This weekend the South African government is hosting an arts festival downtown at California Plaza. Saturday is a series of free concerts. Sunday is a series of free film screenings. A celebration of South African art and culture, this weekend festival is truly a gift to the city of Los Angeles.

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Noteworthy musicians and filmmakers have made their way from South Africa to bring their artistic expressions to us, and I for one am thrilled! Held in the outdoor venue nestled on Grand Street between 3rd and 4th streets, the setting is perfect for a weekend jaunt.

I attended a preview performance by the Mahotella Queens last evening and they were incredible- such uplifting and joyous music. I've been told they will be performing tonight from 5:00 to 6:00 pm specifically. The Mahotella Queens are just some of the legandary artists showcasing their talents this weekend.

Below is the remainder of the musical line-up for today and tonight, as well as the film screening calendar for tomorrow.

CONCERT LINEUP:

3:30pm -7:00pm

Wouter Kellerman- versatile flautist fusing classical and contemporary

The Soil-new force in beatbox and a capella sounds

iFani Xhosa- rapper, cultural futurist

The Mahotella Queens feat Jozi- Uplifting multigenerational mix of acapella infused with Jozi’s Zulu hip hop

7:00pm-10:00pm

Simphiwe Dana- sultry voice of Afro soul

The Parlotones- Joberg’s platinum-selling rockers

Hugh Masekela- jazz trumpet icon

FILM SCREENINGS:

Note: All film screening are free but RSVPs are required- click here. The films are being shown at two theaters at the Regal Cinema at LA Live. Check out all the trailers for the films here.

10:00 am "Otelo Burning" drama (102 mins)

10:20 am "Man on Ground" drama (120 mins)

12:00 pm "Felix" family film (108 mins)

12:05 pm "Material" · comedy (93 mins)

2:00 pm "The African Cypher" documentary about Soweto’s street dance subculture (88 mins)

2:10 pm "Fanie Fourie’s Lobola" comedy (90 mins)

OUTDOOR FILM SCREENING:

7:00 pm "Khumba" animation, U.S. premiere

Grand Performances @ California Plaza (Outdoor Screening)

No reservations required. Plaza opens for picnicking at 5pm.

Don't miss out on this fabulous occasion to experience South African music and film.

Reach Associate Arts Editor Ashley Riegle by email. Follow her on Twitter here.