Christine Nader

VIP Records is hosting its inaugural World Famous Block Party: Juneteenth Edition on Saturday, June 20. Hosted in Downtown Long Beach, the block party honors Black music, entrepreneurship and community. The theme “Celebrate Freedom Through Black Music,” will serve as a celebration and recognition of Black artists and innovators’ impact on American culture. Visitors will be able to revel in community while enjoying live music, food vendors and cultural pop-ups, as well as a kids’ play zone.

In the city of Long Beach, the main appeal lies in the latter part of its name. Residents find solace in taking walks on the beach through the gleaming sand as the water gently crashes at their feet. So, why is there so much plastic and trash that ends up on almost all beaches in the city? The Surfrider Foundation, a volunteer-activist environmental organization, has been focused on maintaining the world’s oceans and beaches for over 70 years.

Crowds forming along the sidewalk. Melodic voices filling the air with their vibrant harmonies. Joy radiating from the hearts of those watching. During Long Beach’s second annual Make Music Day festival on June 21, the summer solstice, local residents can stroll down to their local shops and parks to witness a citywide concert unfold in front of them – for free. The Fête de la Musique, also known as Make Music Day or World Music Day, originated in Paris in 1982 by the French Ministry for Culture.