Living in Southern California I can never complain about there being nothing to do. There’s always something to do! It’s even better when that something benefits a good cause. Luckily, there’s a few events coming up that do just that and I thought I’d share them with you.

This Sunday, July 31 is the 6th annual Summer Soda Tasting at Galco’s Soda Pop Stop. I’ve attended the event in the past and it’s always a good time. For $15 you have the opportunity to sample a number of the unique sodas Galco’s has in stock including Bickford’s Australian soda and Zedazeni from the Republic of Georgia. The event benefits Friends of the Southwest Museum an organization dedicated to reopening the historic landmark.

From Thursday, August 4 – Saturday, August 6 the Cornerstone Theater Company presents Ghost Town in Venice. Conerstone is a non profit theater group dedicated to presenting plays with and about California communities. Ghost Town tells the story of a longtime Venice resident faced with choosing whether or not to sell her small home for a large profit. While she ponders what to do she’s visited with ghosts of Venice’s past, present and future. A suggested donation of $10 will get you into the show.

From Friday, August 5 – Sunday, August 7 the Ribs, Pigs & Watermelons Summer Festival will be held at Huntington State Beach.  This celebration will feature all things summer including BBQ competitions, watermelon eating contests, concerts and a classic car show.  It’s sure to be three days of fun and the proceeds benefit American Family Housing dedicated to serving homeless and low income families in Southern California. Admission for the 3 day fest is a mere $9 (with veterans and military getting in free).

Finally, on Saturday, August 13th will be the Fire It Up! BBQ Competition at the African American Firefighter Museum. The competition will bring together fire fighters from all over LA competing for BBQ glory. There will also a beer and wine garden, entertainment and museum tours. Admission is free and tastings are $15 (or $60 for VIP treatment). All proceeds benefit the museum and Fire Family Foundation dedicated to those affected by fire tragedies.

With these fun events the end of summer is bound to be a blast!