When: May 1–18
Where: The McCadden Theatre
What: Two times a year, LA gets silly during this 17-day festival. Visit www.lacomedyfest.com or call 323.463.2942 for more information.
Scoop: LA’s annual comedy festival celebrates clowns, standup comedians and sketch artists.
When: May 2, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Where: El Pueblo Historical Monument
What: Los Angeles celebrates Mexico’s victory over the French with live entertainment, cultural attractions and authentic food.
Scoop: For visitors, one of the biggest events in LA is the perfect opportunity to explore historic Olvera Street and the Old Plaza, two LA cultural attractions that help celebrate LA’s strong Mexican tradition. Situated in the oldest part of the city, Olvera Street hosts this free 3-day festival every year in honor of Cinco de Mayo, culminating on the holiday itself.
When: April 26–27, Sat., 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: UCLA Main Campus
What: This two-day event is free to the public and includes panel and speaker sessions and activities for both children and adults. Several outdoor stages host readings and performances for approximately 130,000 visitors each year. Parking $8. Call 213.237.6552 for more information.
Scoop: This is the largest and most prestigious book festival in the country. With more than 450 authors attending, chances are good that one of your favorite writers will be there. In addition to readings and panels, authors will be signing books.
The 2009 World Baseball Classic Semi-Final and Final games will be held at Dodger Stadium from March 21-23, 2009.