Holiday Cheer and Foodie Delights: A Los Angeles Weekend Guide

Welcome to 'Things to do in Los Angeles' on this vibrant Saturday, December 21, 2024. As you step out into the city, you're greeted by the mild winter weather that Los Angeles is famous for, with clear skies and a gentle breeze. The air quality is good, making it a perfect day to explore all that LA has to offer.Today, the city is buzzing with a variety of exciting events. If you're a foodie, you won't want to miss the weekly Smorgasburg Los Angeles in Downtown LA, where you can sample dishes from up to 70 different food vendors, ranging from tacos to Chinese dumplings and Filipino grilled chicken. For those looking for some holiday cheer, the 'Santa Paddle' is cruising around Ventura Harbor, offering a festive and aquatic twist on the traditional holiday parade.Music lovers are in for a treat as Beyoncé is set to perform live on Netflix this Christmas, and while it's not a live event in LA, it's definitely something to look forward to as you enjoy your day. In the evening, if you're up for some nightlife, The Formosa Cafe in Hollywood is a classic spot with its vintage decor and signature cocktails, making it a great place to unwind and soak in some old-school Hollywood charm.On the local news front, there are some exciting updates. The EPA has recently granted California's request to ban the sales of new gas cars by 2035, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future. For public transit users, there have been some updates following a recent incident at the Universal City/Studio City Metro Station, where a man was hospitalized in a stabbing; authorities are working to enhance safety measures.If you're looking for must-do activities today, consider visiting Thai Town, where you can indulge in some of the best Thai food in America. Start your day at Silom Supermarket to see monks receiving their alms, and then try some creamy Thai coffees at Sapp Café or delicious papaya salad at Ruen Pair. For outdoor enthusiasts, Griffith Park is a must-visit, offering breathtaking views of the city, especially during a dusk hike towards Mount Hollywood or Mount Lee.Here’s a local tip to help you navigate like a local: When visiting Smorgasburg, come with a group and use the divide-and-conquer approach. Have one person secure a table while everyone else grabs something from different vendors, then meet back to share a variety of dishes.As the day comes to a close, keep an eye out for tomorrow's events. Firefighters will be on high alert following multiple fires overnight in the Sherman Oaks area, and there might be some interesting updates on the new bike lanes in Claremont that have been causing confusion for drivers.Tune in tomorrow for more exciting activities and local news, and until then, enjoy the diverse and vibrant city that is Los Angeles