THE CITY

has hosted legendary musicians and performers for over 100 years.

The 2023 summer season includes classical Tuesday and Thursday performances by the world-renowned L.A. Philharmonic. Other nights the Bowl hosts the KCRW Festival and Sunday Sunset concerts, the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival, and headliners such as Janet Jackson, Louis Tomlinson, and Kool & the Gang. Experience Harry Potter like never before as Deathly Hallows Part 2 is screened while a live orchestra plays the score or watch a fireworks spectacular light up the sky during a Beach Boys concert.

Before the show begins, take time to enjoy the shady picnic areas surrounding the venue. Bring your own food and drinks or purchase a picnic box from the on-site Plaza Marketplace. If you’re looking to splurge, reserve a private box and have a three-course meal delivered to your seats. Or climb the stairs to a bench seat and take in the awesome view of the elaborate bandshell nestled in the Hollywood Hills. hollywoodbowl.com

You’ll find classic movie theater treats like popcorn, candy, and soda for sale as well as cocktails, wine, and beer at the rooftop bar. As the sun sets and the film flickers to life onscreen, put on the provided pair of wireless headphones to fully immerse yourself in the action.

In the mood to sing along, laugh out loud, swoon in your seat, or scream with horror? You’ll find a curated selection of films on the schedule every night. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance, they sell out fast. rooftopcinemaclub.com/ los-angeles

Hollywood Bowl

TAKE PART IN a piece of music history at the Hollywood Bowl. This iconic outdoor venue, with phenomenal acoustics and breathtaking views,

Shakespeare Festival at the Old Zoo in Griffith Park IMMERSE YOURSELF IN the enchanting works of Shakespeare during this well-loved, family-friendly festival. In the middle of the Old Zoo Grounds, where abandoned animal enclosures from the original L.A. Zoo have been reclaimed by nature, talented performers from the Independent Shakespeare Company take the stage.

The community-based theater company puts on the annual festival for free, dedicated to making live theater accessible to all. This year, the festival begins on Wednesday, July 5 with Julius Caesar, followed by A Midsummer Night’s Dream beginning on August 9. Come early for pre-show workshops about the history of Shakespearean theater as well as theme nights and educational talks. The festival also offers sign-language-interpreted performances. Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets or beach chairs as well as food to share with friends and family. iscla.org

Dance DTLA at the Music Center LEAVE YOUR WORRIES behind and join in this inclusive and lively dance party under the stars. The Music Center is one of the largest performing arts centers in the country, offering ways to take part in the city’s rich cultural heritage. One of the center’s crown jewels is Jerry Moss Plaza—named for the A&M record producer—a magical outdoor space with gardens and city views that hosts popular programs like Dance DTLA.

This free public celebration takes place every Friday from June 23 to August 18. The plaza transforms into a dance floor and a professional instructor leads the crowd in a beginner-friendly lesson. This year’s dance styles include hip-hop, salsa, country line dancing, disco, Bollywood, and more. After the lesson, a DJ takes over and the floor opens up, giving you a chance to show off your new moves. musiccenter.org

Jazz at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

CELEBRATE JAZZ EVERY Friday evening at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). A beloved institution on the L.A. jazz scene, the weekly concert series has been running for over 25 years and is recognized for preserving the legacy of the genre as well as promoting jazz education. Performances feature a wide range of jazz styles, traditional and contemporary, and showcase both established and up-and-coming musicians.

The concerts take place in the museum’s beautiful outdoor plaza located behind artist Chris Burden’s famous Urban Light installation, providing a casual and intimate atmosphere for music lovers. Bring something to sit on and snack on and settle in for an exciting show. lacma.org

Off the 405 at the Getty

RELAX AND LISTEN to live music in a picturesque environment of tranquil gardens and fountains, a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life below. Situated on a hilltop in Brentwood, the Getty Museum is an architectural masterpiece with a stunning collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

The free summer Saturday concert series Off the 405 hosts an eclectic lineup of indie musicians on an outdoor stage. This year’s lineup does not disappoint, featuring performances by experimental musician Spellling, Saharan rock band Etran de L’Air, jazz musician Makaya McCraven, multidisciplinary artist Rahill, and British poet and saxophonist Alabaster DePlume.

Food and beverage offerings from gourmet food trucks and an on-site bar are available for purchase. You may also bring your own picnic. Make a day of it by exploring the museum’s extensive art collection before the show. getty.edu

Grand Performances at California Plaza

GATHER IN THE California Plaza, a mixed-use complex with a water court and a stage with amphitheater-style seating for summer nights filled with music, art, poetry, theater, and dance parties. The annual summer series lives up to its slogan, “Always Grand, Always Free” with an impressive, all-ages show on Saturday nights through September. The event has been a staple of the L.A. arts scene for nearly four decades and is committed to celebrating diversity, promoting cultural understanding, and creating a sense of community through the arts.

Arrive early to snag a spot on the lawn or claim a seat in the amphitheater seating next to the stage. grandperformances.org