Long Beach, California is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. It’s also home to a wide variety of exciting events throughout the year. From annual festivals to concerts and sports events, there’s always something happening in Long Beach.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Long Beach events have something for everyone. From family-friendly activities to food and drink festivals, you’re sure to find something that interests you.
Key Takeaways
- Long Beach events offer a wide range of entertainment and excitement.
- From annual festivals to sports events, there’s always something happening in Long Beach.
- Long Beach events cater to a variety of interests, including family-friendly activities and food and drink festivals.
Annual Festivals and Celebrations in Long Beach
Long Beach is known for its vibrant and diverse culture, which is reflected in the many annual festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year. From music and art to food and sports, these events provide a unique opportunity to experience the best of what Long Beach has to offer.
Long Beach Grand Prix
The Long Beach Grand Prix is one of the city’s most popular events, attracting over 180,000 visitors each year. This three-day event features a variety of races, including the IndyCar Series and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. In addition to the races, the Long Beach Grand Prix also offers entertainment, food, and a lifestyle expo.
Pride Festival
The Long Beach Pride Festival is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the country, attracting over 80,000 attendees annually. This two-day event takes place in May and features live music, dancing, food, and a parade that winds through the streets of Long Beach.
Long Beach Jazz Festival
The Long Beach Jazz Festival is a three-day event held in August that celebrates the rich history and diverse styles of jazz music. The festival features live performances by renowned jazz musicians from around the world, as well as food vendors and arts and crafts booths.
Taste of Downtown
Taste of Downtown is an annual event that showcases the culinary offerings of Long Beach’s downtown area. This event allows attendees to sample food and drinks from local restaurants and bars, while also enjoying live music and art displays.
Long Beach Crawfish Festival
The Long Beach Crawfish Festival is a two-day event that celebrates Cajun culture and cuisine. This festival features live music, dancing, and, of course, plenty of crawfish dishes, as well as other Cajun favorites like gumbo and jambalaya.
Belmont Shore Christmas Parade
The Belmont Shore Christmas Parade is a beloved holiday tradition in Long Beach that has been held for over 30 years. This parade features floats, marching bands, and even Santa Claus himself, as it winds through the streets of Belmont Shore on the second Saturday of December.
These are just a few of the many annual festivals and celebrations that take place in Long Beach. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these events provide a fun and exciting way to experience the city’s unique culture and community.
Music and Concerts in Long Beach
If you’re a music lover, Long Beach is the place to be! This vibrant city offers an impressive range of musical genres, from jazz to rock to hip hop. With its varied venues and rich cultural scene, Long Beach plays host to a variety of concerts, live performances, and music festivals throughout the year.
Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center
The Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center is the city’s premier destination for music events. This modern venue offers state-of-the-art sound and lighting and has hosted concerts by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Madonna, Kanye West, and Lady Gaga.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Celine Dion Courage World Tour | April 15, 2022 |
| Harry Styles Love on Tour | September 2, 2022 |
| Enrique Iglesias & Ricky Martin Live | September 3, 2022 |
Queen Mary Events Park
The Queen Mary Events Park is another top music venue in Long Beach, situated on the historic Queen Mary ship. This outdoor space boasts stunning views of the Long Beach skyline and has hosted festivals such as the One Love Cali Reggae Fest and the Tropicália Music and Taco Festival.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Ohana Festival | October 1-3, 2021 |
| Beachlife Festival | May 6-8, 2022 |
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, Long Beach also has a range of smaller venues that host live music on a regular basis. Check out the lineups at the Fingerprints Record Store or The Federal Bar for some up-and-coming local talent.
No matter what your musical taste, Long Beach has something for you. Don’t miss out on the exciting music scene that this cosmopolitan city has to offer!
Family-Friendly Events in Long Beach
Long Beach is not just for adults. Families with little ones can also find plenty of exciting events that cater to all ages. Here are some of the top family-friendly events and attractions in Long Beach:
- Aquarium of the Pacific: This world-class aquarium features over 11,000 ocean animals and offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages.
- The Queen Mary: This historic ocean liner offers family-friendly tours, dining, and events like the annual Dark Harbor Halloween celebration.
- Shoreline Village: This waterfront shopping and dining destination features a carousel, arcade, and outdoor concerts during the summer months.
- Long Beach Museum of Art: This museum offers unique art installations and programs for children and families, including the popular Art After Dark events.
- Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum: This museum celebrates the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands through art, music, and dance.
These are just a few of the many family-friendly attractions and events that Long Beach has to offer. Plan your visit to Long Beach today, and create memories that your family will cherish for a lifetime.
Sports Events in Long Beach
Long Beach offers a plethora of sports events throughout the year that cater to a variety of interests.
One of the most popular events is the Long Beach Grand Prix, which features a three-day festival and a thrilling IndyCar race through the streets of downtown Long Beach. The World Series of Beach Volleyball is another exciting event that draws top athletes from around the world to compete for the championship title. For those who enjoy running, the Long Beach Marathon is a scenic course that takes participants through the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods.
Professional Sports
If you’re a sports fan, you won’t want to miss the chance to catch a game or match while you’re in Long Beach. The city is home to professional teams like the Long Beach Armada baseball team and the Long Beach State 49ers basketball team. The Armada play at the recently renovated Blair Field, while the 49ers compete at the Walter Pyramid.
Amateur Sports
Long Beach also offers a range of amateur sports events for athletes of all levels. The Long Beach Triathlon is a popular event that includes a swim in the ocean, a bike ride along the coast, and a run through downtown Long Beach. The city also hosts regular beach volleyball tournaments and surfing competitions, as well as youth sports leagues for soccer, basketball, and more.
Whether you’re a professional athlete or just looking for a fun way to stay active, Long Beach has plenty of sports events to keep you entertained and engaged.
Cultural Experiences and Art Events in Long Beach
Long Beach is a cultural hub, brimming with art events, museums, galleries, and cultural festivals. Whether you’re a fan of traditional art or contemporary installations, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the best cultural experiences to be had in Long Beach.
The Museum of Latin American Art
The Museum of Latin American Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers. This museum showcases a vast collection of contemporary and modern Latin American art, including paintings, photography, and sculptures. The Museum also hosts various exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.
The East Village Arts District
The East Village Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood that is home to numerous galleries, museums, and art installations. This district hosts the monthly Art Walk, which allows visitors to explore the galleries and meet the artists. You can also catch live music performances and street art installations during the Art Walk.
The Long Beach Opera
The Long Beach Opera is a world-renowned company that stages unique and thought-provoking productions. The opera is an immersive cultural experience that brings together music and theater. The Long Beach Opera stages productions at various venues across Long Beach, including the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center.
The Long Beach International Film Festival
The Long Beach International Film Festival is a five-day event that celebrates the art of cinema. The festival showcases international films, documentaries, animation, and short films. The event also features panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and awards ceremonies.
Conclusion
Long Beach is a mecca for cultural experiences and art events. From the Museum of Latin American Art to the Long Beach International Film Festival, there’s no shortage of entertainment for art lovers. Come and experience the art and culture of Long Beach for yourself.
Food and Drink Events in Long Beach
Long Beach not only offers a diverse range of food and drink options, but also hosts several food and drink events throughout the year. From wine tastings to craft beer festivals, Long Beach has something for every foodie and drink enthusiast.
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Long Beach Crawfish Festival | July | Enjoy delicious crawfish and other Cajun-inspired dishes, live music, and games at this annual festival. |
| Long Beach Taco & Beer Festival | September | Indulge in unlimited tacos and craft beer while enjoying live music and entertainment at this popular festival. |
| Long Beach Beer & Wine Festival | October | Sample a variety of craft beers and wines from over 50 breweries and wineries, accompanied by live music and food trucks. |
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, visit the Long Beach Beer Lab, a local brewery that offers a rotating selection of beers made with unique ingredients and brewing techniques. For a taste of Long Beach’s history, head to The Pike Outlets, which was once home to a bustling amusement park and now features several dining options that pay homage to its past.
With so many food and drink events and options to choose from, Long Beach is a true foodie’s paradise.
Outdoor and Recreation Events in Long Beach
Long Beach is the perfect destination for outdoor and recreation enthusiasts. With its beautiful beaches, numerous parks, and year-round sunny weather, there’s always something fun and exciting happening in Long Beach. From beach parties to sporting events, there are plenty of outdoor and recreation events for everyone to enjoy.
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Beach Cleanups | Join the community in keeping Long Beach beaches clean and beautiful. Various organizations and groups hold beach cleanup events throughout the year. |
| Movies in the Park | Enjoy a night under the stars with free outdoor movie screenings in various parks throughout Long Beach during the summer months. |
| Paddleboard Racing | Watch or participate in paddleboard racing competitions held at various beaches in Long Beach throughout the year. The events are open to both amateurs and professionals. |
| Belmont Shore Stroll & Savor | Sample delicious dishes from local restaurants during the Belmont Shore Stroll & Savor event, held twice a year in the Belmont Shore area. |
| Belmont Shore Car Show | See classic cars and hot rods on display during the Belmont Shore Car Show. The event takes place annually in the Belmont Shore neighborhood. |
| Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier Fishing | Go fishing off the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, which is open 24 hours a day. You can catch a variety of fish, including halibut, sand bass, and mackerel. |
| El Dorado Nature Center | Explore the beautiful El Dorado Nature Center, which features lakes, streams, and forests. The center offers guided tours and educational programs for all ages. |
Whether you’re looking to spend a day at the beach, go hiking in a park, or participate in a sporting event, Long Beach has something for everyone. With its variety of outdoor and recreation events, Long Beach is the perfect destination for adventure and fun.
Conclusion
Long Beach events offer an array of fun and entertainment for everyone. From annual festivals and celebrations to music and concerts, family-friendly activities, sports events, cultural experiences, food and drink events, and outdoor recreation, there is something for everyone in Long Beach.
Don’t miss out on the excitement and adventure that awaits in this vibrant city. Explore and experience the variety of Long Beach events and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
FAQ
Q: What types of events can I expect to find in Long Beach?
A: Long Beach offers a wide range of events and entertainment options, including annual festivals, music concerts, family-friendly activities, sports events, cultural experiences, food and drink events, and outdoor recreational activities.
Q: Can you give me some examples of annual festivals and celebrations in Long Beach?
A: Sure! Some popular annual events in Long Beach include the Long Beach Grand Prix, Pride Festival, and the Long Beach Jazz Festival.
Q: Are there any music concerts or festivals in Long Beach?
A: Absolutely! Long Beach has a vibrant music scene with concerts, live performances, and music festivals happening throughout the year. You can catch shows at venues like the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and the Queen Mary Events Park.
Q: Are there any family-friendly events and activities in Long Beach?
A: Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly options in Long Beach. Attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific, Shoreline Village, and the Long Beach Museum of Art offer activities suitable for the whole family.
Q: Are there any sports events in Long Beach?
A: Absolutely! Long Beach hosts a variety of sports events, including the Long Beach Marathon and the World Series of Beach Volleyball. Whether you’re a spectator or a participant, there’s something for everyone.
Q: Can you tell me about the cultural and art events in Long Beach?
A: Long Beach has a rich cultural scene with art events, museums, galleries, and cultural festivals. Don’t miss attractions like the Museum of Latin American Art and the East Village Arts District.
Q: Are there any food and drink events in Long Beach?
A: Yes, Long Beach is a foodie’s paradise! From food festivals to wine tastings and craft beer events, there’s always something delicious happening. Check out venues like the Long Beach Beer Lab and the Long Beach Crawfish Festival.
Q: Are there any outdoor events and recreation activities in Long Beach?
A: Definitely! Long Beach offers a variety of outdoor events and recreational activities, including beach parties, outdoor movie screenings, and sporting events. Explore attractions like the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier and the El Dorado Nature Center.
