As darkness fell in Los Angeles, locals flooded into the Natural History Museum for the monthly “First Fridays” event. Some attendees are eager to spend an evening among the animals and exhibits, others patiently waiting to see headlining bands Salt Petal and Kinky.

The atmosphere inside was lively, with music pouring out of every room and exhibits open to the public for attendees to look at pieces of natural history. Linda Gallegos Segovia, 30, expressed her appreciation for the aesthetic of the event. “It was an interesting venue, and the atmosphere was good,” said Segovia. “I’m a museum hopper so I was excited to go to the other events, [too].”

One end of the main floor in the African Mammal Hall hosted DJ Panamami, a native Angeleno whose real name is Francesca Harding. She filled the room with anything from calypso, hip-hop, and upbeat cumbia music. Harding, who performed at the event for the first time, says that the event was unlike anything she had ever done before. “I had a blast DJing the event. It was truly an honor,” she said.

Among the different mammal displays at the other end of the main hall was opening band Salt Petal, and the small but intimate crowd circled in around them to get a better view. Their music is a mix of beach- inspired indie melodies with a twist of southern Mexican flair. Complete with a trombone and many different string instruments, the band’s vocalist, Autumn Harrison, danced across the stage, engaging and captivating the audience. Psychology major Jennifer Flores, 19, says the artist’s stage presence was what really sold her. “You could really tell that her music was a reflection of her, and her wardrobe was awesome,” said Flores.”

The energy flowed through the entire room as the audience burst into applause when headlining band Kinky took the stage and began their set. Originally from the city of Monterrey in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Kinky’s music combines techno, funk, and primarily Spanish lyrics to create a unique sound that the audience responded well too. Segovia, who has been a fan for 14 years, said that she enjoyed how comfortable the band made the audience feel. “Everyone had their moment to shine,” said Segovia. “They have a very loyal fan base, so a lot of people know each other. I knew at least 10 people that were there.”

Whether someone is looking for a night of cultural enlightening or a just a fun friday night in downtown LA, First Fridays delivers. “This type of event draws a really interesting crowd, from people who are specifically there for the event to those who are primarily there for the exhibits,” said Harding. “The night was a blend of great music, rare exhibits and a down-to-earth crowd — basically a perfect Friday night.”