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Got your plan sorted for President’s Day weekend? We’re here to help.

This February 17-20 in Los Angeles, check out the Felix Art Fair, the L.A. Art Show, Frieze Los Angeles, Mardis Gras at the Original Farmers Market, Lunar New Year at UPAM, the L.A. Travel & Adventure Show, Broken Hearts Circus at Angel City Brewery, a Family Bird Festival, the L.A. Chinatown Firecracker race, and more. Enjoy your (hopefully) extra day off this weekend!

Things To Do This Weekend

Felix Art Fair -> Now through Sunday, the fifth 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 $40-$50 per day and a run of the show pass cost $80. More info here.

L.A. Art Show -> The L.A. Art Show is back through Sunday, offering 180,000 feet of exhibition space at the L.A. Convention Center. 120 galleries, museums, and non-profit arts organizations will exhibit painting, sculpture, works on paper, installations, and photography from around the world. One-day admission is $30, and it’ll run you $250 to attend the opening night premiere. Get more info here.

Frieze Los Angeles -> This Thursday to Sunday, Frieze Los Angeles is back for 2023 with a new location at the Santa Monica Airport. The three-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. Tickets start at $80.95 per adult. More info here.

Night Dive at AoP -> The Aquarium of the Pacific’s signature adults-only, after-hours series returns this Friday with food trucks, cash bars, DJs throughout the Aquarium galleries, art, and a live band performing on the stage in front of the Honda Blue Cavern. GA tickets are $29.95. Runs 7:30 to 11 p.m. More info here.

Dear Future -> For L.A. Art Week, The Future Perfect presents Dear Future, the first solo gallery exhibition in Los Angeles by pioneering Italian artist and architect, Gaetano Pesce. Held at the Goldwyn House in the Hollywood Hills, the gallery will feature over five decades of Pesce’s designs including new, rarely exhibited and re-edition pieces. Dear Future will be open to the public on Friday, February 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Puppy Yoga -> Join the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace for an adorable Friday evening yoga class with dogs. Think goat yoga but with PetSpace’s adoptable dogs. Guided by instructor Khylie Heins and Toni Longoria the one hour Vinyasa flow cost $30 a person and will go towards the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace Extraordinary Care Fund. More info here.

Lizzie No at BroadStage -> This Friday, Singer-songwriter, harpist, and guitarist Lizzie No is one of the most talented emerging artists in contemporary folk music, and you can catch her on February 17 at BroadStage as part of the theater’s blackbox series. GA tickets start at $40. Get more info here.

Open Stage at The Elysian -> This Friday, The Elysian Theater in Frogtown offers an open invite for performers looking to workshop their ensemble (meaning two or more people) material to a live audience. And even if you’re not a performer, you can attend for free to see what weird/inventive/hilarious stuff locals have been working on. Plus, there will be free pizza for all who perform/attend. Performances runs 7 to 9 p.m. Pizza from 6:30 to 7. Doors open at 6. Get more info and RSVP here.

The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art at Ace Hotel -> This Friday the world’s only LGBTQIA+ dedicated museum, Leslie Lohman Museum of Art will host a conversation with 2 Spirits multidisciplinary artists, Coyote Park and Zachary Drucker  discussing the exhibition I Love You Like Mirrors Do. Held at Upstairs at the Ace Hotel, the talk will be followed by a cocktail reception with DJ tunes by Madison Moore. Free to attend. More info here. 

Luminario Ballet -> This Friday and Saturday, Luminario Ballet makes its Wallis debut with a two-part program featuring Heroes, Sheroes, and Eros followed by The Last Supper. Friday evening’s performance also includes a talk-back with the artists followed the show. Tickets start as low as $10. Get more info here.

Bob Marly One Love -> Head to Ovation Hollywood for an 15,000-square-foot exhibit celebrating the life and career of the iconic musician/songwriter Bob Marley, including the entire Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Bob Marley Archive. You can walk through an immersive “One Love Forest,” experience a silent disco, and pose for plenty of photo ops. Runs daily through April 23. Tickets start at $20 plus fees. More info here.

Lunar New Year at UPAM -> USC Pacific Asia Museum’s rescheduled Lunar New Year celebration takes place this Saturday with a slate of cultural performances, including lion dance, martial art demos, storytelling, classical music, and more. Admission is free with advance registration. Runs 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More info here.

Pasadena Black History Parade and Festival -> The Pasadena Black History Parade and Festival kicks off this Saturday at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Fair Oaks Avenue and Figueroa Drive. The route ends at Robinson Park where a post-parade festival includes live bands, dance performances, community booths, guest speakers, and food for purchase. Free to attend. Parade runs 10 a.m. to noon. Festival goes from noon to 4 p.m. Get more info here.

Refik Anadol: Living Paintings -> The Jeffrey Deitch gallery welcomes Living Paintings, Refik Anadol’s first major solo exhibition in Los Angeles. Recognized for his AI data paintings and sculptures, the exhibition will showcase a series of Anadol’s works based on California-related datasets including weather data in L.A. and images of national parks. The show will also include the artist’s traveling Infinity Room. The exhibit runs Feb. 14 through April 29 and the artist reception will be held this Saturday, February 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. More info here. 

Vegan Mardis Gras at Common Space -> Common Space Brewery celebrates Mardis Gras this Saturday with a day of vegan bites, craft beer, live jazz from Shogo Elefson Group, and sustainable throws (instead of the usual plastic beads). 30+ vendors expected to be on hand. Runs noon to 5 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Barry’s and Pause Takeover for Heart Health -> On Saturday head to The Point in El Segundo for a Barry’s HIIT class and recovery session at Pause Studio. Tickets cost $20 per person and all proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the American Heart Association in honor of American Heart Month. More info here. 

Photo Forward Los Angeles -> This Saturday and Sunday, the Photographic Arts Council Los Angeles host Photo Forward Los Angeles, a photo fair that features both vintage and contemporary works. Free to attend the fair takes place at Danziger Gallery located at Bergamot Station Arts Center. More info here.

The Vertical Stage -> This Saturday and Sunday the Fairmont Century Plaza transforms its façade into a 19-story vertical dance floor for a spectacular aerial performance by BANDALOOP.  There are four 25-minute ticketed performances this weekend and prices start at $55. Guests will have a few options for tickets from a viewing and cocktails to VIP seating and dinner credits. More info here. 

Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show -> Hundreds of the top travel brands from around the world head to the Los Angeles Convention Center this Saturday and Sunday for a two-day event packed with vacation tips, travel celebrities, show-only deals, destination ideas., and more. One-day tickets start at $11. Get more info here.

45th annual L.A. Chinatown Firecracker Run/Walk/Ride -> The L.A. Chinatown Firecracker race is back this weekend with a two-day event that includes a bike race and dog walk on Saturday, then 5k and 10k runs/walks on Sunday. The post-race expo includes vendors and booths as well as a new Chalk Art Festival and Boba Garden, plus a children’s carnival for the Kiddie Run participants. Registration costs $30-$65. Get more info and register to race here.

Mardis Gras at the Original Farmers Market -> The Original Farmers brings a piece of New Orleans to Los Angeles this Saturday and Sunday with colorful day of activities including live music, kids crafts, a puppy parade, a beignet pop-up tent, and more. Activities start at noon on both days. Free to attend. More info here.

Broken Hearts Circus -> If you’re feeling the post-Valentine’s Day blues, head to Angel City Brewery this Sunday for an afternoon of aerialists, stilt-walkers, contortionists, jugglers, sword swallowers, and tarot card readers. There will be plenty of beers on tap, and guests can also enjoy specialty slushies along with flight and candy pairings (including vegan candy options). Doors open at noon, entertainment starts at 1 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Las Abuelitas Kitchen -> This Sunday, Skirball Cultural Center’s Las Abuelitas Kitchen brings an evening of film, food, and conversation featuring USC Food Scholar Sarah Portnoy. Guests will watch a short documentary about ten Mexican elders, enjoy live food demos with three abuelitas from the film and view a small exhibition of Mexican culinary artifacts. Runs 4-6 p.m. Tickets cost $30 a person. More info here.

Family Bird Festival -> This Sunday’s Family Bird Festival at the California Botanic Garden in Claremont celebrates birds with a day of interactive educational activities, crafts, and info booths that will teach visitors of all ages about birding, bird habitats, birds frequently seen in Southern California, bird anatomy and adaptation, and much more. The Festival will also feature booths from guests including Wild Wings bird rehabilitation, International Bird Rescue, and California Condors Wild, and more. The event is included with garden admission, which starts at $10 for adults. More info here.

Dining & Drinking

(picks by Christina Champlin)

Telefèric Barcelona -> On Saturday, February 18, Barcelona-based restaurant Telefèric Barcelona brings the cuisine and atmosphere of Spain’s Costa Brava region to Brentwood. Open for lunch and dinner with a specialty El Merkat slated to open soon, guests can expect elaborate pintxos, authentic tapas and signature paellas from executive chef Oscar Cabezas. Highlights include Lobster Paella, shareable plates such as Pulpo Telefèric (Galician grilled octopus with pimentón potato purée) and Gambas al Ajillo (shrimp in garlic.) The menu will also feature a few dishes unique to Los Angeles and creative Sangria’s infused with prickly pear juice and cava, or Tempranillo.

Little Dom’s Annual Mardi Gras Feast -> Starting Saturday, February 18 and leading up to Fat Tuesday on February 21, Little Dom’s in Los Feliz will offer a Cajun and creole-inspired menu. Available for dine-in during dinner service Chef Brandon Boudet and team will offer an à la carte menu that includes a smoked roast beef po boy, Crawfish Monica pasta, jambalaya balls, Beignets with Raspberry Sauce and more. 

Pliny the Younger at Mohawk Bend -> Beer lovers take note, on Saturday, February 18 Mohawk Bend taps the highly-sought after Pliny the Younger beer with tickets (Yup, it’s that serious!) available for $12. Ticket holders redeem a 12 oz pour of Pliny the Younger anytime between noon  and 3 p.m. on February 18, and all remaining Pliny the Younger will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis after 3 p.m. More info here.

Looking Ahead…

Gucci Osteria Beverly Hills x Chef Kwame Onwuachi -> In honor of Black History Month, Gucci Osteria Beverly Hills has tapped acclaimed chef Kwame Onwuachi to host a special collaborative dinner on Wednesday, February 22. For one night only, guests will experience a mash-up of Chef Kwame’s New York-inspired Afro-Caribbean cuisine and Gucci Osteria Chef Mattia Agazzi’s California-inspired Italian. The ticketed six course meal cost $425 per person. Reservations can be booked through Resy. 

Mardi Gras Party at Risky Business -> For Mardi Gras (Tuesday, February 21), North Hollywood’s secret-(ish) bar Risky Business goes all out with crawfish by the pound, Sazeracs, Hurricanes, Abita Mardi Gras Bock on tap, beignets, chicory coffee, king cake, and other New Orleans staples. There is no cover. More info here. 

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Chilly! That’s how we’re starting this week in Los Angeles, with a cold weather alert issued by Public Health for multiple areas of the county during overnight portions of Tuesday and Thursday. So how do we heat things up? By making your next five days fun as hell.

For February 13-17 in L.A., check out Lovers Rock at Grand Park, a Break-Up Bar at Harvard & Stone, the Felix Art Fair, the L.A. Art Show, Frieze Los Angeles, Night Dive at The Aquarium, Puppy Yoga, and more. Stay warm, and enjoy your week!

Things To Do This Week

The Last Improv -> Monday at Dynasty Typewriter, The Last Improv gathers an A-list lineup of comedians to perform skits based on the stories of a guest monologist who offers impromptu diatribes inspired by audience suggestion. Dan Black hosts with special guests to include Nicole Byer, Neil Casey , Brandon Scott Jones, Paul Scheer, Paul Welsh, and Kumail Nanjiani. GA tickets are $25 in advance. Starts at 7:30 p.m. More info here.

Grand Park’s Lovers Rock -> This Tuesday, do Valentine’s Day DTLA style with a romantic evening of entertainment at Grand Park. Expect live music, a photo booth, a pop-up art gallery by LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, a flower market with Poppy Lavender Florals, and more. Runs 6 to 10 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Free Admission at LACMA and The Autry -> It just so happens that Valentine’s Day falls on the second Tuesday of February this year, which means it lines up with the monthly free days at both the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and The Autry. If a day-date filled with art and culture sounds like your jam, consider stopping in to either institution.

Break Up Bar at Harvard & Stone -> This Tuesday, Harvard & Stone’s anti-Valentine’s Day Break Up Bar offers a one-night-only event featuring themed cocktails, art installations, live entertainment and the appropriately titled “wall of broken relationships.” GA tickets are $38. Starts at 8 p.m. More info here.

Street Food Cinema’s My Bloody Valentine -> Street Food Cinema wraps up their Bloody Valentine’s Day series with a showing of Jennifer’s Body at Million Dollar Theater this Tuesday at 6 p.m. The event also includes a special pre-movie performance by Cabaret Versatile. GA tickets start at $33. More info here.

More Valentine’s To-Dos –> Need more V-Day ideas? Check out our list of 21 Fun Things To Do in L.A. for Valentine’s Day.

Felix Art Fair -> Wednesday to Sunday, the fifth 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 $40-$50 per day and a run of the show pass cost $80. More info here.

L.A. Art Show -> Wednesday to Sunday, The L.A. Art Show returns to DTLA offering 180,000 feet of exhibition space at the L.A. Convention Center. 120 galleries, museums, and non-profit arts organizations will exhibit painting, sculpture, works on paper, installations, and photography from around the world. One-day admission is $30, and it’ll run you $250 to attend the opening night premiere. Get more info here.

Frieze Los Angeles -> This Thursday to Sunday, Frieze Los Angeles is back for 2023 with a new location at the Santa Monica Airport. The three-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. Tickets start at $80.95 per adult. More info here.

Night Dive at AoP -> The Aquarium of the Pacific’s signature adults-only, after-hours series returns this Friday with food trucks, cash bars, DJs throughout the Aquarium galleries, art, and a live band performing on the stage in front of the Honda Blue Cavern. GA tickets are $29.95. Runs 7:30 to 11 p.m. More info here.

Dear Future -> For L.A. Art Week, The Future Perfect presents Dear Future, the first solo gallery exhibition in Los Angeles by pioneering Italian artist and architect, Gaetano Pesce. Held at the Goldwyn House in the Hollywood Hills the gallery will feature over five decades of Pesce’s designs including new, rarely exhibited and re-edition pieces. Dear Future will be open to the public on Friday, February 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Puppy Yoga -> Join the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace for an adorable Friday evening yoga class with dogs. Think goat yoga but with PetSpace’s adoptable dogs. Guided by instructor Khylie Heins and Toni Longoria the one hour Vinyasa flow cost $30 a person and will go towards the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace Extraordinary Care Fund. More info here.

Lizzie No at BroadStage -> This Friday, Singer-songwriter, harpist, and guitarist Lizzie No is one of the most talented emerging artists in contemporary folk music, and you can catch her on February 17 at BroadStage as part of the theater’s blackbox series. GA tickets start at $40. Get more info here.

Open Stage at The Elysian -> This Friday, The Elysian Theater in Frogtown offers an open invite for performers looking to workshop their ensemble (meaning two or more people) material to a live audience. And even if you’re not a performer, you can attend for free to see what weird/inventive/hilarious stuff locals have been working on. Plus, there will be free pizza for all who perform/attend. Performances runs 7 to 9 p.m. Pizza from 6:30 to 7. Doors open at 6. Get more info and RSVP here.

The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art at Ace Hotel -> This Friday the world’s only LGBTQIA+ dedicated museum, Leslie Lohman Museum of Art will host a conversation with 2 Spirits multidisciplinary artists, Coyote Park and Zachary Drucker  discussing the exhibition I Love You Like Mirrors Do. Held at Upstairs at the Ace Hotel, the talk will be followed by a cocktail reception with DJ tunes by Madison Moore. Free to attend. More info here. 

Luminario Ballet -> This Friday and Saturday, Luminario Ballet makes its Wallis debut with a two-part program featuring Heroes, Sheroes, and Eros followed by The Last Supper. Friday evening’s performance also includes a talk-back with the artists followed the show. Tickets start as low as $10. Get more info here.

Dining & Drinking

(picks by Christina Champlin)

West African Valentine’s Day Tasting Menu -> West African dinner series Ilé LA is currently taking reservations for a special nine-course aphrodisiac Valentine’s Day tasting menu. Located in Hollywood, the critically acclaimed concept invites guests to gather together and savor Chef Tolu Eros’ deeply personal and experimental West African cuisine. Reservations for February 14 can be made through Tock. The dinner cost $250 per person and guests can BYOB. 

Drink an Old Fashioned to Support HBCU’s -> From now through March, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey is partnering with bars and restaurants across the country to raise up to $1 million for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. For every Old Fashioned cocktail sold at select L.A. participants $1 will be donated to the program. Cheers to that! More info here.

Heart-Shaped Pizza -> On Valentine’s Day Superfine Pizza in Downtown Los Angeles will feature heart-shaped margherita pizzas for $21. Orders can be made online the day of through the Superfine website. 

Looking Ahead…

Chinese `Medicine Mulled Wine Class ->  On February 23, Chef Zoey Gong leads Impastiamo’s saffron mulled wine cooking class. Free to attend and donation based, the online zoom class guides participants through a mulled wine recipe using Traditional Chinese Medicine to help warm the body, lift moods and promote good blood circulation. More info here.

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Poetry, art, comedy, film, books, and masked wrestling. Something for everyone this week in the city of angels!

From February 6-10 in Los Angeles, you’ll find Chuck D in conversation, Netflix Is A Joke at Dynasty Typrewriter, Lucha VaVOOM’s Pasión de Fuego, a KCRW Open House Dance Party at CAAM, the California Antiquarian Book Fair, Flux screenings at The Hammer, and much more. Take a gander at our full list below, and we hope you make the most of your social hours!

Things To Do This Week in Los Angeles

The Auntie Sewing Squad Guide to Mask Making, Radical Care, and Racial Justice -> During the early days of the 2020 COVID-19 shutdown, artist, comedian, activist, and Koreatown Neighborhood Council member Kristina Wong began a mask-making mission to supply critically needed PPE equipment to people all over the country. Her efforts led to the formation of the Auntie Sewing Squad and now, ahead of the Los Angeles premier of her new solo play Kristina Wong, Sweatshop Overlord, Wong and her Sewing Squad collaborators share their stories at this Monday’s Aloud discussion event, presented by the Library Foundation of Los Angeles. Starts at 7 p.m. at the Mark Taper Auditorium at Central Library. Free to attend. More info here.

Bridging The Pacific -> Now on view at the Torrance Art Museum, Bridging The Pacific brings together over a dozen artists from SoCal’s Japanese American community for a group art show demonstrating the range of talents, traditions, and artistic practices of the Japanese diaspora. TAM is free to visit Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More info here.

A Conversation with Chuck D -> GRAMMY-nominated Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Chuck D comes to the GRAMMY Museum this Tuesday to converse about his life, career and new fine art book, Livin’ Loud, which features over 250 of the artists paintings, sketches and drawings. Tickets to the event are $50. Starts at 7 p.m. More info here.

Netflix Is A Joke Radio Presents: Are You Still Listening? -> Netflix’s free monthly stand-up series returns to Dynasty Typewriter this Wednesday with host Chaunté Wayans and a lineup that features Akeem Woods, Andrea Jin, Brittany Schmitt, Caleb Hearon, Chelcye Perry, and Saul Trujillo. No cost to RSVP for admission, but seating is first-come, first-served and not guarantee entry. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and show starts an hour later. More info here.

Lucha VaVOOM’s Pasión de Fuego -> Pasión de Fuego is Lucha VaVOOM’s two-night engagement at The Mayan Theater includes shows this Wednesday and Thursday. Expect LVV’s signature extravaganza of masked wrestling, impressive aerialists, and sexy burlesque. General admission tickets start at $45. More info here.

Eataly’s Carnevale d’Amore Festa -> On Thursday, Indulge in an evening of all inclusive bites, sips and Carnevale themed festivities. In celebration of Mardi Gras and amore, guests will have full access to savory and sweet stations as well as over 20 wines from sparkling, red to white. Tickets cost $70 a person. More info here.

Pan African Film & Art Festival -> From February 9-20, The Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) returns to Los Angeles for 12-days of showcasing over 200 new films and the talented artists who created them. Passes to the festival start at $65. More info here.

Flux at The Hammer -> The Hammer Museum’s Flux screening series kicks off its 2023 slate this Thursday with an eclectic evening of international shorts, performance films, and music videos, plus appearances by the filmmakers themselves. Stick around after the screenings for an after-party in the courtyard with beats by dublab’s DJ Frosty. Free to attend. Starts at 7:30 p.m. More info here.

What is The Value of Art? -> In advance of next week’s Frieze Los Angeles art fair, Zócalo Public Square hosts an a discussion this Thursday where experts will interrogate the value we place on art, whether it’s the price tag, the cultural impact, or the personal meaning behind a work . Included on the panel are activist Andrea Bowers; artist, cultural organizer, and co-founder of Meztli Projects Joel Garcia; and director and CEO of Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Sandra Jackson-Dumont. Event is free to attend. Starts at 7 p.m., with a post-talk reception to follow. More info here.

KCRW Open House Dance Party at CAAM -> This Friday, KCRW teams up with the California African American Museum for an evening of dance beats curated by KCRW DJs Francesca Harding and Tyler Boudreaux. Expect an outdoor beer garden, food trucks, and plenty of time to explore CAAM’s lobby exhibitions. Runs 7 to 10 p.m. Free admission. Get more info here.

The Poetry Brothel: Lust and Longing in Los Angeles -> If the term “word orgy” gets your blood pumping, head to El Cid this on Friday for an all out poetry blitz presented by Madam Tallula. Check out one-on-one private poetry readings, Tarot readings, poetic souvenirs, live typewriter poetry, and a smattering of dance and musical performances. Tickets are $50. Starts at 6:30 p.m. More info here.

Bloody Valentines Screening at Million Dollar Theatre -> Starting this Friday, Street Food Cinema celebrates Valentine’s Day with three bloody good movie screenings over three nights at the historic Million Dollar Theatre in DTLA. Slated films include Queen of the Damned, Bram Stoker’s Dracula and Jennifer’s Body. Advanced tickets cost $28 for general admission and $31 for reserved sections. More info here.

CASETiFY x ROW DTLA’s Love Struck Gallery -> This Friday, grab a partner and head to ROW DTLA for Creatives to Fall For: A Lovestruck Gallery. CASETiFY’s free event invites the public to experience a blooming art gallery brought to life by local floral designers using CASETiFY’s clear case collection as their muse. In addition, the pop-up will offer guests complimentary latte art, access to Valentine’s cases for friends and couples as well as a first-look at the brands new collection with the New York Times best-selling poet, Atticus. More info here.

Conga Patria Son Jarocho Collective at LA Plaza -> LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes kicks off their 2023 season of free events on Friday with a concert by the Grammy-nominated Conga Patria Son Jarocho Collective. Starts at 7 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Culver City Arts District Valentine’s Night Market -> The monthly night market at Culver City’s Ivy Station gets a Valentine’s Day twist this Friday, offering date-nighters an array of local vendors, food trucks, drinks, games, and music. Free to attend. Runs 5 to 10 p.m. More info here.

California Antiquarian Book Fair -> Attention book lovers! The 55^th California International Antiquarian Book Fair pops up at the Pasadena Convention Center this Friday to Sunday, bringing together thousands of book lovers, rare book dealers, and scholars. Tickets are $10-$15 for one-day admission, and there is also free admission for librarians, curators, and related non-profit cultural institution workers who register in advance at this link. For all other guests, get tickets and see more info here.

Dining & Drikning

(picks by Christina Champlin)

Valentine’s Day Lattes at Verve Coffee -> On Tuesday, February 7 all locations of Verve will add a limited-time Raspberry Mocha Latte to the menu. Crafted with chocolate, fresh raspberries and Verve’s signature Streetlevel espresso, the drink is topped with crushed dried raspberries for an extra dose of color. The drink will be available through February 19. 

Valentine’s Day Donut Flavors at Holey Grail Donuts -> The originators of the taro donut will launch four Valentine’s Day donuts on Thursday, February 9. Available at all Holey Grail locations through February 15, donut flavors include: Love Potion, made with local lavender, lemon, black pepper; Miso Honey with miso, honey and Hawaiin black lava sea salt; Strawberry Fields with local strawberry and matcha swirl; and a Theobroma rolled in cacao nib and vanilla bean sugar. 

Sunset Wine Tastings with Vinovore -> This Thursday, join Vinovore at Silver Lake Pool & Inn for Sunset Wine Tastings. Tickets cost $15 a person and include a wine tasting from winemakers, Tara and Mireia of Camins2Dreams. Runs 5 to 9 p.m. More info here. 

McConnell’s Valentine’s Day Ice Cream Cupcakes -> From February 10-14, McConnell’s Ice Cream will feature a Valentine’s Day ice cream cupcake made with a house-made chocolate ganache cupcake base filled with your choice of ice cream topped with pink whipped cream and sprinkles.

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Raise your hand if you’re ready for the weekend!

This February 3-5 in Los Angeles, check out First Fridays at NHM, a Celebration of Life for P-22, Chinese New Year at The Huntington, the SoCal Museums Free-For-All, a Puppy Bowl Rally, Listening By The Moonrise, and more.

Things To Do This Weekend

Try/Step/Trip at The Wallis -> In Try/Step/Trip, Writer/Composer Dahlak Brathwaite takes inspiration from his own personal experience as a Black man exposed to the American criminal justice system to create a powerful and poetic spoken-word, musical told through the language of step dance. Part hip-hop and part dramatic performance, the show runs this Thursday through Sunday at The Wallis. Tickets start at $40. More info here.

Designing with Disaster -> Designing with Disaster: Stories from Seven Regenerative Cities is the latest exhibition at Japan House LA. Inspired by the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, the exhibit introduces the concept of “Regenerative Urbanism” through interactive illuminated wells that envisioning seven hypothetical regenerative cities. Designing with Disaster runs through April 2. Free to visit. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. More info here.

11th Annual San Pedro Film Festival -> This Thursday to Sunday, screen a number of diverse films that celebrate the culture and community of San Pedro. Artist MOBY will also make his directorial debut during this time with Punk Rock Vegan. Free to attend. All tickets can be reserved online. More info here.

First Fridays at NHM -> Natural History Museum’s signature monthly series returns for 2023 on February 3 with Dragons, Lore, and More, a discussion between Dr. Yewande Pearse and Rebecca C. Thompson, author of Fire, Ice, and Physics; The Science of Game of Thrones. The pair dissect the fantasy world’s made-up science and see how it matches up to the real-world. The evening also includes live music by Black Belt Eagle Scout and Ari Rivera, DJ sets in the nature garden, and pop-up experiences throughout the museum. Runs 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $20. Cosplay definitely encouraged! More info here.

“We The People” Billboard Exhibition -> Starting Friday, February 3, The Billboard Creative opens a new exhibition curated by Mona Kuhn that turns billboard advertising spaces into an open-air art for all to enjoy. The project features the work of 30 emerging and established artists working in a broad range of media – photography, painting, drawing, mixed media, and collage. We The People runs February 3­–28. More info here.

Abruzzo Wine Tasting with Ciavolich Winery -> Stop by Eataly this Friday for an Abruzzo Wine Tasting with Ciavolich Winery. Tickets cost $65 a person and include the wine tasting, food pairings and a discount to the wines featured. More info here.

Grand National Roadster Show -> The O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show is the longest-running indoor car show in the world, and this Friday to Sunday the event returns to the Fairplex in Pomona for its 73rd season of showcasing the country’s top custom cars. Expect over 1,000 of the best hot rods, customs, low riders, muscle cars, trucks and motorcycles from across the nation on display. Tickets start at $30 for a one-day pass. More info here.

First Fridays in Bixby Knolls -> First Fridays along Atlantic Ave in Long Beach have returned, featuring an evening of pop-up activities, and a celebration of Black History Month with the “Strength Behind us, Greatness Ahead of Us” exhibit at Expo Arts Center plus live live music, art and special promotions at breweries and restaurants. More info here.

Chinese New Year Festival at The Huntington -> Celebrate the Year Of The Rabbit this Saturday and Sunday at The Huntington’s serene Chinese Garden with a packed slate of traditional entertainment. Enjoy lion dancers, mask-changing performances, martial arts demonstrations, live music, arts and craft demos, and dining specials throughout the two-day event. Runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Tickets start at $29 for adults. More info here.

San Gabriel Lunar New Year Festival -> The City of San Gabriel celebrates the Lunar New Year this Saturday with a packed slate of cultural events in the Mission District, including traditional lion dancing, live performances, balloon art, guided walks, over 80 food and artisanal booths, and a kids zone. Events and activities run from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Get more info here.

Puppy Bowl Pup Rally -> This Saturday, The Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co., and Animal Planet will host the official Los Angeles Puppy Pup Rally with sports-themed activations for dogs to enjoy ahead of Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl XIX Sunday airing. Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co. will also be providing complimentary coffee and pup cups for all attendees. Stadium snacks, dog bandanas and photo ops are in the mix as well. The event runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets start at $10. More info here.

Lunar New Year at the Original Farmers Market -> This Saturday’s LNY celebration at the Original Farmers Market includes lion dances, arts and crafts, balloon twisting and red envelope giveaways. Run at the plaza from 2 to 4 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Dumpling Day at Santa Anita Park -> On Saturday, Smorgasburg curates a unique dumpling experience at Santa Anita Park featuring pop-up dumpling vendors Shirley Chung, Mao’s Bao, Cali Dumpling and dumpLins. A dumpling starter pack cost $34 and the VIP version coast $55. More info here.

Celebration of Life for P-22 -> Saturday’s community celebration of life for P-22 at the Greek Theater is sold out, but you can head to Angel City Brewery during the event to catch a livestream of the service (noon to 2 p.m.) and get $2 off all 12oz pours of P-22 beer. Sounds like a great way to toast to the most famous cat that ever prowled the streets of Los Angeles! Oh, and if you’re looking for other options for where to watch the stream with a group, the Los Angeles Public Library will host community watch gatherings at 11 branch locations beginning at noon. More info on ACB’s event here.

Hike to Yoga -> On the first Saturday of each month, Hike to Yoga organizes a free beginner-friendly walk at Kenneth Hahn Recreation Area followed by a group breath and movement session. Free to attend. The group meets at  the East Trailhead of Kenneth Hahn at 8 a.m. More info here.

SoCal Museum Free-For-All -> This Sunday, 30+ museums and cultural institutions around Southern California band together to offer a free day of admission on February 5 during the SoCal Museums Free-For-All. Participants include museums that are free year-round (The Getty, Hammer Museum, Fowler Museum) along with many others that normally charge admission fees (The Academy Museum, La Brea Tar Pits Museum, Descanso Gardens). Get more information here.

Listening By the Moonrise ->  Clockshop’s quarterly cultural series Listening By Moonrise returns on Sunday to the green space of L.A. State Historic Park as a collaboration with Earth Sessions. The February edition features readings by environmentalist writer Leah Thomas and multimedia artist Mandy Harris Williams, plus a performance by vocalist/bassist Tonina. Runs 3 to 5 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Nightmare Market LA -> This Sunday’s edition of Nightmare Market LA is a Valetine’s Day tribute bringing together 50+ vendors offering dark art-themed illustrations, paintings,, wet specimens, taxidermy, fine jewelry, fashion goods, merchandise, and oddities. The event also features DJ sets (mostly goth and industrial tunes) plus bites for purchase via Fuego Tacos and drinks from Barmaid Beauties. Runs noon to 6 p.m. at Monarch Studios in the Arts District. Tickets are $10. More info here.

Dining & Drinking

Free Wraps At All Five Kebab Shop Locations This Sunday -> Fast-casual Mediterranean cafe The Kebab Shop celebrates its rapid expansion by giving away free wraps on Sunday, February 5 from noon to 2 p.m. at all five Los Angeles locations of The Kebab Shop (El Segundo, Burbank, Northridge, Encino, and Cerritos). The freebie offered is the most popular wrap on the menu, the “San Diego Wrap” stuffed with a Kebab choice (carved chicken or lamb and beef doner), fries, feta, greens, tomato-cucumber, red onion, and garlic yogurt sauce. No purchase is necessary to receive the complimentary wrap. More info here. 

Lucky 8 Specials at The Original Farmers Market -> Merchants at The Original Farmers Market are currently offering “Lucky 8” specials in honor of Lunar New Year. Happening now through February 5 the public can take advantage of $8 food and drink deals, $8 butcher promos to .88 cent produce from farm stands. 

Sunday Supper Series at Botanica -> Botanica in Silver Lake is launching a monthly Sunday Supper series featuring a vegetable focused multi-course menu. Kicking things off is a mushroom-themed dinner on Sunday, February 5 highlighting fungi producer Smallhold. Prepared by Botanica’s Chef Alex Weston Barkley, ‘shrooms will be front-and-center from appetizer to dessert. Two special cocktails made with Isolation Proof’s mushroom gin will also be available for the evening. The five-course supper costs $60 a person and reservations can be made through Resy or by calling the restaurant. Future guest chef collaborations for Sunday Suppers this year will include Bridgetown Roti, Woon, and Fly by Jing. 

My Lai Kitchen Anniversary Party -> Modern Vietnamese eatery My Lai Kitchen celebrate four-years of success in Mar Vista with a party on Saturday, February 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. The public can stop by for free banh mi sandwiches, giveaways, music, and other celebratory surprises. More info here. 

Looking ahead…

Mort and Betty’s Tu Bishvot Menu at Jewel ->  Mort and Betty’s Chef Megan Tucker will pop up at Jewel in Virgil Village on Monday, February 6 for a special Seven Spices menu in celebration of the Jewish holiday, Tu Bishvot (celebration of trees.) The a la carte menu includes Mort and Betty’s vegan creations such as a seasonal raisin, barley and olive Challah and Broccoli Knish, to classics like Matzo Ball Soup, Dill Pickle Latkes and Reuben Tacos made with seared beets. Reservations can be made on Resy. More info here. 

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Alright. New week. New month. New to-dos.

These next five days in Los Angeles, from January 30 to February 3, catch Designing with Disaster at Japan House LA, new exhibitions at Hauser & Wirth, Try/Step/Trip at The Wallis, First Thursdays in Westwood, First Fridays at Natural History Museum, the San Pedro Film Festival, and more. Enjoy your week to come!

Things To Do This Week

Designing with Disaster -> Designing with Disaster: Stories from Seven Regenerative Cities is the latest exhibition at Japan House LA. Inspired by the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, the exhibit introduces the concept of “Regenerative Urbanism” through interactive illuminated wells that envisioning seven hypothetical regenerative cities. Designing with Disaster runs through April 2. Free to visit. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. More info here.

How Has Computer Code Shaped Humanity? -> This Tuesday, Zócalo Public Square’s latest discussion event takes aim at the computing age, both in how the digital revolution has shaped day-to-day activities, and on a deeper level how it has redefined what it means to be human. The panel includes Tech entrepreneur Nonny de la Peña, author Charlton McIlwain, and internet activist Ethan Zuckerman. Audience members are invited to stick around post-discussion for snacks and refreshments. Happening this Tuesday. Free to attend. Starts at 7 p.m. More info here.

Whitney Houston Hotel -> The Estate of Whitney Houston and Primary Wave will honor the late singer’s career and life with a space inside the W Hollywood featuring a Sony 360 Reality Audio Immersive Listening Lounge, a memorabilia exhibit featuring personal photos and iconic gowns worn by Houston as well as a pop-up shop with exclusive merch. The official unveiling of the WH-Whitney Houston Hotel takes place Wednesday, and the public is welcome to check out the “hotel” through Sunday. More info here.

Hot Tub With Kurt And Kristen -> This Wednesday the hilarious weekly variety show Hot Tub hosted by Kurt Braunohler and Kristen Schaal stops by Permanent Records Roadhouse with a new group of comedians for a night of laughs, music and sketch comedy. Tickets cost $8 online in advance and $12 at the door. More info here.

Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst The Stars -> ​​The South Coast Botanic Garden morphs into a multi-sensory celestial pathway where guests will walk amongst the stars thanks to brilliant lights, cosmic visions, and astral song. Astra Lumina is the 17th experience in the Lumina Night Walk series created by Moment Factory. Adult tickets start at $34 and there’s an additional fee for parking. Open on select dates through February 19. More info here. 

Cirque FLIP Fabrique: Muse -> On Wednesday, the Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts at Pepperdine University welcomes Québec-based Cirque FLIP Fabrique for an evening of contemporary circus performances that include acrobats, trapeze artists, aerialists and other engaging performers. Tickets range $10 – $50. More info here.

New Exhibitions at Hauser & Wirth -> Hauser & Wirth’s Arts District location welcomes two new exhibitions starting this Thursday. Chinese artist Zeng Fanzh presents his first Los Angeles solo exhibition, featuring a series of large-scale, abstract landscapes in the South Gallery. Also debuting at the H&W will be Rita Ackermann Vertical Vanish, which will be on view in the North Gallery. Both exhibitions run through April 30. Get more info here.

First Thursdays in Westwood -> UCLA First Thursdays come in two parts: First there’s the Westwood Village Farmers Market from noon to 4 p.m., then an evening block party from 7 to 10 p.m. This month, the nighttime portion includes Cosmos-themed activities including meteorites on display, telescopes to view the Moon and Mars, a photo booth, and more. Free to attend. More info here.

First Thursday Artwalk in San Pedro -> The San Pedro Artwalk celebrates its 25th year this Thursday with open houses at studios and galleries on 6th and 7th street and live music on the corner of 6th and Mesa. The artwalk takes place from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Try/Step/Trip at The Wallis -> In Try/Step/Trip, Writer/Composer Dahlak Brathwaite takes inspiration from his own personal experience as a Black man exposed to the American criminal justice system to create a powerful and poetic spoken-word, musical told through the language of step dance. Part hip-hop and part dramatic performance, the show runs this Thursday through Sunday at The Wallis. Tickets start at $40. More info here.

Pop Cultured at The Lyric Hyperion -> Jimmy Pardo (Never Not Funny, Conan) hosts and judges three celebrity guests who compete to see who has the most pop-culture knowledge. Thursday’s lineup features Todd Glass (Netflix), Justine Marino (Comedy Central), and Daniel Van Kirk (Bob’s Burgers). Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15. More info here.

11th Annual San Pedro Film Festival -> This Thursday to Sunday, screen a number of diverse films that celebrate the culture and community of San Pedro. Artist MOBY will also make his directorial debut during this time with Punk Rock Vegan. Free to attend. All tickets can be reserved online. More info here.

First Fridays at NHM -> Natural History Museum’s signature monthly series returns for 2023 on February 3 with Dragons, Lore, and More, a discussion between Dr. Yewande Pearse and Rebecca C. Thompson, author of Fire, Ice, and Physics; The Science of Game of Thrones. The pair dissect the fantasy world’s made-up science and see how it matches up to the real-world. The evening also includes live music by Black Belt Eagle Scout and Ari Rivera, DJ sets in the nature garden, and pop-up experiences throughout the museum. Runs 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $20. Cosplay definitely encouraged! More info here.

“We The People” Billboard Exhibition -> Starting Friday, February 3, The Billboard Creative opens a new exhibition curated by Mona Kuhn that turns billboard advertising spaces into an open-air art for all to enjoy. The project features the work of 30 emerging and established artists working in a broad range of media – photography, painting, drawing, mixed media, and collage. We The People runs February 3­–28. More info here.

Abruzzo Wine Tasting with Ciavolich Winery -> Stop by Eataly this Friday for an Abruzzo Wine Tasting with Ciavolich Winery. Tickets cost $65 a person and include the wine tasting, food pairings and a discount to the wines featured. More info here.

Grand National Roadster Show -> The O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show is the longest-running indoor car show in the world, and this Friday to Sunday the event returns to the Fairplex in Pomona for its 73rd season of showcasing the country’s top custom cars. Expect over 1,000 of the best hot rods, customs, low riders, muscle cars, trucks and motorcycles from across the nation on display. Tickets start at $30 for a one-day pass. More info here.

First Fridays in Bixby Knolls -> First Fridays along Atlantic Ave in Long Beach have returned, featuring an evening of pop-up activities, and a celebration of Black History Month with the “Strength Behind us, Greatness Ahead of Us” exhibit at Expo Arts Center plus live live music, art and special promotions at breweries and restaurants. More info here.

Dining & Drinking

Last August, Palm Springs-based and James Beard Award-winner Workshop Kitchen & Bar expanded to Los Angeles, and has since made some exciting changes. After debuting with a single tasting menu, Chef Michael Beckman recently converted offerings to entirely a la carte dishes, allowing diners to create their own version of the perfect meal.

Beckman’s approach to California cuisine puts an experimental spin on some familiar dishes. Think Duck Confit paired with green kimchi lentils; whole oyster mushrooms fried southern style and served with a side of B&B pickles, buttermilk sauce and local spiced honey; a refreshing salad tossed with pomegranates in a salted plum furikake vinaigrette. It feels like Beckman’s ingredient choices are a nod to the diversity of Los Angeles.

Also, the place has a definite vibe. The futuristic space awes with 20-foot ceilings and mysterious egg shaped cocoons flanking both sides of the room. The “pods” are fitted with their own seating, and add some privacy to the dinner service. I think it’s the perfect setting for a date night, and it’s clear the restaurant was designed to impress. Most importantly, the food is superb. 

Workshop Kitchen & Bar is located at 127 S. La Brea Ave. Los Angeles CA, 90036. They are open Tuesday-Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

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Today is a tough one. As more and more details emerge from Saturday night’s horrific shooting in Monterey Park, our hearts fill with sadness, anger and confusion. The question jabs at us over and over… why did this have to happen? And while we do have a job to do in informing our readers about arts and cultural happenings in the city, just know that our feelings are bent toward the victims and their families.

Now as for this week in Los Angeles, from January 23-27 you’ll find an underground jazz session, new exhibitions at L.A. Louver, Burns Night pub trivia at The Chap, a special discussion panel on space via LAist Studios, Fourth Fridays in Long Beach, the Girls of the Golden West opera at Disney Concert Hall, a new exhibition at Armory Center for the Arts, and more. Stay safe out there. Be good to one another.

Things To Do This Week

Drive-By Theatre Festival -> Monday is the third (and final) night three of Zombie Joe’s 20th annual Drive-By Theatre Festival, which offers a brand new, fast-paced collection of mini-plays all written, produced, and performed in two days (or less). Show starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance, or $25 at the door. Get more info here.

Funny or Die Lab -> On Tuesday, Funny or Die Lab comes to Dynasty Typewriter for a comedy variety / stand-up show packed with local up-and-comers, all looking to test out brand new material Tickets are $10 in advance, or $15 on the day-off. Show starts at 7 p.m. Get more info here.

New Exhibitions at L.A. Louver -> Venice art gallery L.A. Louver opens two new exhibitions this Wednesday, including Alison Saar’s Uproot, which explores the complex history of Black womanhood and resilience in the United States through a mix of striking sculptures and paintings. The opening reception runs 6 to 8 p.m. L.A. Louver’s normal hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pub Trivia at The Chap -> Hollywood’s newest British Pub, The Chap, now offers a bi-weekly pub quiz game hosted by quizmaster TJ Ramin. This Wednesday, The Chap’s trivia night pays homage to Robert Burns, the 18th century Scottish poet whose birthday falls on January 25. Teams of up to 6 can play. Starts at 7:30 p.m. You can reserve a team slot by emailing [email protected]

Space in LA: Exploring the Lasting Legacy -> This Thursday evening at the Crawford Family Forum, LAist Studios presents a special live discussion event hosted by M.G. Lord (LA Made: Blood, Sweat & Rockets) featuring scientists and engineers from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The group will discuss the outlook for new missions to space and how STEM education is prepping young students to be the scientists and engineers of tomorrow. First-come, first-serve tickets are pay-what-you-will to RSVP, and you can purchase reserved seating for $15. More info here.

Underground Jazz Sessions -> Guitarist Matthew Yeakley hosts an intimate evening of live jazz every Thursday at DTLA’s Continental Club, featuring special guests and some terrific players. No cover to attend, plus they offer complimentary mini cupcakes (while supplies last). Starts at 7 p.m. More info here.

White Time at The Elysian -> Originally conceived for The Elysian’s Forget About Spaghetti Festival, Kristin Wallace’s White Time is now back at the Frogtown-adjacent theater for a three-day run this Thursday to Saturday. Wallace, a queer Black woman, dons whiteface and a full white skinsuit to deliver what she calls a “gift receipt to the Jim Crow era.” Tickets are $18. All shows start at 7:30 p.m. Get more info here.

Fourth Fridays on 4th Street -> Retro Row in Long Beach comes alive on the fourth Friday of the month with special pop-ups, live performances, and extended store hours from shops on 4th St between Temple and Cherry. The event runs 6 to 9 p.m. Get more info here.

PCH Movies & Moonlight -> On Friday in Long Beach, catch another edition of 2nd & PCH’s Movies & Moonlight series, featuring a free outdoor showing of Disney’s Mulan beginning at 6 p.m. The evening includes free face painting on Seaport Way beteween 5 to 7 p.m. 5:00

Girls of the Golden West -> This Friday, the Walt Disney Concert Hall hosts an evening performance of Girls of the Golden West, a two-act opera set California Gold Rush, with music by John Adams and a libretto by Peter Sellars based on the memoirs of a woman who called herself Dame Shirley. Tickets start as low as $40. Performance begins at 8 p.m. More info here.

Exposure: Native Art and Political Ecology -> This Friday, a fresh exhibition comes to Armory Center For the Arts in Pasadena, grappling with issue of toxic waste on indigenous lands through a mix of mediums that includes sculptures, video installation, photography, collage, glasswork, metalwork, fiber, paintings, and virtual-reality experiences. Some three dozen (mostly indigenous) artists contributed to Exposure: Native Art and Political Ecology, which debuted at Museum of Contemporary Native Arts in Santa Fe in 2021. Admission to Armory Center For the Arts is always free. Open Friday to Sunday. More info here.

Dining & Drinking

Momed’s New Early Supper Menu -> This longtime Mediterranean spot in Atwater Village just launched a new early supper promotion where, for $35, guests can enjoy a three course prix fixe menu from mezzes to beef and lamb meatballs and an Egyptian syrup-soaked semolina cake. The deal is available Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to  6:30 p.m. Happy hour also runs at the same time with a selection of bites, cocktails, beer and wine ranging from $5 to $10. Wine enthusiasts can also take advantage of half-off bottles on Tuesdays and free corkage on Wednesdays. More info here. 

Otoño Launches Lunch -> On Wednesday, January 25, Highland Park’s Otoño launches lunch service with a day time menu that includes a Spanish Charcuterie board served with bub and grandma’s baguette, Croqueta Jamón Serrano, Bocadillos –  Spanish style sandwiches stuffed with brisket, jamon or anchovies and other bites. Lunch is served Wednesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. More info here.  

The Hideaway Special Lunch Deal -> Beginning today,The Hideaway in Beverly Hills launches a special prix fixe lunch menu that costs $28 a person. The “Uno, Dos, Tres Menu” includes a guacamole starter and a three course menu featuring items such as Wagyu Beef Tartare, Fajitas and Churros with Oaxacan chocolate sauce. Lunch is available daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More info here. 

Restaurant Weeks -> Just a quick reminder that Pasadena Cheeseburger week and Long Beach Black Restaurant Week continue through this coming weekend!

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Well, the rain has stopped for the time being, but did anyone else have to swipe ice off their windshield this morning? Just us? Cool, cool…

Moving on! This weekend in Los Angeles, check out the Dance Camera West Festival, multiple Lunar New Year events (including at USC Pacific Asia Museum), a new art show at Brand Library, Zombie Joe’s Drive-By Theatre Festival, goat yoga in Burbank, an L.A. Made discussion at Central Library, and more. Grab a coat, find a to-do, and get to it.

Things To Do This Weekend

Dance Camera West Festival -> This Thursday to Saturday, celebrate the art form of dance at this annual film festival at Barnsdall Gallery Theatre featuring a packed slate of free and ticketed screenings and programs. Opening night includes a free sunset screening of short films screened outdoors at Barnsdall Art Park. See the full schedule and get more info here.

The Lucky Lefty Tour at Ace -> Emmy-nominated writer/comedian Nimesh Patel (Saturday Night Live, A Little Late with Lilly Singh) brings an evening of standup to DTLA’s Ace Hotel Theatre this Friday, starting at 7:30 pf.m. Tickets start at $32. Get more info here.

Monterey Jazz Festival -> This Friday evening, the Walt Disney Concert Hall welcomes an iconic group of players from the Monterey Jazz Festival for a special one-night event. The touring ensemble features Grammy-winning vocalists Dee Dee Bridgewater and Kurt Elling along with star saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin, pianist Christian Sands, bassist Yasushi Nakamura and drummer Clarence Penn. Tickets start as low as $49. Concert begins at 8 p.m. More info here.

Simone Forti at MOCA -> Now at the Museum of Contemporary Art on Grand Ave, check out the first west coast exhibition documenting the career of artist, dancer, and choreographer Simone Forti. As part of the collection of works, visitors can experience “Dance Constructions” on select times on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays following the opening. The museum is normally open Tuesday to Sunday starting at 11 a.m. Admission is free. Get more info here.

L.A. Body Art Expo -> This Friday to Sunday, the L.A. Body Art Expo brings 250 of America’s best tattoo artists to the L.A. Convention Center for a three-day affair featuring music, beer, plus 22 tattoo contests, and more. Tickets start at $25 for single-day admission. Get more info here.

Lunar New Year Festival in Monterey Park -> This weekend, the city of Monterey Park welcomes the year of the rabbit with a two-day event featuring lion and dragon dancers (Saturday) as well as a carnival and various types of entertainment on both days. Food vendors, cultural experiences and unique gift booths will also be part of the festival. Free to attend. More info here.

Lunar New Year at 2nd & PCH -> Long Beach shopping destination 2nd & PCH hosts family-friendly Lunar New Year festivities this Saturday, including lion dance performances, complimentary airbrush tattoos and balloons courtesy of Karen’s Face Painting, and print-making craft hosted by Able ARTS Work. Runs from 3 to 5 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Nexus IV: Riaz -> This Saturday, Glendale’s Brand Library hosts an opening reception for Nexus IV: Riaz, a new group art show curated by Tlaloc Studios and Thinkspace Projects featuring some 60 artists. Nexus features solo exhibitions from Anthony Clarkson, Ken Flewellyn, Matthew Grabelsky, Anthony Hurd and Cody Jimenez; plus site-specific murals from Brek, Love Yo Dreams and Mr. B Baby. The opening reception takes place from 4 to 10 p.m., and will include food provided by Zavalas Pies, Sweet Life LA and Bad Jimmy’s, plus a cash bar and DJs. The exhibition runs through March 17. Get more info here.

Lunar New Year at the L.A. Zoo -> This Saturday and Sunday, the Los Angeles Zoo celebrates Lunar New Year with a full lineup of pop-up activities and evening performances. Offerings include a Wall of Well Wishes, a Zoo-diac Mask Making craft station, a Red Lantern Photo O, and a Zoo-diac Tour. All activities are included with zoo admission, which starts at $22 for adults. More info here.

“Let’s Play” at Brella -> Brella, a child care and early education center in Hollywood, is hosting an open house and family fun curriculum event this Saturday featuring a range of kid’s activities, including art, sensory play, musical instruments from HAMA, family yoga and more. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and is free to attend. Get more info and register here.

Drive-By Theatre Festival -> To kickoff the 2023 season at Zombie Joe’s Underground, the indie North Hollywood theater hosts their 20th annual Drive-By Theatre Festival, a brand new, fast-paced collection of mini-plays all written, produced, and performed in two days (or less). Shows take place nightly at 8:30 p.m. this Saturday through Monday. Tickets are $20 in advance, or $25 at the door. Get more info here.

Lunar New Year at Plaza West Covina -> This Saturday, Plaza West Covina celebrates Lunar New Year with a range of family friendly activities, including Dragon and Lion Dancing, Wushu acrobats, a Chinese Face Changer, Shaolin Warriors and more. Free to attend. Starts at 2 p.m. More info here.

Lunar New Year at UPAM ->[UPDATE: This event has been cancelled in the wake of the mass shooting in Monterey Park] USC Pacific Asia Museum celebrate the year of the rabbit this Sunday with a day of family-friendly activities and performances, including a traditional lion dance, storytelling, calligraphy and crafts, and food trucks. Plus, admission to the museum is free for the day. Keep in mind, this weekend is also the last chance to see After Modernism: Through the Lens of Wayne Thom. Activities run 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Get more info here.

Goat Yoga + Hike -> This Sunday in Burbank, Hello Critter Yoga hosts an all-levels yoga session (with goats mingling among attendees), followed by a moderate hike (goats and all) through the nearby foothills. Tickets to attend are $40, and exact location will be provided upon purchase. Starts at 11 a.m. More info here.

L.A. Made: Gregory Bojorquez -> This Sunday, former Los Angeles Poet Laureate Luis J. Rodriguez joins L.A.-born photographer Gregory Bojorquez at Central Library’s Mark Taper Auditorium for a discussion about Bojorquez’s new book Eastsiders, which includes images spanning the artists 25-year career documenting scenes, stories and people of East Los Angeles. The discussion is free to attend, and there will also be a chance to win a free copy of Eastsiders. Starts at 2 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

From the Danube to the Pacific, Reinventing Home: The Artwork of Dave Fox -> Starting this Sunday at 3 p.m., Holocaust Museum L.A. opens a new exhibit featuring paintings, drawings, silkscreens and sculpture by artist Dave Fox. Fox, a Holocaust survivor originally born in Vienna, draws inspiration from from his childhood along with images from his adopted home in Los Angeles. The pairing of the two locations connects a reality of trauma, displacement, and ultimately reclamation. Sunday’s opening includes a conversation with Rabbi Karen Fox (the artist’s daughter), Curator Georgia Freedman-Harvey and Holocaust Museum LA Vice President of Education and Exhibitions Jordanna Gessler. Holocaust Museum L.A. adult admission is normally $15, but entry is free with advanced reservation on Thursdays and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Get more info here.

Dining & Drinking

(picks by Christina Champlin)

The Waterfront Bottomless Brunch Buffet -> The Venice restaurant recently rolled out a brunch buffet every weekend where $35 gets you all-you-can-eat from different food stations set up in the back patio. Find Belgian waffles, an omelet station, breakfast burritos, smoothies and other treats at the buffet. Add on an all-you-can-drink option for $30. More info here.  

Long Beach Black Restaurant Week -> This Sunday, the second annual Long Beach Black Restaurant Week returns (January 22-29) for eight days of celebrating African American, African and Caribbean cuisine. Black owned businesses around the city will offer a number of special deals that range from $5 to $30. Pop up events will take place next week at The Cove Hotel and Trademark Brewing with a handful of participants. More info here.   

Butcher’s Breakfast Club -> Trendy West Hollywood hotspot Butcher’s Daughter has launched an all-inclusive weekday breakfast bar from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday. For $23 a guests a wide spread of morning treats will be offered including fresh pressed juices, fried chicken and waffles, vegan carrot lox and bagels, loads of pastries, parfaits, organic coffee and even zero proof espresso martinis ($9). Magazines and newspapers will also be offered to guests for a relaxing morning experience. Walk-in seats and reservations are both available. More info here. 

Pasadena Cheeseburger Week -> Did you know the cheeseburger was invented in Pasadena? Starting this Sunday, pay homage to the genius of Lionel Sternberger by visiting the city during Pasadena Cheeseburger Week. 40 restaurants, lounges and casual spots will offer signature burgers, special creations and deals just for the occasion. More info here.

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The skies are clearing up, the holiday weekend is over, and we’re back with a fresh list to start your work week in Los Angeles.

This January 17-20 in L.A. catch Da Poetry Lounge at Zócalo, a new art gallery opening in West Hollywood, artist Chloë Bass in conversation at Skirball, the L.A. Body Art Expo, the Monterey Jazz Festival at Disney Concert Hall, and more. Whatever you decide, hope you have a good one!

Things To Do This Week

Da Poetry Lounge Comes to Zócalo Public Square  -> This Tuesday, spoken word poets take the Zócalo stage at the ASU California Center for a night that prompts the question, Does Democracy Need Poets? The lineup features with Beau Sia performing “We Voting,” and Sekou Andrews and Steve Connell performing “Water Stained Black,” followed by a conversation with the poets about the ways artists engage with politics, and fuel democracy. Free to attend. More info here.

Free Garden Days -> The South Coast Botanic Garden, L.A. Arboretum, and Descanso Gardens all offer free admission on the third Tuesday of every month. Note that all three required advance reservations, and space is limited. If you miss this Tuesday’s free days, make sure to check out our big list of free museum days to see other upcoming options.

Simone Forti at MOCA -> Over the weekend the Museum of Contemporary Art on Grand Ave debuted first west coast exhibition documenting the career of artist, dancer, and choreographer Simone Forti. As part of the collection of works, visitors can experience “Dance Constructions” on select times on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays following the opening. The museum is normally open Tuesday to Sunday starting at 11 a.m. Admission is free. Get more info here.

Future Without Fear -> FUTURE WITHOUT FEAR is now open at Praz-Delavallade gallery on Wilshire Blvd. The new new art and culture exhibit features photography from myriad contributors, and centers on issues of mental health, young Black motherhood, alienation, individuality, intersectionality, poverty, and community. Free and open to the public during normally gallery hours following the opening, Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More info here.

A Conversation with Chloë Bass -> This Wednesday, multi-form conceptual artist Chloë Bass stops by Skirball Cultural Center for a conversation with museum curators about the roles of artists and institutions in preserving culture and memory. Co-presented with the California African American Museum. Tickets are $10. Event starts at 7 p.m. More info here.

Between You and Me -> West Hollywood’s newly-opened Mey Gallery hosts their first-ever exhibition starting this Wednesday. Between You and Me is a group exhibition featuring recent works by Kevin Douillez, Mia Weiner, Aryana Minai, Thérèse Mulgrew, Eric Stefanski, and Ally Rae Peeples. Works will be on view through January 25. Get more info here.

Dolly Parton Tribute at Desert 5 Spot -> If you’re feeling a little country this week, head to Desert 5 Spot in Hollywood this Thursday for a special birthday tribute to the one and only Dolly Parton. Expect live performances and plenty of libations, with 10% of their sales from select specialty cocktails going to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Starts around 9 p.m. More info here.

Dance Camera West Festival -> This Thursday to Saturday, Celebrate the art form of dance at this annual film festival at Barnsdall Gallery Theatre featuring a packed slate of free and ticketed screenings and programs. Opening night includes a free sunset screening of short films screened outdoors at Barnsdall Art Park. See the full schedule and get more info here.

Monterey Jazz Festival -> This Friday evening, the Walt Disney Concert Hall welcomes an iconic group of players from the Monterey Jazz Festival for a special one-night event. The touring ensemble features Grammy-winning vocalists Dee Dee Bridgewater and Kurt Elling along with star saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin, pianist Christian Sands, bassist Yasushi Nakamura and drummer Clarence Penn. Tickets start as low as $49. Concert begins at 8 p.m. More info here.

L.A. Body Art Expo -> This Friday to Sunday, the L.A. Body Art Expo brings 250 of America’s best tatoo artists to the L.A. Convention Center for a three-day affair featuring music, beer, plus 22 tattoo contests, and more. Tickets start at $25 for single-day admission. Get more info here.

Dining & Drinking

Steep x tiger & horses Lunar New Year Menu -> Starting this Thursday, Steep in Chinatown kicks off a collaboration with tiger & horses on a Lunar New Year menu, to be available January 19-21 from 4 to 10 p.m. Expect modern Taiwanese faves like Tainan Fish Soup, Peads & Barnett Collar Steak, Baked Oysters and Strawberry Mochi Cake. Available first-come, first-served. More info here. 

Chinese New Year Specials at Woon -> Celebrate the year of the rabbit at Woon in Westlake this Friday Sunday, when the restaurant will offer Lunar New Year classics such as Stir Fried Rice Cakes, Pan Fried Pork Dumplings and Chinese Chive Moneybags and Black Sesame Glutinous Rice Balls. Guests who dine-in will be entered into the Red Envelope Roulette to redeem treats. More info here.  

Dear Bella Creamery Lunar New Year Ice Cream Kit -> In celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year, the plant-based creamy Dear Bella has released a Chinese New Year ice cream kit for in-store purchase from Jan. 16 through Feb. 11. The kit includes three pints of Asian inspired ice cream flavors including Dear Bella’s classic Taiwanese Pineapple Cake. A jar of Red Bean Sauce, a variety of Chinese treats, red envelopes and a Dear Bella insulated bag is also included. Price is $58.88. More info here. 

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