This 2017 year end is preliminary. I will prepare a more detailed year end report on the third week of January when we have final housing sales figures for 2017, employment figures, and GDP numbers.
Stocks had a banner year – U.S. stock markets closed the year with 2017 achieving the highest percentage gains since 2013. The big difference is that in 2013 stocks were recovering from huge drops during the recession, while in 2017 stock markets gained from record highs reached in 2016, which makes the 2017 gains even more remarkable. As the worldwide economy improved, international stocks fared even better, outperformed U.S. stock market gains for the first time since 2012. U.S. markets were helped by hopes of a massive corporate tax rate cut, which was finalized at the end of the year, loosening regulation, and a turnaround in the worldwide economy, which was sluggish in 2015 and 2016. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the year at 24,719.22, up 25.1% from 19,762.60 at the close of 2016. The Dow closed at 17,425.03 in 2015. The S&P 500 closed the year at 2,673.51, up 19.4% from 2,238.83 at the end of 2016. It was 2,043.94 at the end of 2015. The NASDAQ closed at 6,903.39, up 28.2% from 5,383.12 on December 31, 2016. It was 5,007.41 at the end of 2015. The 10-year Treasury bond closed the year at 2.40%, down from 2.45% December 31, 2016. It was 2.27% at the end of 2015. The 30-year treasury yield ended the year at 2.74%, down from 3.08% on Dec. 31, 2016. It was 3.01% on December 31, 2015. Mortgage Rates mixed in 2017 – The 30-year and 15-year fixed rate mortgages were lower this year than at the end of 2016. The short them ARM rates were higher. The Federal Reserve raises overnight rates banks pay three times in 2017, a .75% increase. That caused short term rates to rise, but did not cause long term rates to rise. That is because long term rates are tied to inflation, not short term rates. In fact, higher short term rates lower the risk of inflation. The December 28, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30 year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.99%, down from 4.32% on December 29, 2016. It was 4.01% at the end of 2015. The 15-year fixed was 3.44%, down from last December 28’s 3.55%. It was 3.24% at the end of 2015. The 5-year ARM was 3.47%, up from 3.30% at the close of 2016. It was 3.08% at end of 2015. U.S. Retail Holiday sales up 4.9% – MasterCard reported that holiday retail sales, which compares retail sales from November 1 to December 24, increased 4.9% from the same period last year. Online retail shopping similarly increased 18.1%, while overall consumer buying during the holiday period set a record for dollars spent, according to the sales report issued by Mastercard SpendingPulse. The number of California home sales and prices increase in November – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing single-family home sales totaled 440,340 in November on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. That marked an increase of 2.1% from October, yet down down 0.8% from November 2016. Year to date sales are 1.1% higher than the same period last year. The median price paid for a home in California was $546,820, in November, up 8.8% from last November. Housing inventory which had been at historically low levels dropped even further. The unsold inventory index revealed that there was just a 2.9 month supply of homes in the market in November. The number of homes for sale in November was 11.5% below last November’s number. My predictions for 2018. Tax reform – Many people have contacted me about how I feel about the new tax reform and how will it affect the real estate market. Most of the concern is over the $10,000 deduction cap on SALT, which stands for state and local taxes. These state and local taxes include: state income tax, property tax, sales tax, DMV fees, etc. Many fear what this limit will do to the real estate market, especially the upper end of the market. I think we were all blindsided by this. Nobody would have expected state and local tax deductions, which were unlimited before, to be capped. It is something that has never been proposed before. As a real estate broker, I’m against anything that takes away benefits of home ownership, but I think the housing market has so much momentum that prices and sales numbers will continue to rise. The reduction in the mortgage interest deduction from the interest on a $750,000 from a $1,000,000 loan also is unfortunate, but I don’t expect that to have much affect either. (Interest deduction on mortgages up to $1,000,000 originated before December 14, 2017, and the refinance of those loans will still remain deductible). I do expect the $10,000 combined limit on state and local taxes, and the reduction in the mortgage interest deduction to affect us in times of real estate recessions. It could make those periods more severe. Home prices – I expect home prices to increase in 2018. Conservatively, I expect prices to increase 5%-10%. Homes near median price range in each area will move up more than homes above the median price range. As we get to the higher priced homes in each area I’d expect prices to move up more slightly. Since 2012 the higher price ranges have moved up more than the median priced and lower homes, that’s beginning to change. We see some homes sitting in the very highest price ranges in each area. On those high priced homes we are seeing an oversupply due to lots of new construction. I would expect those homes to increase in prices at a very low percentage. Many of those homes are triple where they would have been at the 2006 peak near the end of the last cycle, while homes at the median price are just now about 15% above their 2006 peak. Mortgage rates – I would expect the 30-year fixed interest rate to remain between the 4% and 4.75%. Tame inflation should keep these rates near historic lows. I would not be surprised to see an inverted yield where short term adjustable rate mortgages rise to almost the same rate as a 30-year fixed. Number of sales – We don’t have final figures for 2017 yet, but the total California resales will be above 440,000 units. 2017 will be the the second highest number of sales in the state ever. Only below 2006 when subprime made everyone qualified to buy. I’d expect 2018 sales to be about the same number, possibly a little more. Home inventory levels – 2016 marked the lowest inventory levels since The California Association of Realtors began keeping records. 2017 was even lower and averaged about 11% fewer homes for sale each month compared to the same month in 2016. Most months saw under a 3 month supply of housing for sale. That’s an unheard of number. It gave the appearance that there was nothing to buy, but that is just not the case. There were enough homes listed for 2017 to be almost the highest number of sales ever. Buyers just had no time because homes were selling so quickly. I think inventory levels will tick up a little. Perhaps more sellers will begin to think we are closer to the top of the market and put their home up for sale. A normal market has a 6-7 month supply. In a normal market prices are stable. I don’t expect to get to a 6-7 month supply anytime soon. That’s why I fully expect prices to continue to rise. Easier to qualify – Loans in 2017 were easier to qualify for than they have been since anytime after the financial crisis. Loans required lower down-payments and lower credit scores than anytime since 2007. With a new head of The Consumer Financial Protection Board, who has promised to roll back some regulations and loosen up requirements, qualifying for a mortgage will get even easier. Author, Syd Leibovitch
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A few last minute changes to tax reform were added to the final bill that will benefit some real estate investors, homeowners and small business owners
These are the main areas of concern people have about tax reform as it relates to the real estate industry. These changes begin in the 2018 tax year. 1. The capital gains exclusion on a primary residence which allows $250,000 per individual, or $500,000 per married couple tax free capital gain exclusion on a primary residence sale will remain as it is currently. It requires that you live in the home for 2 out of the last 5 years. This was proposed to go to 5 years out of 8 years. That would have made this exclusion available only after 5 years not 2. 2. The mortgage interest deduction will be capped on the interest paid on a $750,000 loan. Previously the mortgage interest deduction was for the interest paid on up to $1,000,000 in mortgage loan, plus an equity line of $100,000. $1,100,000). The interest deduction on a loan up to $1,000,000 originated before October 31, 2017 will still be deductible. The interest paid on a $100,000 home equity line will no longer be deductible. 3. The deduction on state and local tax paid, which includes property tax will be capped at $10,000 a year. This has been unlimited since congress approved an income tax in 1909. 4. Real estate investors- A last minute change will allow most real estate investors to deduct 20% of their taxable (net) rental income. These small businesses would be a pass through, but would not be subject to the limits of a service industry business. 5. Service industry pass through rate - A last minute change to help small business will help Realtors. Until Friday a service industry business would not qualify for the lower pass through rate given to S-corps, LLC’s, partnerships, and sole proprietors. Monday a provision was added that will allow small service industry businesses to be able to the deduct 20% of their net taxable income from the total. Unfortunately , for some reason, this would begin to phase out for those small businesses that earn more than $315,000 for married tax filers and $157,500 for individual filers. For example if you make $250,000 net and are married you would get a $50,000 deduction (20%) and you would be taxed in $200,000 at your normal rate. If you make $315,000 or more this deduction won’t be available to you. 6. Many agents have contacted me concerned that they will no longer be able to write off business expenses. That is a rumor. Employees will not be able to write off business expenses, not independent contractors which are small businesses. Small businesses which include sole proprietors (you do not need to incorporate), corporations, LLC’s and partnerships can write off business expenses. There is also changes in depreciation that will be more beneficial. Author, Syd Leibovitch Stocks up as corporate tax cut becomes official – On Friday, President Trump signed a tax reform bill. Key to that bill was a reduction in the corporate income tax rate, which lowers rates corporations pay from 35% to 21%. The hope is that lower corporate rates will encourage businesses to remain in the U.S., and perhaps it will encourage companies to return the the U.S. Stocks have had a record year as investors have speculated that this massive corporate tax cut would happen. Now it officially has. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the week at 24,754.06, up from 24,651.74 last week. It’s up 25.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,683.34, up from its close last week of 2,675.81. The S&P is up 19.9% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 6,959.26, up from its last week’s close of 6,936.58. It is up 29.3% year-to-date.
Bond yields rise – The 10-year Treasury bond closed the week at 2.48%, up from 2.35% last week. The 30-year treasury yield ended the week at 2.83%, up from 2.68% last week. Home mortgage rates increased proportionally to bond rates. Mortgage Rates rise to end the week near the highest levels of the year- The December 21, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey, which gathered information from December 13-20, reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.94%, unchanged from 3.93% last week. The 15-year fixed was 3.38%, unchanged from 3.36% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.39%, unchanged from last week’s 3.36%. Unfortunately, rates rose Thursday and Friday. Rates are over 1/8% higher now than the survey rates. The 30-year fixed is now over 4%. It’s about as high as we have seen this year. Next week’s survey will reflect this. The number of California home sales and prices increase again in November – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing single-family home sales totaled 440,340 in November on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. That marked an increase of 2.1% from October, yet down 0.8% from November 2016. Year-to-date sales are 1.1% higher than the same period last year. The median price paid for a home in California was $546,820 in November, up 8.8% from last November. Housing inventory, which had been at historically low levels, dropped even further. The unsold inventory index revealed that there was just a 2.9 month supply of homes in the market in November. The number of homes for sale in November was 11.5% below last November’s number. California’s unemployment rate drops to 40 year low in November – The Employment Development Department reported that California employer’s added 47,400 new jobs in November. The unemployment rate fell from 4.9% in October to 4.6% in November. That marked the lowest unemployment rate since the state changed the way it calculates the rate in 1976. 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. (December 22-24) includes Deck The Halls Concert, Little Dom’s Ugly Sweater Christmas Party, CHILL Adventure Park, Winter Fest, The 58th annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration and MUCH more. Enjoy! Friday December 22nd, 20171. Looking to literally step into the Christmas spirit? Check out out round up of where you can walk into life-size gingerbread houses in and around Los Angeles. 2. The LA Master Chorale will host a Deck The Halls holiday concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 3. The Rink in Downtown Burbank returns with a festive ice-skating event from December 14 through January 7. Check for discount tickets for this weekend while supplies last. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 4. Come dressed in an ugly sweater and get a free mini martini or mini Manhattan from 5:30 p.m. to close during Little Dom’s Ugly Sweater Christmas Party. 5. Long Beach Ballet’s The Nutcracker is accompanied by a full symphony orchestra along with a special appearance by Rebel, Long Beach Ballet’s stunning white Arabian horse. Happening Friday through Sunday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 6. 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!). 7. Union Station concludes its holiday season of Cocoa Concert with La Picante’s “A Very Salsa Christmas” in the historic south patio this Friday. FREE 8. There’s an ALL NIGHT Holiday Party happening at The Reserve in DTLA this Friday with a tribute room dedicated to Mariah Carey and the main room spinning old school hip hop and RnB. 9. Star Wars: The Last Jedi will screen at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood starting this Friday. Experience an intergalactic Laser Lightsaber Show before the movie and check out real costumes from the film up close. Happening all weekend. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 10. The Museum of Failure has landed in Los Angeles at A+D Architecture and Design Museum in the Arts District. Exhibits 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. Check for discount tickets while supplies. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 11. 260LA will host a Stila Sample Sale at their Beverly Hills location from December 19-23. Score premium deals on a full spectrum of the makeup brands products. 12. The Grand Chapiteau at Dodger Stadium will be home to Cirque du Soleil’s new big-top show LUZIA. Inspired by the rich culture Mexico, the dazzling acrobatic performance will be heightened by brassy Mexican and Latin American sounds. Happening all weekend. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 13. Rockwell: Table & Stage present the unauthorized musical parody of John Hughes classic Home Alone. Happening Thursday through the weekend. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 14. Long Beach seafood concept Roe will host a week long culinary Feast of the Seven (Sustainable) Fishes from December 17-24. Prepared by Chef Arthur Gonzalez, the event will focus on one sustainably sourced seafood dish per night, served alongside a dish “Catch Card” detailing the fish species, catch location or fish origin, and the names of both the fisherman and the boat. 15. Head to the New Beverly for a Christmas-themed double feature this Friday. They’ll be screening It’s A Wonderful Life and A Christmas Story in 35mm. Happening Friday and Saturday. 16. Rooftop Cinema Club Ultimate Holiday Movie Series will host a month-long schedule of Christmas inspired movie screenings from December 1-23. The series concludes this weekend with screenings of Elf, Home Alone and It’s a Wonderful Life. 17. 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. 18. Free admission at: Long Beach Museum of Art and Museum of Latin American Art (5 to 9 p.m.) Saturday, December 23rd, 201719. Winter Fest Returns to OC Fairgrounds (Dec. 21 to Jan. 7) will offer an all-new festival of lights, snow summit, winter bounce houses, outdoor ice skating, ice tubing, snowfall and the man of the season, Santa Claus. Check for discount tickets this weekend before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 20. CHILL Adventure Park returns to the Queen Mary in Long Beach from December 13 through January 7. Come experience ice bumper cars, ice skating, an Alpine Zip Line and more chill themed activities. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. Happening all weekend. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 21. 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. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 22. RuPaul’s Drag Race divas are taking over the Orpheum Theatre for one epic holiday spectacular. Hosted by Trinity “The Body” Taylor with appearances by fan-fave contestants, guests will see them perform and participate in a rare audience Q&A. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 23. 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 ticketsbefore making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 24. 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 25. Happy Place brings a bright and immersive pop-up experience to the Arts District starting today. Capture perfect Instagram moments and enjoy sweet treats as you journey through one-of-a-kind installations designed to make you smile. Runs on select dates through January 7, 2018. Be sure to check for discounts before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) Happy Place has been temporarily closed down due to permitting issues. December tickets are currently being refunded. You can read the latest ticketing update via their Instagram. 26. 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. 27. Get into the winter spirit when ICE at Santa Monica returns with a 8,000 square foot ice skating rink. Running November 1, 2017 through January 5, 2018. 28. 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) Sunday, December 24th, 201729. The 58th annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration is a free Christmas Eve celebration at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion featuring Los Angeles-based musicians and dancers, including the Gay Men’s Chorus, City Ballet of Los Angeles, M-Pact and more. FREE 30. The Spare Room at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is host to the MatzoBall an annual Jewish singles networking event. Though most attendees are Jewish, more singles of all backgrounds are now showing up for this hugely popular party. 31. Need a little Christmas Eve refreshment? Grab a seasonal drink of one of 15 Places in L.A. to Get an Amazing Holiday Cocktail, including Westbound, Big Bar, and Casa Vega. Schedule by We Like LA. With New Year’s Eve fast approaching the time to make plans is exactly RIGHT NOW! Thankfully, Los Angeles has options.
NYE 2018 in L.A. promises something for everyone. This year includes free bashes at Grand Park and Angel City Brewery, a black tie gala in Beverly Hills, swing dancing at Knott’s Berry Farm, Sir-Mix-a-Lot at the Queen Mary, fireworks in Marina Del Rey, a daytime NYE event for kids, and MUCH more. New Year’s Eve To-Dos 2017 -> 2018Price noted in parenthesis. Numbered for reference only, listed in no particular order. 1. N.Y.E.L.A. at Grand Park (free) 2. Dita Von Teese’s New Year’s Eve Gala Show at the Ace Hotel ($49.50-225) 3. Prohibition NYE at Union Station ($175) 4. The Raymond’s/1886 New Year’s Eve Bash ($100) 5. New Year’s Eve on The Queen Mary with Sir Mix-a-Lot, with discount tickets available through Goldstar ($119/$72 while supplies last) 6. Angel City Brewery Presents No Cover New Year’s Eve (free) 7. Bootie LA: New YEARS EVE 2018 at Resident DTLA ($30) 8. Hermosa Beach New Year’s Eve Celebration With Ball Drop & Live Music (free) 9. Dave Chappelle & John Meyer at The Forum ($80-395) 10. Hudson House’s New Year’s Eve ’70s Disco Party ($40) 11. Classic Hollywood Roosevelt New Year’s Eve ($155-185) 12. New Year’s Eve Ball at The Edison ($100) 13. Havana Nights NYE Celebration at the Shade Hotel ($95) 14. New Year’s Eve Night Dive at the Aquarium of the Pacific ($25-30) 15. Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve at The LA Zoo ($40-69) 16. Brighter Future NYE Party ($20-95) 17. Marina del Rey New Year’s Eve Fireworks & Glow Party (Free) 18. Insomniac’s Countdown NYE ($99-319) 19. New Year’s Eve with Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox at Walt Disney Hall ($75-175) 20. Magicopolis’ Magical NYE, with discount tickets available through Goldstar ($75/$37.50 while supplies last) 21. Speakeasy Fireworks Long Beach New Year’s Eve Cruise ($70-129) 22. New Year’s Eve Black Tie Gala at Montage Beverly Hills ($395) 23. NYE 2018 Cleopatra’s Ball at Hollywood Egyptian Theatre ($109-149) 24. Minimal Effort NYE at The MacArthur ($59-149) 25. New Year’s Eve Ball at the Continental Club ($40) 26. Dollface Dames Burlesque Bash at Bareburger ($40, or $20 discount tickets available through Goldstar while supplies last) 27. Kidspace Noon Year’s Eve at the Rose Bowl (free) 28. Knott’s Berry Farm NYE with Swing Dance, Salsa & Fireworks (Included in admission price of $49-79) 29. New Year’s Eve at the Waterfront in Downtown Long Beach (free) 30. BOOM! Drug and Alcohol-free New Year’s Eve at the West Hollywood Park Auditorium (free) Article by We Like LA. As a tax reform deal gets closer, stocks continue to skyrocket –Stock markets continued to rise this week as Congress announced that they have finalized a deal on tax reform. Friday they said they had the votes to approve it and would vote next week. The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rates for the third time this year citing the strength of the economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the week at 24,651.74, up from 24,326.16 last week. It’s up 24.7% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,675.81, up from its close last week of 2,651.50. The S&P is up 19.5% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 6,936.58, up from its last week’s close of 6,840.08. It is up 28.9% year-to-date.
Bond yields end week almost the same as last Friday – The 10-year Treasury bond closed the week at 2.35%, down from 2.38% last week. The 30-year treasury yield ended the week at 2.68%, downfrom 2.77% last week Mortgage Rates slightly higher – The December 14, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.93%, unchanged from 3.94% last week. The 15-year fixed was 3.36%, unchanged from 3.36% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.36%, unchanged from last week’s 3.35%. Tax reform clears another hurdle as the Senate and House reconcile their bills and agree on a compromise bill – There still needs a final vote in the Senate and House, followed by a signature by President Trump, but both chambers announced Friday that they had the votes and would vote next week. The final bill has a reduction in the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%. It also reduces all individual tax bracket rates with the top rate capping out at 37%, a 2.7% reduction. It doubles the exempt amount for estate tax and it lowers the amount of AMT (alternative minimum tax). The standard deduction for people that don’t itemize has been almost doubled to $12,000 for individuals, and $24,000 for married couples. To pay for the tax cuts many deductions have been cut back or eliminated. As it relates to real estate some are: a reduction in the mortgage interest deduction from the interest paid on up to $1,100,000 in mortgage loan amount to the interest paid on up to a $750,000 loan. (This applies to new loans. An existing loan up to $1,000,000 is grandfathered in). The deduction on state and local tax paid, which includes property tax will be capped at $10,000 a year. This has been unlimited since congress approved an income tax in 1909. Currently the ability to get a $250,000 per individual, or $500,000 per married couple tax free gain forgiveness on a primary residence sale requires that you live in the home for 2 out of the last 5 years. This is proposed to go to 5 years out of 8 years. Realtor organizations are still trying to get this change eliminated before a final vote. Unfortunately, many in high tax rate states like California will actually pay more in federal income tax according to experts, because of the $10,000 cap on the state and local tax deduction. Federal Reserve raises overnight rates – The Fed announced that it has raised their key interest rates for a third time this year, citing that a healthy economy called for another rate increase. The Fed dropped rates quickly beginning in 2007 to try to stimulate the economy before and during the Great Recession. By 2009 they had dropped the rate so many times it got to 0% for the first time in the history of the Fed. It remained at 0% until 2015 when the economy had picked up and it was raised 1/4%. It was raised 1/4% two more times in 2016, and three more times this year as the economy has rebounded. The Federal Funds and Discount Rate now stand at 1.5%, still a historic low. The 10-year and 30-year treasury bond yield and the 30-year fixed rate mortgage interest rate actually dropped after the announcement, as raising short term rates lowers the risk of inflation, which affects long term rates. 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 everyweekend 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 15-17) includes Saber Battle L.A., a Holiday Sing-Along at Walt Disney Concert Hall, a CHILL Adventure Park at the Queen Mary, a Porto’s Potato Ball Pop-Up, a Christmas Concert at The Bradbury and MUCH more. Enjoy! Friday December 15, 20171. Saber Battle L.A. is a massive showdown at Pershing Square in DTLA. Hundreds of participants will come out to ‘battle’ one another using toy lightsabers. The event itself is free to attend but lightsabers are available to purchase online for delivery or to pickup on site. Be sure to check for discounts on lightsaber packages while supplies last. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 2. Candytopia is the latest pop-up experience taking over L.A. featuring various candy-inspired rooms and installations like a marshmallow tsunamis and other edible surprises. Taking place at the LA Hangar Studios in Boyle Heights, Candytopia will run until March 15, 2018. 3. For one day only, Jon and Vinny’s will host a secret backyard party to welcome Milk Bar to L.A. Guests can get their hands on Milk Bars epic cookies, cake truffles, crack pie™ and more from 3-9 p.m. or until the treats run out. It’s a party so expect crafts, games, Milk Bar souvenirs and other surprises. The first 50 guests will receive a Milk Bar tote bag. 4. 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) 5. The Rink in Downtown Burbank returns with a festive ice-skating event from December 14 through January 7. Check for discount tickets while supplies last. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 6. Star Wars: The Last Jedi will screen at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood starting this Friday. Experience an intergalactic Laser Lightsaber Show before the movie and check out real costumes from the film up close. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 7. The Battleship IOWA will host a Holiday Movie Screening of “Frozen” on the fantail of their historic ship. Seating is first come first served. FREE 8. Rockwell: Table & Stage present the unauthorized musical parody of John Hughes classic Home Alone. Happening Thursday through the weekend. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 9. 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!). 10. Rooftop Cinema Club Ultimate Holiday Movie Series will host a month-long schedule of Christmas inspired movie screenings from December 1-23. The series continues this weekend with screenings of A Christmas Story, Elf, Edward Scissorhands and more. 11. 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. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 12. A Taste of the Holidays Christmas Market taking place at Crafted at The Port of Los Angeles December 15-17 is a festive european-style shopping event with live music, dancing, DIY holiday crafts, a Christmas tree lot, Brouwerij West’s Holiday Brew and photos with Santa. 13. National Geographic Live returns to the Broad Stage in Santa Monica with Cristina Mittermeier, marine biologist/photographer on December 14-15. Check for discount tickets while supplies last. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 14. 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) 15. The Artisanal LA x Bunker Hill Holiday Pop-Up returns to the Bank of America Plaza in DTLA from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. with 20+ makers of handcrafted goods and treats plus a live DJ and a festive photo booth. Admission is free to the public. 16. 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) 17. See the twinkling lights taking over our city during the Holiday Lights tour of Downtown Los Angeles. The tour is two hours long and starts at Union Station in the evening and ends at Pershing Square. Happening throughout the weekend. 18. 260LA will host a J Brand Sample Sale at their Beverly Hills location from December 13-17. Score premium denim items for men and women at steep discounted prices of up to 70% off. 19. The Sorting Room winter session is in full swing with eclectic performances spread over two weeks (through December 21). Each show includes special happy hour drink deals beforehand, with featured talent ranging from poets to composers, jazz singers, Tony Award winners and cabaret singers. This weekend features Clint Holmes on Friday and Love Actually Live on Saturday. 20. 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. Saturday, December 16th, 201721. Get into the holiday season with a Holiday Sing-Along at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. There will be hot cocoa, coffee and pictures with Santa for an extra dose of cheer. 22. There’s a Porto’s Potato Ball Pop-Up happening at Annenberg Space for Photography in conjunction with Cuba Is, the Annenberg’s current photography exhibit. The balls will be sold in packs of six this Saturday and the current exhibit is free and open to the public. 23. CHILL Adventure Park returns to the Queen Mary in Long Beach from December 13 through January 7. Come experience ice bumper cars, ice skating, an Alpine Zip Line and more chill themed activities. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 24. Bergamot Station will host their Holiday Open House featuring work, creations and products designed by the creative community and businesses in the complex. Admission is free and open to the public. 25. The Brian Setzer Orchestra’s Christmas Rocks show will take over the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood for a Big Band take on Christmas classics. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 26. Saban Theatre will be transformed into a full on holiday party featuring carolers, DJ’s, a Christmas card photo photo booth, food trucks, holiday cocktails and a Drunk Santa followed by a screening of the Will Ferrell Christmas classic Elf. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 27. 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. Happening Saturday and Sunday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 28. Visit Dockweiler Youth Center for Beach Winter Wonderland, fun for the entire family this free event features bounce houses, winter activities, rides, and authentic snow at the beach. FREE 29. The 9th Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl will take place at numerous locations of Santa Monica’s best bars and restaurants. Dress in Santa or holiday attire is strongly encouraged for this festive pub crawl. 30. Holly Jolly Day at the JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE will include access to the L.A. LIVE ice skating rink and several over the top culinary and dessert stations. Enjoy the customizable hot chocolate bar, towering chocolate fountain, eggnog panna cotta, yule logs a cookie decoration station and much more. 31. The Museum of Failure has landed in Los Angeles at A+D Architecture and Design Museum in the Arts District. Exhibits 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. 32. Holiday TrainFest and Toy Drive at the Los Angeles Union Station in Downtown L.A. is a free and family-friendly event featuring vintage rail cars decked out in festive attire, live music, refreshments and a toy drive for Toys for Tots. FREE 33. 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) 34. The Grand Chapiteau at Dodger Stadium will be home to Cirque du Soleil’s new big-top show LUZIA. Inspired by the rich culture Mexico, the dazzling acrobatic performance will be heightened by brassy Mexican and Latin American sounds. Happening all week. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 35. The 35th Annual Parade of 1000 Lights Christmas Boat Parade returns to Shoreline Village in Long Beach this Saturday. 36. Hear pitch perfect holiday tunes belted out by The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles during their annual Holiday Spectacular show happening at Alex Theatre in Glendale this Satruday. DISCOUNTED(via Goldstar) 37. Happy Place brings a bright and immersive pop-up experience to the Arts District starting today. Capture perfect Instagram moments and enjoy sweet treats as you journey through one-of-a-kind installations designed to make you smile. Runs on select dates through January 7, 2018. Be sure to check for discounts before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 38. 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 ticketsbefore making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 39. Do a little holiday shopping along the L.A. River during the Frogtown Flea Market. The two-day event (Saturday and Sunday) will feature food, drinks, music, art, plants, apothecary, zines, vintage finds, crafts, and more. A $5 donation is suggested. 40. 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 December with a holiday theme. There is no cover to attend. Part of the proceeds from food purchases will go to help locals in need. 41. 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. Sunday, December 17th, 201742. 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. 43. The popular Christmas Concert at The Bradbury will feature a 30-voice choir singing all the holiday favorites in one of the most beautiful interiors of all of Los Angeles. 44. Long Beach seafood concept Roe will host a week long culinary Feast of the Seven (Sustainable) Fishes from December 17-24. Prepared by Chef Arthur Gonzalez, the event will focus on one sustainably sourced seafood dish per night, served alongside a dish “Catch Card” detailing the fish species, catch location or fish origin, and the names of both the fisherman and the boat. 45. Sunday is the final Smorgasburg of the year before they go on a hiatus till January 14, 2018. It’s also the last day of their Holiday Market, so you’ll be able to shop and eat all in one place. 46. Get into the winter spirit when ICE at Santa Monica returns with a 8,000 square foot ice skating rink. Running November 1, 2017 through January 5, 2018. 47. 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 Schedule provided by We Like LA. U.S. Economy adds 228,000 new jobs in November – The Labor Department reported that 228,000 net new jobs were added in November. That beat analysts expectations of 195,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate held at 4.1%, a 17 year low. Average hourly wages rose just 2.5% from one year ago. Wage gains have been sluggish for several years. Experts had hoped that a tighter labor market would result in higher wages. The Fed has a 3% target on wage gains. Nothing in this report is expected to change their policy of slowly raising overnight rates, according to experts.
Stocks mostly higher – Stocks rose slightly this week as investors digested what a final tax reform bill would look like. It appears that the Senate and House are getting close to a final version. Wall Street is focused on the corporate tax rate. While last Friday a reduction from 35% to 20% seemed like a done deal, President Trump said Monday that he would settle for a 22% corporate rate. Stocks dropped because this took investors by surprise. He previously said he would not accept a corporate tax rate above 20% and that was an area in which the House and Senate bills were in agreement. By the end of the week it appeared that the corporate rate would end up at 20% and stocks rebounded. The November jobs report, which was released on Friday, also added to investor confidence as the economy added 228,000 new jobs. The analysts expectations were 195,000 new jobs. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the week at 24,326.16, up from 24,231.59 week. It’s up 23.1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 2,651.50, up from its close last week of 2,642.32. The S&P is up 18.4% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 6,840.08, down from its last week’s close of 6,847.59. It is up 27.1% year-to-date. Bond yields end week almost the same as last Friday – The 10-year Treasury bond closed the week at 2.38%, unchanged from 2.37% last week. The 30-year treasury yield ended the week at 2.77%, unchanged from 2.76% last week. Mortgage Rates slightly higher – The December 7, 2017 Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate average was 3.94%, up from 3.90% last week. The 15-year fixed was 3.36%, up from 3.30% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.35%, up from last week’s 3.32%. Confirming and FHA loan limits increase – The confirming loan limit will increase from $424,100 to $453,100. The conforming high balance will go from 636,150 to $679,650 in 2018. The FHA loan limit will also rise to $679,650. Both conforming and FHA limits increase for 2,3 and 4 unit dwellings. Author, Syd 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 8-10) includes Snow Wonder, The Extreme Beer Fest L.A., the Echo Park Craft Fair, Merry Merry Malibu, the Venice Canals Holiday Boat Parade, a Griffith Park Festival of Lights Hike, Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Show and MUCH more. NOTE: With the numerous wildfires and extreme wind conditions around SoCal today, our top priority is that you stay safe. Remember that you can sign up for emergency notifications from the City of Los Angeles – Emergency Management Department in order to stay updated on any important messages relevant to your location. Friday December 8th, 20171. California Market Center is hosting Fashion with a Cause, charity sample sale this Friday featuring 20 plus vendors and sips and bites from local L.A. vendor pop-ups. The event will benefit the Vanderpump Dog Foundation. 2. Refinery29 presents 29Rooms, a festival in Downtown L.A. focused on style, culture, and technology. The fest runs back-to-back weekends (December 7 – 10 & December 14 – 17) at ROW DTLA. 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. Score amazing designer brands available for as much as 80% off at Gilt Sample Sale on December 8- 9. Taking place at Siren Studios, shopper will enjoy cocktails, snacks, on demand alterations and styling services. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 5. The USC Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena is reopening to the public this Friday. To celebrate the museum will offer free admission from December 8-17. Among the exhibitions on view will be Winds from Fusang: Mexico and China in the Twentieth Century, which showcases the connection between the creative communities of Mexico and China in the last century, and is presented as part of Pacific Standard Time: LA/LA. FREE 6. 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. 7. 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) 8. Enjoy the world premiere of a new version of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion from December 7-10. Check for discounted tickets on select dates before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 9. The Museum of Failure has landed in Los Angeles at A+D Architecture and Design Museum in the Arts District. Exhibits 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. 10. 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 throughout the week. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 11. 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. 12. 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) 13. Rooftop Cinema Club Ultimate Holiday Movie Series will host a month-long schedule of Christmas inspired movie screenings from December 1-23. The series continues this weekend with screenings of Home Alone, Nightmare Before Christmas and more. 14. See the twinkling lights taking over our city during the Holiday Lights tour of Downtown Los Angeles. The tour is two hours long and starts at Union Station in the evening and ends at Pershing Square. Happening throughout the weekend. 15. 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. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 16. The Sorting Room winter session is in full swing with eclectic performances spread over two weeks (through December 21). Each show includes special happy hour drink deals beforehand, with featured talent ranging from poets to composers, jazz singers, Tony Award winners and cabaret singers. This weekend features Shaina Taub (Friday), Pia Toscano (Saturday) and Get Lit! (Sunday). 17. 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. Saturday, December 9th, 201718. Celebrate the magic of the holiday season in Marina del Rey during Snow Wonder, a lively family event, followed by the 55th annual Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade. FREE 19. The Extreme Beer Fest Los Angeles is coming to DTLA’s California Market Center this Saturday with creative beers both local and international. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 20. The Echo Park Craft Fair returns to Mack Sennett Studios in Silver Lake on December 9-10 for two-days of holiday shopping from 120+ curated vendors and festive activities and entertainment. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 21. The 71st Annual Naples Island Holiday Boat Parade comes to Long Beach on Saturday with an entertaining display of boats of in all shapes and sizes. This year’s theme is “The Canals are Alive with the Sound of Music.” FREE 22. The Grand Chapiteau at Dodger Stadium will be home to Cirque du Soleil’s new big-top show LUZIA. Inspired by the rich culture Mexico, the dazzling acrobatic performance will be heightened by brassy Mexican and Latin American sounds. Happening all weekend. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 23. The Echo Park Community Parade returns to Sunset Boulevard to celebrate the holiday and its vibrant neighborhood. 24. SIP. SHOP. EAT! at The Collective Pop Up Market comes to The Allies in Downtown L.A. for a fun intersection of your favorite things past times: food, style, and drinks. Check for discounted ticketsbefore making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 25. Baldwin Hills Crenshaw presents their Winter Wonderland Holiday Celebration with Council member Marqueece Harris-Dawson and the City of Los Angeles. There will be snow sledding, giveaways, holiday music, a visit from Santa, entertainment, and more. FREE 26. The Renegade Craft Fair comes to Los Angeles State Historic Park for a two-day showcase of some of the best independent craft and design work from artisans and makers. 27. The 7th Annual Holiday Concert & Santa on the Pier returns to Redondo Beach for some seasonal fun, live tunes and a Surfing Santa. FREE 28. Merry Merry Malibu hits the beach December 9-10 for a joyous weekend of holiday festivities at your favorite shopping centers by the water. Hosted by Malibu Village, Malibu Country Mart, and Malibu Lumber Yard, this cheery two-day affair will feature a variety of festive holiday activities including a gingerbread cookie-decorating workshop, holiday tree exhibit, pet adoptions, and holiday carols. 29. The darkest shopping event of the year is back, the 9th Annual Bitchcraft Winter Faire will take place in Highland Park with 30+ food, art and shopping vendors. 30. 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. Happening Satruday and Sunday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 31. Shop local during Artisanal LA Holiday Market taking place in Downtown Arcadia. Over 100 indie makers, crafters, and chefs will be on hand for all your holiday needs. FREE 32. 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) 33. Experience the food and culture of East Hollywood’s ethnic neighborhoods through a four hour foodie tour this Saturday. DISCOUNTED 34. ban.do will host an epic holiday event called “the mall” on December 9-10 at their Hollywood Headquarters. The immersive shopping experience is an 80’s mall themed pop-up featuring tons of ban.do items on sale as well as other brand shopping and activations like manis from Olive & June, pretzels from Auntie Anne’s and more. 35. The 2017 Downtown Pomona Christmas Parade will take over the Downtown area with a family friendley parade. FREE 36. “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. Sunday, December 10th, 201737. The Griffith Park Festival of Lights Hike 2017 returns on Sunday. Join a cheery group of hikers as they wear lit outfits by way of Christmas lights for a hike up Mount Hollywood. FREE 38. Le Salon de Musiques presents a stage free chamber musical experience with champagne and high tea to follow at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion this Sunday. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 39. Head to the South Bay for a day of holiday festivities, live music and the famous Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Show. The fireworks spectacle begins at 7 p.m. but you won’t want to miss the full day of fun that includes a snow park and sled hill. FREE 40. This Sunday the Hanukkah Festival: LA/LA will take place at the Skirball Cultural Center. Highlights include Latin Jewish bands, cumbia dance lessons, hands-on art activities, a chocolate decorating workshop & live storytelling. Check for discounted tickets before making your purchase. DISCOUNTED(via Goldstar) SPECIAL NOTE: The Skirball Cultural center was closed on Thursday, December 7 due to the nearby wildfire in the region. Please be sure to check with Skirball’s official website for the latest updates on closures and/or cancelling of this event. 41. Stevie Wonder’s Annual Benefit Concert at The Staple Center will help collect toys and other donations for children, the disabled and families in need. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 42. Pee Cast Blast, an all-day, Monsters of Rock-style event featuring the best comedy podcasts of all time takes over the Theatre at Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles this Sunday . 43. The 36th Annual Venice Canals Holiday Boat Parade will take place this Sunday. This year’s theme is “Peace on Earth” with the parade starting at the corner of Eastern and Sherman Canal at 4 p.m. FREE 44. 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 45. 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. 46. 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 ticketsbefore making your purchase. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 47. Happy Place brings a bright and immersive pop-up experience to the Arts District starting today. Capture perfect Instagram moments and enjoy sweet treats as you journey through one-of-a-kind installations designed to make you smile. Runs on select dates through January 7, 2018. 48. Get into the winter spirit when ICE at Santa Monica returns with a 8,000 square foot ice skating rink. Running November 1, 2017 through January 5, 2018. 49. Rockwell: Table & Stage present the unauthorized musical parody of John Hughes classic Home Alone. Happening Thursday through the weekend. DISCOUNTED (via Goldstar) 50. 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. Schedule provided by We Like LA. Savor the magic of the holiday season, cinematically speaking, when The Ultimate Holiday Movie Series comes to Rooftop Cinema Club at the Ricardo Montalbán Theatre in Hollywood!
Rooftop Cinema Club made its debut in Los Angeles in 2015 and has since become one of L.A.’s most beloved outdoor movie events. This new holiday-themed series debuts on December 1 with the charming Will Ferrell comedy Elf and continues most nights through December 23. Part of what makes Rooftop Cinema Club so special is the unique venue. Perched high above Hollywood and Vine, Rooftop Cinema Club atop the Montalbán offers great views, supremely comfortable lawn chairs, audio via wireless headphones, and blankets for chilly nights, if needed. Comforting hot drinks, including mulled wine, will be available for purchase. Presented in conjunction with Time Out, this series of 29 different screenings will focus on cherished seasonal films, going back as far as the 1940s (It’s a Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street) to as recent as 2015 (Todd Haynes’ Carol, starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara). In addition, enjoy ’80s classics like A Christmas Story, When Harry Met Sally, Die Hard, Scrooged, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and Trading Places, eternal Tim Burton films like Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas, or the delightfully lowbrow Bad Santa. The complete schedule is listed below. You can purchase tickets via the official website. Happy holidays! December 1: Elf (7 p.m. ) December 1: When Harry Met Sally (9 p.m.) December 2: Muppet Christmas Carol (5 p.m.) December 2: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (8 p.m.) December 3: Miracle on 34th Street (5 p.m.) December 3: Carol (7:30 p.m) December 5: It’s a Wonderful Life (8 p.m.) December 6: Love Actually (8 p.m.) December 7: Die Hard (8 p.m.) December 8: Home Alone (7 p.m.) December 8: Scrooged (9 p.m.) December 9: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (5 p.m.) December 9: Trading Places (8 p.m.) December 10: Muppet Christmas Carol (5 p.m.) December 10: Nightmare Before Christmas (7:30 p.m.) December 12: It’s a Wonderful Life (8 p.m.) December 13: Love Actually (8 p.m.) December 14: White Christmas (8 p.m.) December 15: Elf (7 p.m.) December 15: A Christmas Story (9 p.m.) December 17: Edward Scissorhands (5 p.m.) December 17: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (7:30 p.m.) December 19: The Holiday (8 p.m.) December 20: Bad Santa (8 p.m.) December 21: Love Actually (8 p.m.) December 22: Home Alone (7 p.m.) December 22: Home Alone II: Lost in New York (9 p.m.) December 23: Elf (5 p.m.) December 23: It’s a Wonderful Life (8 p.m.) The Ricardo Montalbán Theatre is located at 1615 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Visit rooftopcinemaclub.com for more information and to purchase tickets. |
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February 2020
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