Fridays off the 405 at the Getty

Where were you Friday afternoon at 6:00PM? If you work a general 9-5 type job, my guess would be right about… there.

That picture was from my vantage point atop the Getty Center watching the sun set over the Pacific enjoying live music and a martini while feeling sorry for all of those below me inching their way home on the 405.

I’ve been wanting to go to a Friday off the 405 at the Getty since I first moved to LA six months ago and heard about this yet I had always had something come up or couldn’t find someone to go with. But last Friday, I found a new friend, and off to the top of the hill I went.

It honestly was better than I was expecting. I don’t think there is a more perfect spot to be on a Friday night than right there. It was so beautiful and so LA all at the same time. Please excuse my crappy mobile phone camera pictures but you can imagine I’m sure.

There was a nice blend of people. You had young and old, hipsters to professionals, people in suits, little black dresses, to t-shirts and shorts. It wasn’t uptight at all for being a museum.

Last Friday, October 20th, Home Video and Fauna Flash performed. They were great and added the perfect score to this backdrop. It’s great that they use a space like this in this matter. I just wish they would stay open longer, say until midnight like Night Vision at the MOCA downtown. Too bad they only do that during the summer.

This event takes place once a month and is FREE! Parking will cost you $8, but for that you get a easy guaranteed parking space, a nice train ride along the hillside up to the Getty, and of course 3 blissful hours of high art, alcohol, gardens, and a well known indie music artist or two. And if you bring the right someone, I’m sure you’ll get something else also. =)

This really is the best thing to do. Take off work early, make it there for sunset and you will be glad you did.

A note: Because this event is held in the courtyard, reservations and tickets are not necessary. But, for most Getty events, including visiting the Malibu Villa, you have to go online or call to make reservations. This includes their lecture series, Courses and Demonstrations, concerts, films, and anything else that’s going on. Most events are free, but most of the courses you have to pay for. My advice would be to try the Friday concert series. I saw Chris O’Riley about 5 months ago there and it was amazing.

Next Friday off the 405 is November 17. Click here for more information.

Fridays off the 405
6PM-9PM
Once a month
Cost: FREE (parking $8)

J. Paul Getty Museum
1200 Getty Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049-1687
Phone: (310) 440-7330