After the fiasco last weekend known as the "Awesometown Food Truck Festival" and seeing that Lardon…read morewas no longer on the list for Sunday was tempted to skip this. I saw that Jin N. checked in there on Saturday and dropped him a quick note asking how it was. He replied back with his recommendation that it was worth going to so we made the trip down. The event was scheduled to start at 11:30 and we found street parking a block away about 5 minutes after that. I was completely fearing the worst with the crowds and as we walked into the lot, there was maybe 30-40 other people there. Even when we left at 12:45 would have to say the worst line was 10 deep at the most and the majority of the trucks had lines that were 2 or 3 people deep. The trucks were set up in a "U" around the parking lot with lots of room and tables. There were a few trucks there that I had never seen before and really liked that we were able to talk with the owners. They loved the fact that my daughter was taking an interest in food and asked what we liked, didn't like and what we looked for when going to a truck. It felt like they were honestly looking for feedback instead of just having to throw something out the window to keep the lines mooving (get it, like a cattle call??) The crew from Wholly Rollers did a great job circulating to see that everyone was having a great experience which they should get kudos for! My only regret is that I didn't head down on Friday and Saturday nights as well!!! The next time they have an event, I'll be there as this is how a food truck festival should be set up and run!

[November 12th event]…read more First off, I just want to say that this was a really great experience. Props to Wholly Rollers Events for putting on a successful street food fest!! I missed the first event last month mainly by choice because I didn't eat so well the previous week so I figured it would be a bad idea to end it with more less than healthy food. My wife and I made it out to this one intending to limit ourselves to mostly small bites. We rolled up at about 7pm Friday and easily found valet parking right next door for $2. Even before we stepped into the parking lot, we could sense it was just the right atmosphere for gourmet food truck fans. Trucks were lined up on either side and at the end of the space with plenty of tables and chairs in the middle. DJ Kino was spinning good tunes. We noticed all walks of life there...from young, hip 20-somethings to families with young kids. Security guards kept things in order and the clean-up crew was very attentive making sure trash cans did not overflow and tables were wiped down. Now, onto the food... Shrimp Pimp: 2 drunken shrimp tacos -- sherry ginger marinated shrimp sauteed and served with, I believe, pickled jicama and carrots on 2 tortillas. Verdict: 2.5 stars (out of 5). They were just okay. Didn't really taste a lot of marinade in the shrimp. Thought the tortillas could've been quick-grilled for a little more flavor. I have to say I was expecting this truck would have at least 1 Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp over steamed rice dish. I think that would round out the menu a bit. The Guinness-marinated shrimp & chips looked really tasty though. Patty Wagon: 2 "Shine On Harvest Moon" sliders -- a ground beef burger with Havarti cheese, warm bacon/cabbage/leek slaw, slice of pink lady apple, bit of mayo with homemade pickle on a toasted roll. Verdict: 5 stars. Delicious! Great grubbing food. I had mine w/out the apple since I'm allergic to raw apples. I could taste pretty much every ingredient. The grass-fed ground beef reminded me of beef I had on a trip to Ireland where they have some of the best in the world. It was perfectly-cooked and juicy. The roll had just the right crispy crust while still pillow-soft in the middle. Willoughby Road: Twice fried chicken w/grilled watermelon and side of creamy mac & cheese. Verdict: 3 stars. Chicken was greasier than I'm used to. The batter had a slightly sweet flavor w/a bit of a kick. The chicken meat itself was fairly juicy and not dry. I don't normally care for watermelon but grilling it enhances the flavor. I liked it. The mac & cheese was less than impressive. The consistency was pretty good but the flavor was lacking. I tasted more of the pasta itself than cheese. The Street Hawker (Singaporean): Fried rice w/shrimp, carrots, peas, onions, a bit of scrambled egg and topped with cilantro and red chili pepper. Verdict: 4 stars. Full of flavor! I couldn't totally place the seasoning. There was definitely soy sauce but I couldn't tell what else. It was slightly smokey. The color was a rich, dark brown. The rice was not quite sticky like most places which actually was just fine. I must mention we asked to make it not so spicy so I'm not sure how spicy it normally is. Good portion for $8. We wanted to eat it all but we saved half for tomorrow. Ahn-Joo (Korean): 3 small, grilled skewers of ginger & soy marinated beef w/cherry tomatoes. Verdict: 4 stars. Great flavor! The tomatoes complemented the beef perfectly. A few of the beef pieces were a tiny bit chewy--seemed to have a bit more fat. Other than that, great snack! Mango Tango: Peach Italian ice. Verdict: 5 stars. Texture was just right. Actual peach chunks. If it wasn't too chilly I would've eaten it up within 10 minutes. Generous portion for a small size ($4). My wife also had a grilled Nutella bhang w/berries from Ahn-Joo which I did not taste. It's basically a grilled Nutella sandwich w/fresh berries sprinkled with powdered sugar. Looked tasty! Again, I felt like the event was put together pretty well. Everyone seemed satisfied (except for one older lady in front of us at the Shrimp Pimp who had apparently asked for something not spicy but it was still too spicy for her. She later apologized for complaining and the truck manager made sure she was satisfied). I forgot to mention the large projected designs (one for Wholly Rollers, the other snowflakes) on the side of a tall office building next door. Classy! Plenty of seating for everyone. The DJ didn't play dancy, pop music all night. He actually threw in some good mainstream rock songs too which was a nice change. Great job Wholly Rollers!! Looking forward to the next one. This should be a WEEKLY thing like The Brig in Venice!!

--Info, Atmosphere & Service-- A Taste of Encino is a…read moreyearly one-day event hosted by the Encino Chamber of Commerce. This year it was it's 29th annual event! Ventura Blvd is closed down from Amestoy Ave. to Balboa Ave for several hours. The street is lined up with various booths/vendors (over 50 I believe from this year). This year, besides the booths and vendors they also had food trucks (6 of them), a music stage, a beer and wine garden (a couple mixed drinks included) and a kids fun zone at the park off Genesta Ave. Vendors/booths included all sorts of things from different businesses both near and far such as craft style products to home improvement businesses and more. Visit as many booths and vendors as you'd like. Admission is free! --Parking & Prices-- Various parking is available within walking distance, mainly via Ventura Blvd. Admission is free, and some vendors/booths might give away a freebie. Besides that, there's various items to purchase at different costs for items and food/drinks.

This was my second time at this event. Honestly, it was ok. A nice afternoon out and about. Just be…read moreprepared with parking situation. They have the roads closed from Kester all the way down to Van Nuys Blvd on Ventura. There is someone controlling traffic which is nice. But parking will be crazy throughout the neighborhood. If you entering from Kester, that's where all the kids ride are held. There's a few things for them with zip line, the bouncy slides, and some rides. It's not a big selections but good for the young one. Ticket booth was right in the middle where rides are. We arrived not to long after they started. Around 12:30 which none of the games were even set up yet. By the time we left, they were up. The street fair seems to be more business vendors and food trucks. They did have pet adoption that brought loads of people to the sections. Two stages, the main one right in the middle while there was a smaller one at the opposite side on Van Nuys Blvd. Business were still open which is a big thing for them as it brings people inside. There's also a section that's blocked off for the adults alcohol section. Someone was at the entrance checking people's id. Overall, it was a nice little afternoon spent out. Was there a lot of vendors, somewhat. More of business promoting themselves and getting words out. They did have a good amount of food vendors which was nice.

A great way to get out there and see the neighborhood. I live a few miles down the street, and love…read morethese outdoor fairs, because there's always a fun energy, lots of local businesses and organizations, and often some free samples and local things to try, so I know what restaurant or business to look out for next time I'm driving through the area. Parking is usually alright, but will likely be around a half mile walk, unless you live around the area or get extra lucky. The event is often hosted in the hotter part of the year as well, so if you're not a fan of the heat, that could be a concern. Personally, it doesn't bother me. It's great to see so many local businesses come out and give back to the community a bit. I'm glad we have this type of street fair on my side of town, and I'll plan to come every year they have it.

Worldfest is an all day fun filled vegetarian/green festival. The perfect place for me! I have been…read moregoing to this festival almost every year. In addition to all the vegetarian food and restaurant booths, there are animals to adopt, clothes and shoes to buy and much, much more! I even got to pet a cow last year. There are speakers and entertainment everywhere you turn. A vet answering questions, an author discussing their books, a vegetarian cartoonist? Yep, you can find them here! Do you want to be a little more 'green'? Do you want to learn how to eat a little better? Or maybe you just like animals and are considering adding one to your family? You can do it all at Worldfest. And all for the small admission cost of $5-$7 (and it is a non-profit event). A few tips: Parking- you can park for free along Victory Sunscreen- Apply liberally. Repeat. Water-if you bring your own reuseable bottle, they will supply free filtered water. Have fun!

5 stars because…read more.... It's a festival. Though I was hungover, and did not have enough patience to fully take advantage of everything this festival had to offer - I respect it for being positive. I tried some chow mein and a steak kabob from One World. I wanted sweets but didnt get that far. One of my favorite parts of being here was the minute I walked in and heard the music on the main stage. Who was it you ask? It was the wonderful Quetzal Guerrero: http://www.qviolin.com/ If you have never hear this guy - please click the link above and check him out whenever you see his name. He is the truth. There was various types of dogs. Dogs that have never seen outside the television or computer. Afghan hounds walk funny but they're cute. There was a goat there who might have an identity crisis later in life. I'm thinking the goat thinks it may be a dog. Poor thing. Most memorable moment was when I was walking with ol'girl. She said "look a pony". I told her it was a unicorn. She said "oh my god, but, wait, dont unicorns have that thing on their heads". Priceless and totally worth crawling myself out of bed.

Came here on a wednesday around 9am no wait to get in. Ticket 5 dollars parking lot free. Serivce…read morefriendly. Took around 30 minutes to walk everything. Its in a loop. Restrooms inside clean. It was a really nice and relaxing well kept garden. Cool history and plenty of photo opportunities. It had wildlife as well ducks and goose. All in all a hidden gem.

What an amazing oasis in the middle of the SFV! I'm so glad this garden has reopened to the public…read more The grounds are beautiful and serene, and I really appreciate how they've integrated nature with sustainability by using reclaimed water to supply the garden's pond. We visited today and were lucky enough to catch a performance by the Taiko Project. Their performance honestly gave me chills! Love that they also talked about the history of taiko in Japan and US and they even had volunteers at the end of the show to try taiko drumming! There was also Kamishibai storytelling in the tea garden, which the kids really enjoyed. They also have Japanese Garden "I Spy" sheet for the kids to do and Clean Water Patrol activity book. This is def one of those low stress, high vibe activities that I highly recommend. Just a heads-up though, outside food and drinks aren't allowed inside, but water is ok. There are restrooms near the entrance as well as behind the tea garden. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids. We had such a relaxing afternoon and are already looking forward to coming back for more events at this little oasis.

This is a great activity to add to your list when it comes to seeing Christmas lights. It's only 1…read morehouse that goes all out in this block it seems like so you wont be there for long. Parking is free but a bit tricky Overall add this to you list of Christmas lights to check out

All went to perfect at doctor Fleming's office! He is such a caring and knowledgeable of his craftread more

I was able to attend the festival this past weekend, and I had a great time…read more As a foodie, I noticed that it lacked more food bites than drinks. But that is ok, I still enjoyed myself overall. The event had a VIP section, GA tables, vendors, and a nice dance floor with live music playing. The event was organized well, security noted at the front. I felt safe being there. Parking was easy to get to, free and large lot. Event was held next to the parking lot; you see the entrance pathway. Staff members were helpful with check-ins, and I received my nice wine glass/dish upon checking in. Got to try a lot of red wine, seltzers, beer, and other spirits. Got to meet new people, including some vendors which were super nice to talk to. Getting to know about businesses that wanted more exposure. I loved going to the photo booth several times. I was able to use props and make my photoshoots more fun. Really nice memories. The weather was perfect too. Couldn't ask for more. Overall, since it was a much smaller event, it felt like I was able to taste most of the spirits available.

I had been wanting to attend this event for a long time, so I was excited to finally experience it…read more This event supports ONEgeneration and the programs and services they provide for older adults and young children, which made the day feel even more meaningful. As someone who attends a lot of food events, I did expect it to be a bit larger with more variety. That is the only reason I am taking off one star. That said, what they offered was still very well done. It was so nice having so many great San Fernando Valley spots all in one place. I spent most of my time walking from booth to booth, trying everything, sipping, snacking, and going back for more. Every booth delivered. The atmosphere was also a highlight. There was music playing, people were having fun, and the overall energy was so positive. Parking was very easy and free, with a large lot right next to the event, which is always a major plus. Overall, it was a nice event for a great cause.

HOw can I explain just how bad this event turned out. I feared for my health it was just that bad…read more The organization who put on this event needs to be jailed. 3 hours just to get into the event in over 105 degree weather. People hoarded together like cattle. All complaints have been erased and banned from their website. To top it off this was not a cheap event. The minimum entry ticket was $60.00.

How can I start never never never in my life have I been so mad with the lack of help, security,…read moreorganization, etc we paid for diamond box seating and they didn't even have a table or chairs for us.... There was a lady talking about she paid $54 to get in the park not to mention $25 to park and had a seat up front. Well we paid over $1500 dollars and was standing while they went looking for us table and chairs.... We left because of the lack of planning on there part and now can't get them to even respond about our refund... This has been the worst event every in my life...and all I want is my money back......cause this was SOME BULLSHIT

I grew up in this area during the 60s and 70s, and what I remember from "back in the day" to what I…read moresaw in 2025, well, it's a world of difference. Not as many homes were lit up in 2025, whereas ALL homes were not only lit up but super decorated back then. Plus, I noticed a fair amount of homes either have walls or shrubs blocking the street views, and it just wasn't amazing as I recall from my youth. There were a few really cool homes, but only a few. There was one that I REALLY liked, but I couldn't capture a good picture of it, but that's on me. The rest were just okay.

At first we walked through the neighborhood of Candy Cane Lane and took in all the holiday charm…read moresome houses offered!! Some were decked out in their own unique way--some super extravagant with lights and themed displays, while others keep it simple and sweet, or some don't do anything at all. For a while, the streets give off cozy holiday vibes as you stroll through, though the experience can get a little tricky since there are so many cars passing by with their headlights and bright lights shining right in your face. One house went way above and beyond by setting up a hot chocolate stand and even offering to take photos of families on their sleigh display out in their front yard. How cool is that! Another house had a history display about the history of Candy Cane Lane (dating back to 1951!), which was super eye-opening and made me appreciate the tradition even more. It's incredible that so many homes still participate in it despite all the challenges--busy traffic, LA County, trash, and even pop-up illegal vendors (you see several set up shop). However, you can feel a sense of community here. I especially can't help but applaud the efforts of the homes that take the time to bring this tradition to life. That said, I think this is only really worth it if you're in the area or passing by. If you're more than 30 minutes away, it will be underwhelming because not every house is fully decorated. Either way, my girlfriend and I were thrilled to have a quick holiday experience on a weekday night. We also brought our dog along and other dogs were also walking around too. Once it got darker in certain areas of the street, we decided to wrap it up and head out. Still, it was a lovely experience, and if you have 30 mins to spare, I'd definitely recommend checking it out even for a drive with Christmas music blasting!

How many hundreds of times have I driven by the Tarzana Community & Cultural Center? It has been…read moremany years, way back to the time there was a pottery store on the property. I finally had a chance to visit for a Tarzana Music Night last week. What a fun event! Because the weather was being forecasted to be cool with the potential of rain, the event was held indoors. Things were comfortable, but we were in close quarters with the other attendees. The sound was great and the performances were a lot of fun. I was primarily there to see a good friend perform, but I also had the chance to see some other talented musicians. I think each one was a singer songwriter, and I enjoyed each performance. Each one of the people that was working at the venue, which I imagine may have been on a volunteer basis, was friendly and a lot of fun. Normally the music nights are held outdoors, and I can imagine that most of the year, it is a lot of fun being in the open air.

What a cool place I never knew was here! Check out their events on their website! If you write them…read morethey will write you back too. They have a small outdoor stage with string lights hanging beautifully all around, a few picnic tables and fold out chairs for when there's an event to watch. When the chairs aren't there I imagine thats what they use for the outdoor dance floor under the stars, too! A few people brought their dogs on leash. I saw a few people brought in their own food, chilled out and ate while they watched the live band. They do have a very small amount of drinks, chips, and cookies for sale at a stand but thats it so if you don't want junk food def bring what you do want. They do have an indoor bathroom. PARKING - Def uber/LYFT to them. There are only a few spots in the back you can get to from the side street (not from Ventura blvd) and thats it! So do yourself a favor and get a ride. Lyft must know about this place because the driver knew exactly where to meet us in the back when we booked our return. For us it was a calm but fun summer evening hang outside! I don't know what its like without a band playing but hope I get a chance to check that out too.