Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Weekly What To Do: Thar She Blows Anime Expo...Oh, And We Guess Other Stuff Like 250 Years Of America

 
 
On Tuesday, July 7, the iconic La Brea Tar Pits will close its doors for a planned two-year renovation, meaning this week is the absolute final chance for the general public to see the Tar Pits museum in all of its retro glory before the transformation.

The museum will be open during regular hours, 9:30am - 5:00 pm on every day except this Saturday, July 4, when it will be closed for the holiday. Admission is $18 for adults, $14 for seniors and students, and $7 for children.

Admission is always free for NHMLAC Members, California Pre K–12 teachers with ID, Active or retired United States military with ID, CA EBT cardholders with ID, and USC Students and Faculty with ID. In addition, L.A. County residents receive free Museum Admission from 3-5 pm Monday through Friday.

Large crowds are expected (particularly July 3, 5 and 6), so reservations are strongly recommended.
 
Wednesday, July 1, 5-8PM
Collector’s Paradise 
5118 Lankershim Blvd North Hollywood, CA 91601
 
Join us in NoHo on Wednesday, July 1 for your chance to meet superstar creators MARC BERNARDIN, DERIC A. HUGHES and BENJAMIN RAAB!
 
BACKROOMS: Everything Must Go Edition w/Bonus Footage
The BACKROOMS: EVERYTHING MUST GO EDITION is an expanded theatrical cut of Kane Parsons' viral A24 horror phenomenon. Going out for the July 4th weekend, this version adds 15 minutes of brand-new, theatrically exclusive post-credit footage after the "original" version has run.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
July 2-5, 2026
Los Angeles Convention Center 
$$ 
 
"North America's largest celebration of Japanese pop culture returns with an expanded downtown Los Angeles campus, featuring exclusive premieres, industry panels, special guest appearances, live concerts, interactive experiences, and more.

Anime Expo 2026 expands beyond the traditional convention center footprint, creating one of its largest campuses to date across downtown Los Angeles. In addition to the Los Angeles Convention Center and L.A. LIVE destinations, programming will extend to Crypto.com Arena, home to J-POP SOUND CAPSULE, the AX Masquerade, and select Main Events; The Novo, hosting SUKEBAN's World Championship Fight and the JAPAN MUSIC VOCALOID Concert; Peacock Theater, featuring major industry presentations, premieres, and special events; and the Entertainment Arena at the L.A. LIVE Event Deck, offering additional entertainment and gaming experiences throughout the weekend."
 
 
July 2-Mid-July
Free-$ 

It's not only a shuttle stop and a nice place to stay for AX. No, this year, Little Tokyo is jam-packed with way too much going on. In year's past Little Tokyo has tried to capture people's attention and a least their wallets with a place to chill and eat after a full day of AX. Now, it seems like it's trying to be an expansion of AX itself. Follow the link above for a guide to the multiple pop-ups, exhibits, new stores and new cafe.
 
Saturday, July 4, Doors: 9pm 
Moroccan Lounge, Los Angeles
$13.33
 21+
 
Dive head first into a high-energy, anime-inspired Rave as WAKU WAKU makes its Los Angeles debut on Saturday, July 4th.

DJs Jak Syn & Kidd Nostalgia will be throwing down a steady supply of Anime-adjacent jams. Expect to find yourself dancing to a mix of kawaii bass, nightcore, synthwave, future funk, chiptune, EDM remixes & more.
 
 
 
 
Saturday, July 4-Sunday, July 5  •  8:30 PM-2 AM
Catch One Los Angeles, CA
$32.33
 21+
 
Two floors, five rooms, huge outdoor patio
Anime themes & mixes, hiphop, trap, pop, EDM, emo
Music by Anime Nightclub 3, DJ Taylor Senpai, Dimi, Johnny Romer, DJ French, Beari, Foureyes, and more
Special guests, game room, Beyblades, photobooth with prints
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Universal Studios Hollywood
Friday - Saturday, July 3 and 4
9:00 p.m. elaborate fireworks display
$$ 
 
 Universal Studios Hollywood celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with an elaborate fireworks display, live performances, themed décor and more. All festivities are included with Theme Park Admission.

Guests are welcome to join Universal Studios Hollywood in this star-spangled celebration of Independence Day on July 3rd and 4th. Indulge in limited time treats at participating CityWalk locations and experience the theme park’s innovative and immersive lands, rides and attractions accompanied by the live sounds of a fife and drum band, followed by the 9:00 p.m. all-new, spectacular fireworks display.
 
Sat, Jul 4 • 4 PM
Gloria Molina Grand ParkLos Angeles, CA
Free 
 
This is a free, all-day celebration for all of LA, rooted in the idea that our voices, our stories, and our bodies are powerful tools for change. Come move to global rhythms, explore LA's civil rights legacy, add your voice to an AR installation, and close the night under 700 drones tracing a murmuration across the DTLA sky. This one is for all of us. 🎆

It's free, it's outside, and it's yours.
 
 
 

The City of Arcadia cordially invites you to join us in commemorating America's 250th anniversary at a special community celebration honoring out nation's rich history and shared future. The event will take place on Saturday, July 4 from 6:00-9:00pm at Santa Anita Park. 
 
Jaws in 4K
Sat, Jul 4, 2026 | 2:30pm PT
David Geffen Theater
 $5

See Jaws (1975) on the big screen while Jaws: The Exhibition is on view. Steven Spielberg’s second feature as a director set the standard for edge-of-your-seat suspense and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. A box office record-breaker as well as a Best Picture nominee, Jaws earned Oscars for film editing, sound, and John Williams’s thrilling score.
 
The Great Muppet Caper in 4K
Sat, Jul 4, 2026 | 11am PT
Ted Mann Theater
$5
 
This second Muppets feature film casts Kermit the Frog, Fozzie Bear, and the Great Gonzo as intrepid journalists on location in London to interview fashion icon Lady Holiday about the recent theft of her jewels. Hired as Holiday’s secretary is aspiring model Miss Piggy, who poses as her boss when Kermit arrives. Mistaken identities, espionage, and hijinks abound in this kooky escapade that features cameos from comedy greats Charles Grodin, John Cleese, and international raconteur Peter Ustinov. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Music (Original Song) for the delightful “The First Time It Happens.” 
 
FREE ICE CREAM AT LANDMARK THEATRES PASADENA
One Day Only!
Sunday, July 5th Starting at 10:30am
While supplies last!

Also available for purchase at the Concessions Stand!
 
Extra To Do:
 
@ Hammer 
Free

Watch the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup live at the Hammer—on big screens, with friends and fellow fanatics, in an indoor/outdoor setting where art and sport come together. Between matches, explore our free exhibitions, shop the store, or grab a bite at our restaurant. Drinks available for select matches. Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed.
 
They're back and ready to get you funky, check out the

June-September 
20 Events
Free, All-Ages 
 
"...Outdoor parties with iconic cultural partners across Southern California. We’ve got something for everyone — DJs, live bands, special exhibitions, food and libations, and tons of free fun. It’s the perfect way to find music you love, discover something new, and connect with your community. Don’t miss out — grab your friends and experience LA like never before."

SoCal music and art lovers can save the dates for this year’s “Off the 405” artist lineup. The free outdoor concerts at the Getty Center museum include aja monet on May 30, Hunx and His Punx on June 13, Leenalchi on July 11, Horse Lords on July 25, and Laurel Halo on August 22. 

Online reservations will be available about three weeks before each concert on Getty’s website, with the ticket release dates available now on the calendar. On the day of each concert, attendees can catch a DJ in the courtyard at 6 p.m., pack a picnic or enjoy Getty drinks and snacks, and explore the art galleries and current exhibitions before the main artist begins at 7:30 p.m. 
 
 
L.A. River Expeditions is back for the Summer. Find the one-of-a-kind urban kayaking experience that's right for you! Sepulveda Basin Recreation Zone or Elysian Valley Recreation Zone 
 
UCB, a cheapo comedy show almost every night, see comedians before they make podcasts and have
stories about the UCB and before they hit the big time.



 
Little Tokyo Farmers' Market Saturdays
9:00 am - 2:00 pm every Sat
Isamu Noguchi Plaza
244 S. San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Free
 
"Join us at the Little Tokyo Farmers’ Market, a vibrant new Saturday tradition in the heart of Little Tokyo. Presented in partnership by JACCC and Food Access LA, this weekly market brings together fresh, affordable produce, rich cultural experiences, and meaningful community connection."
 

 

American Cinematheque-A celebrated independent theater group that brings both the talent and catalog of films to make for some of LA's best movie nights.
 
 
Cinespia -This hosts screenings outside at iconic venues including The Hollywood Forever Cemetery, The Greek Theatre, and Los Angeles Historic Park.
 

Secret Movie Club-Special edition posters and a large swatch of films to see.


Check out classics and cult movies just a few stories above street level. Rooftop Movies at The Montalbán. & Rooftop Cinema Club

 New Bev-Tarantino owned independent theater with old school style
 
Brain Dead Studios-manages to fill its schedule almost every night
611 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
 
Vidiots -A one-of-a-kind hub for film lovers, filmmakers, and everyone curious about cinema. A small theater is more than made-up for with the constant content and special screenings.
4884 Eagle Rock Blvd
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Mikan Bakery & More Grand Opening This Week

 


The new Japanese bakery, Mikan Bakery & More, comes to the valley from the same chain that gave us the Jinya ramen bars. Good timing with AX in town and you wanted to grab a treat in the valley.
 
Encino
17237 Ventura Blvd. Unit C, Encino, CA 91316 opens in new window
747-330-1477
Store Hours
June 30 – July 2: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Grand Opening
July 3
Regular Hours Beginning July 3
Tuesday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
 
You can read more about it at What Now LA
 
 
 
 

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

AX Is The Priciest Of Anime Conventions

Not the greatest news to hear. But, at the same time it is the largest anime convention in the US and has the most content. Would it be sweeter if it was cheaper, Hell yes.

And, always remember, L.A. Live is a pit of scum and villainy and food costing more than it's worth. Frankly, the food at the convention center sucks too. If you can wait and eat outside of the area do it or bring bento boxes/lunch. Bring re-usable water bottles. Water was $8 a bottle last year. F the convention center.

BLEACH LA : The Artist Collective & Mori Calliope Special POP-UP

We've got even more happening in Little Tokyo just in time for AX.
 
BLEACH LA : The Artist Collective
Opening July 1 -  July 5, 2026
Dates subject to change.
Add opening hours
    8am - 5pm
    Open July 4th
    Sunday 8-4pm
Japanese American Cultural & Community Center
George J. Doizaki Gallery
Los Angeles, CA
244 San Pedro Street
Los Angeles, California 90012
 
A limited-time exhibition featuring original works from more than 20 contemporary artists, each
offering their own unique interpretation of the BLEACH universe.
 
Original artwork inspired by BLEACH characters, scenes and themes

Artist-created reinterpretations and original concepts inspired by the world of BLEACH

Exclusive art prints and merchandise

A digital gallery experience and online store
 
From the press release:
Timed to Anime Expo and the upcoming premiere of BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Calamity, the BLEACH LA: The Artist Collective Artist Gallery transforms Los Angeles' Japanese American Cultural & Community Center into an immersive celebration of one of anime's most influential franchises. 


Headlined by a striking original portrait inspired by Captain Shunsui Kyoraku from internationally acclaimed artist Audrey Kawasaki, highlights include Tokidoki founder Simone Legno's signature kawaii interpretation of fan-favorite characters, Yoskay Yamamoto's ethereal take on Rukia, Jasper Wong's original portraits of Soi Fon and Captain Unohana, Greg Mike's vibrant abstract reimagining of Grimmjow and Nel, and McFlyy's streetwear-inspired tribute to the series' iconic heroes. The exhibition also features works by Persue, Askew, Tracie Ching, Brendan Monroe and more, alongside three custom BLEACH-inspired blades (high-performance surfboards) by Jack Soren.

 
The exhibition features more than 20 internationally acclaimed artists from the worlds of fine art, street culture, illustration and contemporary design, and presents never-before-seen original works inspired by the iconic characters, unforgettable battles and rich mythology that have captivated fans for more than two decades.

Select exclusive art prints and merchandise will be available for sale, offering fans and collectors a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of BLEACH history.



Mori Calliope Special POP-UP
Venues:
Anime Jungle (319 East 2nd Street Suite 103, Los Angeles)
Anime Jungle booth inside the Anime Expo 2026 venue
Dates: July 2 – July 12, 2026
*The Anime Expo 2026 booth will operate for four days, from July 2 to July 5, in accordance with the convention’s schedule.
Venue-Exclusive Bonus: Original shopping bag
Screening Information

“Mori Calliope 2nd Concert ‘Grimoire’” World’s Earliest Advance Screening
Dates & Showtimes: 
July 11 Shows
1. 4:00 PM (local time)
2. 6:30 PM (local time)
July 12 Shows
1. 4:00 PM (local time)
2. 6:30 PM (local time)
Venue: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown Los Angeles
Ticket Information
Price: $25
Sale Starts: July 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM (Local time; first-come, first-served)
Tickets will be available through the theater’s website (https://drafthouse.com/los-angeles). Please contact the theater for more information.
Ticket inquiries: https://drafthouse.com/los-angeles/theaters
 
From press release: 
Mori Calliope, a VTuber artist known for her bilingual Japanese-English lyrics and outstanding rap skills, has announced that she will host a special pop-up store in Los Angeles, USA, from July 2 to July 12. The pop-up will span two locations: the main Anime Jungle store in Little Tokyo, and the Anime Jungle booth at Anime Expo 2026 during the convention’s four-day run (July 2–5). Both sites will feature Calliope’s entire post-major-debut product lineup alongside limited-edition Reimei Compass T-shirts, and customers will receive a venue-exclusive shopping bag with any purchase.

Additionally, to commemorate the release of the live Blu-ray for “Mori Calliope 2nd Concert ‘Grimoire’” (held at the Hollywood Palladium in February 2025), the world’s earliest advance screening will take place in Los Angeles, the very city where the concert was held. The screening will run on July 11 and July 12 at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown Los Angeles, with afternoon and evening sessions each day for a total of four screenings. Tickets will go on sale starting July 2nd at 10:00 AM Pacific Time.

Palm Springs ShortFest 2026: Late Night


 By Jonathan Bilski

Welcome! Can you hold it in? Because in Don't Puke our main character could not and we go to experience it all in first person like a VR Drunk Simulator. Did it set the tone for the night? No, that would be the child murder and organ harvesting in What Are Grandchildren Made Of ? Late Night is its own animal of weird, gross and comedy sketch that goes all the way there. And, we dived right into some weird and heartfelt stuff.

Q&A after with some of the directors/crew
One such heartfelt film i have a animated/directed by Rory Waudby-Tolley starts off as a casual listing rap of what the animator has. It slowly divulges into what he doesn't have. And, does it even matter in the long run? Another, much more dour animation, What We Leave Behind, shares a story of rape within a youth hockey league. 

We leave that shocking animation for more over-the-top works with CGI feats for the eyes that make them hurt like Um about a creation myth story about bird people and MANTIS STREAM! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE which was on par with Don't Puke on making the audience want to vomit. It, like the previous nights horror block, took swings at current social media. A marriage proposal goes utterly wrong on stream. And it keeps, getting worse for the guy who proposed. Also, weird to see another praying mantis short after that other animated short simply titled Praying Mantis from the Thrills & Chills block.

Deuce Purgatory by Sydney Adams might have been the closes to a "normal" comedy sketch with an utterly terrible tennis player named Shelly and her sucking at a mixed doubles tennis match. There's blood, a talking trophy with long hair and dream sequences far too often. And, a car that needs to be put out of it's misery by the end of the short. Everything about the short makes me think there should be a sketch show featuring the people in and behind it.

What set it apart was not only how funny it was, but the effort put in. The ending credits and title screen have a 16-bit theme. The even made cute chibi 16-bit versions of the cast an animated them for the ending. And, a self -worth achievement. That's a lot of work for a short.

Deuce Purgatory came together thanks to Palm Springs ShortFest. People saw the work of the director three years prior and tapped her to make this new short.


The Goblin Games Pop-Up Jul 11th

 

The Goblin Games Pop-Up
Saturday, Jul 11
4:00pm – 10:00pm
Revenge Of, 3420 Eagle Rock Blvd, Unit A, Los Angeles, CA
Free 
 
THE GOBLIN GAMES ARE HERE!!!
A pop up by artist Wizard of Barge featuring art installations, a goblin costume contest, all-goblin flash tattoos, Magic the Gathering tournament, merch sale + more!
 
This goblin themed pop-up is from Dakota Cates, aka Wizard of Barge. His special edition decks of Magic the Gathering cards sold out way too fast and brought up how the market right now is a little unfair to fans of any card games thanks to scalpers. You can read more about it a Polygon below.
 

Monday, June 29, 2026

THE GHOST IN THE SHELL (2026) – New Episode Premiere, Panel & 1995 Screening Sunday July 5th

 

$23.57

waitlist only as of writing this 

"Join us for an early preview and exclusive panel celebrating the premiere of THE GHOST IN THE SHELL, the landmark cyberpunk series reborn as a new TV anime that will be streaming on July 7, 2026.

Beginning with Shirow Masamune’s 1989 manga, Ghost in the Shell has transcended media boundaries expanding into anime, live action film, and video games, and influenced countless creators worldwide. The new TV anime is produced by Science SARU, acclaimed for Inu-oh, The Colors Within, and DAN DA DAN!"