Things are heating up this month, both literally and figuratively, as we’re in the peak of summer. So to help you cope with the soaring temperatures while ensuring you make the most of the summer, we’ve curated a list of incredible happenings to fill your calendar with. Whether it’s a trip out of townor a free outdoor concert, here are all the best things you can do this August in L.A. below!
1. Visit museums & galleries for free
Get your cultural fix at one of these world-class galleries and museums in L.A. You can marvel at masterpieces from around the world from various decades or take in poignant contemporary works from the voices of our time, and you can do it all for free every day of the week.
2. Take in an enchanting Candlelight Concert at a gorgeous venue in Los Angeles
The wildly popular Candlelight Concerts have never ceased to captivate audiences across the globe. The series brings you talented musicians who perform live shows in beautiful settings, all bathed in Candlelight.
Make room in your schedule to enjoy one of the best Los Angeles August events, featuring live classical music versions of incredible artists from Bad Bunny to Whitney Houston.
- Saturday, August 2, 2025 – Candlelight Downtown LA: Featuring Mozart, Bach, and Timeless Composers
- Saturday, August 2, 2025 – Candlelight Downtown LA: Tribute to Drake
- Sunday, August 3, 2025 – Candlelight Burbank: Tribute to Adele
- Sunday, August 3, 2025 – Candlelight Burbank: Tribute to Luis Miguel
- Friday, August 8, 2025 – Candlelight Koreatown: Neo-Soul and Hip-Hop Favorites
- Saturday, August 9, 2025 – Candlelight Koreatown: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
- Friday, August 15, 2025 – Candlelight Downtown LA: Best of Joe Hisaishi
- Thursday, August 21, 2025 – Candlelight Long Beach: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More
- Thursday, August 28, 2025 – Candlelight Downtown LA: The Best of Frank Sinatra & Nat King Cole
- Friday, August 29, 2025 – Candlelight Downtown LA: A Tribute to Whitney Houston
- Friday, August 29, 2025 – Candlelight Downtown LA: Tribute to Lauryn Hill
3. Sip on avocado beer at Avocado Fest
Avocado Fest at Angel City Brewery returns for its 13th annual celebration! Join them on Sunday, August 3 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. as they showcase their Avocado Ale — a crisp and refreshing Kölsch-style brew that’s perfect for summer. This year, they’re also excited to offer a double release featuring both their Classic Avocado Ale and Guavocado Ale. Sample both on tap or take home a 4-pack of each for later enjoyment! It’s free to the public. Get more info here!
When: Sunday, August 3, 2025
đź“ŤLocation: 216 Alameda Street Los Angeles, CA 90012
4. Pet your worries away at the world’s biggest CatCon
CatCon is back for its 10th anniversary! CatCon is the world’s largest cat-focused pop culture event, uniting a global community of cat lovers. It’s the purr-fect event for cat lovers looking to score a feline-inspired pop culture item or find their future furry companion. Since 2015, this two-day immersive experience has entertained and educated thousands with the latest products and ideas for cats and their humans. Get all the info here on the coolest event in L.A.!
đź“… When:Â August 2-3, 2025. 10 AM-5 PM
đź“Ť Location:Â Pasadena Convention Center (300 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101)
5. Enter another realm at The Obscure
Embark on a mystical adventure into The Obscure, a unique distillery and cocktail bar where spirits and premium liquors blend in the dimly lit ambiance. Guided by candlelight, guests will journey through a multi-sensory experience steeped in history, myth, and mystery. Every cocktail and spirit narrates a compelling tale, whisking you away with each sip into forgotten narratives and untold myths. The Obscure offers an unmatched cocktail-tasting journey, brimming with delightful surprises for the inquisitive spirit.
Tickets: Get your tickets to The Obscure here!
When: Now through August 2025
đź“ŤLocation: The Obscure, 1356 Palmetto Street, Los Angeles, CA
6. Vibe out at HARD Summer music festival
HARD Summer 2025 is a massive two-day music festival taking place August 2–3 at Hollywood Park in L.A. HARD Summer will feature top-tier artists like Dom Dolla, Kaytranada, Gesaffelstein, Busta Rhymes, and Barry Can’t Swim. Blending house, techno, bass, and hip-hop across multiple stages, it’s one of the West Coast’s most anticipated summer electronic events. Find out more here!
đź“… When:Â August 2-3, 2025
đź“Ť Location: Hollywood Park next to SoFi Stadium
7. Catch a concert with your favorite artists around Los Angeles
Our beloved city is considered an essential destination for the world’s most eagerly awaited concert tours and music festivals. Check out all the best concerts happening in L.A. this August!
8. Enjoy KCRW’s beloved Summer Nights around our city with L.A.’s hottest DJs
Finally, KCRW Summer Nights are back! Angelenos get to dance the warm nights away with some of KCRW’s best DJs and musical guests at our favorite L.A. locations like The Hammer Museum, Descanso Gardens, Chinatown, MOCA, and more! Check out the KCRW Summer Nights schedule here.
9. Discover Cosm, the L.A. venue with an 87-foot 8K LED dome
Cosm Los Angeles invites you to experience immersive storytelling through cutting-edge technology and shared reality. Located in Inglewood’s Hollywood Park, Cosm features a massive dome for a display that transports guests into a world of shared reality experiences, from cinematic experiences such as The Matrix and “O” by Cirque du Soleil to sports events like soccer and UFC fights! Cosm is offering special pricing for August and a group promo for 4+ people for their Cirque du Soleil show, so now’s the perfect time to get your tickets. Snag yours here!
đź“ŤWhere: Hollywood Park, 1201 S. District Drive, Inglewood, CA 90305
10. Join the community at RiverFest
Friends of the Los Angeles River (FoLAR) is presenting their 4th annual River Fest. It’s a free outdoor festival focused on environmental arts and community, honoring the culture, history, and individuals who influence the L.A. River. It will feature a variety of local artists with thrilling live performances, a stunning visual art gallery and a bustling marketplace. Plus, they’ll have new interactive eco-activities for the whole family and delicious food from some of L.A.’s best food trucks. Find more info here.
When: August 3, 2025 from 2 – 8 pm
đź“ŤLocation: LA State Historic Park | 1245 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
11. Enjoy the warm weather with a free outdoor concert
It’s no secret that August is warm, so why not make the most of it by stepping outside? Outdoor concerts have returned to Los Angelesl, and we’ve compiled a list of the city’s top free events, from the energetic KCRW Summer Nights series to the captivating Jazz at LACMA sessions. Whether you’re into dynamic DJ sets or live band performances, these concerts provide the perfect chance to enjoy music in the open air at no cost. Gather your friends and check out our list of free outdoor concerts here!
12. Sip on craft cocktails and indulge in delicious eats at one of these lush rooftops around L.A.
Elevate your cocktail hour with a lush, plant-filled rooftop bar. It makes for a perfect tropical hideaway without leaving the city limits. Head up to one of these sky-high sanctuaries and watch the sunset over the L.A. skyline while sipping on mouthwatering cocktails and nibbling on delicious snacks. Find our favorite rooftop bars here.
13. Pack a picnic and head out to one of these gorgeous parks in Los Angeles
The best things in life are free… and romantic. A valid criticism of our city is that we don’t have enough parks. While this statement does hold true to an extent, the more you search, the more you’ll find that L.A. does have hidden pockets of greenery waiting to host you. No need to go search for yourself, because we found best parks in Los Angelesfor picnicking, reading, romantic dates, hanging out with friends, and more.
14. Cool off without heading to the beach at one of these swimming spots
SoCal is home to some breathtaking beachside scenery, but in the height of summer, you’re likely to see more bronzed bodies than sand. So, taking a little hike through incredible local landscapes to these little swimming havens might be a good alternative.
15. Go skating around the city
The August heat can be scorching, but for those staying in the city during this time who love the outdoors and soaking up some vitamin D, there’s no better plan than exploring the city on roller skates.
Firstly, it’s free! You just need your pair of inlines (or quads).. And secondly, it’s a great opportunity to get some exercise and discover new corners of Los Angeles. If you’re looking for things to do in L.A. in August, this is a perfect option. Check out the best spots to roller skate around L.A. here!
16. Indulge in a frozen sugar rush in these ice cream shops
If you have a sweet tooth and are looking to beat the heat, the answer to the question “what to do in L.A. in August” is simple: have an ice cream feast! Los Angeles boasts some of the best chains around, offering options for every palate, including vegan ice creams that will make your taste buds tremble with delight. You can even grab a frozen sweet treat at Smorgasburg LA’s Ice Cream Alley. Check out the best ice cream in L.A. here!
17. Take a quick getaway from the city
Got a few days off during the hottest month of summer? Then one of the best things to do in Los Angeles in August for you would be exploring nearby cities. From islands to deserts, and coastal towns offering the best sunsets and incredible beaches for surfing, taking a getaway to escape the traffic and stress is always a good idea. Check out local getaways from L.A. here!
18. Discover one of the many hidden beaches around L.A.
Going to the beach in August is a no-brainer and the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about things to do in Los Angeles this time of year. However, getting to the beach often means getting stuck in traffic only to arrive at a crowded spot. If you prefer more privacy, then we recommend exploring some of the secluded beaches around L.A. that will make you feel almost like a millionaire with your own private retreat.
19. Discover exclusive artist conversations and performances at the GRAMMY Museum
The public programs series at the GRAMMY Museum is truly a gem in Los Angeles. They offer an interactive extension of the Museum’s exhibits, films, and artifacts. Held in the intimate 200-person Clive Davis Theater and 300 seat Ray Charles Rooftop Terrace, their stages have hosted both legendary and emerging artists for exclusive conversations, performances, panels, film screenings, and other engaging events. Check out the August schedule here!
20. Spooky season arrives early at Disneyland
If you’re a Halloween fiend, July may not be too soon to start thinking about which spooky L.A. Halloween celebrations lie just around the corner because, incredibly, Disneyland Resort is already gearing up for Halloween Time starting this August. Halloween Time begins on August 22nd and lasts all the way through Halloween. This spooktacular event features dozens of signature decorations including ambient orange lighting, bunting, leaves, and thousands of pumpkins. Get the full scoop here!
21. Get ready to jam like the 2000s at the biggest free R&B concert
Jam out like it’s 2005 all over again at the biggest free R&B concert in L.A.! On Saturday, August 2 from 3:00 to 11:30 pm, Hopeless Hearts free outdoor concert series will take over Pershing Square in Downtown L.A. to bring you the chillest 2000s R&B lineup. Break out your boots-with-the-fur and re-live your glory years this August. Get the full 411 here!
🗓️ When: August 2, 2025, from 3:00 to 11:30 pm
 Where: Pershing Square (532 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90013)
22. Catch the last days of these rare and compelling photography exhibits at the Santa Monica Art Museum
Fans of both Bowie and photography have a chance for a rare treat this summer. A Day with David Bowie showcases rare, intimate portraits by Christine de Grancy, while Spectacle features 60 stunning large-scale images from National Geographic. Both exhibitions at the Santa Monica Art Museum have been extended through August, giving you plenty of time to explore two unforgettable visual journeys, from the legendary musician’s world to the breathtaking wonders of nature.
📆 When: Now through August 31, 2025
đź“Ť Where: Santa Monica Art Museum (1219 3rd Street Promenade Santa Monica, CA 90401)
23. Grab a limited-edition Demon Slayer x Dodger Cap at Demon Slayer night at Dodger StadiumÂ
The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced a special themed anime night in collaboration with the beloved anime franchise Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Grab a rare, co-branded, limited-edition Dodgers x Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle hat at their home game against the San Diego Padres on Friday, August 15. Learn more here!
đź“ŤÂ Where:Â Dodger Stadium
📆 When: Friday, August 15, 2025
24. Compton Fest, the “Best Community Event” is back!
Compton Fest 2025 is set to return with its signature vibe of community pride and cultural celebration. With the theme “Compton to the World,” this year’s event continues its tradition of showcasing local talent, empowering entrepreneurs, and providing vital resources across civic engagement, economic development, and community wellness. Expect an inspiring lineup of live music, family activities, panel discussions, vendor booths, and resource sessions. It’s an inclusive celebration designed to elevate Compton’s stories.
đź“Ť Where: Charles R. Drew University (1731 E. 120th Street Los Angeles, CA 90059)
📆 When: Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 12 pm-6 pm
25. Get prepared to be pumped up at this fitness festival in Huntington Beach
TYR Wodapalooza (WZA) is coming back to the California from Sept. 19th-21st, 2025, and tickets were just released! This outdoor athletic extravaganza has so much to do, and it’s returning to Huntington Beach. The foundation of Wodapalooza is its fitness competition which invites all backgrounds and levels to compete. Get all the info on WZA here!
📆 When: September 19-21, 2025Â
đź“Ť Where: Huntington Beach Pier (103 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, 92648)
26. You can try viral Pop-Tarts ice cream sandwich flavors at this L.A. pop-up
The beloved brand, Pop-Tarts, is teaming up with cult-favorite culinary collective Chain to celebrate National Ice Cream Sandwich Day on August 2 with a one-of-a-kind dessert drop you don’t want to miss. For one day only, the Pop-Tarts Ice Cream Sandwiches by Chain pop-up is chillin’ in Los Angeles. They’re offering two brand-new, boundary-pushing frozen sweet treat creations inspired by internet-famous flavors, Strawberry Matcha and Dubai Chocolate. Learn more here about how to sample these viral flavors!
📆 When: Saturday, August 2, 2025
đź“ŤÂ Where:Â To-be-announced secret L.A. location!
27. Grab a “Meal of Misfortune” at this Wendy’s x Wednesday pop-up event
There’s nothing happy about these “Meals of Misfortune” designed by Wednesday Addams popping up at one select Wendy’s location in L.A. for one day only. Wednesday Addams takes control of Wendy’s for a darkly delicious drive-thru takeover in L.A. on Thursday, July 31.Learn more about these spooky sauces and “Rest in 10-Piece” nuggets here!
📆 When: Thursday, July 31 from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Wendy’s (12138 Imperial Hwy., Norwalk, CA 90650)
28. Catch the Perseid Meteor Shower this month
The most anticipated celestial event for astronomy lovers and stargazers returns this summer to put on a one-of-a-kind show. The Perseids are back! This dazzling meteor shower, known for its intensity and high visibility, is set to take over the night skies this month. It’s a good idea to schedule your stargazing session for late July or early August for the best visibility. Learn more here!
29. You gotta catch the Pokémon Center pop-up
Ahead of the 2025 Pokémon World Championships this August, fans can check out a one-of-a-kind pop-up event featuring photo ops with Pikachu and friends, plus special side activities. Exclusive merch will also be available, including 2025 World plushies of Pikachu, Jigglypuff, Machamp, and Fennekin. The Pokémon Center pop-up at the 2025 Pokémon World Championships will open to the public on Wednesday, August 14, 2025 and run through Sunday, August 17, 2025. Find out how to make reservations here!
đź“ŤWhere: Anaheim Convention Center, 800 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92802
📅 When: August 13 – 17
30. Get fully immersed at Splash House in Palm Springs over two incredible weekends
This August, Splash House returns to Palm Springs for two weekends of sun-soaked pool parties, surprise DJ sets, and late-night shows. Festivalgoers can hop between iconic hotels like Renaissance, Margaritaville, and Saguaro, where artists like Diplo, Sofi Tukker, and Disclosure don’t just perform — they party. Then, guests can keep the vibes going at a surreal, open-air afterparty at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Offstage, guests can explore local spots like drag brunches at Oscar’s, next-gen spas, sound bath meditations, and vibrant nightlife at Reforma. Get the full lineup and ticket info here!
đź“ŤWhere: Three resorts in Palm Springs, CA
đź“… When: August 8-10 and 15-17
31. Snuggle up with a good ‘Book And Blanket’ today at this free community event in the park
Check out the latest Community Engagement program – Books and Blankets! Bring a friend and spend a chill afternoon at Los Angeles State Historic Park. Bring a friend and unwind with a relaxing afternoon at Los Angeles State Historic Park on Thursday, August 7th from 5–7 PM. Head to the south end of the park for a laid-back gathering filled with books, music, and community spirit. Attendees are encouraged to bring their favorite books or small community resources to trade, share, or donate to the new free book cart. Hosted alongside the Farmers Market, Books and Blankets is a free bi-weekly event taking place every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month.
đź“ŤWhere: Los Angeles State Historic Park
📅 When: Thursday, August 7th from 5–7 PM
32. Echo Park Rising returns to L.A.!
The beloved Eastside festival unites artists and creatives for a one-of-a-kind celebration brimming with community spirit. Echo Park Rising fills the neighborhood with music, art, and good vibes. And this year marks its 15th anniversary! Spanning an impressive range of venues, from retail shops and cozy patios to bustling restaurants and lively parking lots, the event transforms the area into a vibrant, open-air street festival. Learn more here!
📆 When: Saturday, August 16. Free and for all ages.
33. A labubu rave is taking over L.A. with EDM beats
Inspired by the sounds of legends like Tiësto and Sara Landry, this colorful Labubu-themed party is set to shake up the city. You’ll hear pulse-pounding sets inspired by heavy hitters like Tiësto, John Summit, Dom Dolla, SLANDER, Eli Brown, Sara Landry, Chris Lake, and more. There will be exclusive Labubu giveaways, live DJs keeping the energy up till late, and food and drinks available to fuel your night. And the best part? Admission is free before 10:30PM for guests 18+, before 11PM for those 21+! Learn more here!
📆 When: Friday, August 29 from 10 PM-2 AM
đź“Ť Location:Â 4067 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019
34. Speakeasy-inspired Korean fried chicken spot grand opening event with tattoos and Labubus
Bap & Bird is opening this August with a big event that promises a fun, welcoming, and truly wholesome experience. This new speak-easy inspired fried chicken spot boasts both Korean and Japanese flavors. And its grand opening promises to be a delicious event, with tattoos for Labubus included! Get the full deets here!
📆 When: Sunday, August 24 from 12 PM-4 PM
đź“Ť Location:Â 8320 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
35. A Vietnamese street food pop-up is headed to L.A. for 12 days only
Crustacean Beverly Hills is celebrating the 50-year legacy of Chef Helene An with the return of Little C, a pop-up lunch series described as intimate and deeply personal. The menu includes iconic Vietnamese dishes with a twist, including Gui Cuon rolls of the day, Ahn Nhau bites, a Goi Salad, and filet mignon pho with a broth that’s been simmering for 24 hours. The pop-up is available only for lunch service. Learn more here about all the delicious things being served up!
đź“ŤWhere: Crustacean Beverly Hills, 468 N Bedford Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
📅 When: August 12–24, 12-2:30 pm
36. Grab a scoop of the best gelato in the U.S. at Gelato Festival World Masters event
The Gelato Festival World Masters is headed right here to Los Angeles! Ten competing artisans from around the U.S., who have won their own respective Gelato Masters events from around the country, are traveling to L.A. to put their skills to the test. And you can get a taste – get the full scoop on the gelato competition here!
📍 When: August 30-31, 2025, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
đź“…Â Where:Â Ovation Hollywood, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028
37. Sing along at an exclusive K-Pop Demon Hunters Movie Party
K-Pop Demon Hunter fans now get the chance to experience the Honmoon in person. To celebrate the global sensation (currently Netflix’s most-watched animated original) K-Pop Demon Hunters: A Movie Party invites fans to join in and belt out the film’s hit songs! This limited theatrical event will run for one weekend only. Plus, these parties include a live host, photo opportunities, official branded props, and exclusive giveaways. Get all the info here!
đź“ŤÂ When: Saturday, August 23 to Monday, August 25
đź“…Â Where: select local theaters
38. Grab free swag, coffee, and photo ops at the Facebook Marketplace Pop-Up at Melrose Trading Post
Facebook Marketplace is bringing a real-life experience to Los Angeles flea market Melrose Trading Post. The pop-up is stopping by the flea market with unique (and free) activations on Sunday, August 31, including photo apps, styling, and swag. Plus, the event is also teaming up with Stereoscope Coffee to offer a limited supply of complimentary coffee at their Hollywood location, off of Santa Monica Boulevard. Get more info here!
đź“ŤÂ Where:Â Melrose Trading Post, 7850 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046.
📅 When: Sunday, August 31, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM PT
39. Support Black-Owned businesses and farms at this scavenger hunt and pop-up market
Celebrate Black Business Month at the 5th Annual Black Business Scavenger Hunt and pop-up farmers market hosted at California African American Museum (CAAM). In honor of Black Business Month this August, Prosperity Market founders, Kara Still and Carmen Dianne, created an interactive map with 120+ Black businesses, encouraging Angelenos to visit and support as many locations as possible in order to earn points and win prizes. Prosperity Market and 50+ local vendors and farmers will take over CAAM for the pop-up market. Plus, they’ll have a live DJ, wine garden by 1010 Wine, community resources, a kids’ area by Teach to Reach, photo booth, and more! Learn more here!
đź“ŤÂ Where:Â CAAM (600 State Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037)
📆 When: Sunday, August 31 from 11 am-4 pm
Originally written by Sophie Len.