48 Thoughtfully Curated Things to Do in September in Los Angeles
Summer might be behind us, but these 48 things to do in September in Los Angeles will have you falling in love with this season in the city. Autumn begins September 22nd. This month is all about closure, so if you’ve been thinking about attending an outdoor concert or wine tasting but can never commit fully, it might be your last chance until next year!
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September 1st to September 6th
On Wednesday, September 2nd, plus subsequent Wednesdays, one of the first Thai restaurants in Los Angeles is launching a street food night. Kanom Jeen Curry Night, meant to resemble the stalls of Thailand, features Curries with unlimited Rice Noodles ($24), charcoal-grilled Skewers ($4), and Snacks ($5). Chao Krung Thai on Fairfax is open for dinner beginning at 4:30 p.m.
Friday, September 4th, is the birthday of…LOS ANGELES, and the city is 245 years young this year! Celebrate with a visit to the historic heart of Los Angeles: Olvera Street.
Friday, September 4th, and every Friday until September 11th, is the Barnsdall Fridays Wine Tasting event on the West Lawn of the Hollyhock House in Hollywood. Hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and ticket sales directly benefit the preservation of this historic space. Tickets begin at $55 for those choosing to imbibe and $35 for designated drivers. A select number of tickets also include a tour of The Hollyhock House by Frank Lloyd Wright for an additional fee.
Friday, September 4th, through September 15th is the 20th Anniversary of the movie Cars at El Capitan Theatre. Personally, I just watched this film, so it’s pretty wild that it’s 20 years old. Enjoy the special Fan Screening on the 5th at 7 p.m., and check the website for additional showtimes.
Friday, September 4th, and every Friday in September offer opportunities to hear FREE Jazz on the plaza at LACMA beginning at 6 p.m. You don’t need reservations, but arrive early to claim a seat or picnic spot. This series goes on through October.
Friday, September 4th, is FREE First Fridays at the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena. As the name implies, no tickets are necessary from 4 to 7 p.m.
Saturday, September 5th, is National Cheese Pizza Day, and restaurants like Round Table Pizza and Prime Pizza have historically offered discounts. I don’t know about you, but Saturday is always pizza night at my house.
Saturday, September 5th, hosts a FREE Latin Nights Concert in Hancock Park presented by LACMA beginning at 5 p.m. I don’t see any others in the month, so this one is special.
Saturday, September 5th, is a great night to catch the Dodgers since it’s Yoshinobu Yamamoto “Starter Series” Bobblehead Giveaway Day! The season is winding down, so don’t miss your chance to see a great game against the Washington Nationals at 6:10 p.m. Discounted Tickets still available. The Dodgers are in town all week.
Saturday, September 5th, is a TONGVA TWILIGHT: Sounds & Cinema event in Santa Monica. The fun starts at 7 p.m. with a concert by The Windbreakers and the film Yacht Rock: A DOCKumentary.
Also on September 5th is the American Craft Sake Fest at LUMEN West LA in Sawtelle Japantown from 4 to 8 p.m. This 21+ event will offer over 100 premium sake selections along with sushi from host Yama Sushi Marketplace, one of my favs for incredibly priced sashimi. Tickets begin at $120.
Saturday, September 5th, head to the Santa Monica Proper Hotel for some Labor Day Weekend Vibes on their rooftop from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.Make a free reservation to see Guest DJ duo St. Lucia here.
If you’re on the other side of town, enjoy La Lo La Rooftop in DTLA on September 5th and their Tacos & Tequila Day Party. Hours are Noon to 4 p.m. for Latin house music, frozen Patrón margaritas, and no cover. Save your spot on OpenTable.
Take in a night of your favorite soundtracks with Maestro of the Movies at the Hollywood Bowl. The concert is a tribute to John Williams and features the music of Star Wars, Harry Potter, and more. It’s finished with fireworks. Dates available include September 4th and 5th at 8 p.m., with discounted tickets beginning at $28.
Sunday, September 6th, is a screening of The Sandlot at The Hollywood Forever Cemetery at 8 p.m. It’s a chance to let your kids in on the meaning of “You’re killing me smalls!” Get your tickets here beginning at $24 before fees. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
September 7th to September 13th
Check out a new Happy Hour this week at James Beard award-winning OTOTO in Echo Park. Fifteen Doru Hour revolves around $15 dishes that pair well with sake. The menu rotates and could be anything from Ponzu Peruvian Scallops to Kurobuta Corn Dogs. Drink prices begin at $5 for Orion Lagers and $10 for Spicy Yuzu-Hai shochu bevies. Hours are 5 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Wednesday, September 9th, and every Wednesday through September, it’s Comedy Hang Ten at Gladstones in Malibu. The show begins at 8 p.m.
Thursday, September 10th, and every Thursday in September, the iconic Fairmont Breakers in Long Beach hosts Acoustic Thursdays at their jazz and whiskey lounge, Alter Ego. Head over from 7 to 10 p.m.
Thursday, September 10th, the iconic Mexican restaurant Casa Vega in Sherman Oaks is turning 70! In honor of this hot spot’s anniversary, they are lowering their prices to 1956 standards, meaning you can get a Vega Combo for just $2.15. Don’t forget to pair that plate with some classic Margaritas.
Friday, September 11th, and every Friday in September, offers FREE Jazz on the plaza at LACMA beginning at 6 p.m. No reservations are needed, but arrive early to claim a seat or picnic spot.
Friday, September 11th is the LAST Barnsdall Fridays Wine Tasting on the West Lawn of the Hollyhock House for 2026. Hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and ticket sales directly benefit the preservation of this historic space.
Friday, September 11th and 12th, is One Republic at the Hollywood Bowl with a Fireworks Finale. Get tickets beginning at $46 here.
Saturday, September 12th, is a screening of Goodfellas at The Hollywood Forever Cemetery at 7:30 p.m. Get your tickets here beginning at $26 before fees. Doors open at 5:45 p.m.
Saturday, September 12th, is also the last TONGVA TWILIGHT: Sounds & Cinema event in Santa Monica. The fun starts at 7 p.m. with a Concert by Myra Washington and the film Summer of Soul.
Also on Saturday, September 12th, Little Dom’s in Los Feliz is having an Italian Taco Fundraiser! Visit from Noon to 3 p.m. to find out what Italian Tacos are plus enjoy Cocktails by Sin Hielo. Proceeds benefit the fantastic L.A. Taco news and social justice site as well as CHIRLA whose work helps immigrants and refugees.
Sunday, September 13th, is Rosh Hashanah, and Gelson’s is making it easier than ever to host. They’ve got 5 different dinners for 4 people, like a Beef Brisket Dinner or BBQ Rotisserie priced at just $95. Orders can be placed at gelsons.com through September 19th, with pickup from 9/10-9/13 and 9/19-9/21. In case you’re wondering, this post was not sponsored by Gelson’s (I just think they do great work with holidays).
September 14th to September 20th
Jim Jarmusch-inspired cocktail bar Night on Earth has a new menu, with $14 Cocktails and $8 Teeny-tinis. Located in North Hollywood, these are the prices you’ll see every day of the week – not just happy hour. Go with the $8 deal so you can try both a Marfa Myth and an Odd Throuple.
Monday, September 14th and every Monday, visit Daisy Margarita Bar in Sherman Oaks for their Monday Gran Fiesta from 5 to 7 p.m. Options include Oysters for just $1.50, $12 Signature Daisy Dogs, and Margaritas, plus a Complimentary Pour of Tequila Tromba with any food purchase, although you probably need more than just one oyster.
Monday, September 14th through September 28th, is the IAMA Theatre Company‘s 9th New Works Festival with readings of six new plays by accomplished theatrical artists. Readings take place at the Atwater Village Theatre for $18 a ticket.
Tuesday, September 15th, is the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. September 15th is National Independence Day in many Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Guatemala. This is why the celebration runs from September 15th until October 15th, rather than starting on September 1st.
- An event to consider is the 18th Annual Hola México Film Festival, presented by Toyota, taking place from September 25th to October 3rd, from Hollywood to downtown Los Angeles. Learn more here.
- On September 27th, it’s Mariachi meets The Smiths at The Ford Theater in Hollywood at 7:30 p.m.
Fans of The Bungalow Kitchen in Long Beach can get excited again, because its doors are reopening on September 16th with a brand new Chef. Chef Eric Samaniego hails from Michael’s on Naples, and the space has been completely remodeled. Hours are dinner only for now, beginning at 5 p.m.
Wednesday, September 16th, is National Guacamole Day, which is less exciting than National Avocado Day because Chipotle doesn’t honor it :). Places like Tocaya usually offer something fun.
September 16th to 19th has several Giveaway and Fan Appreciation Days at Angel’s Stadium in Anaheim. There’s a Jo Adell HR Robbery Bobblehead giveaway on September 16th plus Fireworks for the Fans on the 19th.
Friday, September 18th, is National Cheeseburger Day, which is the perfect excuse to indulge. While I’m sure McDonald’s and Burger King will offer a nearly free meal deal, I’d save your calories for something a little more special. Burgers Never Say Die and For the Win are still two of my favorites in the city. I’m a smash girl for life. Dog Haus is rewarding its members with a FREE Cheeseburger on your next visit if you purchase one using your app on the 18th. Sort of like Wimpy from Popeye.
Friday, September 18th, is the return of The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride at Griffith Park. New for this year is a haunting by Fallen Angel, a rock band that met their end during a Halloween rehearsal. Tickets begin at $34.99, and the hayride runs through November 1st. Get yours here.
If you have kids, you might want to consider this more family-friendly Halloween Event, Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns at the South Coast Botanical Garden. Dates are September 18th through November 1st. Add-ons like 3D Glasses and Bounce Houses will be available. Tickets begin at $29.99.
Also on Friday, September 18th, is the start of The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor: Fear Lives Here in Long Beach. The world’s most haunted ship runs select nights through November 1st, with pre-sale tickets open through September 1st and redeemable the 2nd. After that, you can use the same link to purchase tickets, which generally hover around $45.
Friday, September 18th, and every Friday in September, you’ve got FREE Jazz on the plaza at LACMA beginning at 6 p.m. You don’t need reservations, but arrive early to claim a seat or picnic spot.
Saturday, September 19th is Eater’s Off Menu event at the Tam O’ Shanter in Los Feliz. Expect deliciousness from Holbox, Pasjoli, Quarter Sheets, and Nationally-recognized Eater Hot Spotsfrom 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $125 each, and ALL PROCEEDS will benefit World Central Kitchen.
Saturday, September 19th and Sunday the 20th are the first weekend days of Oktoberfest at Benny Boy Brewing. The 2-day fest is FREE to enter and features beers and ciders, live polka music, pop-up food vendors, keg bowling, and more. Wear your lederhosen and dirndls for $1 off steins. The event is for individuals 21 and over only.
Sunday, September 20th, there’s also a Metaphysical Pasta Making Class at Da Prato in DTLA. While learning the fundamentals of pasta making, you’ll be connecting with the divine and our collective consciousness. If that doesn’t make you curious, I don’t know what will?! Tickets for this out-of-body event are $155, and it’s also available Sunday, September 13th.
September 21st to September 27th
Monday, September 21st, is the first L.A. Rams home game of the season against the New York Giants. Get discounted tickets here for the 5:15 p.m. game at SoFi Stadium.
Tuesday, September 22nd, is the first day of fall. Celebrate the Autumn Equinox during Golden Hour at Griffith Observatory. The free event takes place from 6 to 7:15 p.m. Expect live music from John Villalobos and a conversation from the experts at the observatory. Parking is always tricky, so arrive early.
Also on Tuesday, September 22nd, the new location of Michelin-recognized Tim Ho Wan in Irvine is having a Taste of Hong Kong: Mid-Autumn Celebration. Hours are 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., and it’s $38 a person.
Friday, September 25th, is National Lobster Day, and The Lobster in Santa Monica is the perfect place to stretch your claws out. Visit from 3 to 6 p.m. for their Daily Happy Hour or 2 Buck Shuck from 5 to 6 p.m. for Oysters. Also in the neighborhood, Luke’s Lobster has $20 quarter-pound lobster rolls at a $7 discount on September 24th and 25th.
Friday, September 25th, offers FREE Jazz on the plaza at LACMA beginning at 6 p.m. No reservation is needed, but arrive early to claim a seat or a spot for a picnic.
Saturday, September 26th and Sunday, September 27th, Ocean Way Festival hits the shores of Santa Monica. The music festival features the artistry of bands like The Killers, Sublime, Jack White, Oliva Dean, and a whole slew more. Tickets begin at $249 for general admission, so since you’re already “shelling” out that cash, you might as well add a hotel stay that will make the festival that much more comfortable. Hotels like The Viceroy have Escape Packages that include parking and poolside cabanas. The Georgian is also one to consider.
Saturday, September 26th, is the Worldwide Day of Play at the Southern California Children’s Museum. Admission is FREE and includes Bubble Art, Music, and much more! Reserve your free spot here.
Saturday, September 26th, and Sunday, the 27th, are the last days of Oktoberfest at Benny Boy Brewing. The 2-day fest is FREE to enter and features Weenie Dog Racing, Live Music, Pop-up Food Vendors, and more. Wear your lederhosen and dirndls for $1 off steins. The event is for individuals 21 and over only.
Sunday, September 27th, it’s the 25th anniversary of JAR restaurant from Chef/Owner Suzanne Tracht. The Beverly Grove restaurant has gained institution status and will be celebrating with favorite Cocktails, Appetizers, and Santa Maria–style Sliders courtesy of the Hitching Post 2 from Buellton. Best of all, a portion of proceeds from the evening will go back to the Go Campaign, helping children around the world. Reserve on OpenTable for $150 per person while you can.
September 28th to September 30th
Tuesday, September 29th, is National Coffee Day, which promises a perfectly jittery beginning to your week. I always enjoy Krispy Kreme since they throw in a free doughnut, too.
Thursday, September 30th, is the start of LA Design Week/End. Follow this link to see where events are happening through October 4th in the world of Art and Collaborative Sound.
Looking Ahead to October
Halloween is creeping up fast, so if your dream is to watch a film at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery anytime in October, be sure to pre-purchase your Cinespia Tickets Now, as they regularly sell out.
See and submit sustainability events at https://heyclimate.co/la/events