Alma del Barrio's Salsa Fest IX at LMU

Salsa Fest IX takes over Lawton Plaza on the Loyola Marymount University campus on Sunday, October 18. It is hosted by LMU Radio's KXLU 88.9FM and KLMU Online Radio, and it is a full day of Latin music, dancing, food and local vendors. If you are mapping out things to do in Los Angeles this month, this one is a good pick for anyone who likes to move.

When: Sunday, October 18, 2026, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Where: Lawton Plaza, Loyola Marymount University Drive, Los Angeles, CA Price: Free, with a suggested $10 donation per adult Tickets: E-ticket required through Eventbrite

What to expect

The flyer bills it as "the best in the world of Latin music," and the tagline is "Que siga la rumba," or keep the rumba going. That sets the tone: salsa on the speakers and on stage, space to dance, and a day built around community rather than a single headliner. The organizers have not published a lineup on the event page, so check the Eventbrite listing closer to the date for updates.

Expect local vendors and food as part of the mix, which makes it easy to drop in for an hour or settle in for the full seven. Because it is hosted by a college radio station with a long history of Latin programming, the focus is on the music itself.

The donation and the ticket

Entry is free, but you do need an e-ticket, so reserve one ahead of time instead of counting on walking up. The organizers suggest a voluntary $10 donation per adult to help support the music, dance and community side of the celebration. Every contribution helps put the festival together, and it is entirely optional.

Getting there

Lawton Plaza sits on the LMU campus near Westchester, close to the west side of the city. Parking and campus access can change on event days, so look at the Eventbrite page for the latest directions before you go. Carpooling or a rideshare drop-off is the easiest plan on a busy Sunday.

If you are building a plan for LA events this weekend or the one after, pair this with brunch nearby and plan to arrive early to get a good spot near the dance floor. For more picks, browse our festivals listings.