GOGO13, CodeName: Rocky, and More Bring Ska to Downtown Pomona

The Inland Empire got a taste of ska this past Saturday night, as GOGO13 headlined this tiny show in the back room of the Glass House. This low-cost all-ages show brought together a handful of Southern California ska bands for a night full of fun and skanking. As this show took place in the back room, this small space could only comfortably hold no more than a hundred people – going over that amount would make the space very cramped. Somehow, the spacing worked out, allowing for a pit area of a decent size. By the time I had arrived at the show, I had completely missed the first act, and the second act had reached their final song, so I made do with the situation. Apologies to Jared P for not arriving on time for his set.

I had arrived at the Glass House during Skadonna‘s set. Basically, this ska band from Orange County covers songs by Madonna, such as Like A Virgin. I heard them end with Like A Prayer, and I will admit that listening to a bouncy version of that song threw me for a loop. I later found out that this show marked their first ever live performance. Good on them for finally making it to a public stage and gaining lots of fans in the process.

Finally situated in place, I first got to experience Two Tone Boners in all their glory. This ska band from El Monte brought forth an original set comprised of ska with punk rock elements, meaning the skanking pit saw some heavier circle pit action here. Also notably, this band features a keytar player, known for riling up a crowd as much as a cow bell. If they wanted to cover a song, they could have, yet still stuck to their own original songs.

The second of the night’s cover bands played next, as Skapeche Mode entered the room with their glorious outfits. As the band’s name may imply, this ska band from Los Angeles covers Depeche Mode songs using their weapons of brass. They played a shortened set, omitting a few songs from their set list. However, they still got to the songs most recognized by the audience. These guys not only played their songs, but danced around with the audience as well, spreading their joy and energy around the room.

Now free from their tour with Reel Big Fish, The Maxies would mark the last of the night’s opening bands. For those unfamiliar with The Maxies, picture The Aquabats, but an M-rated version. Therefore, The Maxies come across as a highly-offensive and lewd band that will throw every bad word in existence at the audience. They do not use traditional ska instruments, but rely on a keyboardist to synthesize music to sound like ska music, similar to The Aquabats. As a result, The Maxies gain greater freedom to play with a heavier punk rock feel than just ska, lending to an intense circle pit that resonated all night.

The first of the night’s headliners, CodeName: Rocky, started with some tempo buildup to get the audience pumped up. These guys have garnered quite a following since their inception in the 1990’s, and it showed with the enthusiasm in the audience. Once the music started flowing, the crowd revved the pit even further. As one of the prominent first bands of the third wave ska movement in Orange County, CodeName: Rocky picked up lots of fans fast, alongside today’s mainstream bands like No Doubt and Reel Big Fish. Keep an eye out for a new album coming out this year, as well as any more shows they will play, because they deliver a show that no one can ever forget.

Prior to the start of the final act of the night, the stage crew dimmed the lights and enabled a fog machine to set the mood for GOGO13. The crowd certainly felt the mood, as the entire room got to dancing, swinging, and skanking once the music started. GOGO13 kept their set mellow and smooth throughout, not really going for anything super fast that may cause people to start slamming into things. GOGO13 does more than just play music – they entertain crowds with their antics and acting. They may even cover popular songs during their set! GOGO13 truly deserves to headline shows, and I believe they deserve a larger crowd.

Every band has a Facebook page, so give them a Like to check out more from them! With the exception of Skadonna, every band also has a Twitter page, so give them a Follow!

Upcoming Events: March 17-23, 2014

St. Patrick’s Day
March 17
Worldwide

Too many places to name will do something special on this day, so check with your favorite local establishment to see what they have going on. Have a good time, and stay safe!

Burlesque Fandom Battle: Star Wars vs Star Trek
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm, March 18
Bar Lubitsch, West Hollywood
http://www.facebook.com/events/258706104303437/

The age-old debate of Star Wars versus Star Trek remains in a stalemate, and will remain that way for eternity. You can witness a more entertaining take on that debate this Tuesday night with this burlesque show depicting one world versus the other. The cover for this show costs $10. No one under 21 may enter.

Bottle Share @ The Rookery
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm, March 19
The Rookery, Pomona
http://www.facebook.com/events/785839171443598/

Share your favorite craft beer with other craft beer enthusiasts at this bottle share this Wednesday night in Downtown Pomona. Bring in a 750ml bottle of craft beer and order at least $10 of food in order to participate. Guests can find plenty of free parking in the area, and can avoid paying for parking entirely.

Scrapbook Expo – Orange County
10:00 pm – 6:00 pm, March 20-22
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.

IPA & Curry Night
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, March 20
Beachwood BBQ, Seal Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/663635343693616/

Beachwood BBQ returns with another special food night. This time, they will serve five variations of curry, similar to Curry Night last year. In addition, catch special IPA pairings for each curry variation. No reservations required – simply show up, have a seat, and order!

7th Annual Musink Tattoo & Music Festival
3:00 pm – 11:00 pm, March 21
12:00 pm – 11:00 pm, March 22
12:00 pm – 10:00 pm, March 23
OC Fair & Events Center, Costa Mesa
http://musink.org/

Welcome to Musink, an all-ages music, tattoo, skateboarding, and pin-up festival that takes place at the OC Fairgrounds this weekend. Some of the largest names in punk rock will perform this weekend, such as The Descendents and The Vandals. Over 300 tattoo artists from around the world will fly in for the weekend. Tickets will remain on sale until the end of the fest on Sunday, so do not worry about not obtaining a ticket. Bring cash, as most of the vendors do not accept cards. Parking costs $10 per vehicle, so I highly recommend carpooling or getting dropped off.

Free Punk Show @ Blacklight District Lounge
7:00 pm – 2:00 am, March 21
Blacklight District Lounge, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/582092611881278/

Catch a free local punk rock show this Friday night in Long Beach. No one under 21 may attend.

Free Punk Show @ The World Famous Doll Hut
8:00 pm – 2:00 am, March 21
The World Famous Doll Hut, Anaheim
http://www.facebook.com/events/226477260890909/

Take our some inner aggression at this free show this Friday night in Anaheim. No one under 21 may enter.

Dirty Ass Punk Night
9:00 pm – 2:00 am, March 21
Loaded Hollywood, Hollywood
http://www.facebook.com/events/1480269448867416/

Local punk bands hit up Hollywood this Friday night. Check out this fun lineup for just $5 at Loaded Hollywood. No one under 21 may enter.

The Zombie Run Extreme/Black Ops – Los Angeles
9:00 am – 10:00 pm, March 22
Acton Movie Ranch, Acton
http://thezombierun.com/location/socal/

You never truly run a 5k or obstacle course until you have to run it under fear! This two-part zombie run places you in the shoes of a survivor or zombie. In the morning, participate in a 5K obstacle course, where you can register as a fleeing human, or as a zombie seeking to capture the humans. At night, participate in the same setup, but under the cover of darkness with little to no light. Registration varies depending on the course, time, and role, starting as low as $45 for a single zombie.

3rd Annual Winners’ Circle BBQ Championship
10:30 am – 4:00 pm, March 22
Santa Anita Park, Arcadia
http://santaanitabbq.com/

Enjoy some traditional BBQ meats this Saturday afternoon at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. Admission to this all-ages food fest costs around $12 per person, and once inside, tasting tickets cost $1 each. Each vendor takes a varying amount of tickets depending on the item offered.

Holi on the Beach 2013
11:00 am – 3:00 pm, March 22
Will Rogers State Beach, Pacific Palisades
http://www.aidla-events.org/holionthebeach/

Missed Festival of Colors last weekend? You have another chance at it this Saturday. For those unfamiliar with Holi, if you have ran in a color run before, Holi takes the running part out of it, and adds music, dancing, and other activities, such as yoga. Celebrate Indian culture by getting covered with color and listening to entrancing music. Admission to this all-ages events costs $10 presale and $15 on the day of the event. The first 150 cars receive $2 off the parking fee, so try to arrive early! Most importantly – wear old clothes, and keep spare towels in your car.

Let There Be Light: A Spring Equinox Design Fair
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm, March 22-23
405 Mateo St, Downtown LA Arts District
http://parachutemarket.com/

This all-ages design fair showcases the latest seasonal trends in furniture, objects, fine arts, sculptures, and fashion. Tickets cost $8 presale and $10 at the door, and admit you for one day only. Attendees should park at any metered parking spot on the streets nearby, which only requires coinage until 4pm. Attendees can park on the street for free on Sunday.

FirkFest – A Cask Ale Festival
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, March 22
Anaheim Farmers Park, Anaheim
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/539158

Craft beer fans will want to travel to Anaheim this Saturday, as Anaheim hosts FirkFest, a beer fest with only cask ales. FirkFest will feature over 30 breweries, and costs $50 to get in. Use promo code mothercolony to save $10! No one under 21 may attend.

Sam Fest – The Inaugural Los Angeles Barleywine Festival
12:00 pm – 2:00 am, March 22
38 Degrees Ale House, Alhambra
http://38degreesalhambra.com/event/sam-fest-the-inaugural-los-angeles-barleywine-festival/

This Saturday, 38 Degrees will tap over 30 different barleywines in honor of Sam Samaniego, a beer enthusiast who traveled to Toronado Barleywine Festival annually. Come enjoy some barleywines, and check out some of the rare beers available too. This event requires no admission fee – simply show up, and pay as you drink. Guests can park for free in the parking lot behind the restaurant.

Ska Night @ The Glass House
6:00 pm – 11:00 pm, March 22
Glass House, Pomona
http://www.theglasshouse.us/event/503029-code-name-rocky-gogo-13-pomona/

Get your skanking on this Saturday night in Pomona with this great lineup of local ska bands. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $10. Guests can park for free around Downtown Pomona, so avoid paying for parking where possible.

Punk Night @ The World Famous Doll Hut
8:00 pm – 2:00 am, March 22
The World Famous Doll Hut, Anaheim
http://www.facebook.com/events/1377882519125212/

For just $5, rock out with some great local punk rock bands at the Doll Hut in Anaheim. No one under 21 may attend.

CH3 @ Redwood Bar
9:00 pm – 1:00 am, March 22
Redwood Bar, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/247991278713224/

CH3 headlines a small show this Saturday night in Downtown Los Angeles. The cover for this show costs $8. No one under 21 may enter. Street parking meters go off at 8pm, so guests can park on the street for free.

Naked Aggression @ Billy O’s
9:00 pm – 2:00 am, March 22
Billy O’s Restaurant & Saloon, Ventura
http://www.facebook.com/events/741595079186066/

Naked Aggression will headline a small local show this Saturday night in Ventura. The cover for this show costs $8. No one under 21 may attend.

Los Angeles Seafood Festival
10:00 am – 6:00 pm, March 23
Olvera Street, Downtown Los Angeles
http://www.lafoodfestivals.com/

Dozens of food vendors will serve up delicious seafood 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.

Voodoo Glow Skulls @ Dipiazza’s
6:00 pm – 12:00 am, March 23
Dipiazza’s, Long Beach
http://www.dipiazzas.com/index.php?option=com_events&task=view_detail&agid=2048&year=2014&month=03&day=23&Itemid=12

Voodoo Glow Skulls currently tours along the west coast, and they will swing by Long Beach for an all-ages show this Sunday night. Although not specified, this show should cost around $10.

Bouncing Back At The 4th Annual Ska Luau with Starpool and More

Returning for its fourth year running, the Ska Luau IV took over the House of Blues at Downtown Disney in Anaheim this past Monday night. This all-ages show combines two worlds, bringing the traditional family-friendly dances of a luau to a ska/punk rock show. In an effort to spread cultural awareness, prior to the start of any of the bands, all early arrivals could watch traditional Pacific Island dances, adding some culture to a night where ska kids and ska fashion bled out like a barbecue stain on a white shirt. Sadly for this show, the House of Blues did not allow anyone to take pictures with flash on, which reduced the overall quality of my photos. Nonetheless, I would like to say great job to everyone in Magnolia High School’s Polynesian Dance Troupe for putting on an excellent opening performance for the night.

With the island dancers done, the room shifted face, as most of the parents and children left, and all the ska kids filled the floor. Up first, CodeName: Rocky hit the stage to deliver their ska-punk set. It did not take long for the floor to erupt into a full-fledged pit, as the crowd simply forgot how to skank and resorted to a mindless circle pit. CodeName: Rocky played a solid uninterrupted 30-minute set, setting the stage for not only the bands to follow in the night, but for their upcoming show this Sunday night in Long Beach.

The greatest conundrum in music stepped forth next, as Save The Swim Team appeared for their final show together as a band. Why have I not seen these guys in the past? Representing a fusion of genres unlike no other, I can only appropriately call them a ska-reamo band. Who would think to play hopping ska music, then throw screams into it? Only Save The Swim Team has done so, and following this night, no one else does it. If you have not seen them live, search for their music on YouTube, and become a believer. Farewell Save The Swim Team – I barely knew you, yet you will have a lasting impression on my heart.

Disneyland visitors would get a kick out of the next band, which occasionally plays in Tomorrowland. Say hello to Suburban Legends, one of the most entertaining bands this side of Orange County. As one of today’s more influential ska bands, Suburban Legends has garnered quite a following across the nation with their style of performing. When these guys play, they do more than just play music – they put on a show. Suburban Legends incorporates music, dance, acrobatics, acting, and crowd participation to generate a show to remember for ages. With a set lasting 45 minutes, the crowd received 45 minutes of pure rallying and dancing, just enough to get our hearts pumping and amped for the final band. Make sure you catch these guys touring with Reel Big Fish starting TONIGHT and running across the nation.

Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome our ska hosts for the evening: Starpool! If you have not heard of Starpool, you have not lingered around Orange County enough. Just as much as Narcoleptic Youth represents OC hardcore punk, Starpool represents OC ska. After all, without Starpool, we would not have the awesomeness known as the Ska Luau. Starpool kicked off their set with a bang as confetti launchers covered the air with the little strips of paper raining down on the crowd for the entirety of the first song. From there, Starpool delivered hit after hit with the occasional crowd interaction, which included handing out glow sticks, inviting some fans to dance on stage, throwing out chocolate phalluses, and trombone player Tbone Willy diving onto the crowd in a giant inflatable ball. Words cannot describe what transpired at this Ska Luau – you would have to attend for yourself to believe it all!

The Ska Luau takes place roughly the same time of year every year, and has always taken place at the House of Blues Anaheim. Stay tuned for the 5th Ska Luau next year, as they could possibly add a second night if the fans demand it enough!

Upcoming Events: December 2-8, 2013

Free Punk Show in Downtown LA
8:00 pm – 2:00 am, December 3
Redwood Bar, Los Angeles
http://www.facebook.com/events/238611659637080/

Find drink specials and local punk rock bands in Downtown Los Angeles this Tuesday night. No one under 21 may enter.

Dirty Little Secrets Rock Burlesque – First Wednesdays @ The Copper Door
8:00 pm – 12:00 am, December 4
The Copper Door, Downtown Santa Ana
http://www.facebook.com/events/179766825553233/

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.

The Five Chef Societe II – Duck Tales
6:30 pm – 9:30 pm, December 5
Handlery Hotel, Mission Valley, San Diego
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/496171

For $75, treat yourself to a 5-course duck dinner complete with craft beer pairings. Buy your ticket TODAY to save $15! Guests may park for free in the hotel’s parking lot, despite the automated gate. No one under 21 may participate.

The Flatliners in Corona
6:30 pm – 12:30 am, December 5
Maya’s Café, Corona
http://www.facebook.com/events/1424483931113687/

Catch punk bands The Flatliners, Slow Children, and more in Corona this Thursday night. Entry to this all-ages show cost $10 and will likely hit capacity, so arrive early!

35th Annual Balboa Park December Nights
3:00 pm – 11:00 pm, December 6
12:00 pm – 11:00 pm, December 7
Balboa Park, San Diego
http://www.balboapark.org/decembernights

This free and all-ages event allows visitors to check out the museums of Balboa Park free of charge, and enjoy the live holiday-themed entertainment.

Progressive International Motorcycle Show – Long Beach
4:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 6
9:30 am – 8:00 pm, December 7
10:00 am – 5:00 pm, December 8
Long Beach Convention Center, Downtown Long Beach
http://www.motorcycleshows.com/long-beach

See all-things motorcycles this weekend at the Long Beach Convention Center. Admission varies, with a one-day adult general admission costing $15.

First Fridays
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, December 6
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).

Uptown Village Market
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, December 6
11:00 am – 5:00 pm, December 7
Expo Arts Center, Bixby Knolls, Long Beach
http://uptownvillagemarket.com/

Local artists and vendors will display and sell their wares at this FREE art fest. Guests can look at some interesting works of art, while browsing through all the merchandise available to purchase. The organizers will provide free refreshments, while live bands and singers will keep guests entertained.

Street Dogs @ Chain Reaction
6:30 pm – 12:30 am, December 6
Chain Reaction, Anaheim
http://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/416271

Street Dogs go on a quick tour across the country for just a month, starting in Southern California this Friday night. Tickets to this all-ages show cost $18, and will likely sell out fast. Attendees can find free street parking on S Loara St.

Free Punk Show in Lomita
9:00 pm – 12:00 am, December 6
The Firehouse, Lomita
http://www.facebook.com/events/222751601182548/

See local punk bands perform for free in Lomita this Friday night. No one under 21 may enter.

The Secret Affair – 60’s Night
9:00 pm – 1:00 am, December 6
Alex’s Bar, Long Beach
http://www.alexsbar.com/event/148117

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.

Piecemakers Christmas “Under the Stars” Crafts Fair
9:00 am – 4:00 pm, December 7
Piecemakers Country Store, Costa Mesa
http://piecemakerschristmasvillage.blogspot.com/

Hundreds of local vendors will sell their merchandise and creations at this free outdoor fair this weekend. Kids can enjoy hay rides and other activities, while food trucks will serve food to guests.

2013 Downtown Pomona Christmas Parade
10:00 am – 12:00 pm, December 7
2nd Street, Downtown Pomona
http://www.downtownpomona.org/events-calendar/christmas-parade-2013/

Looking for a Christmas parade to bring your friends & family to? Check out Downtown Pomona this Saturday morning for a free parade. Parking meters shut off for that day, so guests can park for free.

Pugachev’s Cobra Release & Barrel-Aged Beers Party
11:00 am – 4:00 pm, December 7
Hangar 24 Brewery, Redlands
http://www.hangar24brewery.com/h24pugafest.htm

Like Santa Claus, Hangar 24’s bourbon barrel-aged Russian Imperial Stout, Pugachev’s Cobra, makes its annual return this month. Starting this Saturday at their tasting room at the brewery in Redlands, beer lovers can obtain Pugachev’s Cobra on draft and/or in bottles to take home. In addition, Hangar 24 will serve plenty of other barrel-aged beers on this day to commemorate the release of this year’s Pugachev’s Cobra. Tickets to this tasting event cost $25 and comes with 8 coupons good for a 4 oz. pour each.

6th Annual Unique LA Holiday Show
11:00 am – 6:00 pm, December 7-8
The California Market Center, Downtown Los Angeles
http://stateofunique.com/unique-la/

Their website describes this event best: “The largest independent design show in the country, attendees get the rare chance to meet and shop directly from over 350 hand-selected designers and artists. The exciting two-day shopping event makes it easy for you to buy local and support LA’s economy, discover great design and deals, join in community, and have a blast.” The $10 admission allows for unlimited reentry for both days, and anyone buying presale online will receive a free tote bag. Guests over 21 can receive free cocktails, while all guests may receive other free drinks, like teas and waters. The show will also feature some of LA’s most popular restaurants and food trucks serving their delicious food. Parking directly at the venue costs $6, while nearby parking lots will range from $3-5.

2nd Annual Orange County Brew Ho Ho
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, December 7
Phoenix Club, Anaheim
http://ocbrewhoho.com/

From the creators of OC Brew Ha Ha comes the OC Brew Ho Ho Holiday Ale Festival! Join me this Saturday for an afternoon of UNLIMITED beer tastings, food, music, holiday shopping, and more. As one of the year’s final beer fests, expect to ring in 2014 with some rare and unreleased beers, including Hangar 24’s Pugachev’s Cobra. In addition to the beer and food, OC Brew Ho Ho will also feature a merchandise expo, allowing attendees to do some holiday shopping while drinking beer. Tickets cost $55 and comes with free parking, a souvenir glass, and all access to all areas of the fest. As with any beer fest, all attendees must show ID, and nobody under 21 may enter.

3rd Annual Konsept Art & Music Festival
2:00 pm – 10:00 pm, December 7
Fiesta Twin Theatre, Santa Ana
http://www.facebook.com/events/549794795088407/

This free and all-ages outdoors events features art, music, fashion, photography, live entertainment, and more, all rolled into one street fest.

CodeName: Rocky in Long Beach
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 7
A-Lot, 7th & Pine, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/181047838757003/

CodeName: Rocky headlines an all-ages show in Long Beach this Saturday night. Entry only costs $5.

The Under Construction Birthday Bash – Free Punk Show
5:00 pm – 1:00 am, December 7
13th Frame Lounge, La Habra
http://www.facebook.com/events/667595046606876/

Catch a FREE and all-ages show this Saturday night in La Habra, featuring ten local punk bands.

31st Annual Belmont Shore Christmas Parade
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 7
2nd Street, Belmont Shore, Long Beach
http://www.belmontshore.org/events.html

This year’s Christmas parade’s theme focuses on our troops and veterans. Police will close 2nd Street beginning at 5pm from Livingston through Bay Shore. As one of Belmont Shore’s most popular annual events, parking fills up intensely within a mile radius. I recommend parking way away and either bike or walk to Belmont Shore.

Free Punk Show in Long Beach
9:00 pm – 2:00 am, December 7
Blacklight District Lounge, Long Beach
http://www.facebook.com/events/456680331106964/

Local punk bands tear it up in Long Beach this Saturday night. No one under 21 may enter.

Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, December
Manhattan Beach Pier
http://www.pubclub.com/losangeles/fireworks.htm

This Sunday night, many streets near the Manhattan Beach Pier will close, as thousands of spectators gather to watch fireworks (which start at 7pm), dance, drink, mingle, and more. Completely free to attend, expect chaos with this many people. Arrive early to snag a good parking spot.

Angel City Gifts Bazaar
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm, December 8
Angel City Brewery, Downtown Los Angeles
http://angelcitybrewery.com/events/angel-city-gifts-bazaar-3/

Free to attend, visitors will find holiday merchants, food trucks, live music, and lots of beer.

Upcoming Events: July 22-28, 2013

LA Restaurant Week
Now through July 26
Greater Los Angeles Area
http://www.discoverlosangeles.com/dinela-los-angeles-restaurant-week

Hundreds of restaurants in the Greater Los Angeles Area will participate in this 12-day feast. All participating restaurants will offer either discounts on select items, or prix-fixe menus.

US Open of Surfing
Now through July 28
Huntington Beach, south of the pier
http://www.usopenofsurfing.com/

This week-long competition takes place on the shore south of Huntington Beach Pier. Come see professional and amateur surfers compete to take a spot for the ASP World Tour. Visitors will also find skateboarding demos and live music all week. Completely free to attend, this weekend will see thousands of spectators on the beach for the US Open. Expect heavy traffic all week. Try to find parking in the neighborhoods, but prepare to walk a long distance if choosing to park in neighborhoods, since the neighborhoods closer to the beach will remain full all week.

Downtown Anaheim Art & Pub Crawl
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, July 25
Center Street Promenade, Downtown Anaheim
http://www.downtownanaheim.com/artandpubcrawl

At this FREE and all-ages event, the weekly farmer’s market will remain open for an extra hour for special art exhibits, live music, food, a beer & wine garden, and more. Visitors may park for free in the parking structure located at S Clementine Street and W Oak Street. Note that the website says the event starts at 5pm, while the flyer says 4pm.

11th Annual Taste of the Pacific Islands
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm, July 25
Bali Hai Restaurant, San Diego
http://www.pifasandiego.com/taste_of_Pifa.htm

Get a taste of Islander cuisine this Thursday night near Liberty Station. Admission to this all-ages tasting costs $25 presale and $30 at the door, and includes all food, non-alcoholic drinks, access to a silent auction, arts & crafts vendors, live entertainment, and more.

Glassjaw Live
7:30 pm – 1:30 am, July 25 @ The Echoplex, Los Angeles http://www.theecho.com/event/296271-glassjaw-los-angeles/
7:00 pm – 1:00 am, July 26 @ The Glass House, Pomona http://www.theglasshouse.us/event/293703-glassjaw-pomona/

Glassjaw has returned from their long hiatus for a small yet highly anticipated tour that stops by Southern California this weekend. Tickets to these all-ages shows have sold out long ago, but you may find after-market tickets available.

Drenched 5k – Los Angeles
7:30 am – 12:30 pm, July 27
Exposition Park, Los Angeles
http://rundrenched.com/events/los-angeles/

Experience the wettest 5k ever this Saturday morning! This all-ages fun run’s course comes equipped with mist tunnels, sprinklers, hoses, foam, water slides, and other wet contraptions. At random points throughout the course, expect “hot zones” that attempt to partially dry you off as you venture into the next wet area. Following the fun run, stick around for the Drenched after party that will last a few hours following the run. Registration costs $55 online and $65 on the day of the run, while individuals on a team of four or more pay $50 each. Registration comes with sunglasses, a t-shirt, and 25 water balloons (that you must fill yourself). Spectators may attend for free, but do not receive any goodies that the participants will. Wear comfortable clothing that you can move freely in that you do not mind getting wet, and bring spare clothes and towels for when the run ends. Bring cash for parking, as well as for food should anyone want to buy something to eat.

Long Beach Dragonboat Fest
9:00 am – 6:00 pm, July 27-28
Marine Stadium, Long Beach
http://www.lbdragonboat.com/

Come watch numerous teams race Dragonboats in Marine Stadium, with the finals on Sunday. Expect to see Chinese traditional art demonstrations, Chinese Acrobats, traditional dance, hip hop, music and martial arts performances. Spectators may attend and watch for free – for a recap, please see my post from last year’s races.

5th Annual Venice Beach Summer Fest
10:00 am – 7:00 pm, July 27-28
Venice Beach
http://www.fx3events.com/

See arts, crafts, music, food, drinks, and more at Venice Beach this weekend, free admission. Keep in mind the heavy traffic near this area this weekend. Expect to park somewhere near Abbot Kinney and walk to the beach from there.

Bottle Share #6
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, July 27
38 Degrees Ale House, Alhambra
http://www.facebook.com/events/603425439692314/

Brew your own beer? Got an interested craft beer to share? Bring it to 38 Degrees’ monthly bottle share event, taking place this Saturday afternoon, and discover other great beers too. Free to attend, guests should bring approximately 40-50 ounce’s worth of beer. The restaurant has its own free parking lot.

Neon Splash Dash 5k – Pomona
6:00 pm – 12:00 am, July 27
Fairplex, Pomona
http://www.neonsplashdash.com/locations/pomona-ca-2013/

Run, jog, or walk your way through a brightly lit course at night with the Neon Splash Dash 5k. This all-ages fun run combines the spectrum of a color run, the brilliance of a glow run, and the wetness of running through the rain with specially formulated glow-in-the-dark glow water. Throughout the 5k course, live music will pump up the runners while course staff and volunteers will spray participants with the glow water to give them that special something that lights them up in the night. Following the run, all participants can stay for the after party that goes on all night. Registration costs $60 online and $65 on the day of the event, while teams of four or more can pay $50 or $55 per individual, respectively. As a color run, all participants should wear white during the race to absorb the most color possible, and have spare clothes to change into when going home. Parking will range from $5 to $10, but since spectators can enter for free, feel free to bring friends & family to watch the run. Note that the race will start at 8pm, and with thousands of participants, I highly suggest arriving at least an hour early to circumvent traffic.

“Save Ferris” @ OC Fair
7:00 pm – 12:00 am, July 27
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
http://ns.ocfair.com/ocf2/calendar/ViewEvent.asp?EventId=2725

Originally announced as a reunion show, the facts quickly surfaced that the original band members would NOT reunite, but instead vocalist Monique Powell would perform Save Ferris songs with lesser-known musicians providing instrumentals. Regardless of the controversy, fans of old school ska will not want to miss this rare opportunity to witness Monique Powell perform classic Save Ferris songs. This all-ages concert starts at 7pm on Saturday, July 27th at the Orange County Fair & Event Center’s Pacific Amphitheater with two other bands opening the show prior to Monique’s performance. Ticket prices range from $20 to $33 depending on the seat location, and tickets include admission to the fair, so arrive early to enjoy the fair! Parking costs $10, so I highly advise carpooling.

GOGO13, CodeName: Rocky, Not A Chance @ The Observatory
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, July 27
The Observatory, Santa Ana
http://www.observatoryoc.com/events/gogo13

Get your ska on this Saturday, as ska band GOGO13 hosts a CD release party at The Observatory with CodeName: Rocky, Not A Chance, and more. Tickets to this all-ages show cost just $12.

Swiss Fair
11:00 am – 7:00 pm, July 28
Swiss Park, Whittier
http://www.swisspark.la/

The Annual Swiss Fair returns to Swiss Park in Whittier this Sunday. Guests of all ages will find Swiss food, drinks, desserts, vendors, dance, music, cheese tastings, games, and more. Entry costs $5, which includes parking.

Brew Rendezvous
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm, July 28
Handlery Hotel, San Diego
http://www.sdchip.org/support-chip/brew-rendezvous.aspx

Support local businesses at this fundraiser/beer fest, where guests will receive beer and food from San Diego’s top breweries, restaurants, and farms. VIP admission costs $60 and starts at 12pm, where VIP guests receive exclusive beer and food tastings, as well as a meet & greet with Stone Brewing Company’s Dr. Bill. General admission costs $45 at starts at 1pm, and comes with unlimited beer and food while it lasts. Non-drinkers may attend for $20. The venue typically covers parking; however, have cash available in case they decide to charge for parking that day. No one under 21 may attend.

30th Anniversary Chaya Summer Festival
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, July 28
Chaya Brasserie, West LA/Beverly Hills
http://www.thechaya.com/

This all-ages festival will provide unlimited (while it lasts) food, drinks, live entertainment, and games for all attendees. Tickets cost $55 presale and $65 at the door. Bring some cash for parking.

Suburban Legends, Save The Swim Team, and The Maxies @ The Observatory
8:00 pm – 1:00 am, July 28
The Observatory, Santa Ana
http://www.observatoryoc.com/events/suburban-legends

Ska lives on at The Observatory this Sunday night, with Suburban Legends, Save The Swim Team, The Maxies, and more. Tickets to this all-ages show cost just $12.