Oh hey, August. When did you show up? Usually this is the time of summer when the heat everywhere else in LA catches up to us at the coast, but we've been so busy enjoying clear skies and sizzling beach days since spring, we were completely caught off guard when we realized that this weekend is the First Friday of August. (August!) Don't feel bad for us.
If you're headed to the beach, we'd love to recommend having a drink and appetizer at The Whaler. It just got revamped with a fresh look, new menu, great beer selection, and also check out the new Jonas Never mural on the side.
August is such a great month for us Venice dwellers. The season delivers the best of summer and the first taste of fall. Our local Farmers' Market is brimming with gorgeous tomatoes, peaches, plums, and we're starting to see some of the first fresh-picked apples, beautiful squash and squash blossoms too. Sidenote: We're really looking forward to updating and adding to our list of favorite pumpkin dishes come fall. While you're at the Farmers' Market, pick up some extra goodies to make a side dish, salad or dessert for Saturday's Potluck and Community BBQ at Oakwood Park. There will be games, entertainment, and lots of familiar faces.
You've no doubt been taking full advantage of your boards and beach gear this summer, and if you've been thinking about trading up or adding to the collection, don't miss the annual Deus Surf Swap also happening this Saturday afternoon. There will be lots of vendors with great deals on new stuff. Plus, Deus apparel will be up to 70% off. There will also be a free consignment area where you can sell your own boards for cash.
On Sunday, the Mar Vista Farmers' Market turns 8 and will be throwing a good old fashioned country fair, complete with a pie baking contest, to celebrate its bday. Definitely bring the kiddies to this one and sign them up for the egg toss or corn shucking contest.
Oh, and you know what else this weekend is? It's probably going to be back-to-school shopping for a lot of you kids out there. Hooray! (Err, awww.) If you are looking for some really rad stationery, we love the cool finds and great prices at MUJI, the new Japanese general store on Main. Here's a video we made showing you all the great stuff you can find.