Theaters, Shops Offer Free Admission, Donate During Nationwide Shutdown

American Cinematheque, Vidiots among LA venues providing free access on Friday

Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:23pm

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In response to the recent ICE shooting in Minneapolis, non-profit organizations and small businesses across the country are participating in a nationwide shutdown and general strike to show solidarity with the people of Minnesota and activism against ICE. In Los Angeles, many restaurants and shops are either shutting down entirely or staying open while making donations to social justice organizations.

Why it matters

The nationwide shutdown is a show of unity and support for the Minneapolis community following the ICE shooting, as well as a broader statement against the actions of ICE. By offering free admission and donating proceeds, LA venues and businesses are demonstrating their commitment to the cause.

The details

Vidiots in Eagle Rock will make all screenings free of charge on Friday, including showings of "What's Love Got to Do With It" and "UHF". The American Cinematheque will offer free admission to "Something Wild" at the Aero in Santa Monica and "Horse Feathers" and "The Killing of a Chinese Bookie" at the Los Feliz 3, with free popcorn and soda included at the Aero. Other cultural institutions like Braindead Studios and the Museum of Neon Art are also participating in the shutdown. Restaurants closing for the day include Joan's on Third, Wilde's, Bar Siesta, and more, while others like Kismet, Maru Coffee, and Homestate will remain open but donate proceeds to organizations like CHIRLA.

  • The nationwide shutdown and general strike is taking place on Friday, January 30, 2026.

The players

American Cinematheque

A non-profit organization that operates movie theaters in Los Angeles, offering free admission during the nationwide shutdown.

Vidiots

A non-profit movie theater in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, offering free screenings on Friday as part of the nationwide shutdown.

IATSE Local 800

The Art Director's Guild, one of the organizations supporting the nationwide shutdown and general strike.

WGA West

The Writers Guild of America West, another organization supporting the nationwide shutdown and general strike with a presence at the National Day of Action rally in Los Angeles.

CHIRLA

The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, an organization receiving donations from some LA businesses participating in the shutdown.

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What’s next

The nationwide shutdown and general strike is a one-day event taking place on Friday, January 30, 2026. Businesses and organizations participating have committed to closing or donating proceeds for that day only.

The takeaway

By offering free admission and donating proceeds, LA venues and businesses are demonstrating their commitment to supporting the Minneapolis community and activism against ICE. This nationwide shutdown is a powerful show of unity and solidarity in the face of injustice.