City Celebrates Women’s History Month

March 2026 in West Hollywood wasn’t just another month on the calendar. It was a full-on celebration of trailblazing women, vibrant stories, and community connection, as the City marked its 40th annual commemoration of National Women’s History Month.

From the moment purple and gold globe lanterns lit up Santa Monica Boulevard, the tone was set: this was a month to honor, uplift, and maybe even dance a little while doing it. Street pole banners lined the boulevard like a hall of fame in the open air, spotlighting iconic figures ranging from Maya Angelou and Rosa Parks to Dolly Parton and Oprah Winfrey — an inspiring reminder that history isn’t just something you read, it’s something you walk past (and maybe take a selfie with) every day.

The month kicked off with a literary twist as the Women and Books club gathered, both in person and virtually, to dive into The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. It was equal parts book discussion and bonding session, proving that a good story is even better when shared.

Things took a lively turn on Friday, March 6, 2026, when the 10th Annual International Women’s Day Dance Festival brought rhythm, movement, and serious artistic flair to the City’s Council Chambers/Public Meeting Room. Hosted by the ever-fabulous Linda Recessionista, the evening showcased powerful dance films and honored standout contributors to the LA dance scene. And because no celebration should end on a quiet note, the night flowed seamlessly into a festive after-party, launching a full weekend of International Women’s Day festivities.

The following day, on Saturday March 8, 2026, the Women’s Health Symposium at Plummer Park offered something equally powerful: knowledge. With workshops, panels, and expert speakers, attendees explored topics focused on wellness and preventive care. Taking charge of your health is always one of the most important things any of us can do.

On that International Women’s Day, Fiesta Hall came alive with music, performances, and art during a joyful community celebration hosted with the City’s Russian-Speaking Advisory Board. It was a colorful, high-energy reminder that honoring women can, and should, be a celebration.

Check out the event photos by Kristina Sado on the City’s official Flickr account.

Mid-month, the literary vibes returned with Writing Together: Pomodoros, Marinara, and Friendship, a virtual conversation featuring acclaimed authors reflecting on creativity, discipline, and the magic of community. (Also, arguably the best event title of the month.)

The month-long celebration reached a glamorous high point on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at the Women in Leadership Awards, where a remarkable group of leaders, from entrepreneurs to educators, were honored for their contributions. With a lifetime achievement award and a room full of changemakers, it was a night that sparkled with inspiration.

Photographer Joshua Barash captured the event.

The month wrapped on a poetic note on Sunday, March 29, 2026 with Off the Page: Poetry from the Archives, where voices from the June L. Mazer Lesbian Archives brought history to life through verse. It was thoughtful, moving, and the perfect closing chapter to a month dedicated to storytelling in all its forms.

Photographer Kristina Sado’s photos captured participants, including City of West Hollywood Poet Laureate Jen Cheng.

All in all, the City of West Hollywood didn’t just celebrate women’s history it made history feel alive, vibrant, and joyfully unforgettable.