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Weekender - Top 5 Things To Do In L.A. On Labor Day Weekend

Rebecca Kirkman |
September 2, 2010 | 7:40 p.m. PDT

Staff Reporter

Try the Greek dessert spanakopita at the Long Beach Greek Festival (Creative Commons).
Try the Greek dessert spanakopita at the Long Beach Greek Festival (Creative Commons).
Okay, before the normal rundown, I just wanted to take a minute to figure out why we even get this day off. After a quick Google search, I learned the first Labor Day was in 1882 after several workers died during a strike, and congress rushed to pass the holiday to show that the labor reform movement was a top priority. The first labor day was celebrated with a parade and festival for workers and their families.

Alright, history lesson over. Here are some ways you can celebrate this weekend:

1. FYF Fest
This day of music in downtown L.A. combines all the things you love about festivals: the vintage clothing sales, vegan food stands and indie bands, all in Los Angeles State Historic Park. Make sure to see Dead Man's Bones (actor Ryan Gosling's music project), Local Natives, Panda Bear (Animal Collective's Noah Lennox) and The Rapture. Get tickets online here.
$30
Saturday, Aug. 4, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.

2. Long Beach Greek Festival
Opa! Transport yourself to the Mediterranean but only drive as far as Long Beach this weekend at the annual Greek Festival. Drink Greek beer and wine, eat Greek food and desserts, dance and listen to Greek music and pass time at the full carnival. There is a $3 donation asked upon entrance, but Monday noon to 5 p.m. is free.
$3
Saturday, Aug. 4 - Monday, Aug. 6, noon - 9 p.m.

3. Dodgers vs. Giants @ Dodger Stadium
Enjoy a night at the ball game this Friday and see SoCal battle NorCal as the Dodgers take on the Giants. After the game, there will be a special Labor Day fireworks display.
$17
Friday, Aug. 3, 7:10 p.m.

4. "500 Days of Summer" Screening
Look for classic L.A. architecture in the movie "500 Days of Summer" projected at an outdoor screening at architect Frank Lloyd Wright's Hollyhock House. Bring a picnic to enjoy, or buy food at one of the food trucks provided. Get tickets online here.
$10
Saturday, Sept. 4, 7:30 p.m.

5. Hole in the Wall Burger Joint
This hidden hamburger joint in West L.A. boasts gourmet burgers you design yourself. For around $11, you get a plate-sized hamburger with homemade ketchup, bun and sauces and locally grown produce.
Around $10 - $12 for a burger
Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

To reach staff reporter Rebecca Kirkman, click here.



 

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