A Big List of Things To Do This November in L.A. [2023]

November is here, which means it’s time to “fall back,” trim the daylight and get prep for the holidays. And as for to-dos? Fresh ideas are blowing in like a warm Santa Ana.

This month in Los Angeles you’ll find multiple Día de los Muertos celebrations, an Autumn Festival at The Aquarium of the Pacific, Inglewood Open Studios, Lightscape at the L.A. Arboretum, Astra Lumina at the South Coast Botanic Garden, the L.A. Auto Show, a Fall Festival in Burbank, the Great Los Angeles Walk, and much more. Our full list starts below. Enjoy!

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M = Less than .5 miles from an L.A. Metro Station, FA = Free Admission, TP = Top Pick

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Spaghetti Festival at The Elysian (November 1-11 )-> The Elysian Theater hosts 10 days of new plays and performances produced by emerging talent, all being presented for the first time, and all in the spirit of “let’s throw it against the wall and see what sticks!” Get tickets, more information and see the full lineup of shows here.

24th Street Theatre Día de los Muertos (November 2) – FA > 24th Street Theatre’s Día de los Muertos Festival is back this Thursday. Now in its 18th year, the annual event draws thousands of guests, offering an evening of live performances, food vendors, artisan booths, altars, art installations, and a cemetery of remembrance. Runs 6 to 10 p.m., and free to attend. More info here.

John Williams Spotlight Series (November 2-3) – M > As part of a multiyear retrospective, legendary composer John Williamns has curated a series dedicated to film music at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, with concerts to be conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, David Newman, and Thomas Wilkins. The series opens this Thursday and Friday with a live score-to-picture screening E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, featuring Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Both evenings begin at 8 p.m. Tickets start as low as $74. Get more info here.

That Damn Horse: The Stories of Gay Rodeo at The Autry (November 2) -> That Damn Horse: The Stories of Gay Rodeo is a theatrical reading/performance based on 60+ interviews collected from the Gay Rodeo Oral History Project (housed in the Autry archives), which explores the history and diversity of gay rodeo. On Thursday, The Autry hosts a special performance of the play followed by a conversation with Roger Bergmann, former president of the International Gay Rodeo Association, and Voices of Gay Rodeo Oral History Project team members Rebecca Scofield and Court Fund. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the performance begins at 7. Tickets are $10. More info here.

Macario at Grand Park (November 2) – MFA > On Thursday, Gloria Molina Grand Park concludes their Día de Los Muertos programming with a free screening of the 1960 film Macario, presented in partnership with the GuadaLAjara Film Festival (GLAFF). The film begins at 7:30 p.m. and tickets must be reserved in advance. More info here.

Son Little at Skirball (November 2) – FATP > R&B artist Son Little brings his nationwide tour to Skirball Cultural Center this Thursday for an invigorating performance of songs in promotion of his latest album,  Like Neptune. The show begins at 8 p.m. and is free to attend with RSVP. Plus, there’s free parking too! More info here.

Día de Los Muertos Celebration at the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse (November 2) – FA > On Thursday, the Mission Playhouse invites everyone to a Dia de Los Muertos Celebration from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Mission Playhouse Plaza. Attendees can come together to pay tribute to their departed loved ones through the communal altar adorned with sugar skulls and marigolds. Los Colibri and Ballet Folklorico will perform and a selection of Dia de Los Muertos bites and drinks will be available for purchase, including chocolate caliente and mini pan de muerto. Free to attend. More info here.

Under Pressure at Beyond The Streets (November 3) – FATP > This Friday, a new group show of contemporary airbrush artists curated by L.A. graffiti artist Mister Cartoon opens at Beyond The Streets & Control Gallery at 434 N La Brea Ave. Under Pressure features 16 artists from a wide range of backgrounds, ages, and techniques, showcasing the historic significance and evolution of airbrush as an artistic medium. Friday’s opening reception runs from 7 to 9 p.m., and the works will remain on display through December 23. Free to attend. More info here.

Back to the Valley (November 4) -> This all-day celebration of the San Fernando Valley presented by My Valley Pass comes to Van Nuys City Hall, highlighted by a double-feature film screening La Bamba (1987) and Back To The Future (1985). The event also includes an array of family-friendly entertainment such as live tribute bands, movie cars on display, food trucks, Hot Wheels Racing, a green screen photo booth, and more. Tickets start at $3 for kids (ages 2-12) or $5 for Adults. Runs 2 to 10 p.m. More info here.

On Air Open House (November 4) – FA > Head to dublab for an On Air Open House featuring immersive sound sculptures, installations, mixers, and talks. Programming for the day includes a Foley Performance from Emmy-winner Joanna Fang, a listening station from ‘Ear Hustle,’ and a history of spatial sound with audio technologist KamranV. All free to attend. Runs 2 to 8 p.m. More info here.

Applefest Fall Festival at Benny Boy Brewing (November 4-5) – FA > Benny Boy Brewing welcomes the sweater weather season with a weekend of cider focused fun. Enjoy delicious comfort food from River Street BBQ, Gumbo Boys, Zef BBQ, and Wellie Belly, along with tempting apple pies and cider donuts from Just What I Kneaded and Amiga Amore. Try Benny Boy’s mulled cider, 2023 Pippin Pommeau Part Deux, and take home a Pippin Cider four-pack. Get hands-on at the Community Crush, helping with apple sorting and pressing. Free to attend, this event is for ages 21+. More info here.

Dia de los Muertos Celebration with Self-Help Graphics (November 4) – FATP >  Self Help Graphics Dia de los Muertos celebration includes live music, altars, food and danza blessings, all taking place at Civic Center Park in East LA. Runs 3 to 8 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Anime Pasadena (November 4-5) – M > The fifth annual anime and cosplay event at The Pasadena Convention Center expands its two-day program to offer a wide array of activities, featuring over 350 vendors, more than 45 celebrity guests, music, games, panels, and much more. This year will also feature a ‘Dragon Hall Z,’ offering a free arcade zone, professional photo rooms, a maid café, Anime Fire giveaways, and a main stage. Other activities include a gaming tournament, anime karaoke, a free scavenger hunt, and a diverse artists’ alley. Tickets start at $30. More info here.

Metro Bike Share Community Ride (November 5) – MFATP > This November’s Metro Bike Share Community Ride covers a 4-mile course of public art in Koreatown, taking in several of the distinctive architectural landmarks featured in the neighborhood. Starts at 10 a.m. Free to attend with RSVP. More info here.

Día de los Muertos at the Natural History Museum (November 5) – M > Join the Natural History Museum as they celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a cherished tradition in Mexico and Latin America that honors and remembers departed loved ones. Experience live music, take part in creative art activities, and explore NHM’s thoughtful ofrenda (altar) dedicated to the memory of the departed. Access to the celebration is included in admission. More info here.

Sour to the People at Angel City Brewery (November 5) – MFA > The 4th annual Sour to the People festival will highlight a selection of aged sour brews, straight from Angel Brewery’s cellar, as well as some new releases. There will be continuous live music with bands performing on three different stages throughout the event and plenty of food specials at both Angel City and Truly LA that pair with sour beers.

Literary Death Match (November 8) – FA > The City of West Hollywood and WeHo Reads host a free edition of Literary Death Match, which will be the event series’s first ever show in West Hollywood. More info here.

Inglewood Open Studios (November 11-12) – MFATP > This annual two-day Art Walk takes visitors on self-guided tours of art spaces and exhibition spaces in the City of Inglewood. All galleries will be free to enter, and some will offer special programming and workshops to accompany the art walk. There will also be free shuttle service provided by the city during the two day event. Runs noon to 5 p.m. both days. Get more info here.

Autumn Festival at The Aquarium (November 11-12) – M > Two-day event at The Aquarium of the Pacific celebrating Asian culture through traditional craft demonstrations, music, dance, cultural arts exhibits, and storytelling. Festival activities are included with general admission to the Aquarium, which starts at $44.95 for adults. Get more info here.

Vulture Festival (November 11-12) – M > The Vulture Festival is back for two days of actors in conversation, special screenings and panels, rare performances and workshops. This time the fest takes over NYA studios. Highlights include A Henry Winkler Acting Class, a n advanced screening of Peacock’s Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain and much more. Tickets for individual sessions range from $30 to $45. More info here.

3rd Annual Making Memories Festival (November 12) – M > November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and for the third year in a row Alzheimer’s Los Angeles hosts a special benefit concert at LA State Historic Park to raise funds and awareness for the cause. This year’s festival lineup features with Ozomatli and special guests J.Rocc, Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse, La Misa Negra, and Monalisa. Expect food truck vendors, games, special activities, and an exhibitor area as well. Tickets are $35 in advance online, or $40 day-off. Get more info here.

Railroad Roots at Union Station (November 13) – MFATP > Metro Art and the touring Silkroad Ensemble team up for a free performance at Union Station featuring musical performances by Silkroad Artistic Director Rhiannon Giddens, Silkroad artists Wu Man and Haruka Fujii, and guest artist Pura Fé, as well as a discussion about the railroad, the communities who built it, and the people who were displaced and most affected by it. The event runs 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Ticket Concourse. More info here.

34th Annual Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting (November 15) – FA > Manhattan Beach kicks off the holiday season with a night on the pier featuring live community performances, carolers, and holiday activities including photo ops with live reindeer. Additionally, Roundhouse Aquarium will host an extended hours open house event with a complimentary hot chocolate and cookie station, games, and interactive touch tanks and marine exhibits. Free to attend. Event runs 6 to 9 p.m. More info here.

SPARKLE DTLA Debut (November 16) – MFA > The 2023 edition of the holiday lights installation SPARKLE DTLA at The Bloc kicks with a special live performance, ugly sweater competition, ice sculpture carving, and complimentary holiday treats (hot cocoa!). Opening night runs 5 to 7 p.m., and the lights show will reoccur nightly through December 31. More info here.

Pershing Square Holiday Ice (November 16 – January 7, 2024) – M > The 7,200 square foot skating rink in the heart of DTLA returns for the holiday season. GA tickets, including skate rental, cost $20 for adults. The rink runs daily. More info here.

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L.A. Zoo Lights ( November 17 – January 7, 2023) -> The Los Angeles Zoo’s brightest annual tradition will transform the zoo grounds into a world of light and holiday magic. The after-hours event offers brightly lit displays and festive family-friendly experience every night throughout the entire holiday season. Adult tickets range from $29-$35, depending on the desired date to attend. More info here.

Lightscape at The L.A. Arboretum (November 17, 2023 – January 2, 2024) -> The L.A. Arboretum lights up the holiday season with a one-mile trail of installations and twinkling displays, taking place at the garden after-hours on select dates from November 17 through January 2. GA adult tickets range $29-$35, depending on the date selected for purchase. Get more info here.

L.A. Auto Show (November 17-26) – M > The nation’s top auto show returns to the Los Angeles Convention Center for a ten-day affair featuring a who’s who of automotive exhibitors, plus vehicle test drives, activations, and family-friendly entertainment. Single day tickets start at $24 for adults. Get more info here.

Desire, Knowledge, and Hope (with Smog) at The Broad (November 18 – April 7, 2024) – M > Desire, Knowledge, and Hope (with Smog), the latest exhibition from The Broad’s private collection of 21 Los Angeles-based artists. Named after John Baldessari’s masterpiece ‘Desire, Knowledge, and Hope (with Smog)’ delves into themes that contemplate Los Angeles as a city in constant flux and unrest, as well as addressing societal concerns transcending geographical boundaries. Works on display include Ed Ruscha, Barbara Kruger, Doug Aitken, Lari Pittman, Catherine Opie and Mike Kelley. More info here.

Great Los Angeles Walk ( November 18) – FATP > This longstanding bi-pedal tradition returns with a journey that, for the first time, will include a touchpoint in Griffith Park. The route begins starts at at the Bear Statue just south of Fern Dell, then moves along Franklin Avenue to Fairfax and Western and then back to Griffith Park. Free to participate. Walk starts at 9 a.m. More info here.

Fall Festival in Burbank (November 18) – FA > The Burbank Cultural Arts Commission hosts a Fall Festival at Johnny Carson Park (rescheduled from September 30) featuring food trucks, live performances, art vendors, and an outdoor screening of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. The day-long event runs from 2:15 to 9:15 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.

Complexcon (November 18-19) – M > Complexcon returns to the Long Beach Convention Center for two-day event featuring a food experience curated by First We Feast, a streetwear and sneaker marketplace, plus a live musical performances headlined by Kid Cudi. GA passes for single day attendance start at $115. More info here.

Jackalope Pasadena (November 18-19) – MFA > Indie craft market Jackalope returns to Central Park in Old Pasadena for a two-day, pop-up marketplace with over 200 vendors. Free to attend. Runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. More info here.

Burbank Winter Wine Walk (November 18) -> Celebrate the season with a wine stroll in Downtown Burbank where guests will enjoy wine tasting stations, live entertainment and a street lined with vendors to help you shop for the holidays. Entertainment and the marketplace is free to attend, the wine tasting portion start at $55 a person. More info here.

Renegade Craft (November 18-19) – MFA > Renegade Craft market pops up for a day-two affair at Los Angeles State Historic Park featuring over 200 craft designers, artists, and creative vendors. Runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Free to attend. More info here.

Enchanted: Forest of Light (November 19 – January 7, 2023) -> Descanso Gardens’ annual light is back this November with a range of wondrous, illuminated installations, including a magical “stained glass” creations built in the Rose Garden by contemporary sculptor Tom Fruin. The one-mile walk also features geometric installations from HYBYCOZO on the Main Lawn; Flower Power lights, and sparkling adornments added to Descanso’s Ancient Forest. Adult tickets cost $35-$45 for non-members. More info here.

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Pasadena Doo Dah Parade (November 19) – FA > The Pasadena Doo Dah Parade returns for its 44th edition, featuring an irreverent and oddball cast of characters marching down Colorado Blvd in Old Pasadena. More info here.

Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst The Stars (November 24 to January 1, 2024) – TP > ​​The South Coast Botanic Garden again morphs into a multi-sensory celestial pathway where guests will walk amongst the stars thanks to brilliant lights, cosmic visions, and astral song. Adult tickets start at $35 and there’s an additional fee for parking. More info here. 

Holiday Road (November 24 – December 27)-> Holiday Road returns to King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas for its fourth year, bringing a 1-mile walking trail of immersive scenes and holiday-themed activities for all to enjoy. The experience continues on select dates through December 27. Tickets range from $29.99-$39.99. Get more info here.

3rd Annual 0.3KM Turkey Trot with LA Ale Works (November 25) -> Join LA Ale Works for a quick and fun workout, followed by festivities at Common Space. The race starts at LA Ale Works, ending at Common Space, where 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will be awarded. It’s free to watch and cheer. Only 100 tickets will be available for purchase in advance starting November 1. Each ticket includes a Turkey Trot Race Bib, a branded cup from LA Ale Works and Common Space Brewery, and two beer tickets, valid for a beverage at each brewery. More info here.

The Hollywood Christmas Parade (November 26) – MFA > The Hollywood Christmas Parade brings its annual float-tastic spectacle to the heart of Hollywood on the last Sunday of November. The route takes over portions of Hollywood Blvd, Vine St., and Sunset Blvd. Starts at 6 p.m. Free to attend, but expect a crowd. More info here.

Topanga Vintage Market (November 26) -> Every fourth Sunday of every month at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, the Topanga Vintage Market pops up with close to 200 sellers offering everything from antiques to vintage clothing and local artisan goods. Runs 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Entry is $5. Get more info here.

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