When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Grand Performances
Why Grand Performances is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Grand Performances is Southern California's largest presenter of free performing arts, established in 1986 and located in the Financial District of Downtown Los Angeles at Two California Plaza. It offers a vibrant summer concert series from June through September, typically hosting at least one performance per weekend. This unique venue provides an exceptional place for friends to meet and enjoy a diverse range of world-class entertainment, including live music, dance, theater, and poetry. The performances feature a broad spectrum of artists, from celebrated local talents to international musicians and dance companies, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of Los Angeles. The open-air format and central urban setting make it an inviting social hub, perfect for gathering with friends in a festive and inclusive atmosphere. Recognized with numerous awards for excellence in programming and production, Grand Performances stands out not only for its artistic quality but also for fostering community through accessible cultural experiences.
Here's what people think of Grand Performances
As of recent, Grand Performances holds a 4.8-star rating based on 258 reviews.
With a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 258 reviews, patrons of Grand Performances overwhelmingly praise the organization for its commitment to providing free, high-quality live performances that bring diverse communities together. Positive reviews highlight the impressive artist lineups, the welcoming and festive outdoor environment, and the well-organized event logistics, which together create a memorable and enjoyable outing for friends and families alike. Reviewers often mention the convenience of the downtown location and the opportunity to experience cultural performances from around the globe without cost as standout features. However, some negative feedback includes complaints about occasional crowding during popular shows and limited seating availability, which can affect comfort. A few also note that weather conditions during the summer events might pose challenges. Overall, the general consensus is highly favorable, with audiences appreciating Grand Performances' role as a vibrant cultural cornerstone offering free access to exceptional arts programming in the heart of Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Roman Romeo
Wonderful musical experience. Organized well. Security everywhere. Bar with cocktails for purchase upstairs. Family and pet friendly. Park at the Wells Fargo bldg, underground, plaza level, cross the street and you are there. Food trucks along Grand..
Keesha Ford
Great experience! Seeing some of your favorites outdoors and for free = Why Not! Also a great way to learn about new up and coming artists. Poetry nights are also a vibe.
Saba N
🇫🇷 DJ event was a lot of fun … great food options with long lines so you can chat with locals or tourists…the parmesan vendor had some good samples. Pics maybe later, maybe never 📸
Pauline Mendez
Nice, clean place to see bands perform. Just not much else there, only a Starbucks.
maricela zapian
This space is a gem, where art meets opportunity. Free performances brings music and performing arts to the masses. Tonight’s Dr Dre Orchestra was everything we needed and more. An incredible line up of DJs, musicians, and performers brining us the gift of music.
How to reach Grand Performances
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Why Grand Performances may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Grand Performances with your friends? Grand Performances offers an unparalleled gathering experience that blends culture, music, and community in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles. As the longest-running free outdoor concert series in the city, it presents an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere where people from all walks of life come together to enjoy high-quality global performing arts, making it a perfect destination for friends seeking a memorable and meaningful outing. The setting itself, California Plaza, is iconic and centrally located amid renowned cultural landmarks such as The Broad, MOCA, and Walt Disney Concert Hall, enhancing the outing with an artistic ambiance. With its impressive 4.8-star rating from over 250 reviews, Grand Performances clearly garners admiration and trust from the public. Here, you and your friends can experience a diverse range of performances—music, dance, and theater—all free and accessible to every age group, ensuring no one is left out. The vibrancy, excitement, and shared cultural energy make it a natural rally point, creating lasting bonds and communal joy in a lively, open-air environment that only Grand Performances can deliver.
What activities can you enjoy at Grand Performances? Grand Performances is a treasure trove of cultural activities that center predominantly on live performances but extend well beyond that. The cornerstone of the experience is its free outdoor concert series, showcasing world-class music acts spanning genres and cultures, from jazz and funk to Afrobeat and indigenous rhythms. These performances consistently attract celebrated names such as Stevie Wonder, Kamasi Washington, and Angelique Kidjo, alongside emerging global artists. Beyond music, the program includes electrifying dance shows and theatrical presentations, offering attendees an immersive slice of the performing arts spectrum. Children and adults alike can revel in the open-air space, turning the event into a family- and friend-friendly celebration. Moreover, special workshops, artist talks, and community engagement activities frequently complement the performances, allowing attendees to connect deeper with the art on display. The setting at California Plaza itself encourages gathering, with spacious lawn seating and accessible amenities, making it easy for groups to settle in comfortably and enjoy a full evening of entertainment.
Why is Grand Performances perfect for group meetups? The environment of Grand Performances is deliberately designed to foster social interaction and community spirit, which is ideal for groups of friends or family meetups. The free general admission means there is no financial barrier to entry, encouraging larger groups to come without concern for ticket costs. Its outdoor setting on California Plaza provides ample space for people to bring picnic blankets, chairs, and even small snacks to dine al fresco, blending socializing and entertainment effortlessly. The plaza’s proximity to multiple transit options—like the Metro Red and Purple lines and the historic Angels Flight railway—facilitates easy access for a diverse group traveling from different parts of the city. VIP reserved seating is also available for members and sponsors, ensuring comfort and exclusivity for groups wanting a more premium experience. With performances typically running Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 PM to 10 PM, the timing suits after-work gatherings or weekend outings, providing a perfect chance for people to decompress and connect. The overall vibe is relaxed yet celebratory, combining the thrill of live arts with the simple joy of being outdoors with friends.
How does Grand Performances celebrate diversity and community? Grand Performances champions cultural diversity, making it a unique hotspot for social meetups centered on shared values of inclusivity and respect. Its programming intentionally highlights global artistic expressions, bringing music and dance from many corners of the world right into the heart of Los Angeles. These performances act as cultural bridges, offering audiences insights into different traditions and stories through dynamic and engaging presentations. The organization’s mission to inspire community and celebrate diversity means that every event is a microcosm of Los Angeles's multifaceted population. This approach makes it highly appealing for groups who value social awareness and cultural enrichment alongside entertainment. Through its welcoming open-air model, it unites disparate communities within a single venue, sparking conversations and friendships that transcend backgrounds. This communal atmosphere is often lauded as “democracy in musical action,” reinforcing the idea that Grand Performances is a public gift fostering harmony and understanding.
What amenities enhance your experience at Grand Performances? While Grand Performances prides itself on delivering free artistic experiences, it also ensures attendees’ comfort and convenience through thoughtful amenities. The venue at California Plaza boasts easy access to restrooms, shaded seating areas, and designated picnic spaces, which are conducive to relaxed group gatherings. Public parking with discounts adds practicality for those driving in, and multiple nearby cultural institutions provide additional places to visit before or after the show. Attendees can also reach the plaza via efficient public transit options, including the Metro subway and historic Angels Flight funicular railway, reducing the hassle of urban commuting. Food trucks and vendors are frequently present during events, offering a variety of culinary options to complement the artistic experience, perfect for a casual dining meetup. For members and sponsors, reserved seating options guarantee a more exclusive, hassle-free experience, ensuring optimal views and a comfortable place for groups to settle in. These amenities combine to make Grand Performances not just a performance venue but a well-rounded destination for social outings.
What should you know about attending Grand Performances events? Planning to rally your friends at Grand Performances requires minimal but helpful preparation to maximize enjoyment. Most shows occur during the summer concert season on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 PM to 10 PM, so checking the official calendar online for specific event dates and performers is advisable. Arriving early is recommended since general admission seating operates on a first-come, first-served basis, especially for groups who want to sit together comfortably. Bringing your own blankets or lawn chairs is common practice, as this enhances the outdoor experience and ensures comfort during long performances. While food vendors are generally available, some attendees prefer packing a picnic, making the venue ideal for customizing your group’s dining experience. Since the concerts are held outdoors, it’s wise to prepare for weather conditions — dressing in layers and bringing sun protection or light jackets depending on the time of day. Being mindful of this will allow your group to enjoy uninterrupted entertainment and socializing fully.
How do people rate and review Grand Performances? With a remarkable 4.8-star average rating based on over 250 reviews, Grand Performances consistently enjoys high praise from visitors. Reviewers particularly highlight the exceptional quality of the free concerts and the diverse range of performances that keep every event fresh and exciting. The outdoor setting at California Plaza has earned acclaim for its breathtaking urban views and relaxed ambiance that enhances the live experience. Many guests commend the communal atmosphere where strangers feel welcomed and included, making it easy to strike up conversations or simply enjoy shared cultural moments with friends. Patrons also appreciate the organization’s mission to keep global performing arts accessible to all, noting that the absence of an admission fee makes it one of the most compelling cultural offerings in Los Angeles. This positive feedback underscores why the venue remains a beloved staple for locals and visitors aiming to combine arts, culture, and social connection.
What nearby attractions complement a visit to Grand Performances? Grand Performances’ prime location in the Grand Avenue Arts District offers visitors numerous opportunities to extend their outing with additional cultural experiences. Located just steps away are landmark institutions like the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), The Broad Museum, and Walt Disney Concert Hall, making it easy to create a rich thematic day of art and music for your group. Exploring these venues can deepen your appreciation of the arts and provide conversation starting points before or after the live performances. The nearby Grand Central Market offers a vibrant food scene with international cuisines, perfect for a group meal or casual snacks. Shopping and sightseeing options on Hollywood Boulevard and in Downtown LA’s historic districts offer further ways to engage with the city’s unique atmosphere. This concentration of cultural and culinary destinations ensures that meeting at Grand Performances can become the centerpiece of a memorable and diverse day out.
How does accessibility factor into a visit to Grand Performances? Accessibility is a priority at Grand Performances to ensure an inclusive experience for attendees of all abilities. The California Plaza venue is wheelchair accessible with ramps and smooth surfaces ideal for easy navigation. Its location near public transit, including Metro lines and the Angels Flight funicular, provides convenient access for those relying on mass transportation. Parking options include designated accessible spaces close to the venue entrance, further supporting ease of arrival. The organization’s commitment to publicly available arts means event staff are typically prepared to assist guests requiring additional accommodations. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone in your group, regardless of physical ability, can fully engage with the performances and communal atmosphere, thereby maintaining the festival’s inclusive spirit.
What makes Grand Performances stand out among cultural events in Los Angeles? Grand Performances distinguishes itself with its steadfast commitment to free, outdoor global arts in a stunning urban setting, maintaining this focus for nearly four decades. Its roster of distinguished and diverse artists introduces audiences to sounds and stories not always found in mainstream venues, thus broadening cultural horizons. Unlike many other events, it embraces a deep social mission to unite people through shared artistic experiences, which resonates strongly in today’s fragmented world. The outdoor, communal nature fosters a festive yet intimate atmosphere, where attendees can relax under the stars while enjoying elite performances. By blending accessibility, quality, and cultural richness, Grand Performances uniquely combines the feel of a grassroots street festival with curated artistic excellence, creating a treasured institution in Los Angeles’ cultural landscape.
What tips enhance the group meetup experience at Grand Performances? Hosting a meetup at Grand Performances can be optimized with some practical tips: First, coordinate arrival times to secure good seating together and bring enough chairs or blankets for comfort. Consider designating a meeting spot nearby to avoid confusion in large crowds. Bringing portable speakers or shared playlists for before or after the event can extend the musical vibe. Packing snacks or coordinating food truck visits helps keep energy high during longer shows, while wearing comfortable attire and shoes ensures everyone can relax and move freely. Finally, engaging with event social media channels beforehand can help plan around favorite acts and access any exclusive member perks, enhancing the overall group experience. These small measures help convert a simple gathering into a festive, culturally enriching outing that everyone will appreciate and remember.