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Free weekend: 5 cheap ways to enjoy LA around Independence Day
BERLIN - JULY 04: Fireworks explode behind the U.S. flag hanging from the front facade of the new U.S. embassy at the official opening ceremony and celebration of the embassy on July 4, 2008 in Berlin, Germany. Architectural critics claim the embassy, designed by American architect Moore Ruble Yudell, offers little in architectural innovation or design. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)
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Hang with funk legends, see life-size Lego designs and visit our country's largest Asian night market. Just because the Fourth has passed, it doesn’t mean the fun needs to end.
Take a look at these five local events. What will you be doing this weekend? Let us know in the comments below!
1. Life-size Lego creations in Glendale
New-York based artist Nathan Sawaya creates awesome art made from unusual things. His latest exhibit, "Art of the Brick" shows life-size sculptures made from Lego bricks. It's all "free" at the Forest Lawn Museum.
When: 10 a.m to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday
Where: Forest Lawn Museum in Glendale | MAP
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Price: Free
2. A young Bill Murray wants you to watch Stripes
Join a young Bill Murray, the indy pop sounds of The Steelwells, and an army of food trucks at downtown L.A. State Historic Park for a viewing of "Stripes." The Cold War hijnks get underway at 5:30 Saturday.
When: 5:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday
Where: L.A. State Historic Park | MAP
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Price: $10 | Tickets
Join Southland funk legends Shuggie Otis, Parliament-Funkadelic founder Bernie Worrell, Charles Wright and the Watts 103rd St. Rhythm Band, and many more for the annual Long Beach Funkfest. Sadly, the festival is no longer a free thang, but where else can you see a promenade full of the funk of July plus a Freedom of Funk fireworks show?
When: noon to 11 p.m. Saturday
Where: Downtown Long Beach Promenade & Broadway | MAP
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Price: $15 before; $20 at the door | Tickets
4. Eat Asian food at the 626 Night Market
Night markets are a staple of Asian societies and are becoming a part of northeast Los Angeles nightlife. Named in honor of the 626 area code, this is the largest Asian night market in the U.S., featuring over 150 local restaurants, artists and musicians.
When: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Saturday; 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday
Where: Santa Anita Park | MAP
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Price: $2 to $3
5. Watch races and fireworks at Irwindale Speedway
Watch a NASCAR race followed by a spectacular fireworks show. The event will feature the
NASCAR Lucas Oil Late Models, Progressive Painting Trucks and the Pick Your Part Skid Plate Cars. The first 2000 attendees will receive American flags.
When: Gates open at 5 p.m.; races start at 7 p.m. Saturday
Where: Irwindale Event Center | MAP
Cost: $15 for adults; $5 for kids; free for 5-years-old and under
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