Memorial Day Weekend in Los Angeles: A Guide to the Best Activities and Events
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and there's no better place to kick off the season than in Los Angeles. With its perfect blend of cultural events, outdoor activities, and scenic spots, LA offers something for everyone. Whether you're a local or a visitor, here's a guide to making the most out of your Memorial Day weekend in the City of Angels.
Attend a Memorial Day Ceremony
Honor the true meaning of Memorial Day by attending a remembrance ceremony. The Los Angeles National Cemetery hosts a traditional flag-placing ceremony (May 27, 9:00 AM) and an annual event with speeches and music to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country (May 29, 10:00 AM). Alternatively, visit the Battleship USS Iowa Museum in San Pedro for their Memorial Day celebration, which often includes a ceremony, military vehicle displays, and live music.
Visit the L.A. County Fair
Make the trip to the Pomona Fairplex to experience all the L.A. County Fair has to offer. Concerts (WAR, TLC, Nelly, Distin Lynch, to name a few), fair food, carnival rides, shopping, games, and of course, farm animals! Hours are 11 AM to 11 PM from Thursday to Sunday and also open on Monday, which is the the closing day of the fair.
Buy Art at Fiesta Hermosa
Don't feel like trekking to Pomona? Head to Hermosa Beach! This arts festival has stalls and sidewalk vendors along Hermosa and Pier Avenues and live music on the beach. There is also a carnival behind the Hermosa Beach Community Center.
Camp the Lightning in a Bottle Music Festival
If you are in the mood for a drive, Bakersfield's Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area is a community campout experience and sustainability festival dedicated to equal parts music, food, art, yoga and wellness. Listen to acts like Skrillex, Labrinth, Lane 8, James Blake and M.I.A.. It's got a bit of a Coachella vibe that's difficult to describe--check out their website at libfestival.org
Attend the Topanga Days Country Fair
If you’re looking for a fun and quirky event, the Topanga Days Country Fair is a local favorite. Held in the bohemian enclave of Topanga Canyon, this festival features live music, artisan vendors, games, and a parade. It’s a great way to enjoy the community spirit and natural beauty of the area.
Experience Jazz at LACMA
Friday evenings in LACMA’s welcome plaza (just behind Urban Light), is one of the city's best free live music concerts. Seating available (come early) or bring your picnic gear for the lawn.
Relax in a Botanical Garden
For a peaceful escape, visit one of LA’s beautiful botanical gardens. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino feature expansive gardens, art galleries, and a rare book library. Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge offers serene landscapes, including a rose garden, Japanese garden, and oak forest.
Eat at Smorgasburg L.A.
Every Sunday you can find dozens of food vendors at this market at ROW DTLA, with a mix of much-loved pop-ups and future star chefs.
Los Angeles is brimming with activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're in the mood for relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, the city has something to offer. This Memorial Day weekend, take advantage of the diverse experiences that L.A. has to provide and create lasting memories in this vibrant city.