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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.

KPCC Archive

Have a fantastic Father's Day: 5 cheap things to do with dad in LA

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Stressed about what to buy dad for Father's Day? Ditch the gift he'll never use and invite pops to one of these five near-free events. Activities include exploring the streets of downtown L.A., celebrating Irish culture and attending free outdoor concerts. 

Take a look, and let us know your weekend plans in comments below. 


1. Celebrate literature and Irish tradition

Listen to live Irish music, eat traditional fare and enjoy a Guinness happy hour during Hammer Museum’s fourth annual Bloomsday event. This year's celebration pays ode to Irish writer James Joyce with actors slated to read dramatic scenes from his novel Ulysses

When: 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday

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Where: Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90024 | MAP

Price: Free 


2. See the world's largest display of chalk art 

Catch a glimpse of the largest street painting event in the world at Pasadena Chalk Festival this weekend. Approximately 600 visual artists from around SoCal will adorn the streets with intricate chalk designs. Pro tip: Stop by Sunday when most of the artists are putting on finishing touches to view the completed masterpieces. Expect live music and family art-making opportunities, as well. 

When: 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

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Where: Paseo Colorado, 280 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA | MAP

Price: Free


3. Explore DTLA's history and culture

As a part of the Los Angeles Design Festival (LADF), the L.A. Conservancy will host a"Modern Skyline Tour" Saturday exploring DTLA's design from architecture to public art. Tour guides will share stories of the financial district's transformation while walking 1.5 miles of Bunker Hill's plazas and skyscrapers. 

When: 2 p.m. Saturday

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Where: Pershing Square | MAP

Price: Tickets are $10 for the general public; $5 for Conservancy members; $5 for kids 12 or under


4. Catch a classic flick outdoors 

Eat|See|Hear's summer-long celebration of food, movies and music comes to L.A. State Historic Park Saturday with a viewing of Brad Pitt's Fight Club. Here's a look at what to expect: 

Enjoy food from local trucks including Currywurst, The Melt Bus, Coolhaus and Crepe de Ville. DJ Neil Schield from Origami Vinyl will spin music beforehand, and there'll be free treats available for dogs. 

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When: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; music at 7 p.m.; movie at 8:30 p.m.

Where: L.A. State Historic Park, 1245 North Spring St.; enter on Spring Street | MAP

Price: $10 Advance General Admission; $12 At the Door (cash or credit); $8 Kids under 12


5. Enjoy a pair of free concerts at the Levitt Pavilions

Levitt Pavilion is kicking off its season of free outdoor concerts at its parks in Pasadena and MacArthur Park this weekend. And as Off Ramp's John Rabe points out, this will be the first time acclaimed songwriter Jimmy Webb will actually perform his song “MacArthur Park” at MacArthur Park. After seeing Webb perform Saturday, head over to the Pasadena location Sunday for jazz music with the Jazz Leaders. 

When: Festival begins at 6:30 Saturday; 5:30 p.m. Sunday 

Where: MacArthur Park Saturday | MAP; Memorial Park Pasadena Sunday | MAP

Price: Free 

Did we miss something? Share it on our Facebook page or let us know in comments. You can also loop us in on upcoming events here.

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