The Best Things To Do in Los Angeles 4/12/24 – 4/14/24
Friday
Ban Ban Burger, New Thai Smashburger Restaurant Opens on Sawtelle
The team behind historic LA Thai restaurants Chao Krung and Tuk Tuk has opened a new Thai smashburger restaurant today, just in time for Thai New Year (Songkran) – 4/13-4/15! Located next door to Tuk Tuk Thai on Sawtelle Blvd, Ban Ban Burger is the newest concept from sisters and co-owners Chef Amanda Maneesilasan and Katy Noochla-or. The playful menu combines the classic American burger with bold flavors of beloved Thai dishes like grapow and laab, plus Thai milkshakes in flavors like pandan, Thai tea, and coconut. Various prices and hours; 1644 Sawtelle Blvd LA CA 90025; 424.256.2388; Cover photo credit: Ban Ban Burger
Coachella
Coachella is back and this year’s music and art festival is headlined by Lana Del Rey and Tyler, the Creator. Weekend one kicks off today with an epic lineup of performances and events, leading up to a killer show by mega artist Doja Cat. Tickets are sold out, but you can still join the waitlist. Have fun, and most importantly, be safe! Various prices; Friday – Sunday and 4/19 – 4/21; Indio, CA
PaleyFest LA Television Festival
Calling all TV fanatics! Obsessed with your favorite shows? Want to see exclusive TV premiere screenings and grill the stars with burning questions? Then grab your tickets ASAP for the PaleyFest LA, happening live and in-person at the Dolby Theatre! This iconic TV festival is the hottest ticket in town, featuring screenings, cast chats, and behind-the-scenes insights. Special guests include: Owen Wilson, Judd Apatow, Mark Duplas, Nicole Beharie, Tig Notaro, and more. $20+; Friday – 4/21, Various hours; Dolby Theatre – 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028; 323.308.6300
Closing Night Party for “Celeb POP” Immersive Art Show at Song-Word Art House
This weekend is the final chance to experience “Celeb Pop” immersive art show at Song-Word Art House. This special collection features art by celebrities (Grace Slick, Val Kilmer, Shadoe Stevens), and artists who paint celebrities (DeVon, Matt Elson, ArtNWordz). After you view the show, join the art house as they bid farewell to the limited run showcase with a special closing night party. Free entry; Friday and Saturday, 6 – 9:00 pm; 8912 W Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069
Saturday
West Hollywood Middle Eastern Restaurant Ladyhawk Debuts Weekend Brunch
Ladyhawk, the hottest Middle Eastern restaurant in West Hollywood, is debuting brunch service this weekend! The new brunch menu comes just in time for peak brunchin’ season in LA and acclaimed Chef Charbel Hayek is here to make sure the Eastern Mediterranean concept is #1 on Angeleno’s go-to brunch list. Various prices; Saturdays – Sundays, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm; Kimpton La Peer Hotel – 627 N. La Peer Dr., West Hollywood, CA 90069; 213.296.3036
Guests can indulge in brunch-twists on Ladyhawk’s signature dishes, including:
- Ladyhawk Brunch Platter: akawi cheese, string cheese, labneh, black olives, tomatoes, cucumber, makdous, honeycomb, two eggs any style
- Za’atar Man’oushe: 48-hour fermented dough, wild thyme, olive oil, tomatoes, herbs, labneh, poached eggs
- Shakshouka: tomatoes, onions, garlic, cumin, two eggs any style, pita bread
- Steak and Eggs: marinated skirt steak, two eggs any style, roasted tomatoes, tahini parsley, breakfast potatoes
Santa Monica Pier Pressure Scavenger Hunt
Unleash your inner explorer with Santa Monica’s Pier to Promenade Adventure! This self-guided scavenger hunt takes you on a fun-filled quest through the iconic Santa Monica Pier and vibrant Third Street Promenade. Unearth hidden gems, solve clues, and discover the magic of Santa Monica’s history, movie magic, and must-see shops – all while soaking in stunning ocean views! $19; Saturday, 2:00 pm; The Santa Monica Pier – 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Celebrate Songkran (Thai New Year) at Chao Krung
Chao Krung on Fairfax is celebrating Songkran today with a traditional Kantaok dinner – including a Northern Thai-style platter and traditional dance performances. Songkran traditions are centered around cleaning and purification rituals to begin the new year. It’s also a festival of unity–family members who have moved away return home to their loved ones during this time (akin to American Thanksgiving). Kantaok refers to customary Northern-style Thai food served on family-style platters. Entertainment will include live performers that highlight the cultures and traditions of Thailand including classical Thai dance and music. $78 (per person); Saturday, 1 – 10:00 pm; 111 N. Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036; 323.939.8361
The menu from Chef Amanda Maneesilasan includes:
- Nam Phrik Num (roasted chili dip/condiment)
- Laab Kua (larb)
- Hunley Curry (pork belly curry)
- Kang Liang Shrimp (soup)
- Sai Uoah (curry sausage)
The Hottest Party in the Desert, Neon Carnival Returns for its 13th Year
LA’s original nightlife mastermind Brent Bolthouse and producing partner Jeffrey Best have announced the return of the hottest party in the desert, Neon Carnival. The legendary late-night dance party synonymous with high-energy entertainment, electrifying performances and a star-studded guest list, makes its return to the famed desert music festival on Saturday for one night only. The exclusive celebration will be presented by Liquid I.V. in association with Patrón El Alto and The Levi’s® Brand. Saturday, 10:00 pm; Desert International Horse Park – 85555 Airport Blvd, Thermal, CA 92274
Sunday
Rose Bowl Flea Market
Calling all treasure hunters and vintage vultures, the second Sunday of every month, the legendary Rose Bowl hosts one of the nation’s most-attended and vendor-thriving flea markets! This world-renowned event features a diverse range of vendors with unique finds, high-quality goods, and a vibrant community of shoppers of all ages. $12+; Sunday, 5:00 am and 9:00 am; Rose Bowl Stadium – 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, CA 91103; 323.560.7469
On Sale Now
(4/18) On Sale Now: A Rooftop Early Summer Kickoff Celebration at Cabra
Rooftop season and warmer nights are upon us, and to kick off the season, DTLA’s Cabra will host a celebration on its rooftop patio atop the Hoxton Hotel. The party will include passed bites and snacks, samples of Cabra’s new seasonal cocktails along with a food station and full bar available for additional purchase. DJ Muezette will provide vibes as guests imbibe and dance the night away while the sun sets over Broadway. $40; 4/18, 6:00 pm; The Hoxton, Downtown LA – 1060 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015; 213.725.5858
(4/29) On Sale Now: Celebrate Make-A-Wish’s Birthday at the American Girl Store in Century City
Celebrate Make-A-Wish’s birthday with a Hawaiian-themed birthday party at the American Girl Store in Century City. $100+; 4/29, 5:30 – 7:30 pm; 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90067
Guests can expect:
- Delicious food
- Specialty cocktails and glitter mocktails
- Crafts for kids
- A private shopping experience
- Opportunity to win exclusive prizes
- A special American Girl commemorative item
(5/4) On Sale Now: No Kid Hungry’s Taste of the Nation Event Returns to LA
No Kid Hungry’s Taste of The Nation food festival is making its highly anticipated return to Los Angeles, at Media Park in Culver City. Attendees will enjoy exceptional eats and curated drinks from Los Angeles’ top chefs and mixologists – including Brooke Williamson, Mei Lin, Shirley Chung, Stephanie Izzard, Jazz Singsanong, and Michael Reed – all united to support No Kid Hungry’s work to end childhood hunger in California and across the U.S. In addition to the incredible line-up of culinary talents, the afternoon will also include live entertainment and games. Taste of the Nation promises a fun-filled day highlighting the vibrancy and generosity of Los Angeles’ culinary community. Los Angeles has no shortage of food events. However, given that 1 in 8 kids in the U.S., and 1 in 7 in California face hunger each day. We’re proud to support No Kid Hungry’s Taste of the Nation which helps raise critical funds and awareness to end childhood hunger. $135+; 5/4, 1 – 4:00 pm; Media Park – 9070 W. Venice Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232
