Memorial Day events in Los Angeles

Roam the stalls at this arts festival, sample the fine foods and listen to the music—and then take a dip in the nearby Pacific. Though last year’s capacity restrictions have been ditched, there are a few logistical changes that should hopefully make things feel a bit less crowded: You’ll still find on-the-street stalls and sidewalk vendors along Hermosa and Pier Avenues, but the live music has been moved to the beach while there’s a proper carnival and arts festival inland behind the Hermosa Beach Community Center.

Tucked away in picturesque Topanga Canyon, this Memorial Day weekend festival has become a favorite local tradition. Bohemian residents of all ages as well as curious onlookers converge to celebrate music, food, arts and Mother Earth. Expect plenty of vegan food vendors and healing arts, plus live music, arts and crafts and a quirk parade on Monday morning.

For one day only, much of Main Street in Santa Monica will transform into an interactive Monopoly board game, allotting attendees “MAINopoly dollars” to be exchanged for food tastings across the street’s finest establishments. Trade a couple fake bucks for dishes from spots like Crudo e Nudo, Stella Barra, Jameson’s Pub and Sweet Rose Creamery, or add on a couple of drinks in the “Go to Jail” VIP lounge and beer garden. Dressing up is encouraged, so polish up that Monopology moncole.

After a short-lived stint in the early spring, UCLA’s impressively student-run fest has returned to its Memorial Day roots. Though the fest promises the same vibe—which, in the past, was definitely the most 4/20-friendly of the pre-summer festivals—its two days have been pruned down into one. Gone are the dedicated jam band and reggae days; instead you can expect a more streamlined show.