While the weather outside has been frightful, Artisanal LA will be quite delightful. Sip hot organic teas, nibble freshly baked goods and enjoy warm spirits, while rubbing elbows with L.A.’s  finest culinary artisans. Why? Stop by the Eco-lounge to sign up for YDT’s daily email and be entered to win three cases of GT’s Synergy Kombucha, a gift certificate to Mozza2go, or dinner for two at Real Food Daily!

Location: The Cooper Design Space Penthouse, 860 S Los Angeles St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 (map)  Date/Time: Saturday, October 23 and Sunday, October 24, open both days from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Cost: Purchase your tickets for $10 in advance (online) or $12 at the door  Web: artisanalla.com.

A Festival on Wheels

Bikes and beer you say? New Belgium Brewing’s Tour de Fat rolls through the streets of Los Angeles this Sunday, serving up a costume-themed bike parade, musical performances, and of course, beer! Why? Proceeds benefit local cycling organizations like Bicycle Kitchen, C.I.C.L.E. and LACBC.

Location: 1245 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map) Date/Time: Saturday, October 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Cost: Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.  Web: newbelgium.com.

Unique LA is Here to Stay!

Partnered with Apartment 3, Unique LA will open a new boutique at H.D. Buttercup in Culver City this Friday. It will feature some of the chicest finds you usually have to wait all year to get your hands on, from over 100 independent artists and designers. Why? Enjoy a preview of what Unique LA’s 3^rd Annual Holiday Show, taking place December 11-12, has to offer.

Location: 3225 Helms Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90034 (map)  Date/Time: The grand opening will take place on Friday, October 22 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.   Cost: Online registration is free.  Web: uniquelaapartment3opening.eventbrite.com.

People Are Strange

Before Daria was around to entertain us with her monotone wit, there was Emily the Strange – a kick-ass counterculture icon. Now through November 11, you can find Emily and her four black cats among the windows and shelves of Royal/T in Culver City. Why? This pop-up shop will feature Mystery cupcakes, Emily-inspired gifts and even a Kitty Masquerade – hey, stranger things have happened.

Location: Royal/T, 8910 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232 (map)  Date/Time: The pop-up shop takes place from Friday, October 15 through Thursday, November 11. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Cost: Items for purchase range from $3 to $1,500  Web: emilystrange.com.

On Our Radar:

Say “Hey” to Your New CSA

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs seem to be sprouting all over – just as your wheat grass is, we’re sure! If you live in Hollywood or Los Angeles be sure to check out the two newest CSA pick-up locations near you. For all other ‘hoods, check out CSA California to find a program within reach. Why? From farm to you.

Please see website for details: csacalifornia.org.

Images courtesy of Artisanal LA, New Belgium Brewing, Unique LA, Royal/T Cafe and Flickr user timsackton.

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Say It Ain’t So

As with all good things, the Yamashiro Farmers’ Market in Hollywood is coming to an end. Get all the fresh produce and market treats you can now through October 28 or risk waiting until March of 2011 for it to re-open. Why? Drown your sorrows with a beer from the beer garden chased by a bratwurst, currywurst or frikadelle (all in honor of Oktoberfest). Swallow and repeat.

Location: Yamashiro Restaurant, 1999 N. Sycamore Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90068 (map) Date/Time: Thursday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The final market will take place on October 28. Web: http://www.yamashirorestaurant.com/news/.

It’s Time To Strut Your Stuff, L.A.

Los Angeles Fashion Week has arrived! To celebrate, Refinery29 is hosting a “fash bash” at Space 15 Twenty featuring some of L.A.’s hottest designers, DJs, raffle giveaways and edibles from Umami Burger and I Heart Pies. Why? Receive 50% off sustainable and vintage lines like Curatorial by Popopmomo and Found By.
Location: Space 15 Twenty, 1520 North Cahuenga Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028 (map) Date/Time: Thursday, October 14, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Web: http://www.refinery29.com/.

The Older, The Better

Almost as good as going through Mom’s closet of old clothing, this weekend’s Vintage Fashion Expo features designer clothing, timeless gowns, and major jewelry from over 85 vintage vendors. Why? This could be your opportunity to find a killer Halloween costume; ok and a hot pair of heels for a night on the town!

Location: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, 1855 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (directions)  Date/Time: General Admission takes place on Saturday, October 16, from 10:30 a.m. to 6.pm and Sunday, October 17, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Cost: $10 for General Admission. Free admittance on Sunday with student ID or with Saturday ticket purchase.  Web: http://www.vintageexpo.com/.

I Scream, You Scream: Follow That Truck!

Serving up house shaped, handmade, all-natural ice cream sandwiches wrapped in edible paper, Coolhaus is one food truck to follow. Why? Modern architectural appeal meets Dirty Mint ice cream in a crunchy cool collision.

Location, dates and times vary. Please see website for details: http://eatcoolhaus.com/la/.

On Our Radar:

Fred Segal Yoga

As if Fred Segal didn’t already have its stores full (of clothing, shoes, jewelry, home décor, beauty products – we could go on), the trendy chain is adding Yoga Studio to its collection. Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please see website for details.

Location: 420 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA, 90401 (map).

Artisanal LA

Cupcakes, basil, beer and jelly, you can find all this and more next weekend at Artisanal LA. Get your tickets online now.

Location: 860 S. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, CA 90014 (map).

Images via Ningyoboy’s Closet, Laura Padgett, Robert A., Coolhaus, Fred Segal Yoga, Yamashiro and Artisanal LA

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All You Need is Love…and Chocolate

We’re talking organic dark chocolate decadence, chocolate covered all-natural buttery caramels and vegan hazelnut butter cups.  Get your fix at the Los Angeles Luxury Chocolate Salon, a premier chocolate show, which will feature samples from over 30 chocolatiers and confectioners. Why? “A Dark Chocolate a Day Keeps the Doctor Away.”

Location: The Pasadena Center 300 E. Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91101 (map)  Date/Time: Sunday, October 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Cost: Purchase tickets in advance for $20 or pay $25 at the door  Web: http://www.lachocolatesalon.com/.

Yarning for Some Weekend Fun?

We’ve told you about seed-bombing before, but a new trend is about to hit the streets of North East Los Angeles: yarn-bombing. Artists will knit and crochet their way down North Figueroa, adorning everyday items (e.g. parking meters, lamp posts, street signs and the like) with needlework, as part of the month-long exhibit, “Fig Knit-On.” Why? These images from past exhibits and events had us in stitches!

Location: Future Studio, 5558 N Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90042 (map)  Date/Time: Exhibition runs from October 9 – 31, 2010  Web: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=122672841121750&ref=mf.

Cook Club

If the pages of Simply Organic were to come to life, we imagine they would look similar to Cookbook, the new corner grocery store in Echo Park. Featuring produce from local farms, fresh baked breads, handcrafted ice cream and dishes prepared by Heirloom LA, Cookbook is definitely a page turner. Why? As the name implies, pre-made meals are inspired by recipes from a different cookbook every week.

Location: 1549 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026 (map)  Date/Time: Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.  Web: http://www.cookbookla.com/.

Rule the Road

President Obama isn’t the only one who can stop traffic in Los Angeles. This Sunday, CicLAvia (named after Ciclovia, a “weekly street closure event in Bogotá, Colombia”) will shut down seven and a half miles of streets (to cars, that is). Hoping to connect communities, promote physical activity and decrease the number of automobiles on the road, people are encouraged to play, mingle and celebrate in the streets. Why? While you’re at it, make your way over to Los Angeles City Hall and join the rally to Kick Coal and Oil Out of Los Angeles.

Location: Click here to view a map of the seven and a half mile route  Date/Time: Sunday, October 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Web: http://ciclavia.wordpress.com/.

Your Taste Buds are Calling…

And Taste of Downtown Burbank is answering. For twenty-five dollars, enjoy: all the samples you can stomach from over forty restaurants; live entertainment and music; a cooking demo concocted with sustainable and organic practices; and other delicious delights! Thirsty for more? Throw in another ten bucks for access to the wine and beer garden. Why? Taste of Downtown Burbank has partnered with the Burbank Recycle Center and Burbank Green Alliance to cut back on waste created at the event.

Location: This event takes place outdoors in Downtown Burbank on San Fernando between Magnolia and Orange Grove (MAP)  Date/Time: Thursday, October 7 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.  Cost: Tickets can be purchased online for $25 (Food Only) or $35 (Food Plus – includes Beer & Wine Garden)  Web: http://www.tasteofdowntownburbank.com/index.php.

Images via the fabric bar, calloohcallay,  Otherstream, grubb1937, InWiththeOldVintage, planetkyoto, We Heart It.

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Allow yourself several small indulgences to spice up your fall wardrobe while supporting local shops and designers at L.A.’s first Fashion’s Night Out.  With fabulous retailers, like Strange Invisible Perfumes on Abbot Kinney and Carol Young Undesigned in Los Feliz, you’re sure to score some fabulous loot. Why? Booties and booze from any one of these stylish soirees make for an even better outing.

Location: Please see website for a full list of participating retailers  Date/Time: Friday, September 10 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Web: http://www.fno.lacity.org/index.htm.

Local Eatery Wanted

Eco-gal seeks lunch and dinner spot that serves succulent vegetable sandwiches and feta-covered California Greek Salads, all made with local ingredients. A restaurant that is dedicated to purchasing sustainably grown food whenever possible. A location in or around neighborhood to take leisurely strolls or bike rides to. One that bolsters a rather (ahem) large selection of beers and drafts. Found: The Golden State, located on Fairfax. Why? It’s time you found yourself a restaurant that meets all your needs.

Location: 426 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036  (map)  Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, Noon to 10 p.m., closed on Monday  Web: http://www.thegoldenstatecafe.com/index.html.

A Meal of a Lifetime

For those in search of good company and great eats, venture to the SunPower Natural Café in Studio City Sunday evening. Take an extraordinary journey into the realm of raw vegan Asian food with the third in a series of cooking classes inspired by cuisines from around the world. Why? Learn to whip up dishes like pad Thai noodles, raw stir-fry and spring rolls like a pro.

Location: SunPower Natural Café, 3711 Cahuenga Blvd., Studio City, CA 91604 (map)  Date/Time: Sunday, September 12 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  Cost: Individual, $35 and Couple, $60  RSVP: Please call 818-308-7420  Web: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=142504882445302&index=1 .

Lights, Camera, Eco-Action!

The movie industry has been able to turn humans into superheroes and back lots into the streets of New York, but can it turn the big screen into a world of “Green?” Filmmaker Miranda Bailey sure thinks so! Watch as Bailey attempt to “green” the set of The River Why in the documentary Greenlit at the Downtown Los Angeles Film Festival. Why? In addition to Q & A with Bailey and Selman, our very own Tracy Hepler will be speaking on sustainable food following the film.

Location: Downtown Independent, 251 S. Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map) Date/Time: Saturday, September 11, at 1 p.m. Cost: $10  Web: http://www.dffla.com/.

Warning: Summer Still in Full Effect

Yes, it is already September and yes, fall is right around the corner, but that doesn’t mean you have to put away your bikinis and wedge sandals yet. Pack a large blanket as well as a tasty meal (followed by dessert, of course), and head over to Barnsdall Art Park for an outdoor Saturday movie screening. Enjoy dinner alfresco and a “modern classic film” showcasing this glorious city of ours. Why? If the cool summer night weather is a little too chilly for you, warm up with wine and beer served on-site.

Location: West Lawn of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, 4800 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90027  Date/Time: Every Saturday. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and screenings begin at 7:30 p.m.  Cost: Movie Only, $10 and Movie and Three Drink Tickets, $25. Purchase tickets online Web: http://www.barnsdall.org/.

Images via The City of Los Angeles, FNO, The Golden State Cafe, Raw Vegan Asian Food Cooking Class, Greenlit, Barnsdall Art Park Foundation.

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9021Oh! Beverly Hills Gets Tasty

What could be better than unlimited samples of cocktails? Unlimited samples of food from some of L.A.’s top restaurants – including your favorite eco-eateries Fig, Akasha, and Culina – of course! Top chefs, like Michael Voltaggio, will delight you with their cooking skills, mix the perfect cocktail and provide you with the most mouth-watering morsels around at this weekend’s Taste of Beverly Hills. Why? Treat your sweetie to the perfect Date Night, enjoy unlimited Mimosas, Bloody Marys and Bellinis at brunch, or celebrate the three-day weekend with a BBQ in the Hills.

Location: 9900 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (map)  Date/Time: Thursday, September 2 to Sunday, September 5 (please see website for schedule)  Cost: Ticket prices vary  Web: http://thetasteofbeverlyhills.com/.

You Donut Want To Miss This

How far would you go for a pastry? How about a 40 mile bike ride? This Saturday, throw on some bright colored clothing, a helmet and meet in Pasadena for a calorie burning, appetite building bike ride to The Donut Man in Glendora. Why? Reward yourself with one (or dare I say, two) outrageously packed strawberry or peach donuts, made with fresh fruit picked daily.

Location: Meet at 131 N. El Molino Ave, Pasadena CA 91101 (map)  Date/Time: Saturday, September at 8 a.m.  Web:http://www.yelp.com/events/glendora-kebbie-presents-the-donut-man-biking-uye

Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

At tomorrow’s inaugural We Go Rock, Eagle Rock’s Friday Fest begin at Eagle Rock’s Farmers’ Market and then stop into any one of the participating stores for a glass of wine, shopping and maybe even a cup of sugar! Why? After you’ve made your rounds, make your way back to the Farmers’ Market for entertainment, music and a raffle for gift certificates and prizes from participating merchants.

Location: Eagle Rock’s Farmers’ Market and businesses located on Colorado and Eagle Rock Blvd. For specific store locations click here Date/Time: Every Friday, beginning this Friday, September 3, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.  Web: http://www.wegorock.com/.

Whether your bike of choice is a mountain, beach cruiser, or single speed, your choice for weekend fun will be the Bicycle Film Festival. This five day event takes place Downtown and will feature an array of cycling documentaries and movies for your viewing pleasure. Why? Get those wheels poppin’ with some stellar performances, music and after parties.

Location: All movies will be shown at the Downtown Independent, 251 South Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map)  Date/Time: Wednesday, September 1 to Sunday, September 5. Please see website for program details Cost: Festival passes can be purchased online for $40  Web: http://www.bicyclefilmfestival.com/.

Images courtesy of Kevin C., We Go Rock, Eagle Rock’s Friday Fest via Facebook, Taste of  Beverly Hills and Bicycle Film Festival.

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As a true Valley Girl I may be a bit biased, but I say when it comes to a Green Event such as the 4^th Annual Food & Wine Festival, no trek is too far. There will be 200 wineries, 20 breweries and 20 spirits on site, as well as fantastic chefs from Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.

Tickets can be purchased for $100, but hurry the event is almost sold out!

The event will take place this Saturday, June 19 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Calabasas Inn, located  at 23500 Park Sorrento, Calabasas, CA 91302.

For details, directions and more information, please visit valleywinefestival.com.

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Support Fair Trade at Ten Thousand Villages

In keeping with Your Daily Thread’s devotion to making this a Fair Trade week, I encourage you all to make your way over to Ten Thousand Villages in Pasadena and trade in those dollars for some fair trade products! Ten Thousand Villages is a “fair trade retailer” and founding member of IFAT – the World Fair Trade Organization. Ten Thousand Villages has worked to form relationships with artisans throughout 38 countries, and has implemented a fair trade policy, in which artisans receive a “fair price” for their unique, handcrafted items. Whether you are in need of some accessories, an accent piece for your home or you’re just dying to get your hands on a “handcrafted Indonesian handbag,” Ten Thousand Villages is the place for you.

Location:  Ten Thousand Villages 567 South Lake Ave  Pasadena, CA 91101   Hours:  Thurs, Fri & Sat: 10am-7pm  Sun: 12pm-5pm  Web: http://pasadena.tenthousandvillages.com/

Give yourself a chance to reconnect with nature, improve your health and enjoy the fresh night air of fall by joining the Sierra Club fr a guided night hike, Thursday, October 8, in Griffith Park. Sierra Club works to preserve all natural species and the environment, and practices and promotes the “responsible use of the earth’s ecosystems and resources.” Meet in the Merry-Go-Round parking lot #2, wearing comfortable shoes and bring: a reusable canteen and flashlight (optional). “Leashed well-mannered dogs” are welcome at the discretion of the leader.

Location:  Griffith Park 4730 Crystal Springs Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027  Date/Time:  Thursday, October 8 at 7pm  Cost: Free  Web: http://angeles.sierraclub.org/outingsDB/index.aspx

Move over cupcake, the DJ is coming through. Every Friday and Saturday night, Akasha restaurant transforms its bakery into a lounge complete with a DJ and all. Offering up some great drink specials and scrumptious munchies, their food is brought in from different ranches, farms and fisheries that are “guided by the principals of sustainability” as well a number of local family farms that serve Southern California. Choose from one of their many organic, bio-dynamic spirits, wines and beers. Most of their cocktails are made with freshly squeezed juice and paired with an array of organic spirits, such as: Juniper Organic Gin, Square One Vodka, 4 Copas Tequila and VeeV, the world’s first antioxidant spirit.

Location:  Akasha 9543 Culver Boulevard Culver City, CA 90232  Date/Time:   Friday, October 9 & Saturday, October 10 from 6-10pm Web: http://www.akasharestaurant.com/

Beer! Need I say more? Well, I am going to. Los Angeles’ first ever Oktoberfest is happening Saturday, October 11. Featuring a wide selection of traditional German beers, foods, wines and spirits this celebration is sure to awaken the beer maiden in you. Not only will there be a Polka Band, Bavarian Dancers, a men’s and a women’s stein holding contest, but a beer pong tournament as well! Feeling guilty about drinking your money away?  Don’t get your Lederhosens in a bunch. Los Angeles Oktoberfest helps to raise funds for local charities.

Location:  LA Mart 1933 S. Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90007  Date/Time: Saturday, October 10, 2009 1-6pm  VIP admission at 12pm Web: http://www.laoktoberfest.com/

Ticket Info:

1. Admission ^$15  - Includes a 1/2 Liter Souvenir Glass Stein
2. Admission ^$20 – Includes a 1 Liter Souvenir Glass Stein
3. All Inclusive Tickets ^$75 -  1 Liter Souvenir Glass Stein, Included all day Drinking and Food.
4. VIP Tickets  ^$100 – admission to Oktoberfest 1 hour before regular guests. 1 Liter Souvenir Glass Stein, Included all day Drinking and Food.

Eco-logical Art Returns

After having your beer and brats-ful, head on down to the Eco-logical Art Gallery for the premiere of “Taking if Off For Art/3″.  After the success of last year’s exhibit–the Eco-logical Art Gallery returns with a new  exhibit that features a “live” curtain drop to reveal a breathtaking 14’ by 48-foot art piece painted on a recycled billboard.  Come support your fellow local green artists and check out the show.

Location:  Eco-LogicalART Gallery 4829 West Pico Boulevard (2 blocks east of La Brea) Los Angeles, CA 90019  Date/Time:  Saturday, October 10, 2009 6 to 10 p.m. Admission:   Free

Free reusable tote? Free bike valet? “Locally grown, pesticide-free, and organic produce?” Um, yes please! The Hill’s Farmers’ Market is opening on Sunday, October 11^th at the Cahuenga Plaza Shops. People who ride their bikes, instead of driving a car will earn “Market Money” which can be used at any one of the vendors. Hungry for some tamales, crepes and/or organic cheeses? The Hill’s Farmers’ Market has got you covered. Don’t miss out on the organic goodness this Farmers’ Market has got to offer!

Location:  3270 W. Cahuenga Blvd. Los Angeles CA 90068  Date/Time:  Sunday October 11, 2009  8am-1pm   Web: www.thehillsfarmersmarket.com

Does the sweet smell of pure essential oils sound tempting to you?  Head over to the Mindful Nest this Sunday and learn how to mix, match and blend your own creative and truly natural scents.  You’ll get fragrance roll-on, lotion and get to much on yummy appetizers and drinks.  Space is almost completely filled, so if you want in RSVP now.

Location:  Mindful Nest 3319 West Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA   Date/Time:  Sunday October 11, 2009 from 5 to 7 p.m.  Tel:  (818) 840-0123   Call today reserve your spot!

Hungry? Looking to get out of the city? Head over to the Valley for a “Taste of Encino.” Presented by The Encino Chamber of Commerce, the 22^nd Annual Taste of Encino event offers attendees a day of like, total fun! With a variety of ethnic and American food, musical entertainment, a beer and wine garden, arts and crafts items and even a hot dog eating contest, how can you resist?

Location:  Ventura Blvd  (between Balboa & Amestoy)  Date/Time:  Sunday, October 11, 2009  10am-5pm  Admission: Free web: http://www.tasteofencino.com/

Location:  Various restauarants on Abbot Kinney (See Web for details)   Date/Time:  Sunday, October 11 2pm-7pm  Tickets: $60web: http://tasteofabbotkinney.com/

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Farmer Markets:  30 Years of Growing

Celebrate 30 years of farmer markets providing fresh local food to .  Mayor Villarigosa will be alongside L.A.’s famous food critic Jonathan Gold other chef foodies and critics.  The Mayor is announcing his plan to increase access to nutrious food to all Angelenos plus there will be free and entertainment for attendees.  For more details visit http://locallygrownla.wordpress.com/

Location:  Arts District/Little Tokyo Certified Farmers’ Market at City Hall – 1^st and Spring St.  Downtown Los Angeles.   Date/Time:  Thursday, September 3, 2009 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Web: http://locallygrownla.wordpress.com/

Silver Lake Wine has partnered with the Barnsdall Art Park to host weekly wine tastings at the Hollyhock house.  During the tasting, the art park will also be educating guests on the work of Frank Lloyd Right.  YDT Fav Cool Haus will also be there serving handmade ice cream sammys.  Yum!

Location:  Hollyhock House, 4800 Hollywood Blvd.  Los Angeles CA 90027  Date/Time:  Friday, September 4, 2009 from 5: 30 to 7:30 p.m.  Tel: 888-527-2757

Head over to the popular First Fridays on Abbot Kinney for the opening reception of the H20 exhibit at the G2 Gallery that will benefit Heal the Bay.  The exhibit examines the state of our water at this most critical juncture.  Photographers on exhibit include Michele Westmoreland, Eric Cheng, Ron LeValley and Elizabeth Carmel.   The gallery also donates proceeds from each purchase to environmental causes.   Hungry after the exhibit?  The Border Grill Taco Truck will be hanging out down the street at the Brig.

Location:  G2 Gallery, 1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd.  Venice, CA 90291.  Date/Time:  Friday, September 4, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.  Web:  http://www.theg2gallery.com/

It seems there are more environmental films these days than blockbusters . Perhaps tha a bit of an exaggeration, but not too far from the truth.  The Blue Planet Film Festival taking place this weekend.  In addition to environmental and animal rightsoriented films there will be ictory garden and green roofing workshops, raw food cooking demos/tastings, rehabilitated pelican release and more. To get tickets and more info visit http://www.blueplanetfilmfest.com/

Location:  Two locations will host different events.  They are:  Santa Monica Bay Women’s Club 1210 4^th St.  Santa Monica, CA 90401 and Santa Monica Playhouse at 1211 4^th St.  Santa Monica CA 90401.  Web: http://www.blueplanetfilmfest.com/

The FYF Fest is back and this year the festival is supporting an important cause. The FYF Fest has partner with local and national orgs to raise awareness about .  On Saturday there will be an all day festival featuring musical performances like the Black Lips, Indy TV comedy stars Tim & Eric and tons more.  The event will take place at the Los Angeles State Historic Park, which is also under threat.  Admission is $20 but if you can’t afford to pay the cash you can volunteer through the FYF’s partner non-profit orgs like 826 LA, Midnight Mission, Habitat for Humanity and more.  Get complete details and tickets at www.fyffest.com

Location:  Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 N. Spring St.  Chinatown/downtown Los Angeles   Date/Time:  Saturday, September 5, 2009.  The event starts at 1 p.m.  Web: http://www.fyffest.com/

Did you hear about Park(ing) Day last year, but have no idea what it was?  Get schooled this Saturday with a Park(ing) day esq training session in preperation for Park(ing) day on September 18th.  Head down to Santa Monica and Vermont Red line stop and watch how a metered parking space will be transformed into a beautiful public space.  For more info visit www.parkingdayla.com

Location: 4590 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles CA  Date/Time:  Saturday, September 5, 2009 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Web: http://www.parkingdayla.com/

Want to learn how to make Kraut and Kimchi?  Pickled foods are all the range this Sunday where there will be instructional opportunities at the Machine Project.  You can sign up just kraut, just kimichi or be adventurous and do both.  Visit the website here to sign up and see what ingredients you need to bring.

Location: 1200 N. Alvarado St.  Los Angeles CA 90026  Date/Time:  Sunday, September 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  web/rsvp: http://machineproject.com/events/2009/09/06/pickled-cabbage/ Admission:  $10-15

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