About Calabasas
Calabasas means squash in Spanish but there is nothing squashed about this city in the San Fernando Valley though. Locals believe it earned its name because of the wild squash, including pumpkins and gourds that once grew in the area. These weren’t exactly wild though. Legend has it that a farmer was taking a load of squash up the steep road, headed towards Los Angeles in 1824. His load spilled, and the next year, squash plants lined the roadside.
The city is home to over 23,000 people and was an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County until 1991. It is 31 miles from Calabasas to downtown Los Angeles, and the backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains makes it a beautiful place to be, with plenty of residential neighborhoods.
Filming Options in Calabasas
Filming in Calabasas is popular because it gets your project out of Los Angeles but is close enough to make it easy for everyone involved. The city has a strong residential feel and scenic beauty that appeal to film projects, as well as a finely tuned group of companies ready and willing to support any project.
- Catering
Catering can help you start the day on the right foot, recharge a flagging crew, or bring a peaceful end to a busy day. Whatever the purpose, the catering companies are ready to work with your Calabasas filming project.
- Furniture Rentals
Even though Calabasas is close to Los Angeles, the idea of bringing all your equipment out to the location is depressing. Furniture rental companies in Calabasas can help by providing the furniture you need and taking care of delivery, set-up, and clean-up. Other rental companies are available to fulfill equipment needs for things like cameras and audio equipment.
- Transportation
It takes a savvy driver to navigate Los Angeles County traffic, and most of us will admit that we’re not as proficient as we could be. Enter private transportation companies. We rely on them to get us where we need to be and it also frees up the driving time for us to work on our higher-value projects.
Filming Companies in Calabasas
The filming companies in Calabasas have decades of experience serving the industry behind them. The “been there, done that” experience level is tempered by a relentlessly fresh perspective that brings the best they have to every project.
- Lovi’s Delicatessen
This is not your ordinary deli. Lovi’s Delicatessen is a restaurant, bakery, and bar. It’s also simply delicious. They blend traditional and modern in a delightful menu sure to make you a repeat customer. The catering menu features breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert options.
- Calabasas Party Rentals
It’s more than just a party rental with Calabasas Party Rentals. The farmhouse-style tables, oakwood chairs, and other inventory were made for camera close-ups. They believe in superior quality party rentals, and they can also help with flooring and entertainment equipment.
- Calabasas Limo Service
If you’re traveling, it might as well be in style. Calabasas Limo Service is open 24 hours a day and offers expert services. You’ll feel like a rock star traveling in one of their luxury limousines.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Calabasas
There are pros and cons of filming in Calabasas just like there are in any other location you choose. So, review the advantages and disadvantages and then make your final decision.
Advantages
- The Views
California is known for its natural beauty and Calabasas is no different. The Santa Monica Mountains offer a stunning backdrop and a recreational escape. Architecture within the city is just as beautiful as the natural wonders surrounding the location.
- Safety
Calabasas is a very safe city with a suburban, community feel that residents love. The low crime along with a variety of restaurants and parks make it a welcoming location.
- Climate
The California climate is a perennial advantage and Calabasas offers the same weather advantages as its neighbors throughout Los Angeles County. You’ll enjoy the sunshine, blue skies, and mild weather during your filming project.
Disadvantages
- High rollers
Calabasas is one of the richest cities in California, it’s even wealthier than Beverly Hills. It’s an expensive place to live, and also an expensive place to work. Increase your budget a little to account for the extra expense if you choose this city.
- The Crowds
The population of Calabasas isn’t overly large, but it does welcome visitors and suffers through the related challenges that the overall population of Los Angeles County presents.
- Major Weather Events
The weather is fantastic in Calabasas, most of the time. But when it’s not, major weather events can be a major problem. Wildfires, flooding, and mudslides are problems throughout Los Angeles County.
Famous Locations in Calabasas
- Leonis Adobe
The Leonis Adobe is one of the oldest buildings in the county. It was the home of Miguel Leonis in the 1800s and then fell into disrepair after family disputes following his death. Today it is a museum, a place to see what the west was like in the 1800s and enjoy a picnic along Calabasas Creek.
- Pumpkin Festival
The Pumpkin Festival is hosted each October by the Chamber of Commerce in honor of the city’s squash namesake. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year and is held in Juan Bautista de Anza Park, which also offers sports facilities, a playground, and picnic areas.
- Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park was a filming location for 20th Century Fox before it was acquired by the state in 1976 as a park. M*A*S*H and Planet of the Apes were both filmed here. Today, the trails, creek, fishing, and bird watching, among other opportunities, attract visitors to the area. It’s the perfect place to recharge and enjoy nature.
