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Have a fantastically free weekend: 5 things to do outdoors
Thousands walk through Old Pasadena to taste dishes from all over Asia at last year's 626 Night Market.
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Mae Ryan/KPCC
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Forget June gloom. This weekend offers a whole series of ways to beat the summer lethargy -- from a citywide block party in Downtown L.A., to an Asia-inspired night market in Arcadia, we offer a few free possibilities for your day off.
Take a look and let us know your weekend plans in comments below.
The city of L.A. is hosting a Friday night farewell to outgoing mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and a welcoming to his successor, Eric Garcetti. Former pres Bill Clinton will be on hand to mark the transition, along with a cast of celebrities including Ryan Seacrest and the L.A. Galaxy. Pepe Aguilar is scheduled to take the stage along with Mariachi el Zacatecano at 9 p.m. In between there will be cooking demonstrations, a thumbprint mural, a photo booth and a flock of food trucks. Nachos are on the house.
When: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday
Where: Grand Park, City Hall steps [Map]
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2. Stroll the 626 Night Market
This weekend marks the return of the successful 626 night market, "the largest Asian night market in the U.S." See local art and stumble across street performances while sampling foods from across Asia and L.A. In its second year, the 626 night-time event promises to be packed, so come early and come hungry.
When: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Saturday; 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday
Where: The Santa Anita Racetrack in Arcadia [Map]
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3. Get inspired at the Art on Millionaire's Row Festival
Browse rows of handcrafted jewelry, paintings and photography displayed by local artists at this annual festival hosted by Friends of the Altadena Library. The daylong event will feature dozens of area artists, musicians and an art show and contest along with food from Altadena’s local restaurants. A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit the Altadena Public Library.
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday
Where: Altadena Public Library; 600 East Mariposa St., Altadena, CA 91001
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Downey's celebration of local music makers features an eclectic series of sets. From ukulele to choir chorus and from blue grass to hip hop, local artists will play at six locations across the city Saturday.
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; See a full list of locations and performances here.
Where: Various spots around Downey; Click here for info.
5. Sneak a peek of the new Rose Bowl
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The Rose Bowl Stadium will open its doors to the public for a special look inside its new Pavilion, the jewel of the 90-year-old landmark’s renovation. The open house marks the first public viewing of the Pavilion since it was completed. The $181 million renovation also included a new video board and reconstruction of its vintage scoreboard.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday
Where: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr Pasadena, CA 91103
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