Economic Update | Week Ending November 23, 2024

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 44,296.51, up 2% from 43,444.99 last week. It is up 17.5% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,969.34, up 1.7% from 5,870.62 last week. The S&P is up 25.2% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,003.65, up 1.7% from 18,680.12 last week. It is up 26.6% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.41%, almost unchanged from 4.43% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.60%, unchanged from 4.60% 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 November 21st, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.84%, up from 6.78% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.02%, up from 5.99% last week.

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

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Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. These are October’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales October 2024 – The National Association of Realtorsreported that existing-home sales totaled 3.96 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in October, up 2.9% from an annualized rate of 3.85 million units last October. That marked the first year-over-year increase in sales in 3 years. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in October was $407,200, up 4% from $391,600 one year ago. There was a 4.2-month supply of homes for sale in October, up from a 3.6-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 27% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 17% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short salesaccounted for 2% of all sales.

October California existing-home sales report – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 264,870 on an annualized rate in October, up 4.7% from 253,010 homes on an annualized rate in September, and up 5.8% from a revised 241,910 homes sold on an annualized basis last October. The statewide median price paid for a home in October was $888,740, up 2.4% from $868,150 in September, and up 5.8% from $839.990 one year ago. There was a 3.1- month supply of homes for sale in October, down from a 3.6-month supply of homes for sale in September, but up from a 2.7-month supply in October 2023.

The graph below lists home sales data by county in Southern California.

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Have a great weekend!

Weekend Events | November 22 – November 24

November is breezing on by and the weekend is almost underway! From Turkey trots to holiday markets and more we have you covered on local fun. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from November 22 through November 24.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | November 22 – November 24 

L.A. Zoo Lights

When: Until January 5 

Where: L.A. Zoo | Griffith Park 

What: The L.A. Zoo will remain open after dark most nights through January, offering a magical take on its holiday light tradition. This year’s “Animals Aglow” edition features enchanting oversized animal-shaped lanterns, creating a vibrant and charming trail that celebrates the zoo’s diverse wildlife.

Zero Lounge Grand Opening Party

When: November 22

Where: Hollywood

What: L.A. is home to themed bars celebrating the 1970s and 1980s, and now Hollywood is dialing up the nostalgia with a nightlife spot dedicated to…the 2000s (feeling old yet?). Dust off your flip phone and step into the Y2K-inspired vibes at Zero Lounge, opening this Friday. Sip on cocktails like the Friends Frappe or Mean Girl, or opt for a nonalcoholic treat like Bikini Bottoms Up. Then, hit the dance floor and groove to iconic hits from the ’90s and early 2000s.

Urban Bush Women

When: November 22 – November 24 

Where: DTLA 

What: Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at the Music Center is making history as it launches its 2024–2025 season. Celebrating their 40th anniversary, the groundbreaking Brooklyn-based dance company Urban Bush Women—renowned for amplifying the voices and stories of Black women—will become the first professional dance theatre company to perform at the Mark Taper Forum. The troupe will debut the West Coast premiere of SCAT!… The Complex Lives of Al & Dot, Dot & Al Zollar, a jazz-club love story set against the backdrop of the Great Migration.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | November 22 – November 24 

Winter Fest OC

When: November 22 – January 5 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Celebrate a decade of holiday magic at this Christmas-themed event in Costa Mesa, transforming Orange County into a dazzling winter wonderland. Stroll through the enchanting North Pole walk-through, enjoy snow play and ice tubing, and capture festive memories with picture-perfect photo ops. This year, a brand-new holiday light show featuring over 2 million twinkling lights will take center stage. For an elevated experience, indulge in the expanded carnival, glide across the ice skating rink, or relax in VIP Arctic cabanas. Try your hand at “Polar Putt Putt” golf or warm up in cozy fireside igloos. Seasonal treats and hot cocoa will ensure you stay cozy while soaking in the holiday cheer.

Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion

When: Until August 2025

Where: The Skirball Museum | Westside

What: Explore over 50 garments from Diane von Furstenberg, including her iconic wrap dress, in this career-spanning exhibition at the Skirball. The show also highlights her philanthropic work and the impact of her upbringing as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, alongside artwork and fabric swatches.

Ice at Santa Monica

When: Until January 20 

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: Just a few blocks from the beach, Ice in downtown Santa Monica brings a touch of winter to this coastal city. The 8,000-square-foot outdoor rink is open daily from November to mid-January at Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue, a short walk from the E Line. Tickets are $24 for an hour, including skate rentals, and options for private parties and cabanas are available for a more exclusive experience. Enjoy treats for sale and special themed nights throughout the season.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | November 22 – November 24 

TOLUCA LAKE TURKEY TROT REGISTRATION & GOLF CART

When: November 24 

Where: 4444 Riverside Drive | Burbank 

What: Celebrate the season at the 12th Annual Toluca Lake Turkey Trot & Fall Festival, a fun-filled community event with activities for all ages—rain or shine! Whether you’re a competitive runner or just looking to enjoy the crisp fall air, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to make memories, stay active, and soak in the festive cheer. Register now and be part of the tradition!

Taylor Swift-themed Paint + Sip

When: November 22 

Where: El Tracedero Kitchen | 24274 Main Street Santa Clarita

What: Join us for a Taylor Swift themed Paint & Sip, where creativity and music collide. Sip on your favorite drink as you create your own masterpiece, inspired by Taylor’s iconic lyrics and moods. With a playlist spanning from Fearless to Midnights, it’s the ultimate night of art, inspiration, and fun for Swifties!

Blended Worlds: Experiments In Interplanetary Imagination

When: Until January 4, 2025

Where: Glendale

What: In this collaborative exhibition in Glendale, artists, and JPL scientists unite as 11 creatives across various mediums showcase their interpretations of how nature and the night sky spark wonder within us.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | November 22 – November 24  

Sip ‘n Shop at the Ventura County Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula

When: November 22, 3pm – 6pm

Where: 926 Railroad Ave, Santa Paula

What: Get into the holiday spirit with festive shopping and a complimentary beverage! From 4 PM to 6 PM, enjoy a special treat as Ventura County Ballet presents Storytime and Excerpts—an interactive preview of The Nutcracker featuring enchanting performances for all ages.

Mizel Estate Wines – Wine Tasting in the Vineyard

When: November 23, 1:00pm – 2:30pm

Where: 1050 W Potrero Rd, Thousand Oaks

What: Join Mizel Estate Wines for an exclusive afternoon of wine tasting in our breathtaking private vineyard. Begin your journey with a guided tour of the vines that produce Mizel’s luxurious wines, then relax in our stunning outdoor lounge. Savor a flight of velvety red wines, perfectly balanced with rich fruit and spice, while mingling with fellow wine enthusiasts.

Festival of the Trees, Ventura County in Simi Valley

When: November 23, 10am – 3pm

Where: 1475 Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley

What: The Festival of the Trees in Ventura County is a heartwarming event supporting local cancer patients and their families. Explore beautifully decorated trees and wreaths available for bidding, shop handmade treasures in the Elf Emporium, and enjoy sweet treats at Frosty’s Sweet Shoppe. Held at the Simi Valley Town Center on November 21 (4–8 PM) and November 23 (10 AM–3 PM), tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for kids (3–12), $4 for seniors, and free for children under 3.

From Sonos OS to Uber XXL and More! | Tech News

Don’t miss out on what’s happening in the world of tech and media. From Sonos OS to Uber XXL and more, we have you covered! Check out this week’s top tech headlines!!

Instagram to Roll Out Global Recommendations Reset Feature

Instagram is introducing a new feature that allows users to completely reset the content recommended to them in Feeds, Explore, and Reels. The feature, set to roll out globally soon, enables users to clear the platform’s algorithmic content with just a few taps. Available to all users, including teens, the update aims to provide a safe, positive, and age-appropriate experience. According to Meta, the reset will help users, especially teens, align their Instagram feed with evolving passions and interests. After a reset, recommendations will gradually personalize again based on user interactions. Additionally, users can review and manage their followed accounts during the reset process, further refining future suggestions.

Tesla to Launch High-Power V4 Supercharger Stations in 2024

Tesla is set to debut fully realized V4 Supercharger stations next year, offering up to 500kW charging for EVs and 1.2MW for its commercial Semi trucks. Permitting for sites with the upgraded V4 cabinets is underway, with plans to connect charging stalls to advanced electronics for faster charging, particularly benefiting the Cybertruck and EVs from other manufacturers. While initial V4 stalls rolled out last year in Europe and limited U.S. locations used V3 infrastructure capped at 250kW, the upcoming stations will include significant enhancements. These include longer cords to accommodate diverse EV designs without blocking spots, CCS connectors, physical payment terminals, and faster deployment capabilities. Supporting up to eight stalls each, the V4 cabinets promise faster charging for higher voltage EVs from brands like Porsche, Hyundai, and Kia, addressing limitations seen with V3 Superchargers.

Sonos Rumored to Enter Streaming Box Market with Ad-Focused TV OS

Sonos is rumored to enter the streaming box market with a device priced between $150 and $200, running on Ventura, a TV operating system from ad company The Trade Desk. The platform promises features like cross-platform content discovery, streamlined subscription management, and fewer, more relevant ads, along with advanced audience targeting for advertisers. While Ventura aims to address inefficiencies in current TV platforms, critics question its appeal in a crowded market dominated by established players. The device, expected in 2025, comes as Sonos struggles to regain momentum following controversies and underwhelming sales of its Ace headphones. Success will depend on whether Sonos can offer a standout feature to justify its move into this saturated space.

Uber Introduces UberXXL and Enhances Airport Travel Options

Uber has launched UberXXL, a new airport-focused ride option designed for large families and big luggage. Uber XXL will available at over 60 airports globally with more to come. Positioned between UberXL and Uber Black in pricing, UberXXL guarantees spacious rides. Likewise, Uber XXL makes airport pickups more convenient. The company has also expanded features like Uber Reserve’s Flight Capture, which syncs flight details to recommend leave times and adjust for delays. In Addition, UberX Share, now available at select airports, offers discounted rates for shared rides. A new iPhone widget will also lets users quickly request rides to frequently visited locations like home or work. These updates aim to streamline airport travel and provide more tailored ride options.

Niantic Develops AI Model from Player-Generated Geospatial Data

Niantic has unveiled a new “Large Geospatial Model” (LGM). The LGM was built using millions of location scans from players of Pokémon Go and other Niantic apps. This AI-powered model, based on Niantic’s Visual Positioning System (VPS), uses 3D maps created from pedestrian-sourced data. The data enables computers and robots to better understand and interact with the world. The VPS determines a phone’s position and orientation using images of real-world locations inaccessible to cars. This high-fidelity mapping includes 3D geometry and semantic details, such as distinguishing ground, trees, and sky. This development showcases cutting-edge AI potential. In addition, it highlights the unexpected evolution of player data collected since Pokémon Go’s launch in 2016.

Bose Acquires McIntosh to Expand Premium Audio Offerings

Bose has acquired high-end audio brand McIntosh and its subsidiary Sonus faber. The move by Bose is aimed at broadening its product lineup and advancing its automotive audio technology. The partnership will combine Bose’s decades of experience in in-car audio with McIntosh’s legacy of premium performance. Likewise, this will aid in creating cutting-edge automotive sound systems. Both brands will continue producing their existing products. Of course, Bose will focus on headphones, speakers, and soundbars, while McIntosh and Sonus faber develop amplifiers, loudspeakers, and turntables. The acquisition reflects ongoing consolidation in the audio industry. Bose CEO Lila Snyder emphasized the goal of honoring McIntosh’s heritage while driving innovation.

Mortgage Rate Update | November 21, 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 November 21st, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.84%, up from 6.78% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.02%, up from 5.99% 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.

The Best Local Pie Shops | LA Eats

Planning to host Thanksgiving? Remember, no Thanksgiving feast is truly complete without a delicious pie! To help you find the perfect dessert, we’ve compiled a list of the finest pie shops in and around Los Angeles, including the San Fernando Valley and Conejo Valley. Keep reading to discover the top spots for picking up a Thanksgiving pie in these areas.

Los Angeles Area

Knowrealitypie

Location: Eagle Rock

This award-winning pie shop is renowned for its handcrafted pies, a testament to their quality and craftsmanship. They also feature delightful mini pies, perfect for one or two people. With an array of unique and tantalizing flavors, this shop invites you to explore every taste profile they offer. Their selection includes innovative creations like sweet potato cornbread pie, espresso chocolate pecan pie, triple berry cabernet pie, among many other distinctive flavors.

Cake Monkey Bakery

Three pies are on display at Cake Monkey in Los Angeles.

Location: Mid-City and North Hollywood

Cake Monkey’s brilliant better-together pie, featuring layers of pumpkin and pecan, might just steal the show this holiday season. Also in the lineup: a rich butterscotch pudding pie with a graham cracker crust and a cider-roasted apple pie with a flaky double-cheddar crust. Place your orders online by noon on November 23 for pick-up at either the Mid-City or North Hollywood locations. Vegan and gluten-free options are available as well.

Westside and Beach Communities

Winston Pies

Location: Brentwood and Marina Del Rey

Winston Pies stands out as one of the top pie shops in the area, offering a delightful array of pies in various sizes. Whether you’re looking for a single serving or a pie large enough for twelve, they’ve got you covered. Among their popular selections are the Funfetti pie and the Caramel Twix pie. With their extensive range of flavors, you’re sure to find a pie that perfectly suits your taste at Winston Pies.

Sweet Laurel

Location: Pacific Palisades

Dessert enthusiasts will be delighted by Sweet Laurel, nestled in Pacific Palisades. This charming sweet shop caters to various dietary preferences with its exquisite selection of paleo, grain-free, dairy-free, and refined-sugar-free treats. For the month of November, they’re offering a special, limited edition twist on the classic apple pie, adding a unique touch to this traditional favorite.

San Fernando Valley Area

Creme Caramel LA

Situated in Sherman Oaks, this bakery is famous for its unique selection of upside-down pies. They offer a variety of these inverted delights, including flavors like strawberries n cream, cookies n cream, and pumpkin spice upside-down pies, among others. With a wide range to choose from, each pie offers a distinctive twist on traditional favorites.

Sweet Lady Jane Bakery

Using only the freshest ingredients, handpicked and prepared by their skilled team, this bakery specializes in pies that perfectly capture the essence of the Thanksgiving season. Their menu includes seasonal favorites like the pumpkin cheesecake pie and the classic pumpkin pie, each crafted to enhance your holiday celebration.

Conejo Valley Area

Suburban Pie & Treats

Renowned for their meticulously handcrafted crusts, this bakery offers an array of delectable pies, featuring flavors like blueberry, lime, and pear. They incorporate fresh fruit into each pie, enhancing the overall flavor and creating a truly scrumptious taste experience.

 

Staycation in Napa Valley | Out & About

Renowned for its rolling vineyards and world-class wines, Napa Valley is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. Beyond the vineyards, it offers exceptional dining experiences, rich cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures set against breathtaking scenery. Read on to uncover some of the best spots to explore during a staycation in Napa Valley.

Stay Awhile

Surrounded by nature and exuding a sense of tranquility, the award-winning Bardessono is ideal for romance-seeking couples and friends who are seeking an outstanding stay. In addition, pets are welcome too. From the sublime vistas and enchanting gardens to the luxurious rooms and the private ambiance, Bardessono is great for the soul. The spa and rooftop pool provides plenty of ways to unwind and the on-site Lucy Restaurant and Bar offers a delectable field-to-fork dining experience and an extensive wine list.

The peaceful Meadowood Napa Valley is a top place to immerse yourself in the Napa Valley way of life. Spread over 250 beautiful acres, the estate is nestled in a private valley and provides easy access to nature. Menus in the on-site restaurant make full use of local seasonal produce and the wine center offers insights into the area’s wine-making traditions and culture. Three swimming pools, a modern fitness center, and five tennis courts are great for those looking to keep active, while the spa offers blissfully restorative treatments that are perfectly aligned with nature.

The Estate Yountville boasts two high-class accommodations: Vintage House and Hotel Villagio. There’s also a luxurious five-bedroom villa, ideal for larger families or groups of friends. If you love contemporary chic, Hotel Villagio is sure to impress. The spacious rooms boast deep-soaking tubs, fireplaces, sunny terraces, and elegant lounges. Vintage House provides a quieter retreat with lashings of natural charm. In addition, all guests can enjoy the swimming pool, sociable lobby bar, and pretty garden bar, as well as holistic treatments in the attractive spa and culinary treats in several on-site eateries.

Dine and Sip

Located within Riverside Mall, Morimoto is a sleek and modern restaurant with plenty of Japanese atmospheres. The open kitchen lets you watch in awe as dishes are skillfully created and the dining room is full of plenty of interesting features to admire. In addition, seating is also available outdoors on the riverside terrace. Savor sushi from the wooden sushi bar and enjoy dishes like seafood tobanyaki, pork chop and apple sauce, braised black cod, and wagyu striploin. Why not step into the atmospheric Momosan Sake Bar afterward for a glass of sake?

La Toque offers Michelin-star dining and an award-winning wine list in an elegant environment. Chef Ken Frank’s menus change regularly to make full use of seasonal bounties and diners can choose from two options: the a la carte menu or the exciting six-course Chef’s Tasting Menu. Both options include delicious dishes that are artfully presented for a veritable treat for the senses. Likewise, the wine pairing suggestions are truly outstanding, offering an unforgettable dining experience.

Specializing in all things fizzy, Be Bubbly is a relative newcomer to the Napa Valley wine bar scene. Open since 2020, the wine list includes Champagne and all kinds of sparkling wine from across the globe. In addition, the lounge often features live music and you’ll sometimes find food pop-ups too.

The brainchild of Chef Thomas Keller, classy Regiis Ova offers the perfect combination of Champagne and caviar for a truly indulgent evening. The opulent surroundings enhance the luxurious vibe, with lavish lounges decked in verdant hues and a gorgeous garden. Sustainable teak, Italian leather, and Belgian linens further add to the rich appeal.

Shop and See

Located in St Helena, Woodhouse Chocolates is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth. The appealing store stocks the finest chocolates and sweet treats in Napa Valley. In addition, they offer ethically sourced products and have sustainable ingredients.

Soar through the skies and lap up the incredible views with a thrilling ride in a hot air balloon. Likewise, watching the sunrise over the valley is truly magical. 

Ca’Toga Galleria D’Arte provides a visual treat in Calistoga. Home to works by Italian-born Carlo Marchiori, the gallery includes striking paintings, sculptures, ceramics, furnishings, and more.

Our Favorite Festive Wreath Ideas | Home Tips

‘Tis the season for a festive wreath to add a touch of the holidays to your home! While it is technically still fall, it’s not too early to get festive! We’re sharing our favorite wreath ideas to give your abode a well-deserved holiday boost. Read on for the best festive wreath ideas for the month of December.

Glowing With Holiday Cheer

Using a wooden wreath frame, all you need to add some sparkle to your holiday decor is sequin flower applique. Use wire sandwiched in between the applique flowers to give your festive wreath dimension.

Candy Cane Lane Festive Wreath

If you happen to have overstocked candy canes, you can turn them into a crafty wreath. Just position your candy canes together to create a circle in a size of your choice, and use waxed twine to fasten them together. Lastly, you’ll need a red ribbon to hang your wreath up for all to see. 

Christmas Ornaments of Christmas Past 

This festive wreath is easier to create than it looks. All you need is ornaments you no longer need (preferably the round bauble kind) and tinsel. Wrap the tinsel around a wreath frame and then hook the ornaments into place. Attach a ribbon of your choice to the wreath to hang it in place.

Deck the Halls with Green

Rather than toss out any fallen branches, you can turn those last bits of green into a festive scene. Using sprigs from your trees or bushes to create an assortment of small and cheerful wreaths. Hang your wreaths with red ribbon for the perfect holiday touch.

The Gift of the Season

For a wreath that gives the gift of holiday joy, this gift box wreath is chic and festive. Wrap an assortment of small gift boxes with weatherproof paper and secure each one with a bow. Once your tiny gifts are wrapped, glue gun them to a wreath frame for the final stunning product.

Economic Update | Week Ending November 16, 2024

Inflation ticked up in October – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed that consumer process increased 2.6% year-over-year in October, up from a 2.4% year-over-year increase in September. Core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, increased 3.3% year-over-year, unchanged from its September annual increase. The Producer Price Index (PPI) also increased in October. It measures wholesale prices which increased 2.4% year-over-year in October, its highest level in 4 months, and up from a 1.9% year-over-year increase in September. The Core PPI level came in at a 3.5% year-over-year increase in October, up from a 3.3% increase in September. These increases were in line with analysts’ expectations as increased retail sales, consumer confidence, and other data pointed to the economy picking up. They forecasted inflation heating up a bit. In fact, Fed Chairman Powell spoke on Thursday. He also spoke about the signs of strength in the economy. While he said that the Fed still intends to continue moving down to more neutral rates, he stated “the economy is not sending any signals that we need to be in a hurry to lower rates.” We have seen long-term bond yields and mortgage rates increase sharply since the first Fed rate drop in September due to signs that the economy appears to be picking up steam.

The chart below shows the CPI rate since 2021. Even though it moved up last month, it’s still much lower than it has been over the past two years.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 43,444.99, down 1.2% from 43,988.89 last week. It is up 15.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,870.62, down 2.1% from 5,995.54 last week. The S&P is up 23.1% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 18,680.12, down 3.2% from 19,289.78 last week. It is up 24.4% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.43%, up from 4.30% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.60%, up from 4.47% 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 November 14th, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.78%, down from 6.79% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.99%, down from 6.00% 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!

Weekend Events | November 15 – November 17

We are halfway through November and right on time for your weekend round-up of local fun! Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from November 15 through November 17! We have all of the fall activities you won’t want to miss!!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | November 15 – November 17 

L.A. Zoo Lights

When: Until January 5 

Where: L.A. Zoo | Griffith Park 

What: The L.A. Zoo will remain open after dark most nights through January, offering a magical take on its holiday light tradition. This year’s “Animals Aglow” edition features enchanting oversized animal-shaped lanterns, creating a vibrant and charming trail that celebrates the zoo’s diverse wildlife.

Two Faced Ceramics classes at Hotel Figueroa

When: Until November 16

Where: Hotel Figueroa | DTLA

What: Two Faced Ceramics is bringing its home studio poolside to DTLA’s Hotel Figueroa for a series of beginner-friendly classes. For $75, each session includes all materials and equipment, plus mimosas and a hotel tote bag. Every class explores a unique theme, with this weekend’s session focusing on an election-inspired design.

Vulture Festival

When: November 16 – November 17 

Where: Hollywood

What: Catch exclusive Q&As, sneak peeks, and table reads at this star-studded pop culture festival presented by New York Magazine’s Vulture. This year, the event takes over Nya Studios in Hollywood, featuring an “Abbott Elementary” writers panel with Quinta Brunson, a special retrospective of The Skeleton Twins with Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, an acting class led by Henry Winkler, and a stand-up showcase hosted by Joel Kim Booster.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | November 15 – November 17

WestEdge Design Fair

When: November 14 – November 16 

Where: Santa Monica

What: The WestEdge Design Fair returns, bringing top modern furniture and home accessories to design lovers. This three-day event features over 150 brands showcasing lighting, kitchen, bath, outdoor furniture, and more. Shop unique designs, browse artisanal gifts, and join special events, panels, and demos on topics like holiday entertaining. Kick things off Thursday night with an opening party featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, early access, and support for the Hollywood Food Coalition.

Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion

When: Until August 2025

Where: The Skirball Museum | Westside

What: Explore over 50 garments from Diane von Furstenberg, including her iconic wrap dress, in this career-spanning exhibition at the Skirball. The show also highlights her philanthropic work and the impact of her upbringing as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, alongside artwork and fabric swatches.

Ice at Santa Monica

When: Until January 20 

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: Just a few blocks from the beach, Ice in downtown Santa Monica brings a touch of winter to this coastal city. The 8,000-square-foot outdoor rink is open daily from November to mid-January at Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue, a short walk from the E Line. Tickets are $24 for an hour, including skate rentals, and options for private parties and cabanas are available for a more exclusive experience. Enjoy treats for sale and special themed nights throughout the season.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | November 8 – November 10 

Googie World Expo

When: November 16 

Where: Valley Relics Museum | Van Nuys

What: Join the Googie World Expo at the Valley Relics Museum in Van Nuys for a two-day celebration of mid-century modern architecture and design. On Saturday, November 16, enjoy talks, book signings, and a 3-D photography exhibition, with proceeds supporting the museum. Highlights include insights on midcentury bowling alleys, iconic neon signage, and rare photos of L.A.’s architectural history.

 

Tequila Tasting & Celebration: Vintage Wine & Spirits’ 3rd Anniversary

When: November 16 

Where: Vintage Wine & Spirits, 16938 Saticoy St., Lake Balboa

What: Celebrate Vintage Wine & Spirits’ 3rd anniversary on November 16, 2024, from 4-7 PM at their Lake Balboa location. Enjoy premium tastings from top brands like Fortaleza and Lalo, exclusive discounts, delicious food pairings, and a chance to meet industry experts. Raise a glass to three years of excellence in wine and spirits!

Blended Worlds: Experiments In Interplanetary Imagination

When: Until January 4, 2025

Where: Glendale

What: In this collaborative exhibition in Glendale, artists, and JPL scientists unite as 11 creatives across various mediums showcase their interpretations of how nature and the night sky spark wonder within us.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | November 15 – November 17 

Nutcracker Storytime at the EP Foster Library

When: November 16, 11:00am – 12:30pm

Where: 651 E Main St, Ventura

What: Join EP Foster Library and Ventura County Ballet for a magical Nutcracker Storytime on Saturday, November 16, at 11:00 am in the Topping Room. Families can enjoy a reading of The Nutcracker, mini dance performances by ballet dancers, and a chance for kids to learn ballet moves. A Q&A with Kathie Noblin, Ventura County Ballet’s director, and the dancers will offer insight into the world of ballet. This free event is open to the public.

 

Tree Lighting Celebration at the Simi Valley Town Center

When: Sat, November 16, 4pm – 9pm

Where: Simi Valley Town Center, 1555 Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley

What: Join the Simi Valley Town Center for its 20th Annual Tree Lighting Celebration on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 4-9 PM! Enjoy festive dance performances, a live set by the Moorpark Jazz Band, Santa’s grand arrival, “snow” in the center court, and much more. Hosted by five-time Grammy nominee Bridget Brady.

 

Welcome Walk at Malibu Creek State Park

When: November 17, 10am – 1pm

Where: Malibu Creek State Park, 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas

What: Enjoy a relaxed 2.5-hour nature walk at Malibu Creek State Park with a docent guide on Saturday at 10 AM. Learn about local wildlife, native plants, and the park’s unique Hollywood history. Meet at the Main Trailhead Parking Lot; families welcome. Parking is $3 per hour or $12 max.