My Picks for Memorial Day in Los Angeles 2016

Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer here in L.A. and there is no shortage of festivals, parades, and fairs for you to attend. So, throw on some flip-flops and grab the biggest most colorful pair of sunglasses you can find and head to one of these great parties!

Jazz Reggae Festival

Are you in the mood for a little music this Memorial Day? Head on over to UCLA for the 30th annual Jazz Reggae Festival. This festival is fun for the whole family and includes tasty food, inspiring art, and of course, live music. Different booths will be set up with crafts, Henna tattoos, and live art demonstrations. Some of the featured artists this year will include X Is The Weapon, Stoopdown Photography, and Andrew Dupas- I am not hip enough to know who any of these bands are but I’m sure it will be fun! Bring a blanket, your shades, and your dancing shoes for a fun-filled afternoon. Tickets are $20 for the public, and kids 5 years and under get in for free. Doors open at 11:00am and events take place from 12:00pm-6:00pm. Check out www.jazzreggaefest.com for more information.

The Geeky Craft Faire

Do you anxiously await Sunday nights so you can watch the latest installment of Game of Thrones? Do you have kids that can quote you lines from Harry Potter or have ringtones set to theme music from Lord of the Rings? If so, you should consider spending part of your Memorial Day weekend at the Geeky Craft Faire at Whimsic Alley, located just 2 miles outside of historic Larchmont Village. Whimsic Alley is a locally owned business that specializes in all things fandom. In just the past 3 months alone they have hosted an Outlander Dinner, a Feast of Thrones, and a Time Travel Craft Fair. This weekend’s Geeky Craft Faire supports local artists and crafters who create everything from jewelry and clothing to kitchen supplies and stationary. The Geeky Craft Faire will take place May 28th and 29th from 10:00am-6:00pm and May 30th from 11:00am-6:00pm at 5464 Wilshire Boulevard. Check out Whimsic Alley on Facebook for a sneak peak at the vendors! 

Clifton’s Canteen

If you and that special someone in your life are looking for a fun evening out that also pays tribute to the men and women who give meaning to Memorial Day, look no further than Clifton’s Canteen. Creating Arts Studios has paired with Clifton’s to produce an extravagant throwback USO party on Sunday night, the 29th. The evening will feature dancing and drinks, and you are encouraged to dress up in your best 1940's gear to join in on the fun. The party will last from 7:00pm-10:00pm at Clifton’s Downtown. Tickets are $10. Visit https://www.cacstudios.com/uso/ for more info!