Critical 5 things to do in L.A.: the big time, October 19-21

Los Angeles aficionados often find themselves recommending obscure indie shows (rather than concerts) and tiny restaurants only known in the culinary underground scene, rather than large foodie festivals. Suggesting those specialized and enigmatic events is definitely a worthwhile thing to do. However, you shouldn't overlook Los Angeles' bigger and more hyped up happenings. After all, sometimes something is highly anticipated because, well, it's going to be awesome.

Maroon 5
This Friday the mega-popular band, Maroon 5, is coming to L.A.'s Orpheum Theater. With a slew of hits under their belt, this group, led by front man Adam Levine, started strong when they debuted in 2002 with four hit singles, and has only gained momentum since. This is sure to be a great performance. After all, a man that claims to have moves like Mick Jagger can't exactly afford to phone it in.

The Script
The Greek Theater has booked an equally impressive act this weekend. Saturday night the Irish band that described the uneven aching of a broken heart to all of America in their breakout song, "Breakeven" is coming to tinsel town. The Script is full of passionate pop that will no doubt have the venue full of fans on their feet. This show will be as big as the band's ballads.

Happy Endings
The venue may be small, but this show is certainly going to be big. With a robust cast, this could be the best improv show you see all year. Long time patrons of Franklin Village's Upright Citizens Brigade (and this column) know that actor Adam Pally is a frequent flyer, often taking the stage creating hilarious comedy out of nothing. This Saturday he is dragging the rest of the cast from his ultra-funny hit television show, Happy Endings, up on stage with him. If this crew is half as funny as Pally, or as their characters on TV, this is going to be a big comedic event you really won't want to miss.

Don Felder
No, not Don Henley, the other Don. Don Felder of the iconic classic rock group, The Eagles, will be performing at The Troubadour this Sunday. Though he may not be the most famous of the Dons, he is no slouch when it comes to his influence on the music of The Eagles. Co-writing what is possibly their most famous hit, "Hotel California," among others, Felder is a musician that deserves to be recognized in his own right. He also has a few great songs from his solo career like "Never Surrender" from the Fast Times at Ridgemont High soundtrack. If he's not considered a big deal, he definitely should be.

Los Angeles Magazine's 2012 Food Event
Round out this big rock weekend with Los Angeles Magazine's 2012 Food Event on Sunday. Taking place in Malibu, this cuisine-focused event boasts a mouthwatering lineup of food and fun. Partnering with Malibu Family Wines, this festival is hosting a variety of chefs, sommeliers, culinary experts, and of course a ton to eat and drink. The drive from the city will be worth it to indulge in everything this event has to offer. There are even zebras and llamas onsite at the large expansive ranch where everything is taking place. It doesn't get any bigger than large game animals for an Angeleno.