Events
KCON
Aug. 18-20. This summer’s annual K-pop convention is a must-attend event for all “Hallyu” enthusiasts. The three-day festival features engaging panels, interactive workshops, exclusive signings and concerts at the Crypto.com Arena, showcasing an impressive lineup of Korean celebrities. Friday-Sunday, starts 10 a.m. L.A. Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles. kconusa.com
Lucha VaVOOM
Aug. 18. A unique event that blends “sexo y violencia” in an exuberant showcase of Mexican wrestling, where the classic battle of good versus evil comes to life. In addition to the masked luchadores’ athletic prowess, the spectacle includes burlesque performances, Aztec dancers and humorous commentary. Guests can enhance their experience with tequila and tamales, available for purchase during the show. Friday, at 8 p.m. 1038 S. Hill St., Los Angeles. luchavavoom.com
Hotter Cornbread Festival
Aug. 20. A journey through the heart of Southern cuisine, this diverse lineup of Southern chefs present a unique spin on classic dishes—from succulent fried chicken to smoky barbecued ribs and gumbo. The festival doesn’t stop at food; it offers attendees the opportunity to explore and support an extensive array of over 100 black-owned shops. Sunday, 12 – 8 p.m. 961 E. 61st, Los Angeles. Get Tickets Now
New Game Show, BEAT THE BRIDGE, Seeking SoCal Locals!
Now Accepting. Game Show Network is looking for the ultimate team of three that can work together to BEAT THE BRIDGE for a chance to win over $10,000! On BEAT THE BRIDGE the answers are right under your feet. All you have to do is step on the correct answers to cross the Bridge and win big. You just need a team of 3 family members, friends, or co-workers to play. All participants MUST be 18 years of age by October 24, 2023 and local or in Los Angeles for dates of taping during October and November. For more information apply, at: https://form.jotform.com/GSNCasting/beat-the-bridge
Food + Drinks
Santō in Silver Lake
Aug. 19. A new sushi and hand roll bar debuts in Silver Lake on Sunset Boulevard. An extension from Roma Norte in Mexico City, Santō offers both traditional and distinctive sushi choices, such as the hamachi nigiri accented with Oaxacan chocolate and the Binchōtan-seared otoro sashimi. And for dessert, enjoy flavors from Pazzo Gelato, including ube and matcha. Thursday-Saturday, 5-11 p.m. Sunday, Monday and Wednesday, 5-10 p.m. 3822 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles. Reserve Now
Eataly LA’s Festa Di Ferragosto
Aug. 17. Italy celebrates of the onset of summer vacations and the nation’s zest for life on August 15th. Eataly LA invites everyone to their version of this special day by indulging in traditional Ferragosto delicacies, summer spritzes, Italian wines and live performances. Starts this Thursday, at 6:30-9 p.m. 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles. Get Tickets Now
Sushi by Scratch Pop-Up
Now Open. Chef-duo Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee unveil a limited-time pop-up of its lauded Sushi by Scratch Restaurants at the Beverly Wilshire. Situated in the hotel’s exclusive Royal Suite on the eighth floor is a 12-seat intimate dining setting with 17-course nigiri tastings. The menu blends Chef Lee’s signature creations with new innovations, and concludes with Chef Margarita’s Matcha Bon Bon dessert. Open daily, seatings at 5 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. Reserve Now
Sunset with Lady Byrd
Now Open. Lady Byrd Café at Echo Park continues to elevate its dining experience with their new Sunset menu. It features a diverse range of flavors, with a new Meza Plate that boasts falafel, hummus, olives, and an assortment of fresh vegetables served with pita, and the decadent trio of crab cakes. Those seeking a plant-based alternative will appreciate the innovative “Black Sheep” skewers, crafted to mimic the rich taste of lamb. Open daily, hours vary. 2100 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles. ladybyrdcafe.com
Arts + Culture
Tchaikovsky Spectacular
Aug. 18-19. The Hollywood Bowl revives its esteemed tradition, the Tchaikovsky Spectacular, led by the charismatic Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser. It features pieces from “Swan Lake” to “Romeo and Juliet.” Accomplished Chopin Competition victor Bruce Liu will grace the stage with the passionate First Concerto. The evening culminates with the USC Trojan Marching Band and a fireworks display accompanying the 1812 Overture. Friday-Saturday, at 8 p.m. 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles. hollywoodbowl.com
Les Misérables
Now Playing. The Tony Award-winning musical, Les Misérables is a captivating story set in 19th-century France with themes of love, passion, sacrifice, and resilience. The powerful score features iconic songs like “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” and “One Day More.” Hours vary per showtime. 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles. broadwayinhollywood.com
HollyShorts Film Festival
Aug. 17-20. Highlighting rising talent, the Hollyshorts Film Festival screens international short films in a ten-day event packed with networking and filmmaker Q&As. Taking place at the TCL Chinese 6 multiplex, the annual fest features a diverse range of films, each under 40 minutes, running from early afternoon to midnight. Thursday-Sunday, starts at 12 p.m. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Level 3, Los Angeles. More Information
Dive into Strigoia’s Shadows with “fangs”
Now Open. From the creators of “Witch!” comes “fangs!”, a gripping immersive vampire experience. Dive into Strigoia, a village on the brink of vanishing due to a vampire infestation. Engage with its inhabitants, confront the enigmatic outsider and partake in the Harvest Queen election. Expect haunted venues, solo interactions with actors and a journey distinct from those of your companions. Starts Friday, 8-10 p.m. 3800 Homer St., Los Angeles. Get Tickets Now
Photo credit: Fireworks shot by The Hollywood Bowl. Les Miserable by The Pantages Theatre. fangs by Heritage Square Museum. Photograph by Lady Byrd by Vivien Best. Santō by Jakob N. Layman All other images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
