Peninsula May 2024 Calendar
Ongoing:
Through Tuesday, May 21
Pastel Society Art Exhibit
The Pastel Society of Southern California’s (PSSC) 15th Annual Gallery exhibition showcases paintings by nationally recognized pastel artists, as well as local PSSC members. A total of 90 artworks, including landscapes, seascapes, still life, florals, animals and portraits/figures will be on display, most of which are available for purchase. The show’s ocean view galleries are located on the upper level of the Riviera UMC complex, 375 Palos Verdes Blvd., Redondo Beach. Information: pastelsocal.org.
Through Sunday, August 31
The Butterflies return SCBG
Immerse yourself amid hundreds of tropical butterflies during the fourth year of SOAR! Step into the Host and Nectar Garden and wander through beautiful plant species that are part of a butterfly’s habitat. Stop by the Emergence Chamber where you may just see a butterfly emerge from its pupa. Have an up-close-and-personal experience with the hundreds of butterflies flying throughout the exhibit. South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula. Tickets and Information: southcoastbotanicgarden.org/soar.
Through Tuesday, May 7
Palos Verdes High Art student exhibition
The PVHS advanced students’ art show theme is “In the Shadows.” Each piece in the exhibit represents the artist’s unique visual interpretation on this specific topic. Peninsula Center Library, Foyer exhibit area, 701 Silver Spur Rd, Rolling Hills Estate. Library hours: Mon. – Thurs. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Fri. 2 – 6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sun. 1 – 5 p.m.
1 Wednesday
MAY
The Spies Next Door
Peninsula Seniors member Dr. Peter Barrett recalls thrilling stories of submarines and espionage as a boy growing up in Boca Raton FL during WWII. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Scriba Family Center, 602 Deep Valley Drive, #310, Rolling Hills Estates. Coffee social at 10:15 a.m. Open to the community. Questions? Call Rennee Reymond, program coordinator, (310) 377-3003.
2 Thursday
MAY
First Thursday San Pedro
Founded in 1997, the monthly First Thursday showcases galleries and the arts in downtown San Pedro. Between Pacific Ave., Harbor Blvd., 4th, and 9th St. Live music at the corner of 6th and Mesa. Food Truck Alley on Mesa Street between 7th & 5th St. 6 – 10 p.m. Information: sanpedrochamber.com/events/details/first-thursday-05-02-2024-8577.
3 Friday
MAY
Sting BeachLife Redondo Beach
Sting headlines BeachLife Festival 2024 on Fri. May 3 through Sun. May 5. Along with Sting will be Incubus, Devo, ZZ Top, and many local bands. Seaside Lagoon, 137 N. Harbor Dr., Redondo Beach. Tickets: beachlifefestival.com/ticket-types. Friday 1 – 10 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
4 Saturday
MAY
Saturdays rock at Collage
Love rock music enough to get out of bed and play it? Rock jam sessions on the third Saturday morning of each month. Conducted by Mark Warnholz, who will coach those who would like some practice and instruction for the first hour. After that, the more experienced are welcome to join in and show their chops.10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 731 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro. RSVP: collageartculture.org.
Library free comic book day
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s the Millennium Falcon! It’s Free Comic Book Day and May the 4th! Join us for crafts, games, a photo booth and more. Perfect for grades K-5 but all ages are welcome. One free comic per person while supplies last. For more info: Megan Durazo mdurazo@pvld.org. 2 – 4 p.m. Peninsula Center Library, community room, 701 Silver Spur Rd, Rolling Hills Estates.
Senior citizen arts and crafts faire
The 23rd Annual Senior Arts & Crafts Faire. Vendors with one-of-a-kind gifts for Mother’s Day, Graduation, and Father’s Day. Card making for kids, Snack bar, and music. 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Ken Miller Recreation Center, 3341 Torrance Blvd., Torrance. Information: collageartculture.orghttp://collageartculture.org, (310) 618-2930.
Family nature walk at George F. Canyon
Naturalists will guide you along a trail through the preserve to discover a unique variety of wildlife in their canyon habitat, with amazing views of the LA Basin. Meet on the back patio of the Nature Center and come inside to explore after the hike. 10:30 a.m. Parking in Preserve lot located at 27305 Palos Verdes Drive East, Rolling Hills Estates. Rain cancels. Sign up: pvplc.org/calendar.
Outdoor Volunteer Day at Alta Vicente
Help restore habitat on the 22-acre site to create a home for rare cactus wrens and gnatcatchers, with beautiful views of Catalina Island. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 30940 Hawthorne Blvd, Rancho Palos Verdes. Sign up: pvplc.volunteerhub.com.
5 Sunday
MAY
YOU ARE ENOUGH 5K Hermosa Beach
The second annual YOU ARE ENOUGH 5K is the flagship mental health campaign of the non-profit, Giving Purpose Organization, founded by Cathy Caplener. Proceeds will go towards launching YOU ARE ENOUGH billboards in the South Bay. Entry fee is $40. Children under 12 are free to participate. 7 – 8 a.m. registration, 8 – 8:30 a.m. stretch, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Start time and finish. 1 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach. Information and sign up: givingpurpose.org, or Eventbrite. Questions: (310) 938-3158.
8 Wednesday
MAY
Saving Michaelangelo’s Dome
Local author Wayne Kalayjian discusses his new first book about how three mathematicians and a Pope sparked an architectural revolution. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Scriba Family Center, 602 Deep Valley Drive, #310, Rolling Hills Estates. Coffee social at 10:15 a.m. Open to the community. Space is limited. Questions? Call Rennee Reymond, program coordinator, (310) 377-3003.
9 Thursday
MAY
Write on time
Writers unite! Join us for a monthly evening program for writing enthusiasts to have time for free writing, peer-feedback, sharing, or tackle writing prompts to keep creativity active. 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Peninsula Center Library, Purcell meeting room, Peninsula Center Library, community room, 701 Silver Spur Rd, Rolling Hills Estates. Drop-in. No registration required.
10 Friday
MAY
California guitar trio at Collage
The California Guitar Trio formed in 1991 as an outgrowth of the League of Crafty Guitarists, and has achieved worldwide fame for their virtuosity on pieces that range from classical to surf music, with stops in rock, blues, and jazz. Their electric/acoustic sound on guitars and Chapman stick is instantly recognizable and unforgettable. Two Shows 7 – 8:45 p.m. and 9:30 – 11:15 p.m. 731 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro. Tickets: collageartculture.org.
Nature & Me Storytime at George F. Canyon Nature Center
Join the Palos Verdes Library District for stories, songs, and rhymes at George F Canyon Nature Center, 27305 Palos Verdes Dr. E., Rolling Hills Estates. 10:15 – 10:45 a.m. Recommended for ages 2-5. No reservations required.
11 Saturday
MAY
Divorce workshop Torrance
The Second Saturday Divorce workshop is designed to equip you with the legal, financial, and emotional information you need to make the right decision for your marriage and your life. The speakers will include attorney Kevin Kensik along with financial advisors and real estate agents to answer questions. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Torrance Airport meeting room, 3301 Airport Dr., Torrance. Tickets: SecondSaturday.com/location/torrance. Questions: kenvinkensik@hotmail.com, (310) 891-2300.
Comedy Night RPV
Comedy night in Palos Verdes is the first annual event with a cash prize of $500 for the best comic of the night. 7 – 10 p.m. Hesse Community Park, 29301 Hawthorne Blvd., Rancho Palos Verdes. $25. Tickets: allevents in/Comedy Night in Palos Verdes.
Julieta Iglesias at Collage
Piano renditions of works by Astor Piazzolla, and her interpretations of the Argentine progressive rock band Serú Girán. A progressive rock band and the master of tango music in the same concert? Julieta will show the links between the two with her genius at the keyboard. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. 731 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro. Tickets: collageartculture.org.
Nature Club for Kids White Point
Rocks & Fossils themed Nature Club with the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. White Point Nature Education Center, 1600 W Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. We’ll learn about being a geologist and paleontologist while doing fun activities and crafts. This event is free and suitable for ages 5-10. Sign up: pvplc.org/calendar.
Guided Nature Walk at Linden H. Chandler
Experience this 28-acre nature preserve with blooming native plants. This restored habitat is home to the endangered Palos Verdes blue butterfly. 9 a.m. 95 Buckskin Ln., Rolling Hills Estates. Moderate. Sign up: pvplc.org/calendar.
Native Plant Sale
Create your own butterfly garden with a beautiful native plant from the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Our native plant expert will give you professional tips on creating a garden waystation and home for local species. 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. George F Canyon, 27305 Palos Verdes Dr. E., Rolling Hills Estates.
Outdoor Volunteer Day at Agua Amarga Reserve
Help remove invasive weeds and care for a community restoration site to benefit wildlife. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 6118 Palos Verdes Dr. S., Rancho Palos Verdes. Sign up: pvplc.volunteerhub.com.
Library Zumba
Mix music and dance with Zumba outdoors on the Miraleste Deck! Instructor Charrise Lum will lead participants through a 50 minute Zumba class including cardio and Latin-inspired dance. Wear sunscreen, dress comfortably, a hand towel, and a bottle of water. Wear comfortable sneakers. 10 – 11 a.m. Miraleste Library Deck, 29089 Palos Verdes Dr. E., Rancho Palos Verdes. Registration: pvld.org.
The Linda Ronstadt Experience at Alva
The Linda Ronstadt Experience brings to life the timeless hits of the incomparable Linda Ronstadt, taking you on a musical journey through her iconic repertoire. 8 p.m. Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro. $25. Tickets: alvasshowroom.com/events.
12 Sunday
MAY
Mother’s Day Outdoor Volunteer Day White Point Nature Preserve
Join us at White Point Nature Preserve for a special Mother’s Day event. Not only will we be cleaning seeds, planting native plant species and/or removing invasive, non-native plants to restore and improve critical habitat for wildlife at the preserve, and beautify outdoor natural space for the community – but we will also have a fun, family friendly craft/activity to celebrate moms and the mom-like figures in our lives. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 1600 W. Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro. Sign up: pvplc.volunteerhub.com.
13 Monday
MAY
Board games at the library
Join your neighbors for a friendly game of chess, checkers, scrabble and other board games. No reservation required, just drop in. 2 – 4 p.m. Peninsula Center Library, Purcell meeting room, 701 Silver Spur Rd., Rolling Hills Estates. Info: pvld.org, (310) 377-9584 x601.
15 Wednesday
MAY
Collage jazz jam at Collage
Open jazz jam, all welcome. 7 – 9 p.m. 731 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro. RSVP: collageartculture.org.
Pat Pattison’s Best of California
The famous host of this nationally syndicated television lifestyle show discusses his travels around California telling stories of the people, places, history and mysteries of the Golden State. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Scriba Family Center, 602 Deep Valley Drive, #310, Rolling Hills Estates. Coffee social at 10:15 a.m. Open to the community. Space is limited. Questions? Call Rennee Reymond, program coordinator, (310) 377-3003.
17 Friday
MAY
Mr. Crowley’s Ozzy experience at Alva’s
Mr. Crowley’s Ozzy Experience is celebrating an impressive 25 years of bringing the music of Ozzy Osbourne to life. 8 p.m. Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro. $30. Tickets: alvasshowroom.com/events.
18 Saturday
MAY
Guided Family Nature Walk at White Point Nature Preserve
Naturalists will guide you along a trail to discover a unique variety of wildlife in their coastal sage scrub habitat with amazing views across to the ocean. Meet in front of the Nature Center and come inside to explore after the hike. 10:30 a.m. Preserve parking available at the end of the street in a gravel lot. 1600 West Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro. Sign up: pvplc.org/calendar.
The Tribe presents: WhoRU2 @ Alva’s
A fantastic rock & roll show featuring songs by two of the most iconic rock bands in history — The Who and U2. 8 p.m. Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro. $27. Tickets: alvasshowroom.com/events.
Saturdays rock at Collage
Love rock music enough to get out of bed and play it? Rock jam sessions on the third Saturday morning of each month. Conducted by Mark Warnholz, who will coach those who would like some practice and instruction for the first hour. After that, the more experienced are welcome to join in and show their chops.10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 731 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro. RSVP: collageartculture.org.
Outdoor Volunteer Day at Abalone Cove Reserve
Join the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy to volunteer on a breathtaking coastal reserve helping restore wildlife habitat. Students can receive community service hours. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 5970 Palos Verdes Dr. S., Rancho Palos Verdes. Sign up: pvplc.volunteerhub.com.
19 Sunday
MAY
Kelly Griffin “Namibia” at SC Botanic Garden
Kelly Griffin has become well known for his hybridizing and is responsible for over 100 succulent hybrids now in the trade, including Aloes, Agaves and Echeverias. He’s traveled to 20-plus countries searching for plants and will be focusing this talk on Namibia. 1 p.m. South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula. Free admission for SCCSS members and their guests. Information: southcoastcss.org.
Ukulele Jam w/Taeri & Katie
Join Taeri and Katie of Popoki House from 2 – 4 p.m. for a Ukulele Jam. Bring a copy of The Daily Ukulele book and/or a tablet if you have them, a music stand, and your uke. All skill levels are welcome. 2 – 3:15 p.m. 731 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro. RSVP: events.collageartculture.com/Ukulele2404.
Tour de Pier MB
The 12th Annual Tour de Pier is a unique fundraising event that brings one of the hottest indoor fitness activities — stationary cycling — to the outdoors of Manhattan Beach.The event includes a free Health & Fitness Expo, ongoing music and entertainment, sampling of healthy food and beverages, as well as interactive health & fitness booths. Little ones can enjoy our Cardio Kids Zone with tot-sized stationary bikes, games, moon bounces and more. The South Bay’s best instructors and celebrity guests will spin you through a session with energizing music and loads of excitement and energy. Check in begins at 7:30 a.m. Manhattan Beach Pier & The Strand. Information: tourdepier.com. Questions: (310) 473-5121.
Outdoor Volunteer Day at White Point Nature Preserve
Join us at White Point Nature Preserve, working to maintain the preserve’s restoration area of native plant species to improve critical habitat for wildlife at the preserve, and beautify outdoor natural space for the community. Preserve parking available at the end of the street in a gravel lot. 1600 West Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Sign up: pvplc.volunteerhub.com.
Docent Guided Nature Walk at McBride Trail
Enjoy this easy walk along the McBride Trail, featuring spectacular panoramic views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and Catalina Island. Learn about the native coastal sage scrub habitat along with a lesson on the 19th and 20th centuries history of the Palos Verdes area. NOTE: For those seeking a challenge, we will also be offering a strenuous docent-led hike on the Three Sisters Trail starting at the same location. 1 p.m. Meet us at the end of Ocean Terrace Drive. Drive south on Highridge Road, cross Crest Road, turn right on Ocean Terrace Drive and park on the canyon side at the end of the street. The theme of this nature walk is “History of Palos Verdes Peninsula”. Information: losserenosrpv.org, (310) 544-5260.
21 Tuesday
MAY
Learn to play Bridge Lomita
Playing bridge is mental gymnastics. Regularly playing bridge stimulates your brain and gives you a chance to meet interesting people. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. South Bay Bridge Club, 24100 Narbonne Ave., Lomita. Text or call (323) 374-3533 to register to reserve your seat.
22 Wednesday
MAY
Northrop Grumman Aircraft Development
Local author Michael Ciminera, president of the Western Museum of Flight and retired Northrop Grumman vice president, discusses his new book, The Aircraft Designers: A Northrop Grumman Historical Perspective. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Scriba Family Center, 602 Deep Valley Drive, #310, Rolling Hills Estates. Coffee social at 10:15 a.m. Open to the community. Space is limited. Questions? Call Rennee Reymond, program coordinator, (310) 377-3003.
23 Thursday
MAY
Derek Frank at Alva’s
Seventies-inspired funky instrumental jams from former Gwen Stefani/Shania Twain bass player and his 5-piece supergroup. 8 p.m. Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro. $25. Tickets: alvasshowroom.com/events.
Palos Verdes Peninsula Village
The Palos Verdes Peninsula Village is an organization of older adults who have joined together to help one another navigate the challenges and opportunities of aging. Meet PVP Village members and volunteers and learn about the PVP Village, its enriching social and intellectual activities and volunteer support. 11 a.m. PVP Village Office, 375 Via Almar, D. 101, Palos Verdes Estates. RSVP: peninsulavillagepvp@gmail.com, (310) 991-3324.
24 Friday
MAY
Lari Basilio at Alva’s
a Brazilian guitarist, songwriter and producer, considered by Guitar World Magazine “one of the most exciting names in instrumental rock.” 8 p.m. Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro. $50. Tickets: .
25 Saturday
MAY
Native Plant Sale
Create your own butterfly garden with a beautiful native plant from the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Our native plant expert will give you professional tips on creating a garden waystation and home for local species. 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. White Point Nature Education Center, 1600 Paseo del Mar, San Pedro.
Jazz night at Alvas
David Garfield with Chad Wackerman, John Peña and special guest Grant Geissman. This will be a very special night of world class funk/jazz/latin/fusion with these musical legends. Chad Wackerman started with Frank Zappa, then a long term collaborator with Allan Holdsworth, a member of Men At Work and currently touring with James Taylor. 8 p.m. Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro. $40. Tickets: alvasshowroom.com/events.
26 Sunday
MAY
Exiles in Paradise at Collage
Jews who fled fascism in Europe in the 1930s flocked to California. Many became involved in the film and music industry, enriching American and world culture in the process. This program features soprano, filmmaker, and scholar Christina Linhardt and renowned pianist Brian Pezzone, who will tell the stories behind the composers and their work as well as perform them. 731 S. Pacific Ave., San Pedro. RSVP: collageartculture.org. Tickets: events.collageartculture.com/exp24. Livestream tickets: events.collageartculture.com/ExiledParadise2405.
Taylor Made Tapestry at Silva’s
In the history of popular music, there have been few singer/songwriters that have been as prolific and impactful as the legendary Carole King & James Taylor. 4 p.m. Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro. $25. Tickets: alvasshowroom.com/events.
29 Wednesday
MAY
Joscho Stephan Trio at Alva’s
Joscho Stephan shapes modern gypsy swing with his playing like no other: With his authentic tone, his harmonic finesse and his sense of rhythm, but above all with his breathtaking solo technique, Stephan has earned himself an outstanding reputation on the international guitar scene. 8 p.m. Alvas Showroom, 1417 W. 8th St., San Pedro. $25. Tickets: alvasshowroom.com/events.
Meet the Los Angeles County Assessor
County Assessor Jeff Prang discusses rising property values and property taxes in LA County. Where is this heading? 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Scriba Family Center, 602 Deep Valley Drive, #310, Rolling Hills Estates. Coffee social at 10:15 a.m. Open to the community. Space is limited. Questions? Call Rennee Reymond, program coordinator, (310) 377-3003.
Ongoing:
From Monday, June 10 to Saturday, August 17, children, teens, and adults can take part in the Palos Verdes Library District’s series of summer programs and activities, such as storytime, crafts, games, movies, book discussion groups, and gaming workshops. Free. Participants can join at any Palos Verdes Library District location or through the Readerzone app to participate in the Summer Challenge. Challenge participants can earn souvenirs by tracking the time spent reading or completing activities such as writing, exploring the outdoors, exercising, learning a new skill, and attending library programs, to name a few. For more information and how to participate, visit pvld.org. Pen