Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.
Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).
This weekend in L.A. (December 1-3) includes a celebration of Cuba via The Music Center, the L.A. Auto Show, the Lights on Display in Sherman Oaks, a holiday boat parade at the L.A. Harbor, a Swedish Christmas fair, and much more!
Enjoy!

Friday December 1, 2017
1. Cuba: Antes, Ahora / Cuba: Then, Now, a celebration of Cuban music and dance, comes to The Music Center in Downtown L.A. from November 30 to December 3 as part of Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA. The events include a special Cuba-inspired edition of Sleepless, the Music Center’s signature late-night party.
2. The L.A. Auto Show is back for another round of test drives, new car showcases and ‘The Garage” aftermarket hall from December 1-10. Don’t miss Toyota’s “Camry Thrill Ride” experience where guests get to drive with a professional stunt driver through a course complete with evasive maneuvers, donuts, ramp jumps and more, happening at the L.A. Auto Show December 1-3.
3. It’s hard not to make fun of the holidays, laugh about the “most wonderful time of the year” when the Groundlings troupe returns with their beloved Groundlings Holiday Show. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)
4. The 2017 Pomona Harvest Festival returns to Fairplex Expo 4 on December 1-3 with a selection of incredible handmade and embellished art and crafts from hundreds of artisans.
5. See the merriest Christmas light show in the city at City Blessing Church in Walnut during Lights on Miracle Hill: 12 Days of Christmas every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from December 1-24.
6. The Griffith Observatory hosts a monthly forum where some of the most amazing phenomena in the known universe are explained and discussed. It’s called All Space Considered and it takes place on the first Friday of every month. FREE
7. There’s a free holiday party at Greenbar Distillery to celebrate the good things that happened this year and at the same time forget all the bad stuff with a craft cocktail and some joyful entertainment. FREE
8. Head to Figat7th in DTLA to check out Monumental Words an art installation on view November 20, 2017 through February 17, 2018. This Friday you can party with the glowing display of massive word sculptures during a Silent Disco party. FREE
9. Enchanted: Forest of Light is in full swing at Descanso Gardens offering guests a colorful one-mile path walk through 10 distinct light displays at unique points within the garden including the Oak Grove and the Japanese Garden. The event runs until January 6, 2018. Check for discount tickets while supplies. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)
10. Sherman Oaks resident Mike Ziemkowski’s elaborate Christmas themed animatronic characters will return once again with Lights on Display a dazzling light show with a playlist of holiday tunes spun by the beloved DJ Jingles. The show runs every night until January 1, 2018. FREE
11. Something Rotten!, a hilarious new musical comedy tells the story of brothers playwrights overshadowed by the great Will Shakespeare. Follow them as they try to steal the spotlight and end up unexpectedly end up writing the world’s very first musical. The show runs November 21 through December 30. Check for discount tickets while supplies last. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)
12. Take a Downtown Los Angeles foodie walking tour and savor what the bustling neighborhood has to offer. The tour is three hours long, participants will stop at six popular spots to eat and the tour guide will take folks through the history of DTLA. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)
13. The Heart of Robin Hood offers a fresh take on the most infamous of outlaws from writer David Farr (The Night Manager). Playing at The Wallis from November 29 through December 17.
14. The Uptown Village Market happening at Expo Arts Center in Bixby Knolls Long Beach will have local artist selling their goods for the holidays. In addition complimentary refreshments and live entertainment will be on hand.
15. Metro Art presents “L.A. Documentaries at Union Station,” a celebration of the city of Angels through true stories on film. Closing the series is “This is the life” this Friday in the Historic Ticketing Hall. FREE
16. California Market Center, in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles’ Garment District, opens to the public for a big sample sale this Friday (just in time for holiday shopping!)
17. The Red Lion Tavern in Silver Lake is hosting a Krampusnacht celebration this Friday night starting at 8 p.m. If you bring a toy for Toys for Tots or a donation for Miry’s List you’ll get a discount on drink specials throughout the night. Krampus costumes strongly encouraged! FREE
18. “Sanrio Village” at Tanaka Farms is a special seasonal holiday program in Irvine where guests enjoy a festive wagon tour of the 30-acre farm and photo opportunities and with Sanrio characters and Santa himself. Guests can also explore the Holiday Market Stand, offering arts, crafts, and holiday activities for families and children. Happening from November 24 through each weekend until December 17, 2017.
19. Since its the first Friday of the month check out all the cool events happening around town including block parties and art walks for First Fridays.
20. Free admission at: Norton Simon Museum (5 to 8 p.m.), Pasadena Museum of California Art (noon to 5 p.m.) and Long Beach Museum of Art. FREE

Saturday, December 2nd, 2017
21. Five holiday-themed concerts will be performed by the LA Master Chorale at Walt Disney Concert Hall between December 2 and 18. Expect Handel, Bach and more.
22. The Museum of Failure is coming to Los Angeles starting this Saturday at  A+D Architecture and Design Museum in the Arts District. Exhibits will include some of recent history’s biggest commercial flops, including Donald Trump’s board game, the Harley-Davidson Perfume, the Apple Newton, the Betamax, Google Glass, and more.
23. The Unique LA Holiday Shop & Market at California Market Center includes 350 designers, plus sips and snacks, DIY workshops, photo booths and FREE gift wrapping stations. Takes place December 2-3.
24. The Devan Shah Tea Festival  (formerly known as the Los Angeles International Tea Festival) comes to Pasadena Convention Center December 2-3 for one of the nation’s largest tea events, uniting tea enthusiasts and experts for tea-talk and tastings. Be sure to check for discount tickets before you purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)
25. The 23rd Annual Holiday Lamplight Celebration at Heritage Square is this Saturday and Sunday. Get transported to the Victorian Age during this traditional lamp lighting celebration and tour in Montecito Heights’ Heritage Square. Tours begin at 4 p.m. each day.
26. Union Station Holiday Festival is a one-day pop-up artisan marketplace featuring goods from L.A.’s most sought-after artists and artisans. FREE
27. This Saturday NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) present their annual DocuSlate, an entire day dedicated to documentary film screenings. The screenings will take place at the South Park Center on Hill St. starting at 10:30 a.m. and will go until the after-party kicks off at 11 p.m. A $25 all-access pass gets you admission to all screenings plus an open bar.
28. The 55th annual Los Angeles Harbor Holiday Afloat comes to the Los Angeles Harbor for a celebration of the holiday season on the water. FREE
29. This Saturday at noon is the First Annual Hoppy Howlidays Party, a benefit for the Linda Blair Worldheart Foundation at the Yorkshire Square Brewery in Torrance. The Worldheart Foundation focuses on the rescue and welfare of shelter animals, especially commonly overlooked bully breeds. Saturday’s events include a “Snuggle Drive”  (if guests bring a new or gently used towel, blanket or dog bed, they’ll receive a discount on pints), an Opportunity Drawing with prizes plus games and beer and adorable dogs on hand.
30. The Holidayfest on South Lake Ave in Pasadena is this Saturday at noon featuring live music, horse and carriage rides, kid’s craft, giveaways,  a scavenger hunt and more! FREE
31. The Belmont Shore Annual Christmas Parade returns on with 100 floats and a special Grand Marshal, five-time Olympic Medalist Tony Azevedo! Parade starts at 6 p.m. FREE
32. Feastown at Eastown, a new, bimonthly popup night marketplace featuring food vendors and live music, debuted in Hollywood October and now returns for two Saturdays in November with a Thanksgiving-theme. There is no cover to attend. Part of the proceeds from food purchases will go to help locals in need.
33. There is an opening reception for “TOYBOX” this Saturday, December 2 from 7 to 11 p.m. in Gallery 1 at Corey Helford Gallery. The exhibition contains 36 new oil paintings, as well as sculptures and installations from pop-surrealist Ron English. On view through December 30. FREE

Sunday, December 3rd, 2017
34. The Mosaic Art & Craft Fair in Alhambra pops up in the 626 with a day of unique shopping, kids’ art workshops, face painting and the man himself – Santa Claus! Free and open to the public. FREE
35. The SWEA Los Angeles Annual Swedish Christmas Fair come to Torrance’s Ken Miller Recreation Center this Sunday. The event features tons of Swedish food, Swedish shopping, folk dancing, a Santa Lucia pageant and a live choir.
36. This Sunday is the 73rd Annual NELA Christmas Parade. The parade route goes from Ave. 60 to Sycamore Grove Park. Starts at 1 p.m. FREE
37. The L.A. Choral Lab begins its fourth season with CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, a concert of holiday choral music. There will be two performances this Sunday, at 3 and 7 p.m.
38. Visit Downtown San Pedro on Sunday for the 37th Annual Spirit of San Pedro Holiday Parade a celebration of the local community and the holidays. FREE
39. SHOP FOR HER is a one-day pop-up event featuring socially conscious, female founded brands focused on empowering women. Taking place at PLATFORM in Culver City at 11 a.m.
40. Free admission at: Craft and Folk Art Museum (pay what you can) and Museum of Latin American Art. FREE

Schedule by We Like LA.

Snapping a two week losing streak stocks ended the week higher –In a holiday shortened week stocks rose. Tax reform was the focus of investors this week. While it seems likely that some changes will be made to the Senate and House proposals, a significant corporate tax rate reduction seems to be agreed on. It was also revealed that reductions on personal rates that expire, the corporate rate reductions are permanent. Experts are also expecting a 3.8% increase in November and December retail sales, which is just above last years holiday sale increase. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the week at 23,557.99, up from 23,358.24 last week. It’s up 19.2% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,602.42, up from its close last week of 2,578.85. The S&P is up 16.2% YTD. The NASDAQ closed the week at 6,889.16, up from its last week’s close of 6,782.79. It’s up 28% year-to-date.
Bond yields unchanged this week – The 10-year Treasury bond closed the week at 2.34%, unchanged from 2.35% last week. The 30-year treasury yield ended the week at 2.76%, unchanged from 2.78% last week. Mortgage rates follow treasury bond yields so we watch bond yields carefully.
Mortgage Rates unchanged this week – The November 22, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.92%, down slightly from 3.95% last week. The 15-year fixed was 3.32%, almost unchanged from 3.21% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.22%, almost unchanged from 3.21% last week.
Extremely low supply of housing for sale causes a downtick in year-over-year sales in October, and continues to drive prices up – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing single family home sales totaled 431,020 in October on a seasonally annualized rate. That represents a 0.8% increase from September, but a 3.4% decrease from last October’s sales pace. The statewide median price was $546.430, up 6.1% from October 2016. The unsold inventory index dropped to a 3 month supply of homes for sale in October from 3.2 month supply in September. There was a 3.4 month supply of homes for sale in October 2016. Year-over-year there are 11.5% fewer homes for sale this October than last October. Pending home sales (homes that went under contract) also dropped 2.6% from last October. 
Author, 
Syd Leibovitch

This weekend you could go Black Friday shopping for all the hottest, door-busting, steals and deals of the century. You could also enjoy the outdoors and attend a fun event with your family!
Below are a few things you can do this weekend. Enjoy!
Thursday November 23rd, 201722. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
23. Trot along the streets of Downtown L.A. during the annual Turkey Trot Los Angeles. This year, the Turkey Trot is also raising money for local non-profit The Midnight Mission.
24. CorePower Yoga will be holding donation-based classes at all 1o of their L.A. studios on Thanksgiving day. Proceeds from the donation based lass will go to a local charity chosen by each studio.
25. There’s a Long Beach Turkey Trot hosting a 5k and 10k run and walk on Thanksgiving morning.
Friday November 24th, 201726. California Market Center, in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles’ Garment District, opens to the public for a big sample sale this Friday (just in time for holiday shopping!)
27. Asian AF Los Angeles celebrates their one year anniversary show this Friday at Upright Citizens Brigade Sunset. Stand-up by Peter Kim, screening of Cartoon Network’s We Bare Bears, improv by Voltron: The UCB Superteam and more are on the bill.
28. Winter is coming and The Dirty Little Secrets will bring the heat to Harvelle’s in Long Beach with a steamy Game of Thrones Burlesque show. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)
29. The LA Phil presents West Side Story at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Listen to the score performed live while the re-mastered film plays on screen. Happening Friday and Sunday.
30. The Holiday Light Festival Train Ride at Griffith Park is a festive one mile ride on the tracks with tens of thousands of lights to get you in the Holiday spirit. Running now through December 23 and then again from December 26 to December 30.
Saturday November 25th, 201717. Make feline friends at ‘Caturday Night Live!’, a sketch show about cats. Event will be at UCB SUNSET (HOLLYWOOD). Catch a slew of UCB house performers along with NaNa the Cat Lady. Cost: $7
18. Get crafty (aka buy crafts, not building things) for the holidays at Handmade LA. Will take place at the CRAFT & FOLK ART MUSEUM (MID-WILSHIRE). FREESunday November 26th, 201719.  Celebrate brunch and bodies with deviled eggs’ Christmas burlesque show at the BRACK SHOP TAVERN (DOWNTOWN). It’ll feature a menu of modern takes on classic 1960s recipes, a lineup of burlesque dancers performing Christmas-themed acts, and a full bar with wine, beer, and an array of specialty, thematically-appropriate cocktails. Cost: $50-$65
20. Eat like it’s Thanksgiving all over again at Smorgasburg Black Sunday being held at ROW DTLA. Hit up Smorgasburg’s special Black Sunday Market with nearly double the amount of vendors on site. In addition to the holiday photo booth there will be a Land Rover converted into Jamie Oliver’s kitchen to serve up turkey banh mi sandwiches benefiting Food Forward.
Schedule provided by We Like LA & Thrillist. ​

Looking to take cool photos in and of Los Angeles?
Below are some of our most-loved spots in a little video montage put together by We Like LA. The idea is that you’ll give it a watch, get some inspiration, then go out to take a few photos of your own!

As a reminder, you should be fine doing recreational photography at any of the locations mentioned below, but be sure to double-check what fees/permits are required if you’re planning to do professional work.
Hope the list helps!
1. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook (free)
2. Eaton Canyon Falls (free)
3. Venice Canals (free)
4. Santa Monica Pier (free)
5. Hollywood Bowl (free during day)
6. The Bradbury Building (free)
7. The Huntington Library ($$)
8. Echo Park Lake (free)
9. Chinatown Central Plaza (free)
10. Ascot Hills Park (free)
11. Vista Hermosa Park (free)
12. Turnbull Canyon Hiking Trail (free)
13. Kenneth Hahn Recreation Area (free on weekdays, $6 on weekends and holidays for single vehicles)
14. 1st Street Bridge (free)
15. Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve (paid parking)
16. El Matador State Beach (free)
17. The Getty Villa (free admission w/paid parking)
18. The Getty Center (free admission w/paid parking)
19. Walt Disney Concert Hall exterior (free)
20. City Hall Observation Deck (free, only open on weekdays)
21. Grand Park (free)
22. Urban Lights at LACMA (free) – Note that the museum offers free admission on second Tuesdays and after 3 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays.
23. Descanso Gardens ($$)
24. Historic Core of Downtown Los Angeles (free)
25. Griffith Observatory (free)
Article courtesy of We Like LA.

Stocks end week lower on tax reform uncertainty and falling oil prices –  Stocks fell for the second straight week. There was unusual volatility this week. The Dow dropped 168 points in the first three days of the week as it looked like tax reform was losing some support in Congress. On Thursday, the House passed their version and the Dow gained almost 200 points. On Friday, a few Republican Senators said they may not support the Senate version and The Dow dropped 100 points to end the week down for the second straight week.  Meanwhile, both the Senate and the House removed changes to how they would be taxing stock options for tech firms, after industry leaders argued that higher taxes on options would limit their ability to attract talent. This helped the tech heavy NASDAQ, which closed up for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the week at 23,358.24, down from 23,422.22 last week. It’s up 18.2% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,578.85, down slightly from its close last week of 2,582.30. The S&P is up 15.2% YTD. The NASDAQ closed the week at 6,782.79, up from its last week’s close of 6,750.94.  It’s up 26% year-to-date.
Bond yields drop this week – The 10-year Treasury bond closed the week at 2.35%, down from 2.40% last week. The 30-year treasury yield ended the week at 2.78%, down from 2.88% last week. Mortgage rates follow treasury bond yields so we watch bond yields carefully.
Mortgage Rates up slightly this week – The November 16, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.95%, up from 3.90% last week. The 15-year fixed was 3.31%, up from 3.24% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.21%, almost unchanged from 3.22% last week.
California jobless rate falls to 4.9% – California posted strong job gains in October, adding 31,700 net new non-farm jobs. That brought the state’s unemployment rate down from 5.1% in September to 4.9% in October. Wage growth slowed as hourly wages were 3.2% higher in October from one year earlier, down from September’s wage growth of 3.8%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. California is outpacing the U.S. as the national rate of wage growth was 2.4% in October.
New housing starts rebounds in October – The Commerce Department reported that new housing starts jumped 13.7% in October. That was the highest level since October 2016.September’s new home starts pace was down considerably because of a very steep drop in new construction in hurricane damaged areas. Because September’s figures were depressed, a 13.7% month-over-month increase is not as exciting as it sounds. Yet it was the highest number of permits pulled for new home construction since October 2016.
The housing sales and price report should be released next week by The California Association of Realtors.
Author,
Syd Leibovitch

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.
Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).
This weekend in L.A. (November 17 – November 19) includes, Malibu ArtWalk Festival, LA Zoo Lights, a Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens, the Great Los Angeles Walk, and MUCH more.
Enjoy!


Friday November 17th, 2017

1. The Malibu ArtWalk Festival returns for the 46th year in a row to Cross Creek. Taking place November 17-19 this annual community festival will feature local artists from the region displaying their art and guiding guests through their artistic processes.

2. One of L.A.’s most magical holiday traditions, LA Zoo Lights returns November 17 through January 7 with thousands upon thousands of LED lights glowing up the zoo. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

3. Get ready for another season of ice-skating in Downtown Los Angeles when the Bai Holiday Ice Rink returns to Pershing Square from November 16 through January 15, 2018.

4. Getty Villa Theater Lab Presents Aeschylus’s ‘The Suppliant Women’, to show at select times from Nov. 17-19.

5. California Market Center, in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles’ Garment District, opens to the pubic for a big sample sale this Friday (just in time for holiday shopping!).

6. UCB Dragrace is UCB’s version of RuPaul’s Drag Race! This season they’ll be introducing KINGS VS QUEENS the ultimate drag battle, hosted By Mano Agapion, Oscar Montoya, and Nicole Byer

7. Discover Los Angeles technology and innovation, participate in a hiring fair & hear from inspiring speakers at Techweek LA, Nov. 13-17.

8. Spamilton a parody that celebrates and roasts the Broadway musical will make its West Coast premiere at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City. Happening all weekend. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 

9. Get into the winter spirit when ICE at Santa Monica returns with a 8,000 square foot ice skating rink. Running November 1 through January 5.

10. There’s going to be a midnight screening of Pulp Fiction at the New Beverly Theatre this Friday night.

11. Head to Grand Central Market for Fridays with dublab. Stroll the many food stalls and order up something tasty to nosh on while a killer soundtrack of DJ-spun tunes to play from 7 to 10 p.m. This is a free event (but not the food obviously!)

12. There’s a Night Market at Runway in Playa Vista. Check off your gift list and take a break at the beer garden with pours of Three Weavers and Indie Brewing. In addition there will be live music by the California Feetwarmers and bites from food trucks.

13. Check out free music this Friday at Union station as Metro Art Presents: Phil Ranelin Jazz Ensemble. FREE
​
14. The Groundlings: The Completely Different Late Show is a hilarious improv show by the cast of the Groundlings’ Main Company. Audience shout suggestions throughout the night for improvisational scenes performed by some of the best in the business. It’s also a testing ground for brand new material for the Groundlings’ main show. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

15. Enjoy live gypsy jazz and swing tunes at Villains Tavern with a performance by The Vignes Rooftop Revival. Starts at 10 p.m. FREE

16. There’s a Great Pumpkin Hunt happening at the South Coast Botanic Garden from October 1 through November 30 everyday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Highlights include an imaginative scavenger hunt, light hiking, a pumpkin shop and access to the gorgeous 87-acre grounds. Great for families. Halloween costumes are welcome.

Saturday November 18th, 2017
17. Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair returns to Pasadena November 18-19. Check out over 200 handmade makers ranging in products from home décor, food and houseware, to fashion accessories and body products. FREE

18. Trek the streets of Los Angeles from downtown L.A. to the Westside during the 12th Annual Great Los Angeles Walk. Join other Angelenos on this free tour and see the sights and walk the streets of our city.

19. Noon to Midnight comes to Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles this Saturday for 12 hours of pop-up performances featuring L.A.’s top new-music ensembles.

20. There’s a Mike Kelley symposium at the REDCAT focusing on Kelley’s last major project titled Kandors. This event will feature noted art scholars, curators, and artists.

21. Spaceland & Mercy for Animals present Circle V, a vegan music festival celebrating animal rights, at the Regent Theater in Downtown L.A. The festival will feature live music from artists like Moby and Reggie Watts along side speaker panels and a vegan vendor village. Ticket options range from $35–$150.

22. Downtown Burbank is hosting the 2nd Annual Winter Wine Walk & Street Fair. Walk through over 30 local shops and stores for wine and beer tastings, as well as small treats. The evening also includes local shopping, live musical performances and a magical snowfall moment. Participation in the Wine Walk is $45 while the street fair is free.

23. The BBQ & Beer Festival takes over Pearl’s BBQ in the Arts District for a day of music, barbecue and beer. Enjoy a plate of brisket, ribs, and chicken with ice-cold beers. Some vendors include Pearl’s BBQ, Taste of Pace Daddy’s Fried Chicken and Mad Miller BBQ. General admission tickets cost $17 and VIP tickets are $45 which includes your first drink free, samples of spirits and snacks, a Pearl’s BBQ tote bag, and a VIP area.

24. Stay cool while learning the Winter Olympics sport of curling! Beginner and pros are all welcome. The lesson will feature an excellent introduction to the basics, including sliding stones, sweeping, and game strategy. All equipment is provided. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

25. Feastown at Eastown, a new, bimonthly popup night marketplace featuring food vendors and live music, debuted in Hollywood October and now returns for two Saturdays in November with a Thanksgiving-theme. There is no cover to attend. Part of the proceeds from food purchases will go to help locals in need.

26. Catch a one of a kind reenactment of War of the Worlds at Walt Disney Concert Hall this Saturday. The story draws inspiration from Orson Welles’ infamous 1938 radio broadcast.

27. The 32nd Annual Elves’ Faire returns to the Pasadena Waldorf School in Altadena for an afternoon of shopping, crafting, dining, and playing medieval-style contests and games.

28. The 5th Annual Stouts N Staches Brew Fest returns to Venice Beach this Saturday to celebrate Movember with a mustache-themed block party. Guests will enjoy food and craft beer specials, live music, beer and whiskey tastings, complimentary beard and stache trims, men’s health screenings and more.

Sunday November 19th, 2017

29. Enchanted: Forest of Light returns to Descanso Gardens this Sunday offering guests a colorful one-mile path walk through 10 distinct light displays at unique points within Descanso Garden including the Oak Grove and the Japanese Garden. Be sure to grab discount tickets while supplies are still available! DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)

30. See E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial at Royce Hall when the American Youth Symphony performs John Williams award winning score live as the film plays on the big screen. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 

31. Get ready to dance all day long and celebrate the art of mariachi when the 27th Annual Mariachi Festival returns to Boyle Heights at historic Mariachi Plaza Station. FREE

32. See the Wende Museum’s new Culver City campus for free during their community open house this Sunday. The museum focuses on the history of the Cold War and currently have a new exhibit titled Cold War Spaces. FREE

33. The Pasadena Doo Dah Parade returns to celebrate 40 years of irreverent frolicking on the streets of Pasadena. The parade begins in East Pasadena along Colorado Boulevard, the original Route 66.

34. The East Los Angeles Christmas Parade & Festival comes to Whittier Blvd for an afternoon-long celebration with Christmas flair. Check out the amazing floats, marching bands, equestrian units, and loads more.

35. Comedy at The Friend is a weekly free show in Silverlake. This Sunday the lineup includes Rhea Butcher and Jak Knight. FREE

36. The Hammer hosts a Family Flicks series this Sunday with a screening of 1995 film Babe. FREE

37. Free admission at: Craft and Folk Art Museum (pay what you can) and Museum of Latin American Art
​
Schedule courtesy of We Like LA. ​

Stocks end week lower after eight straight weeks of gains – Stocks dropped after the senate released their version of tax reform, partly because the corporate tax cut would not take effect until 2019. Companies had hoped that the cut in the corporate tax rate from 35% to 20% would take effect this year, as tax rates are usually retroactive at the beginning of the year that they are passed. There was also more uncertainty this week about whether either version would have enough votes to pass. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the week at 23,422.22, down from 23,539.19 last week. It’s up 18.5% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,582.30, almost unchanged from its close last week of 2,587.84. The S&P is up 15.3% YTD. The NASDAQ closed the week at 6,750.94, down from its last week’s close of 6,764.44. It’s up 25.4% year-to-date. 
Bond yields rise this week – The 10-year Treasury bond closed the week at 2.40, up from 2.34% last week. The 30-year treasury yield ended the week at 2.88%, up from 2.82% last week. Mortgage rates follow treasury bond yields so we watch bond yields carefully.
Mortgage Rates down slightly this week – The November 9, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.90%, slightly lower than 3.94% last week. The 15-year fixed was 3.24%, slightly down from 3.27% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.22%, also almost unchanged from 3.23% last week.
Real Estate Organizations oppose both the senate and house tax plans – According to The National Association of Realtors, The California Association of Realtors, state’s Realtor associations, The National Association of Home Builders and other real estate groups, the proposed bills will actually increase taxes for middle class homeowners. Real estate groups oppose the plan because it cuts the mortgage interest deduction in half from the interest paid on a maximum of a $1,000,000 loan to the interest paid on a maximum of a $500,000 loan. It also eliminates deductions of state and local taxes. This would include property tax. The house bill would allow a maximum of $10,000 deducted a year in property tax, while the senate bill would allow no deduction for property tax. State and local taxes, which include property taxes, have been deductible since congress passed a federal income tax in 1909, which was implemented in 1913. This is a very controversial portion of tax reform. Neither plan has passed. It is possible that these changes may not be in the final bill. 
Author, 
Syd Leibovitch

Los Angeles provides no limit of things to do, some awesome and some not so awesome.
Since time is precious in this fast paced city we curate a list of things to do in Los Angeles for every weekend that’ll help you decide how you want to spend your limited supply of attention (not to mention dollars!).
This weekend in L.A. (November 10 – November 12) includes AFI Fest, Inglewood Open Studios, Designercon, the L.A. Turkey Trot, the annual Christmas Tree lighting at The Grove, and MUCH more.
Enjoy!
Friday November 3rd, 2017
1. Cole’s in Downtown L.A. turns 109 this year and to celebrate they’re hosting an anniversary gala dinner prepared by chefs Neal Fraser of Redbird and Christian Page of Cassell’s Hamburgers.
2. Check out Lost and Found LA, a pop-up art installation in La Tuna Canyon from the artists who brought you the Griffith Park Teahouse. The work adorns the canyon’s charred trees with a natural gold material, illuminating the damage and embracing the flaws left by the fires, which burned through over 7,000 acres through the Verdugo Mountains this past September. On display through November 12. FREE
3. The annual AFI FEST returns to Hollywood November 9-16 for an eight-day run featuring over 100 films, including three world premieres and four additional highly anticipated films.
4. Think you know everything about the Cape Crusader? Head to Black Cat Comics for Batman Trivia Night. The winner takes home $100 and bragging rights. Free beer provided by Mt. Lowe Brewing Co.
5. Join the Latin American Cinemateca of L.A. and The Consulate General Mexico of L.A. for the 30th Anniversary of Cheech Marin’s Born in East LA, as well as a panel discussion in response to the current immigration policies and threats. FREE
6. The A.L.C. Sample Sale will take place in Santa Monica on November 10-11.
7. Night Dive at the Aquarium of the Pacific is an 18-and-over event featuring DJ sets, art, lectures, food trucks, bars and more.
8. Hangout with Bill Nye and filmmakers David Alvarado and Jason Sussberg as they screen a new documentary about everyones favorite science man. A Q and A will follow the screening.
9. Impro Theatre presents L.A. Noir UnScripted complete with a jazz trio and actors improvising score on the spot. Happening at The Edye at The Broad Stage. Happening all weekend. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 
10. The Groundlings: The Completely Different Late Show is a hilarious improv show by the cast of the Groundlings’ Main Company. Audience shout suggestions throughout the night for improvisational scenes performed by some of the best in the business. It’s also a testing ground for brand new material for the Groundlings’ main show. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar)
11. There’s a Justice League fan art show happening at The Perky Nerd in Burbank this Friday.
12. There’s a one day Halston and Haute Hippie sample sale this Friday. Women’s ready-to-wear, evening-wear, handbags and footwear will be 70% off retail prices.
13. The 9th Annual Montebello Taste of the Town will showcase the Montebello food scene this Friday with unlimited food and drink samples.
14. LACMA’s award winning Department of Music Program provides hundreds of free concerts and musical events every year for Angelenos to enjoy. This Friday their jazz series continues at the BP Grand Entrance.
Saturday November 4th, 2017
15. The American Indian Arts Marketplace comes to The Autry Museum from November 11-12 for the largest Native arts fair in Southern California, featuring 200 Native American artists representing 40+ tribes.
16. DesignerCon, the annual art and design convention is back for another year of collectible toys, designer goods, panels & live art at the Pasadena Convention Center! Takes place this Saturday and Sunday.
17. The 11th annual Inglewood Open Studios returns November 11-12 to showcase the professional artist studios and art galleries that constitute the burgeoning Inglewood art community. Explore studio spaces and works through a free self-guided tour. FREE
18. The Chicano International Film Festival returns to Los Angeles this Saturday! Now in its 21st year, the festival will take place on November 11 at Plaza de la Raza Cultural Center in East LA & will give insight into Chicanx culture, lifestyle & expression. FREE
19. Looking for a little free comedy this weekend in NELA? The Frogtown Show is a free monthly comedy show that takes place at The Left Bank off Fletcher Dr. Beer and tacos will be available as well! FREE
20. Smog City and Lovesome Chocolates will co-host a beer + chocolate pairing this Saturday at 11 a.m at SteelCraft in Long Beach. The featured flight includes four distinct pairings. Available for purchase until supplies run out.
21. The 2nd Annual Veteran’s Day Music Festival will take place at the Pacific Battleship Center on the Battleship USS Iowa. Admission is free! FREE
22. The Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo is hosting Free Family Day on November 11 featuring dance classes, music, origami making & more! FREE
23. The Tropicália Music & Taco Festival comes to The Queen Mary for a day of unlimited taco samples and live music.
24. Check out Hollywood Forever Cemetery’s renowned Historic Walking Tour this Saturday. The popular, fact-filled tour are led by film historian Karie Bible.
Sunday November 5th, 2017
25. Get ready to trot for some vegan treats! The The L.A. Tofurky Trot & Vegan Food Fest in Griffith Park invites family, friends and canine companions participate in this annual run/walk.
26. War of the Worlds is a new opera at Walt Disney Concert Hall with performances from November 12-18. The story draws inspiration from Orson Welles’ infamous 1938 radio broadcast.
27. Stop by the Patchwork Show in Long Beach for some holiday shopping and fun! Highlights include local artisans, D.I.Y. workshops, music, food vendors and more. Admission is free. FREE
28. The Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce is putting on the very first Sherman Oaks Art Walk this Sunday. Attractions include dog photo booths, food trucks, a meet & greet with the utility box artists, a raffle, and more. Free parking available at the Sherman Oaks Galleria. FREE
29. Want to go back to the future this weekend? Party like it’s 1955 in Hill Valley at the Enchantment Under the Sea Dance, taking place this Sunday at Resident DTLA. Advance tickets are $12, day of is $15.
30. The Theater at Ace Hotel will host the Los Angeles premiere screening of Major Lazer: Give Me Future this Sunday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25. This will be the only theatrical showing of the film in L.A.
31. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… at The Grove! Celebrate the Joy – A California Christmas at The Grove kicks off the holiday season with an annual tree lighting ceremony and special musical performances. FREE
32. Free admission at: Museum of Latin American Art and Craft and Folk Art Museum (pay what you can)
Schedule provided by We Like LA. ​

Not content to flood city streets with self-driving vehicles, tech company Uber is now looking to the sky as well. The company announced Wednesday that it will partner with NASA on a new flying taxi service, and that Los Angeles will be one of the first testing grounds.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Uber Chief Product Officer Jeff Holden said that testing for the program, called UberAir, would begin in 2020, with short flights of around 25 miles.
According to the company, passengers will travel in as-yet unbuilt electric aircrafts capable of traveling at speeds up to 200 miles per hour. The flights will take off and land at sites the company plans to develop in partnership with real estate investor Sandstone Properties.
Areas the flights could serve include Downtown LA, Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, and a site within close proximity to LAX.
And, unlike Uber’s pricey helicopter service, the rides will be relatively affordable compared with other air travel options (Uber expects fares to be comparable to those of its on-the-ground ride-hailing options).
Envisioned as an alternative to LA’s notoriously awful traffic, the service would bring some of that congestion to the skies. Holden tells Bloomberg that, once UberAir is in full swing, there will be an “unprecedented amount of air traffic flying over cities.”
To prevent above-ground gridlock, the company will use new air traffic management technology developed by NASA.
Uber will also rely on outside companies to develop a fleet of aircraft capable of meeting the demands of the taxi service. Eventually, these vehicles—like Uber’s boring old cars and SUVs—could be operated without a driver.
By the time the 2028 Olympics rolls around, the company hopes to see “tens of thousands” of daily flights in the LA area.
Story by Curbed LA. ​

U.S. Economy adds 261,000 jobs in October – Unemployment rate drops to 4.1% – The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the economy added 261,000 jobs in October. This was a rebound from September when the economy gained just 18,000 jobs in a revised estimate after the labor department initially reported a loss of 33,000 jobs, which marked the first month in seven years that jobs were lost. That revision makes October the 85th consecutive month of job gains. September’s disappointing figures were largely blamed by experts on job losses due to devastating hurricanes, which hit southern states and Puerto Rico. The 261,000 job gains represents that those experts were correct. The unemployment rate dropped to 4.1%, from 4.2% in September. It marks the lowest unemployment rate in 17 years. Wages were disappointing, as wages dropped last month. Wages grew 2.4% from one year ago. Previous months had gains, which had been 2.5% higher year-over-year. 
Stock markets closed higher for the eighth straight week, the longest streak since 2006 – Stocks rose again this week as more positive corporate earnings were released, The House released a tax plan which cut corporate taxes, The President nominated a new Fed Chief, The Federal Reserve did not increase rates at their policy meeting, and hiring rebounded in October. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the week at 23,539.19, up from 23,439.19 last week. It’s up 19.1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,587.84, up from its close last week of 2,581.07. The S&P is up 15.6% YTD. The NASDAQ closed the week at 6,764.44, up from its last week’s close of 6,701.26. It’s up 25.7% year-to-date. 
Bond yields drop this week – The 10-year Treasury bond closed the week at 2.34%, down from 2.53% last week. The 30-year treasury yield ended the week at 2.82%, down from 2.93% last week. Mortgage rates follow treasury bond yields so we watch bond yields carefully.
Mortgage Rates unchanged this week – The November 3, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.94%, unchanged from 3.94% last week. The 15-year fixed was 3.27%, almost unchanged from 3.25% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.23%, also almost unchanged from 3.21% last week. 
Economic update for the month ending October 31, 2017 
U.S. Economy adds 261,000 jobs in October – Unemployment rate drops to 4.1% – The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the economy added 261,000 jobs in October. This was a rebound from September when the economy gained just 18,000 jobs in a revised estimate after the labor department initially reported a loss of 33,000 jobs, which marked the first month in seven years that jobs were lost. That revision makes October the 85th consecutive month of job gains. September’s disappointing figures were largely blamed by experts on job losses due to devastating hurricanes which hit southern states and Puerto Rico. The 261,000 job gains represents that those experts were correct. The unemployment rate dropped to 4.1%, from 4.2% in September. It marks the lowest unemployment rate in 17 years. Wages were disappointing, as wages dropped last month. Wages grew 2.4% from one year ago. Previous months had gains which had been 2.5% higher year-over-year. 
Stock markets hit record highs just about every day in October – Third quarter corporate earnings boosted stock prices in October as most companies reported earnings that exceeded expectations. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the month at 23,348.74 upfrom its August 31 close of 22,405.08. The Dow is up over 19% year to date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 2,572.84, up from its August close of 2,519.36. The S&P is up over 15% year to date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 6,701.26, up from last month’s close of 6,495.26!!It’s up 25.7% year to date. 
Treasury Bond yields slightly higher in October – The 10-year Treasury bond closed on October 31, 2017 at 2.38%, up from 2.33% at the end of September. The 30-year treasury yield ended the month at 2.88%, up from 2.86% last month.
Mortgage Rates slightly higher in October – The November 2, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.94%, up from 3.83% on September 28, 2017. The 15-year fixed was 3.27%, up from last month’s close of 3.13%. The 5-year ARM was 3.23%, up from 3.20% on September 28. 
Third quarter GDP beats expectations – The Commerce Department reported that the Gross Domestic Product, the broadest measure of of growth in the economy, unexpectedly rose 3% in the third quarter after a 3,1% increase in the second quarter. Analysts expected that the rate of growth would be 2.5%, due to some slowing caused by hurricane damaged areas. 
September U.S. Existing Home Sales and Prices – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing home sales increased 0.7% in September from August sales levels. Year over year closed escrows on existing homes were 1.5% below last September’s pace. Most of that decline was attributed to hurricane damaged areas which showed large declines in sales. Existing home sales include re-sales of one to four unit homes, town-homes, condominiums, and Co-ops. The median price nationwide for an existing home increased 4.2% from September 2016, the 67th straight month of year over year increases. Total housing inventory was 1.6% higher in September than in August, but 6.4% below last September, representing its 28th straight month of year over year decreases in the amount of homes for sale. The unsold inventory index fell to a 4.2 month supply of homes for sale, down from a 4.5 month supply one year ago. 
U.S. New housing starts drop 4.7% in September – Hurricane damaged regions account for the drop – The Commerce Department reported that permits for new residential construction (single family and multi family) dropped 4.7% in September from August levels. Single family housing starts dropped 4.6%. The decline was attributed to hurricane damaged areas. Year to date housing starts were up 9.1% in September, compared to the first nine months of 2016. Breaking out single family housing, the hurricane damaged south posted a 15.3% decline in new housing starts in September. All other regions in the U.S. posted month over month gains. New permits for single family construction grew 15.7% in the western region in September over August levels. Multi family housing starts were down in just about every region across the country. 
California existing home sales and prices continue to increase in September – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing single family home sales totaled 436,920 in September on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. That’s up 2.2% from August and 1.7% from last September. The median price paid for a home in California was 555,410 in September, down 1.8% from August, but up 7.5% from last September. The number of active listingscontinued to decline in September. They were down 11.2% from September 2016. The Unsold Inventory Index showed a 3.2 month supply of housing supply, up from 2.9 months in August, yet down from a 3.5 month supply in September 2016. Housing inventory levels are at record low; however, the number of sales are above or close to the highest numbers ever recorded as the number of listings are not keeping up with the brisk sales pace. A normal market has a 6 to 7 month supply of housing. 

Author, 
​Syd Leibovitch