Get Ready for Topanga Days

Guitar player scans the ballfield as Topanga Days gets underway. Photo by Kelly Rockwell

What better way to spend Memorial Day weekend, May 27, 28, 29, than at Topanga Days Country Fair!

Now in its 44th year, this three-day, family-friendly festival and fundraiser continues to draw a diverse group of people together with its eclectic mix of musical acts as well as activities that are fun for all ages. It’s a time to experience the work of local artists while feasting on delicious food from local vendors—BBQ, Pizza, Mexican, Thai and Vegan—washed down with beer, wine and the popular sangria bar. 

This year’s musical lineup features the enduring ‘70s psychedelic rock band, Jefferson Starship, on Saturday, May 27, at 5:30 p.m. and L.A.’s legendary Ozomatli on Sunday, May 28, at 5:30 p.m. The band, formed in 1995, is named for the Aztec god of dance, fire and music. Their politically charged lyrics advocating social justice are delivered with their signature fusion of salsa, jazz, funk, reggae, rap and more. 

The festival will also have more than 25 musical acts including: The Brothers Gage, Deb Ryder, Few Miles South, Greenhorn Brothers, Hard Shine Blues Band, Kummerspeck, No Small Children, Raised on T.V., Solution, The Blue Dolphins, Venice and Whiskey Sunday.

Who doesn’t love parades, especially the outrageous and whacky Memorial Day parade with its stream of floats, cars, horses, dogs, kids, fire trucks and always some surprises. This year’s Grand Marshal is actress Wendy Malick, best known for her starring roles in Hot Cleveland and Just Shoot Me. Malick will lead the parade of dancing, prancing and singing in tribute to those in the armed forces who gave their lives for their country. The parade ends at the entrance of Topanga Community Center where the festival continues with a flag raising ceremony on the Main Stage and the ball field, honoring members of the military. Local teen powerhouse Gabbi Beauvais will sing the National Anthem. 

Single Day Pass: $15 for TCC members, $25 for non-members; Seniors (65+), $15; Kids (6-12), $15, except Saturday when its $5 for TCC member kids. Military with ID are $15 and free for Monday, Memorial Day. Kids 5 and under are free. 

Three-Day Pass: $40 for Adult TCC members, $60 for non-members. $30 for TCC member kids (6-12), $40 non-member kids.

Volunteers—Get free all-day admission when you volunteer for one four-hour shift. Contact Heather Bryant, (818) 795-5012; HBTVproduction@yahoo.com

The event is located on the grounds of the Topanga Community Center at 1440 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga CA 90290. For more information: (310) 455-1980; topangadays.com. Parking is available on the street with free shuttle service. Limited handicap is available on the grounds of the Community Center.

 

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