On Saturday July 16th, 2011, as I picked up an incoming call a smile spread across my face. It was my best friend. Her voice sounded slightly alarmed as she asked “… are you okay?”. My response was equally filled with confusion as I replied “yeah… I’m fine….? What’s up?”. She explained she had been watching CNN and MSNBC, hearing reports of “chaos and ‘Carmageddon’ in Los Angeles”. I laughed and assured her I was fine. We were actually enjoying the slowed pace of life. In a city with perpetual sunshine “Carmageddon” felt like a long-overdue snow-day. The pace slowed. People walked, biked or spent time with their neighbors. I swear that people even SMILED more. How could you not? I mean – how cool is L.A. without all the cars?
The big bad city seems better prepared for Carmageddon Part II this weekend. I was more than amused to receive a postcard from the city’s Metro system informing our household of alternate transportation options available. Me? I’m taking this as a personal challenge to be car-free all weekend. As a former east-coaster, I adore fewer cars and being on foot or bike (not always practical in L.A.). You don’t have to live in L.A. to create a car-free (almost spelled that as care-free! Hey, Freud!) weekend. There will be 9,000,000+ people rallying with you in spirit, no matter where in the world you may be. But if you are here…
WHAT TO DO THIS WEEKEND IN L.A.
- hoopLA – my friend Whitney curates a great blog of cool events happening in/around L.A.
- Pedal Power, LAist’s guide on where/what do do if you’re on bike
- HuffPost’s roundup of bike parties!
- Artmageddon, a comprehensive map + guide of theaters, galleries, museums and music by neighborhood
- Wine, Food & Beer festival rundown… yes – this is a great time to have a party! ;)
Love it! Last year during Carmageddon I went from the westside to downtown in less than 12 minutes. It was so magical. Who knows what will happen this year… Maybe I’ll throw a west of the 405 Carmageddon party? With Carmageddon-tinis?? XOXO
I was just thinking what the heck I was going to do this weekend. I am thinking a BBQ with local friends and the flea market on farifax sunday (I am hoping no one leaves the house so I get the good stuff) but I am glad to see you have posted some informative sites of fun things to do! Love and Shine CourtStar
Ha! The hype is way worse than the reality of the situation. Last years carmageddon made driving in LA so enjoyable!