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Best Things To Do This Weekend In LA - November 27

LA's CRITICAL MASS bike ride
(Credit: Kristopher Gee)

Cornell psychology professor Thomas Gilovich has been publishing research since 2003 that leans it's focus on the idea that people are measurably happier when they spend their time and money on experiences and not things. While the notion seems to have some inherent common sense, the science is nothing short of incredible. That's something to consider as one of the biggest consumer shopping weekends is set to begin. What if Black Friday was more about getting out and getting on than it was about scoring $30 bucks off a flatscreen? Channeling a bit of Professor Gilovich, here is a list of things to get out and do, not buy, for your post Thanksgiving weekend in Los Angeles.

Friday, November 27
LA's CRITICAL MASS bike ride
(Credit: Kristopher Gee)

Critical Mass Bike Ride
LA Critical Mass
America's Largest Community Bike Ride
The Corner of Wilshire Blvd. & Western Ave.
Los Angeles, CA.
www.lacriticalmass.org

The premise of LA's non-profit Critical Mass is simple: creating a community via cycling. Every month the organization spearheads a group bicycle ride that begins at Wilshire and Western and twists and turns some 30 miles through the city of Angels. This month's ride in particular holds added importance, as the community is coming together to commemorate the spirit of Paris in a show of solidarity, particularly for Nohemi Gonzalez, a Cal State Long Beach student gunned down in the attacks. There is no fee or other requirements. Other than an expectation that riders are safe, the only demand is that everyone enjoy the ride. Critical Mass is helping people ditch their dependence on conventional entertainment, get to pedaling, and reigniting a romance with their city with every rounding corner.

Saturday, November 28
LACMA50for50
(Credit: Museum Associates/LACMA )

Frank Gehry At LACMA
LACMA Museum
5905 Wilshire Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 857-6000
www.lacma.org

Throughout the past 50 plus years, Frank Gehry has made a name for himself in the world of design and architecture. Known worldwide, he has had a hand and his vision on some of the most iconic buildings, including LA's beautiful Walt Disney Concert Hall. Today, stop by LACMA for a examination of his extraordinary work throughout the years. From the 1960's when he started his firm in Los Angeles to today where he has helped build incredible pieces of art, the exhibition will show over 200 drawings, many of which have never been seen by the public. Also on display will be 65 models which show Gehry's thinking when constructing buildings. The exhibition is on display until March of 2016.
 

Downtown LA Walking Tours
(credit: Dev R./Yelp)

Take A Walking Tour of Downtown LA
Downtown LA Walking Tours
600 W. 9th St., Suite 603
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(213) 399-3820
www.dtlawalkingtours.com

For a real look into the history and culture of LA, why not take a walking tour of downtown LA today? Downtown LA Walking Tours offers public and private tours for parties, individuals, or groups. These tours are not just for tourists either. Instead, locals come to explore everything from the famed Bradbury building to great eats and more. Visit www.dtlawalkingtours.com for more information.

Sunday, November 29
Photo 2 - Santa Claus in the Hollywood Christmas Parade - Photo by William Kidston - DSC_0792
(credit: William Kidston)

Watch The Hollywood Christmas Parade
Hollywood Blvd. (Between Orange and Vine)
www.thehollywoodchristmasparade.org

Taking over the heart of Hollywood from Orange to Vine and back around on Sunset Boulevard, this is the 84th installment of the Thanksgiving Weekend tradition. From the equestrian shows, the marching bands, the giant balloons, and celebrities including appearances by Oscar De La Hoya, Grand Marshalls Penn & Teller, and even Grumpy Cat himself, Sunday night should be quite the spectacle. This year's live music includes a tribute to American Idol, with performances from series standouts like Daughtry, Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken, and a special show from India.Arie.

Article by Ramon Gonzales.
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