Discover the magic of the Los Angeles Zoo in a whole new light with an electrifying lineup of adults-only and family-friendly summer evening events that are sure to delight animal lovers and partygoers alike. From the wildly popular Roaring Nights and Zoo Friday Nights events to the highly anticipated Brew at the L.A. Zoo: A Sip & Stroll Event, the Zoo is set to host a series of unforgettable experiences that promise an evening of fun in support of the Zoo’s mission. 

Roaring Nights – Saturdays, July 13 and Sept. 14, 2024

Gather your brat pack to celebrate one of the most outrageous decades—the 1980s—with the return of Roaring Nights on Saturdays July 13 and Sept. 14, 2024.  This wildly popular 21-and-up event invites guests to don their most radical neon and acid wash for an ‘80s dance party that’s as decadent as the decade. From totally tubular live music and an immersive silent disco to retro photo ops, a paint party, and special animal presentations, these nights will transport guests to the ultimate era of dance, music, and big hair. On July 13, the AstroYachts, a local “yacht rock” revue band, will bring their ultra-smooth vocals that will keep the crowd sailing on through the night; and on Sept. 14, Flashback Heart Attack, one of SoCal’s most popular cover bands, will pump out the high energy hits of the ‘80s. These events will also have a full bar and food truck offerings for an additional fee. And, ’80s attire is strongly encouraged. Tickets are $25 for non-members and $20 for GLAZA members. To learn more and to purchase tickets, please visit www.lazoo.org/roaringnights. 

Brew at the L.A. Zoo: A Sip & Stroll Event– Saturday, August 3, 2024  

Brew at the L.A. Zoo is an adults-only tasting adventure that allows guests the opportunity to wander through the lush grounds of the Zoo while sampling craft beers, specialty cocktails, distilled spirits, and creative mocktails from over 35 beverage partners. The event will also feature food from L.A.’s top food trucks for an additional fee, live entertainment, music, and more. The evening’s musical lineup includes popular KCRW DJs Tyler Boudreaux and Raul Campos, who will deliver a truly eclectic listening experience; DJ Johnny Hawkes, renowned for his electrifying performances that are a popular mix of hip hop, dance, and classic hits; and live music. Amid the music and merriment, guests can also partake in animal viewings until sundown and pop-up keeper talks, as well as explore the LAIR, the Zoo’s reptile and amphibian house until 8 p.m. Limited VIP tickets are available. Guests must be 21+ to attend. 

VIP ticket holders will have early entry into the event along with access to an exclusive lounge area with premium drinks and culinary delights included in the ticket price. VIP and standard admission tickets are on sale now, with special pricing available for GLAZA members. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.lazoo.org/brew2024. KCRW is the media sponsor for this event. 

• Time: 6:30–10:00pm; 6:00pm entry for VIP 
• Ticket Price: Standard admission: $75 non-member, $65 GLAZA member; VIP admission: $175 non-member, $165 member 

Zoo Friday Nights – Fridays, Aug. 9,16, 23, and 30, 2024 

Gather friends and family to witness wildlife during twilight hours to see what they get up to as the sun goes down. This fun-filled event offers an array of activities for the entire family to enjoy, including a family dance party and games, live music, and interactive education stations, plus paid add-ons like tasty treats from a variety of food trucks and a full bar for those 21+. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children for non-members, and $15 for GLAZA members. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.lazoo.org/zoofridaynights.

Credit: L.A. Zoo.

This summer, discover the beauty and excitement of Southern California aboard the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner®, one of the most scenic train routes in the country. With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills and rugged mountains, Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® offers a unique and relaxing way to explore everything the region has to offer. From quiet towns and beach communities to bustling downtowns and historic sites, summer adventure awaits on the rails.

With the summer travel season being one of the busiest times of the year, Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® is excited to welcome guests with top tips and tricks to ensure visits run smoothly:

• Plan Your Route – Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® travels from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, stopping at numerous picturesque and vibrant destinations along the way. Plan your trip by previewing stations to include stops at charming coastal towns, lively cities and popular attractions. A full list can be found at PacificSurfliner.com/destinations.
• Book in Advance – Summer is a popular time to travel, so be sure to book your tickets early to secure the best seats and travel times. Take advantage of available discounts and consider purchasing a multi-ride ticket if you plan to make multiple trips.
• Pack Light and Smart – Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat and comfortable walking shoes for exploring in the sun. Keep your luggage manageable and be mindful of space during peak travel times, travelers are allowed two personal items like large purses, briefcases, computer backpacks measuring up to 14” x 11” x 7” each and weighing up to 25 pounds each as well as two carry-on bags which can measure up to 28″ x 22″ x 11″ each and weigh up to 50 pounds each.
• Take Advantage of Onboard Amenities – Relax on the journey with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets at your seat and a café car offering snacks and beverages. Relax in spacious seating and take in the stunning views through large windows.
• Stay Informed – Follow Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® on social media and check the website for updates on schedules, special offers and travel tips. Sign up for the newsletter on the homepage to stay informed about any changes or promotions and check the travel advisories at PacificSurfliner.com/alerts. Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® can be found on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and X.

Enjoy the top destinations of the season aboard Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® with the following recommended itinerary stops for travelers:

• Explore Coastal Towns – Stops like Oceanside, Ventura, Santa Barbara and Lompoc-Surf offer beautiful beaches, shopping and dining. Spend the day soaking up the sun, exploring local shops and enjoying fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
• Visit Iconic Attractions – From the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano to the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego, there are plenty of landmarks and attractions to explore. Use the train as your base for day trips to these must-see destinations.

For more information and to book your trip, visit PacificSurfliner.com and start planning a summer adventure.

Credit: Amtrak^® Pacific Surfliner^®

The Shops at Mission Viejo announces the 3rd Annual Free Helmet Giveaway in conjunction with Providence Mission Hospital.

What: In an effort to encourage safe biking and skating, Providence Mission Hospital’s trauma team will be giving away 500 multi-sport style black helmets to children between the ages of two and seventeen years old, while supplies last. Both Mission Viejo Police Services and the Laguna Beach Police Department will be in attendance, providing education about e-bike rules and regulations. Children must be present at the event so they can be properly fitted for a helmet.

When: Saturday, June 29, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: The Shops at Mission Viejo – Center Court, Level 1, near Old Navy

555 The Shops at Mission Viejo

Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Why: E-bike injuries for children and adults have increased sharply since 2019, but in 2023 alone, the number of children who were treated at Providence Mission Hospital for a traumatic e-bike injury increased by 240%.

More Info: For more information including hours, please visit simon.com. – The

Shops at Mission Viejo’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Credit: The Shops at Mission Viejo.

Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles (Levitt LA) is celebrating its 17th annual concert series by presenting 10 world-class performances that are all free and open to everyone. The concerts will be held outdoors, under the stars, with the stunning backdrop of LA’s skyline at MacArthur Park.

For 17 years, Levitt LA has been creating a sense of community through music. This summer, they will once again showcase the diverse cultural landscape of Los Angeles with a fantastic lineup of artists, transforming MacArthur Park into a vibrant and energized urban sonic oasis.

Fans of Levitt LA’s free summer concert series can show their support by purchasing tickets to the Levitt LA fundraiser on Friday, June 7 at the Regent Theater. The evening will be hosted by Pili & Raúl with live performances from Amandititita & Ramona. https://regentdtla.com/tm-attraction/ramona/ 

The electrifying lineup features international greats as well as LA’s superstar talents performing a wide variety of genres including cumbia, ska, soul, reggae, and old school hip-hop.

The 2024 season launches Saturday, June 22 (7-10 pm) with an amazing opening night a night of Cumbia with Vilma y La Sonora, La Diabla, Cumbia Fever DJ’s and Classical Around Town co-presented by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The incredible lineup of both local and international Latin artists continues throughout the summer with acclaimed artists as the incomparable Inspector from Monterrey Mexico, LA’s own Chencha Berrinches and La Pobreska a night presented by Radikal LA and Nothing Less. By way of Portland Oregon comes Y La Bamba, an American indie alternative/experimental band led by singer-songwriter and guitarist Luz Elena Mendoza.

Levitt LA has partnered with local organizations and producers to bring electrifying evenings of uniquely curated SoCal music. Evoekore Media will present an exciting lineup of young upcoming Rockmanticas/Cumbia bands, including Red Store Bums, Flaco El Jandro, and Eastside Agents. Footlong Development is proud to present “Wonder-Full,” featuring DJs Spinna, Monalisa, and Cognito, who will ignite the stage with a soulful-themed dance party paying tribute to Stevie Wonder. No Easy Props presents the 30^th Annual B-Boy Summit honoring Hip Hop culture, headlined by Special Ed and Egyptian Lover. There will be alternative sounds from Pearl and the Oysters, St. Panther, and Los Eclipses. Wrapping up the season is an unmissable showcase from BMI Latin Music.

“Levitt LA is honored to return to MacArthur Park for its 17^th year of free all-ages concerts. We are thankful to all the artists, partners, and people behind the scenes who make live music accessible for so many. This season is going to be a wonderful way to celebrate the creativity and the diversity of our city and beyond with the healing and uniting power of music.” says Allegra Padilla Executive Director.

Levitt LA concerts will be live-streamed and available after the season on YouTube and Facebook, expanding the accessibility of free high-quality concerts for all. For a complete calendar of the Levitt LA Summer Season 2024, please visit www.levittlosangeles.org.

Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles’ 2024 Season is supported in part by:

The Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation, The City of Los Angeles, City of Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department, The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Eunisses Hernandez & Hugo Soto-Martinez, Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis, MacArthur Park, Westlake North, Westlake South, and Rampart Village Neighborhood Councils, Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, LACMA, Koreatown Youth + Community Center, Covenant House, Best Food Trucks, Athens Disposal, EDGE Apartments, Walter J Towers, Walter Mosely Group, BMI, Costco + many more and individual donors like you.

For a Healthy Community:

You can’t enjoy live music if you’re sick. That’s why Levitt LA has teamed up with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health which will provide a free mobile vaccination clinic all season long. No appointments are needed. Times from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Additional Info:

Most concerts begin at 7:00 pm on Saturdays. No concert on July 6. Please see the calendar for the exact schedule.

–          Concerts will be live-streamed on Levitt LA’s YouTube Channel, and Facebook Live.

–          All programs are Free, all ages and open to the public

–          RSVP recommended via Eventbrite: http://levittlosangeles.org Eventbrite

–          For event updates: http://levittlosangeles.org

–          Audience members are welcome to bring their own picnics, blankets, and lawn chairs.

–          Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available from local vendors. Please note no outside alcoholic beverages are permitted.

–          This is a non-smoking venue thank you for protecting the health of all in attendance.

–          Parking: Athena Parking – 611 Carondelet St., Los Angeles, CA 90057 the cost is $13

–          Public Transportation: Metro: Red Line (Wilshire/Alvarado-MacArthur Park/Westlake stop)

–          Bus lines 18, 20, 51, 351, 603, 720

–          Levitt LA recommends rideshare, carpooling, walking and biking to the venue

Credit: Levitt LA

The Cayton Children’s Museum releases its June programming lineup, which will be filled with interactive play for kids and their grownups.

The Cayton kicks off its June festivities with Chalk It Up, which will take place every Friday from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. June through August. Chalk drawings are one of the earliest types of art, and each month the Cayton will welcome a special guest to accompany young artists in transforming our sidewalks into colorful canvases. This month’s special guest will feature Miles Christopher, an abstract painter, chalk artist, muralist, and musician, who lives and works in Southern California. The themes for June include Express Yourself, All Families are Unique with Miles Christoper, Use Your Voice, and No Color but the Rainbow.  More information & tickets

On June 15, kids and their grownups alike will enjoy Parents’ Night Out from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Offering caregivers a night off, children ages 4-10 years will enjoy three hours of activities and free play supervised by the Cayton’s Play Guides. Games and activities include life-size Connect Four, bean bag tosses, floor bowling and more, along with dinner, a snack, and a drink. This limited-time series is offered on the third Saturday of each month through August and is open to both members and non-members. More information & reservations  

In celebration of Father’s Day, kids are invited to create an “I Love You to Pieces” themed gift for their father figures, which will take place on Sunday, June 16, at 11:00 a.m.

On June 19 at 11:00 a.m, The Cayton will also celebrate Juneteenth with Storytime + Art featuring “Juneteenth for Mazie” by Floyd Cooper and craft creating celebration poppers.

Throughout the month of June, the Cayton Children’s Museum will invite its visitors to vote for their favorite plush toy to lead a series of Proud to Be Me Parades in celebration of Pride Month. The parades will be held throughout the museum daily at 1:30 p.m. from June 26 through July 1.

The Cayton offers daily activities including art studio and storytime, which are drop-in and included with admission for members and museum visitors. For more information about daily programming offered at the Cayton Children’s Museum throughout June, visit https://www.caytonmuseum.org/calendar.

Credit: Cayton Children’s Museum.

Celebrate the early days of summer at The Ecology Center’s annual Strawberry U-Pick interactive farm experience. Open to the public Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through June 23rd or while strawberries last, this event is SoCal’s only regenerative organic strawberry picking experience.

With the purchase of a ticket, guests will embark on a self-guided exploration of the farm with three stops along the way, each centered on the theme “Somos Campesinos” (“we are farmers”). After the educational tour, guests can venture into the fields and fill their baskets with fresh strawberries, purchased by the pound. Free from chemical fertilizers and pesticides, the strawberries are safe for children to enjoy straight from the vine.

Tickets are required for all adults and children ages 2 and up. They are $12 per person on Saturdays and Sundays. For more information and to buy tickets, visit theecologycenter.org/berry-u-pick/. 

Plus, make your way to the farm on Thursday nights this summer, for Peace Pizza and Tie-Dye Taqueria events, where you can eat delicious summer-inspired dishes crafted with fresh ingredients straight from the farm. 

Address:

The Ecology Center
32701 Alipaz St
San Juan Capistrano

Credit: The Ecology Center

Crystal Cove Conservancy is kicking off the 2024 summer season with extensive programming for all ages that span from the beach to the trails. Visitors will be delighted to see a combination of new and returning programs at Crystal Cove State Park, as well as extended dates for one of The Conservancy’s most popular programs “The Great Plein Air Art Experience” which will now run through October.

“Summertime at Crystal Cove is magical – and our programs team has been working all year to create new opportunities for folks to explore the park and to reimagine old favorites,” said Crystal Cove Conservancy President & CEO Kate Wheeler. “Our team has been testing new ideas like science hikes and rethinking and expanding classics like the Historic District Walking Tours and movies on the beach to create a menu of programs to help parkgoers deepen their connection with the park and become part of protecting it.”

From hands-on explorations of history and nature to art classes and conservation stewardship, there is something for everyone to explore during the summer at Crystal Cove. The Conservancy’s summer programs will also take place during the third annual California State Parks Week happening June 12-16, 2024.

2024 Summer Programs

The Great Plein Air Art Experience

Every Monday & Wednesday, June 3 – October 30; except June 19, July 1, July 3 & Sept. 2

9:00AM – 2:00PM

Registration is required for these events.

Celebrate over 100 years of plein air art at Crystal Cove State Park and spend a relaxing day capturing the beauty of the Cove on canvas with Crystal Cove plein air artist, Debbie Morines! During these four-hour classes, you’ll take part in living history while learning the step-by-step process of creating your very own plein air painting from beginning to end. Each class will have a break for lunch, but lunch is not provided. Classes are for ages 18 and up.

Tuesdays in the Commons

Every Tuesday; June 4 through September 10

10:00AM – 1:00PM

Stop by the Education Commons in the Crystal Cove State Park Historic District each week on Tuesday for new hands-on educational activities that will help participants learn about ongoing conservation work at the park, the critical habitats at Crystal Cove, and how it all connects with landscape scale efforts to protect and preserve the natural world.

Native Plants: The Key to Climate Resilience

Friday, June 14

9:00AM – 12:00PM

Registration is required for this event.

Part of California State Parks Week

Join a fun, family-friendly nature hike through Crystal Cove State Park’s Moro Canyon as we learn about the coastal sage scrub plant community and how native plants are resilient in our changing climate. This three-mile trek, which includes a short incline, will wind through the canyon to visit a current habitat restoration project. Participants will meet restoration team members and participate in stewardship activities.

Celebrate Crystal Cove State Park’s Natural & Cultural History

Saturday, June 15

4:00 – 8:00PM

Registration is required for this event.

Part of California State Parks Week

Join Crystal Cove State Park and Crystal Cove Conservancy for an afternoon filled with fun and learning, as we celebrate the cultural history of the park. Participants will take part in a variety of activities exploring the Indigenous history of the area, learning about the Acjachemen and Tongva People who have been here from time immemorial and continue to call Crystal Cove and surrounding areas their home.

Historic Beach Cottages & Coastline Restoration Tour

Sunday, June 16

5:00 – 6:30PM

Registration is required for this event.

Part of California State Parks Week

Step back in time for a guided walking tour of the restored Crystal Cove Beach Cottages in Crystal Cove State Park’s Historic District, as Crystal Cove Conservancy expert staff share stories of how each cottage was lovingly and painstakingly restored to preserve the architectural charms and details of the original structures. Participants will also learn about the extraordinary coastal engineering measures taken to ensure the cottages remain resilient to sea level rise.

Explore the Cove Science Hikes

Fourth Saturday of each month; June 22, July 27, August 24 & September 28

10:30 AM – 12:00PM

Registration is required for these events.

Take a hike with a Conservancy educator to explore Crystal Cove State Park’s geological and ecological systems. Explore the impacts and challenges of climate change including fire ecology, ecological restoration, coastal engineering, and marine conservation, as well as native versus non-native species and their impact on natural communities and ecosystem functions.

Historic District Walking Tours

Fourth Saturday of each month; June 22, July 27, August 24 & September 28

2:00 – 3:00PM

Historic District Walking Tours return to Crystal Cove State Park! During this 60-minute tour led by Conservancy educators and former cottage residents, participants will step back in time to explore the history of Crystal Cove and the Historic District’s rescue and restoration.

Movies on the Beach

Monthly from July – September; check CrystalCove.org/Events for upcoming dates.

Grab your friends and family, blankets and beach chairs, and join us for a movie night under the stars! Check The Conservancy’s website for details including dates and movie titles.

Cove Talks

Ongoing; check CrystalCove.org/Events for upcoming dates.

Registration is required for these events.

The Conservancy’s “Cove Talks” aim to bring influential individuals working to change the world to Crystal Cove State Park, as they share a diverse collection of experiences and viewpoints. These talks are another step towards connecting the community to the natural world, while deepening their understanding of issues facing local parks, the coast and the planet.

Grunion Run

One night only; check CrystalCove.org/Events for details

Registration is required for this event.

This one night only event will open your eyes to the world of the grunion. Join Conservancy and Park educators to learn about the grunion run phenomenon and the importance of coastal and ocean conservation, followed by a guided observation of the silvery fish as they emerge from the water to spawn.

For more information about summer programming at Crystal Cove and to register for upcoming programs, visit CrystalCove.org/Events.

Credit: Crystal Cove Conservancy.

Summer is fast approaching and the world-famous Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach is offering the must-have accessory of the season for families, art-enthusiasts, and entertainment-lovers alike: a Festival of Arts membership. In addition to securing free admission to the Fine Art Show for the 2024 summer season, members can look forward to exclusive programs, discounts, special gift packages and much more.

“Receiving my Festival of Arts membership as a birthday gift from my son and daughter-in-law is a highlight each year. It’s not just a membership; it’s a tradition that holds a special place in our family’s heart,” shared Colleen Walker of Newport Beach. “What I love most is the unlimited access to the Fine Art Show. I often bring my sister and the grandkids along, creating cherished memories walking around, meeting the artist, and making our own art – these are the memories we treasure.”

This summer, strut your stuff as a VIP (Very Important Patron) at the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters as a member! Memberships start at just $50 per person and offer a wealth of benefits including:

• Priority ticket access to the 2025 Pageant performance in early October before general the general public
• Free admission to the Festival Fine Art Show for you and one guest all summer long (excludes August 24, 2024)
• Catch up on what’s happening with the Festival’s digital newsletter
• Invitation to the Festival of Arts Annual Meeting, November 13, 2024 (voting members only who reside in Orange County, California)
• Invitation for you and a guest to attend Member Appreciation Day, Sunday, July 28, 2024. Includes backstage open house, membership gift package, and special entertainment!
• 20% off Festival Gift Shop merchandise
• 20% off Laguna Playhouse Main Stage Productions. January-December 2024

For those seeking an even more elevated Festival of Arts experience, higher-level membership packages offer exclusive perks such as two tickets to the highly anticipated annual Gala event, private parking space on select dates, a private table for four at a Concert on the Green with wine and commemorative glasses, VIP Night invitations, and more. 

“The artistic passion at the Festival and Pageant in Laguna Beach never ceases to amaze me,” shared Longtime Festival of Arts Member Becky Cool. “Nowhere else can you experience such overwhelming dedication from loyal volunteers. I have proudly collected many pieces from the exhibiting artists, from jewelry to glasswork, all very beautifully crafted.”

A Festival of Arts membership enables patrons to experience all that the Festival of Arts offers while helping to support the art exhibit, Pageant of the Masters, scholarship and art education programs, special events, and more. A portion of each membership is tax-deductible and helps fulfill the mission to promote and produce events that encourage the appreciation of the arts. 

Memberships start as low as $50 per person and offer a Laguna Beach arts experience like no other. Gift memberships are also available. To stay up to date on all things Pageant of the Masters and Fine Arts Show visit www.foapom.com or follow @FestivalPageant on social media. To support the Festival of Arts, please visit www.foapom.com/supportnow.

Credit: The Festival of Arts.