26 Fabulous Events Happening In Southern California This Weekend
It's not even Thanksgiving, but like it or not, the Christmas season is here. We've got half-a-dozen crafty events where you can get your holiday shopping started. Then, dive into the holidays with Zoo Lights or an outdoor screening of "Elf." You can also participate in random acts of fun, like The Great Los Angeles Walk and the Doo Dah Parade.
FRIDAY, NOV. 16 - SUNDAY, NOV. 18
DesignerCon
Anaheim Convention Center -- 800 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim
In its 13th year, the art and design confab triples in size and moves to Anaheim. Look for panels with artists from Kidrobot, Titmouse and Giant Robot as well as the world's largest VR art show, an appearance by low-brow legend Camille Rose Garcia and a Jurassic Park Art Show. Chevy Metal, a band that covers lesser known tracks by ZZ Top, Aerosmith, Van Halen and the like, plays the official after party.
COST: $30 - $70; MORE INFO
FRIDAY, NOV. 16; 9 p.m.
One Dumb Guy & Two Kids In The Hall
UCBT Sunset -- 5419 W. Sunset Blvd., East Hollywood
Author Paul Myers will chat with The Kids In The Hall's Scott Thompson and Dave Foley in honor of Myers' just-released book, One Dumb Guy, about the Canadian sketch troupe.
COST: $12; MORE INFO
FRIDAY, NOV. 16; 3 - 4 p.m.
The Frame Presents Kris Bowers
Crawford Family Forum at KPCC -- 474 South Raymond Ave., Pasadena
The Frame host John Horn welcomes Green Book composer Kris Bowers for a chat -- at the piano -- about scoring for film and TV. Bowers also plays selections from his own works and the new film, which stars Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali.
COST: FREE; MORE INFO
FRIDAY, NOV. 16; 7 - 9 p.m.
David Sedaris: New and Unpublished Work
Royce Hall, UCLA -- 10745 Dickson Ct., Westwood
The writer and humorist returns for his annual visit to L.A. where he reads new and unpublished works. Known for his satire of everyday life, Sedaris has sold more than 10 million copies of his books, including his latest collection of stories and essays, Calypso. A book signing follows the event.
COST: $49-$99; MORE INFO
THROUGH SUNDAY, JAN. 6, 2019
Magical Chinese Lantern Festival
Fairplex -- 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona
Watch handcrafted lanterns, some up to 23 feet tall, illuminate the night sky. Taking the form of cheetahs, lions, jumping koi fish, jellyfish, panda bears, majestic cranes and dinosaurs, the light spectacular is fun for all ages. The festival also features Kung Fu performances, shadow puppetry and various Asian and American cuisines on site.
COST: $15.50 - $21; MORE INFO
FRIDAY, NOV. 16; 7 - 9 p.m.
WWE x G1988 Opening Reception
Gallery1988 -- 7308 Melrose Ave., Fairfax
This pop art group show was two years in the making. The collaborative art show between the gallery and WWE features nearly 100 artists creating pieces inspired by the wrestling superstars, past and present. The other side of the gallery features a new solo show of WWE paintings and prints on black velvet from artist Bruce White. The works from both shows will be on view through Dec.1.
COST: FREE; MORE INFO
FRIDAY, NOV. 16; 7:30 - 10 p.m.
The Whisky Extravaganza
Millennium Biltmore Hotel -- 506 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A.
Cheers! This tasting celebration for whisky fan includes samples from Balcones, Brenne French Single Malt Whisky, Glen Moray, Greenbrier Distillery, Highland Park, The Glenrothes and Widow Jane Whiskey. Dram & Bites tickets are available, and include tastings, light bites and a souvenir glass. This event is 21+. Please use public transportation, rideshare or a DD. There's a business casual dress code, too; no denim allowed.
COST: Tickets start at $135; MORE INFO
FRIDAY, NOV. 16; 7:30 - 9 p.m.
Aberdeen with Tiny Gigantic
Dynasty Typewriter at The Hayworth -- 2511 Wilshire Blvd., Westlake
At this multimedia storytelling show in two acts, Tiny Gigantic, features mixed media story performances from Derick Brown, B. Frayn Masters, Joey Slamon and Anis Mojgani. The second act, Aberdeen, is a solo live music, film and storytelling performance from Matt Sheehy.
COST: $16 - $20; MORE INFO
FRIDAY, NOV. 16 - SUNDAY, JAN. 6, 2019; 6 - 10 p.m.
L.A. Zoo Lights
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens -- 5333 Zoo Dr., Griffith Park
We might not have cold and snow, but L.A.'s holiday light shows are definitely lit. Gaze at thousands of LED lights that transform the park into a holiday wonderland with a disco ball forest, 3D animations, a Twinkle Tunnel and a glowing "Northern Lights" with animal constellations. New this year: the Elephant Circle will be transformed into a kaleidoscopic savanna where glowing, large-scale animals roam.
COST: 412 - $21.95, VIP experiences also available; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17; 7 p.m.
Snap Judgment Live in L.A.
The Theatre at Ace Hotel -- 929 S. Broadway, downtown L.A.
KPCC in Person welcomes Glynn Washington for a live stage show and taping of his popular storytelling show. Hear stories that present the world from different perspectives, backed by music from the Snap Judgment band. The event may include strong language so parental discretion is advised.
COST: $20 - $55; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17; 9 a.m.
The Great Los Angeles Walk
Various locations throughout L.A.
The annual urban walk that traverses the city from east to west pays tribute to the late Jonathan Gold for its 13th edition. Held the Saturday before Thanksgiving, this year's hike takes participants on an exploration of 6th street. It winds through Koreatown since Gold thought the street featured some of the area's best food. When 6th street ends, the hike turns up San Vicente to Burton Way and eventually ends in Santa Monica, near the ocean. All are welcome to participate for as long or as little as they want. Meet up in Pershing Square by 9 a.m.
COST: FREE; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17 - SUNDAY, NOV. 18
Vulture Festival
The Hollywood Roosevelt -- 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood
The pop-culture festival from New York magazine's Vulture returns with panels, screenings and performances, focusing on what's hot and happening right now. Events include chats with Busy Philipps, Rachel Bloom and Cameron Esposito, The Good Place writers panel, a Schitt's Creek holiday spectacular and a special screening of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Events are ticketed separately; all-access pass is available.
COST: FREE - $425; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17 - SUNDAY, NOV. 18; noon - 5 p.m.
Humphry Slocombe's Pie Pop-up
Humphry Slocombe -- 1653B Abbott Kinney Blvd., Venice
The ice cream shop hosts Homeboy Industries so Westsiders can take home holiday pies like pumpkin, apple and pecan. Customers can also try the "Homeboy a la Mode," a slice of Homeboy's pumpkin pie topped with a scoop of shop's Brown Butter ice cream and bourbon caramel drizzle. All proceeds from the dessert go to the nonprofit that helps gang-involved and previously incarcerated men and women wirth free services and job training.
COST: Varies; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Festival of Flight
Long Beach Airport, Taxiway B -- 3590 E. Wardlow Rd., Long Beach
More than 10,000 people are expected at the festival, which features a static display of aircraft including a C-17 from March Air Force Base, a Gulfstream G650 jet, a Lockheed Model 10 Electra (the same type of airplane flown by Amelia Earhart) and WWII-era warbirds. Listen to music by Long Beach City College's Jazz Combo, the 1940s-era vocal and dance troupe the Satin Dollz and 80s tribute band Knyght Ryder. Food trucks, beer stations and helicopter rides will be available for purchase. The festival marks the start of a year-long celebration of the airport's 95th anniversary.
COST: FREE; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17 - SUNDAY, NOV. 18; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair
Central Park -- 275 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena
Skip the gift cards and get creative. The indie artisan fair brings more than 150 vendors for a weekend of art and handmade shopping, plus DIY activities for all ages.
COST: Free admission; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17; 5:30 p.m.
Creature Feature Festival
The Hi-Hat -- 5043 York Blvd., Highland Park
The shoegaze band Young Creatures holds a celebration with music, comedy, art, zines, vendors, a pool tournament, raffles and surprises. In addition to the host band taking the stage, performers include Sugar Candy Mountain, The Blank Tapes, Ryan Pollie, Bloodboy, Carly & The Universe and comedy by Eli Nicolas.
COST: $10 - $20; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17; 8 p.m.
Elf
Greek Theatre -- 2700 N. Vermont Ave., Griffith Park
Son of a nutcracker! Can you believe it's almost December? Bring the whole family to watch Will Ferrell as Buddy the giant elf. Doors open at 4 p.m. for winter fun including visits with Santa, a tree lighting, snow sledding and kid-friendly activities.
COST: $5+ fees; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17; 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Non Stop Bhangra: Diwali
Resident -- Resident, 428 S. Hewitt St., downtown L.A.
The band continues to celebrate the festival of lights by getting everyone on the dance floor with positive vibes and beats. The night features a dance lesson at 10:30 p.m., performances, live drummers, DJs, lights, henna and a food truck. NSB encourages attendees to wear something bright and vibrant or put on the Bollywood glam. This event is 21+.
COST: $15 - $20; MORE INFO
SATURDAY, NOV. 17; 8 a.m.
In-N-Out Burger and HOT ROD Anniversary Party
Auto Club Raceway Pomona -- 2780 Fairplex Dr., Pomona
The Southern California fast food institution and the auto magazine team up for a joint party. The event includes a car show, drag racing, live music and In-N-Out trucks serving burgers.
COST: $15 spectator, $40 car show participant; MORE INFO
SUNDAY, NOV. 18; 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Cultural Traffic
That That Gallery -- 4405 W Jefferson Blvd., West Adams
The roving arts fair returns to L.A. and teams with the burgeoning art space to bring together DIY artists, indie and experimental publishers, vintage book dealers and vendors of ephemera and pop culture. The day also features readings, screenings, music and performance.
COST: FREE admission; MORE INFO
SUNDAY, NOV. 18; 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Patchwork Show
Long Beach Marine Stadium -- 5255 East Paoli Way, Long Beach
The festival features more than 200 vendors and food trucks including 12 Oaks Desserts, BeeKissed Caramels, Burnin' Beak, Dolce Monachellis Gourmet Specialties, Nam Prik Chili Hot Sauce, Chunk-N-Chip, Hungry Belly, Piaggio on Wheels and The Berlin Truck. The event is family and dog-friendly with crafting, community and music on multiple stages.
COST: FREE admission; MORE INFO
SUNDAY, NOV. 18; - SUNDAY, JAN. 6
Enchanted: Forest of Light
Descanso Gardens --1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge
This interactive, nighttime experience features a one-mile walk through a gorgeously illuminated landscape that lets you see part of the garden... in a new light. This is a rain or shine event.
COST: $28-30, general admission; MORE INFO
SUNDAY, NOV. 18; 8 - 11 p.m.
Chef Flynn
The Lobby of the Line Hotel (DTLA) -- 3515 Wilshire Blvd., Koreatown
Celebrate the L.A. release of the documentary Chef Flynn at a premiere party. Directed by Cameron Yates, the film explores the journey of 19-year-old chef Flynn McGarry, who started his first supper club at age 12 and has gone on to cook at top restaurants around the world. The party features happy hour prices all night, food specials, a DJ set by Them Jeans and an appearance by McGarry.
COST: FREE; MORE INFO
SUNDAY, NOV. 18; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Doo Dah Parade
East Pasadena -- Colorado Blvd., between Altadena Dr. and San Gabriel Blvd.
Let your freak flag fly at this antithesis to the Rose Parade and its stately marching bands and floats. The Doo Dah encourages irreverent frolicking from both participants and onlookers. The official after-party ($5 cover) takes place at the American Legion (179 N. Vinedo St.) with bands, dancing, food and drinks.
COST: FREE to watch, $10 per person to participate in parade; MORE INFO
SUNDAY, NOV. 18; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Barnsdall Art and Craft Fair
Junior Arts Center Gallery at Barnsdall Art Park -- 4800 Hollywood Blvd., East Hollywood
Get a jump start on holiday gifts made by local artists while treating yourself to tasty eats from local restaurants. The fair showcases work from Barnsdall Art Center's students and faculty including jewelry, ceramics, cards, prints, paintings, drawings and photography. Proceeds from the event will support arts programming and education for students at the center.
COST: FREE entry; MORE INFO
SUNDAY, NOV. 18; 7 p.m.
UnCabaret: 25th Anniversary Show & Celebration
The Theatre at Ace Hotel -- 929 S. Broadway, downtown L.A.
The long-running alternative variety show celebrates 25 years with live comedy, music and never-before-seen footage from the archives. Guests include Julia Sweeney, Janeane Garofalo, Bob Odenkirk, Greg Behrendt, Patton Oswalt, Rebecca Corry, Jill Soloway, Alex Edelman, Allee Willis and tons of others.
COST: $29 - $59; MORE INFO
How are you spending your weekend? Let us know on Twitter @christineziemba and @LeoHasACat.
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