Frieze L.A. Guide: Where to See Art and Party This Week

Arts and culture writer Evan Nicole Brown shares her top picks for exhibitions, openings, and club nights during the annual art fair.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Frieze L.A. is in full swing, bringing the best art galleries from around the world to Santa Monica Airport. From must-see exhibitions at Hauser & Wirth and Karma to the legendary Parisian nightlife institution landing in West Hollywood, there's no shortage of art and culture events to check out this week. Brown also highlights alternative fairs like Butter and Felix, as well as notable museum shows exploring themes of creation, sports, and Chicano art.

Why it matters

Frieze L.A. is one of the most important annual art events in Los Angeles, drawing collectors, artists, and art enthusiasts from around the world. The fair and its surrounding programming offer a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse art scene in the city, showcasing both established and emerging talents. This guide provides an insider's look at the must-see exhibitions, parties, and other happenings that make Frieze L.A. week a highlight of the cultural calendar.

The details

Frieze L.A. takes place from February 26 to March 1 at the Santa Monica Airport, featuring booths from top galleries around the world. Highlights include Karma's presentation of works by Ernie Barnes and Milton Avery, and Hoffman Donahue's first expanded program highlighting Martine Syms. Hauser & Wirth is hosting opening parties for new shows by Christina Quarles and Eileen Harris Norton. The legendary Parisian nightlife institution Castel is also landing in West Hollywood for a three-night residency, bringing together the art, fashion, and music worlds. Alternative fairs like Butter and Felix are also taking place, showcasing L.A.'s established and emerging Black artists and the breadth of the city's art scene. Notable museum exhibitions include 'Beginnings' at the Getty, 'Fûtbol Is Life' at LACMA, and 'The Work Is Never Finished' at Louis Stern Fine Arts.

  • Frieze L.A. runs from February 26 to March 1.
  • Hauser & Wirth's opening party is on February 23.
  • Castel's three-night residency is from February 24-26.
  • Butter Art Fair runs from February 26 to March 1.
  • Felix Art Fair takes place from February 26 to March 1.

The players

Karma

An art gallery featuring paintings from Ernie Barnes and Milton Avery.

Hoffman Donahue

An art gallery presenting its first expanded program highlighting Martine Syms.

Hauser & Wirth

An art gallery hosting opening parties for new shows by Christina Quarles and Eileen Harris Norton.

Castel

A legendary Parisian nightlife institution landing in West Hollywood for a three-night residency.

Butter Art Fair

An alternative art fair founded in Indianapolis, making its inaugural debut in Los Angeles.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Frieze L.A. week offers a diverse array of art and cultural events, from must-see exhibitions at major galleries to alternative fairs spotlighting emerging talents and community-driven programming. Whether you're an art enthusiast, collector, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant creative scene, this guide provides a curated selection of the top happenings to check out.