'Tarfest' puts spotlight on arts and music in the Miracle Mile
“Tarfest” includes fun activities for visitors of all ages. (photo courtesy of LAUNCH LA)
LAUNCH LA presents the 22nd annual “Tarfest-A Day in the Park” music and arts festival on Saturday, June 14, from 2-8 p.m. in Pan Pacific Park, 7600 Beverly Blvd.
The free one-day free festival celebrates L.A.’s cultural diversity with musical programming curated by Azul Amaral, one of L.A.’s top creative producers, cultural programmers and DJs. Azul was formerly program manager of Gloria Molina Grand Park and creative director of Grand Performances.
Additional performers include Jéli Daniel, aka CHROMEQUEEN, a DJ and founder of the all-female vinyl collective Red Light Vinyl. Emcee and DJ Kavione Griffith, aka KG SuperStar, brings the rhythmic, vibrant pulse of the Caribbean. Award winning DJ and former KCRW 89.9 personality Garth Trinidad promises an eclectic, modern musical landscape. Musician and producer Alberto López, and Cuban born violinist Dayren Santamaria, will also perform on the “Tarfest” stage.
Catering to all ages, “Tarfest” offers free art-making and cultural activities presented by UCLA Health and local partners such as the Korean Cultural Center, Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, Tar Pits Museum, Petersen Automotive Museum and Gloria Molina Grand Park. Artisan Booths, curated by Runway Boutique, will feature handcrafted jewelry, specialty goods and unique wares for purchase. Many of the best gourmet food trucks will be present. Intergenerational hip-hop and breakdancing collective JUiCE (Justice by Uniting in Creative Energy) will conduct dance workshops. WAYMO will provide insight into state-of-the-art ride-hailing vehicles and Metro will offer information on public transportation.
“TARFEST has been part of the L.A. community for over 20 years, remaining an annual free event through massive changes that have transformed the city and our neighborhood,” LAUNCH LA and “Tarfest” founder James Panozzo said. “This festival is about holding a mirror to our large, diverse community and by honoring what’s best about our city in the creative core of Los Angeles.”
Free parking is available at Pan Pacific Park, with overflow parking available at The Grove (enter on Grove Drive next to the park). For information, visit tarfest.com.