Venice Beach was buzzing with excitement today, Monday, August 12, 2024, as Fortnite’s iconic Peely characters made a surprise appearance to promote the upcoming crossover game with the Marvel Universe. The costumed characters were seen interacting with beachgoers, walking along the shoreline, and visiting popular spots like the Venice Skate Park and the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk.
Fortnite, a popular online video game, has teamed up with Marvel Universe, the fictional shared universe that hosts the stories of many beloved comic book titles and media published by Marvel Comics, for this much-anticipated crossover event.
A lively crowd gathered at Santa Monica Beach on Sunday, August 11, 2024, to dance to the electrifying beats of DJ @musicbycaffeine. The event, marked by high energy and diverse participants, added to the vibrant atmosphere along the coast. The video compilation of the day captures not only the dance party but also a tour of the iconic Santa Monica Beach Bike Path, the melodic chants of Hare Krishnas on the Santa Monica Pier, and concludes with a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean, showcasing the dynamic spirit of Santa Monica Beach.
Hundreds of participants gathered along Ocean Front Walk in Santa Monica on Sunday, August 11, 2024, for the Hot Girl Walk® event, an empowering initiative that combines physical activity with personal reflection. The event, centered around a 4-mile walk, encourages participants to focus on three key aspects of their lives: gratitude, goal-setting, and self-confidence. By reflecting on what they are grateful for, considering their goals and how to achieve them, and embracing their self-worth, participants are guided to clear their minds and boost their confidence. The Hot Girl Walk® is more than just a fitness activity; it is a movement designed to promote mental and physical wellness through community support in an inclusive and accessible environment, uniting women from all backgrounds in a shared journey of empowerment and well-being. For more information, follow the official account @hotgirlwalk.
Santa Monica Police officers arrested a homeless man on Saturday, August 10, 2024, after he allegedly brandished a knife at a tourist in Downtown Santa Monica. The incident occurred as the tourist, accompanied by his family, walked along Broadway Avenue. The suspect, who had no prior connection to the tourist, reportedly began verbally abusing him before pulling out a knife and threatening to kill him.
The tourist, who was trained in Judo, managed to diffuse the situation by calmly raising his hands and backing away. After the suspect walked away, continuing to yell at others, the tourist contacted the police, concerned the man might pose a danger to others.
Officers located the suspect shortly afterward at the Third Street Promenade. The tourist was brought to the scene to identify the suspect, who was confirmed as the individual who brandished the knife. The suspect was then taken into custody by the police
The incident is the latest in a series of concerns raised by residents and visitors about safety in the downtown area, particularly with regard to encounters with individuals experiencing homelessness. Santa Monica Police have increased patrols in the area to address these concerns and ensure public safety.
No injuries were reported in this incident, and the tourist and his family were unharmed. The investigation is ongoing.
𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗘: A portion of this video has been muted to avoid copyright issues, as background music was being played by a street performer. This step was taken to ensure compliance with YouTube’s policies and to maintain the availability of the video
Venice Beach, CA - August 9, 2024 - Crowds gathered at Windward Plaza today as the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, in partnership with PlayLA, hosted the first in a series of citywide watch parties celebrating the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. The event, held at the Venice Beach Recreation Center, streamed live coverage of men's soccer, women's volleyball, and break dancing from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The series of viewing parties, announced by the L.A. Department of Recreation and Parks, aims to bring the excitement of the 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games to communities across Los Angeles. Through the PlayLA Youth and Adaptive Youth Sports Programs, the initiative also seeks to inspire local youth by providing access to quality sports programs at neighborhood recreation centers. PlayLA, California’s largest youth sports development commitment, serves as a legacy initiative leading up to and following the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Mayor Karen Bass expressed her hope that these events will build excitement as Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games for the third time in history. Mayor Bass, who will make history as the first Black woman to receive the official Olympic flag during the Paris Games Closing Ceremony, emphasized the importance of ensuring the Games benefit all Angelenos, particularly by supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and promoting lasting improvements throughout the city.
In anticipation of the 2028 Games, the PlayLA program is designed to engage youth of all abilities in a wide range of sports activities, including adaptive sports, with the goal of eliminating economic barriers and fostering inclusivity. Registration for youth aged 5-17 is just $10, thanks to an investment from the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee and the International Olympic Committee.
As the world turns its eyes to Paris, the spirit of the Olympics has already begun to touch the hearts of young Angelenos, starting today at Venice Beach.
The vibrant spirit of Indian culture takes center stage at Venice Beach during the 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots on August 4, 2024. The event kicks off with a parade where Hare Krishna devotees hand-pull three fully decorated, 40-foot tall “chariots” along Main Street in Santa Monica.
Hosted by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), the festival brings together thousands of eager attendees who are treated to a mesmerizing display of free entertainment, cultural exhibits, and captivating booths. The festival serves as a vivacious celebration of Lord Jagannatha, revered as the cosmic Lord of the Universe, and pays homage to its roots tracing back an astonishing five thousand years to the holy city of Jagannatha Puri, India.
The festival's allure is magnificently embodied by the resplendent parade, a cherished tradition that now unfolds in countries around the globe. Participants unite in jubilation as they chant the revered 16-word Vaishnava Mahā-mantra, "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare," infusing the atmosphere with a deep sense of spirituality and unity.
A highlight of the festival is the site at Venice Beach, which features a stage with cultural performances and kirtan, a free feast, Govinda's Gift Shop, plenty of prasadam (sanctified food) offerings, and activities for children. Attendees can enjoy captivating performances of traditional Indian dance and music, participate in interactive workshops, and explore a bustling marketplace offering a variety of arts, crafts, and literature. Numerous food stalls serve delicious vegetarian cuisine, providing a feast for the senses.
The Festival of the Chariots not only pays tribute to ancient traditions but also fosters a sense of community and cultural exchange. Attendees revel in a sumptuous free feast, indulging in a rich array of delectable Indian cuisine. Throughout the event, a diverse array of exhibits and booths showcase the finest aspects of Indian culture, enriching the experience for all those who attend.
The event's prominence underscores the profound influence of ISKCON, which works tirelessly to spread the message of devotion and spiritual connection across the world. The Festival of the Chariots, a manifestation of this dedication, has transcended boundaries to become a universal celebration that harmoniously blends ancient rituals with contemporary enthusiasm.
As the radiant chariots glide through Santa Monica's streets, accompanied by the resonant echoes of the Vaishnava Mahā-mantra, the 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots leaves an indelible mark, reiterating the enduring importance of cultural preservation and shared spiritual heritage.
SANTA MONICA, CA — Hare Krishna devotees hand-pull three fully decorated, 40-foot tall “chariots” along Main Street in Santa Monica today, August 4, 2024, during the 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots parade.
This grand spectacle, hosted by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), brings together thousands of eager attendees who are treated to a mesmerizing display of free entertainment, cultural exhibits, and captivating booths. The festival serves as a vivacious celebration of Lord Jagannatha, revered as the cosmic Lord of the Universe, and pays homage to its roots tracing back an astonishing five thousand years to the holy city of Jagannatha Puri, India.
The festival's allure is magnificently embodied by the resplendent parade, a cherished tradition that now unfolds in countries around the globe. Participants unite in jubilation as they chant the revered 16-word Vaishnava Mahā-mantra, "Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare," infusing the atmosphere with a deep sense of spirituality and unity.
The Festival of the Chariots not only pays tribute to ancient traditions but also fosters a sense of community and cultural exchange. Attendees revel in a sumptuous free feast, indulging in a rich array of delectable Indian cuisine. Throughout the event, a diverse array of exhibits and booths showcase the finest aspects of Indian culture, enriching the experience for all those who attend.
In addition to the parade, the festival site at Venice Beach features a stage with cultural performances and kirtan, a free feast, Govinda's Gift Shop, plenty of prasadam (sanctified food) offerings, and activities for children. Attendees can enjoy captivating performances of traditional Indian dance and music, participate in interactive workshops, and explore a bustling marketplace offering a variety of arts, crafts, and literature. Numerous food stalls serve delicious vegetarian cuisine, providing a feast for the senses.
The event's prominence underscores the profound influence of ISKCON, which works tirelessly to spread the message of devotion and spiritual connection across the world. The Festival of the Chariots, a manifestation of this dedication, has transcended boundaries to become a universal celebration that harmoniously blends ancient rituals with contemporary enthusiasm.
As the radiant chariots glide through Santa Monica's streets, accompanied by the resonant echoes of the Vaishnava Mahā-mantra, the 48th Annual Festival of the Chariots leaves an indelible mark, reiterating the enduring importance of cultural preservation and shared spiritual heritage.
