Conscious Life Expo, Feb. 9-11
For its 16th year, attendees will gather to enrich their mind, body and spirit through a higher consciousness. Guests include David Wilcox from Ancient Aliens, former NFL star and cannabis advocate John Salley, George Noory from Coast to Coast AM and many acclaimed authors and experts.
Hilton Los Angeles Airport, Los Angeles
consciouslifeexpo.com
9th Annual Edwardian Ball & World’s Faire, Feb. 10
This steampunk-themed ball will boast authentic steam-powered machinery, bicycle-powered carnival rides, a Museum of Wonders and circus-themed decor. It’s all based upon the unsettling graphic art of writer and illustrator Edward Gorey.
The Globe Theatre, Los Angeles
edwardianball.com/los-angeles
Ooh La La Lucha!, Feb. 14-15
Lucha VaVOOM presents Ooh La La Lucha!, a “twisted night” of masked Mexican wrestling, acrobats and burlesque for Valentine’s Day. Confirmed guests include comedian Ron Funches, Lucha Libre wrestler Rey Fenix and neo-burlesque dancer Michelle L’amour.
Mayan Theatre, Los Angeles
luchavavoom.com
Anthrax
Nothing says “Happy Valentine’s Day” like the thrash metal of Anthrax. With opening sets from Killswitch Engage and Havok, Anthrax will not disappoint fans of metal, especially the ones that grew up during the ’80s, when Anthrax was king.
House of Blues Anaheim
houseofblues.theatreanaheim.com
“Toast to Ghost” Valentine’s Date Night, Feb. 14, 16, 17
The scene in the classic 1990 film Ghost featuring Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze at the pottery wheel is now synonymous with romance. That’s why the theme of this wheel-thrown pottery date night is all about the film’s legacy. Of course, “Unchained Melody” will be played and alcohol will be served.
Clay on First, Long Beach
clayonfirst.com
Tet Festival, Feb. 16-18
China isn’t the only country that celebrates the new year in February. It’s also the Vietnamese New Year, and Orange County is full to the brim with Vietnamese culture.
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
tetfestival.org
Golden Dragon Parade, Feb. 17
For its 119th year, the Golden Dragon Parade returns to Los Angeles, drawing thousands of spectators each year to see one of Southern California’s best celebrations of Chinese culture. Since the ’50s, Los Angeles has imported dragon heads from Hong Kong to adorn the dancers.
Chinatown, Los Angeles
lagoldendragonparade.com
The Hemp & Cannabis Fair Ventura, Feb. 17-18
The Hemp & Cannabis (THC) Fair is bringing vendors, educational sessions and networking to the Ventura area. Cultivators, processors and common consumers are all invited to attend.
Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ventura
thcfair.com
Long Beach Comic Expo, Feb. 17-18
Meet dozens of Marvel and DC Comics creators, artists, writers and guests in cosplay. Celebrity guests include actress Gigi Edgley, Stranger Things’ Jackie Dallas, The New York Times bestselling author Mark Waid and professional wrestler Rikishi.
Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach
longbeachcomicexpo.com
African-American Festival, Feb. 24-25
Celebrate the rich history of African-American and African cultures with hip hop, break dancers, jazz and drum circles. Some guests have come all the way from West Africa.
Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach
aquariumofpacific.org