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Festivals

Santa Monica Pier Centennial

September 08, 2009

Hi everyone,

I’m Elise Crane Derby and I will be taking over for Susan Choi. I look forward to helping you find some great things to do around town. So here we go.

If you grew up on the West Side of Los Angeles you have so many memories of the Santa Monica Pier, riding the bumper cars and the carousel and playing skee-ball in the arcade to mention just a few. I’m making new memories there now for my daughter, riding the ferris wheel, going to Twilight Dance Series concerts, and watching the people fish off the pier. On Wednesday Septemer 9^th the pier will be celebrating her 100 year. Beginning at 6pm there will be the grand re-opening ceremomy with speeches, music, celebrities , a 100 foot cake, and a ribbon cutting re-opening the pier to everyone. From about 7pm on the 100 minute birthday party will begin with performances by Dick Dale (King of Surf Guitar), Vybrations (an a capella group) and The Big Bamboo Steel Band. All of this will be topped of by the first firework show at the pier in almost 20 years. I hope this experience will convince them to bring fourth of July fireworks back to Santa Monica pier. I’ve missed them. Happy Birthday Santa Monica Pier!

Here is the full itinerary:

6:00 p.m. - 6:25p.m.
GRAND RE-OPENING CEREMONY

Location- Pier Entrance

We re-dedicate the Santa Monica Pier for the next Century in this opening event at the Landmarked Iconic Pier

"A Century of Memories": Brief memories and historical milestones by those who have lived through each of the decades.

"Ribbon of Time" : A very special ribbon cutting ceremony begins

"For Future Generations": A keynote speaker presents a vision for the Santa Monica Pier in the next century as the ceremonial ribbon is cut!

Fanfares and Flourishes performed by the 14 member Los Angeles Brass Ensemble

"Portrait for the New Century": Re-staging of the historic photo at the Pier sign.

Procession to the People's Pier: Once the ribbon is cut we invite all to come onto the Pier and celebrate this historic occasion with us

6:45 p.m. - 8:25 p.m.
PARTY ON THE PIER

Location - Pier Parking Deck

"100 minute Birthday Party" with a concert featuring award-winning A Capella Group "Vybration",
"The Big Bamboo Steel Band" and the legendary "King of Surf Guitar" Dick Dale.

8:25 p.m. - 8:50 p.m.
"CENTENNIAL SOUNDS AND LIGHTS"

Find your spot on the beach or at one of the Pier's Restaurants and get ready for a once in a lifetime display.

8:50 p.m. - 9:15 p.m.
GRAND FIREWORKS FINALE

For More Information Read more...

Weekend Warrior: Last Weekend of August and The Maggie List

by Susan Choi

August 27, 2009

Hello Savvy readers! This is my last post. Thanks for your support over this past year! And without further ado, here are the happenings this weekend:

Family Saturdays at the Ford Theatre ends this Saturday with its final show starting at 10 am. This year's theme is Big!World!Fun! Hula Halau Ka Lehua Uluwehi I Ka Lani will be performing Hawaiian Breezes which celebrates the beauty of Hawaii through hula dancing. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. This week's science-based preshow activity is Fire: Minerals. Children can run tests to determine the best way to identify minerals using their very own take-home mineral field guide. The workshop begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

The Skirball Cultural Center continues its Family Amphitheater Performance series this weekend. On Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm, the ensemble music group, Masanga Marimba, performs music from Latin America and Africa on Zimbabwean marimbas. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, Kinetic Theory will be performing their amazing circus theatre.

Also at the Skirball on Sunday at 10 am and 1 pm, it will host the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium for a Sea Life Savers event. Your children can interact with live sea creatures and learn about preservation. Entrance to Noah's Ark included with the purchase of tickets.

The Getty Museum is hosting its final Garden Concert for Kids Series on Saturday and Sunday at 4 pm. This week's performer is Justin Roberts. I heart Justin Roberts and so do my kids. Catchy, funny, singable songs are his specialty.

The Craft and Folk Art Museum is holding a "Listen, Learn and Make Family Workshop" entitled Beauty at Your Feet on Saturday from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Come make your own Rangoli--a popular art form in India. RSVP required.

The Japanese American National Museum is hosting Taiko Drums for Family workshop at 3 pm. Learn basic technique and play the big drums! At 2 pm, enjoy a tour of the current exhibit Common Ground: The Heart of Community.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting a Family festival on Sunday from 12:30 pm to 4 pm. The museum will celebrate the many cultures that make up our city. The children will get to add their artwork to a multicultural mural!

Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park is hosting a free summer concert series. It is a casual, open-lawn venue where you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert that is family friendly and free! Target is hosting the Children's Night concert series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. This Sunday, The Handsome Little Devil will be performing a vaudeville act called the Squirm Burpee Circus.

Finally, check out The Maggie List. An LA mom of twin four year-olds reviews books, music, movies and magazines, and shares which ones are appropriate and entertaining for preschoolers.What a great idea!

Read more...

Weekend Warrior: Museum Concerts for Kids

by Susan Choi

August 13, 2009

Many of the local museums are hosting special kids programs for the summer. Take advantage as the summer draws to a close (already!?!).

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting Rhymin' Reason on Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm. Two science and nature-loving teachers write and sing fun songs about everything from bugs to the stars in the sky. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, Kutturan Chamoru perform Authentic Micronesian Chamoru dance.

The Getty Museum is hosting a Garden Concert for Kids Series on Saturday and Sunday at 4 pm. This week's performers are Recess Monkey--three Seattle-based elementary school teachers who write songs from their experiences in the classrooms. Their music evokes the sounds of the Beatles but with children's themes.

Celebrate summer at the Japanese American National Museum on Saturday starting at 11 am with the 11th annual Summer Festival on the Courtyard: Kaeru's Carnival. Enjoy this free event with face painting, Taiko drums, obon dancing, and arts and crafts. There will also be a BBQ lunch available to purchase--proceeds go to supporting the museum's programs.

Family Saturdays at the Ford Theatre continues on Saturdays at 10 am and runs through the end of this month. This year's theme is Big!World!Fun! Celtic Spring will be performing An Earthquake of Irish Dance. Celtic Spring is a family who plays the fiddle and does Irish step-dancing, musically backed by the parents. They were finalists of the TV show America's Got Talent. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. This week's science-based preshow activity is to be announced. Workshop begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

The monthly series called Drum Downtown continues at the Music Center. Come this Saturday from 10 am to 11:30 am and enjoy this free event (first come, first served). Hand drums, shakers, tambourines, and other percussion instruments will be provided for you and your children to rock out.

Ilen Cohen and her puppet Woody will be continuing the Saturday Storytelling Series at Children's Book World this Saturday at 10:30 am.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Today's craft will be making a Muñecas quitapenas, or Guatemalan worry dolls, which help children forget their troubles and fall asleep.

Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park is hosting a free summer concert series. It is a casual, open-lawn venue where you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert that is family friendly and free! Target is hosting the Children's Night concert series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. This Sunday, it is Choo Choo Soul from Playhouse Disney. Genevieve the Conductor will take your family on a tour of fun songs along with beatboxing and breakdancing by cool kid DC.

Weekend Warrior: Whale Watching

by Susan Choi

August 06, 2009

With the weather becoming more mild over the next few days, I hope you get a chance to go out and enjoy the weekend!

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting Rhythm Child on Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm. Rhythm Child leads families in an interactive drumming experience that my kids love! On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, Sunshine Storyteller, Ina Buckner-Barnette, is a masterful performer. She weaving together humor, songs, and games in her retelling of international folktales and poems.

Family Saturdays at the Ford Theatre has begun this month at 10 am and runs through the end of August. This year's theme is Big!World!Fun! DreamDance will be performing Dancing in the Rain. This Chinese dance troupe mixes ancient elements with contemporary styles to create of show bursting with lights, colors, and sounds. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. This week's preshow activity is Junior Scientist Workshop--"Earth: Fossils." Explore and sketch Ammonite fossils. Each participant gets their own Junior Scientist Journal. Workshop begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

There is a lot of activities occurring at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro. The Research Library is turning four! There will be stories, crafts and other activities to celebrate on Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. The aquarium is also hosting a blue and humpback whale watching expedition on Saturday from 9 am to 12 noon. The boat leaves from San Pedro and travels through the Catalina Channel. Registration is required.

The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is hosting Shark Sundays. At 3:30 pm, they will feed the hungry sharks and make a short presentation. Short films are shown at scheduled intervals throughout the afternoon.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Today's craft will be designing your own Persian-style rug to make a magic carpet.

Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park is hosting a free summer concert series. It is a casual, open-lawn venue where you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert that is family friendly and free! Target is hosting the Children's Night concert series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. This Sunday, it is Aaron Nigel Smith and the FUNdamentals band. Mr Smith and his band brings upbeat sounds and fun dance moves to the stage in a program that the whole family will enjoy.

Read more...

Weekend Warrior: The First Weekend of August and a Starbucks Giftcard Giveaway!

by Susan Choi

July 30, 2009

Can you believe August is here? My family will be car shopping this weekend. Would a spoiler and gold kit on a minivan look totally pathetic? Yeah, I thought so...

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting Bali and Beyond on Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm. Enjoy the enchanting sounds of the Gamelan, an Indonesian ensemble of instruments built and tuned to play together. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, Melissa Green shares her folk pop songs that children love.

Marina Del Rey is hosting free concerts at Burton Chace Park. This Saturday at 7 pm, the oldies singers Four Aces will perform. So bring a picnic dinner, gather together with friends, and enjoy the wonderful scenery of the marina. Be sure to bring blankets or chairs for sitting.

Family Saturdays at the Ford Theatre continues this Saturday at 10 am and runs through the end of August. This year's theme is Big!World!Fun! J.U.i.C.E (Justice by Uniting Creative Energy). and the Hip Hop Handbook present a Hurricane of Hip Hop. The basic elements of Hip hop come together in a perfect storm of street art channeled for peaceful expression. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. This week's preshow activity is to be announced. Workshop begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

On Saturday from 12:30 pm to 5 pm, Cirque du Soleil celebrates its 25th anniversary by performing for families at the Grove. Special presentations from each of its six resident shows will be performed. Additionally, there will be face painting, jugglers and other circus activities for children.

The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is hosting Shark Sundays. At 3:30 pm, they will feed the hungry sharks and make a short presentation. Short films are shown at scheduled intervals throughout the afternoon.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Today's theme will be Russian Matryoska nesting dolls.

Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park is hosting a free summer concert series. It is a casual, open-lawn venue where you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert that is family friendly and free! Target is hosting the Children's Night concert series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. This Sunday, it is Silk and Thunder--traditional dances from Korea, Japan and China.

Finally, Starbucks. Ahhh! So we all love their coffee, right? Now there is more reason to indulge in a pastry. All their food is now free of artificial flavors, dyes, trans fats, and high fructose corn syrup. Now you can feel a little less guilty when you share a cookie with your kid. To celebrate, Starbucks has generously offered me two $5 gift cards to share with two lucky Savvy readers. Please leave a comment below and share your favorite pastry indulgence. Be sure to include your email address! Two winners will be randomly chosen next Thursday at 12 midnight PST. Good luck!

Weekend Warrior: Last Weekend of July

by Susan Choi

July 23, 2009

There is so much to do this weekend around the LA area, so let's get right to it...

Family Saturdays at the Ford Theatre has begun this month at 10 am and runs through the end of August. This year's theme is Big!World!Fun! This week's performers are the Masanga Marimba. This ensemble music group performs music from Latin America and Africa on Zimbabwean marimbas. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. This week's preshow activity is entitled, Junior Scientist Workshop--Air: Butterfly and Bugs. Your child can draw different wings of bugs based on the many specimens that will be available for viewing. Workshop begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

The Santa Monica Playhouse is hosting a Cinderella Gala Grand Masquerade Ball on Saturday at 6:30 pm. Come dressed up in costumes (or your own idea of grand ball attire), and prepare to be royally entertained! With dinner, dancing with a prince, face painting and more, this is sure to be an evening your little prince or princess will not forget. Proceeds from this evening the Santa Monica Playhouse Diversity-in-Education Family Theatre Program.

On Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is hosting Sizzlin' Summer Sandcastle Day. Bring your own supplies and help your kids build something fun in the sand.

The Wiggles Go Bananas at the Gibson Amphitheatre this Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 pm and 5 pm. Kids of all ages love the Wiggles and seeing them live is a real treat!

Ellen Switkes will be continuing the Saturday Storytelling Series at Children's Book World this Saturday at 10:30 am.

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting Contra-Tiempo on Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm. The urban Latino dance theater troupe performs salsa-inspired dances. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, you can listen to the Karen Golden tell stories from around the world, accompanied by her saxophone.

The Skirball is also hosting a family event called The Science of Super Heroes on Sunday at 10 am and 1 pm. Join the Scarlet Scientist and investigate the secrets behind some of comic books' greatest heroes! Through hands-on experiments, expose the truth behind various super powers such as flight, x-ray vision, and lightning speed. Tickets to this event also grants you entrance to Noah's Ark.

Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park is hosting a free summer concert series. It is a casual, open-lawn venue where you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert that is family friendly and free! Target is hosting the Children's Night concert series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. This Sunday, it is youth talent night. Youth from Westlake and surrounding communities will be the stars.

The Fowler Museum at UCLA is hosting a Kids in the Courtyard art session on Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm. Make a kangaroo mask and then compete in a leaping contest! The Summer Sunset concert featuring Dave's Aussie Bush Band begins at 4 pm. The native Australian music group will perform folk and pop songs from Down Under.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Today's theme will be Korean kites.

Read more...

Weekend Warrior: Farmers Market 75th Anniversary

by Susan Choi

July 16, 2009

Another gorgeous weekend with options galore for us Angelenos. Be adventurous! Do something different! There is so much to do, just a short car ride away.

The Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax (next to the Grove) is celebrating its 75th anniversary this week! They are hosting a big event all weekend long for families. On Saturday from 11 am to 3:00 pm, Radio Disney Street team, face painting and marionettes will be featured. On Sunday from 11 am to 5:30 pm, magicians, masamba marimba music, face painting and rain stick making workshop will be available. For more information on the specific schedule, please click here.

The Skirball Cultural Center continues its Family Amphitheater Performance series this weekend. On Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm, Wildlife on Wheels invites families to interact with a variety of exotic animals-from the scaly to the furry-and discuss the role these creatures play in their habitats. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, Chinese Lion Dance will perform with intricate costumes and powerful drums. Watch and learn as the dynamic choreography tells a story about a wild Chinese lion that is tamed and taught to dance.

Levitt Pavilion at MacArthur Park is hosting a free summer concert series. It is a casual, open-lawn venue where you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert that is family friendly and free! Target is hosting the Children's Night concert series on Sunday evenings at 6:30 pm. This Sunday, Bob Baker and his famous marionettes will be performing.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. In Mexico, artists make bright painted tin pictures of fish, lizards, hearts and stars. Paint your own tin while learning more about this beautiful work.

Read more...

Weekend Warrior: The Circus and Ford Family Saturdays

by Susan Choi

July 09, 2009

The weekend is upon us soon! There are a plethora of options for you and your child. With the weather so warm these days, you may want to skip all the special events and just head to the beach. You just might spot our family there too!

Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus is in town! Click here to find out more details on the circus, including a special ticket offering for Savvy readers!

Family Saturdays at the Ford Theatre has begun this month at 10 am and runs through the end of August. This year's theme is Big!World!Fun! This week's performers are the On Ensemble. This group of drummers infuse traditional taiko Japanese drumming with musical influences from hip-hop, rock and electronica. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. Science-based arts and crafts session begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting the Taiko Center of Los Angeles on Saturday at 12 noon and 2 pm. Come listen to the ancient Japanese drumming style. On Sunday at 12 noon and 2 pm, you can listen to the LA Outback play Australia' most popular instrument, the didgeridoo.

The Craft and Folk Art Museum is holding a "Listen, Learn and Make Family Workshop" on Saturday from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. You and your child can make your own shadow-boxes using the images of birds and other items, inspired by artist Joseph Cornell. RSVP required. $6 per child.

Critter Club is for three to five years olds at the Natural History Museum. This Saturday at 10 am, the museum is celebrating the slimy and the scaly critters that call the Discovery Center home as well as their cousins from around the world. Listen to stories, play games, and make a scaly craft to take home. With special guests, the California Herpetological Association! Free with museum admission. From 12 noon to 5 pm, the celebration continues with Reptile and Amphibian Appreciation Day. Come to the Discovery Center in the museum to meet radical reptiles and fabulous frogs. Meet reptiles and take a picture with them too! There will also be crafts and activities and reptile story times.

The Japanese American National Museum is hosting a family day on Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm. You and your child can explore the colorful world of Asian-American books. Admission is free all day with special activities such as book readings and crafts. From 1 pm to 4 pm, you can make your own maple granola fruit parfaits with Kidding around the Kitchen. At 2 pm, Nathaniel Lachenmeyer will read and sign his book, "The Origami Master" with a special activity to follow.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. This week's theme is the Lion of Judah. Make a lion mask and learn about Ethiopia.

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Weekend Warrior: Independence Day

by Susan Choi

July 02, 2009

Fireworks! I am a kid at heart when it comes to fireworks. It is hard to not ooh and aah when you see the explosion of lights and color strewn across the sky. I love it! There are a lot of options when it comes to Fourth of July celebrations on Saturday. Check out the Los Angeles Fire Department's website for Fireworks Shows in Los Angeles County. I'll highlight the ones that are local.

Go to the Hollywood Bowl for an amazing night of fireworks and music. The LA Philharmonic performs with John Fogerty, the guitar and voice of Creedence Clearwater Revival, as the special guest. Concert starts at 7:30 pm. Go early and bring a picnic dinner to enjoy while on the grounds.

Enjoy a game of soccer at the Home Depot Center in Carson and a post-game fireworks extravaganza. The LA Galaxy play against the New England Revolution. Game starts at 8 pm with the fireworks show immediately afterward.

The Exchange Club of Culver City (a non-profit organization focused on preventing child abuse) is hosting a fireworks show at Culver City High School. Gates open at 5 pm with the fireworks starting at 9 pm. There will be live entertainment, food to purchase, and a raffle. You can see the fireworks from Veteran's Park as well as other areas around Culver City.

The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum is hosting a Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza. This event is free and begins at 9 pm.

There will be two fireworks shows in Malibu from the barges off the coast. One show will be near the Country Mart and the other close to Paradise Beach. Both shows will begin at 9 pm.

There will also be a fireworks show in Marina Del Rey from the barges off the coast. It will be visible near Admiralty and Fiji Way, and will begin at 9:15 pm.

Palisades Charter High School is hosting an Independence Day Fireworks and Concert. Entertainment begins at 6:30 pm with the fireworks show beginning at approximately 9 pm. Bring a picnic dinner while enjoying the live entertainment!

Seaside Lagoon is the venue for the 3rd Annual Seaside Lagoon Independence Day Celebration. Gates open at 2 pm. There will be a lot of kid's activities from swimming in the Seaside Lagoon to Jim Gamble and his puppets, Mad Science workshops, and holiday-themed crafts. Food and drinks for purchase and live entertainment will also be available. The Kids Freedom Parade begins at 7:30 pm and fireworks starts at 9:30 pm. Be sure to reserve your seats today!

For the 57th year, Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro will host a free 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks show. Activities begin at 12 noon with local bands and orchestra playing, Naval vessel tours, Armed Forces and US Coast Guard demonstrations, canon firings, and of course, fireworks at 9 pm. Bring a picnic dinner!

Weekend Warrior: Last Weekend of June

by Susan Choi

June 25, 2009

It is the last weekend of June and school is officially out for most kids. What to do to kick off the summer break? Take your pick...

Kidspace Museum in Pasadena is turning thirty! On Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm, there will be a celebration with party games, music, balloons, and more all weekend long. Families can share their favorite Kidspace memory on an anniversary mural, make a party hat and more! And on Saturday, yummy birthday cake will be served!

Join the Musical Coopers for a musical sea-faring adventure at the Mark Taper Auditorium in the Central Library on Saturday from 2 pm to 3 pm. A pirate or two will be making an appearance!

Another chance to visit the open house of the bureau of sanitation. This Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm, visit the West Los Angeles District Yard for truck demonstration and tours, free food and games, 15 gallon citrus tree adoptions and free mulch. What a great way to teach children about recycling!

The Fowler Museum at UCLA is hosting a Summer Sunset concert featuring Mamifero on Sunday at 4 pm. The local musicians present an eclectic mix of musical styles incorporating the didgeridoo and more.

The Autry National Center at Griffith Park is hosting a family playhouse program on Sunday from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. This Sunday theme will be Dragon boat racing. Check out the Family Discovery Gallery to learn more about one of China's most ancient traditions and make dragon boat puppets to race at home.

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting a Family Weekend Workshop on Sunday. The second session is already sold out so act quickly to reserve space for the 11:30 am session that is still available. Tour the Zap! Pow! Bam! The Superhero: The Golden Age of Comic Books: 1938-1950 exhibit and then join comic book artist Crystal Webb to create your own comic book hero. Tickets for the 11:30 am workshop includes a 10 am entrance to Noah's Ark exhibit.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. This week's theme is Messy Science featuring squishy, slimy, and unusual science experiments made from household items. Read more...

Weekend Warrior: Father's Day

by Susan Choi

June 18, 2009

This weekend is Father's Day! Celebrate the dads in your life with some homemade pancakes (courtesy of the kids), neckties (courtesy of Bloomie's), and a special activity to honor the superhero in your life.

The Craft and Folk Art Museum is holding a "Listen, Learn and Make Family Workshop" on Saturday from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. to create a unique gift for dad while reusing recycled materials. Bring in small objects and other forgotten treasures, and make something special for dad. A selection of materials with also be provided. RSVP required.

Lakeshore Learning Stores are hosting a free crafts for kids event on Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm. Your kids can make, what else, a tie for dad.

Come celebrate the centennial anniversary of the Santa Monica Pier with the School's Out Event on Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm. They will feature a variety of top-notch activities and performances for families and kids of all ages including the Cirque du Soleil "Circus Play Area," a lot of different interactive dance activities and performances, a puppet show, and fitness and art activities. Also, check out a new interactive kid's guide of the pier.

The Rogue Artists Ensemble is performing The Story of Frog Belly Rat Bone on Saturday at 10 am and 2 pm, and Sunday at 2 pm. The story is brought to life by using music, puppetry and projections. "Pay what you can" for admission.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Your kids can make, what else, a tie for dad. Free admission for dads.

Kathleen Zundell will be continuing the Saturday Storytelling Series at Children's Book World this Saturday at 10:30 am. With her puppet pal, Philbert, Kathleen engages children with silly jokes, tales, and poems. Free to the public.

Kim Wayans and Kevin Knotts, author of Amy Hodgepodge will be at the Central Library on Sunday at 2 pm. Amy Hodgepodge is a story of a multi-ethnic fourth grade girl and her adventures in a new city.

Read more...

Weekend Warrior: Ralph's World and Ziggy Marley

by Susan Choi

June 04, 2009

There are some very cool activities going on this weekend so let's get right to it!

Ralph's World and Lisa Loeb will be performing at the Echoplex on Saturday at 11 am. If you haven't heard any of Ralph's World's songs, go to his website right now. He is a very cool kid's musician and his music is fun for adults to listen to, too! Lisa Loeb joins him for this not-to-be-missed concert.

Hey, man! Another amazing concert happening this Saturday at 10:30 am at Club Nokia, LA Live is a Reggae concert starring Ziggy Marley. It is a family concert featuring music from his latest album Ziggy Marley Family Time so children are encouraged to attend.

If you just can't get enough music this weekend, check out the LA Acoustic Music Festival at the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 10 pm. Check out the website for a list of scheduled performers. This festival benefits the California Acoustic Music Project which is a non-profit organization "whose mission is to provide California School children the benefit of music education every day."

Want to make a difference for children fighting life-threatening illnesses? Join the Second Annual Walk for Wishes benefiting the Make-a-Wish Foundation at the AT&T Center downtown on Saturday. The two-mile walk starts at 9 am. You can register now by going to their website or do walk up registration.

The 2009 Leimert Park Village Book Fair is also on Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. This book fair, which was started to encourage literacy in Los Angeles, will features many different children's book authors. There will be food samplings made by celebrity chefs in the organic farmer's market. Face painting, clowns, a crafts pavilion and a magician will all be featured in the Children's Village. In addition, Scribble Press from the Westside Pavilion will offer an opportunity for youth to write, create, and publish their own books on the spot.

This may sound unusual to visit the open house of the bureau of sanitation but at the same time, when would you have the opportunity to go? This Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm, visit the South Los Angeles District Yard for truck demonstration and tours, free food and games, 15 gallon citrus tree adoptions and free mulch. What a great way to teach children about recycling!

Japanese American National Museum will be hosting, Beat The June Gloom: a hands on family cooking class this Saturday at 11 am. It is an interactive family cooking class of simple summertime treats the whole family can enjoy. $25 per parent/child pair for members and $35 per parent/child pair for non-members. Be sure to reserve your spot by calling the museum.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Passport to the World: Greece is the theme this week. You and your children will explore the art and culture of Greece.

It is story time at Southwest Museum of American Indian on Sunday from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. Two beautifully illustrated Navajo stories, The Unbreakable Code by Sara Hoagland Hunter, illustrated by Julia Miner and Turquoise Boy, written and adapted by Terri Cohlene and illustrated by Charles Reasoner will be read followed by a hands-on, docent-led activity. Read more...

Weekend Warrior: Fairies, Strawberries, and Children

by Susan Choi

May 14, 2009

My family recently went to Disneyworld and my girls have decided that they are now in love with fairies. They still love the princesses, but they have added Tinkerbell, Silvermist, and Iridessa to their list of beloved Disney characters. So we are definitely going to check out the Faery Hunt at Griffith Park. If you don't have fairy lovers in your family, surely you have strawberry lovers, right? There is a lot going on for whatever might tickle your fancy.

At Griffith Park (Fern Dell Entrance) this Saturday at 10:30 am, A Faery Hunt will be performing their interactive show. It includes messages about kindness, respect, and ecological responsibility. Your little fairies are sure to love it--costumes are welcome! $10 per person. Can't make it this Saturday? Check out the website for the ongoing schedule.

Children's Day is a big holiday in Japan. The Japanese American Cultural and Community Center is celebrating it here in the states on Saturday with a kids' run, taiko drumming, cultural discovery workshops, an arts and crafts fair, and more! Check out the website for all the events happening this day in Little Toyko. Registration for the run begins at 7:30 am with a free pancake breakfast. Festivities last until 4 pm.

The California Strawberry Festival is happening this weekend in Oxnard. Bring your strawberry loving kids to this fun and eco-conscious festival that celebrates everyone's favorite fruit! Music, art and crafts, and of course, a ton of strawberries to eat in every way imaginable. Festivities start from 10 am and last until 7 pm.

Children's Book World is hosting Shawn Bjorklund for a book reading of her latest book, G is For Goat's Groovy Galoshes. A fun book with silly surprises, your little one will most certainly enjoy. The reading is on Saturday at 10:30 am.

Star Eco Station in Culver City is hosting a Children's Art Festival. If you haven't visited Star Eco before, it is a great opportunity to check out this wonderful place. Local young artists will display their work on Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, and other art activities will be available.

McCabe's is hosting another Sunday matinee kid's show headlining Courtney Campbell. Co-creator and star of Mustard Pancakes (seen on the ION network), Courtney is a singer, songwriter and imaginative storyteller. Show starts at 11 am.

Another collaborative art project is being hosted by the Zimmer Museum this Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Ceramic tiles, paints, and stencils will be used to create a mosaic artwork for the museum. How cool! Your child's collaborative masterpiece will be on display for all to see.

Read more...

An Annual Treat: Hollywood Bowl SummerSounds Kids Concerts

by Susan Choi

May 13, 2009

Every year, the Hollywood Bowl hosts a special kids concert series called SummerSounds. It features great concerts created especially for kids and a Fine Arts Outdoor Studio. The program is held each weekday from July 6th to August 14th and is geared for three to nine year olds. Every two weeks, they focus on a different location and the music and arts from there. This year they are focusing on Brazil, Mexico and India. Local artists perform and the kids truly enjoy the program. The ticket prices are reasonable ($7 for the concert and $5 for the art program). I intend on attending with friends this summer. Hope to see you there!

Weeks 1 and 2

Jul 6 - 10
Jul 13 - 17

Brazil on the Westside

Music: From its base on the Westside, the Swing Brazil Dance Company and their director Vida Vierra invite you to join them in celebrating the spirit of Carnaval with congas, percussion, keyboards and samba whistle. The rich cultural heritage of Brazil thrives in our own backyard — come learn how to dance orixa with your neighbors!

Art: Get into the spirit of Carnaval at the Art Workshop — paint pictures, make a beaded necklace, and much more.

Weeks 3 and 4

Jul 20 - 24
Jul 27 - Jul 31

Mexico in East Los Angeles

Music: Musician, teacher, instrument-maker and more, Cesar Castro brings to life the spirit of his beloved East Los Angeles by leading a fandango — the colorful celebration where musicians, dancers, poets and the community gather around the platform (tarima) to sing and dance. Come learn about the hidden treasure that is East Los Angeles, now a thriving home to the musical style called son jarocho.

Art: °Viva la arte! Come to the Art Workshop and make a beaded painting, sculpt a Day of the Dead mask, and much more.

Weeks 5 and 6

Aug 3 - 7
Aug 10 - 14

India — Little India in Artesia

Music: Shakti Dance Ensemble, led by Viji Prakash, brings the spice-laden neighborhood of Artesia's Little India to the Bowl to share the traditional roots of Bharata natyam, with its complex foot patterns, striking facial expressions and vivid story telling. Dance and music are inseparable as the performers bring you into their magical circle, dancing and acting out Indian folk tales and other touching stories.

Art: Celebrate vibrant Indian art at the Art Workshop — create a sculpture, make a sand painting, and much more.

Weekend Warrior: Cinco de Mayo

by Susan Choi

April 30, 2009

May is here and as usual, there are a lot of things going on this weekend. I will be sharing more about the Swine Flu epidemic on Monday. Until then, please be sure to be more vigilant with hand washing, but do not let this put a damper on your weekend fun. As far as is known, it is contracted like any other flu virus. Thorough hand washing and general hygiene is your best protection.

Are there any kids out there who don't love Bert and Ernie? On Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm, these Sesame Street characters will be at the Los Angeles Zoo.

And speaking of puppets, Bob Baker and his marionettes will be at Kidspace Children's Museum in Pasadena on Saturday at 2 pm. If you haven't seen this LA legend in action, it is worth the drive. His show is free with admission to the museum.

Cinco de Mayo is coming next week. To celebrate the "Batalla de Puebla," go to historic Olvera Street from 11 am to 9 pm on Saturday and Sunday. The usual ethnic food and merchant vendors will be present, as well as a variety of educational workshops and classes on piñata and Mexican-flag making.

The Autry National Center is also celebrating Cinco de Mayo with their annual Viva El Cinco family festival. Mariachis, lively ballet folklorico, and skillful charros will be performed. Puppet performances and yummy Mexican tacos and salsa round out the celebration.

If you wish to spend the day celebrating Yoga, YogaBuddies is hosting a party at Virginia Avenue Park in Santa Monica to commemorate their five-year anniversary . Come on Saturday at 1 pm to 3:30 pm. They will host a free kids' yoga class, have crafts, games, and raffle prizes.

On Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm, head over to the Museum of Contemporary Art (LA MOCA) for Big Family Day. Enjoy free admission to look at the exhibits, hear live music, watch dance performances. There will also be an opportunity to creat your own family art.

Grammy-nominated Zak Morgan will be performing at McCabe's in Santa Monica on Sunday at 11 am. His motto, "I can do it," is wonderfully conveyed through his musical performance. Tickets are $8.

Weekend Warrior: Last Week of April and a Pat on My Back

by Susan Choi

April 23, 2009

I feel like I say this every month but I can't believe it is already the end of the month! April flew by and May is around the corner. For many students, May is the last month of school! Yikes! Already? Do you have your summer plans set yet? If not, check out the Camps and Classes section of the main Savvy Source site. I'll share a few favorites on Tuesday. Until then, there are some fun activities available this weekend--many of them are free to the public!

Is your daughter a Fancy Nancy fan? Then RSVP for a special Storyopolis and the Geffen Playhouse event featuring Robin Press Glasser, the illustrator of the Fancy Nancy books. She will be presenting her new book Tea for Ruby, which was written by Sarah Ferguson, the dutchess of York. This free event is on Saturday at 11 am. Advance RSVP is required by emailing education (at) geffenplayhouse (dot) com. Please indicate the number of people in your party.

On Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, the Los Angeles Times is hosting their annual Festival of Books at UCLA. This event features authors and musicians, and has something for everyone, regardless of your subject preference or age. This event is free but tickets are required for indoor panel and speaker sessions (available through ticketmaster.com).

Taiko Center of LA will be performing at the Mark Taper Auditorium on Saturday at 2 pm. The mission of the Taiko Center of LA is to preserve this Japanese art form of drumming. Therefore performances are often free to the public, and participation in classes and workshops is welcomed.

Pillow Theatre at the LA Music Center is hosting another free event for preschoolers. This month's performance is ZunZun, musical theatre duo Stephen Snyder and Gwynne Cropsey, blend a variety of folkloric instruments, storytelling and comedy to celebrate the vast array of sights, sounds, stories and songs of the endangered rain forests of the Americas. The Rain Forest Sings (La Selva Canta) is a musical journey filled with songs about monkeys, snakes, jaguars, the rainforest canopy, and an orchestra of birds performed in Spanish, English and Portuguese. Performances are at 10 am and 11 am. This event is free but tickets are required. The box office will be open one hour prior to each performance.

The Murad Inclusive Health Center and Spa invites all new, seasoned and expecting moms to enjoy a day filled with treats and tips for moms and moms-to-be. On Saturday from 12 noon to 4 pm, Murad's team of experts will provide guests with the most up-to-date tips and trends in diet, nutrition and acupuncture. Indulge in Mama Mio and Mineral Essence products and free makeovers and receive a complimentary Murad gift product for scheduling a Murad signature treatment. Attendees will enjoy a free 30 minute yoga class, receive Murad Skin evaluations and be pampered! No cost to attend, just RSVP.

At the Skirball Cultural Center on Sunday at 10 am, create your very own 3D superhero figure to take home. After drawing inspiration from the galleries, head over to the art studio and use clay, glue, fabric, and other special materials. Fee includes admission to workshop and Noah's Ark: $25 Child-Adult Pair; $15 Member Child-Adult Pair; $5 per additional Adult or Child. Entrance to Noah's Ark at 10 am and studio art workshop begins at 11:30 am.

This weekend, there are two really important walks you can participate in:
March for Babies is sponsored by March of Dimes. It will be held at Exposition Park on Saturday at 8 am (registration at 7 am).
Children's Cancer Research Fund is sponsoring a Kids 4 Kids 5K Run/Walk in Century City on Sunday at 10 am (registration at 8 am).
Please click on the respective links for more information and to register.

Not to toot my own horn but GoCityKids-LA added West LA Savvy Source as an exceptional local blog site for parents. If you like us too, go on their site to get more information on other events going on throughout the week, and give us a rating and review (subliminal text: five stars, best local blog). Thanks!

Weekend Warrior: Easter and Passover

by Susan Choi

April 09, 2009

Easter is here! My children love Easter--the egg hunts, the chocolate bunnies, the Peeps. Even though the weather is still on the mild side, go out and enjoy all that Easter has to offer. For many families, this is an opportunity to go to church, and for others, it is a chance to get the whole family together for dinner.

Passover has also begun at sundown yesterday--families get together for the Seder and celebrate the historic deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. Whatever your traditions may be, I wish you a wonderful weekend of family gatherings and joyous events.

If you wish to commemorate Easter by attending a service, consider the following Easter services:

Easter Sunrise Service at the Hollywood Bowl: Easter service with a multi-denominational clergy, a 240 voice choir, 250 children in the Living Cross, and Children's Choirs in nature's cathedral, decorated with thousands of Easter Lilies, and ending with the mass release of the White Birds of Peace. Service is from 5:30 am to 7 am. The parking is free.

Also at the Hollywood Bowl is the Bel Air Presbyterian Easter Service. A modern worship band, a professional orchestra, and a 100-person choir with the senior pastor of Bel Air Presbyterian sharing an Easter message, beginning at 11 am. Free parking.

If you wish to just stick to bunnies, go to Big Bunny's Spring Fling at the LA Zoo! Kids can pet live bunnies, make bunny ears, get their face painted, and help plant carrot seeds. Musicians, puppet shows, and the Easter bunny round out the celebration. From Friday through Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm.

If you want to have your kids run around for a few hours and load them up with sugar, then look at my previous post about Easter Egg hunts in the area.

If Spring Fever is equal to Dance Fever for you, then check out Baby Loves Disco . This month's theme is Earth Day celebration. So put on your organic bamboo tie-dye tees and head on over to the Cinespace in Hollywood on Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm. $15 in advance, $18 at door.

Hunting for an Egg Hunt?

by Susan Choi

April 07, 2009

When my older daughter just turned one, we met an amazing group of friends through Gymboree Play n Music. These friends had a standing playdate every Thursday so we ended up hanging out at least twice a week, sometimes more. It was a tough transition when our children went to preschool. We no longer saw each other on a regular basis and it was hard scheduling playdates with all of their conflicting schedules. But the one event we have kept constant is the annual Easter egg hunt.

When the kids were two years old, we organized an Easter egg hunt. It was cute to see the kids walking around the grassy area, picking up an egg, carefully inspecting it, putting it in their basket, and then moving on to another egg. Sometimes they got distracted by a leaf on the ground, or a distant squirrel, or a meandering cloud, before they resumed their search for another egg. Now, four years later, these eggs are actually filled with goodies, and we've had to establish rules so the younger siblings can participate fairly. The kids race around the grassy fields and the egg hunt is over in five minutes. Times have changed, but fortunately, the friendships have not for both parents and children alike.

Many local recreation centers are sponsoring egg hunts on their turf. Here is a list of a few favorites:

Rustic Canyon Recreation Center--Friday, April 10th at 2 pm for ages 2 to 10. Bring your own baskets.
Westwood Recreation Center--Saturday, April 11th at 10 am to 1 pm for ages 11 and under. In addition to the egg hunt, there will be a bounce house, games and a special appearance by the Easter bunny.
Mar Vista Recreation Center--Saturday, April 11th at 11 am to 2:30 pm. The egg hunt for 2-4 year olds is at 11 am. In addition to the egg hunt, there will be pony rides, petting zoo, crafts, games and food for sale. Bring your own basket.

If you want to organize your own egg hunt, consider the following parks:

Will Rogers State Park--We have a picnic lunch and then scatter the eggs on the polo field.
Westwood Park --There are many grassy areas adjacent to Aidan's Place to host an egg hunt.
Virginia Avenue Park--There is a big grassy area where soccer games are played and the farmer's market is held.

Weekend Warrior: Last Weekend of March and Special VIP Event at Pottery Barn Kids at the Grove

by Susan Choi

March 26, 2009

It is hard to believe the end of the month is already here. There are a lot of activities this weekend, and it is supposed to be perfect weather, so go out and enjoy!

Japanese American National Museum will be hosting the Spring Rolls into JANM event this Saturday at 11 am! It is an interactive family cooking class of assorted Asian food, including, what else, spring rolls! $25 per parent/child pair for members and $35 per parent/child pair for non-members. Be sure to reserve your spot by calling the museum.

Rhythm Child will be beating their drums at Descanso Gardens this Saturday at 1 pm. If you haven't experienced Rhythm Child yet, what better place than the beautiful venue of Descanso Gardens?

Discover Japanese culture with the family festival at the Getty Center this Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. There will be interactive art workshops, puppet shows, craft demonstrations, and Taiko drum playing. Admission to the Getty Center and the festival are both free!

Kathleen Zundell will be continuing the Saturday Storytelling Series at Children's Book World this Saturday at 10:30 am. With her puppet pal, Philbert, Kathleen engages children with silly jokes, tales, and poems. Free to the public.

Swazzle Puppets will be performing at the Mark Taper Auditorium this Saturday at 2 pm. A cheerful troupe of imaginative woodland creatures will be telling Forest Fables, which is based on Aesop's fables and classic fairy tales.

Debi Derryberry will be performing Passover Musical Happening at the Jewish Community Library of LA on Sunday from 3 pm to 4 pm. She is the voice of Jimmy Neutron and a kid's favorite for musical performers.

Create your own mini kite during family playhouse time at the Autry National Center on Sunday from 1 pm to 2:30 pm.

Randy Kaplan will be performing at McCabe's in Santa Monica on Sunday at 11 am. Randy Kaplan sings songs that blend folk, alternative, American roots and pop in a wildly unpredictable show. Tickets are $8.

The Skirball Cultural Center is hosting a Family Weekend Workshop . The theme this Sunday at both 10 am and 1 pm is the Garden of Sand, Stone, and Sprigs. In honor of the Jewish holiday Passover, create and take home your own Zen garden with sand, stones and herbs. Tickets are $15 per parent/child pair for members and $25 per parent/child pair for non-members. Tickets also include admission to Noah's Ark exhibit.

And finally, this Sunday from 8:30 pm to 10 pm, there is a VIP event at the Pottery Barn Kids at the Grove, and Savvy readers are invited! You will be receiving 10% off any purchase (even furniture!) and refreshments will be served.

Weekend Warrior: Spring Equinox and Special Discount for Savvy Readers at Three Cheeky Monkeys

by Susan Choi

March 19, 2009

The weekend is here and Spring is in the air! There are a couple events in LA that are celebrating the advent of Spring. Even though it is still a little chilly, go out and enjoy the fresh air!

Super Spring Show at the Crystal Springs Picnic Area at Griffith Park in LA. On Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm, go to Griffith Park for a family friendly art show and festival. There will be arts and crafts, African dance performances, and a children's film festival. This event is free and sponsored by the 2012 Art Collective.

Spring Art Thing at the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday from 6 am to 6 pm. Artists, young and old, will be at the pier, creating new works of art to celebrate the beginning of spring. So let your children bring their art smocks and easels to paint among the masses, or enjoy watching artists working live.

Preschool story time at the Palms-Rancho Park Library on Saturday from 10:30 am to 11 am. Stories will be read to promote early literacy. There is a great playground right next to the library too!

Make a kite! Every Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm, Lakeshore Learning Stores sponsor free craft activities. This Saturday, in honor of Spring, your children can make a kite.

Kids in the Courtyard series at Fowler Museum at UCLA . Make a hammered foil picture frame inspired by Senegalese artist Moussa Tine on Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm.

Like a lot of West LA moms, I spend too much time at Westside Pavilion with music classes, Gymboree, Barnes and Noble's, etc. I recently rediscovered Three Cheeky Monkeys toy store since the birth of my son. The toy selection here is different from Target or other discount stores, but also very reasonably priced. Three Cheeky Monkeys is moving to the North side of the mall still on the second floor, on the Nordstrom's side with an expanded reading section and more toys to purchase as well as play with onsite. In celebration of the expansion, Three Cheeky Monkeys is offering a 10% discount to Savvy readers over the weekend (from 3/20 to 3/22). Just let them know you are a Savvy reader and they will honor the 10% discount.

Happy shopping and happy Spring!

Weekend Warrior: The First Weekend of March

by Susan Choi

March 05, 2009

When I collect the weekend activities for our Savvy readers, I try to stay within a 10 mile radius. There is so much to do in our neck of the woods that I don't feel it is necessary to venture out further. However, this time, I am including a few more activities a little further away because they seem worthwhile (Debi Derryberry, whale-watching and tide pools, anyone?).

There are a lot of beach related activities this weekend. Unfortunately, rain is in the forecast for the weekend. But if the weather holds out, check out the following:

Every first Saturday of March marks the annual "Whale of a Day" event held at Point Vicente Interpretive Center in Rancho Palos Verdes. This festival celebrates the migration of Pacific Gray whales. The event is free to the public and features many activities for children including crafts and face painting. There will also be food and gift vendors. Hopefully, you will also catch a glimpse of the migrating whales too! From 10 am to 4 pm.

Want to teach your children about volunteering and caring for the earth? Join the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on their Native Garden Workday/Beach Cleanup day from 8 am to 10 am on Saturday. You and your kids will work with the staff and other volunteers to help maintain the Cabrillo Coastal Native Plant Garden as well as help clean up the beach. Registration is required by today (Thursday). Can't make it this Saturday? Join them any first Saturday of the month.

Also at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on Sunday is the Weekend Tide Pool Walk . March is the last month to take part in this free activity. Expose your kids to sea anemones, sea stars, crabs and tide pool fishes. Just be sure to wear warm clothes and shoes with good traction.

If it does rain, here are some other indoor activities:

Wow! Massages for parents, and princess dress-up, face painting and food, while being serenaded by Debi Derryberry? Sounds awesome! Come check out the Royal Dance Party show at the Stardancers Horizon in Glendale from 1 pm to 4 pm on Saturday. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

LA Doll-maker Dorothy Elliott-Taylor will be visiting the Craft and Folk Art Museum on Saturday between 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm to demonstrate how to make a fashionable paper doll . Simple stitching and sewing may be involved, so be prepared to help out your kids. Reservations are required and it is $6 per child.

LA storyteller Karen Golden helps you get into the Purim spirit at the Jewish Community Library of LA on Sunday from 3 pm to 4 pm. This event is free. Read more...

Weekend Warrior: Black History Month

by Susan Choi

February 19, 2009

There is a lot to do this weekend all around LA. Singers singing, artists creating, and people celebrating. Let's get right to it--

On Saturday and Sunday, the LA Zoo will be celebrating Black History Month from 10 am to 5 pm. Listen to gospel, blues and jazz performances and try out different foods. They will also have special arts and crafts available for young children.

At the Craft and Folk Art Museum on Wilshire near the Grove, there will be a special presentation of traditional Persian music. Enjoy a magic carpet ride (a la Aladdin) for an interactive carpet concert with Rowan Storm and Friends. RSVP required and can be made by calling 323.937.4230 x50 or emailing workshops@cafam.org. Performances at 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm.

The Fowler Museum at UCLA, which "explore art and material culture primarily from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, and the Americas, past and present," is hosting its monthly Kids in the Courtyard family drop-in program from 1 pm to 4 pm. The theme this month is Pop Art and children can use soda tabs and bottle caps to create works of art inspired by El Anatsui's sculptures.

Bay Area local David Alexandrou (AKA Mr. David) will be performing his folk and blues-infused rock tunes at Children's Book World. This free event begins at 10 am on Saturday.

LA local Melissa Green will be performing her folky-pop music at McCabe's in Santa Monica on Sunday at 11 am. She teaches music for various local preschools and teaches music workshops inspired by the Reggio-Emilia philosophy. Tickets are $8.

The Zimmer Museum is celebrating Chinese New Year during its Sunday Family Program: Passport Day. This drop-in program is from 2 pm to 4 pm and will have art and music projects prepared by the museum and the Friends of Families with Children from China-SoCal.

If you are willing to make the trek...The Los Angeles Kids Expo is going on this weekend from 10 am to 5 pm at the Pomona Fairplex. There will be plenty of things for the kids to see and do--magic shows, puppet shows, face painting and bounce house (a very short list of activities available). Plus, there will be door prizes given away throughout the day (shopping sprees, Nintendo Wii and family vacations).

Chinese New Year Festivities and a Starbucks Gift Card Giveaway!

by Susan Choi

February 06, 2009

The lunar (or Chinese) new year was January 26 th this year but a lot of festivities are happening this weekend. This is the year of the ox, known for their patience, self-assurance, and stubbornness. Do you want to know what Chinese zodiac sign you are? On Saturday and Sunday, at the LA Zoo from 10am-4pm, there will be a variety of ways to celebrate the new year . There will be Read more...

Looking back at 2008

by Susan Choi

December 30, 2008

What an amazing year it has been at Savvy Source West LA! The site officially launched in May with Nina Moon and she filled the treasure troves with tons of toddler-friendly times. Savvy source West LA has advice on what to do with your kiddies during sunny days , rainy days , weekend days , and special days . Interested in art ? music ? books ? No problem. We've got it covered. Want Read more...

Up Close and Personal: Tournament of Roses Float Decorating

by Susan Choi

December 29, 2008

The New Yorkers have their Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, and we Angelenos have our Tournament of Roses New Year's Day Parade. The parade has a been around for 120 years, and though most floats are now done by professional float building companies, people from all over volunteer to put the final floral decorations on the floats. Viewing the floats mid-production is open to the public, and a Read more...

Weekend Warriors

by Nina Moon

September 05, 2008

As you already know (because you've already entered our giveaway), the LA County Fair starts TODAY. My family is planning on making the trip this weekend for the first time ever and, from what I gather, there's more to do (and, more importantly, eat) than one can possibly imagine. So, get thee to the fair! LA Greek Fest is also taking place this weekend with Greek music, dance, art, food and Read more...

LA County Fair Giveaway!

by Nina Moon

September 03, 2008

It's that time of year - the start of school, fall and the LA County Fair ! Even though I'm an LA native, I've never been to the fair. Actually, I didn't even know about it until I heard a radio program last year talking about the fair and myriad of fried foods featured at the fair. Anybody up for some deep fried White Castle burgers? Or what about pig races (an Oreo for the winner!), a pirate's Read more...

Weekend Warriors

by Nina Moon

August 29, 2008

It seems like just a few weeks ago when I was heralding in the first day of summer, the longest day of the year and the end of the school year. And now suddenly you want to tell me that summer is nearly over? That this is Labor Day weekend? No! Okay, okay, so denial is not the most effective tactic against the onslaught of autumn. Perhaps I should just try and take advantage of what's left of Read more...

Weekend Warriors

by Nina Moon

August 22, 2008

My son and I are big Elizabeth Mitchell fans her children's folk tunes are just the thing for sunny afternoons, both playful and calming. So I'm absolutely psyched to go see her and her family perform at the Getty Center Central Garden this weekend. Pack a picnic and go see this free family concert on Saturday or Sunday at 4 and 5pm. Starting tonight, check out the Fiesta La Ballona festival Read more...

Weekend Warriors -- Fines, Fire Trucks and Festivals

by Nina Moon

August 15, 2008

All of us, I'm sure, have had an overdue library book here or there. But what about those embarrassingly overdue books? Several months, even years, overdue? It's almost easier to just stop going to the library under the weight of that fine, right? Instead, you take advantage of the Los Angeles Public Library's Fine Free Week , which ends this Sunday. And it's still not too late to take Read more...

Mozart, Moby or Miles -- Pershing Square Kids

by Nina Moon

July 16, 2008

One of the best parts of writing for Being Savvy Los Angeles has been discovering the sheer multitude of things to do in this city. For instance, did you know that Los Angeles has an outdoor ice skating rink? In downtown, no less? Pershing Square, a square block of public space in the heart of downtown, transforms into an outdoor skating rink every winter. Obviously that's not the most useful Read more...

Happy Quatorze Juillet

by Nina Moon

July 14, 2008

Our friends in France are celebrating Bastille Day today. And, as a matter of fact, Angelenos were celebrating it on Sunday in WeHo (sorry I missed it for last weekend's Weekend Warriors ). Still, there are plenty of ways to introduce your child to French culture and language in Los Angeles. Not only is Los Angeles home to two different French preschool-12th private schools, each with multiple Read more...

Weekend Warriors

by Nina Moon

July 11, 2008

It's been a long week, hasn't it? I'm really feeling the whole TJIF sentiment today. Even better, this weekend my family will be heading down to my parents' home in the South Bay (free babysitting! Woohoo!). In that vein, we'll start the edition of Weekend Warriors in Redondo Beach, right smack in the heart of the South Bay. On Saturday, why not drive down Redondo Beach? You can spend the day Read more...

Weekend Warriors: Independence Day edition

by Nina Moon

July 04, 2008

If you're not going away for the long weekend or pet sitting for your parents that are (that's us!), there's plenty of Independence Day and non-Independence Day related activities to keep you and your little ones entertained. Of course, tonight you'll need to check out the fireworks . If you miss the fireworks tonight, you can still catch them post game at The Home Depot Center . Saturday Read more...

Essential Summer Music -- Summer Music Festivals In and Around Los Angeles

by Nina Moon

July 01, 2008

Summer has descended and with it has come the annual outdoor music festivals. Unlike indoor concerts where children are generally expected to stay still and quiet (and, really, what fun is that?), these outdoor concerts are the perfect opportunity to expose your child to professional music in a fun, more laid-back environment. They're also perfect for a romantic date with your SO. Of course no Read more...

Los Angeles Fireworks Round-up

by Nina Moon

June 30, 2008

When I was little my parents would lay out a blanket in our front yard and we would watch the fireworks rising above a nearby local park while running up and down the street with the rest of the neighborhood kids. My own kids are growing up in a condo where there will undoubtedly be no balcony view of pyrotechnics. There are, however, many great places in Los Angeles to celebrate our nation's Read more...

Weekend Warriors: Father's Day edition

by Nina Moon

June 13, 2008

When our weekends aren't already filled with kids' birthday parties or visits to the grandparents' house, my husband and I quite often look at each other dumbly, wondering what in the world we're going to do to fill the time. Half the time we just end up puttering around the house or maybe spending a few hours at the park. Sound familiar? Well, hopefully we'll be able to overcome our seemingly Read more...

Mozart, Moby or Miles: Saturday mornings at Ford Amphitheatre

by Nina Moon

June 11, 2008

Everywhere you turn, it seems, there's a summer music festival going on in LA. I suppose you really can't have too much music though, right? Like its nearby big brother the Hollywood Bowl, Ford Amphitheatre hosts an excellent annual summer music festival in the evenings. But for the kids there is Big!World!Fun!, their Saturday morning family concert series. There's no need for your wiggly Read more...

Mozart, Moby and Miles -- SummerSounds at the Hollywood Bowl

by Nina Moon

June 04, 2008

There's nothing quite so romantic or fun as an evening at the Bowl, listening to music under the stars. Kids love the outdoor setting and the endless flights of stairs. And who wouldn't love eating a picnic dinner with hundreds of other Angelenos? Unfortunately, sometimes the evening concerts are just a little too late for our littlest ones. Luckily, every summer the Hollywood Bowl holds Read more...

Mozart, Moby or Miles - Grand Performances Summer Festival

by Nina Moon

May 30, 2008

Mozart, Moby or Miles Grand Performances Summer Festival My brothers and I grew up to a pretty eclectic collection of music. At any given time, my parents were indoctrinating us to the tunes of Nirvana, the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix or Chopin. I've always appreciated this early exposure to such diverse sounds. With two-thirds of the performers hailing from around the LA area and the others part of Read more...