Best Things to Do This Weekend in South LA County (Long Beach, Torrance & More) — Jan 9–11, 2026

What’s Happening This Weekend (South Los Angeles County Events Guide)

Looking for fun things to do this weekend in South Los Angeles County? From anime fandom in Long Beach to cultural celebrations in Torrance, Jan 9–11, 2026 is packed with exciting events — perfect for friends, families, and date nights. Whether you’re attending one of the biggest anime conventions on the West Coast or celebrating the Lunar New Year, our guide helps you plan the best local weekend outings in Long Beach, Torrance, Inglewood area and surrounding South LA cities. Don’t miss out on these must-see events happening right here in Los Angeles County this weekend!

📌 Animé Los Angeles 21

Location: Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center — 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802
Day: Fri Jan 9 – Sun Jan 11, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closes at 5:00 PM Sunday) 
Tickets: Badges required — available as 1-day or full-event passes (purchase online or at the door) 
Why Go: One of Southern California’s biggest anime conventions returns this weekend, with cosplay showcases, panels, gaming rooms, artist alleys, fashion shows, and more for fans of anime, manga, and pop culture. It’s ideal for creatives, families, and local culture enthusiasts wanting to dive into a vibrant community gathering. 

🧧 2026 Torrance Lunar New Year Festival

Location: Torrance Cultural Arts Center — 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance, CA 90503
Day: Sunday, Jan 11, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Festival), 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM (Torrance Chinese American Lunar New Year Show) 
Tickets: Festival is free and open to all; show inside Armstrong Theatre requires a ticket ($50) 
Why Go: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with cultural performances, lion dancing, family activities, authentic food vendors, arts & crafts, and community fun. Perfect for a daytime outing with family and friends. 

🌆 Downtown Long Beach Nightlife & Lounge Vibes

Location: Downtown Long Beach nightlife spots (various venues)
Day: Fri Jan 9 – Sun Jan 11, 2026
Time: Evenings / Night
Tickets: Vary by venue
Why Go: After the daytime convention vibes, Long Beach’s downtown offers adult-friendly nightlife options — from house music nights to social lounges and food-centric gatherings that bring the city’s vibrant nightlife to life. (Regular bar/nightlife schedules; check specific venues for cover/times) 

📚 Local Inglewood Indoor Activities & Community Spots

Location: Inglewood Public Library, Crenshaw-Imperial Branch – 11141 Crenshaw Blvd, Inglewood, CA  90303
Day: Sat Jan 10, 2026
Time: Library open hours (all day) 
Tickets: Free
Why Go: Low-key and family-friendly, Inglewood library spaces often host workshops, reading sessions, and community game lounges — great for inexpensive weekend outings or rainy day alternatives. 

📣 Weekend Tips

• Plan Early: Big events like Animé LA draw large crowds — arrive before peak hours for the best experience.

• Family-Friendly: The Lunar New Year Festival in Torrance is great for all ages with free access to most activities. 

• Nightlife Options: Downtown Long Beach has something for everyone post-sunset — from live music to social mixers. 

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