Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is a vibrant hub of culture, entertainment, and innovation. Known as the entertainment capital of the world, it’s no surprise that LA is home to some of the most iconic venues and a calendar packed with events that cater to every interest. From the roar of the crowd at a Dodgers game to the soulful melodies of a Hollywood Bowl concert, Los Angeles offers an unparalleled array of experiences. Whether you’re a local looking for the next big thing or a visitor eager to soak in the city’s dynamic culture, LA has something for everyone.

Major Event Venues in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to some of the most iconic and versatile venues in the world. These spaces not only host major events but also contribute to the city’s cultural and economic vibrancy. Below, we take a closer look at some of the biggest and most notable venues.

Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC)

• Description: The Los Angeles Convention Center is one of the largest and most versatile event spaces in the city, spanning over 720,000 square feet of exhibition space and 147,000 square feet of meeting space. Located in the heart of downtown LA, it’s a premier destination for conventions, trade shows, and exhibitions. Its modern facilities, sustainable practices, and proximity to hotels, restaurants, and entertainment make it a top choice for event planners.

• Types of Events: The LACC hosts a wide range of events, from industry conferences to consumer expos. One of its most popular annual events is the Anime Expo, which attracts over 100,000 attendees each year to celebrate Japanese pop culture with cosplay, panels, concerts, and more. In July 2025, the Anime Expo will once again take over the center, offering a vibrant showcase of anime and manga culture.

• Why It’s Significant: The LACC’s central location and massive capacity make it ideal for large-scale events. Its ability to host international and domestic gatherings across various industries underscores its importance to LA’s event scene. Learn more.

Dodger Stadium

• Description: Home to the Los Angeles Dodgers since 1962, Dodger Stadium is a historic venue with a seating capacity of over 56,000. Nestled in the hills of Elysian Park, it offers stunning views and a sense of history that resonates with sports fans and concert-goers alike.

• Types of Events: While baseball is its primary focus, Dodger Stadium also hosts concerts and special events. In July 2025, fans can look forward to a unique concert by My Chemical Romance, who will perform their iconic album The Black Parade in full, showcasing the stadium’s versatility beyond sports.

• Why It’s Significant: Dodger Stadium is more than just a sports venue; it’s a cultural landmark where legends are made. Its ability to transform from a baseball field to a concert stage makes it a beloved and versatile space. Learn more.

Crypto.com Arena

• Description: Formerly known as Staples Center, Crypto.com Arena is a multi-purpose arena with a capacity of around 19,067 for basketball, 18,340 for ice hockey, and approximately 20,000 for concerts. Located in downtown LA’s L.A. Live complex, it’s home to the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers, Kings, and Sparks.

• Types of Events: Beyond sports, Crypto.com Arena hosts concerts, awards shows, and other entertainment events. It’s the annual venue for the Grammy Awards and has welcomed performances by artists like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. While specific July 2025 events aren’t listed, the arena is likely to host concerts and other high-profile events during the month.

• Why It’s Significant: Its central location, state-of-the-art facilities, and ability to host a variety of events make it a cornerstone of LA’s entertainment scene. Its role in the L.A. Live complex adds to its appeal as a one-stop destination for dining, entertainment, and events. Learn more.

Hollywood Bowl

• Description: The Hollywood Bowl is an iconic outdoor amphitheater nestled in the Hollywood Hills, with a capacity of around 17,500. Its distinctive band shell, designed by Frank Gehry, is a visual landmark, and the venue is known for its summer concert series from June to September. Picnicking is a cherished tradition, with attendees bringing their own food or ordering from the venue’s acclaimed culinary program.

• Types of Events: The Hollywood Bowl hosts a diverse lineup of musical performances, including classical music by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, jazz, pop, and rock. In July 2025, the lineup includes the Earth, Wind & Fire Fireworks Spectacular, Diana Ross, and John Fogerty. The Bowl is also famous for its July 4th celebration, featuring fireworks and patriotic music.

• Why It’s Significant: The Hollywood Bowl offers a unique blend of world-class music and a relaxed, social atmosphere. Its natural setting and history of hosting legends like The Beatles make it a must-visit venue. Learn more.

The Greek Theatre

• Description: Located in Griffith Park, The Greek Theatre is another legendary outdoor venue with a capacity of around 5,900. Its intimate yet grand setting offers stunning views of the city and excellent acoustics.

• Types of Events: The Greek Theatre hosts a variety of musical performances, from rock and pop to comedy and theater. While specific July 2025 events aren’t detailed, it’s a popular spot for summer concerts and special events.

• Why It’s Significant: Its historic charm and natural setting make it a favorite among artists and audiences. It’s a place where you can enjoy a concert under the stars with a sense of community and history. Learn more.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

• Description: Designed by Frank Gehry, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece with a seating capacity of around 2,265. It’s the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and a hub for classical music and other performances.

• Types of Events: The hall primarily hosts classical music concerts, jazz performances, and other orchestral events. It’s a go-to venue for those seeking a refined cultural experience.

• Why It’s Significant: Its stunning design and world-class acoustics make it one of the premier concert halls globally. It’s a symbol of LA’s commitment to the arts and a magnet for top-tier musicians. Learn more.

The Music Center

• Description: The Music Center is a performing arts complex that includes the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Mark Taper Forum, and Ahmanson Theatre. It’s the heart of LA’s theater and performing arts scene, hosting a wide range of productions.

• Types of Events: The complex presents theater, dance, opera, and musicals. The Center Theatre Group, based here, produces everything from classic plays to contemporary works.

• Why It’s Significant: As one of the largest performing arts centers in the country, it plays a crucial role in LA’s cultural landscape. It’s a place where both local and international artists showcase their talent. Learn more.

Other Notable Venues

• SoFi Stadium: The state-of-the-art home of the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, it also hosts major concerts, like the George Strait and Chris Stapleton show in July 2025. Learn more.

• Kia Forum: A historic venue that has hosted legends and continues to be a top spot for concerts. Learn more.

• Pantages Theatre: Known for Broadway shows and touring productions, offering a taste of New York’s theater scene in LA. Learn more.

• The Broad Stage: A venue for innovative performing arts in Santa Monica, focusing on dance, theater, and music. Learn more.

Types of Events in Los Angeles

Los Angeles’ event calendar is a reflection of its cultural diversity and vibrant energy. From sports to arts, there’s something for everyone. Below, we break down the major types of events that keep LA buzzing.

Sports Events

Los Angeles is a sports powerhouse with a passionate fan base. The city is home to several major league teams:

Beyond regular season games, LA hosts special sporting events like the LA Marathon and college sports championships. The city’s sports venues are not just places to watch games but also to experience the electric atmosphere of live sports.

Concerts and Music Festivals

Music is the lifeblood of LA, with venues catering to every genre:

• Outdoor Venues: Hollywood Bowl, The Greek Theatre.

• Arenas: Crypto.com Arena, Kia Forum.

• Intimate Venues: The Roxy, The Troubadour, Whisky a Go Go.

Festivals are a major draw:

• Coachella: Held in Indio but closely associated with LA, it’s a global music festival.

• Warped Tour: Returning in July 2025 at Downtown Long Beach Shoreline Waterfront, featuring emo and rock acts.

• Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival: Part of the Bowl’s summer season, showcasing jazz legends.

Theater and Performing Arts

LA’s theater scene is diverse and vibrant:

• The Music Center: Hosts a variety of productions, from musicals to plays.

• Geffen Playhouse: Known for contemporary plays in Westwood.

• Ahmanson Theatre: Large-scale musicals and plays.

• Mark Taper Forum: Focuses on new works and smaller productions.

Dance companies like the Los Angeles Ballet and opera at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion add to the city’s artistic offerings.

Film and Television Events

As the entertainment capital, LA hosts numerous film-related events:

• Academy Awards: Held at the Dolby Theatre, a global celebration of film.

• Golden Globe Awards: At the Beverly Hilton, honoring film and TV.

• Film Premieres: Often at TCL Chinese Theatre or Dolby Theatre.

• Film Festivals: Like the Los Angeles Film Festival, showcasing independent films.

Cultural Festivals and Celebrations

LA’s cultural diversity is celebrated through various festivals:

• LA Chinatown Firecracker Festival: A vibrant Lunar New Year celebration.

• Día de los Muertos: Honoring the dead with colorful festivities.

• Hollywood Christmas Parade: A holiday tradition with floats and celebrities.

• Anime Expo: A major event for anime and manga enthusiasts, held at the LACC.

Conventions and Trade Shows

The LACC and other venues host major conventions:

• Anime Expo: July 3-6, 2025, attracting over 100,000 fans.

• WonderCon: A comic and pop culture convention, complementing nearby Comic-Con International in San Diego.

Spotlight on July 2025

July 2025 in Los Angeles promises to be packed with exciting events, showcasing the city’s vibrant event scene. Here are some highlights:

• Music Concerts:

  • My Chemical Romance at Dodger Stadium, performing The Black Parade in full, a nostalgic treat for rock fans.

  • George Strait and Chris Stapleton at SoFi Stadium, delivering a night of country classics.

  • Earth, Wind & Fire at the Hollywood Bowl for the Fireworks Spectacular, a July 4th tradition.

  • Diana Ross and John Fogerty at the Hollywood Bowl, offering a mix of soul and rock.

• Festivals:

  • Warped Tour at Downtown Long Beach Shoreline Waterfront, featuring top emo and rock acts.

  • Anime Expo at the LACC (July 3-6), celebrating Japanese pop culture with over 100,000 attendees.

• Theater and Performing Arts:

  • Independent Shakespeare Co. at Griffith Park, performing Love’s Labour’s Lost on Wednesdays through Sundays.

  • Various productions at The Music Center, Pantages Theatre, and other venues.

• 4th of July Celebrations:

  • Fireworks displays across the city, including a spectacular show at the Hollywood Bowl.

These events highlight the diversity and excitement of LA’s event calendar, offering something for every interest.

Why Los Angeles is a Hub for Events

Several factors make Los Angeles an ideal location for events:

• Climate: The mild, sunny weather allows for year-round outdoor events, from concerts at the Hollywood Bowl to festivals in Griffith Park.

• Infrastructure: World-class venues, extensive transportation networks, and proximity to hotels and dining make LA a convenient destination.

• Cultural Diversity: As a melting pot of cultures, LA hosts events that celebrate its diverse communities, from Nisei Week in Little Tokyo to Día de los Muertos.

• Entertainment Industry: The presence of film, TV, and music industries brings glamour and star power to events, attracting global attention.

In Short

Los Angeles is more than just a city; it’s an experience. From the thrill of a Lakers game to the enchantment of a Hollywood Bowl concert, LA’s events offer a window into its soul. Whether you’re planning a visit or looking for local excitement, the city’s calendar is always filled with possibilities. In July 2025, you can catch iconic concerts, vibrant festivals, and cultural celebrations that showcase LA’s unique energy. So, dive in, explore, and let Los Angeles surprise you with its endless array of events.