Welcome to another edition of the Happenings in the Heights newsletter, your guide to weekend events in and around Boyle Heights and L.A.’s Eastside.
We’ve entered October, and fall vibes are (hopefully) in the air. Whether you’re sipping on pumpkin spice lattes from Eastside cafes or planning for Halloween or Dia de Los Muertos celebrations, there’s plenty to do this weekend.
Start with a book talk and some community art at Espacio 1839, or take your teen to a girls’ empowerment workshop featuring a well-being village.
If you’re a K–12 educator interested in weaving music into your curriculum, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes has a free interactive event exploring community history through the sounds of Eastside music. The day includes a Boyle Heights and Me: Music and Identity workshop led by a Roosevelt High School teacher and a closing performance by Los Cambalache — there are still a few spots left, so sign up soon.
Self Help Graphics and Art also kicks off its annual Día de los Muertos Community Art Workshop series this weekend. Learn how to make papel picado, paper flowers, and calaca magnets, and honor loved ones through creative traditions.
Here’s what else is happening in and around the Eastside this weekend:
Friday, October 3
- Community Resource Day at El Centro de Ayuda: Need help with clothing, shoes, baby supplies and hygiene kits? Join this free community resource fair from 10 a.m- 3 p.m. 2130 E. 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90033. Call (323) 526-9301 for more information.
Saturday, October 4
- Sounds of the Eastside at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes: Are you a K–12 educator? Join this free interactive event exploring community history through music. Activities include a rockstar photobooth, vinyl record spinning, concert poster-making and a community playlist. Includes breakfast, lunch and a closing performance by Los Cambalache. 9:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. 501 N. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. Register online.
- Book talk at Espacio 1839: Join co-editors Rocío Moreno and Inés Durán for a discussion on “Saberes for Otros Mundos,” an edited collection exploring knowledge-making for other worlds. The talk includes reflections, key takeaways and space for dialogue. Featuring collage art by @kimethyst. 1 p.m. 1839 E. 1st St., Los Angeles, CA 90033.
- Girls Empowerment Conference at East L.A. College: L.A. County Parks hosts this free, daylong event for girls ages 12–18, featuring interactive workshops, mentorship, a well-being village and a Girls Power lunch party. Open to youth from across L.A. County. 8:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. 1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez, Monterey Park, CA 91754. Free transportation available from select sites. Register online.
- Día de los Muertos art workshop with Self Help Graphics: A month of art workshops for the annual celebration kicks off. Join SHG teaching artists from 12–3 p.m. to create papel picado, paper flowers, and calaca and marigold magnets. Connect with cultural practices while making art to honor ancestors and loved ones. All materials provided. Free and open to all ages. In The Making, 4024 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA.
Sunday, October 5
- Barrio Walk with Centro CSO: Want an opportunity to connect with your community and share vital information? Join this Boyle Heights-based social justice group for a community walk focused on immigrant rights and outreach. 10 a.m. Meet at CVS, 3627 E. Cesar E. Chavez Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90063.
- Homebuyer education program at Assist NA: Learn the steps, resources and support available to become a homeowner at this free event. Seats on a first-come, first-served basis. 12:30 -5 p.m. Eagle Rock City Hall, 2nd Floor. 2035 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041. Visit assistna.org to register.