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Hot summer nights are about to get hotter. From sexy rooftop pool parties to epic outdoor music festivals to picnics by moonlight with live jazz or fireworks, Night+Day’s Best Summer Nights highlight primo nocturnal events for the beautiful, balmy evenings ahead.
Best Summer Nights in....
Best Summer Nights
Los Angeles
Hard LA
Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 N. Spring St., Elysian Park hardfest.com
The Scene: Offering a slice of Coachella at a fraction of the cost, think of Hard LA as a rave for adults, or at least those old enough to grow scruff and know what Jason Bentley’s day job is (the KCRW music director and host of Morning Become Eclectic). The Draw: Located in the heart of downtown LA, this annual music fest is all about progressive artists and the beat junkies who love them. This year’s line-up is stellar, with the return of M.I.A, the futuristic-hip-pop of N.E.R.D., and the coming-out party of Coachella sensation Flying Lotus. There are two stages, beer gardens and food vendors spread throughout the free-spirited urban landscape. Jul. 17 4pm–midnight. Hot Tip: Tickets start at $50 and rise to $70 as the concert date approaches so get yours ASAP. You can also double-up and attend both Hard LA and Hard Summer (featuring Crystal Castles, Soulwax, and others) on Aug. 7 for a $90–$100 total.
Playboy Jazz Festival
Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 310-450-1173 playboyjazzfestival.com
The Draw: Hef knows his jazz as well as he does a fine feminine figure, so you’re in good hands. The annual event often draws the biggest names in jazz, and the big-screen shots of Hef’s Playmate-laden box are worth the price of admission alone. The Scene: The 32nd annual event is one of its best, featuring a diverse line-up that crosses the musical spectrum. Legends such as George Benson, Manhattan Transfer, and Chick Corea will share the stage with recent Grammy-winners such as Kurt Elling and Los Van Van. Master of Ceremonies will be none other than the great Bill Cosby and tickets just start at $20. June 12–13, 2:30–10pm. Hot Tip: Many of the restaurants and cafes in the surrounding LA area provide picnic baskets specifically designed for the bowl, from four-star (Campanile, La Cachette) to feasible Gelson’s Market (323-464-7316).
The Scene: What started as a way to bridge the gap between Latin families and gays in the Sunset Junction neighborhood has evolved into a massive hipster haven now in its 30th year. The Draw: It’s the ultimate SoCal block party, uniting the diverse Eastside with divey beer gardens, street art and crafts, ironic carnival rides, and suspicious (yet tasty) barbeque. The indie music line-up on the five stages is as diverse as the melting-pot crowd, with past performers including Beck, X, and She Wants Revenge. Late August, Aug. 21–22 11am–10pm. Hot Tip: One-day tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Parking can be a mess so take Metro or walk if possible (if not, get there before 5pm). Also, bring cash.
