Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that offers a plethora of exciting and unique activities for both locals and tourists. Here are some of the most intriguing things to do in LA, covering a range of interests from music and sports to art, outdoor adventures, cultural spots, and food experiences.
### This Week's Highlights
On October 19, 2024, you can experience the Grand Ave Arts: All Access event, where over a dozen institutions in the Bunker Hill area come together to offer free performances, exhibitions, and tours. This includes a singing workshop and instrument trials at the Colburn School, a sugar skull workshop at the Los Angeles Central Library, and LA Opera recitals at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Additionally, there will be a Day of the Dead celebration at Grand Park.
For music enthusiasts, October is a great time to catch some live performances. You can enjoy concerts by notable artists such as Imagine Dragons, Suki Waterhouse, Jeff Lynne's E.L.O., and David Gilmour. The city is also hosting the AFI Fest, which kicks off this month, featuring a wide array of films and related events.
### Halloween and Fall Festivities
As Halloween approaches, Los Angeles transforms into a spooky wonderland. The Natural History Museum's Boney Island experience is a must-visit, with its luminous, prehistoric decor, gourmet food trucks, and a nightly bar. This event runs from October 3 to 31, 2024.
The House of Spirits at Casa Vega offers a hauntingly elegant evening with themed cocktails, live entertainment, and interactive experiences inspired by Spanish folktales and the works of Francisco Goya. Another unique experience is the Vampire Circus at the Montalban Theater, which combines circus acts with spooky theatrics in an eerie cemetery setting.
### Cultural and Artistic Experiences
Los Angeles is rich in cultural and artistic offerings. The GRAMMY Museum is hosting a new exhibition on the Latin Grammys, while the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is exploring the Cyberpunk genre. The Getty Center has an exhibition on the science of light, making October a great time to explore these temporary museum exhibitions.
For a more immersive experience, check out the Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: The Afterlife Experience at Ovation Hollywood, which features recreated sets, live entertainment, and plenty of photo opportunities.
### Outdoor Adventures
Nature lovers can explore the beautiful waterfalls hidden around LA, making for a rewarding hike through the city's natural landscapes. Alternatively, you can visit the Grand Park for various events, including the Day of the Dead celebration mentioned earlier.
### Sports and Fitness
Sports fans can catch the USC Football team in action against Rutgers, or participate in fitness events like October's Very Own Bootcamp at the Self Made Training Facility in Long Beach.
### Food and Drink Experiences
LA is renowned for its diverse culinary scene. You can enjoy Oktoberfest celebrations at various locations such as Old World Huntington Beach, Wurstküche, or Big Bear, where you can sip from enormous steins and indulge in German cuisine.
For a unique dining experience, visit the Boney Island event at the Natural History Museum, which features gourmet food trucks. If you're looking for something sweet, consider the October Baking Class at The Pie Bar, where you can learn to make a Dutch Apple Pie.
### Local Hidden Gems
To find the perfect Halloween costume, explore the local Halloween shops and vintage stores scattered around the city. These stores offer a wide range of creative and unique costumes that you won't find in typical pop-up shops.
For a family-friendly outing, the Cirque du Soleil KOOZA show is a great option, offering a blend of circus acts and theatrical performances. Alternatively, you can attend the Amazing Grace Conservatory's October Fest "The Haunted Mansion" for a spooky yet entertaining evening.
In conclusion, Los Angeles in October is a city alive with vibrant events, unique attractions, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a fan of music, sports, art, or outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.