LA Art Show: There’s no fast-track road to the future, alas, but starting a new year with thousands of new works at a new LA Art Show is a solid way to authentically connect with what is next. The Latin American Pavilion is debuting this year, and Art of Contemporary Africa will make its inaugural appearance. Dubbed “LA’s largest and longest-running art fair,” this enormous and elevating extravaganza unfurls at LA Convention Center through Jan. 11.
Smorgasburg LA 2026 Grand Opening: A little sun is in the works for the weekend, which feels like something nice and novel after several damp days. How to make the most of the almost spring-like feel in the air? Stop by ROW DTLA for this foodie wonderland, which is returning from its holiday hiatus. Over a dozen vendors will make their first appearances, but Smorg classics will make a strong showing, too. The date? It’s a Sunday thing, so stop by Jan. 11.
Pageant of the Masters tryouts: How extremely still can you be? For a few seconds, maybe you can stay statue-like, but if you can hold a perfect pose for a couple of minutes, you may want to swing by Laguna Beach and audition for this famous stage show. It’s a storied summer event, lasting two months, so make sure you can put in the nights. A family fest will take place Jan. 10 and 11, but the tryouts start Jan. 9.
Oshogatsu Family Festival: Embrace the Year of the Horse, and all of the auspicious and uplifting things soon to come, by making your way to JACCC Plaza Jan. 11 for a free day of cute crafts, photo opportunities, and live music. While entry is complimentary, there is a ticket button on the site, so let organizers know you’ll be there ahead of time. The Japanese American National Museum is behind the sweet celebration.
David Bowie birthday skate: Moonlight Rollerway is the shake-your-stuff spot for a bevy of boogie-fun, get-out-and-move theme nights this month, but the party popping up Jan. 10 is an early-in-the-year tradition for the Glendale attraction. Pay homage to the realm of Ziggy Stardust, “Heroes,” and the Goblin King by skating to Bowie-tastic hits all night, all to honor the icon’s birthday.