Every Sunday, Long Beach’s California Avenue bridge becomes a hub for pro‑Palestine solidarity as residents host a vigorous banner drop over the 405 Freeway.

 

Starting September 28, 2025, locals gather at 3100 California Ave. to display messages supporting Palestinian rights—creating powerful visibility in one of the city’s busiest corridors.

 

The weekly event has become a fixture in the community, offering a peaceful but resolute presence that encourages dialogue and awareness on the Palestinian cause.

 

Participants come from diverse backgrounds, often spreading word through social media and community networks.

 

There’s no single organizer; instead, the action represents grassroots involvement and Long Beach’s tradition of civic activism.

 

Drivers often honk or wave in support, while photos and posts amplify the effort online.

 

The ongoing banner drop not only supports global justice efforts but also highlights Long Beach’s unique voice in the movement for peace and human rights.

Long Beach is gearing up for the Hope Works Rally on September 1, 2025, a spirited Labor Day event celebrating unity, resilience, and the dignity of work at Bolstad Pavilion.

 

This all-day gathering brings together job booths, local leaders, live music, and outreach tables, connecting residents with opportunities and community causes.

 

Speakers include union reps, educators, and youth organizers, offering heartfelt perspectives on labor, equity, and perseverance.

 

Throughout the day, Long Beach’s unique labor story will shine as guests honor essential workers, reflect with moments of silence, and explore how hope fuels every workplace.

 

Families can enjoy local bands, youth-led mural art, voter registration, and a mobile health clinic, ensuring there's something for every age.

 

The event is free and open to all, inviting everyone to celebrate, connect, and shape a brighter future for Long Beach.

Long Beach is set for a major Labor Day protest on September 1, 2025, with a powerful call for “Workers Over Billionaires.”

 

Residents will gather at 411 W Ocean Blvd and 1331 Eubank Ave, demanding fair wages, robust labor protections, and a more just economy.

 

This event, led by unions and community groups, responds to rising rents and stagnant pay while waterfront developments transform the city.

 

Essential workers, especially those in logistics and service industries, plan to unite and amplify their voices at both City Hall and near the Port of Long Beach.

 

The protest underscores widening local inequality, with organizers aiming to turn Labor Day into a rallying point for lasting change.

 

Speakers, music, and calls for solidarity will highlight the continued struggle for job security, affordable housing, and respect for Long Beach’s working class.

 

With support from across the community, residents are ready to demand a fairer future.

Downtown Long Beach is set to buzz with creativity on September 28 as the RuMBa Foundation Family Concerts bring Wild Symphony! to the Terrace Theater & Plaza.

 

Bestselling author Dan Brown swaps novels for music, guiding families through a playful orchestral adventure where children can laugh, move, and interact with musical animal characters brought to life through vibrant animations and lyrical narration.

 

Before the concert, families can enjoy hands-on activities on the Terrace Plaza, including crafts, rhythm stations, and the chance to meet musicians—making classical music accessible and fun for all ages.

 

Supported by the RuMBa Foundation, this event promotes music education and cultural access, offering an inviting environment especially valuable as school arts programs face cuts.

 

Admission is just $20 for adults, with children 17 and under joining for free, ensuring every Long Beach neighborhood can take part in this unique, interactive experience.

The Long Beach QFilm Festival returns for its 32nd year September 4–7, 2025, bringing bold LGBTQ+ stories to local screens.

 

This annual celebration transforms multiple Long Beach venues into hubs of independent queer cinema, connecting longtime fans and newcomers through groundbreaking films that challenge, inspire, and reflect community experiences.

 

Founded in the 1990s, QFilm has become a pillar of the Southern California arts scene, spotlighting fresh voices and overlooked gems often missing from mainstream theaters.

 

Attendees can expect more than just screenings—intimate filmmaker Q&As, lively panel discussions, and vibrant social mixers spark conversation and foster genuine connections.

 

This year’s festival stands out amid ongoing national discussions on LGBTQ+ rights, with Long Beach’s progressive spirit offering the perfect backdrop for a weekend of discovery, pride, and celebration.

 

Whether you’re a cinephile or simply seeking community, the QFilm Festival promises a memorable, meaningful experience.

Wilmington’s 46th Annual Labor Solidarity Parade & Picnic Rally will bring energy and unity to local streets on Labor Day, September 1, 2025.

 

Organized by union leaders and community groups, the parade sets off at 10:00 a.m. from Broad and E Street, filling Wilmington with banners, music, and pride.

 

The celebration continues at Banning Park, where families can enjoy a picnic, food, live tunes by the Suave Band, and activities for all ages.

 

This gathering stands as a testament to workers’ victories and continuing struggles, connecting generations committed to equity and dignity on the job.

 

With recent labor actions in the national spotlight, the rally highlights the essential role of unions—from logistics to healthcare—and invites everyone to stand in solidarity with the people powering the local economy.

 

Admission is free, and all are welcome.

Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach is set to host its inaugural Doggie + Kite Beach Party on Monday, September 1.

 

This relaxed event welcomes locals, their pups, and colorful kites for a casual celebration along Ocean Boulevard.

 

No vendors or admission fees—just the pure joy of dogs, wide skies, and the ocean breeze.

 

Festivities begin at 12:00 PM, with a group kite launch at 1:00 PM and a lighthearted pup parade along the water’s edge at 2:30.

 

Rosie’s, the only off-leash dog beach in Los Angeles County, offers a friendly setting for both regulars and first-timers.

 

Attendees are encouraged to bring kites, picnic supplies, and a love of simple pleasures.

 

Organizers hope this grassroots event becomes a beloved Labor Day tradition—celebrating Long Beach’s laid-back, pet-friendly spirit.

Step aboard Long Beach’s Queen Mary on August 30, 2025, for an unforgettable night of jazz with Alex Mendham & His Orchestra.

 

This renowned British bandleader brings the glitz of the 1920s and ‘30s to life, transforming the ship’s historic decks into a dazzling swing-era dancehall.

 

Guests can savor panoramic harbor views, sea breezes, and the sounds of classics straight from legends like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington.

 

The Queen Mary, an icon of art deco luxury and Long Beach history, sets a cinematic scene—where vintage attire and martinis are encouraged but not required.

 

Tickets start at $47.70 and early booking is advised, as spots fill fast for this unique blend of music, fashion, and local heritage.

 

More than just a concert, it’s a magical step back in time right on the Long Beach waterfront.

Shoreline Village once again sets the scene for Long Beach’s signature Summer Concert Series, offering free live music every weekend through September 1, 2025.

 

The action unfolds at the amphitheater by Rainbow Harbor, where crowds can catch everything from jazz and rock to reggae and soul against a backdrop of boats and the iconic Queen Mary.

 

Families and friends gather along the waterfront for this all-ages, open-air tradition, complete with carousel rides and ice cream for kids, boutique shopping, and waterside dining.

 

Perfect for locals and out-of-towners alike, the series promises fresh acts each weekend, capturing that breezy, coastal Long Beach summer spirit in a totally accessible, family-friendly setting.

 

So whether you’re dancing with friends or taking in the harbor views, Shoreline Village’s concerts are the soundtrack of the season.

Happy Sundays Free Music Fest returns to Long Beach August 23–24, 2025, offering a vibrant, free two-day celebration of indie music in the heart of Zaferia.

 

The festival transforms Zaferia—east of downtown—into a walkable showcase of popular locals and nationally recognized acts, spotlighting bands like Le Shok, Tim Kasher from Cursive, Brainstory, TRAP GIRL, and Bolero!

 

Energy spills onto the streets as open admission welcomes everyone, creating a casual, inclusive vibe that captures the creative spirit of Long Beach’s most arts-driven neighborhood.

 

Visitors can explore local shops, striking murals, indie record stalls, and sample food vendors or enjoy beer gardens while live music fills the air from noon Saturday through late Sunday.

 

Whether you’re a dedicated fan or discovering new artists, Happy Sundays promises community, culture, and sun-soaked fun in Zaferia’s lively, grassroots setting.

Bird enthusiasts and locals are invited to Rancho Los Cerritos on Thursday, August 14, for a free early morning bird walk through the estate’s renowned historic gardens.

 

From 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., guests can explore tree-lined paths and flowering groves, discovering a range of species like California towhees and hummingbirds, with knowledgeable volunteers guiding the way.

 

Rancho Los Cerritos, one of Southern California’s oldest landmarks, offers a unique blend of ecology and local history, where native birds thrive alongside 19th-century architecture.

 

All ages and experience levels are welcome, making it an ideal opportunity for families, seniors, or solo nature lovers to unwind and connect with Long Beach’s heritage.

 

With birding surging in popularity nationwide, this special event lets the community slow down, tune into nature, and enjoy the living stories of our city under the summer sky.

Long Beach Comic Con transforms the city’s Convention & Entertainment Center into a lively, two-day celebration of comics, pop culture, and fandom.

 

From action-packed cosplay contests to exclusive panels and meet-and-greets, there’s something for dedicated fans and curious newcomers alike.

 

Artist Alley spotlights top creators like Koi Turnbull and Ingrid Moon, while the GeekFest Film Festival and Space Expo offer an exciting mix of indie cinema and science showcases.

 

Attendees rave about the event’s welcoming vibe and emphasis on local community, making it a favorite among Southern California conventions.

 

With hundreds of vendors, panels, and special guests, there’s no shortage of activities for collectors, cosplayers, and families.

 

Arrive early, plan your schedule, and enjoy a weekend where pop culture comes alive right here in Long Beach.

The Graphics Pro Expo (GPX) and WRAPSCON are set to return to Long Beach from August 21 to 23, turning the Convention & Entertainment Center into a national hotspot for graphic artists, apparel decorators, and signage innovators.

 

This multi-day event is famous for its live demos, expert training sessions, and sprawling exhibition halls, drawing top talent and companies from across the country—right into the heart of Long Beach.

 

The city’s walkable downtown and scenic waterfront provide the perfect backdrop, while the flexible convention center allows both large-scale showcases and smaller, in-depth workshops.

 

Attendees can explore everything from wide-format printing and custom apparel to WRAPSCON’s live vehicle wrap contests and product reveals.

 

For local business owners and creatives, it’s an unmatched opportunity to network, discover new tech, and learn industry-leading strategies in a hands-on setting.

Rancho Los Cerritos’ Golf Classic Fundraiser returns Monday, August 25, 2025, at Virginia Country Club in Long Beach.

 

This annual event raises crucial funds to preserve the historic Rancho and sustain its public education programs for local families and students.

 

Rancho Los Cerritos stands as a living testament to California’s past, once a Spanish land grant headquarters and today a free museum connecting the community with local history.

 

Golfers will tee off at noon, enjoying tournament play, contests, raffles, and the scenic fairways of one of the city’s most storied courses.

 

After golf, guests gather at the Rancho for a catered dinner beneath the oaks—celebrating the continued preservation of this treasured site.

 

Every ticket advances tours, exhibits, and ongoing restoration efforts, making each swing a step toward safeguarding Long Beach heritage.

KCRW Summer Nights returns to The Pike Outlets in Long Beach on Saturday, August 16, joining forces with Taste of Downtown for a memorable evening, “Bevs, Bites & Beats,” from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

 

The free, all-ages party unfolds under the Ferris wheel’s glow, mixing live DJ sets, local cuisine, and signature drinks for a multisensory night out.

 

This summer’s event brings a fresh twist, blending music and culinary experiences on the waterfront lawn.

 

DJ Jeremy Sole and guest DJ Nobody keep the energy high, while foodies can sample bites from popular Long Beach chefs via tasting tickets.

 

Arrive early to beat the crowds or take Metro A Line for easy access.

 

This collaboration promises to set a new benchmark for Long Beach’s summer nightlife, fusing local flavor with iconic city views.

Long Beach families can experience the magic of bilingual storytime at Rancho Los Cerritos on Saturday, August 16, from 10 to 10:30 a.m.

 

Under the lush shade trees of this historic adobe home, children and parents gather for a free, interactive story session—read in both English and Spanish by local educators.

 

The garden setting feels almost dreamlike, turning learning into a joyful escape and fostering a love for reading for all ages and backgrounds.

 

This half-hour program is more than entertainment—it strengthens cultural connections, encourages early literacy, and helps every child feel included.

 

As Long Beach schools expand bilingual learning, these welcoming mornings not only spark imagination but also build community, one story at a time.

 

Bring a blanket, invite some friends, and let your child’s curiosity grow amidst the city’s living history.

Rancho Los Cerritos in Long Beach invites families to a beloved storytime event in its lush gardens, blending nature with history.

 

On Tuesday, August 5, from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., children can enjoy storytelling surrounded by blooming flowers and historic adobe walls.

 

This outdoor session offers a peaceful alternative to typical park outings.

 

Storytellers include local educators and passionate volunteers, who bring tales to life under the trees.

 

The historic Rancho, dating back to 1844, serves as more than a backdrop—it’s a living lesson in Long Beach’s rich past.

 

Stories highlight California history, nature, and multicultural traditions, creating a unique gathering spot for local families.

 

No reservation or fee is required, making this event a welcoming, screen-free experience for young children and their caregivers.

 

Long Beach’s DIGLIFE Back-2-School Bike Meet-Up returns for its fifth year on August 9, 2025, uniting families and community groups at Cesar E. Chavez Park for a day of support, fun, and encouragement as the new school year approaches.

 

The event, free for everyone, features group rides, live bike raffles, free haircuts, minor bike repairs, and backpack giveaways loaded with school supplies—students must be present to receive items, ensuring local youth are directly served.

 

Through partnerships with local groups—like Pedal Movement and Molina HealthCare—DIGLIFE helps offset back-to-school costs while promoting active, healthy lifestyles.

 

The morning community ride, volunteer mechanics, and festive atmosphere bring neighbors together, while the event supports Long Beach’s vision of bike-friendly, inclusive neighborhoods.

 

This meet-up blends fun and service, empowering local families and energizing both kids and adults for a strong start to the school year.

The Long Beach Kite Festival returns to Granada Beach on Sunday, August 17, 2025, welcoming locals and visitors alike for a day of soaring color and creativity by the ocean.

 

Open to all ages and skill levels, this free event transforms the shoreline into a sky full of whimsical kites, with hands-on workshops led by local artisans and a vibrant Parade of Kites featuring imaginative designs from across Southern California.

 

Families can build their own kites, watch expert teams perform synchronized stunts, and enjoy the simple joy of lounging under a moving tapestry.

 

Organizers provide shaded areas, launch zones, and helpful volunteers—ensuring an inclusive, screen-free celebration where everyone can look up and share the lift.

 

The festival has quietly grown into a beloved summer tradition, inviting the city to reconnect and find delight on the breeze—no experience required.

Long Beach’s Shoreline Aquatic Park will come alive on Sunday, August 17, as the Heroes 4 Hearing 5K invites the community to race along the scenic shoreline for a vital cause.

 

Organized by Hearing Heroes, the event raises funds and awareness for hearing loss prevention and support, helping to provide hearing aids and services for individuals in need.

 

The race starts near the lighthouse and curves around Rainbow Harbor, offering stunning ocean views while symbolizing a stride toward inclusion and equal healthcare access.

 

Many runners honor loved ones affected by hearing loss with personalized shirts, while volunteers and resource booths bring energy, support, and education to the park.

 

With hearing loss impacting nearly 48 million Americans, this 5K gives back locally—benefiting more than 150 Long Beach residents with restored hearing in the past year.

 

All ages and abilities are welcome to run, volunteer, or simply cheer, making this event a true celebration of community and hope.

Free Jazz at The Shell lights up Long Beach’s historic Recreation Park Bandshell on Saturday, August 9, 2025, inviting the community to experience live jazz under the stars—all with free admission.

 

This beloved summer event, organized by Live at The Shell, celebrates Week 5 of the 7 Saturdays of Summer and showcases top local jazz talent starting at 5:30 PM.

 

Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or grab shaded bench seats for a relaxed, picnic-friendly setting.

 

The restored 1929 Bandshell, a Spanish Revival landmark, offers an intimate backdrop and warm acoustics, breathing new life into Long Beach’s live music scene.

 

With ample parking near Blair Field and easy access for pedestrians and bicyclists, the event fosters a true community spirit.

 

Don’t miss this local tradition—join friends and neighbors for an unforgettable evening of jazz in a treasured outdoor space.

The Sultans Classic Car Show returns to Marina Green Park for its 32nd year on Sunday, August 3, 2025, promising a spectacular display of restored vintage cars along Long Beach’s scenic shoreline.

 

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors can stroll through rows of gleaming Chevys, Fords, and custom lowriders while enjoying live music and local food vendors.

 

The event, hosted by the dedicated Sultans Car Club, welcomes families and car enthusiasts alike, offering the chance to meet owners and hear remarkable restoration stories.

 

Admission is free, making it an accessible summertime tradition that celebrates American automotive heritage.

 

Parking fills up quickly, so locals are encouraged to bike or use public transit.

 

The Sultans Car Show isn’t just a gathering—it’s a Long Beach institution that fuels nostalgia and community spirit at the heart of summer.

Houghton Park in Long Beach will come alive on Saturday, August 2, 2025, as the Uptown Jazz Festival returns for its beloved annual celebration of music and community.

 

This free event runs from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., delivering five hours of live jazz performances by both acclaimed local legends and promising young talent.

 

Attendees can expect an eclectic musical lineup, from classic swing to Latin-jazz fusion, all in a relaxed open-air setting perfect for families and neighbors to gather.

 

Lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets are welcome, while food vendors add to the festive, sun-dappled atmosphere.

 

The festival highlights Uptown’s rich cultural heritage and boosts local businesses, reinforcing Houghton Park’s role as a hub for inclusive, vibrant, and equitable arts experiences in Long Beach.

 

No tickets or reservations needed—just bring your love of music and community spirit.