As the calendar turns to September, Los Angeles shakes off the peak of summer heat and welcomes a month brimming with a rich variety of activities, events, and festivals. This transitional period offers Angelenos and visitors alike a chance to experience the city’s dynamic cultural landscape, from intimate music performances and grand concerts to vibrant community gatherings and expansive art showcases. September in Los Angeles is truly a time to explore.
Melodies Under the Stars: A Soundtrack for September
Music lovers will find plenty to celebrate this September across Los Angeles. The month kicks off with significant concert dates, including the highly anticipated performance by the Jonas Brothers on September 6th. Other major musical acts gracing stages include Cage the Elephant on September 5th and Oasis for a two-night engagement on September 6th and 7th. The soulful sounds of Raphael Saadiq will fill the air on September 10th, while contemporary artist Benson Boone is set to close out the month on September 30th. For those who appreciate orchestral arrangements, “Stardew Valley – Symphony of Seasons” offers a unique blend of gaming nostalgia and live music on September 13th and 14th, and the iconic band Chicago is scheduled for a performance at the Hollywood Bowl on September 13th.
Ongoing music series continue to draw crowds, with KCRW Summer Nights hosting events on September 5th, 6th, 13th, and 20th at various iconic locations, offering free musical experiences. Every Friday throughout September, Jazz at LACMA provides a beloved weekly concert series on the Smidt Welcome Plaza, a perfect way to enjoy an evening under the stars. Additionally, the magic of “La La Land” will be brought to life with a special concert screening at L.A. State Historic Park.
Cultural Celebrations and Artistic Flair Across the City
September in Los Angeles is a prime time for cultural immersion and artistic exploration. The Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Summer Block Party on September 6th promises a lively community celebration. For film enthusiasts, the Hola México Film Festival typically runs through mid-September, offering a deep dive into Mexican cinema. Art aficionados can mark their calendars for the return of the Bergamot Station Open House on September 6th, showcasing contemporary art spaces. The Pasadena Art Walk, scheduled for September 20th and 21st, transforms the Playhouse District into an open-air gallery, celebrating handmade artistry with over 180 vendors.
The city also embraces its diverse heritage through various festivals. The LA Chinatown Hungry Ghost Festival on September 7th offers a blend of traditional arts and contemporary performances. For those seeking a unique experience, the Pacific Opera Project presents an immersive production of “Pagliacci” from September 5th to 14th at Heritage Square Museum, featuring a live orchestra. Wine tasting events at Barnsdall Park continue every Friday through September 26th, providing delightful evenings with curated wine selections and scenic views.
Family Fun and Educational Pursuits
Families will find a wealth of engaging activities throughout September. The Los Angeles Kids Book Festival, held on September 7th, celebrates literacy with bilingual storytelling, performances, and workshops. The Bob Baker Marionette Theater kicks off its Hallowe’en Spooktacular series on September 6th, offering magical puppet shows for all ages. The Natural History Museum is set to host its popular Dino Fest, providing an exciting opportunity for young paleontologists to get up close with prehistoric wonders. Furthermore, Los Angeles Union Station will host the Train Festival 2025 on September 20th and 21st, an all-ages celebration of the region’s rail heritage with vintage train cars and model exhibits.
Weekend Escapes and Major Festivals
As the month progresses, larger festivals offer weekend-long entertainment. The Ohana Festival and the Same Same But Different Music Festival are slated for September 26th-28th in Dana Point and Lake Perris, respectively, promising diverse musical lineups and festival experiences. For electronic music fans, Nocturnal Wonderland takes over Glen Helen Regional Park on September 13th and 14th. The culinary scene shines with the Family Style Food Festival on September 13th, showcasing acclaimed chefs and restaurants. Pop culture enthusiasts have L.A. Comic Con from September 26th to 28th, a massive gathering celebrating all facets of comic, gaming, and pop culture, complete with celebrity appearances and vibrant cosplay.
This September, Los Angeles invites everyone to dive into its extensive calendar of events, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to discover across the vast urban landscape.
