Free 2nd Sunday at USC Pacific Asia Museum

On the second Sunday of every month, the USC Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena opens its doors for free, and November's edition turns to the artistic and cultural traditions of the Himalayan region. It is an easy pick for anyone sorting through things happening in Los Angeles this month, and one that works for all ages.

When: Sunday, November 8, 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Where: USC Pacific Asia Museum, 46 North Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101 Price: Free admission, with free parking all day

What to expect

The centerpiece is a traditional sand mandala, built by monks from Namgyal Monastery Dharma Center. Visitors can watch the creation of the piece and learn about its artistic and spiritual meaning through special opening and closing ceremonies. The closing ceremony runs from noon to 1:00 PM.

Around that, the day is packed with hands-on programming. Here is the schedule as listed:

• 11:30 AM: Storytime
• 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM: Sand mandala closing ceremony
• 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM: Butter sculpture art activity
• 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM: Sand mandala art activity
• 3:00 PM: Dance performance and workshop

The listing also mentions art-making workshops, a tea tasting and live cultural demonstrations, so there is plenty to wander through between the scheduled items. Because the museum collects and shows art from across Asia and the Pacific Islands, the galleries are worth a slow loop once the crowd at the mandala thins out.

Planning your visit

RSVPs are strongly encouraged. Seating for the sand mandala ceremony is not guaranteed, and workshop space is limited. Every program runs first come, first served, so arriving early gives you the best shot at a spot for the activities you care most about. The organizers also note that activity dates and times are subject to change, so check the museum's own site before you head out.

Free admission makes this a good low-cost outing for families, students and anyone curious about Himalayan art. If you are building a plan around LA events this weekend, the Sunday hours leave room to pair the museum with lunch in Pasadena's Old Pasadena district a few blocks away.

Getting there

The museum sits on North Los Robles Avenue in central Pasadena. Parking is free all day for this event, which removes the usual hassle. The Metro A Line also serves Pasadena, and the Memorial Park station is a short walk away if you would rather skip the drive.

For more picks, browse our Arts and Culture page, or check the upcoming events Los Angeles listings for other free days at museums around the region. The second Sunday comes around every month, so if the schedule does not fit this time, the next one is only a few weeks off.