by Editor | Jan 24, 2019 | Abbot Kinney 1st Fridays, Abbot Kinney First Fridays, Food Truck Events
It’s a Great Year for Abbot Kinney First Fridays! @AbbotKinney1st an Independent Blog Published for 11 Years is here to help you with the First Fridays Calendar updated for 2019.
January 4
January is jumpin’ already! Looking for the scoop on First Fridays, such as when it starts, parking tips and more?
See our First Fridays FAQ page!
March 1
March is a marvelous month for checking out shops and Venice area businesses.
April 5
April is awesome when you get your tastebuds on some great food on Abbot Kinney Bl in Venice! Can’t make it to First Fridays? Get the scoop on more
food truck events in Los Angeles.
August 2
Surf’s up and summer is in full swing! If you can’t make it to First Fridays you still can check out our
Summer Guide for SouthBay.
December 6
December is decked with holiday events! Have you checked out
AKFF on Instagram yet for more events and awesome food snaps?
by Raven Guzman | Jul 13, 2017 | Food Truck Events, South Bay
Summer brings us free outdoor shows and festivals! So where to begin.. those who love anything art related there are a few events coming up to peak your interest.

Magala Cove Lawn Art Show
Malaga Cove Lawn Art Show
This event consists of original pieces from local artists in a family friendly environment. The type of art varies including jewelry, 3D sculptures, paintings, ceramics and photography. The artist attend the events to chat with people who are interested in buying their work and just to enjoy a friendly conversation with a fan. This art show has been a tradition in Palos Verdes for about 75 years.
Malaga Cove Plaza, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
July 15-16th 10am-5pm
South Bay Greek Festival
For all my foodies out there, the Greek festivals combines great food and a dope cultural experience. The festival brings in mostly locals who go to the church or who live near it. The festival showcases traditional dances and tasty authentic Greek food. The vibe is always welcoming to newcomers and those who just want to learn about and experience a new culture. The admission fee is $2 for adults, $1 for seniors and children are free. The tickets will be sold at the door.
722 Knob Hill Ave, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
July 14: 5pm-10pm July 15: 12pm-10pm July 16: 12pm-9pm
International Surf Festival
The 56th annual event that incorporates swimming, surfing, and various other beach activities into the entire
festival. In the past there were different festivals for each beach city however this festival has combined the South bay area into one 4 day festival. Participants range from ages 8-80 years old in any of the events available. The beach is filled with sponsors passing out free samples and fun activities for those of us who just want to walk around and scope the scene. To participate in the festival sign ups are located on their website.
International Surf Festival Details
Manhattan Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
August 3, 4, & 6
R-10 Paddleboard Race
The 20th annual event is sponsored by a local Mexican restaurant, Riviera Mexican Grill. This event is an event connected to the International Surf Festival. This is a paddle boarding event that is held at Torrance Beach, participants are to paddle 7 miles out and come back to shore as fast as possible. Each participant will receive a t-shirt and a free breakfast burrito complimentary from Riviera Mexican Grill. Online registration is $40 and Beach registration is $50. There is going to be a raffle held for all the participants with some exciting prizes. So come out and support or join in on the fun!
R-10 Paddle Board Details
387 Paseo De La Playa, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
August 6 at 8am
Redondo Beach: Cruise at the Beach
This event is for all my car fanatics, the Redondo Beach’s Ruby’s host a classic car meet up where owners of these cars post up and admire each others cars. The event is located in the parking lot of Ruby’s near seaside lagoon which is a fun idea for families to check out after a day at the beach. The vibes are always great around this area and especially at car shows. Everyone is open to talk about their cars or give advice to anyone who is restoring a classic car. The event does not exclude newer models or even motorcycles, it’s a friendly atmosphere that most families in the area attend. This is a great event to come take pictures and enjoy the vibes of the beach and the company of great friends.
245 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
April-October 27, Every Friday from 4pm-8pm
Manhattan Beach Concerts: Polliwog Park
This is an annual event that takes place starting the first weekend in July until the first weekend in September. This usually consists of local bands or bands in the surrounding area coming together for an afternoon of music. The performances are free to anyone who attends and likes to chill out to music. Most of the bands performing are cover bands. Usually people who attend this event bring blankets to sit on and make it an evening picnic. This event usually attracts locals and families but are open to anyone who would like to check it out. The surrounding area is a great place to chill and not too far away from the pier and local shops. The link below shows the lineup of bands that are to play each sunday. So come out and check out some great cover bands and chill vibes.
Manhattan Beach Concert Line Up
1601 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Thru September 5, every Sunday starting at 5pm
San Pedro: Music By The Sea
This event has live music starting around 12pm and vendors selling crafts and even massages. It is held at a local park in San Pedro and it begins the first Sunday in July and ends on July 30. It is an annual event that brings out all the locals from San Pedro and the surrounding area. It is a great place to relax and have a nice BBQ on a Sunday afternoon. The event is free and welcoming to anyone who would like to attend. I have grown up attending this event and I have to say there has never been a bad vibe present at this event. Mostly families and friends come out for the music and the overall vibes. The only down fall of the event is the parking situation, so come early for a good spot! I’ll catch you guys out there!
Music by the Sea line up
807 W Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro, CA 90731
July 2 to July 30, every Sunday from 12pm-5pm
by Raven Guzman | Jun 12, 2017 | Food Truck Events, Food Trucks

Kogi Food Truck
If you’re looking for good vibes and a great meal, you can find it at Narbonne High School where a group of food trucks meet every Thursday. The vibe surrounding the area is welcoming to newcomers and regulars.
Recently, I visited the food trucks for the first time and I had a great experience with the locals and the staff who ran the food trucks.
This event has been trending on Facebook with amazing pictures of gourmet food and hundreds of reviews just in case newcomers are unsure about the vibes. The prices are typically ranging from $5 to $12 which comes with a good portion of food. Typically there are about six different food trucks that attend this event, which range from salty and savory to a sweet treat.

The Pacman Burger
I was able to check out two out of the six trucks, one of which was called the White Rabbit. This truck served a fusion of Filipino with a Mexican twist on their cuisine. However the Kogi food truck peaked my interest the most because of their Pacman burger. This food truck served a fusion of Korean bbq, Mexican and American food.
The Pacman burger is classified as a fan favorite and from experience I can see why. This burger was unlike any burger that I have ever tasted. Instead of the typical hamburger patty, they used shredded short ribs, with kimchi and a chimichurri sauce as the condiments. I definitely recommend everyone to check out this food truck event especially if you are feeling adventurous.
Every Thursday 5:30-9pm
Narbonne High School
24300 Western Ave.
Harbor City, CA 90710
by Editor | Apr 13, 2017 | AKFF Venice VIP CLUB, Food Truck Events, Food Trucks
Food Trucks List:

Photo Courtesy of Lunch at the Arts
Lunch at the Arts
No lunch plans? No problem. On Thursday, April 13 11am-2pm head on down to Lunch at the Arts to grab lunch from gourmet food trucks! Attendees will have many options to choose from like lobster rolls, Asian Fusion cuisine, gourmet burgers, and the best grill cheese sandwiches!
1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA

Photo Courtesy of 2-17 Long Beach Craft Beer & Oysters
2017 Long Beach Craft Beer & Oyster Festival
Grab your tickets ASAP because the Long Beach Craft Beer & Oyster Festival is known to be full of fun! The festival will include craft beer, oysters, gourmet food and live music for all attendees to enjoy! Don’t miss out! Saturday, April 15 1pm-4pm.
Shoreline Aquatic Park, 200 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA
Get Festival Tickets >

Photo Courtesy of DTLA Arts Festival 2017
DTLA Arts Festival
Don’t have any plans for Easter Sunday? Trying to find something exciting to do? Have some fun Sunday, April 16 11am-8:30pm enjoying live music, food trucks, stage talent, and more!
More Spring Break Festival Details >
Location TBA
Bonus Event:
Pico Block Party Spring 2017
Celebrate the cultural treasures of the Pico neighborhood with Santa Monica’s best food trucks, dancing, live music, performances, exhibitions, and so many more fun activities for the whole community to enjoy April 29 from 1-5pm!
18th Street Arts Center, 1639 18th St, Santa Monica, CA
More Deets On Block Party Here >
Exclusive Food Truck Specials from AKFF:
How do you get these Awesome Food Truck Specials? Sign up with AKFF VIP Club and grab your specials today!
Made In Brooklyn Pizza
AKFF VIP Club Special:
Buy 2 slices get a FREE can of soda

Dogtown Dogs
AKFF VIP Club Special:
Buy 2 dogs get FREE small tot
Funky Chef Cafe

Got Foodtruck& #abbotkinney1st Love?
Show it here: https://www.patreon.com/abbotkinney1st
AKFF VIP Club Special:
25% OFF ALL menu items
Get Access to Food Truck, Food & Fitness Rewards:
by Editor | Mar 9, 2017 | Abbot Kinney 1st Fridays, Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Food Truck Events, LA Events, Santa Monica Events, Venice, Venice Art Openings, Venice Artists
Experience Westside Like Never Before!
Just Added! New March Events:

Courtesy Photo of Hammer.ucla.edu
Her Dream Deferred: On the Status of Black Women
Celebrating the girls and women who dedicate themselves to promoting progressive change, the African American Policy and Hammer Museum present the third annual “Her Dream Deferred” through March 28-30 at 7:30pm. A series which studies black girls and women facing social injustice in the U.S.
10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024
More Info Here >

Courtesy Photo of Hammer.ucla.edu
The Not So Silver Screen: Black Women in Media
This panel moderated by professor Kimberlé Crenshaw explores the inequalities experienced by black women in Hollywood. Sitting in on the discussion are Diahann Carroll, Tonya Pinkins, Tracy “Twinkie” Byrd; April Reign, and Kristen Warner. Catch this special event on March 30 at 7:30pm.
10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024
More Info Here >

Courtesy Photo of Hammer.ucla.edu
Say Her Name
This special program will pay recognition to the movement #SayHerName that honors the lives of black girls and women killed by police. Featuring stories from family members and victims of police brutality. Event will take place March 28 at 7:30pm.
10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024
More Info Here >

Photo Courtesy of www.lamarler.com
11th Annual Santa Monica Airport Art Walk
The 11th Annual Santa Monica Art Walk will showcase artist, L.A. Marler’s artwork on Saturday, March 18! Check out her Fine Art Studio and Gallery for exceptional art pieces! Attendees will be treated to a TypO Type- In workshop from 2pm-3pm and live music and food trucks form 12pm-5pm!
Located on the Eastside of 3000 Airport Ave near Walgrove
Details on Santa Monica Airport Art Walk >

Photo Courtesy of Outdoor Swing Dancing at Tongva Park in Santa Monica
Outdoor Swing Dancing
Learn how to swing dance at Tongva Park, Saturday March 18! Don’t know how to swing? No problem! Dance instructors will teach you the basics! Beginners are welcomed, so get out there and dance!
615 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Details on Tongva Park Swing Dancing >
All Events Below Are At Beyond Baroque:

Photo Courtesy of Inaugural La Punk Film Festival
Inaugural LA Punk Film Festival
Catch L7 new film “Los Punks” at Beyond Baroque and more films about punk in Los Angeles. You can also catch other local artists showcasing local venice art circa 70’s-80’s. This event is in conjunction with the Venice Art Walk and sponsored by BeachDancer Films. Get on out there and support local artists and check out LA Punk Film Festival on Thursday, March 16 at 6pm!
681 Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Details on Inaugural LA Punk Film Festival >

LA Woman—Last Performance!
Don’t miss LA Woman’s very last performance on Saturday, March 11 at 8pm. “A middle-aged actress at the end of her rope recounts her life and career, dramatically building to an explosive confrontation in this debut staged reading of the new work by playwright/novelist Richard Setlowe.” Sound interesting?
681 Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Details on LA Woman >

Photo Courtesy of Inside the Writer’s Studio
LAMBDA Lit Fest – Inside the Writer’s Studio
On Friday, March 10 Lambda Lit Fest brings special guests, authors and influencers Patricia Nell Warren and Felice Picano who speak and write about the LGBTQ community. The panel will discuss Warren and Picano’s writing processes, influences, and their places in LGBTQ literary history. Get involved and don’t miss this great opportunity!
681 Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Details on LAMBDA Lit Fest – Inside the Writer’s Studio >

Photo Courtesy of Beyond Baroque
International Women’s Day Celebration
This glorious event will be paying tribute to women who participate in music, film, and poetry. This celebration will feature eight Venice artists who will share their experiences and challenges women face in the art scene. Come together and share your story on Sunday, March 12 from 2pm-4pm and mingle with inspiring women!
681 Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Details on International Women’s Day Celebration >
Hammer Museum Events:

Courtesy Photo of Hammer.ucla.edu
Family Flicks Film Series: Betty Boop and Friends
UCLA and Hammer Museum have teamed up to bring people of all ages a special matinee show and screening of new and old classic toons! Grab your popcorn and drink and join them Sunday, March 12 at 11am! Early arrival is recommended so make sure to get there early to get yourself a ticket!
10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024
Details on Family Flicks Film Series >
by Editor | Feb 22, 2017 | Abbot Kinney 1st Fridays, AKFF Blog, Food Truck Events, Food Trucks, LA Events
Here are a couple of LA’s underrated spots you can hit up and explore this weekend! Plus, food truck events that scream fun!

Photo Courtesy by Pinterest
Murphy Ranch
These ruins can go unnoticed tucked away in the Pacific Palisades. This abandoned Nazi camp is now covered in graffiti artwork and is a resting/ exploration point through the Pacific Palisades trails. A slice of untold LA history hides away deep in our hills and is waiting for you to find it.
Sullivan Fire Rd, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Photo Courtesy by Thestudiomdr.com
Culver City Stairs
For all exercise junkies, the Culver City Stairs will defiantly make you work for that delicious slice of pizza (or two… ok maybe one more slice) you’ll be eating on First Fridays. The stairs stretches out to be approximately 500 steps. Once you get to the top of the stairs you have this beautiful view of West LA. You can also choose to take a 1 mile trail back down.
6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232

Photo Courtesy by KCET.org
Heritage Square Museum
Located in Highland Park, Heritage Square Museum can actually be seen off the 110 freeway. The square is home to numerous Victorian houses, a church, and more structures. Check out the museum every Friday- Sunday from 11:30am- 4:30pm!
More Info Here >
3800 Homer Street, Los Angeles, CA 90031

Photo Courtesy by Californiathroughmylens.com
Old LA Zoo
The old zoo stands abandon but is a sight to surely see and explore. One will find old cages and old animal exhibits you can go in and around of. After the exploration you can hit up the endless hiking trails Griffith Park has to offer!
4730 Crystal Springs Dr Los Angeles, CA 90027 (Note: This is not the exact address. Look for a merry-go-round and you will find the old zoo)

Photo Courtesy by Native Foods Cafe Blog
Self Realization Fellowship Shrine
Looking to go on the most relaxing adventure in LA? Here’s your chance! The Self Realization Fellowship Shrine is a peaceful retreat away from the big city’s noise and traffic. With lush gardens, a lake, and acres of quiet peacefulness there is no better place to get away!
17190 Sunset Blvd, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Food Truck Events:
#FTLSA Happy Hour
Food trucks and beer, what more can you ask for? Catch Surfas happy hour tomorrow Thursday, February 23! This is a FREE event but make sure to RSVP, for space is limited! Maybe before the event you can hit up the Culver City stairs? Make it an adventure!
8777 Washington Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232
RSVP Here >
5th Annual Hollywood Beer and Music Festival
Ok, maybe it does get better. Food trucks, beer, and music! The 5th Annual Hollywood Beer and Music festival is going off with a bang this Sunday, February 26! All past events have sold out, so make sure to grab your tickets soon for a good time before the new week begins!
1735 Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Get tickets Here >
Feature Photo Courtesy by Qantas.com