"LA's Friday Fun: Punk Rockers, Dance Debuts, and Labor Day Kickoff"

Welcome to Things to Do in Los Angeles for Friday, August 29, 2025! Whether you’re a local Angeleno or visiting the City of Angels, you’ve landed in the right spot for today’s must-see events, city news, and some hidden gems to energize your Friday.This morning in LA, the city is waking up to classic late-summer sunshine with crisp blue skies, mild coastal breezes, and air quality that’s comfortably good—a perfect setup for a weekend on the move. Anticipation is high as Labor Day celebrations ramp up, bringing a festive buzz across the city[1][5].Highlights happening today:- For punk rock fans, Red Kross brings their SoCal anthems to a free outdoor show at Levitt Pavilion in MacArthur Park tonight. Expect a high-energy homecoming vibe and an eclectic crowd of music lovers[1].- Contemporary dance aficionados, don’t miss the double bill of FOG presented by ate9 and Jacob Jonas The Company at Kirk Douglas Theater in Culver City, featuring genre-bending choreography and live music for a memorable night out[1].- Art and literature buffs can dive into ‘Shaper of God: Apple Valley Autonomy’ at the California African American Museum, an exhibit inspired by the legendary LA author Octavia Butler, blending sculpture and imagination in ways only LA can[1].- Families should check out the Los Angeles International Children’s Film Festival in Altadena—think filmmaker Q&As and imaginative storytelling perfect for kids and parents alike[5].- Night owls, the Labubu Rave at Catch One promises one of the biggest parties in the city tonight, powered by top DJs and all-night energy for fans of electronic and club music (18+)[9].In today’s news, LA officials are celebrating continued drops in crime rates, yet public safety remains in focus as Governor Newsom dispatches extra CHP officers to support local law enforcement, with Mayor Bass emphasizing community partnership[7]. Dodgers fans can look forward to an away game tonight, and for transit riders, Metro is prepping for increased Labor Day service—so expect more trains and late-night rides across popular lines.Fresh on the food scene, rumor has it a new Korean BBQ hot spot launched in Koreatown this week, and foodies are already lining up for weekend reservations. Meanwhile, for those itching to escape the city, today’s your last chance to hop on the $2 “Beach Bus” from East LA to Santa Monica, so pack that sunscreen and enjoy the sand[6].If you’re seeking an iconic LA experience, don’t skip a stroll down Venice Beach for street performers, muscle beach action, and world-class people-watching[4]. Art lovers will enjoy the Armory Center’s interactive workshops in Pasadena, while thrill seekers can catch a ride out to Six Flags Magic Mountain for coasters and carnival vibes[4][5].Pro tip: Many museums across LA offer free admission on select Fridays, so check before you go and catch some uncrowded culture without breaking the bank. And did you know? The Hollywood sign is nearly a century old and has its own dedicated security team watching round-the-clock—a true Hollywood story!Looking ahead, tomorrow brings the KCRW Summer Nights bash at the Bowers Museum, candlelit concerts, and outdoor movie screenings under the stars. Tune in again for the latest picks and inside scoop on LA’s endlessly exciting weekend lineup.