Category: Los Angeles

Wrap up your week with the leading tech news headlines! We have you covered from Prime Member Perks to iOS 18 updates and more. Check out the major tech and media announcements from the week below!

Apple Expands Default App Options for iPhone Users Globally

Apple has announced that all iPhone users, not just those in the EU, can set default apps for calling and messaging in iOS 18.2. This iOS change initially thought to be exclusive to the EU, was confirmed on Apple’s developer website and spotted in the first iOS 18.2 beta by 9to5Mac. A new settings section allows users worldwide to manage default apps, including browser, email, call filtering, and more. This update is part of Apple’s broader response to EU regulations, which also supported RCS, though features like alternative app stores remain EU-specific. By extending some of these options iOS globally, Apple ensures a more consistent experience across regions.

Amazon Prime Adds Gas Savings to Member Benefits

Amazon Prime members can now save 10 cents per gallon at BP and Amoco stations by linking their Amazon account with BP’s loyalty program, Earnify. This discount is similar to Walmart’s offer through its Walmart Plus program at Exxon stations. Although joining requires sharing some data with BP, you can link your account by providing a phone number, with no need to download the app. Amazon plans to expand its savings to include EV charging by 2025, a move to enhance Prime’s value as subscription costs rise. The addition of perks like free food delivery through Grubhub has helped boost Prime membership, which now includes about 75% of Amazon shoppers.

Lomography Launches Upgraded Lomo’Instant Wide Glass Camera

Lomography has released the Lomo’Instant Wide Glass, featuring a new multi-coated glass 90mm lens, promising sharper images compared to its plastic predecessor. Priced at $279, the new model is a step up from the original $169 plastic version but still faces competition from alternatives like the Nons SL660 and Fujifilm’s Instax Wide 400, which costs $149.95. The Lomo’Instant Wide Glass uses Instax Wide film, is notably bulky at 7.3 inches wide, and includes extras like colored filters and a Splitzer attachment for creative shots. It offers both automatic and manual modes, with focus zones ranging from close-up to infinity and a simple optical viewfinder. Powered by four AA batteries, it retains a nostalgic, lo-fi charm, with the option to use rechargeables for an eco-friendly touch.

Spotify Introduces Custom Cover Art Feature for Playlists

Spotify now offers a “Create cover art” feature for playlists, allowing users to make personalized collages with layered images, effects, and stickers. Available in beta to both free and Premium members in 65 English-speaking markets, Spotify collaborated with renowned artists like Ugly Primo and Cey Adams for the design elements. While users can rotate, resize, and layer images, editing options are limited—images can’t be modified once saved, and drafts aren’t available. This feature differs from YouTube Music’s AI-driven approach, offering a more interactive, hands-on experience with 40 custom stickers. To use it, open a playlist, tap the three dots, and select “Create cover art.”

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy Launch New Tech-Infused Golf League, TGL

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy are set to debut TGL, a high-tech, team-based golf league, with the first match airing on ESPN and ESPN Plus on January 7th. TGL features a stadium setting where teams drive balls into a 3,400-square-foot screen before playing on a dynamic, artificial green that shifts between holes with advanced motorized technology. Each two-hour match involves three players from each team, with six teams competing overall, including Woods’ Jupiter Links Golf Club and McIlroy’s Boston Common Golf. The season kicks off with a matchup between New York Golf Club and The Bay Golf Club. Tickets for in-person events at SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, start at $160, with sales beginning October 28th, and the season concluding in March with a Finals Series.

Spooky season is almost over! Don’t miss out on all the October activities happening locally around town. Check out our weekend round-up of fall-approved fun happening from October 25 through October 27!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 25 – 27 

AFI Fest

When: Until October 27  

Where: Hollywood

What: Catch future box-office hits and discover unique indie gems at the annual AFI Fest in Hollywood. Each day features a curated selection of films screened at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre and the Chinese 6 Theatres. The full schedule is available online, showcasing red-carpet premieres and exclusive screenings with Q&A sessions featuring renowned filmmakers and stars like Tom Hanks, Amy Adams, and Glenn Close. The festival also includes Oscar-worthy international films, documentaries, and shorts, plus a “Luminaries” section highlighting new works from celebrated directors such as Mike Leigh, Julie Delpy, and David Cronenberg.

KCRW Masquerade Ball

When: October 25 

Where: South Park

What: Get your costume ready—L.A.’s beloved public radio station, KCRW, is reviving its legendary Halloween masquerade ball for the first time since 2018. This year, the 21-and-over party takes over the Mayan, featuring DJ sets from fan-favorite on-air hosts like Novena Carmel, SiLVA, and Travis Holcombe, along with special performances by Remi Wolf and Say She She.

Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever

When: October 26 

Where: Hollywood

What: Hollywood Forever Cemetery hosts California’s largest Day of the Dead celebration, featuring vibrant altars, dance rituals, musical performances, and traditional crafts. This year’s theme, “Tonas and Nahuales,” honors indigenous Mesoamerican spiritual guides, with the event returning to an all-day format and staggered admission times. As always, the illuminated altars are stunning after dark, but expect the biggest crowds then.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | October 25 – 27  

“Trick or Drink” Bar Crawl

When: October 26 – October 31 

Where: West Hollywood

What: Explore nine of the Sunset Strip’s top spots in one night with this Halloween bar crawl. Start at the Den on Sunset to pick up your wristband, unlocking special prices and themed drinks at West Hollywood favorites like Andaz, Hotel Ziggy, Skybar, and more. For an extra thrill on October 26 or 31, hop on the free Afterlife Transfer Trolley, a haunted ride between bars.

Cirque du Soleil: Kooza

When: October 19 – December 1 

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: Cirque du Soleil brings its high-flying show KOOZA to the beach, leaving DTLA for Santa Monica. This marks the troupe’s first performance under the big top by the Santa Monica Pier since 2014.

South Coast Botanic Garden’s Dogtoberfest

When: Until October 27 

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes

What: South Coast Botanic Garden’s popular dog-walking hours expand to every weekend in October for the new Dogtoberfest. Along with dog-friendly walking paths, the event features an Oktoberfest-inspired pub crawl for humans, offering free beer samples at four stations (with full pours, pretzels, and bratwurst available for purchase). The fun continues for pups with a “dance pawty,” obstacle course, and a marketplace.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | October 25 – 27

Vegan-Friendly Kids Halloween Party!

When: October 26 

Where: Love Always Sanctuary | 9841 La Tuna Canyon Road Los Angeles, CA 91352

What: Join us for a family-friendly, all-vegan Halloween event benefiting Love Always Sanctuary, in partnership with Plant Based Treaty! Enjoy trick-or-treating with rescued animals, a kids’ costume contest, games, a dance party, and vegan treats. Space is limited, so reserve your spot for a fun, compassionate celebration with goats, donkeys, and more!

House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée

When: Until November 2

Where: Glendale

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

Encino Outdoor Movie Night Presents “ The Nightmare Before Christmas”

When: October 26 

Where: Los Angeles Equestrian Center | 480 Riverside Drive Burbank

What: Get ready for a magical night under the stars with Encino Outdoor Movie Night featuring “The Nightmare Before Christmas”! Bring your chairs and blankets for a fun, family-friendly Halloween movie night at an enclosed field. Gates open at 6pm, with a spirited costume contest at 6:30pm before the movie starts at 7pm. Enjoy your own picnic or grab treats from the food truck on site—don’t forget to register for free tickets to secure your spot!

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | October 25 – 27 

City of Malibu Bu Bash Halloween Carnival

When: October 25, 2pm – 7pm

Where: Malibu Bluffs Park

What: Join the City of Malibu Community Services Department for the Bu Bash Halloween Carnival Spooktacular on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 2 PM to sunset at Malibu Bluffs Park! Designed for kids ages 2-10, the event includes arts and crafts, carnival games, a costume catwalk, bounce houses, food trucks, and a “Trick or Treat Street.” 

Peace Pumpkin Fest in Camarillo

When: October 26, 10am – 3pm

Where: 71 Loma Dr, Camarillo

What: Celebrate the 14th Annual Peace Pumpkin Fest at Peace Lutheran Church, 71 Loma Drive, Camarillo, on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 10 AM to 3 PM. Enjoy free admission, with tickets available for attractions like hay rides, face painting, carnival games, inflatables, a petting zoo, and more. Don’t miss out on family-friendly fun, including tasty hot dogs!

10th Annual Dia de los Muertos Festival at Strathearn Park

When: October 27, 11am – 5pm

Where: Strathearn Historical Park, 137 Strathearn Pl, Simi Valley, CA 93065

What: Join the Simi Valley Historical Society for the 10th Annual Día de los Muertos festival on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 11 AM to 5 PM at Strathearn Historical Park & Museum. Enjoy music, crafts, face painting, food, and traditional altars honoring loved ones. Costumes are encouraged for this family-friendly celebration of remembrance and culture.

October fun is in full swing! From pumpkin fest to local frights, and more, there are plenty of things to do this fall. Check out what’s happening in the neighborhood from October 18 through October 20. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 18 – October 20 

Grand Ave Arts: All Access

When: October 19 

Where: DTLA

What: For one afternoon, Bunker Hill’s institutions will offer free performances, exhibitions, and tours along Grand Avenue. Highlights include a singing workshop at the Colburn School, LA Opera recitals at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, and a Day of the Dead celebration at Grand Park. Participating venues include the Broad, MOCA, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Boo-ze, Bites & Frights

When: October 11 – October 19 

Where: Heritage Square Museum

What: Similar to its Yuletide Cinemaland series, Street Food Cinema is transforming Heritage Square Museum into a spooky, cinematic wonderland for Halloween. Each night, you can enjoy a different double feature, with movie selections like Paranormal Activity and The Ring or X and Pearl. Alongside the films, you’ll have the chance to explore haunted home tours, indulge in adult trick-or-treating, and browse food trucks, a bar, and various market vendors.

Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos

When: October 19 – November 2 

Where: DTLA

What: Grand Park’s two-week display of 20 altars, created by local artists and community organizations, kicks off with Grand Ave Arts: All Access. For the first time, the opening festivities will span two days, starting on October 19 with face painting, live music, and poetry, followed by a festival and inaugural parade on October 20. The celebration concludes with an outdoor film screening on November 2, presented by the GuadaLAjara Film Festival.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | October 18 – October 20 

Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion

When: October 17 – August 2025

Where: The Skirball Museum | Westside 

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

 

Cirque du Soleil: Kooza

When: October 19 – December 1 

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: Cirque du Soleil brings its high-flying show KOOZA to the beach, leaving DTLA for Santa Monica. This marks the troupe’s first performance under the big top by the Santa Monica Pier since 2014.

 

South Coast Botanic Garden’s Dogtoberfest

When: Until October 27 

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes

What: South Coast Botanic Garden’s popular dog-walking hours expand to every weekend in October for the new Dogtoberfest. Along with dog-friendly walking paths, the event features an Oktoberfest-inspired pub crawl for humans, offering free beer samples at four stations (with full pours, pretzels, and bratwurst available for purchase). The fun continues for pups with a “dance pawty,” obstacle course, and a marketplace.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | October 18 – October 20 

Chatsworth Oktoberfest

When: October 19 

Where: Glendale

What: Enjoy a fun-filled day for the whole family at Chatsworth Oktoberfest, featuring a beer tent, kids’ area, vendors, and games. Highlights include live German music by the Big Lucky Band and more festivities throughout the day.

House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée

When: Until November 2

Where: Glendale

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

Goat Yoga

When: October 20 

Where: Los Angeles Equestrian Center | 480 Riverside Drive Burbank

What: Join a relaxing and playful yoga session for all skill levels, led by a certified instructor. Friendly Nigerian Dwarf goats will accompany you, adding a fun challenge to your stretches, balance, and core strength, while bringing plenty of smiles along the way.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | October 18 – October 20 

Fall Harvest Festival at Underwood Farms – Wild West Weekend

When: October 19 

Where: 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark

What: The 27th Annual Fall Harvest Festival returns to Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark from Saturday, September 28 to Thursday, October 31, 2024. The farm will become a sprawling Pumpkin Patch and Fall Harvest experience, complete with games, rides, photo opportunities, live entertainment, themed weekends, bands, and more. Festival hours are from 9am to 6pm daily.

Halloween Fun in Thousand Oaks

When: October 19 

Where: 2525 N. Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oaks

What: The Conejo Recreation & Park District is hosting a Halloween event for young children on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 6:00-9:00pm at the Thousand Oaks Community Center. Highlights include the annual Haunted Trail hike, a costume contest, Trick-or-Treat Street, and a live reptile show. Tickets for the Haunted Trail are $5 and must be purchased in advance, while admission to other activities is free.

Calabasas Pumpkin Festival at De Anza Park

When: October 20, 10am – 5pm

Where: 3701 Lost Hills Road, Calabasas

What: The 2024 Calabasas Pumpkin Festival will take place on Sunday, October 20th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Juan Bautista de Anza Park. Enjoy pumpkin-themed activities like pumpkin painting, a pumpkin patch, professional pumpkin carving, live music, food, and more. Tickets are $10 in advance online and $15 at the gate, with free admission for kids under 24 months.

When it comes to fall fun, we have the perfect weekend batch of things to do! From bites to brews, and frights, we’re rounding up the top local events from around town. Check out what’s happening from October 11 through October 13. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | October 11 – October 13 

Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema

When: October 6 – July 13, 2024

Where: Academy Museum | Museum Row

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

Boo-ze, Bites & Frights

When: October 11 – October 19 

Where: Heritage Square Museum

What: Similar to its Yuletide Cinemaland series, Street Food Cinema is transforming Heritage Square Museum into a spooky, cinematic wonderland for Halloween. Each night, you can enjoy a different double feature, with movie selections like Paranormal Activity and The Ring or X and Pearl. Alongside the films, you’ll have the chance to explore haunted home tours, indulge in adult trick-or-treating, and browse food trucks, a bar, and various market vendors.

Hans Zimmer

When: October 11 

Where: DTLA

What: Hans Zimmer, the renowned composer takes the stage with a full orchestra and soloists, delivering a powerful live performance of his most famous film scores. Expect to hear sweeping medleys from blockbuster favorites like The Lion King, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Dark Knight, and Inception, all brought to life in an unforgettable cinematic concert experience.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | October 11 – October 13 

Off the Hook Seafood Festival

When: October 13 

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: Save the date for the annual oceanside festival at the Santa Monica Pier. This lively event highlights some of the city’s top restaurants and seafood delights, featuring everything from shrimp and sushi to oysters and mussels. Enjoy cocktails, live music, games, and chef demonstrations as part of the celebration.

Celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day

When: October 12 

Where: Getty Museum

What: In celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the Getty will host an afternoon of free events and performances, featuring music, dance, and poetry. The event offers a chance to explore Southern California’s Native American cultures and gain Indigenous perspectives on the native flora found in the museum’s garden.

South Coast Botanic Garden’s Dogtoberfest

When: October 12 – October 27 

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes

What: South Coast Botanic Garden’s popular dog-walking hours expand to every weekend in October for the new Dogtoberfest. Along with dog-friendly walking paths, the event features an Oktoberfest-inspired pub crawl for humans, offering free beer samples at four stations (with full pours, pretzels, and bratwurst available for purchase). The fun continues for pups with a “dance pawty,” obstacle course, and a marketplace.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | October 11 – October 13 

Song in Residence: Tea Bar

When: October 12 – October 19 

Where: Glendale

What: Join Peter Song of Song Tea for an intimate pop-up tea bar experience this weekend in Montrose and ROW DTLA. Enjoy a guided tasting of artisanal loose-leaf teas, with each 50-minute session limited to six guests. Tickets are $50 and include expert insights into tea history.

House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée

When: October 4 – November 2

Where: Glendale

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

Dark Library: Edgar Allan Poe

When: October 12 

Where: 5628 Vineland Ave

What: Prepare for an immersive 75-minute journey through the haunting works of Edgar Allan Poe, where his poems come to life through movement, scent, and a captivating original score. Each poem is paired with a specially crafted cocktail, creating a sensory experience like no other. This chilling performance offers a unique blend of literature, art, and mixology in an unforgettable evening.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | October 11 – October 13 

Fall Harvest Festival at Underwood Farms – Antique Tractor Weekend

When: October 12 

Where: 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark

What: The 27th Annual Fall Harvest Festival returns to Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark from Saturday, September 28 to Thursday, October 31, 2024. The farm will become a sprawling Pumpkin Patch and Fall Harvest experience. Enjoy games, rides, photo opportunities, live entertainment, themed weekends, bands, and more. Festival hours are from 9am to 6pm daily.

Seaside Highland Games in Ventura

When: October 12 

Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds

What: On the weekend of October 12-13, 2024, the Seaside Highland Games bring the vibrant spirit of Scotland to the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Enjoy a festive celebration filled with massed pipe bands, Highland dancing, and traditional Celtic activities. With music, food, shopping, and family-friendly events, there’s something for everyone at this exciting weekend honoring Scottish heritage with a modern twist!

“Voices of Old Conejo” Living History Performances

When: October 13, 7:30pm – 9:00pm

Where: 51 S Ventu Park Rd, Thousand Oaks

What: Join the Stagecoach Inn Museum for a magical evening of time travel as two visitors from 2024 stumble upon an antique lantern and, with a genie’s help, are whisked back in time to explore the rich history of Conejo Valley. Under the stars, you’ll journey through encounters with the ancient Chumash, Hispanic settlers, and notable figures. This enchanting, genie-led experience offers a whimsical glimpse into the past, filled with fascinating characters and stories.