Out & About: Celebrating July 4th Weekend

It’s almost July 4th weekend! Independence Day, the perfect way to spend time with your loved ones virtually or otherwise. From fireworks to block parties or a sandy day on the beach. Whether you are planning a weekend outing or staying indoors, it’s best to have a plan and we have you covered. Here are some ideas you can borrow to have a fun-filled weekend.

Celebrating July 4th Weekend at Home

Celebrating July 4th Weekend

If you are planning to spend your July 4th Weekend at home, consider the following activities:

Grab a bite @ home

Celebrating July 4th Weekend

Independence Day is the perfect time to cool off with homemade popsicles. If you plan to prepare them for the first time, start with Martha Stewart’s tips for homemade popsicles. For a recipe that everyone will love, add yogurt swirl pops to your menu.

For more fun July 4th recipes to up, your usual spread be sure to also check out Southern Living.

On the go Eats

Celebrating July 4th Weekend

Of all the meals Americans take to mark Independence Day, hot dogs top the list. The 4th of July can never be fun unless hot dogs grace the dining table. The best part about hot dogs is they are easy to make. If you have no time to prepare, we recommend ordering takeout from Star’s Drive-In or Pink’s Hot Dogs.

Celebrating July 4th Weekend Outdoors

Set up a backyard camping environment

Celebrating July 4th Weekend

If you are a lover of nature, a backyard camping experience can make your July 4th weekend worth your time and effort. Assuming you have been booking camping trips in the previous years, it makes perfect sense that you would set up a tent in your backyard. Start with preparing a wonderful meal for your family. Then, get prepared to watch fireworks fill the air while lying in your sleeping bag. 

Create the perfect outdoor movie theater

Celebrating July 4th Weekend

Independence Day is all about patriotism. Now that the summer season is here, it is the ideal time to set up an outdoor movie theater. Choose from films like Miracle, Independence Day, or Dandy. Like any other movie setting, all you need is popcorn, a cozy chair, and your loved ones.

Celebrating July 4th Weekend Around Town

Celebrating July 4th Weekend

Celebrating the July 4th Weekend indoors or outdoors can be fun, particularly if you have your family by your side. It will also please you to know that Los Angeles is fully reopened, and many places are ready to hold events all over the city. So get ready to “Get down on it” with Kool & the Gang at Hollywood Bowl (July 3-4)  along with other events throughout the city!

Weekend Events: June 11-13

Enjoy a screening of fan-favorite films or take in the boys in blue at Dodger Stadium. Make the most of your weekend with our weekend events guide.

Los Angeles

screening

Pride Night at Dodger Stadium

When: June 11, 2021

Where: Dodger Stadium

What: This Friday, LA Pride and the Dodgers team up for Pride Night, featuring drink specials, a special recognition of frontline workers from Los Angeles’ LGBTQ+ community, and a few other surprise guests. After the game fans can stick around for the Friday night fireworks show Grab tickets and get info

‘Hacks’ Virtual Screening

When: June 11, 2021 @ 3:00 pm

Where: Virtually

What: Join KCRW Virtual Cinema and Behind the Screens Event: ‘Hacks’. After the screening of the hit HBO Max series, there will be a special conversation with Madeleine Brand and the cast and crew from the show. You won’t want to miss out and since you can watch from home you don’t have to. 

Cinespia @ the Greek Presents: ‘Beauty and The Beast’

When: June 12, 2021

Where: Cinespia at The Greek Theater

What: Join Cinespia at The Greek Theatre for a picnic on the lawn with DJs, and a movie in the heart of Griffith Park. This tale as old as time is sure to bring joy to your Saturday evening, with Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’.

Westside and Beach Communities

screening

Grand Opening of The Row on Harbor

When: Jun 12, 2021 @ 11:00 AM

Where: The Row on Harbor

What: Join The Row on Harbor for its highly anticipated Grand Opening Extravaganza. Featuring food specials, live music, a beer garden (age 21+), kid activities, and more! Kick-off the Summer fun at this culinary family experience for all senses.

Rooftop Cinema Club Presents: The Sandlot

When: Jun 13, 2021 @ 8:30 PM

Where: The Drive-In at Santa Monica Airport, Santa Monica

What: A PIECE OF PARADISE A HALF BLOCK WIDE AND A WHOLE SUMMER LONG. It’s the summer of 1962, and Scotty Smalls is the new kid in town. A budding ballplayer, Scotty is taken under the wing of baseball prodigy Rodriguez and joins a neighborhood gang of sandlot kids for a series of misadventures. Get your weekend movie fix at The Drive-In!

Montana Avenue Annual Sidewalk Sale

When: June 12, 2021, 10:00 am

Where: Montana Avenue

What: Mark your calendars! This Sunday, the Montana Avenue Annual Sidewalk Sale is back on. Shop along Montana Ave from 6th to 17th Street. Don’t miss great deals on clothing, accessories, beauty, home goods, and gifts for up to 75% off!

 

SFV Valley and Conejo Valley

screening

Electric Dusk Drive-In presents Black Panther

When: Jun 12, 2021@ 8:30 PM

Where: Sears Glendale Parking Lot

What: Enjoy the Valley’s favorite drive-in this weekend Wakanda style with a screening of ‘Black Panther’. Tickets can be purchased early or same-day. Films are screened in the Glendale Sears Parking Lot. 

California Dance Academy presents Spring Showcase

When: June 12, 2021 @ 2:00 PM

Where: Fred Kavli Theatre, Thousand Oaks

What: Join the California Dance Academy for their Spring Showcase. Tickets are available through TicketMaster for their Saturday afternoon performances. The showcase will take place at the Fred Kavli BofA Performing Arts Center.

Angel’s Envy Personalized Bottle “Father’s Day” Event

When: June 12, 2021 @ 2:00 PM

Where: Oak & Iron, Thousand Oaks

What: Join Oak & Iron for a special afternoon celebrating Angel’s Envy – handcrafted, small-batch whiskey produced by Louisville Distilling Company. A “Bourbon” ticket includes access to the event, one personalized engraved bottle of Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon, one Angel’s Envy cocktail, and smoked eats from Bludso’s Bar & Que. Tickets are available to purchase through Eventbrite.

Weekend Events: June 4 – June 6

Enjoy all that the first weekend of June has to offer. Now that we are officially in summer territory, the options are endless, from in-person to at-home virtual fun. Whether you live in Los Angeles, the Westside, or the Valley, we have an event for you!

Los Angeles

Los Angeles, Westside, Valley Weekend Events

First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

When: June 4, 2021 | 6-8 PM

Where: Online

What: The virtual series First Fridays Connected returns with a new format. Tune into lively discussions, DJ sets, and live music performances from wherever you are. This season the museum will explore Los Angeles at the Intersections.

Hike to Yoga LA 2021

When: June 5, 2021 | 8-10 AM

Where: Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area

What: Find your inner Zen with Hike to Yoga LA. Their weekly yoga series will increase individual self-awareness and collective physical health by connecting nature, community, and intentional movement. The event is FREE and beginner-friendly. Advanced registration is required. 

Pride Shining Through

When: June 5, 2021 | 8PM

Where: Online

What: The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles goes virtual for Pride 2021. Join the celebrations online with this streaming, hour-long set and enjoy tunes like “Hallelujah” to “I Wanna Dance with Somebody.”

Westside

Los Angeles, Westside, Valley Weekend Events

Rooftop Cinema Club El Segundo Presents: The Greatest Showman

When: June 4, 2021| 7:30PM

Where: Rooftop Cinema Club El Segundo

What: Join the Rooftop Cinema Club as they turn 10 this June! They’ll be kicking things off with a weekend that celebrates their founder’s journey! This month’s films are Circus-related, starting with the critically acclaimed film “The Greatest Showman.” 

Santa Monica PRIDE Rainbow Road Art Walk

When: June 4, 2021 | 10AM-11:30PM

Where: Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica

What: Enjoy13 incredible one-of-a-kind art installations by LGBTQIA+ artists as a part of Santa Monica’s Pride Month celebrations. The art walk is presented in partnership with Allies in Arts. The event is FREE and open to the public. 

June Bloom Wellness Fair

When: June 6, 2021 | 12 – 5PM

Where: 6781 Warner Ave., Huntington Beach

What: RSVP for June Bloom, the Wellness fair from Peak State Yogas monthly Pop Up. The event features various vendors, from vegan foods to hand-crafted items, clothing, functional art, and more! The event is FREE, with advanced registration required.

Valley

Los Angeles, Westside, Valley Weekend Events

Pickwick Vintage Show

When: June 5, 2021 | 9AM – 5PM

Where: Pickwick Gardens, Burbank 

What: The Pickwick Vintage Show returns this Saturday. Make your way to Pickwick gardens for this fair featuring vintage clothing, jewelry, accessories, and more from over 65 local vendors. Entry will be limited to (2) Hour windows, and reservations are required.

National Trails Day

When: June 5, 2021 | 8AM–12PM

Where: Camarillo Grove Park

What: This day is set aside to recognize all the incredible benefits that trails provide for recreation and exposure to nature. Pleasant Valley Recreation & Park District invites the community to come out to help maintain the hiking trail system at this natural park for all to enjoy. The event will also feature an educational presentation about the area, followed by a guided hike. Advanced registration is required.

Makers Market at Valley Relics Museum Experience

When: June 6, 2021 | 11AM–3PM

Where: Valley Relics Museum, Van Nuys

What: Enjoy a fun-filled day of taking in the relics of the San Fernando Valley Relics Museum and this Sunday’s Open-Air Market. Pursue through artifacts of Pop culture and take home your own hand-crafted finds. Space is limited and advanced registration is required.

The Great LA River CleanUp: Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex

When: June 5, 2021 | 8AM–4PM

Where: Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex, Van Nuys

What: The River needs YOU! This summer, join FoLAR for a series of small, in-person cleanups to prevent waste from polluting LA’s watershed and urban waterways. Together, you’ll make a collective impact to tend to the vibrant urban ecosystems that thrive throughout Los Angeles. All registered volunteers will receive a CleanUp Starter Kit.

Electric Dusk Drive-In Presents: School of Rock

When: June 6, 2021 | 8:20PM–10:20PM

Where: 211 West California Ave., Glendale

What: Everyone’s favorite Valley drive-in returns this weekend for a rockin’ screening of ‘School of Rock’. Tickets are available to purchase early or same-day. 

Weekend Events: May 28-30, 2021

Make the best of your memorial day weekend with our roundup of the best events in town and online. With a trip down memory lane with Motown and Symphonic sounds from the cities best, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From LA to the Valley, this is your weekend events guide

Los Angeles

Immersive Van Gogh

When: May 27, 2021 – Jan 2, 2022

Where: Secret Venue

What: Immerse yourself in the work of one of history’s most famed artists. The Immersive Van Gogh exhibit, aside from being safe to Gogh, is also 100% worth the ticket price. While availability is limited for the immersive experience, you may be able to snag your spot if you happen to be an AMEX cardholder. Don’t miss out on what news outlets are calling “The future of experiential art.”

Motown: The Sound Of Young America

When: Until Feb 28, 2022

Where: The Grammy Museum, South Park

What: Explore the culture-defining history of the famed record label that dives into the history of all things Motown. The decade-spanning exhibit includes stage outfits from the Supremes, the Jackon 5, and Boyz II Men. Enjoy newly added additions like Stevie Wonder’s harmonica; and a station where you can learn the Temptations’ signature dance moves!

Rights and Rituals: The Making of African American Debutante Culture

When: May 26 2021-Feb 27 2022

Where: California African American Museum, USC/Exposition Park

What: The CAAM’s latest collection examines how stereotype-challenging organizations support young Black women. Explore an array of photographs and ephemera at the California African American Museum from the 1890s to the 1960s. 

Westside and Beach Communities

Melissa Meier: Laced/Skins/Masks

When: May 28, 2021

Where: 2525 Michigan Ave, Space A2, Santa Monica, California CA 90404

What: bG Gallery offers a fascinating look at the work of  Brazilian artist Melissa Meier. The internationally multi-hyphenate artist has been recognized for her evocative 3-dimensional installations, found-object sculptures, collages, and photography. Admission is free.

Memorial Day Weekend Concert Live Stream

When: May 30, 2021

Where: Online

What: Join the Santa Monica Symphony in a pre-recorded digital concert live stream on Sunday, May 30 at 2 PM. A Zoom Q&A will follow the concert with the performing artists, moderated by classical KUSC’s Rich Capparela. Registration for the event will close on May 30 at 10:00 am.

Rhythm and Prana Flow – Dance Walk Yoga in Nature

When: May 30, 2021 | 11:00am-2:00pm

Where: Corral Canyon Loop Trail | Malibu, CA 90265

What: Find your zen during this movement meditation journey in the Santa Monica-Malibu Mountains. Rhythm + Flow brings together the power of nature, yoga, and movement meditation in community. Registration for the event will close on Friday, May 28th.

The Valley

Studio City Farmers Market

When: Every Sunday from 8:00am-1:00pm

Where: Studio City

What: Is there anything more perfect than spending your Sunday at the farmers market. Plan your visit to Studio City’s weekly and family-friendly outdoor marketplace. With so many fresh and local produce and craft items, what’s not to love?!

Conejo Valley 2021 Summer Concerts in the Park Series

When: May-September, 2021

Where: CRPD’s Conejo Community Center, Thousand Oaks

What: This summer concert series presented by the Conejo Recreation & Park District makes for a fun and family-friendly way to spend your weekend. The concert series will kick off with a Memorial Day weekend concert, with the next show slated for July 4. Due to the city ordinance on covid-safety for events, capacity will be limited, and advance ticket purchase is required.

Scenes at the Greens: New West Symphony Trio 

When: May 28, 2021

Where: Los Robles Greens, Thousand Oaks

What: The ‘Scenes at the Greens’ concert series is not one to be missed. Taking place outside, you can enjoy live soothing music from world-class artists, all while enjoying the beautiful Thousand Oaks weather. The May 28 show features familiar tangos by Piazzolla, Porgy and Bess by Gershwin, and Russian dance by Tchaikovsky. For more information and to purchase tickets visit Conejo.com.

San Fernando Valley Master Chorale presents American Voices

When: May 28, 2021

Where: LIVE on Facebook & YouTube

What: Don’t miss out on this fantastic virtual concert from the San Fernando Valley Master Chorale. Featuring home-grown locally-sourced melodies, the virtual show will represent musical styles and backgrounds throughout our country’s history. Listen to iconic sounds, from gospel, folk, and bluegrass to contemporary works.

Art in the Park – Summer Concert Kickoff

When: May 29-May 30, 2021

Where: Libbey Park, Ojai

What: After a postponement last year, one Ojai’s favorite summer events, the Ojai art show returns for the 44th year. Walkthrough downtown Ojai’s Libbey Park and enjoy fine art in a stunning setting. Admission is free—Call 805-646-0117 for further information.

Weekend Events: May 21 – 23, 2021

From cinema under the stars to new exhibits and more, check out the events happening this weekend that will surely provide fun for the whole family!

Los Angeles

Dance at Dusk

When: Until July 18
Where: The Music Center, Downtown
What: Break out your dancing shoes and head to DTLA. Live dance returns to the Music Center with a number of outdoor performances. While you won’t be the one hitting the dance floor, you’ll be able to see a series of ticketed ballet, tap, and modern dance performances on stage. The shows will take place in the Jerry Moss Plaza, with free streaming on Sunday evenings. For more information, visit musiccenter.org.

Cinespia Cemetery Screenings

When: Until May 22
Where: Greek Theatre, Griffith Park
What: While the return to L.A.’s favorite cemetery screening has not yet returned to its original form, it will come back to life this weekend for a drive-in. Happening right outside the Greek Theatre, the beloved feature beneath the stars will briefly resurrect for a weekend of fun. Enjoy familiar fixtures like DJs, a concession stand, and tasty meals to go. It may not be as ghoulish but it is sure to be just as enchanting as the Cinespia we know and love.

OFF/ON

When: May 21-May 28, 2021
Where: Hollywood Palladium, Hollywood
What: While it is not the kind of shows we are used to seeing at the Music Venue, the Hollywood Palladium’s current exhibit worth a visit. The free show, titled OFF/ON features neon and mixed media works from over a dozen artists. The exhibit is showcased in the venue’s windows and aims to bring a bit of light into the darkness of the past year through art.

Westside
SOAR: Tropical Butterflies

When: Until November 30
Where: South Coast Botanic Garden, Rancho Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills Estates
What: If you love butterflies and nature, the South Coast Botanic Garden has the perfect exhibit for you. Taking place now through November 20, you can walk through the pavilion, surrounded by fluttering butterflies. The new exhibit will feature tropical butterflies in early spring before transitioning to monarch butterflies in the late summer and early fall. Don’t miss out on this beautiful attraction!

Paws & Pages at Annenberg PetSpace

When: Until June 27
Where: Wallis Annenberg PetSpace
What: Calling all animal lovers! Visit Annenberg PetSpace for a socially distanced storytime, Pet Encounter, and take-home craft. Bring your little one to this fun family-friendly event, where they can build communication skills and self-confidence by reading with adoptable pets or listening to a story. Tickets are $3 and must be purchased in advance.

Self-Care Saturdays

When: Sat, May 22, 2021 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PDT
Where: 3rd Street & Arizona Avenue | Santa Monica, CA 90401
What: Take some YOU time this weekend with Downtown Santa Monica. This weekend’s free workout will be all about Plyojam. PlyoJam is a cardio dance mixed with Plyometrics. Modifications included and no equipment needed. Bring your own yoga mat and come prepared to sweat and have fun at this socially distanced weekend workout.

The Valley

Movies on Location

When: Until July 18
Where: Various Locations
What: Location! Location!! Location!!! Movies on Location is taking you to where some of your favorite films shot their most notable scenes. Don’t miss out on this series of movies in the Valley, screening at the locations and landmarks the fit the film’s theme. This fun and immersive experience will be on until July 18. Chairs will be provided to moviegoers so that all you need is your movie fandom and advanced ticket purchase—Head to tickets.myvalleypass.com for more information.

44th Annual Ojai Art in the Park

When: Memorial Weekend | May 29 and May 30, 2021
Where: Libbey Park, 210 S Signal St, Ojai, CA 93023
What: Ojai Art Center kicks off their 44th annual ‘Art in the Park celebration’ with a Memorial Weekend celebration on May 29 and May 30, 2021. Walkthrough downtown Ojai’s Libbey Park and enjoy fine art in a stunning setting. Admission is free. Call 805-646-0117 for further information.

Electric Dusk: Drive-In Summer Series

When: Until May 30
Where: Glendale
What: While the influx of drive-in shows last year may seem like a new thing, that is not the case for Electric Dusk. The drive-n movie event has been bringing outdoor old-fashioned screenings to LA for years, albeit with new venues on occasion. Currently, you can catch a flick at the old Sears parking garage in Glendale. This weekend’s showings feature flicks like Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Moana, and Jumanji (the original), with a slew of other titles on schedule. Book your tickets in advance!

Scenes at the Greens: New West Symphony Trio

When: May 28, 2021
Where: Los Robles Greens, Thousand Oaks
What: Even though this event is still a week away, we are adding it to this week’s event list so you can get your tickets ahead of time! The ‘Scenes at the Greens’ concert series is not one to be missed. Taking place outside, you can enjoy live soothing music from world-class artists, all while enjoying the beautiful Thousand Oaks weather. The May 28 show features familiar tangos by Piazzolla, Porgy and Bess by Gershwin, and Russian dance by Tchaikovsky. For more information and to purchase tickets visit Conejo.com.

Westlake Village Farmers Market

When: Sunday, May 23, 2021, at 10:00 am
Where: 2797 Agoura Road, Westlake Village
What: Stock up on delicious fresh produce and organic treats at the Westlake Farmers Market. Buy from local vendors and help to support your community. This weekend’s market opens at 10:00 am.

 

LA Eats: Our Favorite Places to Eat this Week

With as many restaurants as there are Bird scooters, we’ve decided to simplify your options of the week by dishing out the best places to grab a bite from power lunches to elegant fare. Read below for our nosh-worthy spots throughout L.A., the Westside, and the Valley of this week’s eat of the week.

Area: Los Angeles

Alta

Location: 5359 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016

Alta is southern cooking done right. Which makes it no surprise that the restaurant received The MICHELIN Plate: Good cooking honor in this year’s Michelin guide for LA. The comfort food and family-sized portions make Alta perfect for a night in or out. From golden-fried black-eyed pea fritters to fried chicken with caramelized sweet potatoes, you’ll want a family-sized portion all to eat all by yourself. 

Sunday Gravy

Location: 1122 Centinela Ave, Inglewood, CA 90302

If you love pasta, as most people do, then you will love Sunday Gravy. The Inglewood spot serves traditional Italian-American pasta dishes with a vintage touch. There is something for everyone to eat and enjoy with choices like fettuccine alfredo, linguini and clams, and spaghetti and meatballs.

Ronan

Location: 7315 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

A modern pizzeria whipping up suburb eats on Melrose, Ronan is a must. The seasonal share plates restaurant owned and operated by Chef Daniel Cutler and his wife, Caitlin, also received The MICHELIN Plate: Good cooking honor. One bit into one of their hand-tossed Neapolitan pizzas, and it’s easy to see why. We recommend the Sweet Cheeks for a honey-drizzled surprise that will no doubt have you coming back to Ronan for more.

Area: Westside/Beach Communities

Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar

Location: 29575 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

Spruzzo serves as a delightful family-friendly restaurant option in Malibu. The inviting Italian eatery offers generous portion sizes and delicious food to eat. Enjoy an evening out on their airy rooftop with stunning views of the ocean that take Al Fresco dining to new heights. 

Fishing with Dynamite

Location: 1148 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

If the name doesn’t pack a punch, the food at Fishing with Dynamite does and in the best possible way. Moreover, as one of the best restaurants in Manhattan Beach, FWD is worth the drive if you’re not local to the area. Enjoy delicious oyster-focused seafood in a trendy setting, with classic and innovative dishes you’ll love. 

Lucky’s Malibu

Location: 3835 Cross Creek Rd Suite #18, Malibu, CA 90265

The popular Montecito spot made its debut in Malibu this year and has quickly become a local favorite. The upscale Malibu steakhouse resides in the former Mr. Chow spot, but you wouldn’t know from its revamped appearance. And the menu? It’s superb! In conclusion, from fried calamari, decadent steaks and chops, sautéed sand dabs, and more, Lucky’s delivers.

Area: SFV, Conejo, Santa Clarita

Skaf’s Lebanese Cuisine

Location: 367 N Chevy Chase Dr, Glendale, CA 91206

If you find yourself in Glendale, make your way over to Skaf’s Lebanese Cuisine. Whether you are searching for lunch to-go or a relaxed dinner setting, Skaf’s can accommodate. From the service to the food, this local eatery offers delicious middle eastern food quickly and seamlessly.

Petit Trois

Location: 13705 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

An expansion of the original french bistro from the Trois Mec team, Petit Trois offers Parisian delicacies in a cozy setting. Enjoy French classics for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Chef Ludo at this Sherman Oaks hot spot. Bite into all-day options like the Brittany Wild Sole Meunière or Big Mec ( a delightful French twist on the Big Mac).

Furn Saj Bakery

Location: (3) Locations in Granada Hills, Calabasas, and Glendora

Serving traditional homemade Lebanese food since 2013, Furn Saj Bakery and Restaurant offers delicious meals and baked goods. Using the finest and freshest natural ingredients, it is easy to see why they’re considered one of the top-rated Mediterranean restaurants in the valley. Above all, whether you’re in search of a quick bite or something more filling, you’ll find no shortage of options to eat at Fun Saj.

Carney’s Express Limited

Location: 12601 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

Are you really an Angeleno if you haven’t been to Carney’s? The fast-food shack has been serving up tasty hamburgers, hot dogs, and fries since 1975 and is a staple in the city of LA. In short, whether you opt to visit the Sunset or Valley train, add this to your stop on your next lunch outing. 

Black Market Liquor Bar

Location: 11915 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604

Black Market Liquor Bar is far more than the name suggests. Certainly, with American eclectic cuisine skillfully navigated by Executive Chef Antonia Lofaso, it is a much-needed upgrade to traditional bar food. Likewise, serving up dinner and brunch in an elevated setting, BMLB offers a refined approach to casual dining. For instance, indulge yourself with their Deviled quail eggs with ahi tuna and dill, for starters. You can do no wrong in entree selections like the Ricotta Gnudi with brown butter or pistachio or their juicy Friend Chicken and fries.

Out & About: Spending the Day at LA’s Botanical Gardens

As we enjoy the last bits of spring before summer, there is no better time than the present to visit one of LA County’s stunning botanical gardens. From Beverly Hills to Arcadia, there is more than likely a garden near you, no matter where you are. We are sharing our favorites from around town so you can enjoy a day amongst nature.

Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens

Location: Pasadena

If you are looking for acres of stunning flora and foliage, look no further than the Huntington. This exquisite jewel in the heart of Pasadena is a must for any true fan of nature. While some regions of the Huntington remain closed, new exhibits like Made in L.A. are welcoming patrons. The lush outdoor landscape is divided into various themes, from a tranquil Japanese garden to a stunning array of roses that surround you with scent. Reservations are required, and tickets are released every other Tuesday at noon. If you are local, we recommend purchasing a member. Tip: The Huntington’s Tier 1 ‘Sustaining’ membership is priced at $159 for two adults and will allow you to visit the gardens as often as you wish, with added perks like member events. 

Descanso Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens

Location: La Cañada Flintridge

Another garden that’s worthy of sitting in LA traffic for is Descanso Gardens. Home to over 600 varieties of camellia, the gardens serve as a beautiful tribute to SoCal horticulture. Upon your visit, you will also be treated to a stunning five acres of roses, along with lilac, orchid, and California native plant areas. The gardens tea house is another must-see, if only for the seasonal cherry blossoms that create an ambiance of color and warmth. Reservations to the garden are required. Tip: The gardens offer a FREE day every first Tuesday of the month. Just make sure you call ahead as the complimentary admission is limited. 

Virginia Robinson Gardens

Location: Beverly Hills

The Virginia Robinson Gardens are a  hidden gem in Beverly Hills. The former home of Virginia Robinson, of the Robinsons-May department store family, now welcomes guests as a museum and gardens owned by the city and open to the public. While the home has not yet returned to conducting tours, you can tour the bountiful landscape with a reservation and ticket purchase. The garden’s docents will lead you through several of Virginia’s scenic outdoor spaces while sharing the history of the estate and its former owner. 

Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Location: Arcadia

The LA County Arboretum serves as both a scenic escape and an educational adventure. From acres of gardens to waterfalls and friendly fish, there is something for everyone and the Arboretum. Keep an eye out for the garden’s peacocks if you want a fun surprise. These beautifully adorned birds have called the Arboretum home since the 1800s.

South Coast Botanical Garden

Location: Rancho Palos Verdes

The South Bay is home to some fantastic coastal views. It is also home to over 87 acres of the beautiful garden landscape. The South Coast Botanical Garden features a mix of California flora from fuchsia to Moreton Bay fig. Now, until November 30, the garden is also home to a stunning butterfly exhibit. Plan your visit and surround yourself with these extraordinary winged insects. The garden also features specialized areas, with reservations required for entry. 

Goat Yoga, The BH Art Show and Jurassic Park | Weekend Events May 14-16

Don’t miss out on this weekend’s best events! It’s a jam-packed week in the city of angels, so we’re sharing the best things to do in L.A., the westside, and the valley. From finding your zen with goats at the Gamble House to the bi-annual BH Art Show. Enjoy all that your community has to offer with these family-friendly activities!

Los Angeles

BH ART SHOW, Goat Yoga, Outdoor Movies
Goat Yoga at Gamble House

When: Until July 10, 2021

Where: Pasadena

What: You’ve probably already heard of the goat yoga craze, well now you can take part in it at the famed Gamble House. Get your zen on while a trip of goat’s throat around during this relaxing series on the front lawn of one of SoCal’s most beautiful homes. Presented by Pasadena’s Arts and Crafts, you’re invited to get in touch with your inner yogi through stretch and practice. Oh, and did we mention you’ll have 15 minutes for petting and pictures with the goats in attendance.

Hildur Guðnadóttir Gallery Talk

When: May 18

Where: Virtual

What: Hildur Guðnadóttir, the Oscar-winning Joker composer, joins Academy Museum curator Jenny He to discuss her work. Join them in conversation about Guðnadóttir’s compositions and her approach to designing the museum’s composer’s inspiration gallery.

The Beverly Hills Art Show Online

When: May 10 – 16, 2021, 24/7

Where: Virtually 

What: The BH Art Show goes virtual this year for the bi-annual event. Enjoy interviews with artists, painting instruction, and more! The virtual online gallery will provide the chance to view artwork from over 200 artists from around the country. As in previous years, the BH Art Show will showcase a selection of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and more. Also, like in previous years, artists will have artwork for purchase as well.

Westside

BH ART SHOW, Goat Yoga, Outdoor Movies
Ai Weiwei: Trace

When: May 15-Aug 1

Where: Skirball Cultural Center

What: Chinese artist Ai Weiwei brings his Alcatraz exhibit “Trace” to the Skirball Cultural Center in this limited engagement. The exhibition displays portraits of activists and prisoners of conscience made from millions of LEGO bricks. Ai Weiwei was inspired to create this installation after being imprisoned in Beijing due to his political activism.

 

Rooftop Cinema Club – Final Dates

When: Until May 31, 2021

Where: Santa Monica and El Segundo

What: Everyone’s favorite outdoor cinema experience has just a few more showings left before summer officially kicks off. The masters of alfresco rooftop movies have a range of flicks that you can catch outdoors on the big screen, from Mean Girls to Grease. Choose between the Santa Monica drive-in and a new rooftop in El Segundo for your weekend movie fix.

 

Mesopotamia: Civilization Begins

When: Until August 16

Where: Getty Villa, Pacific Palisades

What: Take a trip back in time, a few millennia, to be exact, for the Getty Villa’s latest exhibit. View ancient jewelry, sculptures, and cuneiform writing from the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. The objects on loan from the Louvre are broken up into three galleries. Because tickets must be timed for social distancing purposes, be sure to book your spot in advance.

 

The Valley

Street Food Cinema Presents Jurassic Park

When: May 15

Where: King Gillette Ranch, Calabasas

What: Let’s all head to the movies! Enjoy outdoor movie season at the drive-in with Street Food Cinema. The beloved summer series has made some friendly-socially-distanced tweaks for their current schedule. You can bite into this weekends showing with Jurassic Park and their range of delicious food trucks. 

Old Town Newhall Farmers Market

When: May 15, 2021, at 8:30 am

Where: Old Town Newhall Library

What: If you are searching for some of your fresh market favorites, look no further than this weekend’s Old Town Newhall Farmers Market. Specialty food purveyors and California farmers come together each Saturday, rain or shine, to bring you the finest in fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables. At this local event, you’ll also be able to pick up baked goods, flowers, herbs, cheeses, and prepared foods.  The Market offers locals a chance to come face to face with their food source. And the parking… it’s free and plenty.

We Rise 

When: Until May 31

Where: Various locations

What: Don’t miss the  ‘Celebration of Wellbeing’ for May’s Mental Health Awareness Month.  Taking place at various locations throughout the Valley and Los Angeles, you can participate in various activities and information related to mental health. 

David Ruggeri: Call of the Wild Exhibit

When: Until May 31, 2021

Where: San Fernando Valley Arts & Cultural Center

What: ‘Call of the Wild’ and exhibit by artists David Ruggeri is in its last two weeks at the San Fernando Valley Arts & Cultural Center. This installation, SCORE (Southern California Open Regional Exhibitions), celebrates the artistic relationship with flora and fauna in nature. 

Sound Mind Mental Health Music Festival

When: May 20, 2021

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ventura

What: While this event is not taking place until next Thursday, we wanted to give you the heads up so you can reserve your spot. Enjoy music from artists like All Time Low, Fitz, and the Tantrums, lovelytheband, and Charlotte Lawrence for this drive-in concert. Taking place at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, proceeds from the event support the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Ventura.

Home Tips: Indoor Plant Care

A huge trend during the pandemic is buying houseplants! Some of us already had numerous “plant children” while others are just discovering the beauty that is an indoor plant. Indoor plants can elevate the mood and look of any room in the interior of your home along with naturally purifying the air. Check out our basic tips on how to maintain your new indoor houseplants!

MODERATION

Our most crucial tip before jumping into plant parenthood would be– everything in moderation. All plants require water, light, and food, but the trick to success is to practice moderation! Additionally, let’s think about the native climate for the majority of our houseplants. Your goal is to imitate that environment as closely as possible without going overboard.

SOIL

Contrary to popular belief, there is not a one size fits all soil for plants. Most plants do thrive in an organic soil, while orchids are incredibly picky when it comes to soil. Make sure you do research on the most ideal soil specific to your houseplant breed.

WATERING

Most of the time, people are concerned they aren’t watering enough, when in fact they are watering far too much! Unless noted otherwise, most houseplants would prefer being slightly dry than soaking wet. That means a watering schedule of once or twice a week is suitable for most plants, where you water the plant thoroughly but infrequently. It is best to pour water onto the soil at a slow, deliberate pace, until the water starts escaping from the drainage holes of the container. That’s your signal to stop watering!

LIGHTING

Light is just as important as water. All plants need light to carry out their necessary biological processes. It is a process called– photosynthesis. Although all plants need some light to grow, some plants require a lot less than others. Think again of their native habitat and imagine the dark undergrowth where these plants thrive. They receive heavily filtered light but still keep on kicking.

FERTILIZING

Although plants carry out photosynthesis to process the sugars they need to survive, they also need a more direct form of food to carry out growing processes. Providing fertilizers to your houseplants helps ensure they will remain happy and healthy. The food can be delivered via a granule that breaks down over time, or it can be added more directly via a water soluble fertilizer. Granules generally need to be applied once every few months, while water soluble fertilizers should be applied every two weeks or so. Read the directions on a specific fertilizer to see what is recommended.

TEMPERATURE, AIR FLOW, & ROTATING

Aim to keep the plant in a warm environment with some air circulation, and rotate its face. Almost all houseplants need a minimum temperature of 55ºF to survive. Keep plants away from areas of cold drafts in the winter. The warmer it gets for houseplants, the happier they are! Rotate your plant every few days to keep everything in balance.

 

 

Streaming: Movies to Celebrate Pride Month

With protest comes pride. The L.A. Pride Parade and Festival has been revived to express solidarity with the African-American community following the death of George Floyd. Los Angeles Pride had cancelled the parade due to concerns about COVID-19 and a potential lack of social distancing, but now says they will protest June 14 in Hollywood where the first permitted Pride Parade took place. Face coverings, of course, are recommended. In the meantime, you can commemorate the hard-fought progress that has been made from your own home by streaming any of the following films as we recognize LGBTQ Pride Month.

Moonlight

Streaming on: Netflix

This Oscar-winning drama follows a young man named Chiron from his impoverished childhood to adulthood as he grapples with his sexual identity as well as the consequences of poverty and abuse. All the while he strives to escape a life that appears unavoidable. In addition to winning Best Picture, the film’s director, Barry Jenkins, claimed the screenwriting Oscar while Mahershala Ali was named Best Supporting Actor.

Philadelphia

Streaming on: Netflix

Jonathan Demme’s 1993 drama threw a high-wattage spotlight on the AIDS crisis, earning acclaim and $200 million worldwide. In doing so, it brought the plight of the LGBTQ community into the mainstream like no film before it. Tom Hanks won the Oscar for his portrayal of a lawyer fired from his powerhouse law firm because they realized he was HIV-positive. Denzel Washington is the homophobic lawyer who takes on the David v. Goliath case.

Carol

(L-R) CATE BLANCHETT and ROONEY MARA star in CAROL

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

Legendary writer Patricia Highsmith, who penned the psychological thrillers The Talented Mr. Ripley and Strangers on a Train, also authored The Price of Salt in 1952, adapted decades later by filmmaker Todd Haynes. Cate Blanchett stars as a wealthy woman in a grim, loveless marriage who begins an affair with a young shopgirl (Rooney Mara). Lust, love and loss ensue.

Brokeback Mountain

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Mandatory Credit: Photo by Focus/Kobal/REX/Shutterstock (5884718b)

Streaming on: Hulu

Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal star as Wyoming cowboys in the 1960s who fall in love only to discover they can’t ever quit each other — even as the decades wear on and their marriages to Michelle Williams and Anne Hathaway crumble. A trailblazer, even though it is only 15 years old, Ang Lee’s tender, thoughtful drama was nominated for multiple Oscars and won for director and screenplay. Controversially and inexplicably, it wasn’t named Best Picture.

Hedwig and the Angry Inch 

Streaming on: Hulu

John Cameron Mitchell directed, adapted and starred in this poignant 2001 film based on the 1998 stage musical he co-wrote. It follows transgender rock singer Hedwig (Mitchell) on a quest to track down the former lover who stole her music and became a star.

Bound 

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

Before they entered The Matrix, the Wachowski siblings wrote and directed this sultry, noirish thriller about lovers (Jennifer Tilly and Gina Gershon) who conspire to rip off the mob. Twisty, exciting and crammed with style, it rivets with the same sleek, storytelling energy as that aforementioned Keanu Reeves-led science-fiction saga.

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

The movie is named for the bus that drag queen Anthony (Hugo Weaving) uses to transport himself — as well as young drag queen Adam (Guy Pearce) and transsexual Bernadette (Terence Stamp) — across the less-than-welcoming Australian outback for a gig at a casino in a remote town. Released in 1994, the film was a sleeper smash, helping to introduce international audiences to positive LGBTQ characters.

Milk

Streaming on: Hulu

Sean Penn is electrifying as Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to public office in America. In 1977, Milk won a seat on San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors — only to be slain a year later. Wisely, the drama, directed by Gus Van Sant (My Own Private Idaho), does not dwell on the murder, choosing instead to chronicle the years of tumult and tenacity that ultimately led Milk to emerge as a national icon for equality.

Beginners

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

Ewan McGregor stars as a man whose father (Christopher Plummer) comes out during the last year of his life. The revelation strengthens the bond between the men, who were never close, as the son reflects on his own childhood, relationships and his father’s closeted past. Plummer won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. In addition to Plummer and McGregor, Mike Mills’s tender, affecting film also features a talking (with subtitles) Jack Russell terrier.