s participating restaurants:

LA Beer Week
September 20-30
Greater Los Angeles Area
http://www.labeerweek.com/

This 11-day beer celebration covers Los Angeles through Orange County, culminating in a beer fest on the last day in Downtown Los Angeles. During this period, virtually every restaurant, bar, gastropub, and any other craft beer establishment will host some sort of beer event. Literally hundreds of beer events will take place over 11 days in the Greater Los Angeles Area, so for an abridged list, visit the website linked above. Even the website cannot contain every single event! Check with your local favorite brewpub to find out how they will participate.

Big Orange Book Festival
1:00 pm – 9:00 pm, September 21
9:00 am – 9:00 pm, September 22
Chapman University, Orange
http://bigorangebookfestival.com/

Free to attend for all ages, this two-day book festival takes place at Chapman University in Orange this weekend. Come see hundreds of books, writers, live entertainment, food, speakers, and more.

Redondo Beach Lobster Fest
5:00 pm – 11:00 pm, September 21
12:00 am – 11:00 pm, September 22
12:00 am – 8:00 pm, September 23
Seaside Lagoon, Redondo Beach
http://lobsterfestival.com/

Three weekend lobster fests in a row! Following Long Beach and Los Angeles, Redondo Beach now has a Lobster Fest going on this weekend, which will have lots of fresh lobster for guests to eat. In addition, guests can enjoy dancing, games, rides, music, arts & crafts, and more. The $10 admission includes parking and entry into the fest, while all food comes separate, so anyone wanting to eat will have to bring extra cash. Purchase presale tickets online to save $2, or search their website for additional meal packages, such as surf & turf and more.

Dead Kennedys, JFA, Whitecaps, Anarchy Taco, Unit F @ The Observatory
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, September 21
The Observatory, Santa Ana
http://www.observatoryoc.com/events/dead-kennedys

The Dead Kennedys, JFA, Whitecaps, Anarchy Taco, and Unit F play a show this Friday at The Observatory in Santa Ana. This all-ages show costs $25. To Dead Kennedys fans, Jello has other priorities, and will not play with the band.

The Chocolate & Art Show (Experience)
7:00 pm – 2:00 am, September 21-23
KGB Studios, Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/446096902078260/

This three-night event filled with live music, art, NUDE BODY painting, and of course, chocolate will take over the KGB Studios in Los Angeles across from LA State Historic Park. For just a $10 cover, attendees will get to see over 150 artists, photographers, designers, body painters, and more. Live DJ’s will keep the venue loud and pumping, while you snack away at chocolate. Because of its location by the park, attendees can park for free on the street.

13th Annual Cruisin’ For A Cure Car Show
7:00 am – 3:00 pm, September 22
OC Fair & Events Center, Costa Mesa
http://www.cruisinforacure.com/

This charity car show returns to the OC Fair this Saturday morning. Admission costs $15, and includes free prostate testing. [sic]

OC Fest of Ales & Beer Run 5K
9:00 am – 3:30 pm, September 22
Center Street Promenade, Downtown Anaheim
http://www.ocfestofales.com/

This two-in-one fest combines a 5K run/walk with a beer fest immediately following. The 5K begins at 9am, while the main beer fest begins at 11:30am. Situated on the streets of Downtown Anaheim, the beer fest will feature over 100 different beers, a food truck food challenge, food & beer pairings, live music & entertainment, and more. As with any beer fest, no one under 21 can enter. Plenty of street parking surround Downtown Anaheim; otherwise, you can pay to park in one of the nearby structures.

Drink Good Beer Mash-Up & Homebrew Competition
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 22
The Factory Gastropub, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/DrinkGoodBeerMashUpHomebrewCompetition

The Factory Gastropub will host a beer fest and homebrewers competition in their parking lot this Saturday afternoon. Originally scheduled for September 2, presale tickets still sell for $25, while tickets will sell for $30 at the door. Over 30 local breweries will serve their beers to attendees, while homebrewers will sample their beers as well. Registration to enter you homebrews ended already, so if you want to enter your brew(s), you will have to wait until the next competition.

2012 Better Weather Fest
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, September 22
Golden Road Brewing, Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/341720145915669/

Golden Road Brewery will host their own beer fest this Saturday (just like everyone else). Presale tickets purchased before September 20 cost $30, then tickets cost $40 afterwards. Admission comes with five 6oz pours – additional pours cost $3 each. Attendees get treated to numerous breweries & beers, brewery tours, food trucks, live music, gifts & goodie bags, and more. Attendees can park on the streets surrounding the brewery.

Septemberfest
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, September 22
Santa Monica Pier
http://www.drinkeatplay.com/septemberfest/

America’s answer to Oktoberfest, this American spin on Oktoberfest will feature over 150 craft beers, food trucks, live bands, and more. Where Oktoberfest celebrates German culture, Septemberfest celebrates America and everything great about it. Presale tickets cost $40, while tickets at the door cost $50, if any remain.

10th Annual Tarfest Music & Art Festival
2:00 pm – 9:00 pm, September 22
La Brea Tar Pits, Los Angeles
http://www.tarfest.com/

This music & art festival returns this Saturday to the La Brea Tar Pits in West LA. Free to attend and open to all ages, guests will experience live music, live painting, beer & wine garden, food trucks, and more.

Autumn Lights
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, September 22
Pershing Square, Los Angeles
http://www.laparks.org/pershingsquare/autumnlights.html

Anyone who has gone to the Downtown LA Artwalk will see similarities in Autumn Lights. This light show makes its annual return to Pershing Square this Saturday night. Free to attend for all ages, lights turn on at 6pm, revealing “some very large scale sculptural light installations, interactive light and performances, life black light paintings, photo booth, and other visually interesting work.” If you like going to the Downtown LA Artwalk, you do not want to miss this.

2012 Zam Fest
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, September 23
University High School, West Los Angeles
http://www.zamfest.com/

Moving from Long Beach to Los Angeles this year, this arts & music festivals caters to children. Zam Fest features a plethora of activities for kids, such as art, baking, acting, sports, dance, music, crafting, and more. Some activities cost nothing, while others cost tickets, of which the website lists the prices.

2012 Harvest Moon Festival
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, September 23
Arcadia County Park, Arcadia
http://www.facebook.com/events/101430326675498/

Considered an Asian Thanksgiving, this all-ages Asian cultural festival will take place this Sunday afternoon at Arcadia County Park. Completely FREE to attend, guests will find food, drinks, desserts, live entertainment, games, rides, a kid’s area, and more. Guests can park for free at the Santa Anita Racetrack by entering Gate 5 and taking the shuttle once inside.

The International Chocolate Salon
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, September 23
Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, Santa Monica
http://www.lachocolatesalon.com/

Chocolate lovers will want to attend the International Chocolate Salon this Sunday afternoon in Santa Monica. $20-25 gets you all-you-can-eat chocolate.