This month is jam-packed with events, parties and unique gatherings. From Halloween and Dia de Los Muertos to film screenings and arts and jazz gatherings, LA's got it going on in October.
Irvine Welsh Reading
When: Oct. 3
Where: Book Soup, West Hollywood
What: The author famous for penning the book that inspired the edgy '90s movie Trainspotting will be at Book Soup promoting his book Skagboys. The new novel takes place in '80s Edinburgh and looks at the early days of 'Sick Boy' and his crew, pre-Trainspotting.
Halloween Horror Nights
When: Oct. 5-7, 12-14, 18-21, 25-28, 31
Where: Universal Studios, Universal City
What: Sometimes a studio back lot can be scarier than a graveyard. Check out the horror of Hollywood at this annual Halloween themed month-long series, taking place from 7 p.m. onwards. Features include terror trams, mazes, shows and rides.
Taste of Downtown Burbank
When: Oct. 6, 5:30-9:30 p.m.
Where: San Fernando between Magnolia and Orange Grove, Burbank
What: Like the name implies, get a taste of Downtown Burbank through samples from more than 40 area restaurants and eateries. Drink wine and beer on the AMC Walkway and watch live music performances. Proceeds go to the Burbank Community YMCA’s scholarship fund.
LA Decom
When: Oct. 13, 1 p.m. until dawn on Oct. 14
Where: LA State Historical Park ('The Cornfield')
What: Celebrate a decade of Burning Man style creativity and mayhem at this annual event. Ten stages will host entertainment, art and activities for all ages. Burners will unite for 18 non-stop hours of live music, DJs, theme camps, art car displays, green tech, puppetry, marching bands and more.
Angel City Jazz Festival
When: Oct. 5-14
Where: John Anson Ford, REDCAT, LACMA, UCLA Royce Hall
What: LA's only jazz and new music festival is back. Original and innovative jazz musicians from the West Coast and around the world will hit the stages for a celebration. The event takes place at four venues and combines music, film, art, dance and food. It will also feature two world premieres.
Rocktoberfest
When: Oct. 15-21
Where: LA Live, Downtown
What: Rocker Gene Simmons and celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck are cooking something up — something rockin' and very Germanic: Rocktoberfest. Presented by Simmons' venue Rock and Brews, the October series includes DJs, live bands, special celeb guests, beer-friendly cuisine and a special craft beer festival. Strictly 21 and over.
Harvest Festival
When: Oct. 20-21
Where: Descanso Gardens, La Canada Flintridge
What: Celebrate the Autumn season with a Descanso tradition which includes food, costume parades, storytelling, music, crafts, garden activities and more. Suitable for the whole family.
Spooktacular Carnival and Pumpkin Dash
When: Oct. 20-21
Where: Lanai Road Elementary Encino 4241 Lanai Road, Encino
What: Spirited family fun comes at no price at this free Halloween event. It features rides, an obstacle course, climbing wall, haunted house, games, eats and treats and a costume parade. Call 818-788-1590 for more information.
Oktoberfest Los Angeles
When: Oct. 20-21
Where: The Vanguad in Hollywood
What: Billed as the largest Oktoberfest in the country, this event will feature plenty of spirits. In a true California interpretation of the traditional German festival, it will feature such highlights as beer pong and keg tapping.
Monster Massive
When: Oct. 27
Where: Los Angeles Center Studios, Downtown
What: “The Monster Mash” is a bit too retro. Thankfully, the Monster Massive has picked up the pace on that old track. The mega-event boasts marquee dance and electronic DJ names from around the globe and caters to the costume-clad and clubby.
