UCLA PRESENTS THE BEST in arts and culture, community events, sports, and entertainment. Keep an eye out for UCLA’s most fabulous events this month, from theatrical performances to spirited watch parties. For more UCLA events, visit community.ucla.edu.

OCTOBER 9 | NOON

Beyond Dreamers: Transitions to Adulthood in an Uncertain Age

In their book Beyond Dreamers, sociologists Sofya Aptekar and Amy Hsin challenge the “Dreamer” narrative, which portrays undocumented youth in a fixed social position. This book talk highlights how this narrowed lens overlooks the diverse experiences of young immigrants. By dispelling “Dreamer” myths, Aptekar and Hsin address the complexities undocumented youth face beyond their legal status, including in personal relationships and employment. This discussion will explore the varied narratives of undocumented youth across the country. Register here.


OCTOBER 9 | 9:30 A.M. 

​​​Tiananmen Tonight: Film Screening and Discussion

Join co-directors Bestor Cram and Michael Streissguth at an exclusive screening of Tiananmen Tonight, their documentary looking at the groundbreaking coverage of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests by American journalist Dan Rather and the CBS News team. At a time when media in the U.S. face ongoing attempts at censorship by the federal government, this documentary highlights journalists’ critical role in holding authorities accountable and keeping the public informed. Following the film’s screening, Cram and Streissguth will sit down with the audience for a thoughtful discussion. Learn more here.


OCTOBER 13 | 11 A.M.  

Out of Sight, At Sea: Migrant Labor and the Hidden Worlds of Global Seafood 

Have you ever wondered who caught the seafood on your plate? Join sociologist and ethnographer Beatrice Zani as she dives into her research, which explores the lives of migrant fishermen across Southeast Asia. Drawing from 140 interviews, Zani observes the individuals behind the distant fishing industry, examining their labor conditions and the industry’s impact on marine environments. RSVP here. 


OCTOBER 13 | 4:30 P.M.

Weaponized Uncertainty: Deepfakes, Democratic Resilience and the Scandinavian Test Case

The UCLA Center for European and Russian Studies welcomes you to a special talk by experts Elizabeth Ashley Fox-Jensen and Sue-Ellen Njekwa Ryberg. With the rise of artificial intelligence, it’s important to understand the technology’s potentially dire impact on our perception of reality. Fox-Jensen and Njekwa Ryberg discuss their concerns about how synthetic media increases misinformation, erodes public trust and threatens democracy. The event will be held online and in person at Bunche Hall. Register here.

OCTOBER 10 | 8 P.M.

Fall Exhibitions Celebration 

The Hammer Museum at UCLA is usually a serene place to escape, but it will be transformed into one big party to celebrate the opening of Huguette Caland’s and Mavis Pusey’s exhibitions. Members of the community may roam the galleries late at night and enjoy music in the courtyard by DJ Shay. Food and drinks will be provided but get there early because your RSVP doesn’t guarantee  entry. 


OCTOBER 10 | 8 P.M.  

Thikra: Night of Remembering  

The final touring production from the Akram Khan Company, Thikra: Night of Remembering embraces tradition, movement and heritage within contemporary and Bharatanatyam dance. With a brilliant international cast of women, Thikra explores spirits of the past through vibrant emotions and collective memories. This evocative production will transport you to a space that connects generations past and present. Find tickets here. 


OCTOBER 12 | 5:30 P.M.

cityLAB at 20 

In honor of cityLAB-UCLA’s 20th anniversary, students, alumni and partners are invited to this special program. A series of conversations will kick off the night, honoring the center’s mission of achieving a sustainable and equitable future through advanced research in civic life and urban planning. To close the event, a block party will be held in the Perloff Hall courtyard with food, drinks and music for all to enjoy. RSVP here.


OCTOBER 23–24 | 8 P.M. 

Aymeric Hainaux and François Chaignaud  

You may have seen a rap battle, but have you ever experienced a beatbox duel?  Come see Mirlitons, as musician Aymeric Hainaux and choreographer François Chaignaud create a night full of beatboxing, theatrics and dance. Mirlitons uniquely captures a dynamic range of movement and sound. Get your tickets here. 


OCTOBER 30 | 8 P.M. 

Beck + Col  

Don’t have any Halloweekend plans? You are in luck. The UCLA Nimoy Theater is hosting a special screening of the horror movie Red All Night. As the film’s traditional slasher setup takes a psychedelic turn, audiences will explore a monster-ridden forest and examine individualism as an ideology. Make your Halloween Eve one to remember with this screening. Reserve your tickets here.

OCTOBER 2 | 7 P.M. 

Women’s Volleyball vs. Michigan State  

After women’s sports dominated last school year, you’re not going to want to miss this women’s volleyball matchup against Michigan State University (which also features live student performances and chances to win exclusive prizes). Bring the energy to Pauley Pavilion and cheer the team onto victory. 


OCTOBER 24 | Time TBD 

Football vs. Michigan State  

Now that student tickets are free for all sports, nothing stands in the way of Bruins taking their spots at this season’s most riveting games. For this year’s homecoming contest, UCLA football will go head-to-head with the Michigan State Spartans. This event will feature special alumni appearances and exciting performances by UCLA’s Spirit Squad, Bruinettes and Marching Band. Celebrate with generations of Bruins at the Rose Bowl  and root on UCLA as they defend their winning streak against their Big Ten conference mates. Secure your tickets here.


THROUGH OCTOBER | Time Varies  

UCLA Game Watch Parties 

If you’re an out-of-state Bruin, a series of watch parties will allow you to show your school pride and cheer on your favorite UCLA teams. Whether it’s basketball or football, these exciting events take place at localbars/span>restaurantsacross the country, letting you connect with the UCLA community. Find a watch party near you and RSVP here.

OCTOBER 21 | NOON  

Taking Charge of Change 

Change is an inevitable part of life, so it’s important to learn the art of managing the unpredictable chaos that can arise. In Taking Charge of Change: Five Fundamental Truths for Mastering the Chaos of Life, career coach Jim Hjort ’94 discusses critical steps in achieving stability and personal growth. If you are overwhelmed by uncertainty or the ground shifting beneath your feet, this session will help you start to regain control over your life. RSVP here.


OCTOBER 25 | 9 A.M.  

29th Annual L.A. Cancer Challenge 5K Walk/Run  

Gear up for Halloween with a fun and rewarding event fit for the whole family. The L.A. Cancer Challenge features a 5K course that ropes throughout UCLA’s beautiful campus. From the Finish Line Donut Wall and Fit Family Expo to the Candy Land Kids Zone, this exciting event is full of festive surprises. UCLA Alumni get $5 off, and ticket purchases benefit the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research and the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases. Register here.