“Fiesta” means “party,” and “La Ballona” means “the balloon.” Actually, no knows the origin of the name “Ballona,” other than it refers to the 19th-century rancho that is now Culver City, Mar Vista and Palms. So I say we go with balloons. And it wouldn't be a party without balloon animals, so expect those and more at Culver City's Fiesta La Ballona , an annual community event, first held in 1951, for the rancho's modern-day residents to gather for some good, old-fashioned fun. This year's entertainment: live music by Danny Bergen, Aquarius, the Disco Fever Band, Bob's Yer Uncle, Jumpin' Joz Band, Dime Box Band, Susie Hansen Latin Band, and Lisa Haley & the Zydekats; dance moves by Grupo Folclorico Texometzintli, Ho'aloha Polynesian Dancers, and the Senior Steppers; plus food vendors, carnival rides, a petting zoo, and a beer and wine garden. Up, up and away!

Fri., Aug. 27; Sat., Aug. 28; Sun., Aug. 29, 2010

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