Category: Los Angeles

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Weekend Events: May 13 – May 15

The weekend is here, and so is our round-up of local fun. Check out what’s happening in your neck of the woods. From film to art, food, and more, we have you covered this May 13 through May 15!

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS MAY 13 – MAY 15

RuPaul’s DragCon

When: May 13 – May 15 

Where: South Park

What: RuPaul’s DragCon returns for this annual intersection of culture, couture, and diversity. Make your way to south park for the colossal convention from drag juggernaut RuPaul. Meet queens, pop culture personalities, and previous RuPaul’s Drag Race contestants—plus an appearance by RuPaul.

Getty 25 Festivals

When: May 14 – August 28 

Where: Inglewood

What: In celebration of the Getty Center’s 25th birthday, the city will be treated to a series of free festivals across L.A. On most weekends this summer, the Getty will collaborate with a different local community partner on a two-day art fair filled with music, workshops, and food. This weekend’s festivities kick off in Inglewood!

Cinespia Presents Jurassic Park

When: May 13 – June 4
Where: Chinatown

What: Don’t miss the giant blockbuster hit, Jurassic Park, as it takes over the big screen this weekend. Hosted by Cinespia’s beloved cemetery screening series, screen the film in L.A. State Historic Park.

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS MAY 13 – MAY 15

Sunshine and Noir: 1980s L.A. Horror Marathon

When: May 14 

Where: Santa Monica

What: An ’80s horror marathon with films set in L.A.? Say less and head to the Aero for this frightening series of creature features. Films to be screened include The Live, Society, Slumber Party Massacre, Chopping Mall, Blood Diner, and Angel. The day-long program is part of the LA Phil’s Gen X Festival. 

BeachLife Festival

When: May 13 – May 15 

Where: Redondo Beach

What: BeachLife Festival returns to take over the Redondo Beach coastline this weekend. The rock-focused lineup features Weezer, 311, the Smashing Pumpkins, and Steve Miller Band. In addition, there will also be performances by the Black Pumas, Cold War Kids, Vance Joy, Stone Temple Pilots, Sheryl Crow, and Lord Huron.

Rooftop Cinema Club

When: through July 4 

Where: El Segundo

What: This Friday, catch a screening of ‘Sing 2’, ‘The Goonies’ or ‘10 Things I hate About You’ at El Segundo’s Rooftop Cinema Club series. The masters of alfresco rooftop movies provide the perfect setting for warm May weekend weather and an evening of fun under the stars.

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS MAY 13 – MAY 15

First Annual Brews Brothers Anniversary Beer Festival

When: May 14 

Where: Brews Brothers Brewpub | Burbank

What: The First Annual Brews Brothers Anniversary Beer Festival is coming to Burbank, California, this May 14th, 2022. Unlimited Pours All day!

All-Age Skate Night

When: Every Saturday

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

What: Get your roll on this Saturday at Moonlight Rollerway’s All-age skate night. The Saturday night skate will be for all ages from 8 PM to 11 PM, with tickets required for entry.

Sundays at The Gentle Barn

When: February 27

Where: 15825 Sierra Highway | Santa Clarita

What: Connect with nature this weekend at The Gentle Barn. Stop by on Sunday from 10 am-2 pm to hug the cows, cuddle the turkeys, and enjoy a beautiful day at the barn.

 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS MAY 13 – MAY 15

An Afternoon with George Christie at the E.P. 

When: May 14 

Where: Foster Library in Ventura

What: Ex-Hells Angels president George Christie will visit Ventura’s E.P. Foster Library to deliver a lecture, slide show, and Q&A. For additional information, contact Karen Cruze, Librarian Specialist, at (805) 648-2716.

60th Annual Topanga Banjo-Fiddle Contest and Folk Festival

When: May 15 

Where: Paramount Ranch, Agoura Hills

What: The Topanga Banjo•Fiddle Contest and Folk Festival will be celebrating its 60th Festival, enjoying the distinction as one of the oldest music festivals in the USA. Headlining this year’s TBFCF will be a rare west coast performance of the Grammy-nominated Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, originally from Sevierville, Tennessee.

Music for Ukraine Benefit Concert in Ventura

When: May 15 

Where: 3290 Loma Vista Rd, Ventura  

What: Local music professionals, organized by flutist Caitlin Boruch, have joined together to channel their talent and passion for performing into Music for Ukraine: Benefit Concert Series for Humanitarian Aid, a fundraising concert series where 100% of donations benefit UNICEF’s coordinated response to the crisis in Ukraine.

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Best Breakfast Spots to Check Out | L.A. Eats

Breakfast can be the most important meal of the day. Start your day in the best way possible with our list of the top breakfast spots you should check out. 

LOS ANGELES BREAKFAST SPOTS

The Griddle Café

Location: Hollywood, 1999 N. Sycamore Ave. L.A. CA 90068

This is the place to be if you are looking for the biggest pancakes in the city. Nothing shouts luxury like a pancake that doesn’t fit on your plate, right? It’s not all about size, the recipe is also top-shelf to the point the pancake mix also gets sold to the customers.

Tiago Coffee Bar + Kitchen

Location: 7080 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Thiago Coffee Bar + Kitchen has an amazing interior built for comfort. Besides the high tables and stools, the breakfast spot has booths and tables that embrace minimalism as a style. So you can relax as you enjoy the morning coffee drinks.

Clark Street Diner

Location: 6145 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028

This is the place for you if you want to give yourself a break from the usual breakfast meals that look like are factory-produced. The Clark Street Diner embraces a homey cooking approach. The keen eye for details has transformed the corned beef hash, patty melts, and blueberry pancakes into the best in the city.

WESTSIDE & BEACH COMMUNITIES BREAKFAST SPOTS

Swingers

Location: 8020 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048

The Swingers is a breakfast spot offering classic diner dishes. Here you can enjoy exquisite pancakes, eggs, and chilaquiles. For a beverage, you might want to go for a coffee milkshake; the stronger, the better.

Gjusta

Location: 320 Sunset Ave, Los Angeles 90291

Besides coffee and tea, Gjusta offers you limeade, which gives you a refreshing feeling every morning. It’s a bit unorthodox to have fish or meat for breakfast, but who is to stop you? Plus, they are the top-shelf products, and you are certain you are getting the best.

Clementine

Location: 1751 Ensley Ave, Los Angeles

The breakfast spot has earned its fame from the buttermilk biscuits, which have become something of a signature treat. You can also enjoy a sandwich with melted cheddar, poached egg, and Tennessee country ham. Does it get better than this?

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY BREAKFAST SPOTS

CiCi’s Café

Location: 18912 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana

Here you get to enjoy green tea tiramisu, piña coladas, and s’mores. And if you have a sweet tooth, you will find an array of pancake options to choose from. And what is a breakfast spot without French toast and waffles? To sum it up, it is your complete breakfast spot.

Sweet Butter Kitchen

Location: 13824 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks

At this quaint breakfast spot, you’ll find an array of delicious breakfast options. Bonus, you can stay for lunch or check out the attached market.

Gasolina Café

Location: 21014 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills

The spot serves Spanish-influenced dishes. So expect dishes like jamóns and tortilla españolas. The foods are mildly spicy, which adds to Gasolina Café’s identity.

CONEJO VALLEY BREAKFAST SPOTS

Dong Ting Spring

Location: 520 N Ventu Park Rd Ste. 150, Newbury Park, CA 91320

A great spot if you enjoy Chinese cuisine. The spot offers authenticity and variety. As for the menu choices, you should stick to the Hunanese section if you are unsure of what to start with.

Cafe Sapientia

Location: 706 Lindero Canyon Rd Ste 794, Oak Park, CA 91377

This is a breakfast spot specializing in coffee. So if you pay attention to flavor and texture, you will benefit from the rich exploration of ingredients.

Moqueca Brazilian Restaurant

Location: 1610 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

Moqueca Brazilian Restaurant specializes in seafood stews. The restaurant uses clay pots and native ingredients such as tomatoes, cilantro, urucum, and onions to bring out the Brazilian influence.

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The Best Plants for Your Summer Garden

Now is the perfect time to think about your summer garden and what to plant. A multitude of plants thrive in Southern California, including Mediterranean-type plants and Southwestern plants like succulents. Of course, it is important to choose plants that are ideal for your home’s specific growing conditions as well as plants that you’re able to care for. Some plants are higher maintenance than others. Here, we’ve gathered together a list of dazzling plants that prefer the Southern California climate and can enhance the visual appeal of your landscape and summer garden.

California Poppy

The California poppy is the state flower for a reason; it flourishes in California’s summer gardens with its bright orange tissue-papery petals and vibrant green leaves. California poppies are perennials, so once you plant and care for them, they’ll continue to bloom each year. Easy to care for, California poppies prefer full sun. They require very little water and actually prefer poor, well-draining soils. Rocky, coastal gardens are ideal conditions for these plants.

California Milkweed

If you’re searching for a distinctive plant to feature in a focal point area, consider the California milkweed with its thick, hairy stems and bold pink flower clusters. An added benefit is that these plants attract monarch butterflies as well as other butterfly species. California milkweed prefers a location with full sun, sandy soil, and sparse watering.

Chalk Liveforever

A perennial succulent, chalk liveforevers (chalk dudleya) are ideal for planting where they’re likely to be noticed. These showstoppers form large succulent rosettes that are a pale shade of blue. Once established, they are perfectly content in dry settings and require very little watering. They prefer full sunshine and sandy soils. They’re a popular addition to both coastal gardens and rock gardens.

California Lilac

Attract hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your summer garden by planting a California lilac shrub. A member of the buckthorn family, the California lilac blooms with fragrant blue, pink, or white flowers. Sometimes referred to as mountain lilacs, this evergreen prefers full sun and well-draining soil. To maintain its health and encourage blooming, light annual pruning is recommended.

Lemonade Blueberry Shrub

If you want to add an attractive shrub to your summer garden, opt for the beautiful lemonade berry shrub. This plant is another drought-tolerant plant like those mentioned above. It blooms with lovely pink and white flowers that produce decorative berries. These shrubs are likely to attract butterflies to your summer garden. Their berries are often used to flavor lemonade–hence, their name! This shrub prefers full to partial sun and clay or sandy soil. It may require some light watering during the summer; consider mulching around its base to lock in moisture for the soil. The soil should be well-draining.

Add these plants to your Southern California summer garden to add instant visual appeal to your landscape. Their vibrant hues or interesting growth habits promise to endow your garden with loads of attention-getting charm.

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Weekend Events: May 6-8

Explore all that your local neighborhood has to offer this Friday through Sunday! We’re rounding up all the best fun to be had for a fun May weekend as we head into warmer days and hopefully less Zoom’s.

LOS ANGELES MAY WEEKEND EVENTS

LA County Fair

When: May 5 – May 30

Where: Pomona

What: The LA County Fair returns right in time for warm May weekend weather! Make your way to the Pomona fairgrounds for what has been a local tradition since 1921. While there won’t be much livestock at the former agricultural fair, there will be plenty of fun, rides, performances, and more!

L.A. Underwater

When: Until May 30 

Where: USC/Exposition Park

What: Once upon a time Los Angeles was underwater – 90 million years ago to be exact. Get a close-up look at 40 locally-discovered fossils from when LA was a prehistoric ocean.

Unique LA Market

When: May 7-May 8

Where: Downtown Fashion District

What: The annual Unique market returns to downtown’s Fashion District this May weekend only. Described as the largest made-in-America shopping event in the country, there are a number of unique finds at this one-of-a-kind event. Peruse through clothes, accessories, and art pieces from a number of quality handmade brands. In addition, there will be local products to browse and different designers and artists showcasing their work to meet.

 

WESTSIDE & BEACH COMMUNITIES MAY WEEKEND EVENTS

David Sedaris

When: May 8

Where: Westwood

What: Prodigious satirist David Sedaris grew up believing that the whole world wanted to hear what he had to say. He was right. The rock star of writing is a master scribe and author of more than a dozen collections of essays, short stories, and diary entries. Join him for an evening of conversation and watch him work his self-deprecating comedy live in front of a throng of fans.

Rooftop Cinema Club

When: July 4 

Where: El Segundo

What: This Friday catch a screening of ‘Sing 2’, ‘The Goonies’ or ‘10 Things I hate About You’ at El Segundo’s Rooftop Cinema Club series. The masters of alfresco rooftop movies provide the perfect setting for warm May weekend weather and an evening of fun under the stars.

Flamboyance: A Topiary Menagerie

When: Until July 31 

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills Estates

What: Over 100 topiary animals will be on view at the South Coast Botanic Garden now through July 31. The colorful installation, ‘Flamboyance’ includes 70 pink flamingos filled with begonias, as well as floral recreations of dogs, rabbits, monkeys, butterflies, and dolphins.

 

CONEJO VALLEY MAY WEEKEND EVENTS

Kathleen Madigan 

When: May 6 

Where: B of A Performing Arts Plaza Thousand Oaks

What: Award-winning comic and TV personality Kathleen Madigan will bring her uproarious stand-up show to Thousand Oaks. Madigan’s comedy resume includes 25 appearances on the Tonight Show, along with other late-night shows. In addition, the comedian most recently appeared with JerrySeinfeld on his internet series Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.

CSU Channel Islands Arts Under the Stars Event

When: May 7 

Where: California State University Channel Islands | Camarillo

What: Enjoy CSUCI’s Arts Under the Stars this Friday! The event will have dancing, singing, acting, and a performance by a Ukrainian dance troupe for an evening to remember. “Inertia” is the theme for the 2022 CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s Arts Under the Stars (AUTS) extravaganza.

Mother’s Day Brunch at Reagan Library

When: May 8 

Where: Ronald Reagan Presidential Library  Simi Valley

What: Attend the 15th annual Mother’s Day Brunch at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library this Sunday! The library’s champagne brunch will feature a gourmet meal and a tour of the museum. In addition,  a professional photographer will be available to take your picture to commemorate this Mother’s Day. For more information, please call 805-577-4057.

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY MAY WEEKEND EVENTS

Electric Dusk Drive-In Presents: Dirty Dancing

When: May 7 

Where: Electric Dusk Drive-In | 236 n central ave | Glendale

What: Dance your way over to Electric Dusk Drive-In this weekend for a screening of the cult classic ‘Dirty Dancing. Enjoy a perfect May evening under the stars with a beloved film that all can enjoy.

Mother’s Day Brunch & Mimosas!

When: May 8

Where: Violet Cactus Studio | Burbank

What: Cheers to Mom! Enjoy a delightful brunch and mimosa soiree this Sunday to celebrate Mother’s Day. The event will feature live music, a photo booth, and delicious food.

Mother’s Day Meditation

When: May 8 

Where: Villa Bodhaya | Woodland Hills

What: Even mom deserves an ‘om’ moment! Treat the special lady in your life to a relaxed and rejuvenating meditation and sound healing experience in Woodland Hills. 

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Best Local Ice Cream Shops | L.A. Eats

Whether it is the hottest day of the year or freezing cold, you can still go for that ice cream treat. Lucky for you, there are many spots for an ice-cold treat in Southern California that we’re spotlighting in this week’s blog!

Dear Bella Creamery

Let’s start with Hollywood. The Dear Creamery is a premium ice cream shop steering clear of artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and even artificial colors. In the place of artificial ingredients, the Dear Bella Creamery embraces fresh produce from the farmers’ market. So if you prefer an all-natural experience of flavors such as the Taiwanese Pineapple or Sweet Red Bean, this is the place for you.

Fata Morgana Gelato

You can enjoy the famous Italian gelato from either the West Coast or Beverly Hills. The gelato shop pulls many customers for their iconic stracciatella, although you can swing by and enjoy an array of flavors from their seasonal menu. It is a fantastic choice if you enjoy Italian treats.

Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery

This location is the definition of taking control of your ice cream. Here you get to choose what you want on top of your tasty dessert. You can choose toppings from cookie crumble, puppy chow, or seasonal fruit. There is your reason to come back. The Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, with multiple locations in Southern California, serves ice cream both as dessert and you can have them as a full meal, your choice.

Bumsan Organic Milk Bar

This shop focuses on providing a personalized experience. Flavors such as milk tea, pineapple mango, and matcha produced at the Bumsan Organic Milk Bar are unique flavors that set the shop apart from its competition. And if you fancy an accompaniment, the shop can serve croissants and waffles.

Mashti Malone’s Ice Cream

Located in Westwood and Hollywood is an ice cream shop providing exotic flavors such as Rosewater, Orange Blossom, and Lavender. The flavors are Persian-inspired, using ingredients from other countries such as India and Lebanon. Here you can have fun with the presentations of your sweet treat. For instance, instead of the usual, you can enjoy your treat with waffles rolled in pistachios. Yum!!

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Staycation in Long Beach | Out & About

As one of our nearby coastal cities, Long Beach, is known for its alluring beaches and beautiful attractions. From various water sports to being a short distance from Catalina Island, there’s much to do in LB. Read this guide to help you explore the best of Long Beach.

Where to stay:

The Westin Long Beach

Come to The Westin Long Beach for a staycation and enjoy 5-star comforts. The hotel has a gift shop, outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurants serving different cuisines. You can choose luxury accommodations with calming ocean views or bustling city views. With the Catalina Express just a few minutes away, it’ll be easier to explore Two Harbors for a rustic getaway.

Hyatt Regency Long Beach

Experience luxury at Hyatt Regency Long Beach, the only 4 Diamond Award-winning CA hotel situated on the waterfront in the heart of the city. Amenities include a 6-mile beach, golf courses, whirlpool, fire pit, heated pool, fitness centers, and onsite restaurants. You have everything you need for a fun and memorable staycation.

Things to do:

Aquarium of the Pacific

Explore the beauty of the coral reefs or the intriguing world of sea jellies at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Several exhibits are available to ocean enthusiasts or those who want to learn more about marine life. They have virtual field trips for your little ones, live exhibits, boat adventures, animal encounters, and much more! There’s something for the entire family at the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Long Beach Antique Market

Do you fancy antique items? Visit Long Beach Antique Market and explore over 20 acres of collectibles, antiques, jewelry, decor, and vintage clothing! The antique market is close to Hollywood, which is why it attracts film stars, directors, and producers. If you’re looking for quality pieces of interesting items guaranteed to wow guests, this is the place. You’ll be spoilt for choice at the Long Beach Antique Market!

Where to eat and drink:

The Ordinaire

Want a 17th-18th century tavern experience in Long Beach? Then head to The Ordinaire and order your favorite drinks! The El Guapo made with tequila, lime, mezcal, pineapple, honey, and firewater bitters is a must-try! If you’re having brunch, the Whiskey Sours is the perfect brunch cocktail. And guess what, they even have Scotch-based cocktails! The Ordinaire offers both indoor and outdoor heated seating. Don’t forget to make a reservation if you’re booking for 10 or more of your friends or family!

Parker’s Lighthouse

Whether it’s for a private event or a romantic dinner for two, Parker’s Lighthouse is the place to be! Indulge yourself in different types of wines at their two-story wine cellar. And you can never go wrong with their grilled fresh seafood. With the breathtaking views as a backdrop, you’d never want to leave.

Queensview Steakhouse

Try California’s seafood dishes and delectable wines at the Queensview Steakhouse. Fresh lobster, prime steaks, and grilled fish are a must-try. On top of that, you get to also enjoy romantic views. Queensview Steakhouse is open from Wednesday to Sunday between 5 pm to 9 pm. Live entertainment is also available on Thursdays to Sundays.

Visit Long Beach Today!

Whether you live in Long Beach or just visiting, there is something for everyone in the city! Beach activities, fine dining restaurants, 5-star hotels. You name it, Long Beach’s got it!

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Our Earthquake Preparedness Tips | Home Tips

Earthquakes occur without notice, especially in the earthquake capital of the U.S., California. Since you cannot predict when and where the next major earthquake will hit, you can only prepare in advance to survive it and minimize its impact. Preparing for an earthquake is not a difficult task. Read on for tips on how to organize simple resources to create a safety plan for you and your family.

1. Get Your Earthquake Go-bag

It’s possible to have inadequate access to water, food, electricity, or other essentials after an earthquake. Stock up on disaster supplies that will help you get through for up to 3 days. Store enough water, food, and a first aid kit and manual. Other necessities that may help after an earthquake include a flashlight, portable, battery-powered radio and extra batteries, cash and credit cards, and a tow or rescue rope.

Keep the emergency kit in a convenient place where you spend most of your time so that it is readily accessible in the event of an earthquake. Also, do not forget to change the water and food items in the kit every six months.

2. Know Your Local Emergency Numbers

It is an excellent idea to develop an emergency communication plan. Teach your children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, or fire department and which radio station to tune to for emergency information. Make sure everyone in the family knows the personal phone numbers of a contact person who can also send help.

3. Secure Items That Can Tip in Your Home During an Earthquake

Most deaths and injuries result from heavy objects and collapsing building materials, such as cabinets and heating units. Before an earthquake, take measures to decrease your risk of damage and injury from an earthquake by identifying and securing the following possible home hazards:

  • Breakable items such as bottled foods and glass should be stored in low, closed cabinets with latches.
  • Items such as bookcases should be securely fastened down or attached to the wall.
  • Hanging plants, paintings, or mirrors must be placed away from beds or sitting areas.

4. Educate Yourself and Your Family Members About Earthquakes

Inform yourself and your family about earthquakes through newspapers, television, radio, and the internet. You can also attend meetings and classes at fire stations to learn about safety precautions and lessons from past earthquakes. Learn skills for self-defense, rescue, first aid, emergency alerts, and evacuation. For more information on protecting your property from earthquakes, contact your local emergency management office or the American Red Cross chapter.

5. Practice Disaster Drills

To train yourself for emergencies, get the entire family to practice an earthquake drill. Teach all family members how and when to turn off utilities such as gas, electricity, and water at the main switches or valves. Planning and practicing an earthquake drill will help you and your loved ones understand what to do if you are not with them when an earthquake strikes.

6. Minimize financial hardship by strengthening your property and considering insurance

To fix potential structural defects in your home:

  • Brace overhead light fixtures.
  • Eliminate potential fire risks by repairing defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections.
  • Reinforce the ceiling surrounding the chimney to protect yourself from falling chimney bricks that might penetrate the roof.

Contact your city or county government office for information on structural safety standards and qualified contractors in your area. Additionally, to protect your home investment, consider high-quality earthquake insurance.

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WEEKEND EVENTS | April 29 – May 1

The weekend is here and so is our round-up of local fun! This April 29 through May 1, enjoy a range of activities and events from around town. From comedy festivals to chili cook-offs and more, we have you covered!

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS | April 29 – May 1

Netflix is a Joke: The Festival

When: April 29 – May 8

Where: Various Locations

What: If you are a fan of Netflix’s stand-up specials, you won’t want to miss this weekend’s comedy festival! Netflix is a Joke: The Festival takes to the stage (25 stages to be exact) this weekend through next weekend only. Catch over 13 comedians IRL at this hilarious comedy event.

Hadestown

When: Until May 29 

Where: The Ahmanson

What: The Broadway Tony + Grammy award-winning show ‘Hadestown’ heads to The Ahmanson’ for a limited run. See Anaïs Mitchell’s transporting musical in DTLA for most of May. 

PATH’s Taste of Home

When: April 30

Where: Hollywood

What: Give back this weekend at PATH’s first-ever food fundraising event. Taste of Home kicks off this Saturday as an event to combat homelessness. Held at the Sunset Las Palmas Studios, the event will feature unlimited bites from Broad Street Oyster Co., DTLA Brazilian spot Caboco, Hotville Chicken, and more!

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS | April 29 – May 1

Bergamot Station Arts Center Spring Fling

When: April 30 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Celebrate the joy of spring at this Saturday’s open house event at Santa Monica’s Bergamot Station. Check out artwork at over 20 galleries, and hear directly from artists and curators, and participate in workshops.

Ever Present

When: April 30 

Where: The Getty Center | Westside

What: During the month of April you have a chance to see a range of experimental and ephemeral performances and listening sessions. Roam the grounds as you find sonic and movement-based performances from eight varying artists.

An Evening with Fran Lebowitz

When: April 28 – May 1 

Where: The Broad Stage| Santa Monica

What: An Evening with Fran Lebowitz? Say less. The sharp-witted and hilarious New York writer and comic will be gracing The Broad Stage with her presence this week only, so don’t miss out.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | April 29 – May 1

Family Paint Party

When: May 1 

Where: El Torito | Woodland Hills

What: What could be more fun than a family paint night? Enjoy the Original Paint Nite with local artists Elizabeth Grebler as she walks you step by step to create your own masterpiece. Likewise, experience is not necessary. 

Hart Park BioBlitz for the City Nature Challenge

When: May 1

Where: 24151 Newhall Ave | Santa Clarita

What: Join the City Nature Challenge at Hart Regional Park! Learn how to share your photos on iNaturalist and contribute to biodiversity research.

Thrift Affair LA

When: April 30 

Where: 16350 Mandalay Dr | Sherman Oaks

What: Thrifting fun for the whole family! With 15-20 private sellers, this weekend’s Thrift Affair LA is a must-go and likewise, a must-buy. In addition to a trove of fashion finds, there will also be food, drinks, music, and a children’s play area.

 

CONEJO VALLEY | April 29 – May 1

Simi Valley Street Fair

When: April 30

Where: Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley

What: This one-day community event will offer over 350 vendor booths. Likewise, this will be made up of artists, crafters, businesses, commercial vendors, Simi Valley City services booths, and food vendors. In addition, there will be non-stop entertainment, a beer and wine garden, and a kids’ activity zone (free to kids 12 and under).

Santa Monica Mountains Fund “Picnic for the Park” Fundraiser

When: May 1 

Where: King Gillette Ranch | Calabasas

What: Santa Monica Mountains Fund will host Picnic for the Park – the organization’s first in-person general fundraiser in three years. This celebration of our beautiful local mountains will feature live music, a picnic dinner, a short film screening, a live Q&A, and a silent auction.

45th Annual Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off, Car Show & Craft Brew Fest

When: May 1 

Where: Conejo Creek North Park | Thousand Oaks

What: Enjoy this weekend’s 45th Annual Thousand Oaks Chili Cook-Off, Car Show & Craft Brew Festival! This Sunday, May 1st – is your time to taste and vote for your favorite chili. In addition, this all-day, family-friendly extravaganza will certainly be a memorable event for the entire community.

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Top Ramen Shops Around Town | L.A. Eats

Southern California has a rich history of amazing ramen, with new and legacy ramen shops offering a variety of delectable options. Here are a few restaurants you should visit.

LOS ANGELES

Afuri

Location: 688 Mateo St | Los Angeles, CA 90021

Afuri serves a light but nonetheless a flavorful variety of ramen containing chicken broth, yuzu-tinted seafood, prime toppings, and soba-like noodles prepared on-site. The modest ambiance and cocktails provide a delightful ramen experience.

Le Shrimp

Locaton: 3333 Bristol St | Costa Mesa, CA 92626, United States

For ramen shops, Le Shrimp merges Japanese and Chinese flavors to create a unique style. Here the ramen is made from simmering pork bones and Chinese spices with a fine paste of freshly baked and ground shrimp.

Ramen Hood

Location: 317 South Broadway Street | Los Angeles, CA 90013

Each bowl at Ramen Hood is a rich, creamy soup containing a vegan-friendly medley of scallions, bean sprouts, king oyster mushrooms, bok choy, chili threads, nori, and al dente noodles.

WESTSIDE/BEACH COMMUNITIES

Ramen Nagi

Location: 10250 Santa Monica Blvd Ste. #2850 | Los Angeles, CA 90067

Ramen Nagi serves fabulous tonkotsu ramen with a tastefully seasoned broth. Likewise, you can enjoy your ramen with toppings, and noodles that you can customize to your preferences.

Venice Ramen

Location: 515 Washington Blvd | Marina Del Rey, CA 90292

When it comes to ramen shops, Venice Ramen is the perfect eatery to visit and delight in fine Japanese noodles swimming in a rich, well-balanced broth. Likewise, you can enhance the flavor with a spice bomb or go light with chuka soba.

Moto Ramen

Location: 11172 Washington Blvd | Culver City, CA 90232

Launched by Sarah Kim-Jenkins, and her mom, Chef Yuki Nakamoto, Moto Ramen serves the boldest bowls of ramen. Likewise, you’ll surely enjoy the sesame-infused cold tantanmen. It is served with a velvety-soft egg and ground pork. In addition, you can also opt for a savory tonkotsu with piquant black garlic.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

Ramen Nippon

Location: 6900 Reseda Blvd D | Reseda, CA 91335

Nippon’s noodle base of straight, thick Tokyo-style noodles set it apart with each bite. Likewise, the wavy countryside-style noodles make it one of the more popular ramen shops around town.

Kyushu Ramen

Location: 15355 Sherman Way | Van Nuys, CA 91406

For ramen shops that are equal parts authentic and delicious, visit Kyushu Ramen. In addition to Kyushu’s menu of options, Chanpon Ramen, the restaurant’s signature dish is a must. The ramen dish is a potpourri of noodles, seafood, veggies, and pork.

Gokoku Vegetarian Ramen Shop

Location: 4147 Lankershim Blvd | Studio City, CA 91602

Gokoku is a popular go-to spot for vegans in Studio City looking for ramen shops that don’t compromise on flavor. In addition to the quality of the shop’s ramen, the restaurant’s heavy use of jalapeño and garlic makes the dishes even more delicious!

CONEJO VALLEY

Mon Ramen

Location: 20839 Ventura Blvd | Woodland Hills, CA 91364

Mon Ramen is known for its fresh noodle and fresh broth daily offerings. In addition, patrons unfailingly come back for the restaurant’s Chicken Chachu and Pork Belly.

Taiyo Ramen

Location: 2310 Thousand Oaks Blvd | Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

Visit Taiyo Ramen for a delicious bowl of Tokyo teukemen Ramen or Tonkotsu Ramen bowl. In addition to great ramen dishes can enjoy your meal in Taiyo Ramen’s peaceful outdoor setting.

Kai Ramen Sherman Oaks

Location: 15030 Ventura Blvd #23 | Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

This amazing ramen shop in Sherman Oaks has outlets in West Hollywood, Koreatown, and SGV. Likewise, among its biggest draws is the rich dipping tsukemen broth with thick pork belly slices and a generous amount of spice.

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Weekend Events: April 22 – April 24

Add a dose of fun to your weekend! Enjoy local events happening this April 22 through April 24 around town. From the Festival of Books to the Lombardi Trophy Tour Block Party, we have a range of fun for your to check out and enjoy!!

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS APRIL 22 – APRIL 24

Festival of Books

When: April 23 – April 24

Where: USC/Exposition Park

What: Calling all bibliophiles! The Festival of Books returns to USC for its annual LA-Times curated event. Roam through stalls from booksellers galore and enjoy live readings and panels from the biggest names in literature. 

Taste of the Eastside

When: April 22 – April 24

Where: Various locations

What: Eastside-ish food festival returns in multiple restaurant form for this year’s event. Enjoy delicious bites at qualifying restaurants with signature dishes and unique offerings available for diners. In addition, 25% of proceeds will go to Friends of the LA River and Silver Lake’s Rose Scharlin Cooperative Nursery School.

Lee Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse

When: April 22 – July 3

Where: LACMA | Miracle Mile

What: The late Alexander McQueen’s designs changed the face of fashion. Through July 3, you have a chance to take a look at the designer’s most prolific works of fashion art. LACMA’s latest exhibit showcases the inspiration behind McQueen’s designs along with a display of the designer’s garments. 

 

WESTSIDE & BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS APRIL 22 – APRIL 24

The Big Bounce America

When: April 22 – April 24

Where: Orange County

What: Get your bounce on this weekend for The Big Bounce America! With a giant assortment of bounce houses, this inflatable field of fun is not to be missed! Tickets are available for age-specific slots and are guaranteed to sell out fast.

Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden

When: Until April 24 

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills Estates

What: Take your furry friend on a stroll through South Coast Botanic Gardens this weekend. The dog-friendly series returns to Palos Verdes every third Sunday of the month. Your lovable pet can enjoy 87 acres of nature, while you also get some time outdoors.

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

When: Until May 22 

Where: Geffen Playhouse | Westwood

What: The classic Edward Albee 1962 masterpiece, ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?’ takes to the stage at Geffen Playhouse. Directed by Gordon Greenberg, the cast includes Aimee Carrero as Honey, Calista Flockhart as Martha, Graham Phillips as Nick, and Zachary Quinto as George.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS APRIL 22 – APRIL 24

The Meadow Collective Spring Boutique

When: April 23 

Where: 25660 Oak Meadow Dr | Stevenson Ranch

What: If you haven’t gotten a gift for Mom yet ahead of Mother’s Day, this weekend is your chance. The Meadow Collective invites you to join them for a fun spring event. With over 30 vendors, you’ll find unique gifts while enjoying sweets, drinks, and more!

Chatsworth Nature Preserve Earth Day Open House

When: April 23

Where: Chatsworth Nature Preserve | Chatsworth

What: Celebrate planet Earth in Chatsworth! Join the Chatsworth Nature Preserve for a special earth day celebration this weekend. The preserve is only open to the public one day a year so this event is not one to miss. Event Highlights Include: Opening Ceremony with Native American Blessing, Guided Nature Hikes, Live Animal Exhibitions, & Community Resource Fair.

California’s Finest Barber Battle

When: April 24 

Where: Paul Mitchell The School | Sherman Oaks

What: An exciting FUN-raising event for the whole family! Paul Mitchell the School will host “California’s Finest Barber Battle” (All Ages) this Sunday. Likewise, the barber battle will also include food, vendors, education, raffles, live music, and more! 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS APRIL 22 – APRIL 24

25th Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fishing Derby 

When: April 23 

Where: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area | Santa Barbara

What: After postponing in 2020, the Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fishing Derby returns. This year’s fishing derby will include prize categories for multiple types of fish. In addition, the prize pool dollar amount has increased this year meaning more chances to win!

Vintage Books & Vinyl LP Sale at the Newbury Park Library

When: April 23 

Where: Newbury Park Library | Thousand Oaks

What: If you are a fan of rare books, you won’t want to miss Newbury Park Library’s Vintage Book & Vinyl Sale this weekend. The rare book collection will be available for sale with varied books to choose from dating back to the 20th century. In addition, there will be vinyl’s available crossing all the musical genres from early Beatles to Jascha Heifetz.

Lombardi Trophy Tour Block Party 

When: April 23 

Where: Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza

What: Celebrate the Rams this Saturday! From 12-4 pm locals are invited to the Civic Arts Plaza in Thousand Oaks as the Lombardi Trophy makes its first stop. The ongoing celebration will be touring around town. Likewise, the event includes an opportunity for fans to have their photo taken by a professional photographer with the trophy, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

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