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The last month [aka December] of the year is here and the countdown to 2024 is on. Make the most of this holiday season by exploring all the fun things to do locally. Check out our weekend event round-up for December 1 through December 3.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | December 1 – December 3 

Festival of Carols

When: December 2

Where: DTLA

What: This holiday season, let the professionals handle the singing. Join the Los Angeles Master Chorale for a festive concert featuring your beloved holiday carols at the renowned Walt Disney Concert Hall. Sixty-two singers will deliver classics from various cultures, including timeless favorites like “Silent Night,” “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” and “We Need a Little Christmas,” ensuring a spirited celebration. Adding to the magic, the Disney Hall’s pipe organ will play a part in the enchanting concert, and who knows, Santa might even make a surprise appearance.

Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square

When: Until January 7

Where: Pershing Square

What: In Los Angeles, a city not usually associated with winter festivities, an enchanting transformation occurs when an ice skating rink is set up amidst the towering skyscrapers of Downtown. This urban winter wonderland invites you to glide across the ice at Pershing Square’s open-air holiday rink. Imagine soft snow underfoot as you skate, with the convenience of included skate rentals. Additional amenities like lockers and skating aids are available for a nominal fee, enhancing your festive experience.

L.A. Zoo Lights

When: November 17, 2023 – January 7, 2024 

Where: L.A. Zoo

What: This holiday season, the L.A. Zoo will extend its hours into the evening on most nights through January, presenting a charming twist on its luminous holiday tradition. For its 2023 edition, L.A. Zoo Lights will feature new sculptures and introduce “Winter Wildlands,” an area inspired by animals that thrive in snowy environments.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | December 1 – December 3  

For the Record: Love Actually Live

When: Until December 30 

Where: Beverly Hills

What: Between late November and the conclusion of December, the cherished musical series, For the Record, brings forth a stage production inspired by the globally adored holiday film, Love Actually. Transforming the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills into a festive winter backdrop, the show employs a multimedia set, a live orchestra, and songs from the movie to reenact the intertwining love stories featured in the film.

The Dr. Seuss Experience

When: Until Janaury 31

Where: Santa Monica

What: Immerse yourself in the whimsical universe of Wockets and Truffula Trees at The Dr. Seuss Experience, an interactive adventure inspired by the beloved books of Dr. Seuss. This enchanting experience brings to life the vivid characters and landscapes from classics like The Cat in the Hat and The Lorax. Guests can explore a series of rooms, each offering unique interactions with characters and perfect photo opportunities. At the heart of this pop-up lies a mirror maze, inspired by The Sneetches, providing a captivating challenge. Catch this touring show at Santa Monica Place starting in November 2023 for a magical journey through the world of Dr. Seuss.

Miracle at Neighbors Playa Vista

When: Until December 31

Where: Playa Vista

What: This year, the festive and globally recognized Christmas cocktail bar pop-up is arriving at Neighbors in Playa Vista. Prepare to be dazzled by extravagant decorations and a special themed cocktail menu, served in unique novelty mugs with names like Rudolph’s Replacement and Jingle Balls Nog. These distinctive mugs are also available for purchase as a keepsake. You can find Neighbors at 12751 Millennium Drive, suite 140, ready to welcome you into a world of holiday cheer.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | December 1 – December 3  

Santa Paws Photo Pop-Up at Topanga Village

When: November 26

Where: Topanga Village

What: Dress in your holiday best and join us for our Santa Paws Photo Pop-Up! You and your pup will snap some shots with the man in red and recieve a printed 4×6 copy before being treated to milk and cookies, a goodie bag and an exclusive event offer. In partnership with K9 Natural, Nulo, Open Farm, Primal, Smallbatch, Stella & Chewy’s, The Honest Kitchen, Topanga Village and ZIWI

Shaping Gravity: Abstract Art Beyond the Picture Plane

When: Until March 10 

Where: Glendale

What: Experience the vibrant interpretations of abstraction by seven artists at this complimentary exhibit at the Forest Lawn Museum. Explore diverse artworks ranging from sculptures and paintings to augmented reality pieces and interactive video projections. Featured artists include Jen Stark, Molly Larkey, Shane Guffogg, Michelle Jane Lee, Christine Nguyen, Rema Ghuloum, and Sara Ippolito.

VALLEY RELICS MUSEUM EXPERIENCE

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved Museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | December 1 – December 3  

Oxnard Christmas Parade

When: December 2, 10am – 12pm

Where: 500 South C Street, Oxnard

What: Experience the festive delight of vibrant marching bands, equestrian units, local school groups, and lively floats at the yearly Oxnard Christmas Parade! The parade route spans from A & 9th Streets, heading west on 5th, then north on C Street, culminating at 2nd Street.

Holiday Road

When: November 24 – December 27

Where: Santa Monica Mountains

What: Wander through King Gillette Ranch as it transforms into a luminous wonderland during Holiday Road, where the Santa Monica Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop. This event, brought to you by the creators of Nights of the Jack, features a nearly mile-long walking trail adorned with holiday charm. Experience a mesmerizing display of festive decorations, including a canopy of icicle lights amidst the treetops, a quaint Christmas village, large standalone ornaments, and archways twinkling with lights. While you’re there, don’t miss the food trucks and a holiday-themed bar for an extra touch of seasonal delight.

Wild Lights and Ocean Nights at America’s Teaching Zoo

When: December 1 throug December 3 

Where: 7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark

What: This holiday season, America’s Teaching Zoo transforms into a festive wonderland with its WILD LIGHTS & OCEAN NIGHTS event. Guests are invited to a 45-minute self-guided tour through the zoo, adorned with dynamic lights, interactive experiences, and photo opportunities. Highlights include the ‘Under the Sea’ experience at Rajah’s Retreat, the ‘Illuminated Jungle’ with a ‘Glow in the Dark Garden,’ and a grand 12-foot-tall Holiday Tree near Santa’s Workshop. Be sure to see Ira the Lion under the dazzling ‘Canopy of Lights,’ and don’t miss the chance to meet Santa on December 10th and 17th.

California third quarter housing affordability – The California Association of Realtors released their housing affordability index. It included that single-family detached-home affordability dropped to 15% in the third quarter of 2023, down from 16% in the second quarter and down from  18% one year ago. An income of $221,200 was needed to qualify for the monthly payment of $5,530 on a $843,600 median priced home.  Affordability for a condo or townhome dropped to 23% in the third quarter. An income of $170,400 was needed to qualify for the $4,200 payment to purchase a $650,000 median-price condo or townhome.

Stock markets posted another week of gains. Although there was not much economic news this week, stocks continued their November bounce after a tough October. The only day that markets did not advance was on Thursday after Fed Chairman Powell stated at a press conference that the Fed remained open to further rate increases. Investors felt that Fed comments after last week’s meeting meant that the Fed may be holding rates where they are, the highest levels in 22 years,  to give them time to cool the economy. Stocks bounced back again on Friday. The latest consumer confidence report was released this week. It showed consumer confidence had slipped. That would be good news on the inflation front, as lower consumer confidence could slow consumer spending. Oil prices also continued to drop, which is also good news when looking at inflation. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 34,283.10, up 0.7% from 34,061.32 last week. It is up 3.4% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,415.24, up 1.8% from 4,338.34 last week.  It is up 15% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 13,798.11, up 2.4% from 13,478.28 last week. It is up 31.8% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.61%, up slightly from 4.57% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.73%, down slightly from 4.77% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of November 9, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.50%, up from 7.76% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.81%, up from 7.03% last week. Rates dropped all week. Next week’s rates should be closer to 7.5% on a 30-year fixed if the mortgage market remains where it was on Friday.

Real estate sales figures for October closings will be released next week by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. You can get that data now for your city or zip code at RodeoRe.com.

Happy Veterans day. We thank all Veterans for their service, and their families for their sacrifices. We are eternally grateful to you.

As November kicks into full swing, we are rounding up the best events happening from around town. From film and food festivals to gardening sessions and more, we have you covered. Read this week’s blog for the best local weekend events from November 10 through November 12, 2023.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | November 10 – November 12, 2023

Vulture Festival

When: November 11 – November 12 

Where: Hollywood

What: Explore Q&As, exclusive previews, and script readings at the star-studded pop culture festival hosted by New York Magazine’s Vulture. This year’s event will take place at Nya Studios in Hollywood and feature various exciting events, including a discussion with Weird Al, a conversation with Billy Porter, an acting workshop led by Henry Winkler, a feminist panel with Amber Tamblyn, an art discourse with Sharon Stone and Jerry Saltz, a performance by T.J. Mack (Brian Jordan Alvarez), a live show by Adam Pally, a talk with Cord Jefferson, and a festive holiday presentation by Matt Rogers.

Ultra Cinematheque 70: Hollywood

When: November 11 – November 21

Where: Hollywood

What: The American Cinematheque returns to the newly renovated Egyptian theater in Hollywood for a festival of classic films presented in 70mm format. From November 10 to 21, cinephiles can enjoy a lineup of iconic movies, including Boogie Nights, West Side Story, Spartacus, The Master, The Wild Bunch, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Nope, and Lawrence of Arabia. Exclusive screenings of Playtime and Aliens are available for members.

Bluey x CAMP: An Immersive Adventure

When: November 6, 2023 – January 15, 2024

Where: Century City

What: Bluey, the captivating animated series that has both you and your toddler hooked, is making its whimsical Brisbane living room come alive at the Century Century pop-up. The toy store and activity hub, CAMP, will bring Bluey’s playroom to life, featuring a towering pillow fort and a cardboard box castle. Plus, dive into some of Bluey’s beloved games, like magic asparagus and keepy-uppy.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | November 10 – November 12, 2023

Astra Lumina

When: November 9, 2023 – January 1, 2024

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills Estates

What: Experience the year-end event at South Coast Botanic Garden, where you can take a leisurely walk through a garden adorned with celestial-themed lighting. This one-hour trail in Palos Verdes isn’t Christmas or winter-themed, but it offers nine stunning installations inspired by the cosmos, making it one of the most captivating nighttime botanical garden displays that Los Angeles has to offer at the end of the year.

Selected Shorts on Tour

When: November 11, 2023

Where: Westside

What: The annual short story celebration, part of a public radio series, brings Hollywood actors to the Getty to perform both classic and contemporary literary pieces. Listen to talented actors such as Tony Hale, Judy Greer, Emma Roberts, Randall Park, Ryan O’Connell, Richa Moorjani, Laura Harrier, and others who breathe life into a variety of authors’ written works.

Ice at Santa Monica

When: Until January 15

Where: Santa Monica

What: Just a short distance from the ocean, Ice in downtown Santa Monica introduces a touch of winter to this cozy coastal town. This 8,000-square-foot open-air rink operates daily from November to mid-January, situated at the intersection of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue, a mere 10-minute stroll from the E Line. An hour-long skating slot is priced at $22, inclusive of skate rentals. For those seeking a more upscale experience, there are options to reserve private parties and cabanas.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | November 10 – November 12, 2023

Veggie Gardening and California Native Plants with Sophie Pennes

When: November 11 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation

What: Learn how to harmoniously combine non-native vegetables and fruit trees with a California native garden in this workshop led by Sophie Pennes from Urban Farms LA. The workshop provides valuable insights into achieving a balanced and diverse edible garden alongside native plants. Participants will gain knowledge about growing food in raised beds or containers, hydrozoning, irrigation methods, and the benefits of companion planting with native species.

Shaping Gravity: Abstract Art Beyond the Picture Plane

When: Until March 10 

Where: Glendale

What: Experience the vibrant interpretations of abstraction by seven artists at this complimentary exhibit at the Forest Lawn Museum. Explore diverse artworks ranging from sculptures and paintings to augmented reality pieces and interactive video projections. Featured artists include Jen Stark, Molly Larkey, Shane Guffogg, Michelle Jane Lee, Christine Nguyen, Rema Ghuloum, and Sara Ippolito.

Los Angeles magazine’s The Food Event 2023

When: November 12 

Where: Hummingbird Nest Ranch | Simi Valley

What: Join Los Angeles magazine for The Food Event 2023, their 17th annual culinary extravaganza, hosted at the picturesque Hummingbird Nest Ranch in the Santa Susana Mountains. This gourmet festival offers a diverse array of delectable tastings from some of Los Angeles’ finest restaurants, live cooking demonstrations by acclaimed chefs, craft beer, boutique wine, spirits, and cocktail samplings, along with special experiences presented by sponsors.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | November 10 – November 12, 2023

Veterans Day Ceremony in Oxnard

When: November 11, 11am – 12pm

Where: Plaza Park, 500 S C St, Oxnard

What: Join the City of Oxnard, Disabled American Veterans, Salvation Army, Knights of Columbus, Military Officers Association of America, and Boy Scouts of America for a Veterans Day Ceremony at Plaza Park in Downtown Oxnard, located at 500 South C Street. The event will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 11 a.m. This outdoor ceremony will be conducted adjacent to the Veterans Memorial within Plaza Park. 

Fall Festival at Ojai Raptor Center 

When: November 12, 11am – 3pm

Where: Ojai Raptor Center

What: Join the Ojai Raptor Center at their 2023 Fall Festival on November 12, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with live performances, interactive games, bird walks, and more in Ojai. Admission ranges from $8 to $15, and kids aged 3 and under enter for free.

Conejo Valley Community Concert & Jazz Band Free Concert

When: November 12 

Where: 28545 W Driver Ave, Agoura Hills

What: The City of Agoura Hills Department of Community Services and the City of Westlake Village are pleased to announce the Fall performance of the Conejo Valley Community Concert & Jazz Band. The concert is free to the public.

Economic news this week was quite favorable. On Tuesday, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen announced that the U.S. would need to sell about $75 billion less than expected in bonds to fund the government debt. She also commented that the Treasury Department would issue mostly short-term bonds rather than long term bonds, signaling that the department expected long-term yields to drop, and the government did not want to be obligated to today’s rates for a long term.  On Wednesday the Fed left their key interest rates unchanged for a second straight month. Fed Chairman Powell’s comments were more optimistic about the future of inflationary pressures than they have been. On Thursday ADP, the largest payroll servicer in the world, forecasted that the jobs market slowed in October. Friday, the Bureau of Labor and Statictics released the official report. It showed that the number of new jobs created was ½ of the number of new jobs created in September and that the unemployment rate was rising, and wage growth was slowing. Additionally, there was a report that showed rental rates had dropped, manufacturing had slowed, unit labor costs had dropped, jobless claims increased, and the EU reported that their economy had slowed, and their inflation rate had dropped significantly. Investors looking for signs that the economy was finally slowing finally got data to support that it is.  Both bond yields and mortgage rates dropped significantly which led to the best one-week stock market rally this year. Mortgage rates hit a 23-year high in October when the 30-year mortgage rate hit 8.25%. Recent data has reversed that trend. On Friday, the 30-year mortgage rate was 7.5%. Treasury bond yields also dropped sharply this week. The 10-year treasury bond yield topped 5% just 10 days ago but closed the week at 4.57%.

Job growth cooled in October – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 150,000 new full-time jobs were added in October. That was about ½ of the revised 297,000 created in September.  The unemployment rate increased to 3.9% in October, up from 3.8% in September. Average hourly wages increased 4.1% year-over-year, the smallest year-over-year increase in over a year.

Stock markets surged in their best week of the year – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 34,061.32, up 5.1% from 32,417.59 last week. It is up 2.8% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,338.34, up 5.4% from 4,117.37 last week.  It is up 13% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 13,478.28, up 6.7% from 12,634.01 last week. It is up 28.8% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.57%, down from 4.84% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.77%, down from 5.03% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of November 2, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.76%, up from 7.79% last week. The 15-year fixed was 7.03%, up from 7.03% last week. Rates dropped all week. Next week’s rates should be closer to 7.5% on a 30-year fixed if the mortgage market remains where it was on Friday.

Have a great weekend!

For the discerning homeowner, luxury isn’t simply a matter of aesthetic appeal or expansive spaces. The true essence of luxury lies in the meticulous attention to detail, the quality of craftsmanship, and the preservation of the home’s grandeur over time. As November heralds the approach of colder months, regular maintenance checks become paramount to ensure that the home’s opulence is uncompromised and continues to reflect its original splendor.

Winter-Proofing Your Abode this November

As the adage goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Preparing your abode for the winter months is crucial not only for comfort but also for the longevity and efficiency of various systems within the home.

Heating System Inspection: Ensure that your heating systems, whether traditional or contemporary, are operating at peak efficiency. This may involve cleaning vents, replacing filters, or scheduling professional maintenance checks.

Protection of Outdoor Furniture: The unique and exquisite nature of high-end outdoor furniture demands protection from the elements. Consider weather-resistant covers or, if space permits, storage in a climate-controlled area.

Smart Home System Updates: With technological advancements, it’s prudent to ensure that all smart home systems are updated for winter efficiency. This includes optimizing heating schedules, ensuring security systems are calibrated for shorter days, and ensuring outdoor sensors are clear of fall debris.

Art Care in Colder Months

Art pieces, often central to a luxury home’s decor, are susceptible to the fluctuating conditions of indoor environments during winter.

Temperature Consistency: It’s vital to maintain a stable indoor temperature, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C), to prevent any potential damage to artworks.

Humidity Control: Too much humidity can lead to mold growth, while too little can cause materials to dry out and become brittle. Invest in a high-quality humidifier or dehumidifier and aim to maintain indoor humidity levels between 40-60%.

Avoid Direct Heat: Never position artwork directly above radiators or heating vents. The constant change in temperature can adversely affect the materials, leading to warping or other forms of degradation.

Ensuring Spa and Pool Preparedness this November

Water features, especially luxury pools and spas, are havens of relaxation and deserve special attention as winter approaches.

Outdoor Pool Care: If you’re closing your pool for the winter, ensure all equipment is cleaned and stored appropriately. Likewise, this means you should balance the water chemistry and secure a tight-fitting pool cover to keep out debris.

Indoor Spa Maintenance: For indoor facilities, consider a professional maintenance check. Ensure that water heaters are functioning optimally, inspect for any leaks, and clean or replace filters as necessary.

The grandeur of a luxury home isn’t simply in its initial design and furnishings. It is in its continued elegance and functionality year after year. By committing to regular maintenance checks, homeowners not only uphold the value of their property but also guarantee their comfort. After all, true luxury lies in both beauty and enduring quality.