Welcome back to GTFO LA!, your guide to the very best stuff to do in Los Angeles every weekend, designed to get you out of the f*cking house. It's a short week and we've got a special Fourth of July events guide featuring cars, fireworks, and cumbia.
Wednesday, July 4
Fireworks at Grand Park
[dropcap size=big]T[/dropcap]here's no other place to experience Fourth of July fireworks than in the heart of the city. With views of historic buildings like City Hall, Grand Park guarantees epic views around downtown. The free show is the largest in Los Angeles County. Whether you come at 3 pm or 7 pm, Grand Park and The Music Center's Fourth of July Block Party will be the place to come for a picnic or over 40 food vendors, dance, art-making, soccer and a firework show to top the night. Leading up to the show, two stages will feature live music and DJs. The fireworks — which will soar more than 500 feet — will start at 9 pm, so bring family, friends and your favorite food, but just don't head over too late (or bring banned objects). More info here.
July 4 American Cruise-In at Petersen Automotive Museum
[dropcap size=big]A[/dropcap]dmire some of the country's most beautiful cars at the Petersen's first-ever American Cruise-In. The museum — home to exhibits like "The Porsche Effect" and the ranfla exhibit named "The High Art of Riding Low — wants to pay homage to the cars that shaped the American automotive industry by inviting Angelenos to bring their hot rods and muscles cars out to the third-floor parking structure. American or not, any classic car is invited to be on display in their fourth of July showroom. The event will include conversations and complimentary breakfast items. No car is necessary to attend this special automotive event. Members get early access. More info here.
Friday, July 6
Boleros de Noche
[dropcap size=big]T[/dropcap]he bolero is one of the most romantic music genres sung in Spanish and on Friday, the Ford Theatres will host a night in honor of it. As a part of a series, Mexican bolero legends Los Tres Reyes will perform alongside Grammy-winner Rosalie Rodriguez. If you're not familiar with the genre, boleros originated in Cuba, but became more well known when they reached Mexico. Formed in 1957, Los Tres Reyes are recognized as having evolved the genre in Mexico. Romantic lyrics and calm, smooth rhythms make up bolero music. The Ford Theatres wants to preserve the culture and share it with multiple generations. The series was launched by Los Angeles musician Roberto Carlos, brother of Pepe Carlos of La Santa Cecilia, in order to uplift and celebrate the beloved music genre of Latin America. More info here.
Saturday, July 7
Celso Piña at Levitt L.A.
[dropcap size=big]E[/dropcap]l rey del accordion is the latest big name in Latino music set to perform at Levitt L.A.'s free concert series this summer. The legendary accordion player—if you didn't catch that Spanish phrase earlier—is one of the most known singers and musicians of cumbia music, if not the king. He's toured the world, bringing audiences a taste of his take on the fast-paced cumbia music. If you have not seen him live, this concert is a must. Bring a dance partner to this one. More info here.
The Rap Contest
[dropcap size=big]T[/dropcap]he Glass House in Pomona will be the ring in which rappers and MCs go head to head in a rap battle royal that tours many cities throughout the country. The contest will feature 32 contestants that are battling it out for a cash prize of $1,000. They'll have a little more than a minute to give it their best. The winner will need to come out on top in a total of five rounds. Who will win this rap battle? Be there to witness the talent and creativity of the rapper who comes out on top. More info here.
Summertime Long Beach
[dropcap size=big]A[/dropcap] few months back we let you know that Snoop Dogg , Ice Cube and The Game were going to be headlining a summer concert in the LBC that was guaranteed to be fire. Well, the time has come. Summertime Long Beach is happening this weekend and the lineup includes a lot of artists you've heard throughout the years. From the Bay Area's E-40 and Too $hort to Waren G, Ja Rule, Ashanti and DJ Quick— hip hop and rhythm and blues superstars will take the stage all day long at the historic Queen Mary. GA passes are soldout, but you can still go by purchasing a ticket from a fan-to-fan ticket exchange system. More info here.
Thundercat Mural Unveiling at Northside Vinyl in Long Beach
[dropcap size=big]N[/dropcap]orthside Vinyl shop and music-art-community space is unveiling a mural of singer-songwriter and bass player Thundercat. The musician hails from Los Angeles and has worked with the likes of Kendrick Lamar. The unveiling party will be one of the only times to see the art piece live as the music store will be closing soon. Come check out the mural and some records too! More info here.
Sunday July 8
Cheech and Chong
[dropcap size=big]T[/dropcap]he Grammy Museum is celebrating 40 years of Up In Smoke, the film known as a "stoner comedy film" and cult classic that introduced us to Cheech and Chong, two characters we now know and love. On display until 2019, the exhibit will have scripts on display, the master tape for the soundtrack, pieces from Cheech Marin's "Blazing Chicano's Guitar" collection, which include iconic artist Chaz Bojorquez, and more. More info here.
