I confess I’m kind of nuts for succulents and cacti so I can’t wait to attend this year’s “Los Angeles Cactus and Succulent Society Plant Sale”. “TARFEST” is back at and it’s FREE! With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Malibu mountains on the other, Pepperdine University honors the victims of 9/11 in its own stunning way.  Downton Abbey fever is hitting LA with the opening of the highly anticipated film (read The Three Tomatoes review here) and two events, “Downton Abbey Grand Tea” and “The Downton Abbey Experience,” that Tomato fans should absolutely adore attending.

Sept 14.  LA Cactus and Succulent Society Plant Sale

For all you succulent and cacti loving Tomatoes like me out there, “The Los Angeles Cactus and Succulent Society Plant Sale” is simply mind blowing.  With over two dozen vendors selling unusual and rare cactus and succulents, as well as some fantastic potters it is not to be missed. And it’s free to attend and park Tomatoes!

Some of the vendors are private growers who don’t sell at the large cactus & succulent shows and will be bringing special plants that aren’t commonly available. I’m always going to sing the praises of succulents and cacti because they are beautiful in their own way, easy to care for in SoCal and here comes the big one… they are drought tolerant.  So, it is no surprise I’m urging Tomatoes to check out The Annual Los Angeles Cactus and Succulent Society Plant Sale and shop all the unique plants for sale.  Handmade ceramic pots, decorative rocks, garden related items will be available for purchase with the proceeds helping to grow and maintain the public cactus garden at the Sepulveda Garden Center. I love spending money to help a public garden grow.

Sept 14. TARFEST

I know what you are thinking Tomatoes… “Why on earth would I be interested in a…TARFEST?” Well, it’s hip gals, highly celebrated and it takes place at the beloved and beautiful grounds of the “LaBrea Tar Pits & Museum.” It’s a free music and art festival for all ages from today’s most interesting independent artists. I wouldn’t steer you wrong Tomatoes.

The event is again curated by the non-profit arts organization LAUNCH LA, all for the purpose of sharing art in all its forms with the entire Los Angeles Community.  TARFEST features Live Music, Dancers, DJ’s, Local Museums and Businesses, Food Trucks, Kids Art-making , Live Painting, Dance, Biergarten & Wine Bar and cultural activities. Sounds like a ton of fun Tomatoes! And remember, it’s free!

This week’s episode of The Three Tomatoes Happy Hour features Jeanne Kelly, an amazing Tomato who is changing lives through singing. A former opera singer, teacher, conductor and music administrator, she created a program called Encore Creativity for Older Adults, where men and women over 55 have the opportunity to let their voices go as they sing and perform. Listen in here or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

Till Sept 25^th.  Waves of Flags

Pepperdine University’s stunning memorial, “Waves of Flags” honors the victims of the 9/11 attack again this year Tomatoes. Having seen it, I can tell you ladies that there is truly no way to adequately describe it’s powerful, breathtaking and heartbreaking beauty.  You must see it for yourself. Bravo Pepperdine!

The “Waves of Flags” installation features a display of a total of 2,977 full-size flags—2,887 American flags for each American life lost and 90 various international flags representing the home countries of those from abroad who died in the attacks. In addition to the Waves of Flags installation, the University is the permanent home of Heroes Garden, a public space, open all year round, for visitors to reflect and honor all those who live heroic lives. Do yourself a favor gals and head to Pepperdine for this amazing sight.

Sept 19 – Sept 22.  Downton Abbey Experience

OMG! Be still my Lady Deborah heart. Stop what you are doing Tomatoes because I’ve got breathtaking news for Downton Abbey fans. In celebration of the opening, The ArcLight Hollywood is exclusively hosting “The Downton Abbey Experience” which I saw when it was in NYC, and brings Downtown Abby to life for guests to delight in, prior to their screenings of the Downton Abbey film.  How absolutely dreamy Tomatoes.

ArcLight Hollywood goes beyond the four walls of the movie theatre and transforms their Balcony Bar into a multi-room immersive and inspired experience with themed décor, film costumes, film inspired drinks, staff in period outfits and character actors for just the opening weekend.  So, I would order your handmaidens to rush in haste to purchase tickets dear Ladies. In addition to the film itself, the ticket package includes two curated cocktails, a selection of sweets & savories, commemorative keepsake and popcorn during the film. How loverly!

Sept 15. Grand Tea Experience

If one experience does not satisfy your Downton Abbey cravings, what is a Lady to do?  Well, The Amazon Treasure Truck is here to deliver a marvelous experience on the lawn of The Grove with the “The Downton Abbey Grand High Tea Experience”. Oh my!  And I never tire of hearing the word “Free”. And, yes, my dears, it’s yours for Free.

Fancy a stroll through the early 20th century English Countryside with a Downton Abbey infused garden party? Look no further than the lawn at The Grove which will be transformed into all that reflects our favorite Manor House. Downton Abbey clad staff and actors will be on hand while guests indulge in delish tea-time scones, biscuits, elegant tea and sandwiches and enjoy music through-out the day. It’s all a wonderful addition to seeing the Downton Abbey film which a little birdie told me is “Perfect”.