News & Media
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of February 26, 2026 were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 5.98%, down slightly from 6.01% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.44%, up from 5.35% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Google pushed a more capable image model, Nano Banana 2 (Gemini 3.1 Flash Image), this past week. The new update is free for users across Gemini and AI Mode in Search. Likewise, the bonus is that this is the same tech that used to be reserved for paid tiers. The update from Gemini is now faster and better at rendering legible text and realistic infographics. The model inherits features from the Pro build. Of course, this includes real-time info, web-sourced imagery, and improved fidelity on complex prompts. In addition, the Gemini update offers finer control over aspect ratios and resolutions up to 4K. Creators will appreciate more consistent character and object counts in a single scene. This also includes sharper textures without always needing a paid subscription. The change with Gemini lowers the barrier for high-quality image generation and moves more visual power into everyday workflows across Google’s apps. Expect the model to show up inside Lens, the Google app, and Flow for video generation, making it a bigger piece of Google’s visual-AI toolkit.
Xiaomi unveiled a featherlight magnetic power bank that clings to phones like MagSafe and keeps a very modest capacity (around 5,000 mAh) while being absurdly thin, the sort of accessory that prioritizes everyday carryability over marathon charging. It’s clearly aimed at people who want the convenience of wireless top-ups without pocket bulk or a chunky brick glued to their phone. Expect fast Qi2 compatibility and a focus on aesthetics as much as utility: thinness, surface finish, and magnetic alignment matter here. For travelers or commuters who only need a quick mid-day top-up, this is a neat compromise between a full power station and no backup at all. The product hints that accessory makers are still finding room to innovate by trimming what we assume is necessary rather than adding more.
Apple’s iOS 26.4 beta includes a new age-verification flow for UK users, reflecting regulatory pressure and platform efforts to better gate age-restricted experiences and features. The build appears to add more robust checks during account setup and when enabling certain content, aiming to reduce misclassified under-18 accounts. It’s a reminder that platform UX increasingly has to balance seamless onboarding with compliance and child safety. For UK developers and parents, that means tighter integration between device identity and content controls, and possibly some extra steps during sign-up. Expect companies to continue refining how they verify age while trying not to create too much friction for legitimate signups.
Amazon expanded Alexa Plus with selectable personality styles, think “friendly,” “blunt,” or “chilled” — so subscribers can tweak tone and response flavor without changing functionality. The feature is a small but meaningful nudge toward personalization: the assistant’s answers stay the same, but delivery and phrasing shift to better fit the household vibe. It’s part of a broader trend where voice assistants try to be not just useful but emotionally calibrated to the user’s taste. For brands and voice designers, that opens creative opportunities (and testing questions) around tone, brand voice, and UX continuity across devices. The rollout may also reignite conversations about how much personalization should be machine-driven versus user-declared.
YouTube is beefing up its lower-priced Premium Lite tier to include background play and offline downloads. Of course, other perks like ad-free are on hold for the full Premium plan. The tweak is all about price sensitivity: give casual power users what they need to enjoy content on the go. For the platform, it’s a retention play that smooths churn while still segmenting features for higher-value subscribers. Consumers who stream on mobile or commute regularly will likely see this as a clear value play. Expect the change to pressure other streaming apps to rethink a skinny, essentials-first subscription tier.
Origin Wireless has been bought by ADT, the startup known for Wi-Fi-based motion and presence sensing. Likewise, the acquisition folds wireless AI detection into its smart-home security stack to improve non-camera sensing and reduce false alarms. The technology can infer occupancy and subtle motion from radio signals. Of course, this is handy for privacy-sensitive setups or places where cameras are impractical. For homeowners, it could mean smarter arming modes and fewer nuisance trips. Integrators can expect it to blend different sensor modalities into a coherent automation story. The acquisition signals ADT’s push to make its platform more context-aware using non-visual signals. In addition, it also accelerates product differentiation in a crowded security market. Watch for tighter hardware-software bundles and new subscription options that lean on advanced sensing as a premium feature.
This weekend, February comes to a close, and with it, March arrives. Make the most of the weekend and a new month with fun local events. From Frieze Art Fest to wine tastings and more, there is no shortage of things to do around town! Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from February 27 through March 1.
Where: Hollywood
When: March 1
What: Browse poolside cabanas filled with standout works from 56 galleries around the world when the Felix Art Fair returns to the Hollywood Roosevelt during L.A. Art Week. Inspired by the intimate hotel art fairs of the ’90s, the event brings together emerging exhibitors and established galleries in a uniquely relaxed setting. Single-day passes are $75, with run-of-show access available for $100.
When: February 28
Where: Lincoln Heights
What: Celebrate Lunar New Year at Benny Boy Brewing with a free concert by multilingual singer and accordionist Jessica Fichot, whose band revives the glamorous swing sounds of old Shanghai. Enjoy Mandarin jazz, classic New Year songs, and Mandopop while sipping craft beer or cider and sampling local food vendors. The evening concludes with festive drumming and roaming lion dancers presented by the San Gabriel Valley Chinese Cultural Association.
Where: Chinatown
When: February 28
What: Celebrate Lunar New Year alongside your four-legged best friend at this dog-friendly festival at Blossom Plaza. Timed with the Firecracker Run’s Paw’er Dog Walk, the event features Year of the Fire Horse–themed pet photo ops, custom portraits, shopping from local pet vendors, and festive cultural activities for both pups and their humans.
When: February 17 – March 1
Where: Santa Monica
What: Frieze Los Angeles returns for its seventh West Coast edition, once again transforming a custom tent at Santa Monica Airport into a global art destination. Inside, more than 100 leading galleries showcase contemporary works alongside curated lounges and top local food vendors. While admission leans toward serious art lovers, the fair’s arrival also sparks a wave of free gallery openings and citywide art events throughout L.A. Art Week.
When: February 28
Where: Santa Monica
What: Celebrate Black History Month at this lively community festival at Virginia Avenue Park, now in its 11th year. Enjoy live music, dance performances, soul food, storytimes, and cooking demos from local chefs, all set to this year’s “Boots on the Ground” line-dancing theme. Bring a blanket, settle in for a picnic, and join the celebration of culture, community, and connection.
When: February 28 – May 23
Where: Long Beach
What: Step aboard the Queen Mary for an interactive murder mystery dinner inspired by a real 1967 voyage. This immersive experience blends a multi-course meal with live music, comedy, clues, and audience participation, placing guests inside their own Agatha Christie–style whodunit. Equal parts spooky and playful, it’s a theatrical night of dining and detective work at sea.
When: February 22
Where: Glendale
What: Roll into nostalgia at Old School R&B Roller Skate Night, where smooth ’80s and ’90s classics set the vibe for an evening on wheels. Bring your own skates or rent a pair at the window and glide to timeless hits while catching up with friends and fellow skaters. All skill levels are welcome for this laid-back night of music, movement, and retro fun.
When: February 27
Where: The Shops at Sportsmen’s Lodge
What: Settle in for a nostalgic outdoor screening of The Sandlot during this silent movie night under the stars. Tickets include blankets, chairs, headphones, and popcorn for a cozy, family-friendly evening filled with laughs and classic summertime vibes. Doors open at 6pm, so arrive early, grab your snacks, and get comfortable.
When: February 20
Where: Tansy | Burbank
What: Unwind in the Tansy garden during this guided Mountain Iris Paint Night, where guests will create a 16” x 20” floral-inspired painting with step-by-step instruction from artist Stormy Tripp. Open to all skill levels, the relaxed workshop provides all materials and invites participants to bring their favorite drinks and snacks while they paint. Leave with a finished masterpiece and a creative evening well spent.
When: February 26 – March 1
Where: Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas Westlake
What: Celebrate storytelling and cinema at the 2nd Annual Ladyface Mountain Film Festival, taking place February 26 through March 1, 2026, at Cinépolis Westlake Village. The multi-day festival features film screenings, documentary blocks with filmmaker Q&As, networking events, receptions, and a closing awards brunch. Film lovers and creatives alike can enjoy a full weekend of premieres, conversations, and a community centered around independent filmmaking.
When: February 28
Where: 1050 W Potrero Rd, Thousand Oaks
What: Enjoy an afternoon of wine and scenic vineyard views during Mizel Estate Wines’ private Wine Tasting in the Vineyard experience. Guests will tour the estate’s vines before relaxing on the outdoor terrace with a guided tasting flight of rich, fruit-forward red wines. Two seatings are available on February 28, with advance reservations required for this 21+ event.
When: February 28
Where: 4101 Las Posas Rd, Camarillo
What: Sing your heart out at this free, family-friendly community sing-along hosted by the Los Robles Children’s Choir. Led by a professional song leader and pianist, these joyful gatherings welcome all ages and experience levels for an afternoon of music, laughter, and connection. Multiple dates and locations across Ventura County make it easy to join the fun.
Few neighborhoods in Los Angeles balance creativity and comfort quite like Silver Lake. From inventive fusion concepts to neighborhood bagel shops and wine bars tucked into courtyards, the area continues to define casual-cool dining. If you’re searching for the top restaurants in Silver Lake, this curated list highlights ten standouts that capture the neighborhood’s eclectic spirit.
Location: 654 North Hoover Street, Los Angeles, California 90004
Doto has quickly become a local favorite with its all-day California izakaya menu. Daytime highlights include a bento box, karaage and waffle, and an ikura-topped sashimi bowl, while dinner brings cone-shaped hand rolls and indulgent dishes like smoked brisket fried rice. On sunny afternoons, the spacious patio makes it one of the most inviting stops among the top restaurants in Silver Lake.
Location: 4331 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Kenbey Sushi delivers pristine fish and thoughtful omakase from chef Kenji Koyama. Bluefin toro, Japanese mackerel, and expertly prepared sashimi showcase the restaurant’s commitment to quality. With vegan options and daytime hours, Kenbey earns its place among the top restaurants in Silver Lake for both lunch and dinner.
Location: 4114 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90029
Bulan proves that plant-based Thai cuisine can be deeply satisfying. Classic dishes are recreated with tofu and house-made faux proteins, and many options can be prepared gluten-free. Sweet finishes like mango sticky rice round out a menu that makes Bulan one of the most versatile picks among the top restaurants in Silver Lake.
Location: 3926 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90029
Tucked into a charming courtyard, La Pharmacie du Vin specializes in European wines served by the bottle or glass. A concise menu of salads, vegetables, and cheeses pairs perfectly with a curated pour. For a relaxed evening of sipping and snacking, it’s a refined choice among the top restaurants in Silver Lake.
Location: 3322 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Night + Market Song remains a lively mainstay, serving Thai favorites alongside inventive creations like catfish tamales and a grapow Crunchwrap Supreme. The wine list is extensive and encouraged, making every visit feel celebratory. Its consistent energy keeps it firmly among the top restaurants in Silver Lake.
Location: 2829 Bellevue Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Maury’s stands out in L.A.’s crowded bagel scene with chewy, well-crafted bagels and stellar sandwiches. Cream cheese and lox or vegan cashew spreads elevate each bite. Grab one to-go and head to a nearby park for a quintessential Silver Lake experience.
Location: 2943 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90026
Azizam brings homestyle Persian cooking to the neighborhood. Mezze plates layered with olives, shirazi salad, and yogurt pair beautifully with kofteh tabrizi or turmeric-braised chicken. Its warm flavors and thoughtful desserts secure its place among the top restaurants in Silver Lake.
Location: 2852 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Bodega Park blends New York bodega nostalgia with Korean and Southern California influences. Standout sandwiches include pork bulgogi rolls and chopped cheese classics, alongside excellent coffee. It’s a casual yet creative addition to the top restaurants in Silver Lake.
Location: 2903 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Izakaya Osen shines with kushiyaki skewers and signature bowls like toro unagi. Sushi, hot pot, and seafood round out a menu built for sharing. Reservations are wise at this busy Sunset Boulevard favorite.
Location: 2711 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Pijja Palace fuses Indian flavors with Italian and sports bar vibes. From peri peri pizzas to tomato masala rigatoni and spiced wings, the menu is joyful and bold. Its playful cocktails and cardamom soft serve ensure it remains one of the top restaurants in Silver Lake.
Los Angeles may be synonymous with Hollywood lights and red carpets, but beneath the glitz lies a city layered with stories. From early Spanish roots to architectural movements and cultural revolutions, L.A.’s past is woven into its streets, facades, and public spaces. Its historic landmarks and enduring institutions offer a window into the people and moments that shaped the City of Angels. Whether you’re a devoted history buff or simply looking to see a different side of the city, exploring these sites reveals a deeper, more textured Los Angeles.
Perched above the Pacific, the Getty Villa transports visitors back to the ancient world with its meticulous re-creation of a Roman country estate. Home to the J. Paul Getty Museum’s collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities, the space feels as immersive as it is educational. Marble corridors, tranquil reflecting pools, and manicured gardens frame the experience, while sweeping ocean views complete the sense of escape. It’s a destination where history, art, and landscape converge in unforgettable fashion.
Since opening in 1935, the Griffith Observatory has invited Angelenos to look both outward and inward, toward the stars and toward a deeper understanding of science. Set high in Griffith Park, the Art Deco landmark pairs hands-on exhibits and public telescope viewings with some of the most sweeping vistas in the city. By day, visitors can take in panoramic views stretching from downtown to the Pacific; by night, the focus shifts skyward to constellations and distant planets. It remains one of Los Angeles’s most beloved cultural and scientific treasures.
Often referred to as the birthplace of Los Angeles, Olvera Street pulses with the spirit of the city’s Mexican roots. This colorful corridor is lined with historic adobe structures, lively marketplaces, and family-run restaurants that keep tradition alive through food, music, and craft. More than just a shopping destination, it feels like stepping into a living timeline, one that honors generations of cultural influence and community pride. It’s a place where heritage isn’t just preserved, but celebrated every day.
Completed in 1893, the Bradbury Building stands as one of Los Angeles’s most striking architectural landmarks. Its luminous interior, defined by intricate wrought-iron railings, marble staircases, and vintage open-cage elevators, feels suspended in time. Sunlight filters through the glass ceiling, casting dramatic shadows that have made it a sought-after filming location, including a memorable appearance in Blade Runner. Even today, stepping inside feels like entering a different era of the city’s design history.
Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard, the Hollywood Walk of Fame celebrates Los Angeles’s enduring influence on the entertainment world. More than 2,600 terrazzo-and-brass stars line the sidewalks, honoring icons across film, television, music, radio, and theater. Each name embedded in the pavement tells a story of ambition, artistry, and cultural impact. Together, they form a living tribute to the talent and dreams that have defined Hollywood for generations.
Comprising 17 interwoven spires and sculptural forms, the Watts Towers stand as one of Los Angeles’s most distinctive landmarks. Created by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia over more than three decades, the structures reflect a singular vision brought to life through persistence and imagination. Built from steel and adorned with mosaics of glass shards, seashells, and ceramic tiles, the towers shimmer with handcrafted detail. The result is an extraordinary achievement in folk art and self-taught architecture that continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
Opened in 1939, Union Station stands as one of the final grand railway terminals built during America’s golden age of train travel. Its soaring ceilings, hand-painted tiles, and leather seating reflect a seamless blend of Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, and Art Deco design. Even today, the station feels cinematic, both a transportation hub and a preserved piece of architectural history.
From ancient art treasures to storied film locations and cultural corridors, Los Angeles’s historic landmarks reveal the many layers that shape the city. Exploring these sites offers more than beautiful backdrops; it provides a deeper appreciation for the people, movements, and moments that continue to define L.A.’s evolving story.
Mortgage rates hit their lowest level since September 15, 2022 – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of February 19, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.01%, down from 6.09% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.35%, down from 5.44% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 49,635.97, up 0.3% from 49,500.93 last week. It is up 3.3% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 6,909.51, down 0.4% from 6,936.76 last week. The S&P is up 0.8% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 22,886.07, up 1.5% from 22,546.67 last week. It is down 1.5% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025.
U.S. Treasury Bonds – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.04%, down from 4.04% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.69%, down slightly from 4.69% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.
California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 256,550 on an annualized basis in January, down 10.8% from 287,570 in December and down 1.3% from 260,040 last January. The statewide median price paid for a home in was $823,180 in January, down 3.2%from $850,680 in December, and down 1.9% from $839,130 one year ago. The $823,180 median price marked to lowest median price in 23-months according to the California Association of Realtors.
Have a Great Weekend!
There’s a particular kind of magic that settles over Southern California as we go from late February to early March. The air softens, the light lingers just a little longer, and suddenly your outdoor spaces begin whispering about dinner parties, citrus cocktails, and evenings under the stars. Before spring fully arrives, now is the ideal moment to focus on pre-spring garden prep in Southern California. Consider this thoughtful reset that blends practicality with polish.
Here’s how to prepare your garden for a season of growth and effortless entertaining.
If you haven’t already, early March is your final window to prune roses. Proper pruning encourages healthy growth and abundant blooms later in the season. Remove dead or crossing branches, shape the plant for airflow, and cut just above outward-facing buds to guide new growth.
As part of your pre-spring garden prep in Southern California, apply fresh mulch around the base to retain moisture and protect roots from fluctuating temperatures. A well-pruned rose bush now will reward you with dramatic blooms just in time for spring gatherings.
Winter rains can deplete soil nutrients, making early spring the perfect time to enrich your beds. Loosen compacted soil, remove debris, and mix in organic compost or a high-quality soil conditioner. Healthy soil is the foundation of successful pre-spring garden prep in Southern California, especially if you plan to plant herbs or seasonal vegetables.
For raised beds and planters, consider replacing the top few inches of soil to give new plantings the best possible start. It’s a simple step that yields noticeably stronger growth.
Southern California’s climate allows for early planting. Now is the time to introduce herbs like basil, thyme, rosemary, cilantro, and mint. Not only do they thrive in mild temperatures, but they also double as stylish additions to patio planters.
Incorporating edible elements into your pre-spring garden prep in Southern California makes outdoor entertaining feel organic and elevated. Imagine stepping outside to snip fresh herbs for a spring salad or cocktail garnish. This makes your garden equal parts functional, beautiful, and deeply satisfying.
Citrus trees are a Southern California staple, and early March is prime time for care. Inspect for pests, trim minor dead growth, and feed trees with a citrus-specific fertilizer to encourage strong fruit production. Consistent watering as temperatures rise will help support developing blossoms.
Thoughtful citrus care is an essential step in pre-spring garden prep in Southern California, especially for homeowners who value both aesthetics and harvest.
Garden prep isn’t just about plants; it’s also about presentation. Wipe down outdoor furniture, replace worn cushions, and consider introducing new textiles in neutral or soft seasonal tones. Adding lanterns, fresh planters, or an updated outdoor rug instantly elevates the space.
By combining plant care with subtle design upgrades, your pre-spring garden prep in Southern California becomes a transformation.
With just a few intentional updates now, your outdoor space will be ready to bloom beautifully into the months ahead.
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of February 19, 2026 were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.01%, down from 6.09% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.35%, down from 5.44% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Stay connected in the world of tech and media with this week’s wrap-up. From Meta and its foray into smartwatches to Apple’s plan for smart eyewear, and more, we’re covering the major headlines. Check out the latest news in this week’s blog!
In product news, Google’s Snapseed for iOS now includes its own camera. Likewise, the update brings manual controls, saved looks you can reapply after the shot, and a suite of retro film emulation filters. The latter of the updates was inspired by Kodak and Fujifilm. The change turns Snapseed from a pure editor into a shoot-and-polish app, which shortens the loop for creators who like to capture mobile moments then immediately craft a finished look. UI polish, like color themes and editable edit stacks, means you can experiment with a vibe, shoot, and then tweak the stack after seeing the photo in context. For photographers who loved Snapseed’s editing depth, the camera addition keeps that power in one place instead of bouncing between apps. Expect Android to follow in time, but for now, iOS users get the early taste.
Reports say Meta is planning a smartwatch for 2026 that could act as a long-term foothold in wearables, pairing health and notification features with tighter connections to Meta’s social and AR ambitions. The Meta device is framed as less about replacing your phone and more about extending presence; quick responses, lightweight sensors, and hands-free social touchpoints that feed into Quest and other services. If Meta nails battery life and basic health tracking, the watch becomes a neat way to keep users tied to the company’s network outside the phone screen. The real test will be app depth and privacy controls: users want convenience, but they also expect clear data governance from a social platform. Watch for how the product balances social hooks with practical daily utility when it shows up.
Audible introduced an “Immersion” reading experience that tightly syncs ebook text with audiobook playback, so you can read on the page while the narration follows; handy for study, language learning, or simply staying focused. The feature tries to bridge the gap between listening and reading by keeping bookmarks, timestamps, and progress in sync across formats so you can flip between modes without losing your place. For publishers and creators, it’s a value add that could bolster bundled sales and deeper engagement with long-form content. Consumers who switch between audio and print will appreciate the frictionless handoff, especially for textbooks or annotated editions. If the sync is accurate across editions, this could change how many of us consume long reads; listen, skim, then re-read with the voice guiding you.
Supply-chain reports and leaks continue to suggest Apple is exploring a trio of wearables: smart glasses with AR smarts, a tiny AirTag-like AI “pin” for ambient prompts, and next-gen AirPods with deeper AI features. The common thread is Apple’s push toward on-body computing that’s lighter than a headset but more proactive than a phone; a layered approach that gives users choice in how they access quick AI interactions. If Apple rolls this out carefully, expect a big focus on privacy, on-device processing, and tight integration with iPhone ecosystems rather than standalone cloud reliance. Timelines are still murky, and designs can shift, but the rumors show Apple experimenting across form factors rather than betting everything on one device type. For designers and developers, the key will be how those devices expose APIs and experiences without fragmenting the platform.
This month, WordPress rolled out a new AI assistant that lets site owners make edits and generate content using plain-language prompts; think “rewrite this section for local SEO” or “create a three-slide product deck” and watch the CMS do the heavy lifting. The assistant is positioned to streamline small-team workflows: quick copy, layout tweaks, and image suggestions that used to require multiple tools or human freelancers. For publishers and small businesses, it’s a productivity boost that lowers the friction to maintain fresh, optimized content. As always, the caveats are accuracy, tone control, and the need for human review, but the convenience factor is immediate. Expect the feature to accelerate A/B testing and rapid iteration for WordPress sites that lean into AI-assisted editing.
Tenways debuted the CGO, a compact e-bike that twists and folds flat so it can slide into tight storage spaces, ride shares, or trunk corners without drama. The design balances rideability with packability: it’s not trying to be a full-size commuter bike, but it hits the sweet spot for last-mile runs and city dwellers who need storage thrift without giving up decent range. Practical details like folding ergonomics, battery access, and ride comfort will determine whether urban commuters swap a folding bike for this electric model. For apartment dwellers and multimodal travelers, the CGO’s flat profile is a genuine life hack; carry it onto a train, stash it under a desk, or tuck it in a closet with far less fuss than a bulky frame. If Tenways nails durability and serviceability, compact e-bikes like the CGO could become the default for dense-city mobility.
The weekend has finally arrived, and with it comes a range of local fun. From Lunar New Year celebrations to Lady Gaga and more, there is no shortage of happenings around town! Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from February 20 through February 22.
Where: Chinatown
When: February 21
What: Celebrate Lunar New Year at one of Los Angeles’ longest-running traditions, the 127th annual Golden Dragon Parade. Lion dancers, cultural performers, marching groups, and vibrant floats will wind through Chinatown in a lively afternoon procession filled with music and color. The festivities also coincide with a free Lunar New Year festival at Central Plaza, making it a full day of celebration.
When: February 21 – February 22
Where: L.A. Zoo
What: Every year, the L.A. Zoo hosts an animal-filled celebration of the Lunar New Year. (2026 is the year of the horse, and though the zoo may not be home to horses, you can see their cousins, the zebras.) Take a self-guided tour through the animals of the Chinese zodiac, watch special feedings of the zoo’s inhabitants, and write down your hopes for the new year on the Wall of Well Wishes. You can also catch the Asian Arts Talents Foundation’s Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese dance performances, as well as calligraphy demos and Chinese fan decorating. All weekend activities are included in the price of zoo admission.
Where: Various locations
When: February 22
What: Explore L.A.’s cultural scene during Museums Free-for-All, when nearly 30 museums across the region offer free general admission for one day only on February 22. It’s the perfect chance to visit iconic spots like LACMA, the Academy Museum, the Autry, the La Brea Tar Pits, and more without the usual entry fee. Special exhibitions and parking may still require payment, but the citywide art crawl is well worth the outing.
When: February 22
Where: Long Beach
What: Celebrate Black History Month at the Museum of Latin American Art during a free family festival honoring the African influence across Latin America and the Americas. The lively event features DJ sets, Afro–Puerto Rican music, Cuban dance performances, drumming, artist conversations, and hands-on art workshops. Food vendors and cultural programming round out a vibrant day of music, creativity, and community.
When: Until February 23
Where: Inglewood
What: Now that her astonishing Coachella set and the first leg of her tour are behind us, Angelenos can partake in the mayhem once again: Lady Gaga will return her Mayhem Ball tour to the Forum in February. Expect Mayhem’s dance-pop return to work its way into much of the set alongside plenty of old favorites.
When: February 21 – February 22
Where: South LA
What: Plant lovers won’t want to miss the West Coast debut of PlantCon, the world’s largest plant hobbyist convention, arriving in Downtown L.A. at the Magic Box at the Reef. Browse a massive plant market featuring more than 200 vendors alongside workshops, seminars, and hands-on experiences like bonsai styling, terrarium design, and moss ball making. It’s a leafy paradise for collectors, beginners, and anyone looking to grow their green thumb.
When: February 22
Where: Glendale
What: Ring in Lunar New Year at The Grove and the Americana at Brand, where festive décor, special promotions, and limited-time treats bring extra sparkle to the shopping experience. Guests can pick up lucky red envelopes and exclusive gifts while supplies last, and the Americana will host a lively afternoon parade featuring lion and dragon dances, cultural performances, and live music. It’s a polished celebration blending tradition with classic L.A. style.
When: February 22
Where:822 N Hollywood Way| Burbank
What: Dive into cult cinema history with a special screening of the wild ’90s classic Freaked! presented by Contra Celluloid. The event features an in-person Q&A with director Tom Stern and artist Thom Nicolette, plus a fan coloring contest for a chance to win original production art from the film. A must-see night for movie lovers, nostalgia seekers, and anyone craving something wonderfully weird.
When: February 20
Where: Tansy | Burbank
What: Unwind with a restorative evening of sound healing and guided journaling inside the tranquil Tansy plant room. Surrounded by lush greenery, participants will relax to the soothing vibrations of crystalline sound bowls while reflecting, resetting, and reconnecting through mindful self-care. All experience levels are welcome for this calming, immersive wellness experience designed to restore balance and ease.
When: February 21
Where: Thousand Oaks Library (Newbury Park Branch), 2331 Borchard Rd
What: Meet #1 New York Times bestselling author Kelly Yang during this free author talk and book signing presented by the Friends of the Thousand Oaks Library. Across two sessions at the Newbury Park Library and Grant R. Brimhall Library, Yang will discuss her writing journey, the inspiration behind her beloved books, and themes of identity, resilience, and belonging. Books will be available for purchase, with signing opportunities following each talk.
When: February 21
Where: 936 Railroad Ave, Santa Paula
What: The 4th Annual UC Master Gardener Open House returns to the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula for a free, family-friendly celebration of native plants and sustainable gardening. Enjoy a keynote talk by Tataviam tribal member Julia Fireflower, hands-on workshops, milkweed processing demonstrations, and activities like native plant propagation and seed ball making led by local gardening experts. Drop in anytime between 11 am and 2 pm to learn, explore, and connect with Ventura County’s gardening community.
When: February 22
Where: Downtown Ventura
What: The 2026 Ventura Marathon and Half Marathon take place on Sunday, February 22, offering scenic point-to-point courses that begin in Ojai and finish along the coast in downtown Ventura. Runners will enjoy a fast, picturesque route from valley views to ocean breezes, with the marathon kicking off at 6:30 am. Whether racing for a personal best or soaking in the scenery, it’s a memorable way to start the day.