L.A. Weekend Guide: Adam Ant, Spooky Swap Meet, Poetry Film Fest, Pizza City Fest

Every Thursday, Los Angeles magazine curates a list of the best music, food and culture events, happening during the day and night, around Los Angeles. Craft a great last-minute schedule Fri.-Sun. with this Weekend Guide to L.A. (Click the event names for more info.) 

I Don't Know How But They Found Me at the Regent - April 26

With a mouthful of a name (inspired by a line in Back to the Future) the duo fronted by Dallon Weekes, formerly from Panic at the Disco, makes a rare L.A. tour stop. IDKhow (as they're called) have built a loyal following for jazzy alt-pop rock, enlivened by clever lyrics and Weekes' charismatic performances. 

International Poetry Film Festival at Beyond Baroque - April 26-27

April is National Poetry Month and with Taylor Swift bringing poetic prose to pop music, there are many reasons to celebrate. Beyond Baroque's third annual International Poetry Film Festival, features a special screening of Life is a Saxophone, a documentary about poet Kamau Daáood screening on Friday with a panel discussion to follow. Saturday, 40 poetry-based films from around the world will be shown. 

Spooky Swap Meet at Heritage Square Museum - April 26-28

It’s “Halfway to Halloween” time and this annual event will get you in the macabre mood with shopping for haunted merch, ghost hunting, and trick or treating at the beautiful Victorian Manor filled Heritage Square. Over 60 vendors, food, tarot readings, and more round out the wicked amusements. 

Adam Ant and The English Beat at the Greek - April 27

Those not planning to see him at Cruel World next month, can get a full dose of "Ant Music" at this Greek gig, alongside another great 80's act, The English Beat. Ant was in a self-imposed exile for many years, but when he has emerged, his live shows have been rapturous and rocking affairs, with loads of hits including "Strip," "Desperate But Not Serious" and "Goody Two-Shoes," to name a few. 

DrumatiX at the Brand Library & Art Center- April 27 

Glendale's Brand Associates Dance Series' curated by choreographer Jamie Nichols, spotlights top dance companies. Saturday, creative percussion company DrumatiX blends tap dance, body percussion, percussion and immersive rhythms.

Earth Focus at the Southern California Institute of Architecture- April 28

Celebrating Earth Month, PBS’ locally-produced environmental series explores “the relationships between California's wildlands and urban infrastructure and how community leaders are reimagining the Los Angeles River’s role in its surrounding neighborhoods.” Learn all about the LA River with interactive ecology activities, a VR exhibit, screenings and discussion. Dublab provides the soundtrack to the event. 

Pizza City Fest - April 27-28

However you slice it, this gathering of Southern California’s top pizza makers at L.A. Live will be a tasty good time. Cheesy pie lovers can attend panel discussions with culinary experts and try dozens of styles and toppings. 

Also check out these three (FREE) L.A. area festivals: 

Jackalope Arts at Central Park in Pasadena - April 27-28

The popular outdoor marketplace features indie crafts and wares from over 200 vendors. Find unique clothing, jewelry, home decor, art, photography, food, and more. Leashed pets are welcome. 

Cherry Blossom Festival at Barnes Memorial Park - April 27-28

The Monterey Park celebration focuses on Japanese and Japanese-American “arts, influences and issues.” The festival will also offer crafts, authentic foods, taiko drum and Japanese dance shows, martial arts and community booths.

The Eclectic in South Pasadena - April 27-28

This event lives up to its name with live music on multiple stages and an art crawl. In its 14th year, the free fest will also have food trucks, beer and wine gardens, and open houses from Mission Street to Fair Oaks, plus an "Artisans' Alley" selling handmade goods.