As long as there are stars in the California night sky, the Griffith Observatory throws a star party every night. The venue offers these free get-togethers with a little help from the Los Angeles Astronomical Society. Also with the facility is the Samuel Oschin Planetarium; this planetarium gets in on the fun by offering $7 tickets to three exciting shows that spotlight the wonders of the universe, of the sea, and of the ocean. The observatory is also the home of the new Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon presentation theater, so there is much to do here between the time you are peering heavenward.
A spicy taste of New Orleans comes to the West Coast by way of the Long Beach Crawfish Festival. There's plenty of great live music, vendors and activities and of course, plenty of delicious food! This is one of Long Beach's biggest events, as it regularly draws approximately 15,000 people when it is held every July in the city's Rainbow Lagoon Park.
Get an unexpectedly close look at the whales off the coast when you enjoy the Harbor Breeze Whale Watching Cruises . It is offered in association with the Aquarium of the Pacific; the friendly and knowledgeable staff offer informative narrations on your journey. They also are available to answer any questions you may have. Some individuals on this tour have claimed to see up to eleven whales on one trip, so make sure you have your camera on hand!