Two decades in the making, LACMA’s campus transformation is complete and the David Geffen Galleries have opened to widespread acclaim. That means it’s time to celebrate! All of Los Angeles is invited to the museum’s Grand Opening Weekend from Thursday, June 18–Monday, June 22, when we’ll mark LACMA’s next chapter with our community.
Anchoring that weekend is the free LACMA Block Party on Saturday, June 20. This all-day party will be the biggest celebration we’ve ever hosted, featuring free admission to the entire museum, family-friendly art activities inspired by LACMA’s collection, live music and DJ sets throughout the day bringing funk and old-school house, cumbia, and beachfront surf vibes, and a hand-selected restaurant showcase spotlighting L.A.’s diverse food culture. The day also includes a special edition of our popular Latin Sounds concert series with one of the premier soneros in L.A., plus a few surprises to make this all-ages party unforgettable.
Saturday’s Block Party will be capped off by The Art Parade, a spectacular public procession on Wilshire Boulevard showcasing mobile sculptures, costumes, banners, inflatables, music, and movement-based works that activate public space through collective artistic expression. This Los Angeles edition of Jeffrey Deitch’s iconic New York event marks a pivotal moment in the history of LACMA and the city itself, underlining the museum’s longstanding commitment to celebrating artists and presenting art in public spaces.
On Sunday, June 21, the fun continues at the SPIRITS Summer Solstice Dance Party, featuring a DJ set by renowned electronic artist Richie Hawtin (aka Plastikman) to mark the next cycle of john gerrard’s artwork SPIRITS. The evening will include a large-scale installation and live performance of gerrard's work.
The Grand Opening Weekend also coincides with the June edition of Third Weekends at LACMA, our monthly weekend-long session of free and ticketed events inspired by the museum’s collection and special exhibitions. Don’t miss World Cup watch parties, a talk with photographer Annie Liebovitz, music programs like our beloved Jazz at LACMA series, gallery tours, and much more all weekend long.
Come wander with us and make your first memories in L.A.’s newest icon. Find more info about the entire Grand Opening Weekend and reserve your free tickets to the LACMA Block Party.