What’s Happening This Weekend in South LA County & Long Beach (September 19–21)

by Maiyah Jimenez

Looking for something fun this weekend? From haunted attractions to live music, festivals, and shopping, South LA and Long Beach have plenty going on. Whether you're planning a night out or family time, here are some great local picks.

🎷 Central Ave. Jazz Festival

Location: Leimert Park, South LA
Day & Time: Saturday, Sept 20 | 12 PM – 8 PM
Tickets: Free
A full day of jazz under the sun, food trucks, local artists, vendors, and community vibes in one of LA’s cultural hubs.

👻 Dark Harbor at the Queen Mary

Location: Queen Mary, Long Beach
Day & Time: Friday, Sept 19 | 7:00 PM – 11:59 PM
Tickets: Admission fees apply; purchase in advance is recommended.
Enter if you dare: haunted mazes, themed bars and lounges, performers, spooky eats. A perfect autumn kickoff.

🎟️ Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!

Location: Long Beach Terrace Theater, 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach
Day & Time: Friday, Sept 19 | Showtimes during the day (check venue schedule)
Tickets: Paid tickets; check online for pricing.
A fun, family-friendly live show with music and characters that younger audiences will love.

🎸 Los Angeles International Ukulele Festival

Location: Torrance Cultural Arts Center, Torrance (South LA region / South Bay)
Day & Time: Saturday, Sept 20 | All day (plus a VIP Meet & Greet on Friday)
Tickets: Flat admission; kids 12 & under free with paid adult. VIP options sold out.
Chill vibes, workshop sessions, lots of ukuleles and live music from folks who really love the instrument.

🌙 Long Beach Night Market: Summertime in the LBC

Location: Long Beach (vendor & food fair)
Day & Time: Friday, Sept 19 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Tickets: Usually free entry; you pay for food/vendors you engage with.
Great for an evening out — local vendors, food stalls, live music, and strolling by the waterfront.

🎨 Baja Splash Cultural Festival

Location: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Day & Time: Sunday, Sept 21 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tickets: General admission prices: ~$44.95 for adults 12+, ~$34.95 for kids 3–11; seniors ~$41.95. Free for Aquarium members and children under 3. Reservations required.
What It Is: A cultural festival with live music, dance, interactive educational programming, booths, heritage awards, etc. Great for families and folks who like arts & culture.

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