From the Getty’s ambitious Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA to music and wine festivals celebrating the last days of summer, here are 50+ Los Angeles things to do in September.
Edited by Christina Wiese.
LA County Fair
Sept. 1-24. The Fairplex in Pomona transforms this September to bring you all things country living. Cheer on a racing pig, chow down on deep-fried everything or ride one of 70 thrilling roller coasters. New additions for 2017 include an interactive gaming show fresh art exhibits and The Taylor Swift Experience presented by the Grammy Museum. Evening concerts throughout the month include performances by Hunter Hayes, Juanes, Patti LaBelle and Queen Latifah, Trace Adkins, Fifth Harmony, Chicago and Migos, among others. See website for hours. $8-$20, under 6 free. 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona, 909.623.3111. lacountyfair.com
John Williams: Maestro of Movies
Sept. 1-3. Legendary music composer John Williams (Jaws, Star Wars series, the first three Harry Potter films) returns to the Hollywood Bowl to conduct an evening of cinematic magic under the stars. David Newman kicks off the evening and a selection of film clips will be featured on the big screen. See website for start time and ticket pricing. Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., L.A. hollywoodbowl.com
The Taste
Sept. 1-3. The LA Times’ annual food and wine festival celebrates the City of Angels’ vibrant culinary scene. Over the course of Labor Day weekend, discover both renowned and hidden gem eateries while enjoying wine seminars, cooking demos and delicious spirits. Jonathan Gold, the LA Times’ own Pulitzer Prize-winning food critic, will be on-hand at multiple events to take you through the city’s rich and diverse food scene. 21+. Tickets start at $95, discounts available for LA Times subscribers. Paramount Pictures Studios, 783 N. Van Ness Ave., L.A., 213.237.5000. events.latimes.com
Rooftop BBQ at WP24 by Wolfgang Puck
Sept. 2. Take in stunning views of downtown Los Angeles while chowing down on BBQ classics such as spicy and sweet baby back ribs, pulled Kurobuta pork shoulder and glazed grilled Jidori chicken. Recover from your meat-induced coma by sipping poolside on a refreshing cocktail such as frosé. Noon-5 p.m. $45/pp. Reservations encouraged. Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles, 900 W Olympic Blvd., downtown, 213.743.8800. ritzcarlton.com
Made in LA
Sept. 2-3. Golden Road Brewing’s inaugural music and arts festival brings together L.A.-based creators in celebration of local art, music and beer. Enjoy performances by Warren G, Yacht, Buyepongo and more, plus artists and vendor booths, tasty food and fresh craft beer brewed right next door. All ticket proceeds go to local charities. Check website for set times. Weekend pass (including two beer tickets) $30. 5410 W. San Fernando Road, L.A. goldenroad.la
Fiesta Hermosa
Sept. 2-4. Over 300 artisans set up shop in downtown Hermosa Beach for one of the largest craft fairs in Southern California. This family-friendly affair boasts a food court featuring 18 different kinds of ethnic food, a charity beer and wine garden, petting zoo, carnival rides and two stages for music. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Event happens along Pier Plaza, Hermosa Avenue and lower Pier Avenue. fiestahermosa.net
Cinespia
Sept. 2, 3, 9, 16. Watch favorite films of yesterday and today projected on a mausoleum wall during this popular Amazon Studios-sponsored film series at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Also on hand are pre-movie DJs and themed photo booths. Monthly highlights include Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Coming to America with special guest Questlove. See website for full schedule. Gates 7:15 p.m.; movie 9 p.m. $16. Parking $12-$20. 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A., 877.435.9849. cinespia.org
EAT/SEE/HEAR
Sept. 2, 9, 16. Traveling outdoor movie-event series, presented by Showtime, boasts the largest outdoor inflatable screen on the West Coast, as well as food trucks and live musical performances. This month’s highlights include Goodfellas and Amélie. See website for a full schedule. 5 p.m. $8-$21, under 5 free. 213.267.4393. eatseehear.com
Street Food Cinema
Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. Outdoor summer film series hosts screenings every Saturday night at various locations across L.A. Enjoy live music and food from the city’s top trucks. Highlights this month include Jaws, Dirty Dancing (with a surprise special guest) and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. See website for full schedule. Doors 5:30 p.m.; band 6:30 p.m.; movie 8:30 p.m. $6-$21, under 6 free. 323.254.5068. streetfoodcinema.com
End of Summer Luau at Marina del Rey Hotel
Sept. 3. Poolside paradise awaits as Marina del Rey Hotel’s culinary team bids adieu to summer. Hula on over for specialty cocktails, spiked punch, Hawaiian-inspired eats, fresh poke and DJs spinning live on the pool deck. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Cabanas and Daybeds available for rental. Marina del Rey Hotel, 13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey, 310.301.1000. marinadelreyhotel.com
First Annual West Adams Block Party
Sept. 3. Rappers Talib Kweli and Doug E. Fresh headline a celebration of music, arts, culture and diversity in historic West Adams. Taking the stage throughout the day will be a variety of jazz, funk, soul and hip-hop artists, as well as DJs. Detroit’s hip-hop inspired donut shop, Dilla’s Delights–launched by the legendary music producer J Dilla’s uncle–will have a special fried dough pop-up. Activities for kids include the magnificent “West Adams” castle jumper, games and face painting. 2-10 p.m. Free. Delicious Pizza, 5419 West Adams Blvd., L.A. deliciouspizza.com
6th Annual Nightshift Labor Day Music Festival
Sept. 4. Grammy-nominated American rocker Grace Potter headlines an evening of eclectic music at Grand Park. Other acts taking the stage include Prince’s legendary band The Revolution, Latin-Jazz musician Poncho Sanchez, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, L.A.-based Latin hip-hop fusion band Ozomatli and SoCal’s own Latin-funk band B-Side Players. The high-energy music festival also feature a beer garden and food trucks. Doors at 11 a.m.; First act at noon. Tickets start at $20. Grand Park, 200 N. Grand Ave., downtown. workingcalifornians.org
The Last Pool Party of Summer
Sept. 4. Grab your shades and get ready to send summer off with a bang at Viceroy Santa Monica. The 2nd annual Labor Day pool party brings together DJs, dancing, discounted Svedka cocktails and Jell-O shots, BBQ, pool floats and your next late-summer crush. Flash your shades on the red carpet entry, complete with step and repeat, as well as props. Pool attire encouraged. First 200 guests receive complimentary sunglasses. 1-5 p.m. $10-20. Viceroy Santa Monica, 1819 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica. thelastpoolparty.eventbrite.com
LA Fleet Week
Through Sept. 4. The 2nd annual LA Fleet Week honors the US Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard by bringing active military ships recently deployed overseas to dock in the Port of Los Angeles. Featured entertainment over the six night bash includes an evening of Mötley Crüe hits with lead vocalist Vince Neil, comedy shows, performances by local bands, food trucks and a fireworks spectacular above Battleship IOWA. Free. Event takes place at various locations along the L.A. Waterfront, including the Los Angeles Cruise Terminal, Battleship IOWA, and Downtown Harbor in San Pedro. lafleetweek.com
Burbank International Film Festival
Sept. 6-10. Ninth annual festival champions up-and-coming filmmakers and features film premieres, a red-carpet reception and an awards-show gala. This year’s opening-night film is The List, starring Once Upon a Time’s Jennifer Morrison. Check website for full schedule and ticket prices. AMC Burbank 16, 125 E. Palm Ave., Burbank. burbankfilmfest.org
Iphigenia in Aulis at Getty Villa
Sept. 7-30. The annual fall series at picturesque Getty Villa returns with the classical tragedy Iphigenia in Aulis. Explore the galleries before the performance (6-7:45 p.m.) or opt for a three-course prix fixe dinner with wine pairings. Blankets encouraged. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $36. Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, 310.440.7300. getty.edu
Above Sixty Movie Nights
Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28. Spend Wednesday nights watching your favorite flicks above Beverly Hills. The Sixty Hotel offers complementary movies on the hotel’s rooftop that includes Fast Times at Ridgemont High (Sept. 7), Grease (Sept. 14), The Breakfast Club (Sept. 21) and Pretty Woman (Sept. 28). Movies begin at 9 p.m. 9360 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. caulfieldsbeverlyhills.com
Easy Rider Live
Sept. 8. In this movie-meets-concert mashup, watch indie classic Easy Rider with its bestselling soundtrack played live by a seven-piece band. Doors at 7:30 p.m. $30-$50. The Wiltern, 3790 Wilshire Blvd., L.A. wiltern.com
Fireworks Finale: The Muppets Take the Bowl
Sept. 8, 9, 10. Join Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie the Bear and the rest of the gang for a sensational evening under stars. More than just a concert, the musical extravagana marks The Muppets’ first-ever full-length live show and will feature special guests and never-before-seen antics alongside the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. Spectacular fireworks cap off the evening. F-Sa 8 p.m., Su 7:30 p.m. See website for ticket pricing. 2301 N. Highland Ave., L.A. hollywoodbowl.com
Carmen
Opens Sept. 9. Unrequited love can be a deadly thing, and Georges Bizet’s nearly 150-year-old opera Carmen could not capture the unfolding of such a scenario—among a bullfighter, a gypsy woman and her scorned corporal lover—more intensely or melodiously. The LA Opera opens its 2017-18 season with a production of the opera conducted by James Conlon; Grammy Award winner Ana Maria Martinez mesmerizes with a come-hither gaze in the title role. See website for schedule and tickets.135 N. Grand Ave., downtown. laopera.org
Cuba Is
Opens Sept. 9. The Annenberg Space for Photography presents a photo exhibition that goes beyond the folklore of Cuba and offers new insight into its current reality. In addition to the 120 photo exhibit, a virtual reality experience brings the dynamic music of Cuba directly to you via a stroll along the storied Malecón. See website for hours. Free. 2000 Avenue of the Stars, L.A. annenbergphotospace.org
The Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (ICA LA)
Opens Sept. 9. Founded in 1984 as the Santa Monica Museum of Art, The Institute of Contemporary Art will open its doors this month in the DTLA Arts District. Expect art that sparks discovery and challenges the way you see and experience the world. 1717 E. 7th St., downtown, 310.284.8100. theicala.org
L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade
Sept. 9. Over 50 top chefs—including Suzanne Goin, Giada De Laurentiis and Scott Conant—and mixologists serve signature menu items at this philanthropic culinary event that helps fund the fight against childhood cancer. 12:30-4:30 p.m. $195, under 13 free; meet-and-greet $1,200. Royce Quad, UCLA, 405 Hilgard Ave., L.A., 610.649.3034. alexslemonade.org
Big Night
Opens Sept. 10. Master satirist Paul Rudnick’s new play—having its world premiere at the Douglas—explores family and fame by following the stressful night of an Oscar nominee. See website for schedule and pricing. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City. centertheatregroup.org
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Through Sept. 10. Simon Stephens’ Tony-winning play follows brilliant but socially awkward 15-year-old Christopher, who sets out to find the real culprit when he is suspectd of killing his neighbor’s dog. See website for show times and pricing. 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772. centertheatregroup.org
VINO-Palooza
Sept. 10. Enjoy tastings from more than 20 wineries, as well as local craft beers, spirits and small bites as you sway along to unplugged performances by Top 40 music artists Ryan Cabrera, Secondhand Serenade and more. Event benefits Adopt the Arts Foundation. 21+. 1-5 p.m. $50-$70. Marina del Rey Hotel, 13534 Bail Way. vino-palooza.com
Head of Passes
Opens Sept. 13. This moving new drama from MacArthur “Genius Award”-winning playwright Tarell Alvin McCraney stars Tony winner Phylicia Rashad. See website for schedule and pricing. Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772. centertheatregroup.org
An Intimate Evening with Josh Groban
Sept. 14. Internationally renowned singer, songwriter and actor Josh Groban headlines an evening celebration to kick off The Broad Stage’s 10th season. Complimentary pre-show reception available to all ticket holders; VIP tickets include post-show dinner under the stars and a meet-and-greet opportunity. Concert benefits The Broad Stage’s Arts Education and Community Program that supports 20,000+ people each year. 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $500. The Broad Stage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. thebroadstage.org
Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA
Opens Sept. 14. A collaborative artistic effort more than five years in the making, Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA is an ambitious exploration of Latin American and Latino art. The Getty leads the initiative that encompasses 70 cultural institutions and 65 art galleries across Southern California, which will host thematically linked exhibitions and programs. Don’t miss the opening launch party on September 14 at Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles. See website for complete guide. pacificstandardtime.org
The Red Shoes
Opens Sept. 15. Choreographer Matthew Bourne’s ballet adaptation of the beloved fairy tale and Academy Award-winning movie, set to the music of Hollywood composer Bernard Hermann, makes its U.S. premiere. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772. centertheatregroup.org
Tarfest
Sept. 16. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, food trucks, kids activities and more at the 15th annual edition of this fun cultural event. 2-10 p.m. Free. La Brea Tar Pits Park, 5801 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 323.899.1363. tarfest.com
Halloween Horror Nights
Sept. 15-Nov. 4. Immerse yourself in a living, breathing, three-dimensional world of terror at Universal Studios. This year’s edition features a new Jabbawockeez live show, three new scare zones and eight terrifying experiences based on popular films and TV shows such as Stanely Kubrick’s The Shining and FX’s American Horror Story: Roanoke. See website for hours and ticket options. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377. halloweenhorrornights.com
California Vegetarian Food Festival
Sept. 16-17. SoCal vegetarians and vegans unite for two days of plant-based food learning and cutting edge product demos. Other activities include meditation, a screening of the film Walk with Me narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch, vegan beer and wine, live music and food vendors galore. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., film screening 7-10 p.m. Tickets start at $25, under 10 free. Raleigh Studios in Hollywood, 5300 Melrose Ave., Hollywood. cavegfoodfest.com
Nautica Malibu Triathlon Presented by Equinox
Sept. 16-17. Athletes, philanthropists and celebrities are among those who turn out to swim, bike and run at this annual Zuma Beach event, all to benefit the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles’ pediatric-cancer research program. Races begin at 7 a.m. There’s also a Nautica Kids Run and Tot Trot. Check website for registration prices. 30050 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, 818.707.8866. nauticamalibutri.com
Saaztoberfest
Sept. 16-17. Angel City Brewery brings a splash of whimsy to the beer world with its latest year-round brew SaazBerry. Created with a magical blend of Saaz hops, raspberry, blueberry and elderberry, this bright violet ale will be celebrated with a sweet treat themed Beer Bazaar, music by Munich Boom-Steiners, SaazBerry beer cocktails and live mural painting. 21+. Noon-8 p.m. Free. 216 Alameda St., downtown. angelcitybrewery.com
Venice Art Crawl
Sept. 21. Celebrate the official last day of summer along the vibrant seaside community of Venice. Stroll through the neighborhood to experience pop-up galleries in studios, homes, parking lots, bars and more. See website for an interactive guide of all participants and locations. 6-10 p.m. Free. veniceartcrawl.com
Catalina Wine Mixer 2017
Sept. 22. Inspired by the hilarious “Catalina Wine Mixer” scene from Will Ferrell’s comedy classic Step Brothers, this jam-packed weekend at Descanso Beach Club takes on a life of its own. Expect live music, DJs, dancing, great food, fine wine, fancy cocktails and a special screening of Step Brothers at the historic Avalon Theatre. See website for full schedule and transportation details. visitcatalinaisland.com
Fourth Annual Celebration of Food and Wine at Terranea Resort
Sept. 22-23. Exchange the hustle and bustle of city life for a weekend of wining and dining along the Pacific. Celebratory events include an intimate champagne reception, refreshing breakfast on the beach, seminars from award-winning chefs and winemakers, farm-driven grand tasting dinner, live entertainment and more. Try your hand at mixology with a cocktail competition or indulge in naming the final winner. See website for pricing. Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.265.2836. terranea.com
22nd Annual Redondo Beach Lobster Festival
Sept. 22-24. Head down to South Bay for mouth-watering Maine lobster dishes, live music and stand-up paddle board lessons. Kids activities include face painting, balloon art and more. F 6-11 p.m.; Sa noon-11 p.m.; Su noon-8 p.m. See website for full schedule and pricing. Seaside Lagoon, 200 Portofino Way at the corner of Harbor Drive and Beryl Street. lobsterfestival.com
Cocktails in the City
Sept. 23. 30 of the best bars and bartenders across the city gather to celebrate L.A.’s cocktail culture. Sip on libations from Melrose Umbrella Company, Birds and Bees, Sassafras, Big Bar and more. A bar school, food and live music will also be on-site. Pre-dinner cocktail party 4:30-8:30 p.m.; after-dinner cocktail party 9 p.m.-1 a.m. See website for pricing. The Majestic Downtown, 650 S. Spring St., downtown. cocktailsinthecity.com
Museum Day Live!
Sept. 23. An annual celebration of curiosity hosted by the Smithsonian magazine. Download your ticket online which provides free admission for two people. L.A.-based participating museums include GRAMMY Museum at L.A. Live, Japanese American National Museum and Museum of Latin American Art, among others. Free. smithsonianmag.com
Outdoor Simulcast of ‘Carmen’
Sept. 23. The LA Opera, in partnership with Los Angeles County, is bringing their opening show outdoors for one night only. Carmen, starring Ana Maria Martinez and conducted by James Conlon, will be broadcast live in high-definition at the Santa Monica Pier and Exposition Park. 5 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show. Free, RSVP encouraged. Exposition Park, 700 Exposition Park Dr. L.A.; Santa Monica Pier, 200 Santa Monica Pier. laopera.org
Dino Fest
Sept. 23-24. Travel back in time with the second annual Dino Fest at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHMLA). Activitie include talks with world-renowned paleontologists, an interactive Dig Pit, tours of the Dinosaur Hall and more. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $12 adults; $9 students and seniors; $5 children; Museum members and children under 2 free. 900 Exposition Blvd., L.A. nhm.org
The Apollo Theater Celebrates Ella’s 100th Birthday
Sept. 24. Grammy-winning artist Patti Austin helms an all-star evening to celebrate Ella Fitzgerald’s centennial birthday. The Apollo first introduced Fitzgerald to the world in 1934 where she won Amateur Night at age 17. She went on to earn 13 Grammy Awards, the National Medal of Arts and collaborated with Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, among others. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Ford Theatres, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood. fordtheatres.org
Abbot Kinney Festival
Sept. 24. This festival, now in its 33rd year, spotlights the eclectic boutiques, artisan eateries and influential art galleries along the “Coolest Block in America.” Enjoy top food trucks and booths, kids’ rides and games, four music stages and three beer gardens. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, 310.396.3772. abbotkinney.org
Art Book Sale at MOCA
Sept. 28-Oct. 1. Find exhibition catalogues, monographs and rare books at The Museum of Contemporary Art’s weekend-long sale. Titles will be priced at $1, $5, $10. Th-Su 5 p.m.-midnight. Free. 250 S. Grand Ave, 213.621.1710. moca.org
Dark Harbor at Queen Mary
Sept. 28-Nov. 1. SoCal’s most haunted Halloween event returns this fall with more nights, monsters and mazes than ever before. Additions for 2017 include an all-new Feast maze, Ice Bar Experience and the Chef’s Feast Experience. Visit website for ticketing options. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach. queenmary.com
Melrose Rooftop Cinema
Through Sept. 28. West Hollywood’s modern Asian eating and drinking house, E.P.&L.P., takes the concept of dinner and a show to new heights with Melrose Rooftop Cinema. Playing weekly through October, the Melrose Rooftop Cinema—with a seating capacity of 200—will feature over two dozen cult classic movies and new releases. Highlights this month include The Princess Bride (Sept. 5), Ghostbusters (Sept. 13) and Wonder Woman (Sept. 25). Su-W 8:30-11 p.m. $15-$59. 603 La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, 310.855.9955. melroserooftopcinema.com
Rooftop Cinema Club
Through Sept. 30. The U.K.’s “Number One Outdoor Cinema Series” returns to the rooftop of the historic Montalban Theatre for its third season in L.A.. Enjoy street food and drinks while you take in views and watch classic (The Nice Guys), cult (Mean Girls) and contemporary (La La Land) flicks. The series recently expanded to the terrace at Level in the heart of downtown. See website for full lineup and schedule. Ages 18+; Level screenings 21+. 8 p.m. $19-$35. 615 Vine St., L.A.; 888 S. Olive St., downtown. rooftopcinemaclub.com
SPONSORED
City Highlights Tour at Skyspace LA
Continuing. Skyspace now offers a complimentary City Highlights tour with every general admission ticket. Fall in love with L.A. by learning more about the city’s history, pop culture, art, film and architecture. Daily tours last 35-40 minutes and depart on the hour beginning at 11 a.m. from the north-facing side of the 69th floor. 633 West Fifth St. #840, downtown, 213.894.9000. Tickets
Hamilton
Continuing. The national tour of the Broadway sensation has finally arrived in Los Angeles, bringing its brilliant raps about founding father Alexander Hamilton (played by Michael Luwoye) to the Pantages stage. Hollywood Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770. hollywoodpantages.com
Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Continuing. Universal Studios Hollywood’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter is already magical, but the immersive land’s new Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle show has cast a spell on the park. Multiple times nightly after sunset, muggles gather in Hogsmeade to hear the Sorting Hat narrate a spectacle that showcases the four houses of Hogwarts. Lights and projections of animals dance across the castle as a musical arrangement by John Williams fills the air. Grab a Butterbeer and prepare to be dazzled. 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, 800.864.8377. universalstudioshollywood.com
Abbot Kinney Festival photo by Venice Paparazzi. Getty Villa photo by Christina Wiese. Cuba Is / Leysis Quesada VeraCubans in the Arts photo courtesy of the organization. LACMA photo by Christina Wiese. Nautica Malibu Triathlon photo by Noel Vasquez/Getty Images for Nautica Malibu Triathlon.
