Economic Update | Week Ending September 28, 2024

Economic news for the week – The August Personal Consumption Expenditure Index (PCE), a key gauge the Fed uses to evaluate U.S. goods and services costs, was released. It showed that the 12-month inflation rate was 2.2%, down from 2.5% in July and its lowest reading since February 2021. The Bureau of Economic Analysis released its third revision of the second quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the broadest measure of the strength of the economy. It showed that the economy grew at a 3% annualized pace in the second quarter, a faster rate than Wall Street had expected. These reports were another indicator that the Fed may be correct in their expectations of a “soft landing,” where inflation comes under control and the economy remains strong. We are seeing investors feeling optimistic as well. They pushed stock markets higher again this week. Stock markets have closed higher in six of the last seven weeks. All indexes hit record highs this week with the Dow closing the week at an all-time high and the Nasdaq and S&P 500 closing just off their highs set earlier in the week. It appears that investors are very optimistic about the prospects of lower interest rates and the strength of the economy.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,313.00, up 0.6% from 42,063.36 last week. It is up 12.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,738.18, up 0.6% from 5,702.55 last week. The S&P is up 20.3% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 18,119.59, up 1% from 17,948.32 last week. It is up 20.7% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields are slightly up this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.75%, up slightly from 3.73% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.10%, up slightly from 4.07% 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 September 26, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.08%, almost unchanged from 6.09% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.16%, almost unchanged from 5.15% 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!

From Meta’s AR Glasses to a New Leica and More! | Tech News

Stay connected with this week‘s top headlines in the world of tech! From Meta’s AR Glasses to a New Leica and more, we have you covered. Check out the latest news below!

Leica Unveils Q3 43 with New 43mm Lens

Leica shakes up its Q series with the launch of the Q3 43, featuring a 43mm f/2 lens for tighter shots and portraits. This new Leica variant retains the same 60-megapixel sensor and features as the standard Q3 but offers a fresh aspherical APO-Summicron lens for $6,895. Though nearly identical in specs, the Leica Q3 43 distinguishes itself with a gray leatherette and digital cropping options up to 150mm. Despite the premium price, Leica disappoints by omitting the battery charger, making it an optional $200 accessory. Still, the Leica 43mm lens offers a fresh appeal for fans wanting a more versatile field of view.

Transparent Tech Makes a Stylish Comeback

Just like fashion trends, tech gadgets are making a style comeback. After the ’80s beige keyboards and ‘90s gray video game consoles, transparent gadgets from the early 2000s, like see-through iMacs and N64 controllers, are re-emerging as the next big trend. Today, we see clear smartphones like the Nothing Phone, transparent Beats Studio earbuds, and colorful translucent gaming consoles making waves. As transparent tech reclaims the spotlight, it’s a perfect time to revisit those classic see-through devices from the past.

Meta’s Orion AR Glasses: A Glimpse into the Future of Tech

Meta’s first augmented reality glasses, Orion, represent CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s vision for post-smartphone technology. While the glasses showcase cutting-edge features like a 43mm field of view, Micro LED projectors, and AI capabilities, the device is too costly and complex to mass-produce at $10,000 per unit. With silicon carbide lenses and a neural wristband for gesture control, Orion delivers an immersive AR experience, but it’s still far from ready for consumers, serving primarily as a prototype for future AR innovations.

California Enacts Phone-Free School Act to Limit Cellphone Use in Schools

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the Phone-Free School Act, requiring all schools statewide to limit cellphone use by July 2026. The law aims to reduce smartphone-related mental health issues in students, with exceptions for emergencies and certain permissions. Schools must create policies promoting responsible smartphone use while supporting student well-being. Despite opposition from the California School Boards Association, the law is part of a growing trend, with at least 15 states already implementing similar restrictions.

Raycast Expands to Windows and iOS, Aiming to Streamline Workflows

Raycast, a powerful Mac tool known for its advanced app launcher and multitasking capabilities, is expanding to Windows and iOS. Initially built as a faster alternative to Apple’s Spotlight, Raycast now allows users to manage apps, windows, and even chat with AI. Co-founder Thomas Paul Mann announced plans to release the Windows version, which may offer even more control, next year. The iOS app will be a simplified companion tool. Alongside the expansion, Raycast raised $30 million to further reduce busywork and streamline productivity with AI integration.

 

Weekend Events | September 27 – September 29

We are absolutely falling for all of the autumn fun happening around town. From festivals to haunts, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this last weekend of September. Check out the top events taking place September 27 through September 29. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 27 – September 29  

Family Style Feast

When: September 28   

Where: Chinatown

What: The Complex-sponsored Family Style Fest returns in 2024, blending food and streetwear for an exciting mash-up. This year’s event will feature top streetwear brands such as Billionaire Boys Club and Compton Cowboys, alongside a lineup of talented chefs and restaurants, mostly from the local scene. Highlights include Kato’s Jon Yao, Baroo’s Kwang Uh, and Kuya Lord’s Lord Maynard. Notable out-of-town participants include New York’s Katz’s Delicatessen and Phoenix’s Bacanora.

Watts Towers Day of the Drum and Simon Rodia Jazz Festival

When: September 28 – September 29 

Where: Watts

What: Get ready to groove at this annual celebration of pan-African and jazz culture. For over 40 years, the Day of the Drum festival has brought music, dance, and poetry to Watts Towers for an unforgettable afternoon. The festivities continue the next day with the long-running Jazz Festival, featuring an afternoon of live jazz performances and heartfelt tributes.

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

When: Until October 31 

Where: Griffith Park 

What: If you need more evidence that Frogtown is buzzing, head to the Frogtown Art Walk. This Elysian Valley neighborhood, nestled between the 5 freeway and the L.A. River, is hosting an evening of art at various venues between Fletcher Drive and the Taylor Yard pedestrian bridge near Altman Street. Highlights include a hula hoop contest along the bike path, kitten adoptions at Salazar, poetry at the Blake Avenue Lofts, and live music at Frogtown Brewery and Spoke Bicycle Cafe. Biking and rideshare are encouraged.

 

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 27 – September 29 

Usher

When: September 21 through November 18 

Where: Inglewood 

What: If Usher’s Super Bowl performance left you feeling nostalgic, you’re in luck! The R&B star is bringing his talents to town this fall with a series of shows at the Intuit Dome, the new Clippers arena in Inglewood. Yeah!

Ohana Festival

When: September 27 – September 29 

Where: Dana Point 

What: Eddie Vedder’s Ohana Festival returns to Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, with Pearl Jam set to perform twice. Running from September 27 to 29, this year’s lineup also features a star-studded roster including Garbage, Neil Young, Turnpike Troubadours, Alanis Morissette, Idles, Black Pumas, Maren Morris, Jenny Lewis, Cat Power, The Breeders, and more.

Stand Up For Pets

When: September 27 

Where: Playa Vista

What: Bring your pup along to this dog-friendly comedy show at Annenberg PetSpace, featuring performances by Maddi Mays, Adam Fynke, Mike Glazer, Avery McKinney, Cole Garrett, and Aaron Branch. Hosted by Caitlin Benson with DJ Anna Krylova providing the tunes, tickets include two drinks, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the PetSpace Extraordinary Care Fund.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 27 – September 29 

Movies on the Roof

When: September 27 – October 26 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford Street Los Angeles

What: Settle in on the rooftop of Westfield Fashion Square’s parking garage for this al fresco film series, happening every Friday and Saturday night.

Halloween Horror Nights

When: Until November 3  

Where: Universal Studios | Universal City

What: Spooky season is creeping up, and the first sign is here: haunted houses have begun to take over Universal Studios. The theme park’s Halloween Horror Nights, just outside of Hollywood, features terrifying experiences inspired by A Quiet Place, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Insidious, and The Purge, along with a chilling maze created by The Weeknd.

Fluffology Presents: Puppy Yoga With Pawsitive Beginnings

When: September 29 

Where: 11128 Magnolia Blvd, North Hollywood, CA, USA

What: Attendees are invited to a pawsome event where they can practice yoga surrounded by adorable, adoptable puppies. Taking place in person on Sunday, September 29th, this fun-filled morning offers the perfect opportunity to relax while enjoying some puppy therapy. It’s a unique and heartwarming experience not to be missed!

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 27 – September 29 

Fall Harvest Festival – Friends of the Farm Weekend

When: September 28, 9am – 6pm

Where: 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark

What: The 27th Annual Fall Harvest Festival returns to Underwood Family Farms at 3370 Sunset Valley Road in Moorpark, running from Saturday, September 28 to Thursday, October 31, 2024. The farm will be transformed into a sprawling Pumpkin Patch and Fall Harvest experience, featuring games, rides, photo opportunities, live entertainment, themed weekends, bands, and more. Festival hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

Nights of the Jack

When: September 27 – November 2 

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Stroll through the picturesque King Gillette Ranch as it transforms into a glowing wonderland, with thousands of hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns lighting up the Santa Monica Mountains hideaway. This year, Nights of the Jack features a mile-long walking trail, complete with food trucks and a festive “Spookeasy” to enhance the experience.

31st Annual California Lemon Festival

When: September 29, 10am – 5pm

Where: Girsh Park, Goleta

What: Don’t miss the 31st Annual California Lemon Festival at Girsh Park in Goleta on September 28-29, 2024. With free admission and parking, the festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Enjoy over 80 booths, lemon-infused food and drinks, live entertainment, a kid zone, a classic car show on Saturday, pie-eating contests, Safety Street, and much more.

 

Mortgage Rate Update | September 26, 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 September 26, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.08%, down from 6.09% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.16%, up from 5.15% 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.

Trendy Brunch Spots in Town | L.A. Eats

If there is one thing you can expect here in town, it’s superb trendy brunch spots! With so many options popping up, it’s tough to keep tabs. Check out our recommendations below of the top trendy brunch spots to enjoy this weekend and beyond.

Asterid by Ray Garcia

Location: 141 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Make your way to Walt Disney Concert Hall for brunch at Asterid. This trendy brunch spot features small- and large-format plates of California-inspired cuisine. Enjoy dishes like mushroom hash, oxtail with tortilla spaetzle, and short rib bibimbap. To drink, there are cocktails, wines, and specially curated buckets of canned cocktails, wines, and beers from bar director Chris Chernock.

The Lonely Oyster

Location: 1320 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026

An Echo Park newcomer, this trendy brunch spot has already gained a fervent following for its oysters, seafood towers, and good vibes. Indulge in dishes like salmon benedict with caviar, wagyu with eggs, and lemon ricotta pancakes. Since the restaurant is owned by Little Joy Cocktails’s Don Andes, expect to see the bar’s bloody mary mix Sister Mary on the menu.

Levant Bistro + Bake Shop

Location: 2112 Sunset Blvd Suite JKL, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Levant Bistro began as a food blog for Anita Khalek to share her family’s and her own recipes, with dishes inspired by countries surrounding the Mediterranean. The gluten-free restaurant, which sources organic ingredients, offers dishes like merguez sausage flatbread, farinata (a baked chickpea torte) with sweet onions and roasted carrots, and shakshuka. Make sure to also browse the pastry case for some goodies as well.

Madre! Oaxacan Restaurant and Mezcaleria

Location: 1261 Cabrillo Ave STE 100, Torrance, CA 90501

Known for its stellar mezcal selection and Oaxacan cuisine, Madre launched brunch at its Torrance and West Hollywood locations. The menu, which includes several vegetarian options, is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hearty appetites will appreciate the barbacoa de borrego (lamb) served with consome, salsa, black bean paste, and tortillas.

Mother Tongue Restaurant

Location: 960 N La Brea Ave 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90038

Mother Tongue is as LA as it gets: a healthy restaurant from chef-restaurateur Michael Mina (Bourbon Steak, Bungalow Kitchen) on top of luxe fitness club Heimat in Hollywood. Dubbed “Weekend Ritual,” diners can make a selection between items like shiitake mushroom larb and striped bass crudo, to egg sando and shakshuka. It also boasts an unlimited rosé offering for $30 per person. 

The Top Outdoor Flea Markets | Out & About

Looking for a unique decor piece or vintage find? Lucky for you, SoCal is full of outdoor flea markets with ultra-cool digs. From Santa Monica to the San Fernando Valley, check out one of the markets listed below:  

Santa Monica Airport Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market

When: The 1st & 4th Sunday of Every Month

Make your way to Santa Monica Airport for a trove of vintage finds and antique collectibles. When it comes to outdoor flea markets, this is a must for residents of the westside. All admission on the first Sunday of the month is $4; On the fourth Sunday, it’s $7 between 6-8 am; $5 after 8 am; Children under 14 are free; Free parking on the first and fourth Sundays.

PCC Flea Market

When: The 1st Sunday of each month

Set inside a parking garage, the Pasadena Flea Market may not have the typical setting, but the selection is worth the trip. Find loads of home decor, vintage clothing, art, etc., for sale. If you are a music lover, you’ll be in paradise with vintage concert t-shirts, collectibles, and more.

Rose Bowl Flea Market

When: The 2nd Sunday of every month

Well curated and full of absolute gems, the Rose Bowl Flea Market has much to offer. As far as outdoor flea markets go, you’ll find vintage furniture, antiques, home decor, fabric, jewelry, clothing, toys, collectibles, and more here!

Long Beach Antique Market

When: The 3rd Sunday of every month

The Long Beach Flea Market might not be as vast as the Rose Bowl Flea market, but there is still plenty to be found in LB. With well-curated vintage bargains on a smaller scale, the Long Beach Flea Market is an ideal outing for the entire family. 

Topanga Vintage Market

When: The 4th Sunday of every month

San Fernando Valley’s outdoor market has plenty of cool finds to peruse through. Although much smaller than the others, you can still find some incredible vintage finds.

Melrose Trading Post

When: Every Weekend

No true Californian will pass up the chance to visit the Melrose Trading Post. This mini flea takes place every weekend at a local LA high school. Considerably a local icon, you may not find as many unique pieces at this flea market, but you’ll be sure to have a good time.

September is National Preparedness Month | Home Tips

September is National Preparedness Month – meaning it’s time to make sure you are prepared! Keeping your loved ones safe is, of course, a top priority. Having the skills, knowledge, and tools to handle an emergency will give you peace of mind.

In Southern California, we’ve had our fair share of natural disasters that have impacted many. So it is important that you and your family prepare and have a strategy in the event of an emergency.

With that said, let’s share what steps to take to stay prepared and alert should disaster strike.

How to be prepared during National Preparedness Month.

1. HAVE A KIT READY

Buy or build an emergency preparedness kit that would sustain your family for up to 14 days. You would need to make sure it is portable and placed in an easily accessible area. Likewise, every member of the family must be made aware of the designated area.

Your kit should include:

  • water,
  • non-perishable food items,
  • batteries
  • battery operated radio
  • Whistle (to signal for help)
  • First aid kit
  • Masks
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags
  • Manual can opener (for tinned food)
  • Flashlight
  • Cell phone with chargers
  • Power banks for cellphones
  • Do not forget to factor in food for pets and children if it applies.

2. HAVE A PLAN

Communication is key. Have a contingency plan in place that is clear and detailed. Likewise, all the occupants of your home will need to know what steps to follow. The plan should cover home emergencies and out-of-home emergencies. Please see the American Redcross Family Disaster Plan Template, as it gives you a detailed guide on what you would need to cover.

3. STAY INFORMED

With the rise of social media and the internet, information is readily available. Ensure you are following reputable pages and sites and register with FEMA preparedness programs.

4. CPR CERTIFIED

At least one member of the family needs to be trained in CPR. Should an event occur, you will be the first responder and may have to save a life. It is imperative that have enough knowledge and skill to perform CPR and check vitals whilst waiting for emergency personnel to reach you.

Natural disasters can be sudden and devastating therefore, the time to prepare for all types of emergencies is now to avoid being court off guard.

Economic Update | Week Ending September 21, 2024

The Federal Reserve began its cycle of rate cuts with the first rate cut in four years – Declaring that inflation has come under control, the Fed dropped its key rates by ½% on Wednesday. With inflation spiking bringing the CPI to 9.1% in June 2022 the Fed enacted one of the most aggressive rate hike campaigns in history. They increased rates steadily until they hit a 25-year high. Now that the CPI has worked its way down, it measured 2.5% in August, the Fed has begun a campaign of dropping rates to a more “neutral rate” from their previous “restrictive rate.” Experts expect two more drops before the end of the year, likely .25% each. Next Friday we will get the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) report, a gauge of inflation that is a Fed favorite. One week from Friday we will get the September Jobs report. Those reports will have an impact on bond yields and mortgage rates which did not drop after the Fed announced their rate drop. That drop was expected and was already “built into” long-term bond yields and mortgage rates.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,063.36, up 1.6% from 41,393.78 last week. It is up 11.6% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,702.55, up 1.4% from 5,626.78 last week. The S&P is up 19.6% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 17,948.32, up 1.5% from 17,683.98 last week. It is up 19.6% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields up slightly this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.73%, up from 3.66% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.07%, up from 3.93% 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 September 19, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.09%, down from 6.2% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.15%, down from 5.27% 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.

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

U.S. existing-home sales August 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.86 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in August, down 4.2% from an annualized rate of 4.03 million last August. The median price for a home in the U.S. in August was $416,700, up 3.1% from $404,200 one year ago. There was a 4.2 months’ supply of homes for sale in August, up from a 3.3 months’ supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 26% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 19% of all sales. All-cash purchases accounted for 26% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

August California existing-home sales report – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 262,050 on an annualized rate in August, up 2.8% from a revised 254,820 homes sold on an annualized basis last August. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $888,740 , up 3.4% from $859,670. one year ago. There was a 3.2 months’ supply of homes for sale, up from a 2.4-months’ supply in August 2023.

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

Have a great weekend!

From Google Passkey to YouTube Hype and More! | Tech News

Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech! From Google Passkey to YouTube Hype and more, we have you covered on the latest. Read on for this week’s round-up of tech news from across the web.

 

Hipstamatic’s Party! Disposable Camera App Revives Event Photography

Hipstamatic’s new Party! Disposable Camera app recreates the charm of disposable film cameras for event photography, allowing guests to snap candid photos at weddings or other gatherings. Guests can use a custom QR code to download the app and join the event, with all photos collected in a private gallery available the day after, mimicking the anticipation of film development. The app is free for up to five users, with tiered pricing for larger groups. While similar apps exist, Hipstamatic’s Party! app stands out for its visual styles and focus on simulating the retro camera experience, though it’s limited to iPhone users.

Google Enhances Passkey Support in Chrome for Easier Access Across Devices

Google is upgrading passkey support in Chrome, making it easier to use passwordless sign-in credentials across multiple devices. The update introduces a Google Password Manager PIN, allowing users to securely save and sync passkeys across Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, with iOS support coming soon. This replaces the previous need to scan a QR code on Android devices, while maintaining security with end-to-end encryption. Users can unlock passkeys on new devices by using either their Android screen or the Password Manager PIN.

 

Microsoft Launches Windows App for Streaming Across Multiple Platforms

Microsoft has launched a new Windows app for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, web browsers, Android, and Windows PCs. The app serves as a hub for streaming Windows from sources like Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Remote Desktop, featuring a customizable homescreen, multi-monitor support, and USB redirection for local devices. Designed for work and school accounts, the app helps Remote Desktop users connect to work PCs from personal devices. While currently limited to business users, the app is part of Microsoft’s long-term vision of moving Windows to the cloud. The app is available on the Microsoft Store, Apple’s App Store, and in public preview on Android.

YouTube Introduces Hype to Boost Smaller Creators

YouTube is launching Hype, a new feature designed to help smaller channels grow by allowing users to promote their favorite videos. With the Hype button, users can recommend videos from channels with fewer than 500,000 subscribers, contributing to a platform-wide leaderboard. Each user gets three hypes per week, and the most-hyped videos are ranked, with smaller channels receiving more points per hype to ensure visibility. Hype aims to foster community engagement, offering creators bonuses and users rewards like badges and performance summaries for their hypes. This feature helps fans support emerging creators while making video discovery easier.

Amazon Launches New AI Tools to Enhance Shopping Experience

Amazon has introduced new generative AI tools to personalize the shopping experience for both customers and sellers. At the Amazon Accelerate event, the company unveiled features like personalized product recommendations based on customers’ preferences and shopping habits, as well as more relevant product descriptions tailored to user interests. For sellers, Amazon launched a free AI-powered video generator and live image tool, making video marketing more accessible. Additionally, “Project Amelia,” a chatbot offering personalized business insights, is being tested with select retailers. These AI updates aim to improve user engagement and seller performance on the platform.

Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22

As we continue on through the month of September, it’s time to dive into the weekend’s top events. From foodie focused to music and arts, there are plenty of things happening around town! Check out our weekend round-up for September 20 through September 22!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22 

Talks & Telescopes

When: October 19  

Where: Griffith Park

What: Interested in gazing through Mt. Wilson’s historic telescopes? The most affordable way to do so is at one of the Talks & Telescopes events. These monthly Saturday night gatherings feature astronomy lectures followed by several hours of stargazing through portable telescopes on the grounds, as well as the 60 and 100-inch telescopes, all for just $50—a fraction of the cost of the observatory’s late-night stargazing sessions.

 L.A. Times Food Bowl

When: September 20 – September 22 

Where: Hollywood

What: Indulge in one, two, or all three days of culinary exploration at this weekend-long event hosted by the L.A. Times Food section, featuring some of the city’s top restaurants. Each ticket provides unlimited food and drinks, along with access to live cooking demonstrations.

Frogtown Art Walk

When: September 21 

Where: Frogtown

What: If you need more evidence that Frogtown is buzzing, head to the Frogtown Art Walk. This Elysian Valley neighborhood, nestled between the 5 freeway and the L.A. River, is hosting an evening of art at various venues between Fletcher Drive and the Taylor Yard pedestrian bridge near Altman Street. Highlights include a hula hoop contest along the bike path, kitten adoptions at Salazar, poetry at the Blake Avenue Lofts, and live music at Frogtown Brewery and Spoke Bicycle Cafe. Biking and rideshare are encouraged.

 

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22 

Usher

When: September 21 through November 18 

Where: Inglewood 

What: If Usher’s Super Bowl performance left you feeling nostalgic, you’re in luck! The R&B star is bringing his talents to town this fall with a series of shows at the Intuit Dome, the new Clippers arena in Inglewood. Yeah!

‘Only Murders in the Building’ Escape Game

When: Until December 31 

Where: Century City 

What: The beloved murder mystery parody of true crime podcasts, Only Murders in the Building, comes to life with an exciting escape room experience. A section of Westfield Century City transforms into a mock movie set, where you and your team will be challenged to track down a missing film reel.

Aloha Market

When: September 20 – September 22 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Experience a slice of Hawaii without leaving Los Angeles at this pop-up market in Venice. From September 20 to 22, over 50 Hawaiian businesses and artisans will set up shop and participate in talks at 1511 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, next to the Brig. You’ll find coffee, sweets, and spirits, along with hands-on classes like lei making and perfumery (available for an additional fee).

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22 

Shakespeare in the Garden

When: September 21 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford Street Los Angeles

What: Explore the botanical references in William Shakespeare’s works during this family-friendly cultural event at TPF’s demonstration gardens. On a Saturday afternoon, enjoy a picnic while delving into how the famous Bard used plants, trees, and flowers as metaphors in his writing, with many of the species having California native counterparts. Through a read-aloud session, attendees will break down examples of Shakespeare’s language, making it accessible to modern audiences. The event concludes with a unique monologue performance by a classically trained actor in the outdoor setting.

Halloween Horror Nights

When: September 13   

Where: Universal Studios | Universal City

What: Spooky season is creeping up, and the first sign is here: haunted houses have begun to take over Universal Studios. The theme park’s Halloween Horror Nights, just outside of Hollywood, features terrifying experiences inspired by A Quiet Place, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Insidious, and The Purge, along with a chilling maze created by The Weeknd.

Hispanic Heritage Month Skate Night

When: September 20 

Where: Moonlight Rollerway, Inc. | 5110 San Fernando Road Glendale

What: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Night at Moonlight Rollerway with music, skating, delicious food, and fun for all ages! Join the festivities and experience the vibrant culture in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss out!

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 20 – September 22 

Free Movies at the Park

When: September 20, 6pm – 9pm

Where: Thousand Oaks Community Park

What: Join Conejo Recreation and Park District for free Movies at the Park this summer at Thousand Oaks Community Park (2525 N. Moorpark Road). Enjoy Moana at sundown, with family activities starting an hour before. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner for a fun, free evening!

40th Annual Ventura County Coastal Cleanup Day

When: September 21, 9am – 12pm

Where: Locations Throughout Ventura County

What: The 40th Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day is happening on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon at beaches and waterways across the state. Join @vccoastcleanupday to help remove trash and plastic pollution that has accumulated in our county since the last cleanup. Get involved and make a difference locally!

ArtWalk Ventura

When: September 21, 12pm – 5pm

Where: Downtown Ventura, Ventura

What: ArtWalk Ventura returns on September 21 and 22, 2024, offering a free, self-guided tour through Ventura’s historic Downtown and Westside Cultural District. This community event features over 200 artists from Southern California showcasing and selling their work, along with live performances from the Ventura County Ballet, Rubicon Theater, aerial dancers, and more. New this year is the Ventura Film Festival and Poetry Reading at the Museum of Ventura County’s Pavilion.