July 4th festivities launch the month. Then, things start to feel a bit quiet in this town as people take off on vacation or hunker down at private barbecues and beach picnics. Investigate a little deeper and there are plenty of July events in Los Angeles--from readings and concerts to sports matches and fairs.
Fourth of July Celebrations
When: Weekend of July 4
Where: Neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles
What: Don't miss out on the pageantry, the fanfare and of course the fireworks. No matter what neighborhood you live in, there's something spectacular going on this Independence Day.
Los Angeles Black Pride ATB at the Beach
When: July 4-8
Where: Various venues in Los Angeles
What: Gay Pride was last month in W. Hollywood but the celebration continues and expands to the African-American LGBT community in LA. The promised highlight--'at the beach' takes place on July 7th at Dockweiler Beach in Playa del Rey.
A Prairie Home Companion With Garrison Keillor
When: July 13, 8 p.m.
Where: Hollywood Bowl
What: American humorist Garrison Keillor presents his famed radio show consisting of music and comedy.
Justin Halpern: I Suck at Girls!
When: July 10, 7 p.m.
Where: Skylight Books, Silver Lake
What: If you loved Sh*t My Dad Says, you'll recognize the name Justin Halpern. The comedic author is at it again, this time in his memoir I Suck at Girls. Halpern will discuss and sign the new book.
Outfest
When: July 12-22
Where: DGA in W. Hollywood, Ford Theaters in Hollywood, Harmony Gold Theatre, REDCAT at Walt Disney Concert Hall, Orpheum Theatre in Downtown, LA Gay & Lesbian Center's Village in Hollywood
What: This increasingly popular annual film festival celebrates cinematic works that have impacted (or been made by members of) the LGBT community.
Culver City's Boulevard Music Summer Festival
When: Thursdays, 7 p.m., July 12 through August 2
Where: Culver City City Hall Courtyard
What: Throughout the summer months, Culver City presents four free concerts on Thursday evenings. Shows in July include Argentinian rock with Los Pinguos, and Gypsy Jazz from Stephane Wrembel and his Band.
Tangerine Dream
When: July 12, 8:30 p.m.
Where: Club Nokia, Downtown
What: The legendary, etheric synth band Tangerine Dream performs at Club Nokia. Advance tickets are $38.50-$50
Orange County Fair
When: July 13 through August 12, Wed.-Sun.
Where: OC Fair and Event Center
What: This annually anticipated mega-fair features a carnival, bull riding and concerts from an eclectic group of musical artists (ranging from Spanish guitar to Sinatra-esque lounge).
Bastille Day Festival
When: July 15, 12-8 p.m.
Where: Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area
What: You don't have to be or speak French to enjoy this annual holiday of all holidays for the Gauls. This event will feature comedians, artists, street performers, wine and French food. Entrance is $5; free for children under 13.
CMC Gift & Home Market
When: July 24-31
Where: California Market Center, Downtown
What: This market showcases retailers who offer a wide selection of gift, home decor, accessories, children's and apparel collections. Get your holiday shopping done really early.
