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Need February to-dos? We found you just in time!
This month in Los Angeles you’ll find lunar new year celebrations across the L.A. County, the annual museums free-for-all, the Golden Dragon Parade in Chinatown, the South Pasadena Arts Crawl, Attune 1.0, the Frogtown Heart Walk, Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Love Notes, the Winter Corgi Nationals, and more.
M = Less than .5 miles from an L.A. Metro Station, FA = Free Admission, TP = Top Pick
Whale Fiesta (February 1) – FA > The annual Whale Fiesta at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a day of family fun featuring special activities and exhibits, games, arts and crafts, puppet shows, marine awareness organizations, expert guest lecturers, music and a life-size pod of inflatable whales. Runs 10 to 3 p.m. Free and open to the public. More info here.
Game Tasting at Doheny (February 1) – M FA > Join the USC Game Innovation Lab and USC Libraries for an immersive day of tabletop gaming that explores play as a catalyst for social change. Part of the “Let’s Play” series, this tasting features fifteen stations with modern classics like Wingspan and Carcassonne alongside student-designed prototypes. You can participate in guided sessions or explore the open-play zone with games like Monarch that challenge traditional themes of power and gender. Admission is free, though participants must RSVP and sign up for specific gameplay time slots in advance. The event is hosted in the Friends of the USC Libraries Lecture Hall at the Doheny Memorial Library on the USC campus. Starts at noon. More info here.
Transit Equality Day (February 4) – FA > LA Metro is celebrating the birthday of civil rights icon Rosa Parks by offering free rides across its entire bus and rail system. This annual event, known as Transit Equity Day, honors the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott and reinforces the idea that high-quality public transit is a fundamental right for all. Beyond free train and bus fare, you can use code 020406 for free Metro Bike Share rides and code EQUITY26 for the on-demand Metro Micro service. If you’re a collector, look for the special edition Transit Equity Day TAP cards available at customer centers and select stations for $2. More info here.
The Willows ( February 5- March 29) -> From the creators behind Creep JFI Productions, The Willows is an immersive, two-hour theatrical experience that fuses dinner theater with psychological horror. Set inside the historic Beckett Mansion near West Adams, the show welcomes just 25 guests into an intimate (and increasingly unsettling) family gathering. Forget jump scares—this is slow-burn tension at its finest, driven by surreal moments, creeping dread, and performances so convincing you’ll feel pulled straight into the story. Actors stay fully in character and engage directly with guests, making participation part of the thrill. Tickets are $250 per person and routinely sell out. Hosted drinks and hors d’oeuvres are included. More info here.
LA Opera: An Ode to Black Opera (February 5) – M FA TP> Celebrate Black History Month with a powerful evening of music at the California African American Museum. This collaboration with LA Opera Connects honors the legacy and contributions of Black composers through performances by talented artists including bass-baritone Cedric Berry and soprano Thalia Moore. The program offers a unique opportunity to experience high-caliber operatic performance within a space dedicated to Black history and culture. Free to attend. Starts at 7 p.m. More info here.
What A Wonderful World: An Audiovisual Poem (February 6 – March 20)-FA TP> For six weeks, the Julia Stoschek Foundation takes over all six floors of the Variety Arts Theater with What A Wonderful World: An Audiovisual Poem, marking the first U.S. presentation of the renowned collection. The immersive exhibition blurs the boundaries between art and cinema, pairing major video works by artists like Marina Abramović, Doug Aitken, Paul McCarthy, and Wolfgang Tillmans with silent and classic films by pioneers including Alice Guy-Blaché, Georges Méliès, Luis Buñuel, and Walt Disney, turning viewers into active participants in a sensory journey. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to midnight, it’s free to attend—with complimentary popcorn. More info here.
NHM First Fridays (February 6) – M > Celebrate 20 years of First Fridays at the Natural History Museum with a night of music, science, and after-hours exploration. This month kicks off the “Life, From Our Guts to the Galaxy” discussion series, featuring a deep dive into how microscopic life shapes human identity. Catch live performances by headliner Jay Som and Georgia Maq in the North American Mammal Hall, or dance to sets from KCRW DJs Novena Carmel and Wyldeflower among the dioramas. Admission includes access to the Fierce! The Story of Cats exhibition before it closes later this month, plus local food trucks and themed cocktails. Public tickets are $30, though members get in for $20 and enjoy early entry at 5:30 p.m. Runs 6 to 10 p.m. More info here.
The Fifteen Percent Pledge Block Party (February 7) –TP> Celebrate Black History Month at the Paramount Backlot with a massive festival featuring 100+ Black-owned businesses. Shop “stoop sales” from brands like ISM Fashion House, visit retail pop-ups like Brother Vellies, and grab bites from food trucks like Lettuce Feast. The weekend includes live music, book signings, and sets by DJ Hed and Tommy the Clown. Tickets are required and event is 21+. A weekend pass is $40 and a Sunday ticket is $25. More info here.
South Pasadena Arts Crawl (February 7) – M FA > Take a stroll through South Pasadena’s historic Mission Street district for a family-friendly night of art and community. This seasonal “Neighborhood-Night-on-the-Town” features local art exhibitions, live music, and interactive activities like making Valentine’s Day boxes or Chinese scrolls. Explore local shops with open houses, special discounts, and pop-up vendors. Free to attend. Runs 2 to 7 p.m. More info here.
The Bunny Bowl (February 7) -> Get ready for the Big Game’s halftime energy early at the Nativo Casita in Highland Park. This Bad Bunny-themed bash features a look-alike competition, DJ sets by No Effort Radio, and flash tattoos. Shop the Planeta pop-up or hit the photo booth between drinks. The night also supports Inclusive Action, a nonprofit focused on economic justice for street vendors. The party is free to attend, though early arrival is recommended. Runs 5 to 10 p.m. More info here.
Lunar New Year Celebration at Ovation Hollywood (February 7) – FA > Celebrate the Year of the Horse at Ovation Hollywood’s courtyard. This family-friendly festival features martial arts, traditional dance, and live music. Guests can enjoy fan painting and origami at various craft stations. A major highlight is the East-meets-West fashion show by designer Kiki Wang, blending traditional regal elements with modern glamour. The event is free and runs noon to 3 p.m. More info here.
Sounds of LA: Pamyua (February 7-8) – FA > Experience “Inuit Soul” at the Getty Center with Pamyua, a group blending Indigenous Arctic drumsongs with modern funk and R&B. Founded by the Blanchett brothers, the ensemble creates a “blizzard of interlocking harmonies” that honors Yup’ik-Inuit culture through contemporary vocalization. While tickets are free, a reservation is required and serves as your museum entry. More info here.
Lunar New Year Celebration at South Coast Botanic Garden (February 7-8, 14-15, 21-22) -> The South Coast Botanic Garden celebrates Lunar New Year every weekend in February. On Saturdays and Sundays, the Garden will host a flurry of activities and present live performances including lion dancers. Free with garden admission, which starts at $18 for adults. More info here.
Wild Up: The Great Learning at The Broad (February 7) -> The Broad invites Angelenos to a one-of-a-kind sound experience. Grammy-nominated ensemble Wild Up leads a community performance of Cornelius Cardew’s The Great Learning, teaching the work to a public ensemble as voices and percussion unfold through listening and response—blurring the line between performer and participant in a ritual of collective sound. Tickets are $25 and include access to The Broad’s special exhibition Robert Therrien: This is a Story. More info here.
F*CK ICE MAKE ART (February 8) – FA TP> Channel your creativity into activism at The Midnight Hour for a community art session and supply trade. This gathering invites guests to create protest posters, zines with resource hotlines, or art prints to protect local spaces. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own supplies and snacks, or utilize the free art table where you can leave or take materials. This resistance-focused event is free and takes place at 1101 San Fernando Rd. Runs noon to 4 p.m. More info here.
Wine & Chocolate Affair (February 12) – M FA > Savor a guided tasting of Mexican wines and artisanal chocolates at LA Cocina de Gloria Molina. Hosted by Gil and Eloisa of Vinos Los Angeles, this session explores the history of winemaking in Valle de Guadalupe and the impact of terroir on different vintages. You’ll pair these selections with cacao, the “food of the Gods,” while learning about the region’s unique climate. This 21+ Tickets are $45. Starts at 7 p.m. More info here
Night Dive at AoP (February 13) -> The Aquarium of the Pacific’s signature adults-only, after-hours series returns in February with a Valentines Day edition with food trucks, cash bars, DJs throughout the Aquarium galleries, art, and a live band playing in the Great Hall of the Pacific. GA tickets are $49.95 per person. Runs 7:30 to 11 p.m. More info here. More info here.
Match Making Festival (February 14) -> Ditch the dating apps this Valentine’s Day for an massive in-person gathering of over 1,000 singles at Benny Boy Brewing. Hosted in collaboration with The Next Fun Thing, this festival features speed dating, line dancing, carnival games, and access to unique matchmaking technology. You can fuel up with food from Il Piacere, Franzls Franks, or La Quinta Tacos throughout the day while keeping an eye out for “Cupid” sightings. The event is free with an RSVP, though premium matchmaking experiences are available for those looking for extra help from the pros. 21+ only. More info here.
Attune 1.0: A County-Wide Art Journey (February 14) – TP FA > Experience Attune 1.0, a synchronized light and sound activation connecting 10+ locations across LA County. This multi-disciplinary project features light sculptures and immersive compositions from artists like Miguel Atwood-Ferguson and Beatie Wolfe. Programs play simultaneously at sites including Barnsdall Park, Tongva Park, and Leimert Park, allowing thousands to share a “collective sound journey.” Bring a blanket and chairs to relax and tune in. Entry is free, and the first 200 guests at each site get a limited-edition artist Valentine. Runs 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. More info here.
Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Love Notes (February 14) – M FA > Celebrate the “Power of Love” at Gloria Molina Grand Park with a soulful Valentine’s event. This free gathering features a curated soundscape of “oldies” and live radio dedications from DJ Lee Set and Devil One. Enjoy live screen-printing, a floral bouquet station, and a nostalgic classic car display. Neighbors are encouraged to picnic on the lawn before the night concludes with a breathtaking drone light show over DTLA. Free to attend. Runs 3 to 7 p.m. More info here.
The Frogtown Heart Walk (February 14) – FA > Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Frogtown Heart Walk, a community-focused neighborhood celebration along the LA River. Honoring local residents and welcoming newcomers, this event features art exhibits, live music, and family activities like friendship bracelet making and a frog treasure hunt. Visitors can also write love notes on a community wall or relax at local pop-ups. The event is free and spans over a dozen venues in Elysian Valley. Runs noon to 5 p.m. More info here.
Pasadena Black History Festival (February 15) – FA > This year the, the 44th annual Pasadena Black History Festival will once again put the focus on recovery within the community amidst the ongoing tragedy caused by the Eaton Fire. Taking place at Robinson Park the from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the day will feature live bands, dance performances, community booths, guest speakers, and food for purchase. Free to attend. More info here.
So This Sucks: Anti-Valentine’s Show (February 15) – M > Have you had it with romance? Head to Dynasty Typewriter for an evening of hilariously unhinged breakup stories. This annual “About Last Night” storytelling series features a lineup of LA locals sharing their most horrifying and humorous tales of heartbreak. Whether you’re laughing or crying, this 18+ show offers the perfect “medicine” for the cynical and the single alike. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Starts at 7:30 p.m. More info here.
Lunar New Year at UPAM (February 15) – M FA TP > USC Pacific Asia Museum celebrates Lunar New Year with free admission to the museum, plus special activities including a lion dance, storytelling, crafts, and food trucks. You can also check out UPAM’s newest exhibition Mythical Creatures: The Stories We Carry, during its opening weekend. Runs 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
California Botanic Garden Family Bird Festival (February 15) -> Swoop over to the California Botanic Garden for a day of avian discovery! In partnership with the Pomona Valley Bird Alliance, this festival features bird crafts, migration games, and storytimes with author James Hutchinson. Explore the garden to find Great Backyard Bird Count stations or attend talks on the best native plants for birds. Food is available from Yummy Bird and The Chubby Corn. The event is free with garden admission ($15 adults / $5 children). Members enter free. Event runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. More info here.
2026 Winter Corgi Nationals (February 15) -> SoCal’s most competitive Corgis take the field at Santa Anita Park for a day of racing action, complemented by family activities, a Corgi-centric vendor village, plus food and drink for purchase. GA tickets start at $12 per person. More info here.
Steep LA Lunar New Year Market (February 21) – M FA > Join Steep LA for a curated celebration of food, tea, and community at Chinatown’s Mandarin Plaza. This festive marketplace gathers local AAPI vendors and artisans to ring in the Year of the Horse. While you shop, enjoy specialty tea service and seasonal bites from Steep’s kitchen. The event aligns with the historic Golden Dragon Parade nearby, making it the perfect hub for your Chinatown festivities. Runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More info here.
127th Annual Golden Dragon Parade (February 21) – M FA > Experience the vibrant centerpiece of Chinatown’s Lunar New Year celebrations as the 127th Annual Golden Dragon Parade winds through the heart of the neighborhood. This historic procession features spectacular lion and dragon dancers, marching bands, cultural troupes, and elaborate floats traveling north on Hill Street and south along Broadway. Streets begin closing at 10 a.m. and the main event runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. More info here.
Mardi Gras at Benny Boy (February 21) – FA > Experience a slice of New Orleans in Lincoln Heights at Benny Boy Brewing. This festive takeover features a five-piece live jazz band, king cake, and a crawfish boil by Crawdaddy Boiler. Don’t miss the 2 p.m. puppy parade where pets compete for the best float. The event also features Zef BBQ and plenty of beads and feathers in the beer garden. Free admission. 21+. More info here.
Lunar New Year Celebration at Santa Monica Place (February 21) – FA > Santa Monica Place kicks off the Year of the Horse with a free Lunar New Year celebration. Guests can watch lion dances, enjoy live music, Chinese dough art, and calligraphy, while kids get creative in the craft area. Happening from 2 to 5 p.m. More info here.
Broxton Plaza Lunar New Year (February 21) – FA > Ring in the Year of the Horse at Broxton Plaza for a festive afternoon in the heart of Westwood. This free community event features a traditional Lion Dance, zodiac-themed photo ops, and red envelope giveaways. Kids can enjoy hands-on crafts and cultural activities while supplies last. Runs noon to 5 p.m. More info here.
African American Festival at AoP (February 21-22) – > The Aquarium of the Pacific’s annual African American Festival celebrates African American and African culture through a two-day affair featuring dance, music, storytelling to historical displays. All activities included with general admission, which starts at $44.95 for adults. More info here.
Chinese New Year Festival at The Huntington (February 21-22) -> Celebrate the Year Of The Horse in and around The Huntington’s gorgeous Chinese Garden, alongside of an array of traditional entertainment during this two day celebration.. Enjoy lion dancers, mask-changing performances, martial arts demonstrations, live music, arts and craft demos, and dining specials throughout the two-day event. Tickets go on sale February 5. More info here.
SoCal Museums Museums Free-for-All (February 22) – TP FA > Discover the best of Southern California’s arts and culture during this region-wide tradition. Over 30 area institutions open their doors for free general admission. While the event is gratis, many popular spots like LACMA, the Autry, and the La Brea Tar Pits require advance reservations. It’s the perfect day to explore natural history, science, or contemporary art from all the way from Santa Barbara to Orange County! Keep in mind Parking fees still apply at most locations. More info here.
Felix Art Fair (February 25-March 1) – M > The eighth edition of Felix Art Fair takes over The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel with an international roster of 60+ galleries occupying both indoor and outdoor spaces of the iconic hotel. Tickets run $75 per day, or a run of the show pass cost $100. More info here.
Gorillaz House of Kong Exhibition (Feb 26–Mar 19) → Following its acclaimed London debut, Gorillaz bring House of Kong to Downtown L.A. for a limited four-week immersive run at Rolling Greens DTLA. The exhibition invites fans inside the band’s animated universe, tracing the misadventures, music, and virtual innovation of Murdoc, 2D, Russel, and Noodle. Ticket holders also unlock exclusive presale access to two one-off Gorillaz shows at the Hollywood Palladium on Feb 22 and 23, where Damon Albarn and the live band will perform the upcoming album The Mountain in full. Tickets start at $39.50. More info here.
The Other Art Fair (February 26-March 1) -> For spring 2026, the Other Art Fair has a new home for their four-day event at 3Labs in Culver City. Guests can expect a curated selection of over 140 independent artists, offering the chance to scout art for sale while enjoying live DJ sets, activations, installations, and a cash bar. Advance tickets start at $30 for opening night, or $20 for any of the other nights. More info here.
Frieze Los Angeles (February 26-March 1) -> Frieze Los Angeles is back for 2026 at the Santa Monica Airport. The four-day presentation of art features some of the most renowned galleries in the world, and also includes special activations and pop-ups from a few of L.A.’s most popular restaurants. Single day general admission tickets start at $106.50 More info here.
Startup Art Fair Los Angeles (February 27 – March 1) -> Startup Art Fair Los Angeles returns this month transforming the guest rooms of The Kinney Venice Beach into intimate, artist-led exhibition spaces. Now in its eleventh year, the fair spotlights a refreshing model that puts artists at the center of both the conversation and the commerce, inviting collectors, curators, and the public into direct dialogue with today’s leading contemporary voices. Single-day passes are $22, with three-day passes available for $45.More info here.
Alhambra Lunar New Year Festival (February 28) – FA > The Alhambra Lunar New Year Festival includes a day of cultural performances, live art, cooking demonstrations, and local vendors at an artisan alley. Runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Main St. Free to attend. More info here.
L.A. Chinatown Firecracker Run (February 28 – March 1) – M > L.A. Chinatown Firecracker Weekend
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at the 48th Annual Firecracker Lunar New Year event! This community fundraiser features a 50-mile bike ride, a 20-mile fun ride, and the “PAW’er” dog walk on Saturday, followed by 5K/10K runs and a Kiddie Run on Sunday. Participants enjoy a finisher medal, a carbo-load meal, and a beer garden for those 21+. All proceeds support local schools and non-profits. Events start at 943 N. Broadway. Registration fees range from $48 to $87. Both race days start at 8 a.m. More info here.
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