News & Media
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 16, 2026, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.3%, down from 6.37% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.65%, down from 5.74% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Take a dive into the biggest tech headlines from across the web. We’re covering what you may have missed this week in gadgets and upgrades. From Meta AI Clones to Huawei Pura X Max and more, read on to stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech.
The race to connect devices beyond cell towers just got more serious as Amazon deepens its involvement in satellite infrastructure. The company is reportedly working alongside Globalstar—the same network tied to Apple’s emergency SOS features—to expand satellite-based internet capabilities. This signals a future where connectivity isn’t dependent on traditional carriers, especially in remote or disaster-prone areas. While Apple already uses this tech in iPhones and Apple Watches for emergencies, broader integration could open the door to everyday satellite data usage. That would fundamentally shift how we think about coverage maps, turning “no service” into something closer to a relic. It’s early, but the groundwork suggests your devices may soon stay connected wherever you wander.
Desktop AI just got a glow-up as Google brings its Gemini assistant to macOS. The new app gives users a more native, integrated way to interact with AI instead of relying on browser tabs. It’s designed to feel like a true desktop companion. This means quick to access, visually streamlined, and capable of handling everyday tasks like writing, summarizing, and ideation. This move puts Gemini in more direct competition with system-level assistants and productivity tools. It also reflects a broader shift: AI is no longer a destination you visit, but something that quietly lives alongside your workflow. Expect more of AI becoming less of a tool and more of an ambient presence.
In a move that feels both unexpected and oddly fitting, Spotify is stepping into physical book sales. The platform is integrating with Bookshop.org, allowing users to purchase real, tangible books alongside audiobooks. It’s a subtle but meaningful pivot toward supporting independent bookstores while expanding Spotify’s cultural footprint beyond audio. The strategy leans into discovery, helping users find stories in multiple formats, then choose how they want to engage. It also suggests that even in a digital-first world, there’s still a strong appetite for physical media. Spotify isn’t just streaming your life anymore; it’s trying to help curate it.
The line between user and avatar continues to blur as Meta explores AI-powered “clones” that can mimic individuals. Discussed by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, the concept revolves around digital personas that can communicate, respond, and potentially act on your behalf. Think less sci-fi villain, more hyper-personalized assistant trained on your voice, preferences, and patterns. While the idea raises obvious questions around identity and privacy, it also hints at a future where your digital presence can scale beyond your actual time and attention. It’s equal parts intriguing and slightly unnerving, like sending your personality to meetings you don’t want to attend. Either way, it’s a glimpse into how social platforms may evolve from networks into extensions of self.
Foldables are entering their experimental era, and Huawei is leaning all the way in. The new Huawei Pura X Max features an unusually wide design that challenges the typical tall, narrow smartphone format. This approach by Huawei prioritizes multitasking and media consumption. Likewise, the design offers a more tablet-like experience when unfolded. It’s a bold departure from the industry’s current foldable trends. The move by Huawei shows how much room there still is for innovation in hardware form factors. While availability may be limited geographically, the design itself could influence competitors globally. In the world of smartphones, the rectangle is no longer sacred.
Finally, a small but mighty update: Instagram now allows users to edit comments after posting. It’s one of those features that feels overdue in the age of typos, impulsive replies, and evolving thoughts. Users can tweak their comments within a limited window, adding a layer of flexibility without fully erasing accountability. While simple on the surface, it reflects a broader shift toward giving users more control over their digital voice. Social media is slowly acknowledging that conversations aren’t static—and neither are we. Sometimes growth looks like editing your comment instead of deleting it.
Breeze into the weekend vibes with local fun happening in your area. From the LA Times Festival of Books to Earth Day celebrations and more, there is something for everyone. Check out the fun in your neighborhood with our weekend events round-up for April 17 through April 19.
When: April 18 – April 19
Where: USC/Exposition Park | Los Angeles
What: Book lovers gather at the University of Southern California each spring for this beloved two-day literary festival, a vibrant celebration of storytelling in all its forms. The outdoor fair features booksellers, author readings, signings, and even culinary demos, alongside an impressive lineup of talent including Amy Tan, David Duchovny, Larry David, Roxane Gay, Sarah Jessica Parker, and more. Expect a weekend filled with live music, screenings, and cultural programming, making it a family-friendly outing for curious minds of all ages. Admission is free, with select conversations available via reservation, and the festivities kick off with the 46th annual Los Angeles Times Book Prizes on Friday evening.
When: Until April 18
Where: DTLA
What: Ease into the weekend at Grand Park, where two days of free, family-friendly programming invite you to recharge mind, body, and spirit. Expect a feel-good mix of yoga, arts and crafts, music, dancing, and nature-inspired activities designed for all ages. Adding a touch of whimsy, the beloved Bob Baker Marionette Theater will delight guests with charming puppet shows. It’s the kind of easy, joyful weekend moment the city does best.
When: April 11 – April 12
Where: Montecito Heights
What: Step into a whimsical world at Magic Market, where all things mystical and fae take over Heritage Square Museum. Expect a dreamy lineup of tarot, palm, and lip readings, reiki, aura photography, and light therapy, alongside tours of the museum’s beautifully preserved—and maybe slightly haunted—Victorian homes. Guests can lounge picnic-style, catch live performances from local witchy artists, and browse a curated marketplace of 75 vendors offering crystals, vintage fashion, and metaphysical finds. Upgrade to a Witch’s Pass for extra enchantments, including a tote bag, sound bath session, and exclusive access to the iconic Octagon House.
When: April 17 – April 19
Where: Long Beach
What: Feel the adrenaline at this high-octane racing event celebrating over 50 years “at full speed,” set along a thrilling two-mile street circuit packed with straightaways and tight turns. Beyond the edge-of-your-seat action, the weekend features concerts, a lifestyle expo, food trucks, and a family fun zone where kids ages 3 to 6 can race their own mini cars. New this year, the “Mornings CARnival” adds an early-day mega car show to the lineup. It’s part race day, part festival, and all-out entertainment.
When: Until April 18
Where: West Hollywood
What: Once dubbed “Localchella,” Goldenvoice Presents April returns with a two-week run of Coachella artists hitting more intimate stages across Southern California. The 2026 lineup includes acts like Lykke Li, Wet Leg, and Suicidal Tendencies, performing at venues such as El Rey Theatre, The Fonda Theatre, Fox Theater Pomona, The Roxy Theatre, and Sound Nightclub. It’s a rare chance to catch big festival names in smaller, up-close settings—no desert trek required. Check the official lineup for show dates and tickets, with additional performances in the Bay Area and San Diego.
When: Until August 23
Where: Westwood
What: Explore the sensory side of contemporary art in this immersive exhibition featuring works made with living and organic materials like cacao, clay, and cochineal. Showcasing over 20 artists from across the Americas, the installations invite visitors to engage through touch, sound, and scent. On April 4, an after-hours preview adds DJ sets, hands-on art-making, and courtyard festivities, all free to attend.
When: April 18
Where: Van Nuys
What: Celebrate Earth Day with a hands-on impact at this community cleanup hosted by Friends of the Los Angeles River in partnership with California Native Plant Society and San Fernando Valley Audubon Society. Held at the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Preserve, the event invites volunteers to remove invasive plants, plant native species, and create seedballs to help restore the landscape. After getting your hands dirty, stick around for a guided nature walk and grab a bite from local food trucks. Participation is free, but registration is required.
When: April 18 – May 3
Where: Warner Bros. Studios | Burbank
What: Up, up, and away—into a full-blown Superman celebration at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood. Marking the iconic hero’s debut in Action Comics #1, this year’s festivities introduce an immersive, walk-through experience inspired by the latest blockbuster from James Gunn. Guests can step into Superman’s world with interactive gameplay using 3D glasses and motion-capture tech before unwinding in the Fortress of Solitude, complete with mini-games, photo ops, and themed props. Wrap it all up with a visit to the Daily Planet-inspired shop, or bundle the experience with the full studio tour for an even deeper dive into movie magic.
When: Multiple Dates
Where: Burbank Town Center | 201 East Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank
What: Shop handmade and support local creators at the SoCal Etsy Guild Market, held the first weekend of every month at Burbank Town Center. This indoor three-day event features Southern California artisans, live art, DIY activities, giveaways, and a wide mix of art, vintage finds, original designs, and artisanal foods. With free parking and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a fun way to spend the weekend browsing unique goods and meeting local makers.
When: April 18
Where: Plaza Park, E Thompson Blvd, Ventura
What: Celebrate sustainability and community at the Earth Day Festival in downtown Ventura on April 18, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Plaza Park. The day begins with opening remarks and a traditional Chumash blessing, followed by live performances and family-friendly activities throughout the afternoon. Browse environmental booths, shop sustainable goods, sample local food vendors, and explore an electric vehicle showcase. It’s a lively, feel-good way to honor the planet and connect with the community.
When: April 18
Where: Las Virgenes Road & Agoura Road, Las Virgenes Rd & Agoura Rd | Calabasas
What: Celebrate sustainability at the City of Calabasas Earth Day Celebration and Green Expo on April 18, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Las Virgenes Creek site in Calabasas. This free, family-friendly event features eco-focused vendors, giveaways, and activities for kids, all designed to inspire simple, meaningful ways to live more sustainably. Rooted in the spirit of Earth Day’s origins, the festival blends education and celebration while encouraging the community to take action for the environment. It’s an easy, uplifting way to connect with nature and discover small changes that make a big impact.
When: April 19
Where: 3350 Harbor Blvd, Oxnard
What: Celebrate the magic of migration at the 27th Annual Celebration of the Whales Festival on April 19, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Channel Islands Harbor. This free, family-friendly event features hands-on fun like a community “Paint a Whale” mural. Additional fun activities include ocean-themed chalk art and a kids’ zone with bounce houses and games. Visitors can also enjoy free kayaking and paddleboarding, browse local vendors, and explore educational exhibits about gray whale migration.
Los Angeles takes its burgers seriously. From indulgent wagyu smash burgers to elevated bistro creations and neighborhood classics, the city’s burger scene is as diverse as its dining landscape. Whether you’re craving something messy and nostalgic or refined and chef-driven, the best burgers in Los Angeles deliver bold flavor in every bite.
Here are some of the top burger spots around town worth seeking out right now.
Location: 1091 Broxton Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90024, United States
NADC Burger, short for “Not a Damn Chance,” brings serious heat to Westwood with its cult-favorite wagyu smash burgers. Created by chef Phillip Frankland Lee and skateboarder Neen Williams, the concept has grown quickly from its Austin roots into a national sensation. The signature double-patty burger is rich and flavorful, topped with American cheese, onions, and jalapeños for just the right kick. Pair it with beef tallow fries loaded “beast mode” for the full experience.
Location: 2828 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, California 90404, United States
Hermon’s offers one of the most refined burgers in Los Angeles, best enjoyed at the bar during happy hour. The “Ode to Chez” burger features a thick, juicy patty layered with soubise fondue, Bordelaise onions, and Dijon, all tucked into a soft sesame bun. It’s rich, indulgent, and thoughtfully constructed, making it a standout among the best burgers in Los Angeles. Reservations can be tough, so arriving early is key.
Location: 953 N Sycamore Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90038, US
At French restaurant Mr. T, the burger gets a distinctly upscale treatment. Built around a brisket blend patty, it’s topped with Comté and Mimolette cheese foam, sprouts, and a signature Mac T sauce. The result is a rich, layered bite that feels both familiar and entirely new. Served with crisp fries, it’s a refined take on a comfort food classic.
Location: 2001 South Western Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90018
Smack Burger delivers classic smash burger perfection from its bright yellow A-frame building. Each burger features crispy-edged patties, melted cheese, grilled onions, and a tangy house sauce layered onto a soft potato roll. Add-ons like onion rings or a drizzle of hot honey take things to the next level. Don’t skip the waffle fries, especially when loaded with cheese and sauce.
Location: 4114 Sepulveda Boulevard, STE E, Culver City, California 90230, United States
Mom’s List keeps things simple with high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. The burgers are made from grass-fed, grass-finished beef and served on soft buns with house-made sauces. Unique options, including a Lebanese-inspired kafta-style burger, add a creative twist. With hand-cut fries and old-school milkshakes, it’s a wholesome, satisfying stop.
Location: 4437 West Slauson Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90043
Somerville brings a stylish, community-driven vibe to the burger scene in View Park-Windsor Hills. Its Black Angus burger is layered with caramelized onion spread, cheddar, crispy onions, and pickles on a brioche bun. The flavors are rich and balanced, making it a reliable choice for a laid-back meal. Live jazz throughout the week adds to the experience.
Location: 5801 Cherry Avenue, Long Beach, California 90805, United States
Stormburger has built a strong following with its classic, no-frills approach to burgers. The menu features combo plates with fries or onion rings, making it an easy go-to for a hearty meal. Known for its quick service and consistent quality, it’s a favorite among locals. Early risers can even stop by for breakfast sandwiches before the lunch rush begins.
From chef-driven creations to nostalgic neighborhood staples, the best burgers in Los Angeles offer something for every craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something indulgent or straightforward, these spots prove that the humble burger remains one of the city’s most exciting bites.
Spring in Southern California invites a softer pace. The light shifts, the air warms, and suddenly, the idea of a reset feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity. Whether it’s a full weekend escape or a single indulgent afternoon, the best spa and wellness retreats near Los Angeles offer a chance to recharge, restore, and step briefly outside the rhythm of everyday life.
From oceanfront sanctuaries to desert hideaways, these destinations deliver the kind of calm that lingers long after you leave.
For those seeking a deeper reset, The Ranch Malibu is one of the most immersive spa and wellness retreats near Los Angeles. Known for its structured, results-driven programs, this retreat blends guided hikes, plant-based meals, and daily wellness routines in a serene mountain setting overlooking the Pacific.
It’s equal parts challenge and restoration, designed to leave you feeling physically lighter and mentally clear.
Perched above the Pacific, Terranea Resort Spa offers a coastal escape that feels worlds away from the city. The spa’s ocean-facing treatment rooms, tranquil pools, and eucalyptus steam rooms create a sensory experience rooted in the natural surroundings.
Among spa and wellness retreats near Los Angeles, this is one of the most effortlessly luxurious, perfect for a day of relaxation followed by a sunset along the cliffs.
A short drive into the desert leads to Two Bunch Palms, a historic retreat centered around mineral-rich hot springs. Surrounded by palm trees and mountain views, the property offers soaking pools, sound baths, and holistic treatments designed to soothe both body and mind.
The slower pace of the desert makes this one of the most grounding spa and wellness retreats near Los Angeles, ideal for a weekend reset under open skies.
Ojai has long been associated with wellness, and the Ojai Valley Inn Spa embodies that reputation beautifully. The spa’s village-like layout features private treatment suites, herb gardens, and outdoor soaking areas that encourage you to linger.
Treatments draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape, creating a deeply local experience. It’s one of the most serene spas and wellness retreats near Los Angeles, where time seems to slow just enough.
For a refresh that doesn’t require leaving the city, Shutters on the Beach Spa offers a polished coastal retreat right in Santa Monica. The experience is intimate and refined, with treatments designed to complement the calming energy of the ocean just steps away.
It’s a perfect reminder that some of the wellness retreats near LA can be found within the city itself.
A longtime favorite, Glen Ivy Hot Springs blends playful energy with classic spa rituals. Known for its signature Club Mud experience, the property also features mineral baths and garden spaces. Likewise, the amenities truly invite all-day relaxation. Glen Ivy remains one of the most popular spa and wellness retreats near Los Angeles for a daylong escape.
As spring settles in, spa and wellness retreats near Los Angeles offer more than just relaxation. They create space to reset, to breathe, and to return feeling just a little more like yourself. Whether you’re drawn to the ocean or the quiet stillness of the desert, the perfect refresh is closer than you think.
Spring entertaining in Los Angeles carries its own kind of rhythm. The light lingers longer, the air softens, and gatherings naturally move outdoors. For luxury homeowners, the table becomes more than a place setting. It becomes a curated experience—one that reflects both the season and a refined sense of style.
Creating a sophisticated spring tablescape is less about excess and more about intention. Each element, from linens to florals, should feel considered, layered, and effortlessly elegant.
The foundation of any tablescape begins with linens. For spring, opt for light, breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton in soft, neutral tones.
Shades like warm cream, soft taupe, or pale sage create a calm, inviting base while allowing other elements to stand out. A tablecloth offers a polished look, while a simple runner can feel more relaxed yet equally refined. Cloth napkins, loosely folded or gently draped, add a softness that paper simply cannot replicate.
Texture is key here. Even within a neutral palette, subtle variations in weave and fabric create visual depth without overwhelming the table.
Florals are the natural focal point of a sophisticated spring tablescape, but restraint is what keeps them feeling elevated.
Instead of oversized arrangements, consider smaller, thoughtfully placed groupings. Low-profile centerpieces allow for easy conversation while still adding beauty to the table. Choose blooms that reflect the season—ranunculus, tulips, or garden roses in muted tones like dusty blush, soft white, or pale yellow.
For a more modern approach, mix florals with greenery or even a few sculptural branches. The goal is to create a look that feels organic and slightly undone, rather than overly styled.
Dinnerware sets the tone for the entire dining experience. In luxury homes, this often means classic pieces with subtle detailing.
White or off-white plates remain timeless, allowing food and other design elements to shine. Layering chargers or accent plates can add dimension, especially in materials like stoneware or porcelain. Flatware in brushed gold, matte black, or polished silver introduces a touch of sophistication without feeling excessive.
Glassware should feel equally considered. Crystal or hand-blown glasses add elegance, while varied shapes for water, wine, and cocktails create a sense of occasion.
In Los Angeles, spring tablescapes are often designed with the outdoors in mind. Whether you are hosting on a patio, terrace, or garden, your table should complement its surroundings.
Incorporate natural materials like wood, rattan, or stone to echo the landscape. An outdoor rug beneath the table can help define the space, while soft lighting—such as lanterns or candles—adds warmth as the sun begins to set.
Consider the overall palette of your outdoor area and allow your tablescape to blend seamlessly with it. The most luxurious settings feel cohesive, as though every element belongs exactly where it is.
At its core, a sophisticated spring tablescape is about creating a moment. It is the interplay of texture, color, and light that transforms a simple meal into an experience.
For Los Angeles luxury homeowners, spring entertaining is an opportunity to celebrate both design and lifestyle. With thoughtful linens, curated florals, refined dinnerware, and an effortless connection to the outdoors, your table becomes a reflection of the season itself—fresh, elegant, and quietly unforgettable.
| Stock markets surged, and oil prices fell after President Trump announced a ceasefire with Iran. That included an agreement from Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. They have threatened to attack any ship that crosses, which has essentially stopped about 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas supplies, as well as other goods that had regularly passed through the Strait. Experts rate this as the largest disruption of oil supply ever. That caused energy prices to spike, threatening economies around the world. Investors welcomed the news, which led to a surge in stock market values.
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 9, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.37%, down from 6.46% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.74%, down slightly from 5.77% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year. Consumer prices spiked in March as energy prices jumped – The consumer price index (CPI) was released on Friday. It showed that consumer prices grew at an annual rate of 3.3% in March, up 0.9% from an annual increase of 2.4% in January and February. That marked its highest inflation rate in over 2 years. The core (CPI), which excludes food and energy, ticked up to 2.6% from one year ago, up just 0.1% from at 2.5% in February. That’s an indication that if energy prices subside, the headline CPI could adjust back down quickly. The Bureau of Economic Analysis released the February Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index (PCE), the Fed’s favorite gauge of inflation. It showed that PCE increased 2.8% from one year ago, unchanged from January. Core PCE, which excludes food and energy rose 3% from one year ago, down from 3.1% in January. The report was delayed due to the government shutdown, and February was before the Iran conflict began so it’s hard to gauge today’s PCE rate. Hopefully, it won’t follow the March CPI number. Below is a chart of the CPI rate since 2021 Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 47,915.57, up 5.3% from 45,504.67 last week. It is down 0.3% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 6,816.89, up 3.6% from 6,582.69 last week. The S&P is down 0.5% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. Nasdaq closed the week at 22,902.90, up 4.7% from 21,879.18 last week. It is down 1.5% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025. U.S. Treasury Bonds – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.31%, down slightly from 4.35% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.91%, unchanged from 4.91% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields. Next week the California Association of Realtors will release its March home sales report. We tabulate a little quicker, and you can get the same data today by city or zip code at RodeoRe.com. Have a Great Weekend! |
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 9, 2026, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.37%, down from 6.46% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.74%, down slightly from 5.77% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Wrap up the week with the latest tech news. From Meta’s Muse to the Moto Pad and more, we have you covered on the major headlines this week. Check in and stay connected with our round-up below!
A tiny magnetic display from Insta360 turns your phone’s best rear cameras into a front-facing selfie rig, letting you preview shots without flipping the device. The Snap connects over USB-C and relies on the host phone for power, so it stays lightweight and never needs its own battery. Touch controls let you operate camera apps and switch lenses, while an optional ring light aids low-light portrait shots. If you often want better rear-camera selfies, this accessory is a clever way to get pro-grade framing without replacing your phone.
Meta’s new Muse Spark model focuses on efficient multimodal generation and aims to speed up creative and assistant tasks across the company’s products. The rollout highlights improvements in reasoning and image-to-text capabilities while Meta positions Muse Spark as a foundational model for both research and consumer features. Early access is being staged so partners and developers can test integrations before wider availability. Overall, the launch signals Meta’s push to compete on model quality and tooling for real-world use cases.
Tractive expanded its lineup with the Dog 6 XL and Cat Mini, trackers that combine location tracking with more detailed health and activity insights for pets. The new devices offer longer battery life and refined sensors so owners can monitor sleep, activity, and potential health anomalies. Tractive’s app surfaces trends and alerts, which help caretakers spot slow changes before they become problems. For busy pet parents, this is a helpful upgrade that pairs GPS safety with wellness data in one platform.
Motorola is bringing the Moto Pad to the US as a modestly priced Android tablet with stylus support. The Moto Pad shifts focus to media consumption and light productivity. Additionally, the slate pairs a large display with a bundled G Stylus option on some Moto Pad models. Of course, these features aim to bridge casual tablet use and creativity on a budget. Motorola emphasized polish in software and pricing for the Moto Pad that undercuts many premium competitors while still offering key tablet features. If you want a simple tablet for reading, sketching, and streaming, the Moto Pad looks like a practical choice.
Pebblebee’s new Halo Safe Haven doubles as a location tracker and a personal safety alarm with a loud siren and strobe to draw attention in emergencies. The device integrates with location services so contacts can be notified and responders can get a live position if the user triggers an alert. Pebblebee pitches the Halo at runners, hikers, and caregivers who want low-effort situational protection without a monthly fee. For users who value both tracking and active deterrence, the Halo combines features that previously required multiple gadgets.
Reddit is deprecating r/all as traditionally known, shifting how platform-wide discovery will work, and giving communities more control over visibility and content flow. The change reflects ongoing efforts to reduce overexposure of controversial or low-quality posts while bolstering localized and interest-based discovery paths. Moderators and power users should expect adjustments in traffic patterns and new curation tools from the company. For creators and advertisers, it means rethinking how to reach broad Reddit audiences as the platform prioritizes community relevance.
Flipboard launched Surf to let users build social sites that mix Bluesky, Mastodon, RSS, and other federated sources into curated pages. The feature is aimed at readers and independent publishers who want a unified, magazine-style view of decentralized content without hopping across apps. Surf emphasizes editorial control, letting curators highlight posts, add commentary, and shape a narrative from many federated feeds. For anyone exploring the Fediverse, Flipboard Surf offers a friendly on-ramp that blends discovery with familiar magazine layout.
Spring is in the air, and your weekly round-up of weekend fun has arrived. From BagelFest West to Ventura County Farm Day, and more, there is something for everyone. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood with our weekend events round-up for April 10 through April 12.
When: Until May 1
Where: Natural History Museum | Los Angeles
What: Spend your Friday night among dinosaurs and DJs at the Natural History Museum’s beloved First Fridays series. Now in its 20th season, the KCRW-presented event brings live music, DJ sets, and dancing back to the museum’s iconic diorama halls from February through May. A new discussion series, Life, From Our Guts to the Galaxy, explores big ideas about the natural world each month. Guests can also wander the exhibits, sip cocktails, and enjoy bites from rotating local food trucks.
When: April 12
Where: Koreatown
What: BagelFest West is making its Los Angeles debut this Sunday, bringing its cult-favorite New York energy to the West Coast. The public session offers unlimited tastings from standout bagel spots like Belle’s, Boichik, and Hank’s, alongside the chance to vote for “Best Bagel” and “Schmear of the Year.” Beyond the bites, guests can dive into expert panels on dough-making, catch live demos, and enjoy a family-friendly kids zone. It’s equal parts food festival, carb celebration, and deliciously good time.
When: April 11 – April 12
Where: Various Locations Across LA
What: Discover a more local kind of wildflower magic during this self-guided garden tour hosted by the Theodore Payne Foundation. Across 42 private gardens throughout Greater Los Angeles, you’ll find vibrant blooms like poppies, morning glories, and desert marigolds—all rooted in native, drought-friendly landscaping. Each garden features at least 50 percent native plants, offering both inspiration and a peek into thoughtfully curated outdoor spaces. Your ticket grants access to all locations, with 20 gardens open on Saturday and the remaining 22 on Sunday.
When: Until August 23
Where: Westwood
What: Explore the sensory side of contemporary art in this immersive exhibition featuring works made with living and organic materials like cacao, clay, and cochineal. Showcasing over 20 artists from across the Americas, the installations invite visitors to engage through touch, sound, and scent. On April 4, an after-hours preview adds DJ sets, hands-on art-making, and courtyard festivities, all free to attend.
When: April 11
Where: West LA
What: The Sierra Club debuts its inaugural Earth Day concert, Sierra Sessions, an intimate evening of music and storytelling hosted by Novena Carmel. Set at Village Studios, the lineup features eco-conscious artists like Hurray for the Riff Raff, Irene Diaz, Dr. Lyla June, Rising Appalachia, and Rozzi, each sharing songs and reflections on the planet. Can’t attend in person? The concert will stream on YouTube on Earth Day, with Sierra Club chapters hosting watch parties nationwide. Guests who attend live can also stay for a post-show after-party to keep the celebration going.
When: April 12
Where: The Getty | Westside
What: Spend a spring afternoon where art, sound, and nature beautifully collide at the Getty Center’s Central Garden. On April 12, the museum hosts its latest Poetry in the Garden event in collaboration with Dublab, drawing inspiration from experimental icons like Yvonne Rainer, John Cage, and Benjamin Patterson. Expect a dreamy blend of live poetry, music, and DJ sets unfolding throughout the garden’s lush landscape. Reserve your free spot, bring a blanket, and settle in for an afternoon that feels equal parts cultural escape and sonic meditation.
When: April 12
Where: Glendale
What: Raise a glass at the 11th Annual Montrose Craft Beer Fest on April 12 along Honolulu Avenue, presented by the Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce. This lively 21+ event brings together top local breweries for unlimited tastings, alongside food samples from Montrose restaurants for perfect pairings. Expect a festive atmosphere with live music, lawn games, contests, and a one-block street fair feel that keeps the energy high all afternoon. Early check-in begins at 11:30 a.m., with tastings running from 12 to 4 p.m., rain or shine.
When: Multiple Dates
Where: Accent Dance Studios | 940 West Alameda Avenue, Burbank
What: Move, sweat, and step into your power with this high-energy, music-driven workout. Blending cardio, mat Pilates, and uplifting affirmation chants, the class focuses on how you feel, not how you look, while fostering a supportive, body-positive community. Expect a fun, feel-good session that leaves you energized, connected, and confident in your own skin.
When: Multiple Dates
Where: Burbank Town Center | 201 East Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank
What: Shop handmade and support local creators at the SoCal Etsy Guild Market, held the first weekend of every month at Burbank Town Center. This indoor three-day event features Southern California artisans, live art, DIY activities, giveaways, and a wide mix of art, vintage finds, original designs, and artisanal foods. With free parking and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a fun way to spend the weekend browsing unique goods and meeting local makers.
When: April 11
Where: Various Locations Around Ventura
What: Spend a day reconnecting with where your food comes from at the 13th Annual Ventura County Farm Day on April 11, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hosted by Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG), this free, countywide event invites visitors to explore 15 local farms, ranches, and agricultural sites through behind-the-scenes tours, tastings, tractor rides, and hands-on activities for all ages. It’s a rare chance to meet the farmers behind the food and experience the region’s agricultural roots up close. Be sure to check the official trail map in advance, as some locations require reservations.
When: April 11
Where: 5550 Medea Valley Dr, Agoura Hills
What: A longtime favorite since 1986, the Nature Made Great Race returns to Agoura Hills on Saturday, April 11, 2026, for a high-energy, family-friendly day of running. Participants can choose from a variety of race options, including the Cheseboro Half Marathon, Old Agoura 10K, Deena Kastor 5K, and a 1-Mile Fun Run for all ages. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just out for the vibes, it’s a scenic, community-driven event that welcomes runners of every level.
When: April 12
Where: Thousand Oaks Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks
What: Celebrate the power of storytelling at the Thousand Oaks Library’s One City, One Book event, featuring this year’s selection, The Fox Wife. This community-wide program invites residents to connect through a shared reading experience, sparking conversation and bringing people together through literature. This Sunday’s special event includes a cultural experience with kimono instructor Akane Mashimo, who will share insights into traditional styles and significance, along with a hands-on obi-tying demonstration. Attendees can even bring their own yukata to participate, making it an immersive and meaningful celebration of both story and culture.
