Summer may be winding down, but L.A’s event calendar isn’t slowing down just yet. There are still plenty of outdoor festivals, concerts, food events and neighborhood celebrations popping up across the region as August comes to a close. And in Culver City, one of the city’s biggest annual gatherings is preparing to take over the park for another weekend.
Fiesta La Ballona returns to Veterans Memorial Park from August 28 through August 30, bringing three days of live music, carnival rides, food, vendors and family-friendly activities. This year’s edition is an especially notable one, too: the beloved Culver City celebration is marking its 75th anniversary.
What is Fiesta La Ballona?
If you’re new to the event, Fiesta La Ballona is essentially Culver City’s big end-of-summer party. The celebration dates back to 1951, when it began as a weeklong event celebrating the city’s heritage. Seventy-five years later, it has become a three-day community festival combining the feel of a local fair with live entertainment, food, shopping and plenty of activities.
The festival takes over Veterans Memorial Park, giving visitors plenty of space to wander between attractions. Admission to the festival grounds is free, while carnival rides, food and drinks are available for an additional cost. The city says this year’s anniversary edition will also be larger, with an expanded footprint and a second entertainment stage added to the event.
What to Expect at Fiesta La Ballona 2026
Music will be one of the biggest draws. Performances are scheduled throughout all three days, with a lineup that moves across different styles and sounds. Friday includes The Urban Renewal Project, while Saturday brings acts including Angel City Chorale, Masanga Marimba, Cliff Beach and Black Crystal Wolf Kids. Sunday’s lineup includes Ryoji and Friends, Upstream, Alligator Beach and Los Calicubanos.
Then there is the carnival. Rides and games will be running throughout the weekend, making this an easy event to turn into a family outing. Unlimited ride wristbands are available in advance, while visitors who only want to enjoy the festival atmosphere can simply attend for free. Food will also be a major part of the experience, alongside craft and retail vendors, community organizations, nonprofit booths and a beer and wine garden.
Key details
📅 Dates: August 28–30, 2026
📍 Location: Veterans Memorial Park, 4117 Overland Ave., Culver City
🎟️ Admission: Free🕐 Friday: 4:30 p.m.–10 p.m.
🕐 Saturday: Noon–10 p.m.
🕐 Sunday: Noon–8 p.m.
