Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival

Each summer, Bard fanatics watch their favorite works come to life at the historic Old Zoo in Griffith Park. Independent Shakespeare Co. puts on a series of lively productions each week, inviting audiences to take a seat on the grass (read: bring a picnic blanket) and enjoy performances like this season’s headliners: Julius Caesar (July 5–31) and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Aug 9–Sept 3). After two seasons in a smaller section of the park, the productions are back on the main lawn of the Old Zoo—meaning reservations are no longer required, though they’re still appreciated.