Los Angeles has ushered in September with a vibrant and diverse array of events, offering something for every resident and visitor. From iconic landmark celebrations and expansive book festivals to community block parties and artistic showcases, the city is buzzing withactivites that highlight its rich cultural tapestry.
Santa Monica Pier Celebrates 116 Years with a Star-Studded Benefit
The historic Santa Monica Pier marked its 116th anniversary with a special “A PIERfect Benefit” fundraiser on Saturday, September 6th. This inaugural event, held at the Merry Go-Round Building, aimed to support the Santa Monica Pier Corporation’s (SMPC) mission to keep the beloved landmark “magical, meaningful, and accessible for all.” The evening featured live performances, curated appetizers, signature cocktails, and a lively auction. Proceeds from the event will help fund the Pier’s ongoing public programming, with 10% of ticket sales donated to the Pali Strong Foundation to aid those affected by recent fires. The celebration also honored Judy Abdo and Larry Barber for their significant contributions to preserving the Pier.
A World of Stories at the LA Kids Book Festival
The 3rd Annual Los Angeles Kids Book Festival (LAKBF) took over West Hollywood Park on Sunday, September 7th, drawing families for a day dedicated to early childhood education, bilingualism, and multiculturalism. This free-to-the-public event, presented by the American Born Chinese Foundation, fostered a love for reading with nearly 100 children’s authors and illustrators, interactive storytelling sessions, live performances by acts like The BeatBuds and Syncopated Ladies, and a popular foam party finale. Attendees also enjoyed author and industry panels, a sensory-friendly chill zone, and various family-friendly activities, including food trucks and face painting.
Free Theatrical Performances Begin September
Theater enthusiasts have a treat this month as Coeurage Ensemble kicks off its series of free theatrical performances at Kings Road Park. [Initial context] These performances are scheduled to run over three weekends throughout September, offering accessible arts experiences to the community. [Initial context]
A Weekend Packed with Diverse Los Angeles Events
The weekend of September 6th alone was brimming with cultural happenings across Los Angeles. The Getty Center hosted “TRANSA—A Celebration,” a day-long festival of trans artistry featuring live performances, sound installations, and art inspired by the Red Hot Organization’s concept album. This free event required advance reservations and showcased a lineup of imaginative trans and nonbinary artists.
Meanwhile, Gloria Molina Grand Park in Downtown L.A. pulsed with energy during its “Homegrown Resilience” Block Party on September 6th. Curated in partnership with KCRW Summer Nights, the six-hour celebration featured L.A.-based DJs, interactive art, food trucks, and concluded with a spectacular drone show.
Art lovers flocked to Bergamot Station Arts Center in Santa Monica for its free, family-friendly open house on September 6th, which showcased new exhibitions, artist talks, and entertainment. In El Sereno, the Alhambra Avenue Block Party brought the community together with local businesses, food vendors, art-making activities, and a bouncy house. The evening also saw a playful “Prom Night” event at Benny Boy Brewing, complete with music, spiked punch, and photo opportunities.
Looking Ahead: More September Festivals and Activities
As September unfolds, Los Angeles continues to offer a rich calendar of events. The Hola México Film Festival runs through September 21st, showcasing Mexican cinema. Music lovers can catch KCRW Summer Nights at various venues, or enjoy free Jazz at LACMA every Friday. Family activites abound with events like Dino Fest at the Natural History Museum on September 14th, and the Burbank Fall Festival on September 13th. The month also features the 7th annual Los Angeles Libros Festival on September 13th, a bilingual celebration of books at Central Library. Later in the month, the Watts Towers Day of the Drum Festival + Jazz Festival (September 27-28) and LA Opera at the Beach (September 27) promise further cultural immersion.
With such a dynamic start to the month, Los Angeles is set for a September filled with enriching festivals and engaging community activites.
