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Pumpkin Patches, Apple Orchards, and Fun | Out & About

As the air grows crisper and the leaves turn to hues of orange and gold, Southern California’s countryside transforms into a fall wonderland. For those seeking a charming day trip filled with seasonal activities, the region’s apple orchards and pumpkin patches offer the perfect escape. Whether you’re picking fresh apples in Oak Glen or enjoying a scenic stroll through a pumpkin patch at Underwood Family Farms, these elevated farm experiences blend rustic charm with sophisticated fall fun.

Apple Picking in Oak Glen: A Slice of Autumn Bliss

Nestled in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, Oak Glen is a picturesque town famous for its apple orchards and quaint, small-town charm. Just an hour and a half from Los Angeles, this idyllic spot offers the perfect setting for a fall day trip. The apple harvest in Oak Glen begins in early September and continues through November, making autumn the ideal time to visit.

Step into any of Oak Glen’s many orchards, and you’ll feel transported to a different time. Apple picking at places like Los Rios Rancho and Riley’s Farm allows visitors to wander through orchards dotted with ripening apples, choosing from heirloom varieties like Arkansas Black, Rome Beauty, and Winesap. The experience is a sensory delight— the crisp mountain air, the vibrant colors of the apples, and the satisfying snap of an apple freshly picked from the tree.

In addition to apple picking, Oak Glen offers a variety of other sophisticated fall activities. Many of the orchards have their own farm-to-table restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh apple pie, cider, and seasonal dishes. You can even try your hand at pressing fresh cider at places like Willowbrook Apple Farm, adding a hands-on element to your visit. For a more refined experience, book a farm tour and learn about the history of apple growing in the region while enjoying the stunning mountain views.

Underwood Family Farms: A Luxury Pumpkin Patch Experience

For those in search of the perfect pumpkin, Underwood Family Farms offers a pumpkin patch experience that’s far from ordinary. The family-owned farm has become a beloved destination for fall enthusiasts looking for a fun, upscale outing. Underwood’s annual Fall Harvest Festival, running from late September through October is not to be missed! See the farm transform into a festive, colorful wonderland of pumpkins, hay bales, and harvest-themed displays.

What sets Underwood Family Farms apart is its variety of pumpkin patch experiences. You can stroll through rows of pumpkins! From tiny gourds to massive, prize-worthy pumpkins, there are plenty of choices. Likewise, all set against the backdrop of rolling hills and vibrant fall foliage. The farm offers both traditional pumpkin picking as well as special heirloom varieties.

Underwood Family Farms also offers more than just pumpkins. For a more curated experience, guests can enjoy tractor rides, a corn maze, and a pick-your-own vegetable garden. The farm’s produce section offers a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce, perfect for bringing a taste of fall home. In the mood to elevate your farm day experience? The farm offers weekend events featuring live music, farm-to-table dining, and local artisan markets.

A Perfect Fall Day Trip for All

From picking apples to selecting the perfect pumpkin, these harvest hubs offer more than just seasonal fun. Each destination provides a chance to slow down, savor the moment, and experience the simple pleasures of autumn. These day trips blend the rustic charm of the countryside with the elevated experiences that Southern California’s luxury lovers seek.

Pack your favorite cozy sweater, grab a basket, and head out for a sophisticated fall outing!

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Fall Luxury Landscaping Trends | Home Tips

As fall rolls into Southern California, luxury homeowners have a unique opportunity through landscaping to enhance their outdoor spaces with seasonal beauty. While the region may not experience the vivid autumn transformations seen in other parts of the country, Southern California offers its own distinctive fall foliage options that can bring warmth, texture, and elegance to luxury landscapes. With the right plant selections and design strategies, your garden can embody the spirit of the season while thriving in the local climate.

Here are some key insights and recommendations for creating a stunning fall garden with luxury foliage that suits Southern California’s Mediterranean-like conditions.

1. Embrace Drought-Tolerant, Fall-Friendly Plants

Southern California’s dry fall season makes it essential to choose plants that can handle limited water while still offering rich colors and textures. Many drought-tolerant species, such as California fuchsia (Epilobium canum), come into bloom during fall, providing a pop of vibrant orange-red flowers that contrast beautifully with neutral landscaping elements.

Other great options include succulents, particularly those that shift color during the fall months. For instance, sedum varieties, such as Autumn Joy, develop warm copper hues as the weather cools, adding a touch of seasonal charm to garden beds or container arrangements.

2. Opt for Native Grasses for Texture and Movement

Native grasses are a luxurious yet low-maintenance way to introduce texture and a sense of movement to your fall landscaping. Deer grass (Muhlenbergia rigens), for example, offers elegant, feathery plumes that turn a soft golden shade in fall, blending effortlessly into high-end landscape designs.

Ornamental grasses like purple fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’) also work well, adding a bold, modern aesthetic with their dark reddish-purple foliage that lasts through the season. These grasses are ideal for creating a dynamic landscape that sways gracefully in the autumn breeze, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere of your outdoor space.

3. Incorporate Fall-Blooming Perennials

For luxury homeowners who want a garden that comes alive in the fall, selecting perennials that bloom during this season is key. Mexican sage (Salvia leucantha) is a fantastic choice, with its vibrant purple flowers blooming profusely through late fall. Not only does this plant attract beneficial pollinators like hummingbirds, but it also creates a stunning visual contrast when paired with more neutral or earth-toned elements in your landscaping.

Japanese anemone is another elegant addition, offering soft white or pale pink flowers that bring a refined, romantic feel to any luxury garden.

4. Choose Trees and Shrubs for Seasonal Color

While Southern California doesn’t experience dramatic tree color changes, certain trees and shrubs offer beautiful fall foliage. The Chinese pistache (Pistacia chinensis) is one of the few trees that provide a true autumnal palette of red, orange, and yellow leaves, making it a perfect centerpiece for a fall-themed garden.

Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia), known for its long-lasting summer blooms, also displays striking foliage in shades of red and orange as fall progresses. This tree’s smooth, sculptural bark adds year-round visual interest, enhancing the overall luxury feel of your landscape.

5. Maximize the Use of Planters and Containers

For homeowners seeking flexibility in their fall garden, luxury planters and containers offer an elegant solution. Consider filling them with a mix of ornamental kale, pansies, and chrysanthemums, which thrive in the cooler temperatures of Southern California’s fall.

By strategically placing these containers around patios, entryways, and outdoor living areas, you can easily refresh your garden’s look and feel while incorporating a rich, seasonal color palette.

Conclusion

Creating a luxury garden that reflects the beauty of fall in Southern California is all about selecting the right plants and design elements. By focusing on drought-tolerant species, native grasses, fall-blooming perennials, and trees that offer seasonal color, homeowners can enjoy a sophisticated and elegant outdoor space that thrives in the local climate. With careful planning, your garden can be a true celebration of the season, adding beauty and value to your home.

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Economic Update | Week Ending October 5, 2024

U.S. Hiring Surges – Employers added a quarter of a million jobs in September – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 254,000 new jobs were added in September, which exceeded the revised 159,000 new jobs that were added in August. It also blew away economists who were surveyed and forecasted 150,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate ticked down to 4.1% in September from 4.2% in August. Average hourly wages increased 4% year-over-year in September, up from a 3.8% annual increase in August. More people working, lower unemployment, and higher wages are inflationary. Bond yields and mortgage rates rose after the jobs report was released.

Stock markets – Stock markets were on track for their first weekly loss in five weeks, but surged again on Friday after the September jobs report was released to end the week higher. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,352.75, up 0.1% from 42,313.00 last week. It is up 12.4% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,751.07, up 0.2% from 5,738.18 last week. The S&P is up 20.6% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 18,137.85, up 0.1% from 18,119.59 last week. It is up 20.8% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields jumped on Friday after the September jobs report was released – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.98%, up from 3.75% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.26%, up from 4.10% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

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 October 3, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.12%, up from 6.08% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.25%, up from 5.16% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

Have a great weekend!
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From New Fire HD Tablets to Spotify updates and More | Tech News

As the week comes to a close, we are rounding out the latest headlines in the world of tech. From New Fire HD Tablets to Spotify updates and more, we have you covered. Check out what’s happening in this week’s blog!

Amazon Unveils New Fire HD 8 with AI Tools and Improved Specs

Amazon has unveiled its new Fire HD 8 tablet, featuring generative AI-powered tools like Writing Assist, webpage summaries, and wallpaper creation from prompts. These tools will also be available on other Fire tablets, including the Fire HD 10 and Fire Max 11. The new Fire HD 8 offers improved specs, such as 3GB of RAM, a 5MP rear camera, and up to 13 hours of battery life, with storage options of 32GB or 64GB, expandable via microSD. Priced at $99.99, the new Fire HD is already on sale for $54.99 ahead of Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days. Rumors suggest upgraded Kindle e-readers may be coming soon.

Sony Updates WF-1000XM5 and WH-1000XM5 with New Features and Find My Device Support

Sony has released firmware updates for its WF-1000XM5 earbuds and WH-1000XM5 headphones, adding compatibility with Google’s Find My Device network, making them easier to locate if lost. The updates also introduce Auto Switch, a feature from Sony’s new LinkBuds Speaker, allowing seamless playback transition between wireless devices. Users must install Sony’s new Sound Connect app for the updates, which also improve security and streamline Google Fast Pair through LE Audio priority connection for faster pairing with Android devices.

Aqara Launches U300 Smart Lever Lock with Matter and Apple Home Key Support

Aqara has introduced its first smart lever lock, the U300, available on Amazon for $229.99. The U300 supports Matter-over-Thread and Apple Home Key, allowing users to unlock doors via apps like Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home, as well as using a fingerprint reader, keypad, or physical keys. With weatherproofing, an IPX4 rating, and up to 10 months of battery life, it’s ideal for both interior and exterior doors. The U300 also features a USB-C emergency port and is available in North America, with wider availability expected soon.

Samsung to Introduce Tap-to-Unlock Feature for Smart Locks in 2025

Samsung has announced that, starting in 2025, Galaxy device users will be able to tap their phone or smartwatch to unlock smart door locks, similar to Apple’s Home Key feature. By adopting the new Aliro smart lock standard for its Samsung Wallet’s Digital Home Key, Samsung will enable tap-to-unlock and hands-free unlocking for Aliro-compatible locks, utilizing NFC and UWB technology. This feature will allow users to unlock doors without needing to open an app or unlock their phone. The first Aliro-compatible smart locks are expected to hit the market next year.

Spotify Introduces Offline Backup Playlist for Premium Users

Spotify has launched a new feature called Offline Backup. The feature automatically generates a playlist of recently streamed songs to keep your music playing when offline. The playlist evolves based on your listening habits. It appears in the app’s home feed whenever an internet connection is lost, provided offline listening is enabled in settings. Available only to premium subscribers, the playlist can be filtered by artist, mood, and genre, and can be permanently added to your library if desired. This feature builds on similar offerings from other streaming services like YouTube Music and Netflix.

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Weekend Events | October 4 – October 6

Now that October is in full swing, it’s time to get into all the local fun happenings this fall. From festivals to museum exhibits and more, there are plenty of things you can do around town. Check out our weekly round-up!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 4 – October 6

Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema

When: October 6 – July 13, 2024

Where: Academy Museum | Museum Row

What: “Color in Motion” showcases nearly 150 objects, including technology, costumes, props, and film posters, spanning from the 1890s to the present. Divided into six thematic sections, the exhibition explores the relationship between color, music, and movement, as seen in early dance performances and animated shorts. It delves into the evolution of color technologies, from Technicolor and Disney’s women-led Ink & Paint Department to modern digital techniques. The exhibition also highlights monochrome silent films, the narrative significance of color, and experimental art. The final gallery, the Color Arcade, is an interactive, neon-lit space featuring a corridor inspired by the stargate sequence from 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Los Angeles Comic Con

When: October 4 – October 6

Where: South Park

What: While pop culture conventions are plentiful, few local events can match the scale of the annual Los Angeles Comic Con. This massive three-day expo draws thousands of comic fans to Downtown L.A. for a weekend filled with excitement. Attendees can look forward to comic book panels, anime screenings, and celebrity appearances from stars like Ewan McGregor, Hayden Christensen, Rosario Dawson, Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Anjelica Huston, Christina Ricci, Giancarlo Esposito, Ming-Na Wen, Lea Thompson, and more. Don’t forget to suit up for the geek couture fashion show and cosplay contest!

Rare Books L.A.

When: October 5 – October 6

Where: DTLA

What: Explore centuries of rare books, prints, photographs, and unique ephemera at this book fair, featuring a curated selection of hard-to-find treasures from dozens of expert dealers.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | October 4 – October 6

L.A. Loves Alex’s Lemonade

When: October 5

Where: Westwood

What: One of the city’s most anticipated and mouthwatering fundraising events returns this year, offering bites from some of L.A.’s top restaurants. As you sample dishes from over 60 award-winning chefs, along with selections from renowned wineries, breweries, and bar directors, you’ll also be supporting a great cause—Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, which is dedicated to fighting childhood cancer. For the full lineup of participating chefs, restaurants, bars, wineries, and breweries, click here (just try not to drool—we dare you).

Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic

When: October 5

Where: Pacific Palisades

What: Don your wide-brimmed hats and finest Sunday attire for this annual polo match. Enjoy bubbly at this star-studded event, whether from the casual picnic lawn or the exclusive rosé garden. Be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds for the shuttles, which run from nearby school parking lots to Will Rogers State Historic Park, and to grab a drink at the Champagne bars or a bite from the food trucks, which open at 11am. After indulging, make your way to the field to cheer on the teams in the 2pm match.

Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana

When: October 4

Where: Culver City

What: Savor crispy tacos while supporting the arts at the Westside’s iconic Tito’s Tacos, as it partners with Tito’s Handmade Vodka to raise funds for the Culver City Arts Foundation. The seventh annual Tito’s Fiesta Mexicana will serve up the restaurant’s beloved tacos, burritos, and flan, along with Tito’s Vodka cocktails. Enjoy five hours of live music, headlined by the Grammy-nominated all-female mariachi band, Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | October 4 – October 6

House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée

When: October 4 – November 2

Where: Glendale

What: Step into a Glendale theater (324 N Orange St, Glendale) for a supernatural soirée filled with magic, hauntings, and mystery that will send shivers down your spine. House of Spirits offers a two-hour immersive experience where you can explore eerie performances and macabre pop-ups, all while sipping on themed drinks. Each ticket includes four mini cocktails to accompany your chilling adventure.

One Day at a Time Table Read Fundraiser

When: October 5

Where: North Hollywood

What: The Alvarez family is returning! The cast and executive producers of *One Day at a Time* will reunite for a special charity table read on Saturday, Oct. 5, at 2:00pm at the Saban Media Center in North Hollywood. Fans can look forward to the cast reading unproduced scripts from season four. The event is being produced by former *One Day at a Time* producer Sandi Hochman, along with executive producers Gloria Calderón Kellett, Mike Royce, and Brent Miller.

October LAEC Equidome Polo Challenge

When: October 4

Where: Los Angeles Equestrian Center | 480 Riverside Drive Burbank

What: The October LAEC Equidome Polo Challenge welcomes guests to an evening of fast-paced polo action at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center. Taking place on Friday, October 4, 2024, the event opens its doors at 6:00 PM, with the polo match beginning at 7:00 PM. Spectators will have the chance to witness skilled riders and their majestic horses compete in an exhilarating game of polo. Along with the matches, attendees can enjoy a variety of additional activities, making it a unique opportunity to experience the power, elegance, and athleticism of the sport up close.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | October 4 – October 6 

Ventura Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft Show

When: October 4, 10am – 5pm

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds

What: The 52nd Annual Harvest Festival® Original Art & Craft Show is set to take place from October 4-6, 2024, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. This cherished, family-owned tradition returns, bringing together some of the nation’s finest artists and crafters, all excited to present their latest creations. Attendees can look forward to a truly unique shopping experience, featuring one-of-a-kind handmade treasures.

Relay for Life of Conejo Valley

When: October 5, 7:30am – 8:00pm

Where: 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks

What: The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Conejo Valley is a transformative event that unites the community in celebrating cancer survivors, honoring the memories of those lost, and taking action in the fight against cancer. The event aims to raise vital funds and awareness for cancer treatment and research. Likewise, this empowers participants to make a meaningful impact in the battle against the disease.

10th Annual Camarillo Old Town Wine Walk

When: October 5, 1pm – 4pm

Where: Old Town, Camarillo

What: Join the 10th Annual Camarillo Old Town Wine Walk on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 1-4pm, and explore over 20 local businesses along Ventura Blvd, featuring live music and tastings from top regional wineries and craft breweries. Tickets are $55 in advance ($65 at the event, if available) or $75 for the VIP experience. Attendees must be 21+ with valid ID. Proceeds benefit the Camarillo Old Town Association, supporting community events and local retailers. Sign up at www.camarillooldtown.org/10th-annual-wine-walk.

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The Best Mooncakes in SoCal | L.A. Eats

Mooncakes are often imprinted with intricate designs and Chinese characters, symbolizing reunion and prosperity. Traditionally, these pastries are filled with lotus seed paste, red bean paste, and salted duck egg yolks, offering a rich, dense texture. However, mooncakes come in a variety of styles, including Cantonese classics, Taiwanese versions filled with taro or pineapple, and Vietnamese bánh trung thu made with sweetened mung bean, coconut, or even durian. Southern California’s bakeries showcase a wide array of mooncakes. For those seeking a modern twist, you’ll find fillings like chocolate, ice cream, or snow skin-wrapped mooncakes, which appeal to younger generations and adventurous palates. Here are the best spots to find mooncakes in Los Angeles.

Aliya Lavaland

Location: 141 N. Atlantic Boulevard, Monterey Park, CA 91754

Aliya Lavaland brings a Thai-Chinese fusion twist to the classic mooncake. Known for their signature lava mooncakes, these pastries feature mung beans and a salted egg yolk center. Another standout is the taro lava mooncake made with coconut milk and taro. If you prefer a non-lava version, they offer flaky-crusted mini mooncakes, and during the Mid-Autumn Festival, they roll out tangerine-shaped mooncakes symbolizing good luck.

Anita Bakery

Location: 66 E. Montecito Avenue, Sierra Madre, CA 91024

Anita Bakery caters to the health-conscious with two styles of mooncakes: custard and lava custard, both made with salted egg yolks. These Cantonese-style mooncakes are perfect for those seeking a balanced sweet and salty flavor. Anita Chow’s mooncakes are made to order, ensuring fresh, delectable treats for the holiday.

The Buttery

Location: 9430 Warner Avenue, Suite D, Fountain Valley, CA 92708

Vietnamese mooncakes at The Buttery in Fountain Valley stand out for their complexity. The filling is a unique blend of 20 ingredients, including lime leaves, smoked meats, lotus seeds, and a syrup aged for six months. With flavor options like bird’s nest, abalone, and roasted chicken mixed nuts, these savory mooncakes are sure to surprise and delight.

Dōmi

Location: 672 S. Santa Fe Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90020

Dōmi brings a contemporary take on the traditional dessert with their shortbread crust variations, offering flavors like black sesame, red bean, and jujube. Their moon cookies, a twist on traditional mooncakes with no filling, provide an equally festive and delicious option. Available for pickup in the Arts District or at local farmers markets, Dōmi’s treats are perfect for a modern celebration.

Domie’s Bakery

Location: 7609 Garvey Avenue, Rosemead, CA 91770

For those looking for variety, Domie’s Bakery is a mooncake haven, offering over 45 types of mooncakes during the Mid-Autumn Festival. With fillings ranging from traditional white lotus seeds and mixed nuts to taro paste and orange peel with red bean, Domie’s delivers an old-school Cantonese experience.

Kee Wah Bakery

mooncakes

Locations: Various locations throughout San Gabriel Valley

Kee Wah Bakery brings Hong Kong’s mooncake traditions to SoCal, offering classic fillings like mung bean and white lotus paste alongside contemporary flavors like green tea, chocolate, and caramel sea salt coffee custard. Their beautifully designed packaging, featuring pandas or emperors, makes Kee Wah mooncakes an ideal gift.

Kim Hung Bakery

mooncakes

Location: 959 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012

A Chinatown staple, Kim Hung Bakery offers a wide range of mooncake styles, including Cantonese, Vietnamese, and the flaky-crusted Chiu Chow variety. Fillings range from lotus and winter melon to durian and mung bean, making this spot a go-to for traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike.

Lady M

mooncakes

Locations: Arcadia, Los Angeles, and Irvine

For a luxurious take on mooncakes, look no further than Lady M. Their limited-edition mooncakes are inspired by the bakery’s famous mille crepe cakes, featuring flavors like Earl Grey, passionfruit, and matcha-chocolate custard. The pastries come in beautifully designed gift sets complete with a lantern and Jade Rabbit projection.

Phoenix Bakery

Location: 969 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Known for its legendary strawberry cakes, Phoenix Bakery also excels in Cantonese-style mooncakes. Whether you prefer red bean, lotus paste, or egg yolks, this 86-year-old bakery has something for everyone. They even offer mini mooncakes for those who want a smaller, more portable treat.

Royal Bakery

mooncakes

Location: 8450 Valley Boulevard, Rosemead, CA 91770

Royal Bakery specializes in Vietnamese-style mooncakes, offering both baked and snow-skin varieties. These hearty treats feature fillings like mashed mung bean, taro, and mixed nuts, and are best enjoyed with a cup of hot tea.

Sunmerry

mooncakes

Locations: Various locations throughout Los Angeles

Taiwanese bakery Sunmerry presents a modern twist with its limited-edition mooncakes. Their flavor lineup includes chocolate, ube milk, milk tea, and mocha coffee from their lava series, as well as Cantonese options with red bean and salted egg yolk. Perfectly packaged, Sunmerry makes for a delightful gift or treat.

Sunny Dumplings

mooncakes

Locations: Rowland Heights, Walnut, and Lake Forest

Sunny Dumplings specializes in Shanghainese mooncakes, known for their golden, flaky crusts. Filled with savory pork, these mooncakes offer a flavorful alternative to the sweeter varieties commonly found. Perfect for those who enjoy a savory pastry, they are available at multiple locations across Southern California.

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Mortgage Rate Update | October 3, 2024

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 October 3, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.12%, up from 6.08% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.25%, up from 5.16% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

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Celebrating Oktoberfest | Out & About

There are more things to celebrate during the month of October than just Halloween. The tenth month of the year is also a time to celebrate Oktoberfest. Check out all the ways to celebrate in the Los Angeles area below!

Oktoberfest at Fairplex

When: October 4 – October 26
Every Friday and Saturday in October, the Fairplex transforms into a lively German celebration for Oktoberfest, complete with Bavarian music, beer, and the famous chicken dance. Feast on bratwurst, knockwurst, and sweet corn while enjoying authentic German beers at this 21+ event. The party atmosphere is enhanced by DJs, oompah bands, and the Das Kär Show, showcasing over 40 Volkswagen Beetles and other German-made cars. For those looking to double their fun, a “Boos & Brews” combo ticket is available for $30, offering entry to both Oktoberfest and Lights Out, the Fairplex’s other October attraction.

Oktoberfest at Wurstküche Venice

When: Until October 26
Starting on September 28, Wurstküche Venice kicks off three weekends of Bavarian festivities, including live music, lederhosen, and mouth-watering bites. Savor their unique rattlesnake and rabbit sausage topped with onions and peppers, and pair it with a variety of German and Belgian beers on draft. Yodeling and traditional German tunes create a fun, lively atmosphere. Each $50 ticket includes a signature Wurstküche beer mug and your first fill-up, with Saturday and Sunday start times offering multiple chances to join the celebration.

Old World Oktoberfest

When: Until November 3
Touted as “Orange County’s biggest party since 1977,” Old World Oktoberfest offers a Bavarian-inspired experience with ocean views. From September 8 through November 3, the festivities include “Shot Girls,” dancers, and live oompah bands every Wednesday to Sunday. The famous wiener dog races make a comeback at the kickoff event, with additional races scheduled throughout the season. While Friday and Saturday nights are reserved for the 21+ crowd (with a cover charge), families can join the fun on Saturday afternoons and select evenings, with free entry on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest

When: Until November 2
Escape to the mountains for Big Bear Lake’s annual Oktoberfest, running every weekend from September to early November. Enjoy authentic German beer, hearty knockwursts, and festive attire as the party unfolds. The event features multiple live bands, including four flown in from Germany, and plenty of entertainment. Don’t miss the stein-carrying contest, where one lucky participant will be crowned Oktoberfest Queen.

San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest

When: October 4
Swap pretzels for dumplings at San Gabriel’s Dumpling & Beer Fest, held at the Mission Playhouse on October 4. Your entry includes a beer tasting wristband, giving you unlimited access to craft brews from 6 to 10 p.m. Satisfy your cravings with dumplings from various food trucks, while live DJs keep the party going all night. Families can enjoy arts and crafts stations for kids, making this a fun event for all ages.

Santa Anita Park’s Oktoberfest

When: October 12-20, 2024
Santa Anita Park combines horse racing with Oktoberfest fun over two weekends in October. Get in on the action with stein-holding contests, costume competitions, and plenty of beer and pretzels. Each $38 general admission ticket includes a mini stein and eight beer tastings, along with a $5 betting voucher, tip sheet, and access to grandstand seating. Opt for the $75 VIP group ticket for reserved picnic table seating and a $20 food voucher.

Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest

When: September 14 – October 27
Nestled in the “Alps of Southern California,” Lake Arrowhead’s Oktoberfest runs every weekend through October 27. The event features live German-American oompah bands, stein-holding contests, children’s games, and a daily sausage toss competition. Although there’s no entry fee, attendees can book picnic or pub tables for up-close views of the stage, with prices starting at $25 for Sunday reservations.

CraftoberFest at the Rose Bowl

When: October 5
On October 5, the Rose Bowl hosts CraftoberFest, an Oktoberfest-inspired event showcasing over 50 local craft breweries. This all-ages celebration offers unlimited craft beer and kombucha tastings with the purchase of a ticket, along with traditional Bavarian food like pretzels and bratwurst. Enjoy live music from Festmeister Hans and Die Sauerkrauts as you dance the day away. Upgrade to VIP for early entry and exclusive seating.

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