Ah, it’s finally the weekend! With so many epic activities in Los Angeles, finding something to do can be quite a task. If you need plans or things to do this weekend—May 16-18, 2025—we’ve got you covered. (With some bonuses!) These are the best things to do in Los Angeles this weekend! 👇
1. Satisfy all your sweet strawberry cravings at the California Strawberry Festival
Who doesn’t love strawberries? Now, you can celebrate all things related to sweet red fruit at the 37th annual California Strawberry Festival. Indulge in all things strawberry from chocolate dipped to beer infused. Expect booths, live music, contests, fair rides, and so much more! More info here.
🗓️ When: May 17-18, 2025
📍 Location: Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W Harbor Blvd in Ventura
2. Have family-friendly fun at Street Food Cinema
Returning to picturesque venues such as The Autry Museum and LA State Historic Park, Street Food Cinema (SFC) returns with another season of beloved films and entertainment suitable for all ages. This picnic-style series encourages guests to arrive early, settle on the grass, and bask in the sunshine. As dusk falls, the movies take center stage! With a variety of films and pre-movie activities, there’s a screening to delight every audience member.
3. A24 X Brain Dead Studios ‘Friendship’ Pop-Up Experience
Gather your friends this Friday, and head to the A24 and Brain Dead Studios “Ocean View Dining” a Friendship pop-up experience. This unique pop-up combines A24’s latest cult classic film, Friendship, with the street-cred cool clothing company, Brain Dead Studios. The pop-up starts at noon on Friday, May 16th and continues while supplies last. Get more information here!
📍 Where: BRAIN DEAD STUDIOS FAIRFAX (611 N Fairfax Ave Los Angeles, CA)
📆 When: Friday, May 16, 2025 starting at noon
4. A new CicLAvia edition is happening this weekend
There’s a new edition of CicLAvia is taking place this weekend – CicLAmini at Pico Union. CicLAmini is a smaller version of CicLAvia’s popular city-wide car-free festivals, but you can still expect all the cool street games, art, cultural activities, and local businesses joining in. It’s a day to explore the neighborhood, support local spots, and take part in activities designed for everyone. Get all the information here!
📅 When: Sunday, May 18, 2025. 10AM-3PM
📌 Location: Pico Union
5. Head to the movies for a new must-see film
From the period vampire horror hit Sinners to the extra-terrestrial English adaptation of Watch the Skies, the latest movie features are all the buzz right now. Personally, we can’t think of a better place to soak up the action than in a comfy reclining seat with a large popcorn and a crisp Coke. Check out the latest screenings here.
6. Celebrate Black documentary filmmakers at this mini film festival
This two-day mini film festival celebrating Black documentary filmmakers returns to Los Angeles this weekend only. DAY OF BLACK DOCS is “a celebration of documentaries that center the Black experience, both behind and in front of the camera.” Guests can enjoy Black documentaries, film screenings, panel discussions, and Q&As with filmmakers. You can get more information here!
🗓️ When: May 16 – 17, 2025
📍 Where: American Film Institute (2021 North Western Avenue Los Angeles, CA)
7. Gather up the whole family for fun at the L.A. County Fair
The LA County Fair is back at the Pomona Fairplex from May 2 to May 26, 2025. The fair is celebrating creativity with this year’s theme, “Art Unleashed.” Open Thursdays through Sundays and Memorial Day, the fair offers a vibrant mix of immersive art exhibits, carnival rides, live music, and diverse food options. Some of the highlights include hands-on art activities, a retro roller-skating rink, and a concert series featuring artists like The O’Jays, Chris Young, and Cheap Trick. It’s a perfect outing for families, foodies, and anyone looking to enjoy a classic SoCal tradition.
📆 When: May 2 – 26, 2025
8. Celebrate AAPI Month In Los Angeles
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, and Los Angeles is celebrating with a variety of events that highlight the rich cultural contributions of the AAPI community. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the diverse AAPI cultures that enrich Los Angeles every day. Get all the information here!
9. Take an hour ferry ride to the longest-running silent film festival in the world
The Catalina Museum for Art & History is proudly showcasing the 38th Annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase. This showcase is one of the world’s longest-standing tributes to silent cinema. This year’s event happens over two days, Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17, 2025 and offers rare film screenings, live music events, and expert commentary in two iconic Avalon venues. On Friday, Creature from the Black Lagoon will be shown, and on Saturday, you can see The Phantom of the Opera. Get all the information here!
🗓️ When: May 16-17, 2025
📍 Where:
- Catalina Museum for Art & History’s Ackerman Family Amphitheater (217 Metropole Ave, Avalon, CA 90704)
- Avalon Casino Theatre (1 Casino Way, Casino Building, Avalon, CA 90704)
10. Catch a flick from the 1970s at this special L.A. cinema
Buckle up and get ready to travel back in time, this local theater is bringing special screenings of ‘70s classics you won’t want to miss. To celebrate this beloved time in cinema, Netflix is hosting a special screening series titled “1975: Fifty Is the New Hollywood” at the city’s iconic and legendary Egyptian Theatre. Some of the films you’ll get to enjoy include Barry Lyndon, Jaws, Chinatown and Dog Day Afternoon, and The Godfather Part II. Screenings will take place throughout the month of May. Get all the info here!
📍 Where: Egyptian Theatre (6712 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028)
📆 When: Multiple dates in May
11. Soar to new heights with these livestream eagle cams
Everyone’s looking for a little more joy in your day, and these animal livestreams will do the trick! Big Bear’s viral baby eaglets are an internet sensation, and you can get the latest updates here. If live birdwatching is more up your alley, then here are all the best tips on eagle-watching in SoCal. Plus, there’s an adorable platypus cam and 12 other epic animal livestreams that you don’t want to miss!
12. Experience the future of experiential dining at The Gallery
The Gallery, a new entertainment venue, revolutionizes ‘dinner and a show’ in downtown L.A. this month. This interactive sensory journey is one of the best things to do in L.A. this weekend! It goes far beyond the traditional restaurant experience, guiding guests through a thrilling five-course meal inspired by the elements—Earth, Water, Air, Fire, and Aether. You can learn more about the experience here. Tickets are $200 for the 5-course dinner & show with a special 12% off promotion from Feb 28-March 22.
🍷All ages welcome, but 18+ recommended
🎟️ Get your tickets
📍Location: 330 W. Olympic Blvd Los Angeles, C.A. 90015
13. Enjoy fun and educational community events at The Huntington all month long
The month of May brings a flurry of activity to The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. There are so many activities on offer that everyone is guaranteed to find their passion. You can find the full schedule here. Here are just a few of their events on offer:
- Plein Air Watercolor Series
- Meet a Gardener: Cultivating Roses
- Reflective Writing and Intuitive Collage
- Culinary Workshop: Celebrating Ancestral Foodways
- Astronomy Lecture: The Messy Eating Habits of Black Holes
- Fiber Arts Month: Drop-In Crafts
📍 Where: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
📆 When: Multiple dates in May
14. Dr.Jart+ Korean Skin Mart Flagship Pop-Up
Step into the Dr.Jart+ Korean Skin Mart, where K-beauty meets the vibe of a convenience store in Seoul. Play games, win prizes, and score free samples. Plus, enjoy tasty Korean snacks and get a personalized skincare routine.
📍 Where: The Americana at Brand (889 Americana Way Glendale, CA)
📆 When: May 9 – 26 from 10 am to 9 pm
15. Wander through 20 acres of blooming lavender at 123 Farm
Celebrate the blooming of 123 Farm’s 20-acre lavender fields starting this May. Visitors can experience the fields illuminated by 100,000 lights during evening hours, creating a stunning backdrop for sunset photos and nightly live music performances.
📍 Where: 123 Farm, 10600 Highland Springs Ave, Beaumont, CA 92223
📆 When: May 2 – July 20, 2025
16. Experience an enchanting Candlelight Concert at an exquisite L.A. venue
Experience an Enchanting Candlelight Concert at an exquisite L.A. venue. This dreamy Candlelight concert series is ever-evolving and never ceases to dazzle audiences. This spring, you’ll find incredible performances happening at stunning locations around the city, bathed in flickering candlelight. From Prince to Hans Zimmer, you’ll get to listen to top talent performing curated pieces across a range of genres.
🎟️ Tickets: See Candlelight’s upcoming schedule and get tickets here
17. Watch a movie in theaters with the whole family
Sometimes you just need to sit in a dark theatre and chow down on popcorn. While Netflix has great movies, going to a cinema is a special and fun outing. Here are the must-see movies you need to catch in L.A. theaters this month.
18. It’s gonna be May… get ready for a flower-filled month of fun!
We’re in the heart of spring so it’s the best weather to explore the great outdoors before the relentless summer heat is upon us. From frolicking in flowers to sky-high concerts, here are some of the most wonderful things to fill your calendar with this May in Los Angeles. Get the full list here!
19. Give, volunteer, and help those affected by the L.A. wildfires
The devastating L.A. wildfires have affected all of us, but of course some more than others. Find out more here on how you can help the City of Los Angeles and all those directly impacted during the wildfires. From donating to the LAFD to supporting mutual aid groups, there is so much our local community can do to help each other recover. Stay strong, Angelenos. 💚
20. Find ways to relax and unwind this week
It’s been a rough month for all of us here in L.A., and it’s important to find ways to unwind and relax even if only for a moment. Recharging your batteries is so important not only for you, but also for your family and entire community. As they say, put on your own oxygen mask before helping others put on theirs. Take care of yourselves, Angelenos. 💚
21. Free Jazz Nights Are Back At LACMA
Jazz at LACMA is back for the 2025 season. There are free outdoor concerts every Friday at 6 p.m. from May through November. Held at the Smidt Welcome Plaza behind the iconic Urban Light installation, these performances feature some of L.A.’s finest jazz musicians. The concerts are open to the public with no tickets or reservations required, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
📍 Where: LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
📆 When: Fridays at 6 p.m.
💲Price: Free
22. Watch it all play out on the ice at a Kings game
Whether you’re a sports fan or not, the buzz of a full crowd in the City of Champions cannot be missed. It’s fall after all, which means catching a Kings game is a must! Go Kings, Go — check out the 2025 Los Angeles Kings schedule here.
📍Location: Crypto Arena, 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
23. Catch the Lakers in action at Crypto.com Arena
Los Angeles, keep up with the Lakers through the end of their 2024-2025 season as they take the court at Crypto.com Arena! With LeBron James leading the charge, this season’s matchups are delivering high-intensity action. Don’t miss your chance to witness this star-studded team in action.
📍Location: 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
24. Check out these free things to do around Los Angeles
The best things in life are free — and Los Angeles is home to many of them. Whether you’re a frugal wanderer or just like to save a few bucks each week, here’s our list of the best free things to do in Los Angeles.
25. Embark on a weekend getaway to Catalina Island
There are so many beautiful places within a a 3-hour drive from Los Angeles, and Catalina is one of those magic spots. From beaches to enchanted lakes, there are endless spots you can visit by car in the span of two days! Find out more here.
26. Get your read on at one of the West Hollywood Library
Escape the chaos and dive into a world of tranquility at the West Hollywood Library. This weekend in Los Angeles is the perfect excuse to unwind, explore, and let your imagination run wild with a good book. Get the full list of the best libraries around Los Angeles here.
📍Location: 625 N San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
27. Tour the iconic Warner Bros. studios
A visit to the iconic Warner Bros., movie studio, is a must for any Angelino, tourist or movie buff. The city not only hosts that studio but also many other big names like Universal, and Paramount. All of them offer a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood magic. You can explore movie sets, soundstages, and even meet the stars of your favorite films. These tours let you step into the heart of the entertainment industry and experience the world where blockbuster movies are made.
📍Location: 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505
Edited by Sofía Delpueche and Jamie Ferrell