So you’ve booked a flight to the City of Angels and you’re wondering what to do during your trip. Well, we’ve got you covered with our Guide to Can’t-Miss Summer Events in LA! The sleepless city is the ultimate playground when the sunny season rolls in and never runs out of exciting events and activities, from beach bashes to cultural festivals, movies, and music. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we’ve put together a list of some of the best summer things to do in LA. So, grab some sunscreen, put on those shades, and let’s dive into the best of LA’s summer scene!
US Open of Surfing
There is no better way to combine sports and surfing than by going to the Lexus US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach! First known as the West Coast Surfing Championship when it debuted in 1959, it later became known as the OP Pro, and eventually renamed to the US Open of Surfing. This historic annual event has grown to become the largest surfing competition in the world and has seen such famous surfers as Rob Machado and Kelly Slater cross the winner’s platform.
Outdoor Movies at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
While this might sound a bit spooky, trust us, this LA staple of summer events will only scare up fun times. Cinespia hosts outdoor movie screenings at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, and it’s as magical as it gets. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and watch classic films under the stars. The atmosphere is enchanting, and there’s often a DJ spinning tunes before the movie starts. It’s a unique experience that combines the charm of old Hollywood with the beauty of a summer night.
The LA Food Fest
Calling all foodies! The LA Food Fest is your ticket to culinary heaven. This festival brings together the city’s best food trucks, chefs, and restaurants for a day of delicious indulgence and community. From gourmet bites to quirky food creations, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Plus, there’s live music, entertainment, and a beer garden to keep the good vibes rolling. Come hungry, leave happy! And as they say on their website, “Don’t forget your stretchy pants”!
Hard Summer Music Festival
If you are a fan of electronic music, then you cannot miss the Hard Summer Music Festival. Known by diehard fans as “Hardfest”, this music event is in the same vein as other festivals like the extremely popular Electric Daisy Carnival. The festival premiered as a New Year’s Eve event in 2007 with such big names as 2 Live Crew and Steve Aoki, however as of 2010 it was rebranded as a summer event.
This festival is at the center of where electronica and live performances converge to become a supernova of light, color, and heart-thumping music. If this sounds like your jam, make sure to make the right choice and let us handle your transportation needs so that you can skip the hassle of driving, traffic jams, and parking.
Nisei Week Japanese Festival
California has a long and rich history of Asian heritage spanning over 150 years. The historic Nisei Week Japanese Festival in Little Tokyo celebrates Japanese heritage with traditional music, dance, food, and arts. Here you can dive into the rich culture of Japan where highlights include the Grand Parade, the Taiko Drum Festival, and the street fair with vendors selling everything from handcrafted goods to delicious Japanese snacks. It’s a wonderful way to experience a different culture and enjoy a vibrant community celebration.
KCON LA
K-pop fans, rejoice! KCON LA is the ultimate convention for Korean pop culture. This multi-day event features concerts, fan meet-and-greets, panels, and a marketplace filled with K-pop merchandise. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the Hallyu wave, KCON offers an immersive experience that showcases the best of Korean music, fashion, and culture.
Hollywood Bowl Summer Concerts
The Hollywood Bowl is one of LA’s most iconic venues, and its summer concert series is a must-attend. The Bowl hosts an eclectic mix of performances, from classical music by the LA Philharmonic to pop, rock, and jazz concerts. The setting is picturesque, the acoustics are fantastic, and the experience of watching live music under the open sky is unforgettable. Don’t forget to bring a picnic – it’s all part of the tradition!
Jazz at LACMA
For a more relaxed vibe, head to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) for their Jazz at LACMA series. These free concerts take place every Friday evening in the museum’s serene outdoor courtyard. It’s the perfect way to wind down the week with smooth jazz, good company, and a beautiful setting. While you’re there check out all of the Instagrammable places to take a selfie and even take in some art.
Explore LA’s Beaches
No summer in LA is complete without a trip to the beach. From the lively Venice Beach to the picturesque Malibu shores, whatever your style of adventure there’s a beach to suit everyone’s taste. Try surfing in Santa Monica, enjoy a bonfire at Dockweiler, or simply relax and soak up the sun at Manhattan Beach. Don’t forget to stay for the stunning sunsets!
Universal Studios Hollywood
If you could combine movies, music, food, family fun, and excitement all in one place, then that place would be Universal Studio Hollywood. Since it first opened its doors as a theme park in Southern California over 60 years ago, Universal Studios has been a summer destination for countless visitors from all over the globe. Its iconic Jaws ride, featuring Bruce the great white shark, has been a rite of passage for many fearless park visitors.
However, the theme park has grown to be so much more than just a movie studio backlot with an animatronic shark and parting Red Sea. While the park still offers its infamous studio tram tour, nowadays it has exciting rides and attractions like the Jurassic Park Ride and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Just outside the entrance to the park is Universal Citywalk Hollywood, offering every kind of dining you can imagine, as well as shopping, and entertainment. Make sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Universal Studios.
Conclusion
Los Angeles truly comes alive in the summer, offering a myriad of events and activities that cater to all tastes and interests. From music and food festivals to cultural celebrations and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t let LA traffic eat into your already precious time. By using any one of our transportation services, we can get you to your venue quickly, conveniently, and efficiently. And don’t be afraid to enjoy a few adult beverages — we’ll get you to and from wherever it is you’re going in the safest and most comfortable fashion. So whether it’s a private car, a small shuttle, or a bus for your large group, we’ve got you covered. Go ahead and mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to make unforgettable summer memories in the City of Angels!