February in Los Angeles is not tourist season, but it is a favorite for locals as there is plenty going on. It is of course the month of love and as the city shakes off the mild winter chill, the cultural heartbeat quickens with an excitement.
From cutting-edge art exhibitions to exhilarating concerts, from unique culinary experiences to groundbreaking theatrical performances, Los Angeles in February 2024 is a treasure trove of unmissable events.
This guide will navigate you through the must-see events of the month, ensuring that you experience the very best of what our amazing metropolis has to offer.
1 – Valentine’s Day Events
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Valentine’s Day is around the corner and Los Angeles is brimming with unique experiences to make your February 14th truly unforgettable.
Our first suggestion is a concert at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Whisk your sweetheart away to this iconic landmark for an evening at the Masonic Lodge at the famous cemetary. The singing duo Johnny Swim, who are an actual couple in real life, will be putting on an intimate performance.
Romeo and Juliet with a Twist: Take a fresh look at the Bard’s timeless love story with Secret Los Angeles’ Candlelight Concerts series. Enjoy renditions of beloved classics and new interpretations in cozy, candlelit settings across the city.
Last but not least we suggest a romantic Gondola Ride. Escape to Italy without leaving home as you glide down our scenic waters in a traditional gondola, serenaded by an Italian crooner. The most romantic way to spend Valentine’s Day!
You can find a gondola ride at Gondola Getaway in Long Beach, Gondolas D’Amore in Redondo Beach.
Location: various
Pic Credit: @getmyboat
2 – Chinese New Year Celebrations
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The Year of the Dragon is roaring in starting on February 10th and ending on the 24th! Celebrate with our Chinese community at the 125th Golden Dragon Parade. You can experience this legendary 5-block spectacle in the heart of Chinatown! Witnessing the majestic Golden Dragon dance is a must-do for any L.A. resident. Catch the parade on February 17th and soak in the energy of colorful floats, lively performances, and booming drums.
Representing the beach cities you can also head to Santa Monica Place to celebrate Lunar New Year. Here you can write a wish for the cherry blossom wishing trees, stand under the red and gold lanterns in Center Plaza, and grab a photo with all of our festive Lunar New Year décor.
Also we recommend visiting Pasadena for an awesome Lunar New Year Festival. Journey to Santa Anita Park on February 17th and 18th for a family-friendly extravaganza. Witness lion and dragon dances, martial arts demonstrations, cultural performances, and a vibrant vendor marketplace.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @secretlosangeles
3 – February Fests
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The month of February brings with it lots of amazing festivals and celebrations! On February 6th to 19th the iconic 32nd Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) returns, showcasing the best of Black cinema, art, and cultural expression from around the globe. Don’t miss out on this awesome event.
Needs some Cali Vibes? Then Cali Vibe Fest is for you! Get Ready for Sun-Soaked Sounds and Reggae Rhythms on February 16th to 18th at the scenic Marina Green Park in Long Beach. This three-day extravaganza promises to be a tropical oasis just blocks from downtown and transporting you to a world of island beats, mouthwatering island-inspired cuisine, and endless good vibes.
Looking for some good foodie events this month? Street Food Wednesdays could be the answer for you! Starting February 7th every Wednesday of this month Pershing Square is serving up a delicious slice of the Street Food Wednesdays action. Expect food and artisanal vendors from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @axs
4 – Art Events
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Angeleno art lovers prepare yourselves for an explosion of art happening this month in our beloved city. We invite you to explore Frieze Out in Santa Monica. For the first time ever, Frieze Los Angeles sets up shop at the iconic Santa Monica Airport on February 29th – March 3rd.
Expect a global feast of contemporary art featuring leading galleries, emerging artists, and thought-provoking installations. From established icons like Jeff Koons to rising stars like Amoako Boafo, Frieze promises a captivating glimpse into the future of art.
Next in our list of awesome February recommendations is Mystic Pizza. Remember that cult-classic film with Julia Roberts slinging slices and dreaming of art school? Well, Mystic Pizza is getting a temporary, artistic makeover with a new play based on the movie in La Mirada. Expect immersive performances, interactive installations, and a chance to relive your 90s nostalgia amidst artistic flair.
Lastly, we invite you to attend the one and only LA Art Show. The grand dame of LA’s art scene returns to the Los Angeles Convention Center in all its glory on February 14th-18th. Over 120 galleries from around the world showcase exceptional works across various mediums – painting, sculpture, photography, and even performance art. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover established masters and stumble upon the next big thing.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @folsomtimes
5 – NASCAR in LA
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Brace yourselves Angelenos because you are about to experience NASCAR in LA! Get ready for the Busch Light Clash 2024, kicking off the NASCAR Cup Series season in style amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
The season opening exhibition features the stars of the NASCAR Cup Series, but there is more! This year, the Clash brings double the thrill with a NASCAR Mexico Series race preceding the main event. Also, enjoy pre-race festivities including Live music, interactive fan zones, and celebrity appearances that will set the stage for an awesome experience.
This is all happening on February 4th, so get your tickets online at NASCARClash.com or https://www.lacoliseum.com/events/nascarclash-2024
Location: 3911 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037
PIC Credit: @bmostadium
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