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This week at Rodeo Realty:Valley Newsletter July 22-28!!
The Best Weekend Cruises Out of SoCal
With the weekend in full swing and summer trailblazing through, what are you doing with you time off? There are so many options throughout L.A. but sometime a quick getaway is the best planned route. Skip your usual destinations and try something different for your weekend away. Since we live so close to the sea why not try a weekend cruise. Our selection of ships setting sail from our coast will be just the type of self-care time you need without the 12-hour flight. Read on for the best cruises out of SoCal.
Bon Voyage Angeleno’s!
4 DAY Baja Mexico CRUISE
Via: Carnival Cruise Line-Inspiration
LEAVING: Los Angeles
VISITING: Catalina Island and Ensenada
Enjoy this weekend trip south of the border to Catalina Island and Baja Mexico. With an extra day set aside just for cruising and the best sips, bites and sites Carnival has to offer, fun would be an understatement.
3 DAY BAJA MEXICO CRUISE
Via: Carnival Cruise Line-Imagination
LEAVING: Los Angeles
VISITING: Ensenada
Similar to the 4 Day cruise, this trip has all the same fun with just one less day and stop. If you are crunched for time and just need a weekend away without the extra day, a 3 day trip down to Ensenada will do the trick.
3 day pacific coastal CRUISE
Via: Royal Princess Cruise Line
LEAVING: Long
From its breathtaking piazza-style Atrium to the dramatic views from the glass-floored SeaWalk®, Royal Princess is sure to delight. This cruise sets sail from Los Angeles and docks ship in the beautiful city of Vancouver, British Columbia.
Cruise by the Hour
Via: Tiki Mermaid
LEAVING: Marina Del Rey
Needing just the day to get away? You wont need to pack much with Tiki Mermaid Exotic Yacht Charters. Offering a luxury yacht by the hour, their under 25 people package includes food and drinks (pricing varies). Spend a few hours cruising around the harbor while enjoying delectable bites and hand crafted drinks.
Weekend Events: July 26-28
Can we just speak on behalf of everyone that summer is breezing by way too fast?! With July pretty much over and August ramping up what are you doing with your time out in the sun? Don’t miss the best that this city has to offer this season. Read our weekend round-up of fun events throughout town and make the most of your summer daze!!
Friday, July 26
Long Beach Crawfish Festival
Location: Rainbow Lagoon, Long Beach
Head down to the Rainbow Lagoon July 26 – 28 for a crustacean-centric, weekend-long celebration. Dig in, while chefs prepare true, Louisiana-style crawfish along with other cajun delicacies. Festival highlights include the Second Line Dancing Parade, live entertainment, a Karaoke Lounge with a live band, and of course, crawfish prepared Louisiana style in the world’s largest crawfish pots.
Summer Nights in the Garden
Location: Natural History Museum
Enjoy this fun summer fete as it returns to the Natural History Museum this weekend. Sip garden-inspired cocktails, listen to live music, take garden tours and more. Tickets are free to this series and can be obtained online.
Blitzen’s Holiday Pop-up
Location: Here and Now, DTLA
It’s Christmas in July at Here and Now as they transform their DTLA bar into Blitzen’s a winter holiday themed pop-up. Holiday cheer will be spread from July 23 through July 28. Transport yourself to the North Pole thanks to a snow machine, festive entertainment and a selection of yuletide and Hanukkah themed food plus cheerful punny cocktails.
Saturday, July 27
The 2019 Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival
Location: Marine Stadium, Long Beach
Head to LB’s Marine Stadium for two days of excitement by the water. This nautical day of fun will feature one of the largest dragon boat competitions in California. An extra plus will be Chinese traditional art demonstrations, Chinese Acrobats, martial arts performances and more.
24th Annual Central Avenue Jazz Festival
Location: Central Avenue
This Jazz fest celebrates the legacy of the Historic Central Avenue through a two-day event. The festival will feature three musical stages, food offerings, and art. The event takes place along Central Avenue between MLK Blvd. and Vernon.
Camp Fangoria
Location: Montalbán Theatre, Hollywood
is a ten-hour-long event screening 80s horror classics at the Montalbán Theatre in Hollywood. The all most all nighter will include Q&As from special guests, a live podcast, DJ sets, horror trivia, Nintendo gaming tournaments, horror-camp photo-booth plus access to rooftop where there’s more surprises. The Alone Experience will also be there offering a “site-specific, fully immersive and existential experience” inside the historic theater.
Sunday, July 28
Peruvian Fest Los Angeles
Location: Plaza de la Raza
Celebrate Peruvian Independence Day with a fun filled daytime festival. The event will feature all facets of Peruvian culture like food, traditional drinks, as well as Peruvian music and dance.
Bacchus Uncorked: Wine and the Senses
Location: The Getty Villa
The Getty Villa’s Bacchus Uncorked series returns with engaging programs focused on art, wine and culture in the ancient world. This Sunday they’ll host Bacchus Uncorked: Wine and the Senses a talk and wine tasting that bridges ancient philosophy and modern neuroscience.
Smorgasburg L.A.-3rd Annual Ice Cream Alley
Location: DTLA
Smorgasburg LA’s 3rd Annual Ice Cream Alley returns bigger and better than ever. Enjoy awesome scoop vendors, one-of-a-kind collaborations, plus its own dedicated beer garden with extended hours until 6 p.m.! Happening every Sunday through September 1.
Out and About: GLAMPING
Glamping short for “glamour camping” gives you the best of both worlds of being out in nature but within the comfort for everyday life. It’s where stunning nature meets modern luxury. A new way to experience the untamed and completely unique parts of the world, without having to go through the hassle of hauling loads of gear into the backcountry. You get the starry nights, being around the crackling campfire, a cozy sleeping bag, and all the best parts of camping in some of California’s most beautiful settings.
Sky Valley Camp
74711 Dillon Rd, Sky Valley,CA 92241
https://www.skyvalleyresort.com/joshua-tree
Sky Valley Camp the paradise for the strange and exotic. This spot is centrally located to hiking trails in Coachella Valley and local hot springs. At the end of your desert adventure, chill outside your airstream or in the outdoor clawfoot bathtub. Family owned since 1986. The Ranch is located in Sky Valley. An unincorporated rural community in Southern California’s low desert. Along with the communities of Desert Edge and Indio Hills, Sky Valley occupies the valley between the Indio Hills and Joshua Tree National Park. This place has unobstructed views of the mountains and surrounding skyline make this place magical during the twilight hours and early mornings.
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens
47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Go Glamping at the zoo, with Starry Safari at the The Living Desert, a nature preserve of more than 1,000 acres of Sonoran Desert showcases animals of the world’s deserts. The collection of exhibits ranges from a tour of terrains representing and hosting North American and African desert wildlife, an authentic replica of a northeast African village, to Eagle Canyon, where golden eagles, mountain lions, bobcats, and badgers thrive. After your exclusive night tour of the park, slumber under the stars in a roomy tent with all your gear provided. Explore a network of paths that skirt the adjacent Santa Rosa Mountains before returning to check out the Discovery Center with its many exhibits on display.
Sequoia High Sierra Camp
65745 Big Meadows Dr, Sequoia Natl Pk, CA 93262
https://www.sequoiahighsierracamp.com/
A wilderness site within Kings Canyon National Park where guests snuggle up in off-the-grid tent-cabins. It’s a 1-mile hike from the nearest parking lot, but once you get to the compound of tents (elevation: 8,282 feet), it’s nothing but glamping in truly exceptional California style. Three meals a day are served; dinners are five-course, open-air affairs prepared by a gourmet chef, and guests are served while seated at large communal tables. Canvas tents are outfitted with luxurious rugs and feather duvets and woolen blankets on cozy beds, propane lanterns, and of course, stunning views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada just outside your tent flaps. Hiking trails to mountain meadows, jewel-like alpine lakes, or high summits with commanding views.
Costanoa Lodge
2001 Rossi Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060
Costanoa Lodge is an eco-friendly glamping destination along the San Mateo Coast in Pescadero, roughly a 1.5 hour drive south from San Francisco. this peaceful retreat is surrounded by 30,000 acres of state parks from Big Basin to Año Nuevo State Reserve and Butano State Park. The grounds are heaven on earth for nature and wildlife lovers. Mountain bike through towering redwoods, horseback ride across coastal meadows, explore beaches and tide pools, then chill out in a fully outfitted safari-tent “bungalow”.
AutoCamp
Santa Barbara
2717 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Sleep in a shiny silver bullet Airstream outfitted for you and your family or friends, with a little deck and Adirondack chairs outside, a gadget-filled kitchen, cozy quilts for snuggling, and even toiletries. Each sleek trailer also includes two cruiser bikes—perfect to go explore such attractions in Santa Barbara as Stearns Wharf, the beach, and the bustling Santa Barbara Public Market.
Russian River in Sonoma County
14120 Old Cazadero Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446
The lodging options have expanded with 10 luxury safari tents in addition to 20 Airstreams. Activities include: Walk down to the Russian River to swim or canoe, play lawn games, or lounge by a fire pit inside or outside the mid-century-modern-style clubhouse. The 3,000-square-foot building also offers a store to stock up on snacks and local beer and wine.
Yosemite
6323 CA-140, Midpines, CA 95345
Opened in 2019, is the largest and most remote site, near the historic mountain town of Mariposa. Guests can enjoy many of the same amenities, plus a heated pool, mid-century modern clubhouse, and a pond with a paddleboat and canoe. Yosemite National Park is about 40 miles away and accessible via a daily shuttle.
El Capitan Canyon
11560 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93117
http://www.elcapitancanyon.com/
With a reputation as one of the most enchanting glamping experiences in the state, nestled amidst the rolling coastal hills 30 minutes northwest of Santa Barbara—is a once in a lifetime getaway experience. The leafy compound is so secluded that it’s hard to believe that more than 100 cabins and safari tents occupy the lush hillside landscape, surrounded on three sides by the oceanfront and backcountry of El Capitan State Beach.
Ventura Ranch KOA
7400 Pine Grove Road Santa Paula, CA 93060
https://koa.com/campgrounds/ventura-ranch/
Located below Ventura County’s Topatopa mountain range just outside of Santa Paula, this delightful family retreat offers guests an outdoor experience with an activity-filled twist. Cozy rustic accommodations for glampers include tepees, glamour tents, and deluxe cabins which include a partial kitchen, private bedroom, and bath. Traditional KOA campsites are also available.
Mendocino Grove
9601 CA-1 Mendocino, California 95460
Mendocino Grove goes above and beyond to provide glampers and their families the comforts of a truly delightful, pleasure-filled camping trip. Tents come with comfortable beds and warm, comfy bedding, rustic redwood decks boast relaxing, leather butterfly-chairs to cradle you as you witness the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the area and the mammoth trees surrounding your campsite. A quarter of a mile from your campsite is the Big River Beach and trail, and a two-minute drive will get you to the quaint village of Mendocino where you’ll find fantastic food options and shopping.
LA Eats: Best Brunch Spots
The best part of summer on the weekend is finding the perfect brunch spot. With so many options in L.A, we decided to cut the culinary clutter. Read below for our pick of the best brunch spots to try throughout the city and treat yourself to a Mimosa…or two!
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Hippo – 5916 ½ N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90042
For those with gluten-free diets, Hippo is the place to be! Enjoy meals from buttermilk hotcakes to pasta and fresh spaghetti, you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.
https://www.hipporestaurant.com/
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Otoño – 5715 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90042
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can indulge in tapas for brunch Saturdays and Sundays at Otoño. The Catalonia-inspired menu contains savory dishes like scrambled eggs with tetilla cheese and chives, pan de la casa and more!
https://www.otonorestaurant.com/
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Audrey at the Hammer – 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90024
This brunch menu contains a nice balance of light and hearty dishes created by Chef Lisa Giffen. Meals include braised pork with beans for meat lovers and coconut chia bowls with passionfruit for non-meat lovers.
https://www.audreyatthehammer.com/
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Golden Bull Restaurant – 170 W. Channel Rd, Santa Monica, CA 90402
If you are looking for an ideal beach day in Malibu, then Golden Bull’s classic steakhouse is the perfect place for brunch! Their menu serves everything from buttermilk pancakes and ribeye steak hash to bottomless bright orange mimosas that go perfectly with each meal.
https://goldenbullsantamonica.com/
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Comfort LA Inglewood – 902 N. La Brea Ave., Inglewood, CA 90302
With just one item on the menu, Comfort LA makes it easy for you to select your meal. Their Brunch Special includes two waffles and five wings with the option to add additional syrup and waffles for a nominal fee.
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Alta – 5359 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016
Chef Keith Corbin has something for everyone on his California-soul menu. Pair dishes like steak and eggs, cornmeal pancakes and avocado toast with bottomless mimosas for $20.
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Petty Cash Taqueria & Bar – 7360 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
On Saturdays and Sundays, expect a Mexican-inflected fare from chefs Margarita and Walter Manke from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy some champurrado with chocolate and hazelnut with chilaquiles and black beans, a Mexican breakfast sandwich or several taco variations from their menu.
https://pettycashtaqueria.com/
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Alimento – 1710 Silver Lake Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026
After only serving dinner for five years, Alimento has expanded their menu to serve brunch! Try some of their crowd-pleasing sweets such as ricotta doughnut holes, breakfast sandwiches and French toast. You won’t be disappointed!
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Los Balcones Studio City – 11334 Moorpark St., Studio City, CA 91602
The Los Balcones team and chef Ricardo Zarate add an artful mash-up of traditional brunch classics with Peruvian flavors. Choose between Tiger prawns with scrambled eggs and a Chile relleno-stuffed breakfast burrito from their brunch menu.
https://losbalconesstudiocity.com/
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Here’s Looking At You – 3901 W. 6th, Los Angeles, CA 90020
This Koreatown hotspot has become one of the most innovative brunch spots in town. Chef Jonathan Whitener’s menu ranges from smoked salmon roe and herbs to cocktail offerings that are worth trying!
Weekend Events: July 12-14
The weekend is upon us and there is no better time to venture out into the yonder of LA. We’re not talking about taking a hike through Malibu Creek…although that’s an option. We have a weekend round-up to get you out into the city and enjoying the best moments of summer. So skip the regular routine and discover your inner Angeleno!
Friday, July 12
Summer Movie Nights: The Karate Kid
Location: Brand Park, Mission Hills
Mark your calendars: summer movie nights are back in the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Bring your family, friends, and pack a picnic for a movie night under the stars. All movie screenings begin at 7:30 PM. Popcorn will be provided.
Musical Theatre West presents DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID
Location: Carpenter Performing Arts Center, Long Beach
Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken this fishy fable will capture your heart. Moreover, enjoy hit songs like “Under the Sea”, “Kiss the Girl” and “Part of Your World”. Certainly it will be entertainment for the whole family!
Cyndi Lauper
Location: The Hollywood Bowl
Her iconic voice, punk glamour, and infectious female strength catapulted her to stardom. Groundbreaking Grammy®, Emmy®, and Tony® Award–winning songwriter and performing artist Cyndi Lauper rocks the stage joined by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and conductor Thomas Wilkins.
Saturday, July 13
Hip Hop Fundamentals
Location: Skirball Cultural Center
Get down with Hip Hop Fundamentals, an award-winning team of diverse professional breakdancers dedicated to hip-hop education. As a result through their drive to inspire audiences and participants of all ages, they will present their The Principles of Hip Hop show. Don’t miss this exploration of hip-hop’s rich cultural history and how underserved inner-city youth have changed the world!
Queen Mary’s Rock the Queen
Location: The Queen Mary, Long Beach
Take to the Queen Mary this Saturday for an unforgettable flash back evening to the British Invasion of the 1960’s and 1980’s. Hope aboard aboard as some of SoCal’s best British tribute bands rock the night away. Most importantly, revel in performances from The Who Generation, Britain’s Finest, Arena, These Handsome Devils, and The Cured.
Paul McCartney: Freshen Up U.S. Tour
Location: Dodger Stadium
Needing no introduction, don’t miss Sir Paul McCartney at the home of the boys in blue this weekend only! Debuting a brand new production, is an unforgettable experience from every seat in the house. The Beatles frontman will showcase a selection of the best songs ever written or performed Paul McCartney. Moreover is a show that promises a once in a lifetime evening transcending and elevating the potential of live music.
Sunday, July 14
California Philharmonic Presents ‘Bastille Day’
Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall
Francophiles will cheer “Vive la France” when the California Philharmonic Orchestra presents its “Bastille Day”. A symphony of french sound, the Bastille Day concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall is sure to be magnifique!
Kids Summer Movie Series: Charlie & The Chocolate Factory
Location: The Wiltern, Los Angeles
Enjoy a special screening of the Tim Burton reimagined Roald Dahl tale, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory! Watch the story of young Charlie Bucket as he wins a fantastical opportunity to enter the magical but mysterious factory of candy maker Willy Wonka. Come early and upgrade to our *Kid Party prior to screening! There will be photo opps, face painting, bounce house, carnival games & more fun surprises!
Festival of Arts Family Art Day
Location: Festival of Arts Grounds
“Family Art Day” at the Festival of Arts is the most fun-filled, art-filled and enchantment-filled day of the entire summer for families! Enjoy a special performance by the award-winning Le PeTiT CiRqUe, America’s only all-kid cirque company. Limited space available. Children 5 and under receive free admission all summer long to the Festival of Arts.
Tips to Upgrade Your Porch
It’s summer time! So why not change up your outdoor scenery? While we aren’t talking about a complete redo of your front porch, a light makeover is just the trick. Give the front of your home a fresh update that’ll wow the neighborhood for seasons to come! Read on for tips on sprucing up your front porch!!
Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint
Paint is an affordable way to refresh anything—everything from your bedroom or living room to your kitchen cabinets or end tables can benefit from a new paint job, and so can your porch. Opt for a fresh and unique color or read our best paint colors to match your mood blog for palette ideas.
Invest in Year-Round Furniture
Go for outdoor furniture pieces that can work year round and that don’t require you to change out the cushions. Switching up accent colors for your plant pots and accessories are simple once you establish your key pieces.
Prioritize Quality
Quality is a priority. While quality furniture and decorative accents may be more expensive, their ability to withstand the elements and continue to look good for years to come makes them worth the investment now.
Use Tall Planters
If a porch is long and rectangular try a pair of lush planters on either side of the front door. Tall, linear planters provide a nice symmetry for a porch and work with nearly every décor style.
Keep Things Tidy
Think of your front porch as an entryway to your front door and not a drop zone for shoes, toys, and bikes. Too much clutter can cause you to lose sight of the front door as the focal point of the exterior of your home.
Out and About: The Best Public Beaches
What could be a better way to spend your weekend than seaside? Thats a no-brainer here in L.A. With the beach a short drive away, why not hit the coast this summer. And don’t worry, we’re sparing you the trouble of searching for the best spots. We’ve rounded up the best public beaches around SoCal so you can have a proper oceanic reprieve. Read below for an Out and About edition of your next seaside escape!
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Paradise Cove Beach
Malibu, CA – 10am-Sunset
This beach was made famous by the local café that attracts all types of visitors due to its unique and popular location. Find yourself near clean sand, sandstone cliffs and majestic palm trees at Paradise Cove.
https://www.paradisecovemalibu.com/contact-us/
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Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach, CA – 8am-9pm
The Pier is a state historical landmark and is the oldest of its kind! A popular spot for fishing, swimming, volleyball and sunset viewings.
https://www.citymb.info/visitors/maps-and-directions
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Zuma Beach Country Park
30000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 6am-10pm
This beach area is famous for its onsite surf lessons, swing sets, dolphin and whale spotting and massive parking area. During the summer, Zuma Beach is filled with crowds of visitors catches some waves and soaking up the sun!
https://www.zuma-beach.com/opening-hours.html
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El Matador State Beach
32215 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 8:00 am-8:00 pm
This beach is popular for photographers and wedding planners because of the secret sea caves to explore. Situated on a bluff, El Matador provides a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean you can enjoy!
https://www.californiabeaches.com/beach/el-matador-state-beach/
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Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Cross Creek Rd., off Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 8:00 am-Sunset
This beach offers guided tours around the area as well as the Malibu Lagoon Museum for visitors interested in history. Birdwatchers can study over 200 species of birds in their natural habitat on dirt pathways along the wetlands.
https://www.californiasbestbeaches.com/malibu_lagoon/malibu_lagoon_beach_mob.html
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Abalone Cove Shoreline
5970 Palos Verdes Dr. S, Rancho Palos Verdes – 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Well-known for its outstanding views, Abalone Cove is located along the rugged Palos Verde coastline. This rare gem is best visited during low tide where seas creatures like hermit crabs, small octopi and sea hares reside.
https://www.rpvca.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Abalone-Cove-Shoreline-Park-1
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Leo Carrillo State Beach
35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 8:00 am-3:00 pm
Also known as the “movie beach” among filmmakers, Leo Carrillo State Beach boasts a wide range of caves, reefs and tide pools. Windsurfing, surfing, sunbathing and swimming are a few common enjoyed activities.
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Annenberg Community Beach House
415 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica, CA, 90402– 8:30am-8:30pm
The Beach House combines elements of the historic Marion Davies Estate with new amenities to create a truly unique community destination that’s open to all – no membership required. With spectacular views, splash pad, children’s play area, gallery, historic pool, and Marion Davies Guest House there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Beach House!
https://www.annenbergbeachhouse.com/
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Topanga State Beach
18700 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 8:00 am-Sunset
One of the most significant locations for beach enthusiasts is Topanga State Beach. A great spot for picnics or dining at Malibu Chart House to enjoy a meal by the beach.
https://beaches.lacounty.gov/topanga-beach/
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Nicholas Canyon County Beach
33850 CA-1, Malibu, CA – 6:30am-8:00 pm
Many windsurfers, divers and swimmers enjoy the beautiful waters at this beach’s point break. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Nicholas Canyon County Beach this summer or indulge in foods from the food trucks along the beach.
LA Eats: July 4th Recipes
We know what you’re thinking. It’s not quite L.A. Eats if you have to DIY. Here in the city of stars, if you’re not partaking in the usual revelry, an at home fete is the most ideal. We know there are plenty of day parties from The Bungalow to The W. But if you prefer your own Independence Day celebration, we have you covered. Not on your own attempt at bunting (good luck), but as the Chef de Cuisine of your home. So read on for our round-up of what to dish out July 4th, you’ve got a week to prep your red, white, and blue spread.
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Gina’s Orzo Salad
If you are looking for a quick and easy centerpiece for your picnic this summer, you might want to try Gina’s Orzo Salad recipe!
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Easy Peach Cobbler
Those who love peach cobbler but don’t know how to make it will fall in love with this simple recipe!
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American Flag Caprese Salad
Create an American flag centerpiece using fresh mozzarella, purple potatoes and tomatoes.
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Grilled Corn with Lime Butter
If you enjoy corn from places like the LA County Fair or Knott’s Berry Farm, then you’ll love this delicious recipe that is simple to create.
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Old Bay Shrimp
You’ll want to try this five-minute flavorful shrimp seasoning recipe that allows you to explore herbs and spices!
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Citrus-Spangled Spritzer
Backyard barbecues just got a star-spangled makeover with this patriotic citrus spritzer. Vibrant red, white and blue hues make it stand out from other 4th of July cocktails. Simply layer ingredients for a striking drink that will please any crowd, even in summer heat.
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Red, White and Blue Wine Spritzer
White wine spritzers are a classic summer beverage for a reason. Add some blue and red and you’ve got yourself a killer cocktail for America’s birthday.
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Snow Cone Drinks
This drink is equal parts nostalgia and party-in-a-glass. Slightly on the sweeter side, we wouldn’t have too many or you made need an extra day off on the 5th.
Stock up on popsicles and bubbly so you can enjoy this effortless, celebratory drink at a moment’s notice.
Out and About: July 4 Fireworks Celebrations
July 4th is almost here! While this years celebration of independence doesn’t fall on a weekend, there’s still plenty of fireworks to see. Per usual we have happily rounded up all the best places in and around L.A. to catch your sparkly show. So read on for a July 4th Edition of Out and About and ditch the at home sparklers and firework set.
Cinespia Presents E.T. + Fireworks
Location: Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90038
Enjoy the Steven Spielberg classic film E.T. with a special showing on the 4th of July at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Families will also be treated to a fireworks show! Pack a picnic or take advantage of the concession stands on-site. Gates open at 7:15 pm. Tickets are available online.
Grand Park
Location: 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Downtown’s free Fourth of July block party is back for another year, with live music and more than 40 food trucks kicking the day off at 3 p.m. before fireworks begin at 9 p.m.
Rose Bowl Stadium
Location: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, CA 91103
For sheer patriotism, try the Rose Bowl’s annual AmericaFest event (somewhat ironically sponsored by Japanese automaker Honda). The all-day event features food, live music, motorcycle stunts, a Michael Jackson tribute, and, of course, fireworks. Ride the Gold Line and take the free shuttle to avoid the parking lot.
The Hollywood Bowl
Location: 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90068
At the Hollywood Bowl, you’ll get three chances to celebrate Independence Day. The venue is hosting evening performances on July 2, 3, and 4 followed by a fireworks display. This year, the LA Philharmonic will be joined by ’80s girl group The Go-Gos. If you’re not interested in the music, just head to the Hollywood Bowl Overlook for views of the fireworks.
The Queen Mary
Location: 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, CA 90802
An English ocean liner might seem like an odd place to celebrate American independence, but those looking for an up-close view of a great fireworks show could do far worse than the Queen Mary’s Fourth of July festivities. Tickets start at $44. If that’s too much, the fireworks can be easily seen from nearby Alamitos Beach.
Griffith Observatory
Location: 2800 E Observatory Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027
Will it be a crowded mess? Of course! But the views are worth it. The DASH shuttle runs until 10 p.m., and parking is otherwise $4 per hour, but you could always ditch the car and hike there, too.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Universal Studios Hollywood lights up the night sky with its first-ever July 4th fireworks celebration, inviting guests to enjoy a spectacular aerial display that will take place in multiple locations within the theme park. As the spirit of Independence Day sweeps across the theme park, guests can toast the day by enjoying the theme park’s many popular rides and attractions, before the festive pyrotechnics extravaganza, synchronized to a score of Universal-themed music and patriotic favorites, beginning at 9:30pm.
ExpositionPark
Location: 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA
Exposition Park hosts a day of free family fun in honor of our country’s birthday. The fun begins at 11:00 am and features “live music, delectable food and activities for the entire family at this picnic style event.” Fireworks begin at dusk (about 9:00 pm). Parking information is available online; however, since parking is so limited families are encouraged to Go Metro.
Starlight Bowl
Location: 1249 Lockheed View Dr., Burbank, CA 91501
Enjoy a performance by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at the Starlight Bowl. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has been making music for over 25 years and is ready to get you up and dancing on the 4th of July! Parking opens at 4:30 pm, gates open at 5:30 pm, and the concert begins at 6:30 pm. Buy your tickets early to ensure good seats for the musical show as well as the fireworks! Tickets are available online.
Warner Ranch Park
Location: 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Councilman Bob Blumenfield’s July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza is happening from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Enjoy a free concert and 15-minute fireworks display. Local restaurants and arts and crafts vendors will be selling their goods as well. The event is free, and parking fees serve as a donation to the Valley Cultural Foundation.