Lamorinda Cool
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By Heather Brittany
Bore-aga, Bore-inda, Laughy-ette. As a teen I couldn’t wait to leave and live somewhere oozing “cool and fun”. It baffled me that sleepy Moraga boasted a prestigious college, because, in my teenage opinion, why in the world would a person who was finally free of parental supervision actually choose to live where there was nothing to do?

After high school graduation, I went to a university in the sunny stretches of San Diego. Brilliant beaches, palm trees, active outdoor lifestyle, classy clubs, and non-stop fun.

San Diego was a blast. It also has crime, crowded freeways, and noise.

With my wild ways worn, Moraga is the place I will always call home. As a quarter-lifer, this past year I realized Lamorinda is really hip. How did Lamorinda get so cool?

Let’s count the ways.
  • Farmer’s Markets: Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda accommodate weekly farmer’s markets offering residents fresh and organic goods. Going green is the new black of California. Organic food is healthier, tastier, and, well, just plain chic.
  • Wineries: The Moraga hills are host to viticulture paradise. Captain Winery and Parkmon Winery proffer delicious vintages, wine tastings, and tours for those over 21. Indulge in a staycation. Tour local vineyards.
  • Festivals and Parades: Lafayette presents a Wine and Food Festival, Moraga boasts the Pear Festival and Moraga Faire, Orinda enjoys a good ole’ fashioned 4th of July parade. Artists, musicians, bakers, non-profits, and crafts of every variety participate in these and more throughout the year.
  • Music in the Park: As a kid I thought the summer picnics in the parks were fabulous. As a teen they were boring, and, as a young adult, they’re awesome. Live bands, barbecues, bocce ball, family fun for all ages. Grab a basket, your honey, and enjoy a picnic dinner dancing under the stars.
  • Skate Park: Moraga wins the cool award for building this place where kids can shred some rail.
  • The Lafayette Reservoir and San Pablo Dam: Two beautiful lakes right in our neighborhood for fishing, rowing, bird watching, walking, and gorgeous views.
  • Community Centers: Lamorinda offers crazy cool classes. I took a sushi class at the Moraga Hacienda, dance from Orinda, crafts in Lafayette. Today, I am the life of the party when entertaining friends.
  • Theaters: View new releases, indies, and foreign films at the Orinda Theater and New Rheem Theatre or catch a live performance at Town Hall in Lafayette. In addition our high schools put on first rate theatrical productions.
  • Higher Education: St. Mary’s College in Moraga provides incredible programs, exhibits, lectures, performances and more.
  • Family and friends: They live here and they love you!

Lamorinda is safe, quiet, and rural. We have cows that graze on our hills and the air smells fresh. Fantastic restaurants, great boutique shops, golf, tennis, and spectacular hiking trails add to the mix. Next time you think there is nothing to do, check out a winery, go to a show, bike to the reservoir, or become foodie. Visit Chamber of Commerce web sites for the scoop on what’s hot.

There are no boring places, just boring people. Get out there, be cool, and have a blast! There is no place like home!

Heather Brittany is a founding Board Member of the local literacy charity, Be the Star You Are!®. In her mid twenties, she is a health care professional, radio personality, and creator of Karmony Kollections.™. www.HeatherBrittany.com

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