Editor’s Note: While we are doing our best to keep our listings up to date, thanks to COVID, in-person events are changing daily (sometimes multiple times a day). Please check the website of the event for the latest, most up-to-date information.
The third weekend of Jan. is full of surprisingly fun yet socially-distant options for families around LA. Catch a waterfall at one of LA’s most kid-friendly hikes (thanks rain!), go see the last of the outdoor holiday light displays before they’re gone until next Dec., or if you’re feeling less adventurous but want to make this MLK weekend extra special, dive into some at-home volunteering opportunities. Everything you need to know is below including our favorite, free and socially-distant activity to do in LA with kids. Have fun and stay safe!
photo: Veronica R. via Yelp
Santa Monica Symphony Orchestra & MLK Jr. Concert
Pop over to the Westside for a special orchestral concert in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. This event is free and will include Piano Concerto in One Movement Dvorak: Symphony No. 9, “New World” & Traditional: We Shall Overcome. Pre-Registration Required. Sat. Event details.
Click Here For Our Full List of MLK Day Events & Activities in Los Angeles
Sneakertopia
It’s more than Sports. It’s more than Hip Hop. Sneakertopia is the ultimate expression of art and culture connected to all things sneakers! Step into a celebration of one of the most unique cultural phenomenons of this generation. Sneakertopia brings guests along the journey of what started as an article of clothing and turned into a global culture. Through immersive art installations, the audience is encouraged to step into the world of sneakers and all of its connected cultures – sports, music, film, art, design, fashion. Ultimately, guests are empowered to put their own footprint on each scene. This is a sneaker utopia. This is Sneakertopia. Fri.-Sun. Event details.
Waterfall Hikes in LA
Believe it or not, waterfalls do exist in Los Angeles (and thanks to our recent epic rainfall, they’ll be gushing more than ever). From quick and easy beginner treks to more adventurous trails, these family-friendly waterfall hikes in SoCal are almost out-of-this-world (or at least out of the dry, desert-like climate we’ve come to know and love). Check out our full list and remember to go early to beat the crowds. Check websites for park opening and closing times. Fri.-Sun. Event details.
Southern California Slack Key Festival
One of the most acclaimed Hawaiian concerts to ever leave the islands, the Southern California Slack Key Festival takes fans on a Hawaiian musical journey that showcases GRAMMY-winning slack key guitarists, the best hula dancers in the world, special guest performers and a free to the public Island Marketplace. This year’s Southern California Slack Key Festival’s line-up includes George Kuo, Jim “Kimo” West, Makana, Jeff Peterson, Kenneth Makuakane, Patrick Landeza & Sons, Ian O’Sullivan, Pomaika’i & Malie Lyman, Alan Akaka, Patrick “Kaipo” Asing. Sun. Event details.
Recycled Art Making: reDiscover Center
Get crafty with the whole family! Culver City’s reDiscover Center hosts this fun, kid-friendly “make and take” event for ages 4-8 on the plaza at Ivy Station Culver City. Tap into your inner maker and create something new out of recycled and reclaimed materials. A different art project every Sat. Come to one event or all! All materials provided. Sat. Event details.
Hayao Miyazaki Exhibit
The Hayao Miyazaki exhibition marks the first North American museum retrospective dedicated to this internationally beloved filmmaker whose animated movies have inspired all ages for over 50 years. The ethereal “Mother Tree” near the front of the exhibit instantly transports you into the magical mind of Miyazaki while “the retrospective incorporates all of Miyazaki’s animated feature films—like My Neighbor Totoro (1988) to the mystical, Academy Award®-winning Spirited Away (2001)—into a series of immersive environments that offer a journey both educational and experiential.” Fri.-Sun. Event details.
Read our full review of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures!
Paws & Pages at Annenberg PetSpace
Visit Annenberg PetSpace for a socially-distanced story time, Pet Encounter, and take-home craft. Help your young reader build communication skills and self-confidence by reading with adoptable pets or listening to a story. This in-space experience includes a book reading, opportunity to meet an adoptable pet or critter ambassador, and craft demonstration with materials to take home and complete. This fun, family-friendly activity features a new book every week and a craft for little ones to enjoy! Sat.-Sun. Event details.
Harlem Globetrotters: Tickets on Sale Now
The Harlem Globetrotter’s Spread Game Tour will feature all-new premium experiences that are guaranteed to take your night to a whole new level. Their one-of-a-kind show is unrivaled in the world of family entertainment with incredible ball handling, hilarious comedy and loads of fan interaction. Game Date: Feb. 27. Event details.
Last Chance to Experience These Events
South Coast Botanic Garden GLOW
South Coast Botanic Garden’s GLOW (or Garden Lights & Ocean Waters) has been reimagined for its sophomore year. Guests can expect a better and brighter experience. Food, drinks, music and a transformative Garden featuring thousands of lights will have you hanging on the beach, drinking cocktails on the bayou and chasing waterfalls. And a stunning kelp forest will take your breath away and spark your interest in the beauty of the sea. This year’s exhibit also includes interactive experiences and themed nights (more information coming). And remember, Members get discounted tickets! Not a Member yet? Become one today! Fri.-Sun. Event details.
Lightscape
The internationally acclaimed Lightscape is the must-see holiday event! you can wander through the magnificent Cathedral of Light, view the nocturnal skies in our Star Tunnel, experience the breathtaking Fire Garden and more. Lightscape transforms the Arboretum into a night of wonder and light for an unforgettable holiday event for family and friends. Fri.-Sun. Event details.
—Andie Huber
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