Summer in Los Angeles means sunny skies, days spent at the beach, and lots of free events! There’s always something going on in LA, even if you are on a tight budget. If you enjoy live music, you’re especially in luck. Here is a list of some of the city’s best summer concert series. ELC is very well-located; most of these are less than 30 minutes away by public transportation, and “Summer of Soul” at the Hammer is across the street!
If you’ve been to The Getty Museum, you are familiar with the amazing panoramic views of Los Angeles and the beautiful architecture it has to offer. It also has an impressive art collection–all for free! How much better could it get?
Well, in the summer, The Getty has two music programs for your enjoyment. Up-and-coming artists are invited to perform on an outdoor stage in the museum courtyard, and DJs play to open and close the night, making sure there is never a dull moment. They also have food and drinks available for purchase, and The Restaurant is open until 9 PM. The museum collections are also open later.
Friday Flights: June 26, July 24, August 28 from 6-9 PM
For more info, go to: http://www.getty.edu/museum/programs/performances/friday_flights.html
For a schedule of Saturdays off the 405, go to: http://www.getty.edu/museum/programs/performances/saturdays_405.html
The Santa Monica Pier has a lot to offer – from shopping, dining, attractions, and more. In the summer, you have one more reason to hang out at the pier! Starting July 9th, every Thursday from 7-10 PM, an artist has a small concert on the Santa Monica Pier, for free! You can watch from the pier and the nearby beer garden, or set a picnic up in the sand right below. This year’s performances include Cubanismo!, Real Estate, Ariel Pink and more!
Starting July 9th, Thursdays from 7-10 PM
For a full schedule and more info, go to: http://santamonicapier.org/twilightconcerts/
Described as a “part food event, part summer party,” Chinatown Summer Nights is one that you don’t wanna miss out on. It’s hosted by LA Radio Station KCRW, so you know the music is good and the party goes on till midnight! There are several stages set up throughout Chinatown, food and drink vendors, and traditional Chinese dance performances. Summer Nights caters to many tastes, even offering outdoor group cooking lessons! A Capuchin Monkey and his trainer stroll around the town and provide entertainment as well!
June 27, July 25 & August 22 from 5- Midnight
For more info, go to: http://chinatownsummernights.com/schedule/
At the Hammer’s Summer of Soul events, the museum galleries are open late and a few cash bars spring up throughout the museum. Because of its location, these events attract a young, college crowd, and KCRW DJs play a selection of soul music to keep the dancing going. Show up early for a drink during happy hour, and stay late for the dancing! This event is free.
July 9, 16, 23, & 30
Happy Hour at 6:30 PM
Music at 7:30 PM
For more info, go to: http://hammer.ucla.edu/summer-soul/
This is another free event hosted by KCRW, but unlike the others, you’ll need to RSVP in advance. Entry is granted on a first-come, first-served basis, so the earlier you arrive the better. Sound in Focus takes place at the Annenberg Space for Photography. This year’s live music acts include hip-hop legends De La Soul and indie rock band Cold War Kids. While the event is going on, the photography exhibits are open for viewing. Concert attendees are encouraged to bring their own picnic and relax on the lawn, but LA’s hottest food trucks will be selling yummy eats, and there will be several refreshment options and beer gardens.
Saturday, July 25, August 1, August 8, and August 15 starting at 5 PM
To RSVP and for more information, go to: http://soundinfocus.kcrw.com/
The purpose of this series is to “bring artists and audiences together by thoughtfully curating an array of music, dance, film, and spoken word.” Every event is a new experience, but you are guaranteed to have a great time. You can also bring your own food and drink! “We want you to have a great night with us, and grub and grog only help that, so we heartily encourage you to bring as much food and drink as you’re willing to carry.” Don’t miss out on this event!
For the schedule and more info, go to: http://www.grandperformances.org/index.php
