Mother’s Day is coming up (May 13; saved you the Google) and if you’re lucky enough to have your momma around L.A. on that day, you’re probably thinking about how to celebrate. You could definitely take her out to brunch. Many mothers and people in general do enjoy brunch. But, contrary to what you my have been told, it is not the only thing you can do to thank the person who gave you life for all she has done to make you the person you have become. So, here are some suggestions for things you can do with your mom this week including, if you absolutely insist, eating brunch.
Chow Down at Pizza Fest
Your mom probably loves pizza. We feel confident in saying this because your mom is a human being and most human beings love pizza. At this Mother’s Day afternoon event, presented in conjunction with the L.A. Times Food Bowl, dozens of the best pizza-makers from L.A. and beyond will set up shop in one place. When you’re not comparing slices, there are workshops and panels on all things pizza-related.
Hollywood Palladium, 6215 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood; May 13, noon.
Sing Along to Some Show Tunes
All her favorite Broadway show tunes collide in a single cabaret show at Rockwell Table & Stage. Assembled by musical director Brad Ellis—the man behind Glee, Forbidden Broadway, and other musical theater geek-fests—she’ll get to enjoy all the hits, and a few laughs, too.
“An Evening of Classic Broadway,” Rockwell Table & Stage, 1714 N. Vermont Ave., Los Feliz; May 13, 6 p.m.
Stop and Smell the Roses on a Garden Stroll
The roses are in full bloom at Descanso Garden, making Mother’s Day a perfect time to visit. At 11 a.m., an expert docent leads a guided walk (included for free with admission), so someone else can answer all your mom’s random questions for an hour.
Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge
Go on a Sippin’ Safari
Malibu Wines has everything you need for a mom day. There’s wine, first of all, but also tables you can reserve for a BYO picnic, grounds to explore, a flower crown pop-up, and even a friendly giraffe. If you prefer a less DIY meal, tickets are available for an elegant pop-up dinner in the winery’s gardens on Saturday night.
Malibu Wines, 31740 Mulholland Hwy., Malibu
Dance to Latin Jazz at the Autry
The award-winning Afro-Latin Ensemble from Cal State L.A. will be in the house at the Autry museum for a night of live music, dancing, and fun. If your mom is the type to bust out a salsa move, she’ll be in good company—just make a reservation in advance, as space will be limited.
The Autry Museum in Griffith Park, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park; May 13, 7 p.m.
Do a Craft Project Together
Makers Mess is offering a fun, low-key crafting session at their Silver Lake studio. While enjoying provided pastries and mimosas, you’ll learn the basics of hand-lettering calligraphy, and use those new skills to make a label for a pot of DIY salt scrub. A duo ticket for you both will run $135 or individual tickets are available for $75.
Makers Mess, 602 N. Hoover, Silver Lake; May 13, 11 a.m.
Help a New Mom Get Her Groove Back
Maybe you have a mom in your life who isn’t your mom, but she’s a friend, sister, or partner, and you want to do something special together this Mother’s Day. Choreographer Janet Langer (who has worked with none other than Jennifer Lopez) has developed a special dance routine designed for new moms looking to get their bodies moving again, and offers private classes for up to six participants.
Venue and schedule to be determined upon booking.
Watch Wonder Woman with Your Wonder Woman
Celebrate woman power with this special screening of the 2017 blockbuster Wonder Woman. Maybe you missed it during the original release, or maybe you just want an activity where you’ll be with your mom for a couple hours, but don’t have to make conversation the whole time.
American Cinematheque at the Aero Theater, 1328 Montana Ave., Santa Monica
Fine, Get Some Dang Brunch Already
You probably already have your favorite places, but you’re looking for something a little more mom-friendly. We hear you, and we’ve got some suggestions that fit the bill. CAST Restaurant at the Viceroy Santa Monica offers an elegant garden-party feel; Otium is offering a special buffet that is way nicer than what “buffet” might suggest; Beauty & Essex has more than enough panache to please the poshest mom; and the Bazaar by José Andrés is hosting its first-ever Mother’s Day brunch with all kinds of decadent, Spanish-inspired everything.
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