Holiday Deals, Events and Activities Abound at Mount Snow, Vermont

The Green Mountains of southern Vermont provide the quintessential setting for a holiday experience, and Mount Snow has the deals to make it affordable along with a host of events and activities to make it fun for the whole family.

$59 Last Minute Ski and Stay
Skiers and riders can get a night of lodging and a day of skiing for less than a lift ticket starting the evening of Sunday, December 16 through Thursday, December 20. Based on double occupancy at Snow Lake Lodge, no minimum night stay.

Holiday Jumpstart Package
Designed to provide an affordable getaway before the actual holiday week, the Holiday Jumpstart Package is available December 19 -25. Book two nights lodging and two days of skiing and get the third night and day free. The package starts at $227 per person.

Great Holiday Getaway Package
Available December 24 through January 1, the Great Holiday Getaway Package offers good value during a timeframe that most resorts typically fetch top-dollar. Stay at Snow Lake Lodge, conveniently located on Mount Snow property just a short shuttle ride to the slopes. Ski and stay rates start at $139 per person, per night.

Other Ways to Save
Purchase lift tickets at least seven days in advance online and save 10% on the cost. Reserve equipment rentals in advance online and save 5%.

The Fan Fare Card provides discounts on lift tickets every visit to the ticket window. The card costs $79, and the cardholder gets 50% off midweek non-holiday, 25% off weekend non-holiday and 10% off holiday lift tickets.

Holiday Week Activities
There will be a number of free family-friendly activities going on during the day starting December 22 and 23, then picking back up December 26 through January 1 including arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, s’mores, movies, face painting and more.

Friday, December 28 is the Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Extravaganza starting with Mount Snow’s ski and snowboard pros descending the Canyon trail in a brilliant torchlight glow followed by a spectacular fireworks display. All Main Base Area retail outlets will be open late along with 1900’ Burger, Cuzzins Bar and Grill and Station Tap Room.

Monday, December 31 features the first of three Grommet Jam events of the season. This educational and fun event for young freestylers age 12 and under starts with 90 minutes of terrain park instruction from Mount Snow’s ski and snowboard coaches in the Grommet Park at Carinthia, followed by a friendly competition with winners going home with gear from event sponsors. Registration is $40 per participant and the field of 70 fills up fast; advance registration is available at online.

New Years Eve
The Snow Barn New Year’s Eve Party features a live performance from one of Mount Snow’s favorites, The Jeff Tuohy Band. The 21+ party will also have light appetizers and a champagne toast at midnight. Admission is $25.

New Years Eve Family Dinner and Grand Dance Party at the Grand Summit Resort Hotel will start out with a bunch of family-friendly fun including a magician, live music from Wyld Nights, a magician, party favors and buffet dinner. There will be an early champagne toast at 9:45 p.m. for folks that want to call it a night early, then after 10 p.m. a new seating will take place with a buffet dinner and the Grand Dance Party begins with DJ Rafael. Adult admission is $70, kids age 5-12 are $35.

Ski and Snowboard School
The Mount Snow Ski and Snowboard School is still taking reservations for the popular holiday week timeframe for kids lessons, age 4-14 years old as well as the new Burton Riglet program for young riders age 3-6. Make reservations online at http://www.mountsnow.com/learn-to-ski-ride or call toll free, 800.889.4411.

To make reservations for the holiday week, call toll free, 800.245.7669 or to book online, visit www.mountsnow.com.

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Busch Gardens Williamsburg Hosts Christmas Town for Holidays

Christmas Town: A Busch Gardens Celebration is an all-new thematic area at the Williamsburg, Virginia themepark, that pays homage to a simpler time when life seemed less hectic.

Holiday Hills is the latest creation at Busch Gardens’ annual Christmas event, Christmas Town: A Busch Gardens Celebration,  and celebrates mid-20^th-century Christmas traditions complete with tin toys, miles of garland and painted Christmas lights.

Transforming the 100-acre park into a Christmas wonderland takes many people and many hours. Holiday Hills alone requires a team of nearly 100 people to create. Installers hang more than one million Christmas lights and span the area with more garland than some towns hang on Main Street. Holiday Hills is in the park’s Festa Italia area. It expands the park’s footprint and adds additional ride and dining opportunities along with the over-the-top thematic elements that have become a Christmas Town tradition.

Vice President of Entertainment Scott Gasparich said the inspiration behind the new area comes from nostalgic Americana Christmas traditions.

“There is nothing stronger than families sharing, caring and having fun together during the holidays. This theme is celebrated in Holiday Hills,” Gasparich said of his thought process behind the new area.

“Holiday Hills heralds back to simpler times, but also incorporates larger-than-life themes, colors, shapes and materials. The contrast of simple and bold provides a perfect theme that complements the rest of the park, but has the visual power to stand on its own.”

Christmas Town continues on select days, through December 31, 2012. For more information, including an operating schedule, visit: www.ChristmasTown.com.

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Family Travel Experts offer list of 52 Best of America’s Christmas Lights and Holiday Festivals

The popular family travel sites TravelingMom.com (created by Kim Orlando), TakingTheKids.com (created by Eileen Ogintz) and FamilyTravelForum.com (created by Kyle McCarthy) present 52 Holiday Light Delights — a Holiday E-Zine filled with suggestions for catching the Holiday Spirit and seeing some of the best Christmas light displays in the country.

Holiday festivals are bigger, better, and starting earlier than ever — by Thanksgiving weekend in many places. And you don’t only need to be in big cities to transform even the most Bah Humbug among us into wide-eyed participants in the Holiday Season.

Want to know the absolute best places to take the kids and grandkids to see the most decked out balls of holly this year?

The popular family travel sites TravelingMom.com (created by Kim Orlando), TakingTheKids.com (created by Eileen Ogintz) and FamilyTravelForum.com (created by Kyle McCarthy) present 52 Holiday Light Delights — a Holiday E-Zine filled with suggestions for catching the Holiday Spirit and seeing some of the best Christmas light displays in the country.

Readers can flip through this Holiday E-Zine on a smartphone or tablet and begin planning immediately. The light shows and festivities range from Niagara Falls, New York to San Diego, California, and are organized by region — Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, South and West — so you can turn even a staycation into a glittering night out.

Among the 52 very best Christmas Lights and Holiday Festivals are:

#9. Syracuse’s Lights on the Lake, a two-mile drive through one of the largest and most colorful light shows in the Northeast;

#15. Winterfest in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, with five million holiday lights and huge displays;

#44. Sedona, Arizona’s Red Rock Fantasy, a festival of nearly one million lights providing a man-made marvel set against the majestic beauty of the Arizona mountainscape; and

#52. San Diego’s Garden of Lights, a dazzling winter wonderland with over 100,000 sparkling lights illuminating the Garden for a magical holiday experience.

Leading national family travel expert Eileen Ogintz, author of the syndicated column TakingtheKids, and her team of experts researched and wrote the E-Zine. “The hard part was limiting ourselves to only 52 locations around the country. One thing we learned – communities all over the U.S. go all out for the Holidays!” said Cindy Richards, editor of Traveling Mom.

The Holiday Light Delights E-Zine is sponsored by Flight Center USA, and the company’s websites for travel by air (www.FlightCenter.com), land (www.HotCaribbeanDeals.com), and sea (www.DiscountCruises.com) offer the guaranteed best service and lowest prices on flights, Caribbean vacations and Holiday and year-round cruising.

With most Holiday exhibits flicking the “on” switch in November and closing in late January, the Holiday Season is a great time to see the sights and the lights.
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Historic Lake Quinault Lodge offering Holiday Celebrations, Winter Specials

Historic Lake Quinault Lodge is offering holiday getaways with rates as low as $101.50 a night and celebrations for Christmas.

“The holidays are a time to enjoy the people you love, not to worry about details,” says general manager Hiedi Olson, “Lake Quinault Lodge’s expansive dining room, cozy guest rooms and warm lobby with a roaring fire can host any size party while still feeling like home. And just like home, we’ll be watching holiday movies but on our 14-foot projection screen.”

Frequently covered by a blanket of soft snow, Lake Quinault Lodge is the ideal winter retreat for Western Washington, whether for a holiday getaway, or for an escape from the day-to-day grind. For rates and reservations visit www.OlympicNationalParks.com and use the promo code LQFALL13 or call 888-896-3818. To stay up-to-date of all events and activities, like us on Facebook.

Upcoming events include:

Culinary & Wine Weekend

When: Friday Nov. 30 – Sunday Dec. 2
What: Culinary weekend featuring Maryhill Winery, 2009 Washington Winery of the Year. Includes cooking demonstrations, recipe cards, a four course dinner with wine pairings and two nights lodging
Price: Package starts at $499 per person. Promo code: CULINARY

Christmas Dinner:

When: Tuesday Dec. 25, 2-7p.m.
What: Christmas dinner served in the Roosevelt Dining Room including the traditional holiday dishes of ham and pecan sweet potatoes as well as local favorites such as bakes salmon and marrionberry cobbler.
Price: Three options priced between $26-$37 for adults, $12-$15 for children
Reservations required, call (360) 288-2900

New Year’s Eve Ball:

When: Monday, Dec.31, 2012
What: The evening includes dancing, party favors, light appetizers and a champagne toast at midnight. It is a blast from the past – we will be ringing in the New Year in good old 1920s fashion, so dress accordingly. Guest can enjoy a night stay on the package listed here or just come for the party.
Price: $30 for single admission, $50 per couple. Rooms start at $209 a night

Lake Quinault Lodge has long been a gathering place for Pacific Northwest vacationers. The lakeside lodge is located in the heart of one of only three temperate rainforests in the world and offers hiking, biking, fishing, boat rentals and tours of the lake and rainforest. Lake Quinault Lodge is also home to the Roosevelt Dining Hall, where Franklin D. Roosevelt dined during a trip that would later result in Olympic being named a national park.

Located on the Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park is 922,651 acres of preserved coastal, mountain and rainforest terrain. It is the fifth most visited national park in the United States, drawing 3.3 million visitors in 2010 and is located near Seattle, Wash., Vancouver British Columbia, and other Northwestern population centers. Declared a national park in 1938, the region is also a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Preserve and 95 percent is declared wilderness, a further protection above national park status.

ARAMARK Parks and Destinations, a division of ARAMARK, delivers authentic and memorable experiences at national and state parks, national forests, specialty hotels, museums and other tourist destinations throughout the United States. In partnership with its clients, ARAMARK Parks and Destinations seek to enhance the guest experience by offering industry-leading hospitality, environmental stewardship, recreational and interpretive programs. For more information on ARAMARK Parks and Destinations and its properties visit www.aramarkparksanddestinations.com. For up-to-the-minute news and information on this, and other ARAMARK Parks and Destinations locations follow on Twitter @ARAMARKParks.

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Spend Your Holidays at Sea with Cunard Line: Space Available on Select Holiday Voyages

Select seven- to 26-day December voyages to stunning destinations around the globe aboard Cunard ships still have availability.

Whether you and your family choose to make a historic Transatlantic Crossing, or explore the wonders of the Canary Islands, spending the holidays aboard a Cunard ocean liner is an unmatched luxury cruise vacation experience. And, select seven- to 26-day December voyages to stunning destinations around the globe still have availability.

During the winter holidays, Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth are beautifully decorated with elegant and traditional Christmas decorations. Festive greenery and glittering lights create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting holiday memories.

Holiday cruises with availability include:

Queen Mary 2

Atlantic Isles Discovery (11 days) – 4 December roundtrip from Southampton; fares from $1,399

Grand Caribbean Fiesta (26 days) – 15 December roundtrip from Southampton; fares from $5,090

Westbound Transatlantic Crossing (7 days) – 15 December from Southampton to New York; fares from $649

Caribbean Fiesta (12 days) – 22 December roundtrip from New York; fares from $2,295
Queen Victoria

Canary Islands Celebration (16 days) – 20 December roundtrip from Southampton; fares from $4,395

Northern Adventure (7 days) – 13 December roundtrip from Southampton; fares from $999
Queen Elizabeth

Iberian Serenade (10 days) – 9 December roundtrip from Southampton; fares from $1,099

Mediterranean Celebration (18 days) – 19 December roundtrip from Southampton; fares from $2,699
Fares are per person, based on double occupancy.

For more information about Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, or Queen Elizabeth, or to book a voyage, consult your travel agent, call Cunard toll-free 1-800-728-6273 or visit http://www.cunard.com.

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Oaklands Christmas Candlelight Tour Features Historic Homes in Historic Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Interpreters in period attire guide you through the history of this gracious mansion. At its peak, Oaklands was the center of a 1,500 acre plantation and one of the most elegant homes in Middle Tennessee © 2012 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Usher in the holiday season with an enchanting tour of historic homes and landmarks. The annual Oaklands Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes is slated for December 1, 2012 from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The tour, sponsored by Oaklands Association will feature beautiful and historic private homes along Cherry Lane and East Main Street and the graceful Oaklands Historic House Museum.

The cornerstone of the tour is the grand Oaklands Historic House Museum. Interpreters in period attire will guide you through the history of this gracious mansion. At its peak, Oaklands was the center of a 1,500 acre plantation and one of the most elegant homes in Middle Tennessee. Since that time, Oaklands has seen dramatic changes. Following the Civil War, it deteriorated from a majestic mansion to virtual ruins and, in the 1950′s, its very existence was threatened. The mansion was brought back from the brink of destruction and saved from the wrecking ball when a group of concerned ladies created Oaklands Association in 1959. Since that time, the Association has worked tirelessly to restore Oaklands to its original splendor and preserve its unique history.

Set in the historic district of Murfreesboro, stops along the holiday tour include the following historic buildings:

• · Oaklands Historic House Museum, 900 North Maney Avenue,
• · Mary Catherine & David Sevier, 138 Cherry Lane,
• · Tammie & Greg Waldron, 148 Cherry Lane,
• · Susan & Phil Loyd, 152 Cherry Lane,
• · Charlene & Ron Taylor, 816 East Main Street,
• · Pat & Matt Ward, 1019 East Main Street,
• · Marietta & Jim Bishop, 1103 East Main Street

Today, local residents and visitors alike enjoy the mansion that has been lovingly restored and brought back to its former glory. The proceeds of the Candlelight Tour of Homes go toward the care and preservation of this historic treasure. Admission is $10.00 per person 21 years and older, students $8 .00, ages 6-12, $5.00, ages 5 and under are free. Tickets may be purchased at any home on the tour and at Oaklands Historic House Museum. Oaklands Association is a non-profit educational organization. For more information on becoming a member or a volunteer, call (615) 893-0022 or email: info@oaklandsmuseum.org.

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Wassail Weekend Kicks Off A Flurry of Holiday Celebrations at Woodstock Inn & Resort

Woodstock Inn resort offers an idyllic experience during the Christmas season with wreathes and decorations adorning the property

The Woodstock Inn & Resort is offering festive, value-added packages for visitors to enjoy another enchanting holiday season in Woodstock, VT. Winter events officially begin with Wassail Weekend, December 7 – 9, 2012, named one of Vermont’s top 10 winter events by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce.

Wassail Weekend highlights include a holiday crafts fair, Yule Log and memory tree lighting and a walking house tour of six notable Woodstock historic homes that welcome visitors inside for rare peek of seasonal décor. In the evenings, the Campbell Brothers gospel group takes the stage at Town Hall, while local actors perform a Christmas Vaudeville show at the Yoh Theater. The main attraction is Saturday’s town-wide parade with more than fifty horses and riders dressed in holiday attire and costumes from the early 19^th century. Additionally, throughout the weekend Billings Farm & Museum offers hands-on experiences such as making historic Christmas ornaments, candle dipping and horse-drawn sleigh or wagon rides, weather permitting.

The resort’s Wassail Weekend Package is available December 7 – 9, 2012 starting at $920 per couple for the weekend. The stay includes:
-Two Nights Luxury Accommodations
-Admissions to Campbell Brothers at The Town Hall on Friday
-Wassail Feast Dinner at The Woodstock Inn on Saturday evening
-Tickets to Christmas Vaudeville at The Yoh Theater on Saturday night
-Holiday Homes Tour on Saturday

A two-night minimum stay is required, rate does not include Vermont states taxes and per day resort fee. To book the special package, visit www.woodstockinn.com or call (888)-481-8802.

Pre-Holiday B&B Package, New Year’s Gala

Also, the Woodstock Inn & Resort is offering a pre-holiday B&B Package for guest to relax and rejuvenate before the holidays with rates starting at $179 per night, a savings over 30%.

The special rate is valid now thru December 20, 2012. Rates start at $179 on weekdays, and $199 on weekends. The package includes luxurious accommodations for one night (but you can add nights); and hearty Vermont breakfast for two (for reservations, call 888-329-4919 or http://www.woodstockinn.com/ )

To close out the year, Woodstock Inn & Resort will host a New Year’s Eve gala that features a five course gourmet dinner with dishes made from locally sourced produce, cheeses and meats, a midnight champagne toast and dancing with music by the High Rollers. Gala tickets are $99 per person, not including taxes and gratuity. (For reservations call 888-481-8802.)

Holiday Cheer

Woodstock Inn resort offers an idyllic experience during the Christmas season with wreathes and decorations adorning the property, a soaring tree and a roaring lobby fireplace. During Christmas week guests can choose from Alpine or Nordic skiing, rejuvenating in The Spa at the Woodstock Inn & Resort and picking up last minute holiday gifts on Main Street. Children will be occupied with daily activities in the game room, swimming in the indoor pool and more. The Inn will also be hosting a sumptuous Christmas Day dinner with all the traditional fixings.

Throughout the winter season Woodstock Inn & Resort provides guests with a number of dining and recreational options to enhance their stay. The Red Rooster, the resort’s award-winning fine dining restaurant emphasizes a menu using fresh, local ingredients sourced from the best purveyors in New England. Richardson’s Tavern offers a cozy old-world atmosphere with a full bar and live music. Resort activities include Suicide Six, a 23 trail mountain, the Nordic Center which offers more than 60-kilometers of cross country skiing and a 41,000 square foot Racquet & Fitness Club, which includes indoor tennis courts, indoor racquetball courts, a 30-by-60 foot indoor lap pool, a whirlpool, workout equipment and a steam room and a sauna. The 10,000 square-foot LEED-certified spa offers a nature-inspired ambiance and treatments including the signature winter selection, Deep Forest, which features a gentle exfoliation of the body and is followed by a massage.

Located in idyllic Woodstock, Vermont, the Woodstock Inn & Resort defines country sophistication in one of New England’s most charming and popular year-round vacation destinations. The 142-room, AAA Four Diamond Resort and member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, offers award-winning dining in three restaurants, ranked among the finest in New England. The Woodstock Inn & Resort is owned and operated by The Woodstock Foundation, Inc. Proceeds from Resort operations support The Woodstock Foundation and Billings Farm & Museum education and conservation programs.

For more information, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Woodstock-Inn-Resort, visit www.woodstockinn.com or call (888)-481-8802.

Family Holiday Jungle Safari Offered by The Lodge at Pico Bonito, Eco-Lodge in Honduras

Spot Vibrant Toucans, Sleek Jaguars, and Elusive Hummingbirds

Let your kids discover their inner explorer on an exciting and educational family adventure through the pristine Honduran rainforest this holiday season. For the first time ever, the highly-acclaimed Lodge at Pico Bonito, perched at the base of Pico Bonito National Park, will be offering a Family Holiday Jungle Safari complete with a guided-scavenger hunt that is sure to provide your children with jungle book thrills.

Uncover spellbinding rock formations, marvel at jaw-dropping waterfalls and catch glimpses of elusive jaguars, keel-billed toucans, vibrant contingas and endangered emerald hummingbirds on the ultimate bonding vacation.

From guided night hikes to exhilarating white water rafting, your children will revel in the natural wonders of the unexplored rainforest with the added excitement of an inspiring, learning competition.

Family Holiday Jungle Safari

From November 1, 2012 through January 5, 2013, The Lodge at Pico Bonito will offer the groundbreaking Family Holiday Jungle Safari – a six-day, five-night package and naturalist scavenger hunt with a grand prize the entire family can enjoy.

Highlights include:

• Scavenger Hunt – During daily hikes led by expert instructors, your entire family will learn about everything from the native birds and endangered species to flora and fauna and geological rock formations. Following the hikes, you will embark on a scavenger hunt with your “Pico Bonito Scavenger Hunt” booklet in hand – checking off various bird species, reptiles, flora and fauna that your guide confirms you spot.

At the completion of the offering period, The Lodge at Pico Bonito will award the family with the most confirmed sightings 20% off a stay at the property between April 1 and December 20, 2013.

• Family Picnic at the Unbelievable Falls –Savor sightings of pumas, jaguars, spider monkeys and over 420 species of birds on an educational trek culminating at a spectacular double-drop waterfall. Take a refreshing dip in the sites irresistible swimming hole before enjoying a family picnic at the base of the unforgettable natural wonder.

• Early Morning Trip to the Observation Tower – Awaken with the jungle and experience a cacophony of sounds as hundreds of exotic bird species herald the start of a new day. On your guided hike you will discover Pico Bonito’s secret spots that make the property a paradise for birders. The journey culminates in a trip to the property’s three multi-story observation towers where your family can take in the jungles astounding scenery from above.

• Night Hike to Spot Reptiles – Search for nocturnal reptiles and amphibians guided by flashlight and the experienced eyes of your guide on an excursion that is sure to bring your children’s adventure fantasies to life.

• Whitewater Rafting – Enjoy a day of family bonding as you paddle away on an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip down the Rio Cangrejal, a world-class whitewater destination.

Rates include two adults and one child and start from $1,069 for a standard cabin for the period of November 1 through December 20, 2012. From December 21 through January 5, 2012 rates start at $1,405 for a standard cabin. Each additional child is $560 for a standard cabin or $669 for a standard plus cabin. Package includes a full daily breakfast. Additional costs include taxes and gratuities. Cabins are subject to maximum occupancy restrictions. Holiday Season has a minimum stay requirement of five nights. The Lodge is accessible from major American gateway airports. For further info visit www.picobonito.com or call 888-428-0221.

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Chicago Rolls Celebrates Valentine’s Day Feb 10-19 With Sweet Deals, Special Events

Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just heading out of town  for a long weekend with the kids, Chicago offers a wonderful setting to celebrate the  Valentine’s Day holiday. From Friday, February 10 through Sunday, February 19, the city  offers more than a week of Cupid-inspired experiences, from special performances and dinner  dates, to outdoor fun and picturesque photo-ops.

Couples looking for a romantic rendezvous can steal away for a quiet moment with a stroll  through Millennium Park and its winter blooms in Lurie Garden or cozy up with a carriage  ride amidst the Magnificent Mile’s sparkling lights. Families will enjoy a lively getaway  with stops at Navy Pier for sky high views from the Ferris Wheel – or Lincoln Park Zoo for a  glimpse of lovebirds in their natural habitats.

With so many value-added hotel packages and dining deals to choose from, treat your loved  ones to an unforgettable Chicago experience this Valentine’s Day. For additional event and  attraction details, visit the city’s official tourism website www.ExploreChicago.org.
 
PERFORMANCES

Sex, Love & the Second City: A Romantic Dot Comedy presented by UP Comedy Club
Now through February 29
From legendary comedy theatre The Second City comes a play about relationships in the age of  social networking. There are plenty of fish in the sea, but can we all live in eHarmony? Or  are our lives too much of an open (Face)book? Find out more in this hilarious new show!

Valentine’s Weekend Engagement presented by River North Dance Chicago
February 10, 11 and 12
This annual Valentine’s Weekend Engagement will feature the U.S. debut of Mauro Astolfi,  Artistic Director of Italy’s Spellbound Dance Company. The showcase, presented at Millennium  Park’s Harris Theater, will combine athletic and emotive contemporary dance styles. Frank  Chaves joins forces with conductor/composer Josephine Lee, Artistic Director of the Chicago  Children’s Choir, who will compose an original piano suite for his World Premiere.

My Funny Valentine presented by E. Faye Butler
February 13
Valentine’s Day comes a day early to Millennium Park when the popular series, Cabaret with a  View returns to the climate-controlled stage at Jay Pritzker Pavilion with the acclaimed  theater actress and singer E. Faye Butler in “My Funny Valentine.”  The evening will include  a night of romance, laughter and song by one of Chicago’s favorite leading ladies and will  feature classics from the great American songbook. Butler will be joined by Jeremy Kahn on  piano and Eric Schneider on saxophone.
 
Symphony Center Presents Passion World
February 14
Kurt Elling, one of the most recognizable voices in contemporary jazz, returns for an  enchanting performance with Passion World, a journey through love songs from around the  world. This special Valentine’s Day concert also features famed jazz violinist Regina Carter  and innovative clarinetist and saxophonist Anat Cohen.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Love Songs and Lights (FREE)
Now through February 19
Enjoy the sights and lights of State Street and the sound of love songs when the Chicago  Loop Alliance presents “Love Song and Lights” as part of Lightscape, a multisensory  experience. Visitors are encouraged to submit love songs dedicated to their loved ones  through Twitter, text messaging or the Lightscape website. The winning song will be chosen  at random and will play with a romantic-themed colored light show.

Skating in the Sky – John Hancock Observatory
Now through April 8
Take in awe-inspiring views of the city and beyond while twirling on a surface made of  synthetic ice at the world’s highest skating rink on the 94th floor of the John Hancock  Observatory. Located 1,000 feet off the ground, the rink will be open for skating daily from  9am–11pm. Last skating ticket is sold at 10pm.

Odyssey Valentine’s Weekend Dining Cruises
February 10, 11, 12 and 14
Nothing is more magnificent than a Valentine’s Day Weekend celebration on the water aboard  Odyssey, Chicago’s most luxurious cruising vessel. Choose from dining options that include a  Weekend Dinner, Sunday Brunch or Sunday Dinner Buffet.

Luminous Field Lights Up Millennium Park (FREE)
February 10–20: Fridays & Saturdays 6-10pm, Sunday-Thursday 6-9pm
Come see Millennium Park transformed into a digital canvas of light and geometrical form  with its first-ever site-specific video and sound installation by the Chicago-based artistic  ensemble Luftwerk. Created specifically for Millennium Park, the installation will  illuminate Cloud Gate – known by many Chicagoans as “The Bean” – and its surrounding AT&T  Plaza with dramatic images and colors set to music composed by Owen Clayton Condon, of the  local avant-garde classical ensemble, Third Coast Percussion.

Winter Dance (FREE)
February 11: Dance lesson 5–6pm, open dancing 6–8pm
Enjoy dance lessons at this indoor dance party in an indoor heated tent before heading out  to see Luminous Field, the outdoor site-specific art installation by Luftwerk. Dancing is  preceded by a one-hour lesson led by professional instructors from the American Tango  Institute. Admission is free, food and beverages by Park Grill will be available for  purchase.

Spirit of Chicago Valentine’s Weekend Dinner Cruises
February 11 and 14
Chicagoans are invited to make a romantic memory aboard the vibrant and festive Spirit of  Chicago and treat loved ones to a bountiful buffet, engaging DJ entertainment, dancing and  strolls beneath the stars.  On the warm and cozy climate-controlled decks, this special day  will be one to remember. Dinners include a complimentary champagne toast and a single rose  per couple.

Wine & Wildlife: Animal Attractions – Lincoln Park Zoo
February 14
Those who are wild at heart can woo their loved ones at the zoo on Valentine’s Day. This  adults-only event will take place inside Regenstein African Journey, with champagne and  chocolates being served as participants get the inside scoop on the risqué side of animal  courtship—the wild lives of wildlife.

Polar Adventure Days – Northerly Island (FREE)
February 18
Bundle up and head out to this annual event that celebrates a love of nature. Experience the  outdoors through animals, crafts and live music. Dress warm, grab hot chocolate and watch as  ice blocks transform into sculptures. Get into the action by snowshoeing when weather  permits.
 
CLASSES

Valentine’s Day Cooking Class – Kendall College
February 10 and 12
Hosted by Kendall College, Valentine’s Dinner Date Night and Couple’s Brunch creates a  unique romantic experience for couples to share. Have fun creating a delicious meal with the  freshest seasonal ingredients and share the experience with your significant other.

Making “Whoopie” at The Ritz – deca RESTAURANT + BAR
February 11 and 15
The deca team will lead a hands-on cooking class instructing couples how to make the latest  “it” dish, whoopie pies, in a variety of flavors. In addition, guests will enjoy passed hors  d’oeuvres along with a glass of champagne before the class.

“From the Heart” Cooking Class – World Kitchen
February 11
Indulge in decadent dishes and sweet treats, made “From the Heart” and perfect for sharing  with friends, family, or your special Valentine! This culinary class is part of the World  Kitchen Series, which explores Chicago’s diverse cultural heritage through ethnic cuisines  and focuses on culinary skills and techniques.

Sing or Swing with Your Sweetie – Old Town School of Music (FREE)
February 14
Spend Valentine’s Day learning a step or two at the Old Town School of Music. Classes in  dancing and duets allow visitors to share their love of music and dance with their  significant other.

DINING SPECIALS

Art Institute of Chicago’s Terzo Piano
February 11 and 14
Warm your hearts with a romantic evening at Terzo Piano. Enjoy a four-course dinner  featuring the signature cuisine of Chef Tony Mantuano, cocktail service, a live band and one  of the best views in the city.

Atwood Café
Feb 10–14, dinner only
Chef Derek Simcik’s Valentine’s Day experience was inspired by the glamour and romance of  the roaring 20’s. Housed in the historic Hotel Burnham, dinner guests are invited to take a  flavorful journey back in time with dishes reminiscent of those served to the flappers and  gentlemen of the era.

Chicago’s Downtown Farmstand
This year-round market, which offers edible local products all produced within 250 miles of  Chicago, has everything you need for a romantic weekend brunch: Great River Milling waffle  mix, Wee Bee Jammin’ crepe mix and preserves, Burton’s maple syrup, Seedling Orchard cider,  TJ’s Free Range eggs and turkey sausage, Spice House hot cocoa mix, Tomato Mountain Farm  Bloody Mary mix, Quince & Apple preserves and more!

Geja’s Café’s – Eleven Day Valentine’s Festival Celebration
February 5–15
Geja’s Café will host its most romantic Valentine’s Day celebration yet. For eleven days,  the renowned “Restaurant of Romance” will be elegantly decorated and feature lavish  decorations, “Love Note Wednesday”, live flamenco and classical guitarists, photo keepsakes  and delicious sizzling hot fondue cuisine.

Giordano’s
February 7–14
Chicagoans and visitors are invited to eat their hearts out with Giordano’s heart-shaped,  signature stuffed pizzas. Diners can order varieties to their hearts-content—Giordano’s  Heart-Shaped Pizzas are available for any stuffed pizza combination at all Chicagoland  locations for dine-in, carryout, delivery and shipping nationwide.  

The Signature Room at the 95th – Ultimate Romance Dinner
Throughout February, take romance to a new level with an Ultimate Dinner package which  includes a gourmet candlelit dinner with exclusive butler service in a private dining room  set for two, a bottle of Dom Perignon champagne upon arrival, one dozen red roses in a vase  to take home, private musical entertainment and more. Minimum cost is $2,000 plus gratuity.
 
HOTEL PACKAGES

Kiss & Tell Romantic Getaway Package – Affinia Chicago
Rates from $134/night
Guests will enjoy an upgrade to a suite, a list of recommended romantic spots to kiss,  Affinia signature “Kiss Me” mints and “Kisses Goodnight” Turndown with Hershey Kisses and a  split of bubbly.

Stupid Cupid Deluxe Package – Essex Inn
Rates from $159/night
Looking for a way to sweep your other half off their feet? The Essex Inn has taken care of  all the details from a red rose with a special note to a gift card and gift bag from the 900  Shops. End your night with a sip of Moet & Chandon champagne and mouth-watering chocolates.

Fairmont Chicago’s Ultimate Way to Say “I Love You”
Fairmont Chicago has created a once in a lifetime Valentine’s Day experience. The $100,000  Romantic Getaway Package offers guests everything their heart desires. A rose petal red  carpet greets guests upon arrival as they are whisked to their Presidential Suite and  indulged with a lavender-infused bubble bath. The experience does not end at the hotel, as a  $10,000 shopping spree and a beautiful diamond and sapphire necklace create an unforgettable  romantic getaway.

Suitehearts Package – Hotel Monaco Chicago
Indulge in a romantic three-course dinner before taking in gorgeous views from the plush,  oversized window seats, then unwind in a soaking tub for two. This package includes  luxurious accommodations in a Riverview Suite, complimentary champagne and strawberries, a  three-course VIP dinner at the adjoining South Water Kitchen, served personally by the chef,  and a late 2 pm checkout.

Celebrate Love at the JW Marriott
Want to relax this Valentine’s Day? The JW Marriott Chicago has a Romantic Spa reservation  waiting for you. The indulgent spa package offers couple’s massages, luxurious  accommodations and breakfast for two at The Florentine restaurant. The relaxing experience  does not end at the spa. Couples are treated to a drawn bath accompanied with a bottle of  Veuve Clicquot Champagne and strawberries delivered to their room.

Ooh Là Là Romance Package – Omni Chicago Hotel
Rates from $261/night
Enjoy sparkling wine, petit fours, French macaroons and more, all specially arranged by  Cupid (Omni’s concierge) to make everything just perfect. This package also includes daily  breakfast for two in the hotel restaurant or in-room dining, standard “romantic” turndown  service including robes, music and lighting.

DO NOT DISTURB Package – Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
This decadent package includes a one night stay for two in a Deluxe King Guestroom with a  bottle of champagne and chocolate covered strawberries awaiting your arrival. Later that  night, return with a romantic turn down that includes a love poem, rose and bottle of  Kamasutra Chocolate Body Paint. The next morning, enjoy continental breakfast for two, as  well as a complimentary 2 pm late checkout based upon availability.

VISITOR INFORMATION RESOURCES
Visitors and Chicagoans planning to entertain out-of-town guests can receive trip-planning  assistance and information by visiting www.ExploreChicago.org. Brochures and information on  Chicago’s exciting events and activities are also available at the Visitor Information  Centers. Friendly Visitor Representatives can answer questions and assist in planning an  unforgettable itinerary. The visitor centers are located in two of the city’s most popular  areas: across from Millennium Park in the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph Street;  and at the historic Water Works pumping station, 163 E. Pearson Street at Michigan Avenue.

For daily alerts about fun and FREE things to do in Chicago, follow Explore Chicago on  Twitter at twitter.com/explorechicago and on Facebook at facebook.com/explorechicago.  Discover fun itineraries on our blog at explorechicagotourism.com, and on Foursquare at  foursquare.com/explorechicago. Get answers to your Chicago questions on the go, restaurant  recommendations, and travel tips via the FREE Twitter Concierge Service @explorechicago.

The Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture is dedicated to promoting Chicago as a premier  cultural destination to domestic and international leisure travelers, providing innovative  visitor programs and services, and presenting free world-class public programs. For more  information please visit www.ExploreChicago.org.

iPlay America Offers Special New Year’s Eve Package Ideal for Families at New Jersey Indoor Themepark, Entertainment Venue

iPlay America and Encore Event Center, an indoor theme park, entertainment venue and event center in Freehold, N.J., is offering a fun, unique way for families celebrate New Year’s Eve this year.

iPlay America is offering a New Year’s Eve package that appeals to guests of all ages. The festivities take place from 8:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. and include unlimited rides and attractions, a $5 iPA game card, a sumptuous buffet and a frozen yogurt at Mixx for $59.95 per person. Any guests 21 and older can also chose to upgrade their package to include an open bar while dining, which features beer, wine and champagne for an additional $19.95 per person. Unlimited rides and attractions include: iPA Speedway, Kite Flyer, Skyscraper, Spin Zone, Jump Around, Happy Swing, Dizzy Dragons, Cosmic Battle, 4D Theater Thrill Ride and Just iKidz.

“iPlay America is excited to offer a brand new way to celebrate New Year’s Eve with friends and family in an interactive, secure and family-friendly way,” commented Marcy Edwards, Director of Marketing. “This is certainly a unique experience where kids, parents, and grandparents can all have fun together ringing in the New Year!”

Private Brownstone Celebration rooms are also available to rent for the evening, providing guests a private space to eat and celebrate with their friends and family. For additional details, contact a Reservation Specialist at 732-577-8200. Tickets for the New Year’s Eve celebration are available online at www.iPlayAmerica.com. They can also be purchased in the Grand Lobby of iPlay America or reserved by phone.

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