Various locations in L.A.

LA Compost’s annual autumnal event gives “smashing pumpkins” a whole new—and very literal—meaning. Now that Halloween is over, you likely have at least one pumpkin rotting on your doorstep. Did you know that trashing it and sending it to the landfill releases methane, which contributes to global warming? Instead of adding your jack-o’-lantern to the 1.3 billion pounds of yearly pumpkin waste, bring it (as long as its free of paint, glitter or anything else nonorganic) to one of these composting parties to help nourish the earth. Check here for the different locations and to sign up.

Those eager to get a run in on Thanksgiving morning but not eager to drive Downtown can register for Drumstick Dash, which takes place in the Valley and touts itself as the city’s largest Thanksgiving 5K/10K run. Runners, joggers and walkers will make their way through the NoHo Arts District starting at 8:30am to a soundtrack of cheering bystanders and spinning DJs. Kids can get in on the fun, too, with the Lil’ Gobblers Race at 7:45am, and early birds can compete in the dance contest (7am) or costume contest (7:15pm). It all kicks off at the intersection of Lankershim and Chandler Boulevards in North Hollywood. All proceeds will help Hope the Mission provide meals to the homeless.  

Like an Angelyne billboard on Sunset Boulevard, the Hollywood Christmas Parade is an essential part of L.A. kitsch. The nine-decade-old parade will feature floats, balloons, marching bands, equestrians and celebrities (of a sort) as they ride in a U-shaped route that begins at Hollywood and Orange and ends up at Sunset and Orange. Reserved grandstand seats can be purchased, with proceeds going to Toys for Tots, but free curbside seating is also available.

Downtown Burbank shuts down its main thoroughfare to car traffic for this biannual arts festival, curated by indie artisan marketplace Jackalope. Over 200 local hand-selected artisans will fill San Fernando Boulevard from Magnolia Boulevard to Angeleno Avenue. Shop art and photography, one-of-a-kind glass goods and ceramics, original fashion and jewelry, paper goods, home decor, tasty treats and more. You’ll also find live music and activities for kids like ornament-making and face-painting. And unlike some artisan markets, Jackalope offers free admission.

Get ready: In 2028, Los Angeles will host the Summer Olympic Games. After initially vying for a bid in 2024, L.A. was awarded the ’28 Games back in 2017.