Weekly Guide to the Best Things to Do in LA
Monday
Raising Cane’s National Chicken Finger Day Offers FREE Chicken Finger & $1M KickStart Kids Fundraise
Today, Raising Cane’s will celebrate National Chicken Finger Day (the holiday created by owner and founder Todd Graves) with its biggest National Chicken Finger Day yet! Customers in Southern California will have the chance to enjoy a FREE Chicken Finger (with the purchase of a Box Combo for eligible Caniac Club members and Hot Fresh News subscribers) while supporting a meaningful cause. In honor of Todd’s longtime friend Chuck Norris, Raising Cane’s will donate $1 from every Box Combo purchased today, up to $1 million, to KickStart Kids, the nonprofit Chuck founded to help students build character and confidence through martial arts. Free with purchase; Monday, Various hours and locations
RUNWAY Playa Vista Announces New Dining, Retail and Wellness Additions
RUNWAY Playa Vista (RUNWAY), the Westside’s premier mixed-use destination, today announced several new additions to its growing lineup, including frozen yogurt favorite Go Greek, rotisserie chicken restaurant Dizzy Bird, family-forward retailer UPPAbaby, and a new yoga studio helmed by existing tenant, Joliet Cafe & Bar. The new tenants reflect Hines’ vision for RUNWAY as a neighborhood-centered destination for Playa Vista — a walkable place where dining, wellness, retail, residential living and community experiences come together throughout the day. Various prices; Mondays – Sundays, Various hours; 12775 W Millennium, Playa Vista, CA 90094; 310.862.9461
Better Buzz and COOLA Team Up for a New Tropical Summer Refresher
Better Buzz Coffee Roasters is teaming up with COOLA, the award-winning California suncare brand recognized for its organic, reef-friendly SPF products and commitment to clean, skin-conscious formulas, to launch the Piña COOLAda Refresher, available at all Better Buzz locations. Inspired by the flavors of a tropical getaway, the new refresher combines coconut and pineapple lemonade layered with blue spirulina green tea for a vibrant, refreshing sip that’s as photo-worthy as it is delicious. Various prices; Mondays – Sundays, Various hours and locations
Tuesday
It’s Taco Tuesday!
It’s Taco Tuesday Los Angeles, and that means one thing: epic deals on everyone’s favorite LA staple. But with countless taquerias and restaurants offering specials across the city, navigating the options can be like finding the perfect avocado – daunting and potentially messy. Here’s the thing though – going out for Taco Tuesday is honestly one of the best things to do in Los Angeles, whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting our amazing city. There’s something magical about discovering hole-in-the-wall gems, trying authentic family recipes, and bonding with friends over incredible tacos and margaritas that perfectly captures the LA spirit. Worry not, fellow LA taco enthusiasts, for your taste bud compass is here! Let’s embark on a culinary adventure across Los Angeles, exploring who has the best Taco Tuesday near me.
Wednesday
Contemporary Seafood Restaurant San Damian Debuts in Venice
Chef Enrique Olvera has officially opened San Damian on Abbott Kinney, a breezy, California-leaning sister to his beloved Arts District spot Damian, spotlighting hyperlocal seafood and produce. The stunning ceviche alone (rockfish, avocado, olive oil, and lime) makes this one of the most delicious new things to do in LA for a date night or girls’ dinner. Various prices; Wednesdays – Sundays, Various hours; 1025 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90291
The OC Fair is Back
The OC Fair is back! Get ready to scream your lungs out on heart-pounding rides, indulge in deep-fried (and not-so-deep-fried) treats, and soak up the end of summer vibes with live music and dazzling exhibits. Advance tickets are required, so grab yours and get ready for an epic adventure! $13+; Wednesdays – Sundays (thru 8/16), 11:00 am – 11:55 pm; 88 Fair Drive – Costa Mesa, CA 92626; 714.708.1500
Celebrate National Lipstick Day with FREE Lipstick at MAC
Pucker up — National Lipstick Day is back, and MAC is celebrating with FREE lipstick! Stop by any freestanding MAC Store in the US to score a free MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Taupe or You Wouldn’t Get It, no purchase necessary. Free; Wednesday, Various hours and locations
Friday
FREE Friday Night Dance Parties Return to Dance DTLA (Cumbia)
The Music Center’s Jerry Moss Plaza keeps the summer groove going with FREE, all-ages Friday night dance parties, complete with instructors on hand to teach easy steps — this Friday’s lineup features a lesson in Cumbia, the lively, hip-swaying partner dance rooted in Colombia’s Caribbean coast, plus a mini lesson in Merengue. Grab your friends, throw on your cutest ‘fit, and get your steps in without paying a cover — this is one of the most fun and social things to do in LA on a budget. Free; Friday, 7:00 pm; The Music Center – 135 N Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Saturday
Weekends Are For Bottomless Brunch
Here in LA, booze and brunch go together like peas and carrots. Whether you want Waffles, Eggs, or Avocado Toast, nothing complements your meal like an ice-cold cocktail, especially if that glass is endless. But where can you find these brunches with bottomless cocktails and tasty bites? Don’t stress; I got you. I’m here to give you a list of the best bottomless brunches in Los Angeles. So all you have to do is grab a cute brunch outfit and your date, and get ready to indulge in fun, good food, and drinks. Cheers! Saturdays – Sundays, Various hours and locations
La Lo La Rooftop Brings Brunch Back with DTLA Skyline Views
Brunch is back at La Lo La Rooftop, the open-air sanctuary perched 34 stories above Downtown Los Angeles. Brunch pairs sweeping 270-degree views stretching toward the Hollywood Hills with daytime favorites including Steak & Eggs with chimichurri, a loaded Breakfast Burrito, The New Yorker bagel with smoked salmon and cream cheese, and for a sweet treat, the Waffle & Gelato with berry compote. Cocktail highlights include It’s a Vibe with gin, St-Germain, cucumber and lavender; the Sandia Picante with reposado tequila, watermelon and habanero; and the Paloma Verde with mezcal, poblano and grapefruit, with mimosas and Bloody Marys rounding out the brunch lineup. Various prices; Saturdays, 12 – 3:00 pm; Moxy & AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles – 1260 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015; 213.789.7650
Le Dîner en Blanc Secret Pop-Up Outdoor Picnic Returns to LA
After a seven-year hiatus, Le Dîner en Blanc is returning to Los Angeles this Saturday, bringing thousands of elegantly dressed guests to a secret, undisclosed LA landmark for one of the most spectacular and talked-about dining experiences in the world — with this year’s theme “Une Soirée Parisienne – La Belle Époque” encouraging feathered hats, tailored white suits, a masquerade mask for a little added mystery, and all the theatrical drama you can muster. This is hands down one of the most unique and breathtaking things to do in Los Angeles this summer. $65 – $80; Saturday, time and location to be disclosed after ticket purchase
FX The Shards 1980s Transformation at Iconic Sherman Oaks Galleria for One-Weekend-Only Retro Takeover
FX is bringing the iconic mall back to the 1980s with a one-weekend-only retro takeover, welcoming fans to experience its newest TV show The Shards – a seductive drama series from executive producer Ryan Murphy, based on the acclaimed bestselling novel by Bret Easton Ellis. Set against the vivid backdrop of 1980s Los Angeles, the series follows a group of privileged high school seniors at an elite prep school as they navigate identity, sex, jealousy, obsession and the dangers lurking beneath the surface of American adolescence. Guests can sign up to attend the activation HERE. Free; Saturday – Sunday, Sherman Oaks Galleria – 15301 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403; 818.382.4100
The takeover is an authentically recreated ‘80s-era mall, and guests will be able to swipe a collectible credit card, granting them access to:
- Licorice Pizza’s Listening Station Powered by RadioShack: Pop on a pair of headphones to be transported back to the ‘80s and flip through a collection of iconic vinyl albums while listening to nostalgic tracks through turntables inspired by the era.
- Maybelline’s Fit Me Matching Kiosk: Get shade-matched by a professional makeup artist to find your perfect Fit Me Foundation, then take it home alongside other Maybelline products to recreate the ultimate ‘80s glam look.
- The Fit: Customize a t-shirt with nostalgic designs inspired by 1981 Los Angeles, heat pressed on-site.
- Arcade & Photo Booth: Enjoy retro arcade games and a photo booth for an analog takeaway.
- Suncrest 5 Theaters: Get a sneak peek at FX’s “The Shards” in this 80’s movie theater photo opp.
- Creamery: Enjoy free soft serve at a counter channeling a classic ‘80s scoop shop featuring nostalgic flavors created by Creamy Boys Ice Cream.
- *All giveaway items are while supplies last. Guests must be 18+.
Watch the Oceanfront Film Series Cinema by the Sea, at Regent Santa Monica Beach
This summer at Regent Santa Monica Beach, guests and locals are invited to experience summer evenings with their signature oceanfront film series, Cinema by the Sea, on their Lower Pool Deck. The hotel is featuring beloved road-trip and travel movies that honor the 100th anniversary of Route 66, designed to transport, delight, and inspire. Attendees will also get to enjoy Route 66–inspired cocktails and elevated bites, along with classic movie treats like popcorn and soft drinks. $52; Saturdays thru 8/29, 8:00 pm; Regent Santa Monica Beach Lower Pool Deck – 1700 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310.458.6700
This month’s films include:
- 8/1/26 – Eat Pray Love (PG-13)
- 8/8/26 – To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (PG-13)
- 8/15/26 – Little Miss Sunshine (R)
- 8/22/26 – Almost Famous (R)
- 8/29/26 – Grease (PG)
Sunday
lululemon FREE Summer Series Continues with Sculpt Cardio by Dani Coleman
Roll out your mat and take your sweat session outdoors with lululemon’s FREE Summer Series. Spend your Sunday Funday with a complimentary Sculpt Cardio class with lululemon Ambassador Dani Coleman, combining low-impact strength intervals with cardio bursts to build agility, endurance, and full-body strength without the joint-pounding impact. Registration is required, so grab your water bottle and workout shoes and get ready to flow. Free; Sunday, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm; Pacific Design Center – 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90069; 310.657.0800
St. Vincent with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra (KCRW Festival)
St. Vincent is trading her usual arena theatrics for a full symphonic treatment, joining the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra for a one-night-only reimagining of her catalog under the stars. This is easily one of the most unique things to do in LA this week if you love live music with a little extra drama and grandeur. $27+; Sunday, 7:00 pm; Hollywood Bowl – 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90068; 323.850.2000
FREE CONCERT! Trey Songz, Soulja Boy, Ray J, Kid Ink & MORE!
Mark your calendars for Hopeless Hearts Part 2 featuring Trey Songz, Soulja Boy, Ray J, Kid Ink, Dorrough, and surprise guests. The event is FREE with RSVP (21+, must be first-come first-served), or grab a $20 VIP ticket for guaranteed pit access, plus fully stocked bars, food trucks, and art vendors on-site. Free with RSVP; Sunday, 3 – 10:30 pm; Pershing Square – 532 S Olive St., Los Angeles, CA 90013
Coming Soon
(8/3 – 8/4): Live Love Spa Announces 9th Annual National Wellness Month Two-Day Celebration
Live Love Spa is celebrating National Wellness Month in the most spectacular way possible. Their 9th Annual Two-Day Wellness Celebration lands in Downtown Los Angeles this August with 350+ wellness leaders, 60+ innovative brands, expert masterclasses from Phytomer and Eminence Organic Skin Care, immersive recovery technology, advanced aesthetics, and VIP swag bags that will have every wellness lover in the city clearing their calendar immediately. This is the wellness event of the summer and one of the most unique things to do in LA in August. Head to livelovespa.com for all the details! $199+; 8/3 – 8/4, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm; Hudson Loft in Downtown Los Angeles – 1200 S Hope St., Los Angeles, CA 90015
(8/8 – 9/12): Corey Helford Gallery Celebrates 20 Years with Landmark Anniversary Exhibition
Corey Helford Gallery is celebrating 20 Years with Landmark Anniversary Exhibition! Marking two decades of championing visionary artists, the milestone exhibition launches a special two edition anniversary series celebrating the extraordinary creative community that has shaped Corey Helford Gallery since its founding in 2006. Featuring newly created works by an exceptional roster of artists who have exhibited with the gallery throughout its history, the exhibition reflects CHG’s enduring impact on the evolution of the New Contemporary movement and its role in elevating artists on both a national and international stage. Free; 8/8 (opening reception) and Tuesdays – Saturdays, 12 – 6:00 pm; 571 S. Anderson St. Los Angeles, CA 90033
(8/10 – 8/11): Benson Boone Live at Crypto.com Arena
Get ready to sing your heart out as Benson Boone is coming to Crypto.com Arena for two nights as part of his Wanted Man Tour. Grab your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable night of pop anthems in downtown LA. $44+; 8/10 – 8/11, 8:00 pm; Crypto.com Arena – 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015; 213.742.7100
(10/30 – 11/1): L.A. Comic Con Returns to the LA Convention Center
Tickets are officially on sale for L.A. Comic Con’s 15th anniversary, taking place 10/30 – 11/1 at the Los Angeles Convention Center — and yes, that’s Halloween weekend! With a stacked lineup including Nicolas Cage, Hayden Christensen, the KPop Demon Hunters cast, and stars from Breaking Bad, Outlander, and The Office, early bird pricing won’t last long, so grab your passes now at comicconla.com. $42+; 10/30 – 11/1, Los Angeles Convention Center – 1201 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015; 213.741.1151
