Besides the fantastic Pier del Sol on the Santa Monica Pier, there are several other exciting food festivals going on around the city that reflect our rich cultural heritage.
Starting Friday at 5pm and continuing Saturday and Sunday, The Greek Fest at St. Sophia’s Cathedral is a celebration of Greek dance, arts, music, and primarily food. Don’t miss the loukoumathes, a donut coated in honey, or the saganaki, a Greek cheese served on fire with a slice of lemon. Yes, on fire. This year there will also be a competition of international restaurants to create the best fusion Greek dishes. Admission is free Friday, $5 on Sat and Sun. Children under 12 free.
On Sunday, October 9th, Feria De los Moles will be happening at Placita Olvera de Los Angeles from 10am until 6pm. Inspired by his grandmother’s cooking, Pedro Ramos founded the event in 2008. Since then it has grown to accommodate more than 40,000 visitors. This year the theme will be Pueblo (Ramos’ home town) vs. Oaxaca. The family-friendly event is free and features mariachis, folklore and the crowning of Ms. Mole.
Sunday the 9th is the opening night of the Oktoberfest at Alpine Village, voted one of the top 10 Oktoberfests in the country. Roll out the barrel to their Oom Pah Pah bands, drink too much German beer (brewed by Warsteiner), and feast on, well, your primary food group is going to be sausages. But you can choose Bratwurst, Polish, Spicy Chicken or Veggie Brat. The after-hours party has a $5 midnight buffet. Fridays and Saturdays are 21+ ($15 admission) and Sundays are all ages ($8 admission). There are special designated driver tickets, but being sober around so many sloppy drunks would be a nightmare. Take Uber or Lyft. (The Alpine Village website is selling tickets starting Friday the 7th, although the starting date is advertised as the 9th). Offbeat LA: Alpine Village.
