Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in west la, CA

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: The Best of the Best

by Susan Choi

August 20, 2009

I can't believe the summer is almost over. Many of the summer programs are coming to a close over the next two weeks so take advantage while you can!

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, Dan Crow performs music and stories to teach love and respect for nature, appreciating friendships, and having a sense of humor.

The Getty Museum is hosting a Garden Concert for Kids Series on Saturday and Sunday at 4 pm. This week's performer is Trout Fishing in America. Playing the guitar and bass, this band blends all types of musical styles to tell stories about the beautiful delights and sometimes hilarious dilemmas of growing up.

One World Rhythm will be leading an interactive drum circle at the Mark Taper Auditorium at the Central Library on Saturday at 2 pm.

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! Helios Dance Theatre will be performing The Lotus Eaters which is a contemporary take on the classic, Homer's Odyssey. Children are free but reservations must be made for them. Adults are $5. This week's science-based preshow activity is Water: Phylums. Different specimens of animals of the sea will be available to categorize into different groupings or "phylums." The workshop begins at 9 am before the show, so get there early!

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Today's craft will be making a Pomegranate tree which has symbolic meaning in Israel's cultural heritage.

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, David Kirton will be performing Island Songs for Children. This South Caribbean singer/songwriter blends reggae and pop to create a unique sound that all children enjoy.  

The Fowler Museum at UCLA is hosting a Kids in the Courtyard art session on Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm. Design your own tea bag package and then stay for the summer sunset concert featuring Blue 13 Dance Company. Watch this amazing dance troupe perform their signature Bollywood-Tech style which is inspired by Indian dance, music, and culture. There will also be a dance lesson after the show.

I also wanted to draw attention to the National Council of Jewish Women Thrift Shops. The key funding source for the programs and services of the NCJW, it is a great place to donate your old clothes, furniture, toys and other miscellaneous household items. This weekend, the West Pico Blvd thrift shop (on the corner of La Cienega) is hosting the Best of the Best sale. This is a special opportunity to purchase high-end clothing, furniture, collectibles, art, books, jewelry and more.

Have a great weekend!

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.

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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: 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: Ooooogy Green

by Susan Choi

June 11, 2009

Where did this week go? For me, it was consumed by the discovery of Twilight. Yes, I've become a Twilighter. My amazon.com shipment of books two and three are coming this weekend so I might be a little preoccupied. For those of you who wish to see the light of day and spend time with your non-vampire family, here is a round up of this weekend's activities:

Celebration Theatres' Familys at Play presents Ooooogy Green and Other Fables this Saturday and next Saturday at 10:30 am and 1 pm. This play is a story about accepting differences in each other, and self-acceptance, by using actors, puppets, sound and music.

Celebrate the beginning of LA City public libraries' Treasured Islands Summer Reading Club with a Library Pirates Storytime. Come to the Central Library KLOS Story Theatre on Saturday from 2 pm to 3 pm, for stories, puppets, and songs. To sign up for the summer reading club, click on this link.

The Japanese American National Museum is hosting a family day called Try This on for Size, hosted by Target. Enjoy free admission on Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm. Make a paper doll and design clothes for the doll; make a wacky hat and design your creation using various materials; and make an origami shirt Father's Day card. Starting at 1 pm, listen to Ai-Ling Louie read her latest book: Vera Wang Queen of Fashion; listen to a special reading of Suki's Kimono; and get an airbrushed shirt made by Loud, Proud, and Wild (limited to first 60 children).

In honor of the new Sparkle and Twang exhibit, the Autry National Center is hosting a family event. After touring the new exhibit which includes some interactive portions, kids can craft a star on Saturday from 1 pm to 2:30 pm.

McCabe's is hosting another Sunday matinee kid's show headlining Parker Bent. He is the preschool music teacher for the city of Beverly Hills. Children (and parents) adore him and his original songs. Show starts at 11 am.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Your children can help find and recover the Missing Blue Bagel!

Make a Bandolier (paper shoulder) bag at the Southwest Museum of American Indian on Sunday from 1 pm to 2 pm.







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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: Last Weekend of May

by Susan Choi

May 28, 2009

It is the last weekend of May! Seriously, how fast is this year zooming by? I hope you are enjoying being outdoors as much as we are. My family has been spending a lot of time in our backyard: I planted my vegetable garden and it is growing well. We cleaned out the garage, and my husband made an elaborate fort out of the old boxes for the kids. The barbeque grill is back in service, and we have riding our bikes around the neighborhood. What have you been doing to enjoy the beautiful spring weather these days? This weekend there are a couple events worth checking out in the LA area. Hope you enjoy!  

Sesame Street Live is performing at Nokia Theatre LA Live on Saturday at 10:30 am, 2 pm and 5:30 pm and on Sunday at 4:30 pm. The story is Elmo's Green Thumb which is about Elmo finding a new home for his sunflower, with the help of many familiar faces. If your kids are Sesame Street fans (like mine), be sure to take them to a live show. They will love it!  

I have been wanting to visit the reDiscover Center in West LA for some time now. So I am excited that they have begun their Saturday morning drop-in art hours. Starting this Saturday from 10 am to 12 noon, you can create an original art project for $5, while teaching your kids about reduce, reuse and recycle!

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.

McCabe's is hosting another Sunday matinee kid's show headlining Tom Freund and friends. Tom Freund wrote the songs on his album Hug Trees for his daughter Delilah, being inspired by the everyday delightful things. Show starts at 11 am.

The Zimmer Museum is hosting Family fun day on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Science and art is the theme this week. Your children will create paintings that explore the interaction between oil, wax and water.    

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.


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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!

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: 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.

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: Dan Zanes

by Susan Choi

March 12, 2009

He's finally here!  Wohoo! Dan Zanes is back and ready to rock our socks off! Get ready to enjoy an amazing concert experience with the 2007 Grammy winner for best children's music album. If you can't get to the concert, there are other options for the weekend as well.

Dan Zanes will be performing at 11 am and 2 pm on Saturday, and 11 am on Sunday at UCLA Royce Hall. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children 12 and younger.

World City at the Music Center features world-renowned artists in free concerts at the W.M. Keck Foundation Children's Amphitheatre at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Adjacent to the performance hall, family workshops are available both before and after the performances. The performance is outdoors so please be prepared for the weather (if it rains, performance will be moved indoors)! This Saturday, the program features The Czechoslovak-American Marionette Theatre and Eletfa Hungarian Folk Ensemble. Performances are at 11 am and 12:30 pm. Be sure to arrive early to get your free tickets before the show starts. Seating is limited.

Puppets are the theme at the Autry National Center this Saturday. Bold Caballeros y Noble Bandidas puppet show which highlights events of the Mexican revolution will be performed at 12:45 pm. Then make your own puppet from 1 pm to 2:30 pm.

Baby Loves Disco is back and this month they are celebrating grandparents! Grandparent's admission is only $5. So bring your favorite pop-pop and nana to boogie with you. On Saturday, from 11 am to 2 pm at the Cinespace in Hollywood. $15 in advance, $18 at door.

Every culture celebrates New Year in a different way. To experience it Middle Eastern style (aka Norooz), visit the Craft and Folk Art Museum on Saturday from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Reservations are required.

Gustafer Yellowgold will be performing at McCabe's on Sunday at 11 am. Gusta who? Gustafer is a friendly creature who came to the earth from the sun and has made friends who some of the oddest earthy creatures. Story-songs and moving illustrations make the shows unique and fun.

Have a great weekend and congrats to our Dan Zanes giveaway winners!  Read more...

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 Update and an Awesome Dan Zanes Giveaway

by Susan Choi

February 26, 2009

It is hard to believe that the end of February already draws near. Even though I just posted 99 things to do with your preschooler in LA, there is never a shortage of activities to do around town. Here are even more things to do this weekend:

It's back! Pillow Theatre: The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Saturday's performance will feature the Hudson Vagabond Puppets who will be using Japanese Bunraku style of puppetry. It is a cozy venue with pillows up close to the stage for your kids to get close and comfortable while watching this classic Beatrix Potter story. Performances will begin at 10 am and 11 am with an interactive workshop following each performance. Admission is free and seating is limited so be sure to get there early enough to ensure entrance.

Christopher Yates will be performing at the Los Angeles Central Library on Saturday at 2 pm. Inside the Mark Taper Auditorium, Mr. Yates will be juggling, performing magic, and telling stories. "Family fun with an Irish flavor!"

Still got Oscar fever? The International Family Film Festival is happening all weekend long.  Celebrating its 14th season, this year's theme is "Great Stories Bring Families Together."  There are films geared toward both young audiences and mature audiences. Movies from all around the world will be showcased by the festival. Check out the website for the screening schedule.

Nine O' Clock Players Theatre for Children begin their Spring Season with "The Enchantment of Beauty and the Beast." Performances begin on Sunday at 2pm. The aim of this philanthropic organization is to bring live performances to young children.

And last, but not least, Dan Zanes is coming to town. Wohoo! He will be performing at Royce Hall at UCLA on March 14th and March 15th. To celebrate his wild touring dance party, we will be giving away 5 of his Nueva York! CDs and 4 tickets to his show "Dan Zanes Celebrates LA!" To enter, please send an email to giveaways@savvysource.com. Please put West LA on the subject line. Be sure to get tickets early to his show as it will sell out. The giveaway will close on Thursday March 5, midnight PST. Thanks for entering!  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).

Mozart, Moby and Miles: Free Performances at the downtown Music Center

by Susan Choi

January 22, 2009

In my previous life, I used to commute from San Francisco to my job at Stanford University every weekday. I actually enjoyed the drive up the 280 freeway while listening to NPR, and even had the energy afterward to go running to Ocean Beach from my rented room in the Sunset district. Of course, back then, I didn't have three kids in my backseat asking me questions every 30 seconds. So now,  Read more...

Smells Like Preschool Spirit: Mosh with Justin Roberts

by Susan Choi

January 08, 2009

Come on, admit it. Even when you aren't listening to your kid's music, you find yourself singing it, right? For the longest time, the Wiggles' "Crunchy, Munchy , Honey Cakes" was stuck in my head. Don't get me wrong. It is not that I wanted to be singing it constantly for the better part of a month, I honestly could not help it. This is why I am grateful for musicians like Justin Roberts.  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...

Holiday Performances We Love: Nutcracker

by Susan Choi

December 18, 2008

What holiday season would be complete without a viewing of the Nutcracker? It is the perfect opportunity to expose your child to a little bit of culture, without worrying about disturbing other patrons (most likely their legs are dangling two feet off the ground too)! It's also a perfect opportunity to forego the usual t-shirt/jeans attire and get a little dressed up. Matinee performances  Read more...

5 Gifts that Keeps on Giving

by Susan Choi

December 16, 2008

What do you give to the family that has everything? How can you support local museums and other non-profit family attractions (and get a tax-deduction in the process)? Give the gift of membership this holiday season! Here are some of my favorite museums, where it pays to be a card-carrying member: 1) Natural History Museum --We come here at least a few times a year. My girls love butterfly  Read more...

Doing the LA County Fair before naptime

by Nina Moon

September 19, 2008

The fair opens at 11 on Fridays, meaning that I had exactly three hours before my two-year-old melted into a steaming pile of wayward limbs and glass-shattering cries. Of course, I forgot to take into account that the heat, the excitement and the sugar (oh, the sugar !) would make that more like two hours and fifteen minutes before meltdown. So, might I suggest that you try and make it to the  Read more...

Noah's Ark at the Skirball Cultural Center

by Nina Moon

September 15, 2008

Noah's Ark at the Skirball Cultural Museum, nestled just off the 405 freeway north of the Getty Museum, is a whimsical, imaginative, non-stop fun destination for young children. Maybe because I'm so desperate for a children's museum here in Los Angeles (because the old one has moved far, far away - or at least too far to visit before naptime) the entire two hours I was there I couldn't stop  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...

Weekend Warriors: Olympic Edition

by Nina Moon

August 08, 2008

So I don't know about you all, but this weekend I'm going to try and spend as much time in front of the television as possible. My son's preschool is having an Olympic-themed week starting Monday so I figure a little preparation won't hurt him, right? For those of you who plan on seeing the light of day, there does happen to be some great events going on in Los Angeles this weekend. For  Read more...

Weekend Warriors -- Beatles Edition

by Nina Moon

August 01, 2008

The other day a little girl showed up to my son's preschool with an ipod shuffle. Whether or not you would allow your preschooler their own personal music player, her playlist was absolutely awesome. In addition to the standard kiddie tunes and some great adult-friendly children's music, she was rockin' out to a bunch of old Beatles' numbers. And it's true, even a two-year-old can appreciate the  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...

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...

Three Days In and Around Los Angeles - Downtown

by Nina Moon

July 10, 2008

Downtown is probably more friendly to suits and singles than families with kids under five, but that doesn't mean that can't be an interesting place for your children. Especially if your children haven't experienced, well, really tall buildings that can be kind of cool. And if you are here for business, but had to bring along the kids, this list will help you navigate the kid-friendly side of  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...

All About Me -- Date Night at the Hollywood Bowl

by Nina Moon

June 19, 2008

When I was pregnant with my first child, my husband and I were told time and time again, The best thing you can do for your marriage after you have kids is to have regular date nights. It's sage advice, but when you combine a nursing newborn, the high cost of childcare and two exhausted parents, date nights end up pretty low on the to do list. Now that we're starting to get this whole  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...