Los Angeles is home to some of the biggest and best festivals around. Whether an Angeleno or a visitor from afar, L.A. and its surrounding communities have an event for music lovers, whale watchers, foodies and more.
Check out Los Angeles News Group's festival picks for 2014 -- one for each weekend next year!
JANUARY
The Palm Springs International Film Festival
As the Hollywood award season heats up, the Palm Springs International Film Festival brings an interesting lineup of movies, stars and filmmakers from all over te world to one of the hottest spots in Southern California.
Among the 2014 festival honorees, "Saving Mr. Banks'" John Lee Hancock will receive the Creative Impact in Directing Award and "The Wolf of Wall Street's" Jonah Hill is getting the Creative Impact in Acting Award. "Gravity's Sandra Bullock will receive the Desert Palm Award.
When: Jan. 3-13
Where: Various locations in Palm Springs
Information: www.psfilmfest.org
Anime Los Angeles
For those who want to dive in the world of Japanese animation, this is the place. There will a fashion shows, an anime music video contest and more. Oh, Gungans are not allowed to dance on stage.
When: Jan. 10-12
Where: Los Angeles Airport Marriot, 5855 W. Century Blvd, Los Angeles
Information: www.animelosangeles.org
Los Angeles Art Show
The 2014 Los Angeles Art Show presents a broad spectrum of art from across the globe to local collectors. The show includes three distinct sections: Modern & Contemporary, Historic & Traditional Contemporary and the IFPDA Los Angeles Fine Print Fair, showcasing the highest caliber galleries enhanced by exceptional programming and special exhibitions.
Last year's show drew some 56,000 visitors and featured more than 100 galleries.
When: Jan. 15-19
Where: Los Angeles Convention Center, South Hall J and K, 1201 S Figueroa St., Los Angeles
Information: www.laartshow.com
Asian Pacific Lunar New Year Festival
The beauty of the ancient Orient is on display at this event, which begins with a Spectacular Parade of Nations at 10 a.m.
Throughout the day there will be traditional Asian music, Taiko drumming, dance performances, art displays and various other demonstrations by community and professional groups.
When: Jan. 25
Where: Downtown Riverside
Information: www.lunarfestriverside.com
FEBRUARY
Los Angeles A Capella Festival
The vocal festival brings talented a capella performers, educators and enthusiasts together for concerts, workshops and more.
When: Jan. 31-Feb. 2
Where: University of Southern California
Information: www.la-af.com
Los Angeles Bacon Festival
A daylong celebration of the meat candy, featuring everything from chocolate covered bacon to bacon ice cream and more.
When: Feb. 8
Where: Petersen Auto Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles
Information: www.labaconfest.com
Gallifrey One
Fanboys and fangirls of the classic and new television show, "Doctor Who," gather to celebrate the series and its spinoff.
The 25th annual North American Gallifrey One convention was founded by the Time Meddlers of Los Angeles, a local fan organization.
When: Feb. 14-16
Where: Los Angeles Airport Marriot, 5855 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles
Information: www.gallifreyone.com
Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival
The annual festival, which comes in time for Valentine's Day, celebrates the date -- fruit, that is.
When: Feb. 14-23
Where: Riverside County Fairgrounds, 82-503 Highway 111, Indio
Information: www.datefest.org
MARCH
Dana Point Festival of Whales
The town comes alive with two weekends of whale watching as the once-endangered California Gray Whale begins its spring migration.
When: March 1-2 and March 8-9
Where: Dana Point
Information: 888-440-4309; www.dpfestivalofwhales.com
Festival of Colors
A springtime festival where participants throw colored powders at each other and revel in music, dance and yoga.
When: March 8
Where: Excelsior High School, 15711 Pioneer Blvd., Norwalk.
Information: 323-989-4654; www.festivalofcolorsusa.com
Ultimate Beerfest
Meet brewers from around the world, sample craft beers and learn all about brewing beer at home.
When: March 15
Where: Pasadena Convention Center, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena
Information: www.ultimatebeerfest.com
Cherry Blossom Festival
Enjoy live music, origami workshops, Japanese-inspired food and more during this springtime celebration of Japanese culture.
When: March 22-23
Where: Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge
Information: www.descansogardens.org
Tomatomania!
The traveling heirloom sales and information event kicks off March 15 in Encinitas and hits the greater L.A. area through April.
When: March 21-23 in Encino; March 29-30 in La Canada Flintridge; April 5-6 in Claremont and Westwood.
Where: Tapia Brothers Farm Stand, 5251 Hayvenhurst Ave, Encino; Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada Flintridge; Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens, 1500 N College Ave, Claremont; Grow Native Nursery, 1 Davis Ave., Westwood
Information: www.tomatomania.com
APRIL
Scandinavian Festival of Southern California
The 40th annual Scandinavian Festival of Southern California is one of the largest Nordic festivals in the western United States. The event celebrates the food, arts and traditions of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden as well as the Saami people of the Artic regions of Scandinavia.
When: April 5-6
Where: Kingsmen Park at California Lutheran University, 60 East Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks
Information: www.scandinavianfest.org
Coachella Music & Arts Festival
Coachella has grown to a two-weekend-long festival and is among the biggest music festivals in the country, where many reunions and surprise collaborations take to the stage. According to Billboard magazine, the members of OutKast will reunite at the 2014 festival.
Other must-sees include interactive and multimedia displays by artists from around the globe.
When: April 11-13 and April 18-20
Where: Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio
Information: www.coachella.com
Catalina Art Fair and Exhibition
The 5th Annual Catalina Art Fair & Exhibition, also known as CAFE, is a three-day art fair featuring local arts, crafts and entertainment for the whole family.
When: April 18-20
Where: Catalina Island
Information: 310-510-2788; www.catalinaartassociation.org
Stagecoach -- California's Country Music Festival
Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Eric Church headline this three-day country music festival whose lineup also includes Loretta Lynn, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and John Prine.
When: April 25-27
Where: Empire Polo Club, 81-800 Avenue 51, Indio
Information: www.stagecoachfestival.com
MAY
The Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire
The outdoor event is set in the historic medieval times of yore when knights would joust on horseback and royals ruled the land. Expect elaborate costumes, turkey legs for lunch and more.
When: Saturdays and Sundays, April 5-May 18
Where: Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 Arrow Highway, Irwindale
Information: 626-969-4750; www.renfair.com
United We Stand Fest
The politically-themed music festival kicks off in L.A. and continues on a 10-city tour. Speakers expected to participate in the event include three time Emmy Award-winning journalist Amber Lyon as well as 2012 presidential candidates Jill Stein and Gary Johnson.
When: May 10
Where: Edwin W. Pauley Pavilion, 301 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles
Information: www.unitedwestandfest.com
WorldFest
Dubbed L.A.'s largest Earth Day festival, WorldFest focuses on environmental, humanitarian and other issues.
When: May 18
Where: Woodley Park, 6350 Woodley Ave., Lake Balboa
Information: www.worldfestevents.com
JazzReggae Festival
This festival has brought big name acts like Santigold, Ziggy Marley and more for what has become a Memorial Day weekend tradition.
When: May 25-26
Where UCLA Intramural Field, 405 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles
Information: www.jazzreggaefest.com
COMEDY NINJA Film and Screenplay Festival
Organizers boast "rib-tickling comedy features and shorts" as well as stand-up comedian shows. Nunchucks not required.
When: May 30-June 1
Where: Japanese American National Museum, 100 N Central Ave., Los Angeles
Information: www.comedyninja.org
JUNE
Ink-N-Iron Festival
Check out hot rods and tattoo artists to burlesque shows and more.
When: June 6-8
Where: Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach
Information: www.ink-n-iron.com
Playboy Jazz Festival
Comedian/actor George Lopez is slated to host the 36th annual Playboy Jazz Festival, a Hugh Hefner tradition.
When: June 14-15
Where: Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles
Information: www.hollywoodbowl.com/playboyjazz
Hollywood Fringe Fest
The Hollywood Fringe Festival celebrates the performing arts community for a "completely open and uncensored" experience.
When: June 12-29
Where: Various locations throughout Los Angeles
Information: www.hollywoodfringe.org
Mariachi USA Festival
Created in 1990 by artist/producer Rodri J. Rodriguez to celebrate the culture that resonates through mariachi and ballet folklorico.
When: June 28
Where: Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Ave., Hollywood
Information: 323-848-7712; www.mariachiusa.com
JULY
Anime Expo (AX)
The largest anime and magna convention in North America, boasting events around the clock, including concerts and its famous Masquerade.
When: July 3-6
Where: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles
Information: www.anime-expo.org
Outfest Los Angeles LGBT Film Festival
See emerging talent in film created for and by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender audiences.
When: July 10-20
Where: Various locations in Los Angeles
Information: www.outfest.org
JazzFest West
JazzFest West plans to celebrate its 19th year. Last year's performers included Fantasia and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly.
When: July 19-20
Where: Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park, 120 Via Verde, San Dimas
Information: www.jazzfestwest.com
Watermelon Festival
Enjoy free watermelon and this event that benefits the Sunland-Tujunga Lions Club's philanthropic projects.
When: July 26-27
Where: Rose Bowl, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena
Information: www.lionswatermelonfestival.com
AUGUST
La Habra Corn Festival
The 66th annual event, presented by the La Habra Host Lions Club, celebrates the summer barbecue side staple.
When: Aug. 1-3
Where: El Centro Lions Park, 320 E Erna Ave., La Habra
Information: www.lahabracornfestival.com
Long Beach Jazz Festival
Summer is the perfect time for classic R&B and smooth jazz. Fans got to catch Gladys Knight and 2014 is expected to be just as fun-filled.
When: Aug. 9-10
Where: Rainbow Lagoon Park, East Shoreline Drive, Long Beach
Information: www.longbeachjazzfestival.com
Big Bear Renaissance Faire
Eat, drink and make merry in Elizabethan style. Entertainment for all ages.
When: Weekends Aug. 2-17
Where: 39115 Rim of the World Dr., Fawnskin
Information: www.bbvrsinc.org
Long Beach BBQ Festival
Pork ribs, beef ribs, tri-tip, pulled pork, chicken, sausages and... need we say more?
When: Aug. 22-24
Where: Rainbow Lagoon Park, East Shoreline Drive, Long Beach
Information: www.longbeachbbqfestival.com
Fiesta Hermosa
The Hermosa Chamber of Commerce has presented Fiesta Hemosa since 1972 during Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. The event brings in more than 300 artists during the three-day festival.
When: Aug. 30-Sept. 1; also May 24-26
Where: Hermosa Beach Pier
Information: www.iestahermosa.net
SEPTEMBER
Los Angeles Greek Fest
Award-winning actor Tom Hanks and his talented wife, actress Rita Wilson, are slated to host the annual festival.
When: Sept. 5-7
Where: Saint Sophia Cathedral, 1324 S. Normandie Ave., Los Angeles
Information: www.lagreekfest.com
Lobster Festival-palooza
The Original Long Beach Lobster Festival kicks off three weeks of local lobster fests for foodies craving the butter-soaked crustacean.
When: The Original Long Beach Lobster Festival Sept. 5-7; Port of Los Angeles Lobster Festival Sept. 12-15; Redondo Beach Lobster Festival Sept. 19-21
Where: Rainbow Lagoon, [400-403] Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach; Ports O' Call Village, 77 Berth, San Pedro; Seaside Lagoon, 200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach
Information: www.originallobsterfestival.com; lobsterfest.com; lobsterfestival.com
Mid-Autumn Moon Festival
Chinatown Los Angeles hosts this yearly tradition with a variety of cultural activities that celebrates China's food, music and more.
When: Sept. 13
Where: Central Plaza and West Plaza, 943-951 N. Broadway, Los Angeles
Information: 213-680-0243; www.chinatownla.com
Italian Feast of San Gennaro in Hollywood
The event is kicks off each year with hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla. Proceeds benefits the San Gennaro Foundation, a nonprofit organization aimed at helping children and families in need.
When: Sept. 26-28
Where: The Jimmy Kimmel Live! backlot, 1651 N. Highland Ave, Hollywood
Information: www.feastofla.org
OCTOBER
Oktoberfest
Alpine Village holds the title of the oldest and largest Oktoberfest in Southern California, with several weekends worth of parties to celebrate German beer and bratwurst.
When: Friday through Sunday Sept. 5-Oct. 26
Where: Alpine Village, 833 W. Torrance Blvd., Torrance
Information: 310-327-4384; www.alpinevillagecenter.com
Joshua Tree Fall Music Festival
Enjoy music in the great outdoors surrounded by the trees that have inspired many, including the band U2.
When: Oct. 10-12
Where: The Joshua Tree Lake Campground, 2601 Sunfair Road, Joshua Tree
Information: www.joshuatreemusicfestival.com
Calabasas Pumpkin Festival
Everything pumpkin plus a whole lot more including contests, nature shows, a costume parade and more.
When: Oct. 18-19
Where: Juan Bautista de Anza Park, Calabasas
Information: 818-222-5680; www.calabasaspumpkinfestival.com
Village Venture Arts & Crafts Faire
Shop at the Inland Empire's largest autumn arts & crafts fair, hosted along the tree-lined streets of the Claremont Village.
When: Oct. 25
Where: Claremont Village
Information: www.thevillageclaremont.com
NOVEMBER
Dia de los Muertos
Enjoy a colorful, ancient Mexican ceremony in remembrance of departed loved ones with a pre-Columbian Novenario procession and blessings each night.
When: Nov. 1-2
Where: Olvera Street, Los Angeles
Information: www.olvera-street.com
Bent-Con
Celebrate talent from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in the fields of comics, graphic novels and other creative mediums.
When: Nov. 7-9
Where: Burbank Los Angeles Burbank Marriott Convention Center, 2500 N. Hollywood Way, Burbank
Information: www.bent-con.org
Bouchercon, Murder at the Beach
Bouchercon is the annual World Mystery Convention where lovers of crime fiction gather for education, entertainment and fun.
When: Nov. 13-16
Where: Various locations in Long Beach
Information: www.bouchercon2014.com
Sawdust Arts & Craft Festival Winter Fantasy
Nearly 200 artists create, display and sell original creations over the course of four weekends.
When: Weekends Nov. 23-Dec. 14
Where: 935 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach
Information: 800-877-1115; www.sawdustartfestival.org
Festival of Lights
Get in the holiday spirit with an outdoor ice skating rink, live entertainment and more in a scene lit by thousands of holiday lights.
When: Nov. 28, 2014 through Jan. 3, 2015
Where: The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside
Information: www.missioninn.com
DECEMBER
Oxnard Tamale Festival
Satisfy that tamale craving at this annual event with traditional and unique flavors that include everything from carnitas to cranberry sauce. Proceeds of the festival go to local nonprofits that serve more than 100,000 youth each year.
When: Dec. 6
Where: Plaza Park, downtown Oxnard
Information: www.oxnardtamalefest.com
X103.9 Merry Meltdown
The annual Merry Meltdown gets headbangers in the holiday mood. Last year's headliners included Korn and Stone Temple Pilots.
When: Dec. 13
Where: Citizen Business Bank Arena, 4000 E. Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario (tentative)
Information: www.x1039.com
Naples Island Annual Holiday Boat Parade
This merry tradition is sure to light up the holiday season as homes and boats are decked in festive decor. Carolers and plenty of cheer.
When: Dec. 20
Where: Naples Island, Long Beach
Information: www.naplesca.com
Rose Parade
Ring in the new year with a Southern California tradition hosted by the Tournament of Roses. Just don't forget to claim a spot early along the more than 5-mile parade route to check out the numerous ornate floats, many of which take nearly a year to complete.
When: Jan. 1, 2015
Where: Pasadena
Information: www.tournamentofroses.com
Reporters Diana Sholley, Sandra Barrera, Michelle Mills and Rob Lowman contributed to this list. ___
(c)2013 the Daily News (Los Angeles)
Visit the Daily News (Los Angeles) at www.dailynews.com
Distributed by MCT Information Services
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