Los Angeles is gearing up for a packed weekend from August 22-24, 2025, offering a diverse array of activities for every taste. From large-scale festivals celebrating community and culture to intimate art walks and outdoor film screenings, the city is alive with options for Angelenos and visitors alike. As temperatures remain warm, the city presents a compelling mix of indoor and outdoor events, promising a memorable end to the week.
Community and Cultural Celebrations Take Center Stage
The spirit of community is palpable this weekend with several significant festivals drawing crowds across the city. Compton Fest, themed “Compton to the World,” returns to Charles R. Drew University on Saturday, August 23, celebrating local talent, entrepreneurship, and community wellness with live music, family activities, and vendor booths.
Culver City’s annual Fiesta La Ballona is set to captivate attendees at Veterans Memorial Park from Friday through Sunday. This long-standing summer festival boasts live performances, carnival rides, pool movie screenings, games, a beer and wine garden, and a vibrant vendor village.
The Pan African Arts Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) Summer ArtFest continues its run through Sunday at Baldwin Crenshaw Plaza, showcasing fine art, fashion, jewelry, and home goods from local, national, and international Black artists.
Art enthusiasts can explore the El Segundo Art Walk on Saturday, August 23, where forty local businesses open their doors for studio tours, complemented by late hours at the El Segundo Museum of Art, food trucks, and live music. For a different kind of cultural immersion, KCRW Summer Nights heads to Chinatown on Saturday, August 23, offering a lively atmosphere with music and community engagement.
Melodies Under the Stars and Rhythmic Gatherings
Music lovers have plenty to explore, starting with the highly anticipated Maestro of the Movies event at the Hollywood Bowl, running from August 22-24. The Los Angeles Philharmonic will perform iconic film scores by John Williams, creating magical evenings under the stars.
Jazz at LACMA continues its popular free Friday night series at the Smidt Welcome Plaza, offering a sophisticated soundtrack to the evening. For those seeking vibrant dance music, Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles presents Kinky and Los Abandoned on Saturday, August 23.
Culver City’s own Gardena Jazz Festival is scheduled for Sunday, August 24, at Rowley Park, featuring renowned artists like Robert Glasper and Avery Sunshine.
Cinematic Experiences and Artistic Explorations
Film buffs can head to the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetery for Cinespia’s outdoor cinema series, which features a screening of “Psycho” on Saturday, August 23. For a unique film experience with a view, the Mount Wilson Observatory hosts “Matinees on the Mountain” with early astronomical films on Saturday, August 23.
Art lovers will find numerous exhibitions to explore throughout the city, with highlights including the New Filmmakers L.A. festival showcasing innovative animation and short films, and various galleries presenting new works, such as those at Roberts Projects.
Culinary Delights and Unique Weekend Pursuits
The culinary scene is buzzing with the grand opening of Bap&Bird, a new Korean fried chicken spot, on Sunday, August 24, promising a fun and flavorful experience. Foodies can also head to Gelson’s Markets for their Hatch Chile Celebration on Saturday, August 23, or attend the PLUM FEST with a special plum menu and live German band on Sunday, August 24.
For family-friendly thrills, Monster Jam Freestyle Mania takes over Crypto.com Arena from August 22-24, featuring a spectacular fusion of monster trucks and freestyle motocross bikes.
Other weekend activities include the 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica for shopping and dining, the Getty Center’s new outdoor bar for sunset cocktails with a view, and various wellness activities like the ALIGN Yoga Experience and a New Moon Self-Care Sound Bath on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
This weekend in Los Angeles is a testament to the city’s dynamic cultural landscape, offering a rich tapestry of events and activities that cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
