What to Know

  • CatCon turns 10
  • Pasadena Convention Center
  • Aug. 2 and 3, 2025
  • $47.93 single-day admission; other ticketing tiers are available

CatCon: This major — or perhaps we mean “meow”-jer — convention is catnip to feline fans across the region, thanks to cat adoptions, cat experts, and the well-known animals in attendance. It’s the 10th anniversary of the expo, which will again welcome The Heroes of the Australian Firefighters Calendar. There’s a spotlight moment for the new Natural History Museum cat exhibit, too. Pad by the Pasadena Convention Center Aug. 2 and 3.

Hatch chile season sizzles: What’s that big metal contraption in your grocery store parking lot, the one that is crackling with fragrant green fruit? It’s a roaster, oh yes, which means that Hatch chile season is in full and spicy swing across Southern California. Find out when the roasters will be in your area, and, of course, consider if this is the year you’re going mild or XXHOT.

Long Beach Burger Week: This is how we start August, with a perfectly spiced patty, a bun to remember (we’re thinking brioche or maybe Texas Toast), and condiments with kick. A bevy of LBC eateries will be celebrating this star munch over the course a week with all sorts of deals and special burgers on the menu. Just peruse the line-up and find out what’s on. Oh yes: One or two spots will do dog burgers, too. Aug. 3 is the start date, yum.

RiverFest: Paddle by LA State Historic Park, or at least catch Metro, walk, or drive, for a day devoted to the Los Angeles River. True, the iconic waterway doesn’t pass by the park, but it isn’t far, and fans will gather to enjoy live music, peruse a marketplace, and show their support for the splashy superstar. Entry is free and the Aug. 3 party, which is presented by Friends of the LA River, begins at 2 o’clock.

Avo Fest: Avocados and ales have plenty in common, including lots of flavor and a creamier texture. But finding a brew celebration devoted to the alligator fruit? That’s a rarer thing, unless you land at Angel City Brewery near the start of August. This long-running fruit ‘n foams festivity has an Avocado Ale on the pour and a Guavacado Ale, too. Roll by the Arts District Aug. 3.