L.A.'s Best Events: K-EXPO USA, Lightning in a Bottle 2026 & Memorial Day Parties

Cinespia is kicking off our 25th season with a beloved fan favorite "E.T." !

Ongoing Events

Lightning in a Bottle 2026 (Bakersfield): One of California's most immersive music and wellness festivals returns as Lightning in a Bottle 2026 takes over Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area for five days of electronic music, art, camping, and community-driven experiences. Hosted by The Do LaB, the sold-out festival blends massive dance sets with yoga, movement workshops, wellness programming and large-scale art installations, creating a desert-meets-lakeside escape for festival-goers heading out of Los Angeles over Memorial Day Weekend. This year's lineup features headliners including Empire of the Sun, Zeds Dead, Mau P and Sara Landry, alongside sets from Chase & Status, Mochakk, Maceo Plex, Of The Trees and Nia Archives. Festival passes are officially sold out, though resale and transfer options remain available through secondary marketplaces.
When: Wednesday, May 20 through Sunday, May 24 (campgrounds close Monday, May 25 at 10 a.m)
Where: Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area, 13601 Ironbark Rd., Bakersfield, 93311

This Week's Screenings at Rooftop Cinema Club (DTLA): Catch cult classics and fan-favorite films under the stars at Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA, the ultimate cozy movie night destination. From comedy classics like "Superbad" to love stories like "Pride & Prejudice" enjoy fireside-style seating, heaters, and specialty drinks, perfect for date nights or a laid-back night out with friends.
When: Thursday, May 21 through Sunday, May 24
Where: Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA, 888 South Olive St., 4th Floor, L.A., 90014

CODEPINK San Pedro Launches 11th Annual L.A. Harbor Peace Week Amid LA Fleet Week (San Pedro): As L.A. Fleet Week brings thousands to the harbor, CODEPINK San Pedro returns with the 11th Annual LA Harbor Peace Week, a community-led series of events centered on peacebuilding, reflection and alternatives to militarization along the San Pedro Waterfront. In collaboration with San Pedro Neighbors for Peace and Justice, Military Families Speak Out and Veterans for Peace LA, the week offers daily programming including rallies, canvassing, film screenings and interfaith peace gatherings aimed at fostering dialogue around healthcare over warfare and community solidarity.
When: Thursday, May 21 through Monday, May 25 (times vary by event; highlights include daily programming from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and weekend daytime activations).
Where: Various locations across San Pedro Waterfront, including 6th St. & Centre St., USS Iowa Museum, and Garden Church, San Pedro, 90731

With Jéan LA Pop-Up Opening (WeHo): Cult-favorite Australian fashion label With Jéan is officially bringing its effortlessly cool aesthetic to Los Angeles with the opening of its first-ever L.A. pop-up on the Sunset Strip. Known for its modern femininity and celebrity fans including Kylie Jenner, Hailey Bieber and Dua Lipa, the brand's immersive retail space will feature exclusive drops, seasonal installations and its signature ready-to-wear and swimwear collections. Designed as more than just a storefront, the West Hollywood destination aims to bring the full With Jéan lifestyle to life for fashion lovers and trendsetters alike.
When: Opening Friday, May 22 (Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Where: 8644 Sunset Blvd., WeHo, 90069

Tezza Pop Soda Shop at Abbot Kinney (Venice): Tezza Pop is teaming up with cult-favorite soda brand Swig for a playful Memorial Day Weekend pop-up bringing dirty sodas, photo moments and hot girl summer energy to Abbot Kinney. Dubbed the "thirst trap of the summer," the immersive activation invites guests to sip complimentary dirty sodas, snap photos inside the iconic Tezza Photo Booth and explore surprise moments and giveaways throughout the long weekend. Equal parts social hang and aesthetic playground, the Venice pop-up is set to draw content creators, trendsetters and soda lovers alike.
When: Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Tezza Pop, 1306 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 90291

K-EXPO USA 2026 (DTLA): K-culture is taking over DTLA as K-EXPO USA 2026 brings the future of Korean fashion, beauty, entertainment and lifestyle to L.A. for a two-day immersive showcase. Centered around the theme "All About K-Style," the event will spotlight emerging Korean brands, cultural innovators and industry leaders shaping the next wave of global consumer trends through interactive activations, media panels and curated experiences. VIP guests will also gain access to exclusive press conferences, and discussions exploring the global rise of K-content.
When: Saturday, May 23 through Sunday, May 24 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Event Deck at L.A. LIVE, 1005 Chick Hearn Court, L.A., 90015

Ancestry x Nancy Silverton Celebrate Stories of The Original Farmers Market (Beverly Grove): Ancestry is partnering with acclaimed L.A. chef Nancy Silverton to spotlight the legacy of the Original Farmers Market through a Memorial Day Weekend activation honoring the city's multi-generational small businesses. As part of Ancestry's "The Stories of US" campaign, guests can explore a free self-guided walking tour, "The Stories of US: Generations at the Market," which traces the histories of longtime merchant families using historical records and storytelling. Silverton will also debut her first-ever curated "Shop Small Los Angeles Guide," highlighting family-owned restaurants, markets, and cultural institutions that have shaped the city's culinary identity. Visitors can pick up a complimentary map at the Ancestry booth and for every family story shared, Ancestry will sponsor a student through the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship program.
When: Friday, May 23 through Sunday, May 25, 2026
Where: The Original Farmers Market, 6333 West Third St., L.A, 90036

Caravan Cantina Memorial Day Weekend Pool Parties at Hotel June West L.A. (Westchester): Hotel June West LA is kicking off summer with the debut of Caravan Cantina, the hotel's new Baja-inspired taqueria and bar serving coastal bites, frozen cocktails, and tequila- and mezcal-forward drinks just in time for Memorial Day Weekend. To celebrate the launch, the Westside hotspot is hosting two open-to-the-public poolside parties featuring golden hour vibes, DJ sets and plenty of summer-ready cocktails. DJ Brizzle will take over on Saturday, followed by DJ Little Son on Sunday for a laid-back holiday weekend hang by the pool.
When: Saturday, May 23 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, May 24 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Hotel June West L.A., 8639 Lincoln Blvd., L.A., 90045.

Prada Eyewear Collection at The Glass Box (Beverly Grove): A sleek, limited-time pop-up experience bringing Prada's latest eyewear collections to L.A. Guests can explore and try on new men's and women's sunglasses in a curated retail installation, with daily live illustration, refreshments, and photo-ready moments built into the experience.
When: Now through Saturday, May 24 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Glass Box at The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr., L.A., 90036

LA County Fair 2026 (Pomona): One of Southern California's largest annual fairs returns with weeks of rides, food, live entertainment, agriculture exhibits and classic carnival energy across the sprawling Fairplex campus. A long-standing tradition dating back to 1922, the fair blends modern attractions with nostalgic Americana, including concerts, themed zones, and family-friendly experiences, plus appearances from its iconic mascot, Thummer the Pig.
When: Now through Sunday, May 31
Where: Fairplex, 1101 West McKinley Ave., Pomona, 91768

Weekend Brunch @ The Culver Hotel (Culver City): Start your weekend with elevated comfort classics and live music at The Culver Hotel's beloved brunch. From smoked salmon benedict and savory frittatas to cornbread waffles and decadent French toast, the menu blends cozy favorites with a luxe touch, plus bottomless bubbles to keep things festive.
When: Saturday, May 23 & Sunday, May 124 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: The Culver Hotel, 9400 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 90232

Afternoon Tea @ The Culver Hotel (Culver City): Tea time just got a chic refresh. The Culver's revamped Afternoon Tea brings a playful, floral-forward vibe with pink hues and elegant teacups, paired with a menu of sweet and savory delights. Think freshly baked scones with housemade jam, French canelés, smoked salmon tea sandwiches and indulgent petit fours, plus optional upgrades like tuna crispy rice and bottomless sparkling rosé.
When: Saturday, May 23 & Sunday, May 24 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: The Culver Hotel, 9400 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 90232

Photography and the Black Arts Movement, 1955–1985 (Brentwood): This powerful exhibition explores how African American and Afro-Atlantic diaspora artists used photography to celebrate Black culture and advance the civil rights movement during the mid-20th century. Featuring works by artists and activists,from studio and street photographers to graphic designers and community organizers,the show highlights photography as a vital tool for social change during the Black Arts Movement.
When: Now through Sunday, June 14
Where: Getty Center, Museum West Pavilion (Lower Level), 1200 Getty Center Dr., L.A., 90049

"Infinite Horizons: Works by Heather Hutchison and Ruth Pastine" at Louis Stern Fine Arts (WeHo): Louis Stern Fine Arts presents "Infinite Horizons," a new exhibition spotlighting the luminous, meditative works of acclaimed artists Heather Hutchison and Ruth Pastine. Through layered color fields, shifting light and immersive abstract compositions, the exhibition explores the emotional and philosophical relationship between time, space, and perception
When: Now through Saturday, June 27
Where: Louis Stern Fine Arts, 9002 Melrose Ave., WeHo, 90069

Obsessed: Fashion and Nostalgia of the '90s Exhibit (DTLA): Step back into the decade where analog culture met the dawn of the internet. Obsessed: Fashion and Nostalgia in the '90s explores the era's lasting impact through the work of iconic designers including Vivienne Westwood, Jean Paul Gaultier, Anna Sui, Franco Moschino and Gianni Versace. The exhibition highlights how '90s fashion continues to inspire today's creatives, serving as a bold counterpoint to our digital age. Free and open to the public.
When: Now through Saturday, June 27 (Open Wed.–Sat., from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m)
Where: ASU FIDM Museum, 919 South Grand Ave., L.A., 90015

Wednesday, May 20

Something's Happening at French's (Beverly Grove): French's is taking over The Grove with a playful, interactive pop-up asking Angelenos one question: "What's Happening at French's?" Centered around a giant "Do Not Press" button, the activation invites guests into a mystery-driven experience unveiling a new summer surprise from the iconic condiment brand. Attendees can expect free bites, photo-ready moments, and interactive touches throughout the courtyard as French's teases its latest drop in a fun, community-forward way. The experience is free and open to the public, making it an easy stop for curious shoppers and food lovers alike.
When: Wednesday, May 20 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Grove, 189 The Grove Drive, L.A., 90036

Thursday, May 21

World Meditation Day with milk + honey and Dr. Joe Dispenza (Global Virtual Event): The milk + honey community invites guests to join a collective moment of mindfulness in celebration of World Meditation Day, uniting team members, guests, and friends in a shared practice centered on love, gratitude and inner balance. Throughout the day, participants can access a free 15-minute guided meditation by Dr. Joe Dispenza, "Universal Heart, Universal Mind," designed to synchronize the heart and brain and guide the nervous system into a restorative state of calm and coherence. With an emphasis on emotional alignment and energetic connection, the experience encourages a global moment of reflection and intentional stillness, supported by original music recorded with singer Mei-lan Maurits.
When: Thursday, May 21, 2026 (available all day).
Where: Virtual event (accessible online)

Friday, May 22

"All Aboard the BritFlix Express" (Beverly Grove): The Grove transforms into an immersive cinematic journey with "All Aboard the BritFlix Express," a one-day experience celebrating the iconic landscapes and storytelling behind beloved British film and television. Guests are invited to step into an interactive exploration of Scotland's heritage, England's vibrant city life and Wales' sweeping cinematic countryside, all brought to life through experiential installations, themed moments and hidden surprises throughout the space. From culture to coastline, the activation highlights the locations that have shaped some of the most memorable on-screen stories.
When: Friday, May 22 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: The Park at The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr., L.A., 90036

Jazz at LACMA 2026 Brian Swartz Quartet (Miracle Mile): LACMA's Friday Night Jazz series continues with an evening spotlighting the Brian Swartz Quintet, bringing together some of L.A.'s finest jazz talent for an open-air performance beneath the museum's iconic palm-lined setting. Led by trumpeter, vocalist, arranger and bandleader Brian Swartz, whose résumé includes collaborations with Michael Bublé, Patti LaBelle, Keb' Mo' and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, the performance highlights his deep commitment to jazz tradition alongside his acclaimed work as a composer and arranger. Guests can enjoy live music in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere with on-site food offerings from Taco Cartel and Pie 'N Burger, making it an easy Friday night cultural staple in the city.
When: Friday, May 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 90036

LACMA Jazz Nights at Descanso Picnic Experience (Miracle Mile): LACMA's beloved Friday Night Jazz returns, setting the tone for an easy, golden-hour evening of live music under the palm trees, with Descanso extending the experience just steps away through its all-inclusive Jazz Night Picnic Baskets. Designed as a curated outdoor dinner moment, the baskets include chips, salsa, house guacamole, ceviche campechano with citrus-marinated octopus, shrimp and white fish, plus El Descanso house margaritas for two, all packaged with a Mexican blanket and reusable picnic tote to take home. Following the LACMA performance, guests can continue the night nearby with live flamenco and jazz guitar from Ashun, creating a seamless Westside-to-Mid-Wilshire summer soundtrack.
When: Friday, May 23 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (LACMA Jazz) and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Descanso live music).
Where: Descanso, 5773 Wilshire Blvd., L.A., 90036

Saturday, May 23

POP MART Grand Opening at Westfield Topanga (Canoga Park): Global entertainment IP brand POP MART is officially expanding its L.A.footprint with the opening of a new storefront at Westfield Topanga, bringing its highly collectible designer toys and fan-favorite characters to the Valley. To celebrate the launch, the brand will host a Grand Opening event featuring special giveaways for the first 100 ticketed guests in line, including complimentary gifts and access to limited-edition merchandise and exclusive gifts-with-purchase available throughout the day.
When: Saturday, May 23
Where: Westfield Topanga, 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Canoga Park, 91303

Peads & Barnetts Memorial Day BBQ & Wine Pickup at Thatcher's Wine (Brentwood): Thatcher's Wine is teaming up with artisan butcher Peads & Barnetts for a Memorial Day Weekend pre-sale BBQ pickup, offering Angelenos a curated at-home grilling experience paired with expertly selected wines. Guests can pre-order a holiday grilling package featuring baby back ribs, Tuscan wild fennel pollen rub, dry-aged ground beef and a choice of sausages, all designed for a chef-level backyard cookout over the long weekend. Each order can be paired with a hand-selected wine add-on at checkout, with in-store pickup available alongside optional tastings for those stopping by the Brentwood shop.
When: Saturday, May 23 (pickup and optional tasting throughout the day).
Where: Thatcher's Wine, 11740 San Vicente Blvd., L.A., 90049

Balance Mode Event at LANEIGE (Beverly Grove): LANEIGE invites guests into a polished skincare moment at The Grove with its Balance Mode experience, a one-day activation focused on glow, balance and lightweight hydration. Attendees can meet with skincare experts for a custom facial and discover a personalized three-step routine designed specifically for oily skin, leaving behind refined, smooth, shine-free skin with a focus on pore-perfecting results. Guests will also receive an exclusive gift with any $75+ purchase, including featured Balance Mode products, making it a beauty stop worth building into a weekend stroll through The Grove. Walk-ins are welcome, with appointments available online for a more tailored experience.
When: Saturday, May 23 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Park at The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr., L.A., 90036

"E.T." Screening at Cinespia's 25th Season Premiere (Hollywood): Hollywood Forever Cemetery kicks off its 25th outdoor movie season with a nostalgic screening of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" under the stars. Presented by Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video, the beloved fan-favorite film comes with DJ sets before and after the movie, a complimentary sky-high photobooth, popcorn, candy and plenty of Reese's Pieces for the ultimate summer movie night in L.A. Guests can pack a picnic with beer and wine or grab concessions on-site while taking in one of the city's most iconic cinematic experiences.
When: Saturday, May 23 at 8:30 p.m.
Where: Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, 90038

Sunday, May 24

Melrose Trading Post (Melrose): Continuing their Sunday stay, the Melrose Trading Post is back and hosting their weekly flea market. Visitors can shop art, clothing, furniture, beauty products and more from local vendors. Tickets to RSVP for the Melrose Trading Post are $5; buy online here.
When: Sunday, May 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Fairfax High School, 7850 Melrose Ave., L.A., 90046

Swimsuits & Cowboy Boots Pool Party at Desert 5 Spot (Hollywood): Desert 5 Spot is bringing back its fan-favorite "Swimsuits & Cowboy Boots" pool party just in time for Memorial Day Weekend, transforming the rooftop into a Wild West-inspired day party complete with country music, cocktails and cowboy-core energy. Guests can expect poolside DJ sets from DJ Short Shorts, a live Fleetwood Mac tribute performance by The Y'all Star Revue, a cowboy cookout and a curated Trading Post pop-up from Jada & Jon. Equal parts honky-tonk and Hollywood rooftop hang, the sun-soaked celebration invites Angelenos to throw on their best western swimwear and spend the holiday weekend poolside above the city.
When: Sunday, May 24 at 2 p.m.
Where: Desert 5 Spot, 6516 Selma Ave., L.A.90028

"Moulin Rouge!" Screening at Cinespia's 25th Anniversary (Hollywood): Cinespia is bringing Baz Luhrmann's dazzling cult classic "Moulin Rouge!" to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for a glamorous Memorial Day Weekend screening under the stars. Celebrating the film's 25th anniversary, the over-the-top cinematic experience will feature DJ sets, a beer and wine bar and a themed photobooth inspired by the Parisian spectacle of the beloved jukebox musical. Guests are encouraged to dress in their "Lady Marmalade" best for a glittering night filled with romance, nostalgia and cinematic excess in true L.A. fashion.
When: Sunday, May 24 at 8:30 p.m.
Where: Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, 90038

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