DTLB A+D Walk: The first few months of the year in art-loving Southern California are traditionally ultra-creative, with cool events galore. The DTLB A+D Walk in Downtown Long Beach Design District is a scintillating stand-out, with artworks to admire, conversations to enjoy, and plenty to do around the Design District from 2 to 7 p.m. Feb. 14. The Legacy & Unity Fest: Black Future Celebration and a Future Fest pop-up are also on the Feb. 14 Long Beach roster, adding to the day’s sublime spirit. Attune 1.0 is visiting Long Beach with free art goodness Feb. 14, too, and other spots around the region.
Mardi Gras Weekend: The bright beads will be catching the sunlight and beignets will be upping the flavor as we dance our way to the Original Farmers Market and ROW DTLA in the days ahead of Fat Tuesday. The public market at Third & Fairfax will hold its annual Mutti Gras Pet Parade on Feb. 14 at noon, with other celebratory doings throughout the weekend (Feb. 14 and 15, with fun on Mardi Gras proper, Feb. 17), while Smorgasburg LA will feature Mardi-yummy meals Feb. 15 (entry to both spots is free).
Studio Ghibli’s “PONYO”: Water, wonder, and whimsy weave together in this celebrated animated classic, a spunky cinematic adventure that debuted in 2008 to great acclaim. That acclaim continues at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, thanks to a new “Ponyo”-themed exhibit, a show that will feature a number of treasures and items never before viewed in North America. The exhibit opens Feb. 14, and advance tickets, especially on weekends, are encouraged.
Gloria Molina Grand Park’s “Love Notes”: Radio dedications are one of the uplifting inspirations of this free Feb. 14 festivity, a music-filled celebration of soulful songs, awesome oldies, and Valentine’s joy. Revelers of all ages are invited to the Valentine’s Day happening at Gloria Molina Grand Park, which shimmers and sways from 3 to 7 o’clock; look for a light show, created by drones, to add to the holiday magic.
21st Annual National Bulldog Beauty Contest: While this lovable Long Beach showdown does offer a sweet spotlight to the bull-ish beauties of the canine world, all pups are invited to participate in the lighthearted contests. There’s one for seniors, and “Best Siblings,” too, and every participating pup will get the applause and adoration of onlookers. It’s strutting and getting sassy near Rosie’s Dog Beach on Feb. 15.