The city of Los Angeles is home to a blend of cultures and traditions, many of which are tied to its status as the home of Hollywood. There are a number of annual events throughout the year for everyone to enjoy, ranging from star-spotting activities to the culturally eclectic.
Below are some of the annual events that have put Los Angeles on the map.
Annual events in Los Angeles
Japanese New Year (January)
Experience Japanese culture and cuisine in LA's Little Tokyo district. From exciting and diverse performers, delectable food stalls and activities for kids, this is a wonderful experience for the whole family. Also known as the Oshogatsu Festival, the celebrations usually take place on the first weekend in January.
Academy Awards (February)
There’s no bigger event in Tinsel Town than the annual Academy Awards, and new residents of LA should head down to the Dolby Theatre, cameras in hand, to catch a glimpse of their favourite movie stars dressed to the nines.
The Los Angeles Marathon (March)
Each year more than 25,000 runners from across the country and beyond come together to experience traffic-free streets in normally congested Los Angeles. The route of this well-loved race passes LA's most famous landmarks and winds through the city's diverse neighbourhoods. The marathon is a great way for fitness fanatics to explore the city while taking in some entertainment en route.
LA Pride Festival and Parade (June)
A celebration of love and tolerance, LA Pride is held across West Hollywood every summer. The event consists of parades, parties and concerts, and anyone regardless of age, gender, race or sexual orientation is welcomed as part of the community at this unique event.
Doo Dah Parade (November)
This parade began as a parody of the Rose Parade where strict rules and regulations bound the event. Today, the Doo Dah Parade boasts a free-for-all attitude with no themes, no judges and no commercials. Each year, thousands of marching groups and acts parade the streets doing and wearing anything they please in this humorous event.