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Weekend Events: 8 great things to do in Southern California

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A burst of April showers is in store for the weekend ahead, but there is far too much going on around town to stay inside under the covers. Stock up on homemade goods, get amped for baseball season and laugh all night long — here's the rundown. 


1. Pop-Up Magazine

https://twitter.com/LA_mag/status/717946513364688896

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Hear true stories about the world around us in this live magazine event that blends storytelling, photos, video, radio and music. The cast might include best-selling authors, Oscar-winning filmmakers and public radio personalities — who you can chat with over drinks after the show. The event will not be recorded so you'll have to catch it live. Pro Tip: Act quick. Only $25 tickets are left.

When: Thursday, April 7, 7:30 p.m. 

Where: Ace Hotel | MAP

Price: Tickets are $25 plus fees


2. "You're killing me, smalls!"

Sandlot

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With a new season of America’s great pastime underway, you might be craving hot dogs, salted peanuts and the smell of freshly cut grass. If the weekend rain is keeping you from the field, get your fill at a screening of “The Sandlot.” Arrive early to check out the new exhibit “Chasing Dreams: Baseball and Becoming American,” play oversized games and enjoy happy hour. Pro Tip: Sport your favorite baseball team’s attire and you could score some swag.

When: Friday, April 8, 8:30 p.m.

Where: Skirball Cultural Center | MAP

Price: Free


3. Artisanal L.A.

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Shop home goods and taste the gourmet wares of more than 150 local vendors peddling s’mores, pickles, paleo granola and more. You can also catch workshops on weaving, gardening, kombucha-making, beard oil, bone broth and more. A pop-up farm will be on hand so you can snap a selfie with a goat. Pro tip: Parking at The Reef is $15 but street parking is free on Sunday.

When: Saturday, April 9 - Sunday, April 10, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Where: The Reef | MAP 

Price: Tickets are $10 online, $15 at-the-door


4. Streets of Long Beach

Streets of LB

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Start your engines! Cars will race through Long Beach this weekend to kick off Formula DRIFT's racing season, which leads into next week's Toyota Grand Prix. Rain or shine, the race will go on. 

When: Friday, April 8 - Saturday April 9 | Event Schedule 

Where: Long Beach Convention Center and various locations in Long Beach | MAP 

Price: 2-day tickets are $45 | Tickets 


5. Protect Our Planet Family Day

A homemade bird feeder.
A homemade bird feeder.
(
Megan via Flickr
)

Earth day is approaching and the Japanese American National Museum hosts a family festival to help you and your kiddos think green. Children will have the chance to decorate their own re-useable grocery bags, make a bird feeder, create traditional Mexican art with recycled paper and listen to eco-friendly stories. Event times vary so check the schedule

When: Saturday, April 9, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Where: Japanese American National Museum | MAP

Price: Free


6. Overnight comedy festival 

Check it out

Work on developing that six-pack by laughing along with a lineup of standup, improv and sketch comedians. There will be three different stages featuring music, dancing and morning-after yoga. This event is 21-plus. Pro Tip: Watch Big Fire's video on what to pack if you want to bring the right camping supplies.

When: Saturday, April 9, noon - Sunday, April 10, 2 p.m.

Where: East Walker Ranch | MAP

Price: General admission is $30


7. L.A. Times Festival of Books

Books!

Authors and bookworms from around the world will celebrate the written word. Buy books, meet your favorite authors and check out various panel discussions and special events. General admission and outdoor programming is free but events like Literary Death Match and an appearance by musician/writer/"Portlandia" star Carrie Brownstein cost extra.

When: Saturday, April 9 - Sunday April 10 | Event Schedule 

Where: USC campus, multiple locations

Price: Free


8. Session Beer Fest

beer fest

If you can’t splurge at LA Beer Fest check out this celebration of brews from Eagle Rock Brewery, Arts District, Three Weavers, Angel City and other crafters. $18 admission gets you a glass and three beers. Eagle Rock Public House and vegan fave Plant Food For People will be serving up grub. Tickets available at the door only.

When: Sunday, April 10, noon - 6 p.m.

Where: Eagle Rock Brewery | MAP

Price: Tickets are $18


What'd we miss? Let us know on Twitter @kellie_gal, @JessicaHamlinB and @LeoHasACat.

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