Iceless Curling and Cozy Igloos Return to Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park

Cozy Igloos by Prime Video are heated, clear structures decorated with seasonal decor that provide an intimate setting to enjoy festive food and drinks in a private space with some of the best views of the iconic Bryant Park skating rink and Bank of America Winter Village (Photo Credit: Angelito Jusay for Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park)

NYC’s celebrated Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, featuring the city’s only free-admission skating rink, holiday market and delicious food offerings, has returned for its 20^th season, Friday, October 29, 2021 – Sunday, March 6, 2022. 

Tickets are now on sale for Curling Café and Cozy Igloos by Prime Video at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. The two wildly popular activities are returning to Winter Village with a new look.

As the first-ever ICELESS curling experience, the Curling Café offers guests a dedicated curling lane where two teams of up to 4 people each can experience “street” or iceless curling for 90 minutes. Each lane is accompanied by a private, heated dome where their teams can warm up and share seasonal drinks and bites between games.

Cozy Igloos by Prime Video are heated, clear structures decorated with seasonal decor that provide an intimate setting for family and friends to enjoy festive food and drinks – including mulled wine and hot chocolate – in a private space with some of the best views of the iconic skating rink.

More information and reservations for the  Curling Café and Cozy Igloos by Prime Video at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park can be found at wintervillage.org.

Curling Café and Cozy Igloo adult and family packages, for either 1-4 or 5-8 guests, will be available and must be reserved online. Hours for Cozy Igloos are Monday through Friday from noon to 9:30pm and from 11:30am to 11pm on weekends. Hours for The Curling Cafe are from 3:30pm – 9pm Wednesday through Friday, 11:30am – 9pm on Saturday, and 11:30am – 7pm on Sunday.

All igloos and equipment will be sanitized by the park’s dedicated team between each and every booking. Please note that reservations cannot accommodate parties larger than 8 people unless you book more than 1 dome. For more information on Bryant Park’s safety practices, visit wintervillage.org.

While still proceeding with an abundance of caution for the safety of its guests, Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is thrilled to be welcoming back its most popular attractions this winter season:

• The Rink: the only free-admission ice skating rink in NYC is open daily. The Rink is completely outdoors, and skate time and rentals can be reserved in advance online. New skate reservation dates will be released on a rolling basis throughout the season. Masks are encouraged, and Bryant Park is continuing to implement additional cleaning protocols throughout the day to ensure high-touch surfaces and shared rental equipment are sanitized and safe for use.
• Holiday Shops: the open-air holiday market are open daily through January 2, 2022, and features more than 170 new and returning merchants. 
• Small Business Spotlight presented by Bank of America: four New York City minority-owned small businesses with annual revenue of $1 million or less will have the chance to showcase their products in a rent-free booth, made possible by Bank of America, as part of this season’s Holiday Shops. 

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Palm Beach Zoo’s Holiday Spectacular Returns Starting Nov 19; Tickets Now on Sale

While the animals slumber, Palm Beach Zoo is illuminated for the holidays with over one million eco-friendly lights, with the return of the “Zoo Lights“ festival taking place Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Nov. 19-Jan. 2, 2022.

WEST PALM BEACH – While the animals slumber, Palm Beach Zoo is illuminated for the holidays with over one million eco-friendly lights, with the return of the “Zoo Lights“ festival taking place Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Nov. 19-Jan. 2, 2022.

Each evening of Zoo Lights, the Zoo reopens from 6-9 pm, aglow with themed displays throughout its 23 acres. The festive holiday fun also features photos with Santa (until Dec. 23rd), a DJ holiday dance party, and seasonal treats.

Advanced ticket purchase is recommended, and Zoo Lights attendees can select from two specific times for entry; 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Tickets are limited each evening to allow for plenty of room to move about the Zoo.

Tickets for the event are available at http://www.palmbeachzoo.org/zoolights. Palm Beach Zoo Annual Members receive special pricing. Ride sharing is encouraged.

Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida 33405-3035, 561-547-9453 (WILD) www.palmbeachzoo.org.

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Winter Village With Free Skating, Holiday Market Returns to NYC’s Bryant Park

NYC’s celebrated Bank of America winter Village at Bryant Park, featuring the city’s only free-admission skating rink, holiday market and delicious food offerings, has returned for its 20^th season,Friday, October 29, 2021 – Sunday, March 6, 2022 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

NYC’s celebrated Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, featuring the city’s only free-admission skating rink, holiday market and delicious food offerings, has returned for its 20^th season, Friday, October 29, 2021 – Sunday, March 6, 2022.  While still proceeding with an abundance of caution for the safety of its guests, Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is thrilled to be welcoming back its most popular attractions this winter season:

• The Rink: the only free-admission ice skating rink in NYC is open daily. The Rink is completely outdoors, and skate time and rentals can be reserved in advance online. New skate reservation dates will be released on a rolling basis throughout the season. Masks are encouraged, and Bryant Park is continuing to implement additional cleaning protocols throughout the day to ensure high-touch surfaces and shared rental equipment are sanitized and safe for use.
• Holiday Shops: the open-air holiday market are open daily through January 2, 2022, and features more than 170 new and returning merchants. 
• Small Business Spotlight presented by Bank of America: fourNew York City minority-owned small businesses with annual revenue of $1 million or less will have the chance to showcase their products in a rent-free booth, made possible by Bank of America, as part of this season’s Holiday Shops. 

Last year’s featured small businesses were sustainable candle and soap company TREE*STAR, Brooklyn-based bakeshop Annie Mae’s Bakery, custom-designed hat shop Harlem’s Heaven Hats, and Tibet Tree of Life, a business selling incense, shawls, and other products made in the Himalayan region.

The Lodge by Prime Video: a covered, outdoor après skate escape is where visitors can cozy up with a festive cocktail, enjoy delicious food, watch the ice skaters or admire the tree.

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Early Bird Pricing for Magic of Lights at Jones Beach, Long Island

The Magic of Lights returns to Jones Beach, Long Island, November 19 through January 2, 2022 (courtesy of The Magic of Lights)

Early bird pricing has already opened for Magic of Lights, a family-friendly, drive-through holiday lights festival. The 2.5-mile drive-through experience of dazzling, sparkling, and twinkling series of magical light displays is taking place in two New York City-area locations: PNC Long Island’s Jones Beach State Park and Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ, from Friday, November 19 through Sunday, January 2.

Magic of Lights features themed light displays using the latest LED technology and digital animations. It is highlighted by the Illuminating Mega Trees consisting of 120-feet of dancing, lights synchronized to holiday music. Other dazzling festive light displays include Winter Wonderland, The Night Before Christmas, Candyland, Toyland, Sports Row, 12 Days of Christmas, and the notorious Enhancing Tunnel of Lights. In addition, new to this year’s exhibit are the Prehistoric Christmas and Snow Flurry Tunnel.

Magic of Lights is open Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. (dusk) until 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. (dusk) until 11 p.m. (Magic of Lights will be closed on Friday, December 31). For dates, times, and ticket availability, visit magicoflights.com.

Admission is $25 in advance or $35 at the gate on weekdays and $30 in advance or $40 at the gate on weekends through November. Price is based per car and will change in December. Special pricing is available for limousines and buses. Group ticket rates are available. Tickets are available through TicketMaster.com.

Visitors can save $3 on weekday admission when they bring at least two non-perishable food items benefiting Long Island and New Jersey food banks. Other charity nights will be announced in the coming weeks. Last year Magic of Lights’ philanthropy made a meaningful impact in local communities by donating more than $150,000 in cash to local organizations in addition to collecting non-perishable food items, toys, books, coats and more for those who need it most. At Jones Beach, A portion of every entry ticket will support Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the Foundation for Long Island State Parks Inc.

The Magic of Lights uses the latest CAD technology and is hand-crafted at the Magic of Lights warehouse in Medina, OH,. The displays combine for more than 10 miles of LED lighting across all presentations, in the trees, and on the buildings. There are 10 different colors of LED bulbs used. The highest scene is 32-feet tall, and the longest is several hundred feet long. The steel displays are designed, bent, cut, and welded into about 800 frames combined in different configurations to create each show’s giant winter holiday scenes.

The Magic of Lights is produced in partnership between Live Nation and FunGuys Events. In Long Island, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is a co-producer and the event is presented by New York Community Bank.

Jones Beach State Park, 895 Bay Parkway Jones Beach, NY. To book, go to https://magicoflights.com/events/jonesbeach/

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Finger Lakes Festival of Lights Underway

Finger Lakes Festival of Lights, a new, world-class, attraction featuring thousands of dazzling lights, is now open every evening through December.

Finger Lakes Festival of Lights, a new, world-class, attraction featuring thousands of dazzling lights, is now open every evening through December. More than 1,000 illuminated silk, porcelain and steel larger-than-life Chinese lanterns draw visitors through a magical path of discovery with each turn providing beautiful and unexpected moments of excitement and awe.

Seneca Lake was carefully selected for this incredible show because of its natural, outdoor setting known for its unparalleled vistas, crystal clear water and majestic trees and foliage. The show brings this scenery to life after dark, creating an experience that celebrates and enhances the natural world at night through artistic fantasy and illumination.

Produced by American Lantern Festivals Inc., the Finger Lakes Festival of Lights illustrates the story of a brother and sister who visit their grandfather in the Finger Lakes. Grandpa spins tall tales and stories about Seneca Lake.

The Finger Lakes Festival of Lights is a one-mile, self-guided walk through the woods, on a highly manicured path that’s accessible for people of all ages and abilities. The Festival is located behind Grist Iron Brewing in Burdett. The experience is open seven days a week, opening at 7PM with last entry at 9:30PM. (Grist Iron Brewing Company, 4880 NYS Route 414, Burdett, NY 14818, 929-434-1342, http://gristironbrewing.com/)

All tickets are single use general admission and allow entrance to the festival anytime after opening date.

Tickets start at $19.95 if purchased in advance online; the cost at the door is $30; children four and under enter free. Information and tickets are online, https://fingerlakeslights.com/

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Cape May MAC’s 47th Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tour Goes Virtual But Holiday Tours of Physick Estate Continue

Cape May’s Candlelight House Tour will be virtual this year, but other traditional tours and events go on (photo courtesy Cape May MAC)

CAPE MAY, NJ –Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) announces its 2020 Cape May Christmas Candlelight House Tour is available for purchase to experience virtually this year, but other Cape May traditional holiday programs, focused around the historic Emlen Physick Estate, continue daily.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions and protocols this year, Cape May MAC made the difficult decision that these annual holiday tours, usually offered on three nights in December, must be cancelled in 2020. Cape May’s Christmas Candlelight House Tours have been a beloved annual tradition for nearly half a century. Cape May MAC launched this tour in 1973 and ever since it has been a highlight of the Christmas season in Cape May, America’s only National Historic Landmark City. Thousands of people on three nights in December travel to more than a dozen homes, inns, B&Bs, churches and hotels, stepping across the thresholds to take in interiors beautifully decorated for the holidays. It is one of Cape May MAC’s largest fund-raisers.

“This year, it was decided to create a video that will bring the joy and excitement of these Cape May Christmas tours directly into people’s homes, to continue this tradition unbroken. With enthusiastic participation from Cape May innkeepers, B&B owners and homeowners, planning began this summer and production is nearly complete.”

“Of course, we look forward to when we can offer these self-guided tours in person once again, but we could not have Christmas in Cape May without them in 2020,” said Cape May MAC Director and CEO Jody Alessandrine.

For the first time, the tour will be entirely virtual, via a video available for purchase through Vimeo On Demand ($30). Featured are 10 Cape May homes, B&Bs and inns decorated for the holidays including interviews with owners and innkeepers. Participating properties include: The John B. McCreary House (“The Abbey”), Angel of the Sea Bed & Breakfast, The Bedford Inn, The Cherry House, The Emlen Physick Estate, Franklin at 721, The Henry Sawyer Inn, The Mainstay Inn, The Mason Cottage and The Mission Inn.

The Trailer is available to watch online here;

https://vimeo.com/ondemand/capemaychristmastour.

Guests may purchase the video directly anytime via the link. The video will then be made available to purchasers automatically to watch after its release on Monday, Dec. 21 at 9 a.m.

This presentation is sponsored by Sturdy Savings Bank and Brown & Brown Insurance. Proceeds benefit Cape May MAC, a not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors since 1970. Cape May MAC membership is open to all. Visit capemaymac.org/support/membership to learn more.

While the candlelight tour is virtual, the rest of Cape May’s traditional holiday tours are taking place daily:

The Emlen Physick Estate is open daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) for holiday tours. Designed by American architect Frank Furness, the Physick House is Cape May’s Victorian House Museum. Its restoration began Cape May’s 50-year renaissance that continues to this day.

New in 2020! Winter Wonderwalk this season at the Physick Estate.

Open-air trolley tours are offered throughout this holiday season in Cape May. Bring a blanket!

Vintage restaurant is open during the holidays with heated, outdoor dining under the patio tent on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, for both brunch and dinner.

An Old-fashioned Christmas Exhibit features a huge indoor Christmas Tree and a Dept. 56 Dickens Village collection. There is free admission to this popular annual display.

For information about Cape May MAC’s year-round schedule of tours, festivals and special events, visit capemaymac.org. For information about historic accommodations, contact Cape May Historic Accommodations at capemaylodging.com. For information about restaurants, accommodations and shopping, call the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May at 609-884-5508. For information on the city’s COVID-19 response, please visit capemaystrong.org.

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Have a Colonial Christmas in Williamsburg, Virginia

The Busch Gardens Christmas Celebration runs on select dates through Jan. 3, featuring new village entertainment, 15 coasters and rides, a Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt, festive holiday shopping, sweet culinary offerings, and meeting Santa in his Workshop.

In Colonial Williamsburg, in addition to Grand Illumination, enjoy special holiday events throughout December include caroling at the Courthouse, walking tours highlighting colonial Christmas decorations and the galleries of the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, visits with Father Christmas, ice skating at the Liberty Ice Pavilion, the community Christmas Tree lighting with special readings of “The Night Before Christmas,” the Lighting of the Cressets on historic Duke of Gloucester Street with strolling musicians and tidings of good cheer Dec. 17 – 24, holiday feasts and meals, plenty of opportunities to shop for unique colonial gifts such as wreaths, centerpieces, and more. The living history attraction remains open for daily holiday programs with special health protocols in place.

Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area is fully decorated and holidaythemed programming is being presented daily ― mostly outdoors ― through New Year’s Day, along with a range of new exhibitions, seasonal programming and the famous Folk Art Christmas Tree at the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, which this year completed a $41.7-million donor-funded expansion.

In Merchants Square, a variety of shopping and dining options await, along with Liberty Ice Pavilion, now open daily on Duke of Gloucester Street. A new Christmas Market opens Fridays through Sundays, Dec. 4-19, at the corner of South Boundary Street and Francis Street, hosted in partnership with the City and CultureFixVA.

Event schedules and admission information is available at colonialwilliamsburg.org/holidays. Details on Colonial Williamsburg Resorts getaways, plus tavern and contemporary dining information are available at colonialwilliamsburghotels.com.

The Busch Gardens Christmas Celebration runs on select dates through Jan. 3, featuring new village entertainment, fifteen coasters and rides, a Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt, festive holiday shopping, sweet culinary offerings, and meeting Santa in his Workshop.

In Yorktown, catch the Yorktown Christmas Tree Lighting, a community tradition that goes back to 1945, on Dec. 4. The Christmas Market on Main Street, Dec. 5-6, features 60 vendors for holiday gift shopping along with holiday music, The Fifes and Drums of Yorktown, festive food and drink, and an appearance by Santa on York County’s first fire truck. On Dec. 6, enjoy Cookies with Santa at the Gallery at York Hall and learn about ancient Norse influences on modern Christmas culture at the Viking Yuletide Celebration at the Watermen’s Museum. Shop for holiday gifts while enjoying chowders, soups, baked goods and other treats at the Mistletoe Market at Riverwalk Landing, Dec. 12, also featuring a live ice carving demonstration and a Toyland Parade. From Dec. 19-31, Christmastide in Virginia at Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown recalls 17th- and 18th-century holiday traditions through special interpretive programs and musical entertainment of the period. At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, hear accounts of Christmas and winter in military encampments during the American Revolution and glimpse holiday preparations on a Revolution-era farm. A Jamestown Settlement, compare and contrast English Christmas customs of the period with how the season may have been observed in the difficult early years of the Jamestown colony. 

At Berkeley Plantation, enjoy Centuries of Christmas, Dec. 5 – Jan. 1, when the elegant 1726 mansion will be beautifully decorated with fresh greenery from Berkley’s gardens. Highlights include costumed guides sharing four centuries of stories, tours, workshops, teas and other special events.

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Celebrate the Holidays and Toast the New Year at Favorite New York & Hamptons Hot-Spots

Southhampton Social Club

New York City’s resident foodies are dashing all the way to these fine dining destinations to enjoy the very best in holiday treats and feasts. These New York restaurants are dishing up the holiday spirit from Manhattan to Long Island’s East End. So why not embark on a journey of festive fun and holiday celebrations happening throughout December and into the 2020 New Year.

Here are the gourmet dining establishments that have set their tables to welcome your family and friends for this Holiday Season:

New York City

T-Bar Steak & Lounge

T-Bar redefines the steakhouse experience with masterfully crafted New American entrees on the authentic steakhouse menu and from the raw bar. The sophisticated Upper East Side eatery offers outstanding cuisine in a sleek and comfortable setting, preferred by New York City’s power players and distinguished residents. For those looking for a relaxing dinner before the hustle and bustle of New Year’s Eve, T-Bar and Chef Ben Zwicker will be serving their regular a la carte menu starting at 5:00 pm. As always, the famous Steak Bar features Filet Mignon, Aged NY Strip Steak, Aged Bone-in Ribeye Steak and Black Angus Porterhouse Steak (for two) seasoned with Kosher salt plus black pepper and served with your choice of steak sauce; bearnaise sauce or poivre sauce. (1278 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10021, 212-772-0404, www.tbarnyc.com).

Russian Samovar

For a Russian holiday like none other, Russian Samovar is providing authentic Russian cuisine historically favored by native New Yorkers and members of the ethnic group in Manhattan’s Theater District. Party Like A Russian! at the restaurant’s New Year’s Eve celebration starting at 10:00 pm on Tuesday, December 31st, 2019. The main dining room will feature 6+ hours of partying with an incredible banquet for a seven-course meal, an unlimited liquor package, and live music for an evening of singing and dancing.

Russian Samovar

Russian Samovar’s seasonal menu includes the winter soup Salyanka with beef, smoked sausages, olives, pickles and onions; Vareniki are Russian dumplings served pan-fried with sour cream; and Khachapuri, a traditional Georgian three-cheese pastry. The dessert menu includes the popular Russian layered honey cake Medovik, traditional cheese cake Zapekanka, and Poached Pear served with ice cream and chocolate sauce.

Throughout the holiday season, family and friends can enjoy Russian Samovar’s time-honored history and the exceptional ambiance which embodies a 19th-century feel, complete with Russian folk prints and picturesque green and red shades. If you are in the Theatre District, head to Russian Samovar to experience Russian culture, New York City history and the most-lively musical and performing art shows featuring classical works, show tunes, ​lounge music, jazz, and Russian gypsy folk music.

Open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day: Normal Business Hours; Open New Year’s Eve: noon to 6 pm; open on New Year’s Day: 5-11 pm

Party Like A Russian! NYE 2020 Celebration begins at 10:00 pm on Tuesday, December 31^st, 2019. (256 West 52^nd Street , at 8^th Avenue, New York, NY 10019, 212-757-0168, www.russiansamovar.com.

Southampton

Claude’s at the Southampton Inn

The award-winning Claude’s Restaurant, at the Southampton Inn, brings the distinguished taste of the Hamptons all holiday season and year-round for visitors to the Village of Southampton, New York. The beloved restaurant is the epitome of comfort, casual dining and entertainment. Claude’s served breakfast daily, weekend brunch and dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening.

The fun and festivities roll into the New Year with Southampton Inn’s 22nd New Year’s Eve Gala. The New Year’s Eve package, at $475 for two adults, includes a one-night stay, dinner, dancing, open bar and midnight toast. Guests can add extra nights for $100. The gala is open to all residents and visitors for the ticket price of $125 (without a hotel reservation).

The Freaky Friday Theater/Dining package is perfect for a holiday outing with the family. Enjoy delicious dining at Claude’s and an amazing performance of Freaky Friday: “The Musical” at the Southampton Cultural Center. The theater is just steps away from the Inn at 25 Pond Lane, across from Agawam Park. (Freaky Friday, December 20, 2019 7pm and December 21 2019, 2pm & 7pm, General Admission: $20/adult, General Admission: $15/child; Dinner Package/adult: $60, Dinner Package/child under 12: $30; Brunch Package/adult: $45, Brunch Package/child: $25)

You can also book your own Holiday Party at the Inn. From gatherings in Claude’s Restaurant or their Library, to elegant celebrations in the ballroom, or one of the spacious banquet spaces, make your event unforgettable. Their events team will orchestrate your ideal celebration, from 10 to 200 people.

This time of year, Southampton Inn and Claude’s Restaurant provide the comforts of home for the holidays. Guests will enjoy holiday stockings stuffed with coupons and gifts from local village merchants, and a complimentary gift-wrapping room for guests after exploring the neighboring Village shops. The Inn is the perfect place to get cozy on a chilly day while enjoying a steaming mug of hot cider or holiday drink.

For the latest packages, deals and rates, call 631-283-6500, or visit http://www.southamptoninn.com. (91 Hill Street, Southampton, NY 11968).

Union Cantina

This time of year, guests can find a Hamptons-style Holiday fiesta at the award-winning Mexican eatery Union Cantina, featuring Live Music, entertaining daily happenings and signature specials. Bringing in the 2020 New Year, Union Cantina will host their Grand Fiesta New Year’s Eve Party featuring a Four-Hour Top Shelf Open Bar, Passed Hors d’oeuvres, A Full Dinner Buffet plus Dessert Table and a Live Musical performance featuring Deep C Revival and DJ Disco Pauly. Guests will also enjoy an assortment of party favors while watching live coverage of the Times Square Ball Drop.  All of this is included and tickets are just $75.00 each! If you’re interested in a la carte dinner service, that is available at our sister restaurant Union Burger Bar, adjacent to Union Cantina.

Award-winning Executive Chef Scott Kampf, previously featured on Food Network’s Iron Chefs of America, leads the kitchen all year-round, and will craft the contemporary holiday menu for the celebration. The sumptuous dinner buffet includes Tortilla Salad with mixed greens, heirloom tomatoes, avocado, mango vinaigrette; Beef Short Rib with apricot, jalapeño & habanero basted, crispy roasted corn and scallion polenta, charred brussel sprouts, queso fresco; Skillet Baked Salmon with paprika and ancho chili dusted salmon, rice medley of diced tomato, sweet corn, black beans and scallions in a cilantro agave glaze; Mexican Street Corn Pasta with chorizo sausage, sweet corn, asparagus tips and rigatoni finished in chipotle cream and topped with cotija cheese. The famous Deconstructed Chicken Enchilada satisfies a variety of palates, made with rojo chile sauce, queso blanco, asador cheese, pico de gallo, and avocado crema. The dessert table will include Union Churros, Tres Leches Cake and Apple Cinnamon Empanadas for a sweet ending to 2019.

Open Christmas Eve: 11:30 am to 8 pm, CLOSED Christmas Day. Open New Year’s Eve: 11:30 am to 4 pm; Open on New Year’s Day: 11:30 am to 10 pm Grand Fiesta New Year’s Eve Party at Union Cantina: 9 pm to 3 am Union Cantina, 40 Bowden Square, Southampton, NY. For reservations and more information, visit https://www.unioncantina.net/

Southampton Social Club

Heating things up in the Hamptons this holiday season, Southampton Social Club is the vibrant nightlife venue offering world-class fine dining, hip entertainment, private parties, weddings, corporate gatherings, special events and VIP occasions of all kinds. The Hamptons’ premier one-stop destination will host its 9th Annual New Year’s Bash featuring a passed and stationary hors d’oeuvres, a champagne toast at Midnight, assorted party favors and live coverage of the Ball Drop live from Times Square. DJ Loki will deliver an exhilarating soundtrack all night long as Southampton Social Club counts down the seconds of 2019, and that’s just the Silver Package Ticket ($95pp)!

The Premium level packages are: The Gold Package ($150pp) which includes all of the Silver Package and…. an exquisite Four-Course Dinner presented by award-winning Chef Scott Kampf featuring delicacies like Fresh Maine Lobster & Filet Mignon.  Please check out the website for the full menu and details. Seatings begin at 7pm. Wine and Cocktails are included throughout dinner service. The Platinum Package ($200pp) includes ALL of the Silver and Gold packages and…. you have your own table to party at all night long including bottle service. One bottle of Liquor and Champagne are included.

Southampton Social Club will re-open for nightly dinner service in early May but is available for private events all year long and of course for The 9th Annual New Year’s Bash Southampton Social Club, 256 Elm St, Southampton, NY. For reservations and more information, visit www.southamptonsocialclub.com or call 631-287-1400.

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Holiday Activities at American Dream Mall Include Big Snow Indoor Park

Lindsey Vonn, Kelly Clark, Red Gerard, Donna Weinbrecht, Don Ghermezian, Paul Ghermezian, Joe Hession, Hugh Reynolds are on hand to open Big SNOW American Dream, North America’s first indoor real-snow ski and snowboard park.

The holiday season has kicked off at American Dream mall, New Jersey, with festive activities for the entire family including free photos with Santa, face painting, and a winter market.

BIG SNOW AMERICAN DREAM OPENING

Big SNOW American Dream, North America’s first indoor real-snow ski and snowboard park opened December 5, Tickets and more information about Big SNOW can be found at  http://bigsnowamericandream.com/

PHOTOS WITH SANTA

American Dream’s Events Court is transformed into a winter wonderland this holiday season. Visit American Dream for a complimentary 5×7 print + digital photo with Santa between December 5 – December 24. Photos with Santa are available at your convenience, with no appointments needed. Suggested donations benefiting Make-A-Wish® New Jersey, our holiday non-profit partner, are encouraged. A complete listing of Santa’s schedule for the holiday season is available at www.americandream.com/event/santa. Santa is bilingual and is fluent in English and Spanish.

WINTER MARKET

The Winter Market at American Dream will debut this December and offer guests the opportunity to shop for unique gifts for loved ones, as well as sample snacks that will tease their appetites. Vendors include A’Jar Sweet Cream Factory, Bang Cookies, Italian Alps Gelato, Grisini Coffee, Ladurée, Pandora, Robin Ruth, Sleet & Sole, The New Stand and Unique Flowers.

FESTIVE FACE PAINTING

Enjoy festive face painting during the weekend at American Dream. Face painters will be in the Tree Court and Nickelodeon Universe every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from December 6 – December 22, as well as Monday, December 23 and Tuesday, December 24. Hours will be posted on www.americandream.com.

CHANUKAH CELEBRATIONS

Celebrate Chanukah at American Dream. Join us for a special Chanukah Skate at The Rink on Sunday, December 22 from 5:00PM – 8:00PM, with DJ Jon spinning and a menorah lighting at 6:00PM. The community will gather to celebrate the last night of Chanukah on Sunday, December 29 from 5:30PM – 6:30PM, with a menorah lighting in the Events Court at 6:00PM.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

American Dream will welcome local schools and community groups performing holiday hits throughout the winter wonderland. Enjoy performances several times throughout the afternoon on Saturday, December 7, 14, 21 and on Sunday, December 8, 15, 22.

WEAR THE SEASON WITH WHOOPI

Wear the season in Whoopi Goldberg’s amazing, amusing, limited edition Christmas and Chanukah sweaters. Holiday sweaters are available for sale in Whoopi = American Dream, open through January 2020. While you’re there, check out Whoopi’s new book ‘The Unqualified Hostess’ for inspiration and tips for all of your holiday soirees.

American Dream, developed by Triple Five Group, offers a curated mix of entertainment, retail and dining options. American Dream is approximately 3 million square feet and projects 40 million visitors annually. When complete, the destination will include over 450 retail, food and specialty shops, complemented by over 15 entertainment offerings including: fully-enclosed DreamWorks Water Park and Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park; Big SNOW American Dream; Kidzania; live Performing Arts Theater; 300-foot tall Observation Wheel; Merlin Entertainments’ Sea Life Aquarium and Legoland Discovery Center; The Rink – an NHL-regulation sized ice rink; and The Dining Terrace with over fifteen full service restaurants and the world’s only Munchie’s Food Hall. For more information visit www.americandream.com or follow on Instagram @americandream.

American Dream, 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford NJ 07073.

 

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Where to Eat, Drink and Be Merry in London this Holiday Season

There are arguably few other places that shine as bright as London during the holiday season. The capital is packed with Yuletide sights and activities such as a sing-along concert in the famed Royal Albert Hall, one of the city’s most distinctive buildings, a winter journey to the countryside aboard a vintage train and a decadent dinner accompanied by a performance of a Christmas Carol at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons.

There are arguably few other places that encapsulate Christmas as London during the holiday season. The capital is packed with Yuletide sights and activities such as a sing-along concert in the famed Royal Albert Hall, one of the city’s most distinctive buildings, a winter journey to the countryside aboard a vintage train and a decadent dinner accompanied by a performance of a “Christmas Carol.” These ideas from London and beyond will add sparkle to any itinerary this holiday season.

One More Sleep ‘Til Christmas

This holiday season, travelers can experience a quintessential London Christmas thanks to The Kensington. Situated in the heart of its namesake neighborhood, the hotel is offering a package that includes a four-night stay in a room or suite with daily à la carte breakfast, a festive lunch at the hotel restaurant Town House and two tickets to the Christmas Eve carols at the Royal Albert Hall, just a stone’s throw away from the hotel and a true London institution. The hall has been bringing jubilant shows to the city for almost 150 years. In addition to singing along with the carolers, children will have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus himself. After the show, guests can stop at the National History Museum’s ice skating rink to glide under the twinkling lights with the iconic Waterhouse building as a backdrop. Back at the hotel, enjoy a Christmas Day lunch set in the cozy drawing rooms of Town House restaurant. The traditional feast includes all the trimmings, from Christmas pudding to Perrier-Jouët Champagne. Little ones will be delighted to find a surprise turndown treat awaiting them back in their beds. Available from December 22-28. Rates start from $1,998 based on double occupancy B&B for four nights.

A Day at the Market

Known for being home to one of Europe’s top Christmas markets, Bath features over 150 twinkling chalets selling everything from homeware to handcrafted jewelry. For gourmands, there will be plenty of treats to enjoy on the spot or to take home for later, such as locally made cheese and chocolates. For a truly festive experience, Belmond British Pullman will host a roundtrip journey to Bath from London on December 4. The package includes a Bellini brunch on the outbound trip, a day at the market in Bath, and an indulgent four-course dinner on the return. Rates start at $650 per passenger.

Escape to the Swiss Alps

Cheese fondue, glühwein and all the cozy winter comforts of a Swiss resort can be found at The Bloomsbury’s seasonal al fresco restaurant, Dalloway Terrace. In collaboration with the alpine resort town of Gstaad, the restaurant has been reimagined with snow-dusted pine garlands and traditional cow bells nestled amongst the frosty foliage. Famed as a winter playground for A-listers and global icons, Gstaad’s Swiss traditions are apparent in the terrace, such as bespoke “Scherenschnitte” (Swiss paper cuttings) on display around the restaurant. Travelers to London this winter can find a cozy spot on the heated terrace and warm up with Foxford woolen blankets and a Swiss inspired afternoon tea complete with a Mont Blanc tart, Edel Weiss white chocolate cream and a Swiss chocolate snow coated pine tree. Warming cocktails such as an alpine toddy, a hot toddy with a chamomile twist are delivered to the table with a Retro Viewer that allows guests to gaze upon the picturesque mountains of Gstaad between sips. Afternoon tea at Dalloway Terrace starts at $50 per person.

Dinner with Dickens

Guests can experience a Christmas in the city and country with Belmond’s new package that combines two nights at Belmond Cadogan Hotel – the British brand’s first London address with private access to the Cadogan Estate Gardens – and one night at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, a 15^th-century manor in the English countryside. On December 21, actor Gerald Dickens, great-great-grandson of A Christmas Carol author Charles Dickens, will perform a one-man show of his ancestor’s classic story at Le Manoir’s two Michelin-starred restaurant. Diners will not only be treated to light-hearted scenes from the story but will also hear diary excerpts from those who were close to the author. Rates for the Belmond Cadogan Hotel and Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons package start at $2,955 per couple; dinner at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons can be added for $290 per person.

 

For more travel features, visit:

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