Los Angeles and Southern California are set to buzz with a diverse array of activities and festivals from Friday, August 1st, to Sunday, August 3rd, 2025. This weekend promises something for everyone, from electrifying music and dance events to unique cultural celebrations and family-friendly gatherings.
Kicking Off the Weekend with Rhythms and Celebrations
Friday, August 1st, launches into a vibrant schedule of events. Downtown L.A.’s Grand Performances presents “She Speaks: The Last Word” featuring the acclaimed Yesika Salgado from 7 to 9 p.m. at Grand Performances. Simultaneously, KCRW Summer Nights takes over the California African American Museum, offering a lively dance party curated by DJ Linafornia and DJ Tyler Boudreaux. Attendees can also enjoy access to exhibitions, food trucks, and a beer garden, with festivities commencing at 7 p.m. For those looking to dance the night away, The Music Center’s Dance DTLA presents a Disco-themed event at Jerry Moss Plaza, running from 7 to 11 p.m.
Cat Conventions, River Revitalization, and Bolero Beats
This weekend also marks the highly anticipated return of CatCon to the Pasadena Convention Center for its tenth year. This beloved event, a celebration of cats and pop culture, has a heartwarming mission: to help over 200 kittens find forever homes. A portion of the ticket sales will directly support the Pasadena Humane Society, making it a purr-fectly philanthropic outing.
On Sunday, August 3rd, the Friends of the L.A. River (FoLAR) will host its third annual RiverFest at L.A. State Historic Park. This free, family-friendly festival is dedicated to the environment and the arts, featuring local bands and DJs, engaging art installations, interactive workshops, and educational booths focused on nature and climate awareness. Food trucks and various vendors will also be on hand to enhance the experience.
August 2nd is officially declared “Día del Bolero” in honor of the “Boleros De Noche” event at The Ford. This special occasion celebrates the rich heritage of Latin American bolero music, promising an evening of soulful melodies and romantic rhythms.
Diverse Cultural Experiences and Musical Spectacles
The Los Angeles cultural calendar is further enriched by a variety of other noteworthy events. CatCon continues its run, offering a unique blend of feline adoration and entertainment. For a taste of local flavor, the Avocado Fest at Angel City Brewery provides a delightful experience for avocado enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Negritude Festival at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes offers a platform to celebrate and explore Black culture and heritage.
Musical Headliners and K-Pop Extravaganza
Music lovers are in for a treat with several major performances scheduled. The Grand Performances series continues on Saturday with a concert headlined by the talented Adrian Quesada. For an epic theatrical and musical experience, the Hollywood Bowl presents “Jesus Christ Superstar,” featuring Cynthia Erivo as Jesus and Adam Lambert as Judas, a powerful rendition of the rock opera classic.
Adding to the weekend’s excitement, KCON LA 2025 will dominate the LA Convention Center and Crypto.com Arena from August 1st to 3rd. This premier Korean entertainment convention boasts an impressive lineup of performances by K-pop sensations such as NCT 127, MONSTA X, and ZEROBASEONE, among many others. Recognizing its significant cultural impact, the City of Los Angeles has officially designated August 1st as “KCON Day,” highlighting the global reach and popularity of Korean culture.
From bustling festivals and intimate performances to community-focused gatherings, this weekend in Los Angeles and Southern California is packed with opportunities to explore, engage, and enjoy a wide spectrum of activities and events.
