Family Travelers Magazine BLOG - Family Travelers Magazine

Five Star New Year's Eve - The Hottest New Year's Eve event in Orlando!

12/29/2016

The Hottest New Year's Eve event in Orlando and Family Travelers Magazine will be there!!

The all-white-and-gold themed party is located in a palatial pop-up venue on Orlando’s I-Drive 360, featuring endless food and premium libations all night long, outdoor amenities and a private fireworks show.

Previous hosts and attendees include - Ryan Phillippe, DJ Robin Schulz, Brazilian singerMichel Telo, soccer star Ronaldo “The Phenomenon” Nazario de Lima and renowned Brazilian actress Isabeli Fontana and more!

http://fivestarnye.com/orlando

#fivestarnye
#fivestarnyeorlando
#visitorlando
#internationaldrive
#AANR
#VisitFlorida
#BrandUSA

Click to see all of Family Travelers Magazine articles!

The National WWII Museum - New Orleans, LA

12/21/2016

The National WWII Museum - New Orleans, LA

The Must-See, Inspirational, Educational and Absolutely Immersive Experience

By Steven Skelley and Thomas Routzong

When we planned our visit to New Orleans, we knew we’d visit the world famous French Quarter, sample the Cajun and Creole food and view the unique historic cemeteries but we had no idea that the city is also home to one of the most impressive and immersive museums we have ever seen. The National WWII Museum brought tears to our eyes and inspiration to our hearts through exhibits, films, immersive experiences, photos and the stories of those who lived and those who died. <MORE>

DECEMBER DELIGHTS IN NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FLORIDA

12/8/2016

DECEMBER DELIGHTS IN NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FLORIDA

Spend the holiday season in the New Smyrna Beach area and give the gift of travel
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. (November 8, 2016) - The holiday season is celebrated in many ways and in many places. But in quaint, little New Smyrna Beach, Florida, the traditions are celebrated as expected: by the water. The New Smyrna Beach area offers many Florida holiday traditions that gives individuals the chance to experience the holiday season in a beach destination.

Christmas on Canal Street is a very popular occasion during the month of December with a series of events that celebrate the holiday season in various ways. Spark the Spirit is a family-friendly event that kicks off Christmas on Canal Street with a tree lighting ceremony and live entertainment in the beautiful downtown historic district. Christmas Park, which is located at the corner of Live Oak & Canal Street, will have sparkling decorations and the opportunity for children to see Santa at his Work Hub. During Thanksgiving weekend, visitors can also experience the Christmas Coastal Market on Canal Street by shopping through a wide variety of beautiful gifts and holiday decor handcrafted by local artisans. Live entertainment, face painting and balloon animals will be available and kids will even have the chance to visit Santa, see a mermaid or ride The Party Train Express in the FUN ZONE.

The New Smyrna Beach area also hosts a Holiday Land and Sea Parade. The parade will travel from Canal Street to Flagler Avenue and will include floats, cars, bicycles and motorcycles decorated by local merchants, organizations and residents. There will also be marching bands, dancers, troupes of horses, live music, bead necklaces, candy and Santa! The 29th Annual Holiday Boat Parade will also appear this holiday season and will begin at Menard-May Park in Edgewater, Florida, where boats will travel through the Intracoastal Waterway north, cruising past the Judges' Stand in Riverside Park, and concluding at the Waterfront LOOP in New Smyrna Beach.

In addition to the many festivities held during the first week of December, the IMAGES Holiday Tour of Homes will present five unique and interesting homes along with the Smyrna Yacht Club decorated for the holidays by area florists. The halls have all been decorated to celebrate the holidays in their own individual style. Norwood's Eatery and Treehouse Bar will also be hosting their 21st Annual Holiday Food & Wine Festival. The festivities will include live music, wine tastings and more. There will even be a Sunday brunch with a Bloody Mary bar.

Light up Flagler is another fun holiday celebration hosted near the beginning of December. Flagler Avenue will be aglow as part of the free, holiday kick-off event, which will include toys, entertainers, carolers, and more as businesses light their facades and offer tastings. Attendees can donate new, unwrapped toys and receive a holiday commemorative photo at Santa's Workshop at the corner of Flagler Avenue and Cooper Street.

The New Smyrna Beach area shines bright throughout the holiday season from decorative lights hanging on business buildings to the smiles of visitors enjoying the events in the seaside community. The holiday season already provides the gift of joy to friends and families alike. Give the gift of travel by wrapping New Smyrna Beach in a bow and surprising your loved ones with a wonderful vacation getaway to a beach destination.

Booking a vacation or holiday stay online is easy with our one-stop-shop booking tool. Visitors can get easy access to book hotel reservations, dining reservations or even purchase attraction or airline tickets at nsbfla.com. Family and friends can also give the gift of travel by buying gift certificates for their loved one to enjoy a beautiful accommodation, a unique restaurant or a fun attraction in the area. Individuals will be thrilled with a gift that offers such a nice getaway in a warm beach town. While out and about, visitors can access even more events and things to do right at their fingertips with our mobile app.

For more information about the area, interested visitors can call 386.428.1600 to plan their vacation today or by booking online at nsbfla.com.

About New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach possesses a hometown quality reflected in its architecture, 13 miles of pristine beach, recreational inland waterways, eclectic restaurant scenes and friendly community of residents. Accommodations here range from charming bed and breakfast inns to family-size condominium units and oceanfront hotels. Visitors and locals constantly enjoy frequent art shows, annual festivals, historical and cultural sites filled with rich history and many unique boutiques, galleries and sidewalk cafes scattered throughout Canal Street and Flagler Avenue. The New Smyrna Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau offers a variety of informational resources readily available for both local residents and out-of-town business and leisure travelers. Residents and visitors can learn about the area's many options for fun dining, shopping, overnight accommodations, attractions, recreation and more.

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New Smyrna Beach was voted BEST BEACH for ten consecutive years by readers of Orlando Sentinel! More information about New Smyrna Beach is available online at www.nsbfla.com or by calling 386-428-1600. Follow @NewSmyrnaBeach1 on Twitter, Visit New Smyrna Beach on Facebook, @visitnewsmyrnabeach on Instagram, visitnewsmyrna on Pinterest or Visit New Smyrna Beach on YouTube for updates about events, tourist and local activity or other information about local attractions. Download the free NSB Mobile App for iPhone and Android to receive this information on the go.

Metropolitan Opera's Holiday Offers!

12/8/2016

Metropolitan Opera's Holiday Offers!

As the holiday season approaches, the Met would like to share a number of options for visitors looking to experience the Met that are both affordable and accessible. Whether you are visiting New York or a native New Yorkers there is a show on-stage for you. A number of family friendly and “first-time opera goer” shows including La Boheme, Aida, Manon Lescaut, The Magic Flute, and Romeo and Juliet will premiere at the Met in upcoming months.

When visiting New York or wanting to explore something new on a fun night out - the opera doesn’t have to break the budget. Regular priced tickets begin at $25, and rush tickets are also available on a first-come, first-served basis via the Met’s website. Tickets go on sale for performances Monday-Friday at noon, matinees four hours before curtain, and Saturday evenings at 2pm. More information on rush tickets can be found here.

La Boheme, Aida, Manon Lescaut, The Magic Flute, and Romeo and Juliet will be on-stage at the Met on select dates throughout November, December and January.

Two kids-friendly pre-show events will be held on Thursday, December 29 and Friday, December 30. Family friendly activities will be held on the Grand Tier preceding the abridged, English-language version of Julie Taymor’s production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. Children will be able to learn how sets are constructed, visit the props petting zoo, meet cast members, and get a special insider’s view into the behind-the-scenes world of the Metropolitan Opera. The whole family is welcome to enjoy kid-friendly snacks at the Revlon Bar before watching the acclaimed production by the creative force behind Broadway’s The Lion King. Doors open at 10:00am. Must be a ticket holder to attend the event.
In addition to all of the accessible shows on stage, the Met Opera has opened its doors to the public – in celebration of their 50th anniversary season – for the first time. This season the “Front of House” is open during weekday hours (10am- 2pm) so the public can explore the magnificent lobby, chandeliers, and watch dress rehearsals from the famed red steps. A new archival exhibition is also on view in Founder’s Hall – the lower level of the Met Opera lobby. The exhibition explores what the Met might have looked like architecturally had another plan been used or a different location had been chosen (there were thoughts about Rockefeller Center) and also looks back at the first season of the Met Opera in 1966, specifically the first show of Antony and Cleopatra with old photos and memorabilia from the time.
Please see below for more information on each show.

(*mat – matinee showing)

La Bohème
When many people think of opera, Puccini’s La Bohème comes to mind. Our timeless production features over 200 singers and actors, as well as a horse and a donkey! You may have caught a moment of the production on Conan– here’s a link if you want to take a look, or you can find a number of videos of the production here.
Dates: November 16, 19, 23, 26mat, 29, Dec 3, 8, Jan 6, 11, 14mat
http://www.metopera.org/Season/2016-17-Season/boheme-puccini-tickets/

Aida
The Met’s grand production of Verdi’s Aida returns to the stage this fall. This ancient Egyptian tragedy is one of most performed operas at the Met, second only to La Bohème. You can get an idea for the vastness of the production in this clip.
Dates: November 11, 15, 19mat, 22, 26, December 2
More info: http://www.metopera.org/Season/2016-17-Season/aida-verdi-tickets/

Manon Lescaut
Two of opera’s most popular sopranos, Anna Netrebko and Kristine Opolais, will share the title role this month in Puccini’s tragic love storyManon Lescaut. Passion and emotion are on full display in this film-noir inspired production – you can see Opolais’s heated portrayal in this clip, and we’re excited to hear Anna Netrebko take on this role for the first time here at the Met.
Dates: November 14, 18, 21, 25, 30, Dec 3mat, 7, 10
More info: http://www.metopera.org/Season/2016-17-Season/manon-lescaut-puccini-tickets/

The Magic Flute
The Met’s English-language family adaptation of Mozart’s sublime and mystical journey, a new holiday tradition in the city, returns in Julie Taymor’s fanciful production. Young stars Janai Brugger and Ben Bliss are the fairy-tale princess and prince, and Christopher Maltman reprises his acclaimed interpretation of the bird-catcher Papageno. Special holiday pricing and weekday matinees are available for this abridged version, conducted by Antony Walker. Watch a clip here!
Date: December 20, 23, 26, 29mat, 30mat, Jan 2,5
More info: https://www.metopera.org/Season/2016-17-Season/magic-flute-mozart-tickets/

Romeo and Juliet
Diana Damrau and Vittorio Grigolo are back on stage together as opera’s classic lovers, in Gounod’s lush Shakespeare adaptation. The production has a stunning backdrop and intricate costumes which remind viewers of the fairytale turned dark love story they grew up knowing and loving.
Date: December 31, Jan 4, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 25, 28, Mar 3, 8, 11, 15, 18
More info: https://www.metopera.org/Season/2016-17-Season/romeo-et-juliette-gounod-tickets/

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY BURSTS WITH LIFE DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

12/8/2016

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY BURSTS WITH LIFE DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

Unique experiences, family - friendly events, a festive atmosphere, and a spectacular setting help Santa Ynez Valley ring in the holiday season

(SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, Calif.)— Already a renowned wine and food destination that offers respite from busy day-to-day lives, the Santa Ynez Valley turns even more magical during the holiday season. The region’s small-town charms embody the holiday spirit, and the festive lights and decorations of a community that includes one of TIME magazine’s “9 Most Christmassy Towns in America” only accentuate the Valley’s natural beauty

Holiday events such as the lighting of a 75-foot redwood Christmas tree, gingerbread wonderlands, visits from Santa, strolls through truly unique shops and merchants, where one is sure to find a truly unique gift, and a holiday wine and beer walk only serve to make the season brighter. Comprised of the distinct communities of Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Solvang, just two hours from Los Angeles and a scenic four-hour drive from San Francisco, no place celebrates the holidays quite like the Santa Ynez Valley.

“While every season in the Santa Ynez Valley is special for its own unique reasons, the holiday season is among my favorite times to be here,” said Shelby Sim, executive director of Visit Santa Ynez Valley. “The atmosphere is festive and authentic. The entire community embraces the spirit of the season, and the result is a truly joyous and beautiful experience for residents and visitors alike.”

Following are a few of the events and festivals that will ring in the holiday season in the Santa Ynez Valley:

Santa Ynez Christmas Tree Lighting
Thursday, Dec. 1, from 4-5:30 p.m.
Santa Ynez Valley’s holiday cheer begins with the lighting of the largest Christmas Tree in the Valley. The evening begins with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus in downtown Santa Ynez, and the atmosphere is filled with live entertainment and the smells of cookies and cider. The evening is capped with the lighting of a 75-foot redwood tree, offering an impressive start to Santa Ynez Valley’s holiday season.

Los Alamos Holiday Stroll
Friday, Dec. 2, 5-8 p.m.
Deck downtown Los Alamos with holiday cheer during the Los Alamos Holiday Stroll. Hosted by the Los Alamos Valley Men’s Club — a local philanthropic not-for-profit — the event begins with the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the center of town. Christmas carols fill the air as you stroll through town perusing the offerings of Los Alamos merchants. From contemporary art, to fine, locally produced wines, to delicious cuisine, each unique Los Alamos business offers something to be discovered in a festive holiday atmosphere.

Solvang Julefest
Events begin on Dec. 2 and held on select dates throughout December
All that gives Solvang its character — its small-town charms and Danish-American traditions — is made better and brighter during Julefest (pronounced yule-fest). The holiday season springs to life with the annual tree-light ceremony (Dec. 2) and the town sparkles with holiday cheer. The Solvang Julefest Parade and after-parade children’s performance (Dec. 3), and Community Nativity Pageant (Dec. 10) hearken back to holiday seasons gone by. And visits from Santa Claus to Santa Village in Solvang Park (Dec. 2-4, 10-11) and the Holiday Lights Tour (Dec. 13) offer children memories that will last forever. The Julefest Wine & Beer Walk (Dec. 10-11) is a festive event unique to Solvang, and every Christmas list can be fulfilled at Shop, Mingle & Jingle (Dec. 2-4, 9-11) and Third Wednesday and Farmer’s Market (Dec. 21).

Los Olivos Olde Fashioned Christmas
Saturday, Dec. 3, from 1-8 p.m.
Los Olivos drips with holiday warmth and spirit all season long, and it starts with one festive day that all in the family will enjoy. Start the day at St. Mark’s In-The-Valley Episcopal Church and its Gingerbread Wonderland, with gingerbread houses decorated by local artisans and school children. Find truly unique gifts at Artisan Boutique in the Grange. And kids will love a ride on Summerset Farm & Dale’s Train at Lavinia Park, and a visit from Santa Claus downtown and at St. Mark’s. The town comes alive with the official lighting of the Los Olivos Christmas Tree.

Buellton Winter Fest
Sunday, Dec. 4, from 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
The mild climate of the Santa Ynez Valley may never bring snow. But with a holiday village that piles some 20 tons of snow for all to enjoy, the dream of a white Christmas is indeed possible at the Buellton Winter Fest. The Winter Fest begins with Breakfast with Santa and ends with a spectacular light parade and the traditional Buellton Christmas Tree Lighting. In between, enjoy food trucks, vendors, holiday libations, and all the snow in the Holiday Village.

Planning a trip to the Santa Ynez Valley during the holiday season is simple at visitsyv.com, where visitors can research events and attractions, book lodging and activities, and create a custom travel itinerary.

About the Santa Ynez Valley:
Barely two hours from Los Angeles and a scenic four-hour drive from San Francisco, the Santa Ynez Valley feels worlds apart from both. With six distinct communities encompassing everything from classic California wine country to Northern European traditions to the very best of the Old West, the Santa Ynez Valley is home to endless possibilities. Here in and around the towns of Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Solvang visitors will find more than 100 wineries, incredible food, special events and a unique, rich heritage. For more information, including a complete listing of wedding venues, restaurants, wineries, tasting rooms and events, go to VisitSYV.com.

Holiday Family Fun in Chattanooga, Tennessee!

12/8/2016

Holiday Family Fun in Chattanooga, Tennessee!

There is endless fun to be had for children, teens and even mom and dad in Chattanooga this fall/winter!

The city boasts a compact downtown, offering easy access to top attractions, including the Creative Discovery Museum, High Point Climbing and Fitness and to a number of family friendly dining options.
Stop at Ross’s Landing Pier and board the Chattanooga Cycleboat, a unique 14-passenge vessel and the newest way to experience the beautiful Tennessee River or venture to Lookout Mountain for timeless fun at Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls, and Incline Railway, paired with a ride on  the Tennessee Valley Railroad.

Take a walk on the wild side to meet several new animals at the Chattanooga Zoo, including a snow leopard, a viper and seven chimpanzees or spend a night sleeping under a ceiling of sharks and stingrays at the Tennessee Aquarium.

·         Christmas Music in Chattanooga
·         Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights
·         Ice on the Landing at the Choo Choo Gardens

Highlights of the winter holidays in Philadelphia

12/8/2016

PHILADELPHIA, November 21, 2016 – Holiday tradition runs deep in Philadelphia, home of the new Philly Holiday Festival (seven weeks of citywide celebration) and the Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package, offering overnight guests at 38 hotels free parking, two tickets to Jurassic World: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute and more perks, bookable at visitphilly.com.

Here are some highlights of the winter holidays in Philadelphia:
Christmas traditions:

Thanksgiving Day Parade – Christmas kicks off in this band- and balloon-filled circa 1910 procession, sponsored by 6ABC and Dunkin Donuts. November 24. 20th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard to Eakins Oval on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 6abc.com/parade
Christmas Village – Philadelphia City Hall transforms into holiday central, adding to its grounds a German-style market with live entertainment.In adjacent Dilworth Park, there’s a new setup for the live, 38-foot Christmas tree (lighting November 26), Rothman Institute Ice Rink and cabin, a new-this-year planted Wintergarten, and the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Marketof local artists, crafters, designers and food vendors.ChristmasVillage and Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market open throughDecember 24. 15th and Market Streets. Christmas Village, (215) 268-7606, philachristmas.com; Holiday Market, dilworthpark.org
The Comcast Holiday Spectacular – One of the world’s highest resolution LED displays combines projections from Pennsylvania Ballet’s The Nutcracker and a magical sleigh with a sing-along in 15 minutes of fun. Daily, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (except 5 p.m. on weekdays), November 24-January 1. 17th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard, visitphilly.com
Christmas Light Show – The Grand Court of the historic Wanamaker building—now Macy’s—offers this free exhibition of dancing lights set to the famed Wanamaker Organ. Performances every two hours during store hours. November 25-December 31. 1300 Market Street, (215) 241-9000, wanamakerorgan.com

Outdoor fun:

Franklin Square Holiday Festival – Amid 50,000 lights ofthe Electrical Spectacle, park-goers visit Santa, ride a carousel and miniature train, mini golf and snack. Through December 31. Franklin Square, 6th & Race Streets, (215) 629-4026, historicphiladelphia.org
A Longwood Christmas – Thousands of poinsettias, Christmas trees and flowers transform a heated four-acre Conservatory; 500,000 lights glitter in trees; fountains dance to music. November 24-January 8. 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
Penn’s Landing Winterfest – Winter wonderland along the Delaware River features fire pits, cozy cabanas, artisan vendors, a game room, a chalet-style lodge—surrounding a regulation skating rink with a view of the Ben Franklin Bridge. Sponsored by Blue Cross. Opens November 25; tree lighting, December 2. Columbus Boulevard at Market Street, (215) 925-7465, riverrink.com

New Year celebrations:

New Year’s Eve Fireworks – SugarHouse’s annual pyrotechnics blast—in two shows—over the Delaware River, at 6 p.m. and at midnight. The RiverRink hosts Holiday Parties on Ice with entertainment, favors, outdoor seating and great views. December 31. Columbus Boulevard at Market Street, (215) 925-7465, delawareriverwaterfront.com
Mummers Parade – Circa 1901 procession along Broad Street features feathers and sequins, music and merriment from City Hall to Washington Avenue. Indoors, clubs perform fantastical routines at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in the Fancy Brigade Finale. Tickets for bleacher seating at City Hall and for the Fancy Brigades available at the Independence Visitor Center, 6th & Market Streets, (215) 965-7676, phlvisitorcenter.com

VISIT PHILADELPHIA® is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy.

On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website and blog, visitphilly.com and uwishunu.com, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages.

Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools.

Along with Visit Philly social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers.

Travelers can also call and stop into the Independence Visitor Center for additional information and tickets.

Enjoy Ho-ho-ho-liday Fun in Greater Williamsburg

12/8/2016

Enjoy Ho-ho-ho-liday Fun in Greater Williamsburg

Discover Williamsburg During the Most Wonderful Time of the Year with Festivities for the Whole Family – Santa (and Benjamin Franklin) Approved!

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – Dec. 2, 2016 – Ice skating. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Santa Claus. Christmas tree lightings. And so much more. Holidays in the Greater Williamsburg area go beyond being just dates on the calendar, they're an opportunity to have loads of fun and create lasting memories with friends or family.

Visit during this magical time and revel in the season. Here are some experiences guaranteed to keep you jolly until the new year. Special room rates and packages are available for these, and many other holiday events in Greater Williamsburg. For more information, or to reserve your stay, visit www.visitwilliamsburg.com/christmas-vacation-deals-packages.

Strap on the Skates and Glide
Take to the ice at Colonial Williamsburg's winter wonderland at Liberty's Ice Pavilion. The rink is open for the season. Skate Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. There will also be caroling at the rink on Dec. 9, 16, and 23 at 6 p.m.

Have a Blast at Busch Gardens Christmas Town
The smell of Christmas trees, and the largest light display in North America, are a holiday feast for the senses that announces Christmas is here at Busch Gardens Christmas Town. Along with the 8 million dazzling lights are newcomers to the festive party, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Sesame Street Forest of Fun – for the kid in everyone. You also won’t want to miss one of the six holiday shows daily, including ‘Twas That Night,” an ice show featuring world champion Elvis Stojko that reimagines the classic poem A Visit From St. Nicholas on select dates through Jan. 2. And don’t forget to check out the stunning Scottish countryside setting for a stable of family-friendly animals including Scottish blackface sheep, Border collies, and, of course, the famous Clydesdales. What could be more enchanting than petting beautiful animals under a starry winter sky?

Shop, Gawk, and Celebrate at Yankee Candle Village
If Christmas is celebrated all year round at Yankee Candle Village, imagine what December is like. With more than 40,000 square feet of interactive shopping and fun, linger here, wrapped in the warmth of the season. Stroll through the Holiday Park with more than 40,000 ornaments and 400,000 candles. Enjoy original animated musical entertainment and other activities. Say “hi” to Santa. And don't miss the tree lighting on Dec. 3 and 4.

Watch Lights Dancing on the River and Revel in the Yorktown Christmas Tree Lighting
Join in the 20th anniversary Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade, with caroling and hot cider around the beach bonfire, as decorated motorboats, sailboats, and Chesapeake deadrise workboats parade on the York River at 7 p.m. on Dec. 3. Then, on Dec. 6, watch your kids’ eyes light up at the Yorktown Christmas Tree Lighting, a tradition since 1945. Tap along to The Fifes and Drums of Yorktown at the Victory Monument, listen to festive music at Riverwalk Landing, and follow the procession of lights through the historic village welcoming the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Have Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a child-friendly breakfast on the water at the Riverwalk Restaurant in Yorktown and relive the wonder of the season as kids relay their Christmas wish list to the merry one. Tickets are required. Dec. 10 at 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Live an Authentic Colonial Christmas
For the month of December, become part of centuries-old holiday traditions at the Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum in Yorktown. At Jamestown, programs and a film will compare and contrast English Christmas customs of the time with how they were observed in the difficult early years of the first permanent English settlement. At the American Revolution Museum, listen to stories about military encampments and watch holiday preparations on a Revolution-period farm. Visitors to the Continental Army encampment can assist the quartermaster in preparing military supplies and observe artillery demonstrations.

Trill to the Grand Illumination
There are plenty of ways to celebrate the magic and history of Christmas in Colonial Williamsburg. On Dec. 4, grab a blanket and head over for the finest fireworks display of the season with live music from multiple stages – a very Colonial way to celebrate; participate in spreading holiday cheer and join carolers enjoying coffee, tea or velvety hot chocolate prepared in the 18th-century way on the porch of R. Charlton’s Coffeehouse starting at 6 p.m. on Dec. 11, 15, 18 and 22; or attend a special reading of The Night Before Christmas on Dec. 24, and learn about the first Christmas tree in the United States as you sing along to classic Christmas carols and watch the lighting of the tree in Market Square.

Get out and Frolic in Nature (Bugs, Optional)
Round up the kids for a free, guided walk on the new Freedom Park nature trail in Williamsburg, which departs every 30 minutes between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Dec. 3. Stop to examine plants, wildlife, insects, and more along the multi-use trail winding through historical sites and forests as well as along creeks and open meadows.

Spend an Evening with Charles Dickens (or at Least with his Great-Great-Grandson)
Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without Scrooge and Tiny Tim. At the Williamsburg Inn, Gerald Charles Dickens, great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, will present a retelling of the classic A Christmas Carol during an elegant banquet featuring world-class cuisine. Reservations are a must. Dec. 13 and 14.

Watch Classic Christmas Cartoons in the Square (Hello, Charlie Brown!)
The Blue Talon Bistro will host Toons in the Square on Dec. 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., featuring "A Charlie Brown Christmas," “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," and "Frosty the Snowman” on Duke of Gloucester Street in Merchants Square. Wythe Candies will be distributing goodies to the first 100 children.

Live it up at First Night Williamsburg
First Night Williamsburg dawns on New Year's Eve. More than just a night, it's really an afternoon and evening extravaganza of family-oriented, alcohol-free fun presented throughout Williamsburg and on the campus of the College of William & Mary. Music ranges from classical and rock to jazz and the blues; food ranges from burgers and BBQ to key lime pie. And, of course, there are fireworks, not once, but twice, first as part of the children’s show, which ends at 7 p.m., and then again at midnight. Magicians, storytellers, puppeteers, jugglers and clowns round out the nonstop fun.

For additional information on these and other events happenings around Greater Williamsburg, please visit www.visitwilliamsburg.com.

THE BEGINNING OF THE FESTIVE HOLIDAY SEASON AT THE LAKE OF THE OZARKS

12/8/2016

THE BEGINNING OF THE FESTIVE HOLIDAY SEASON AT THE LAKE OF THE OZARKS

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, MO - Families looking to make their holiday season a little more memorable need to look no further than Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks. The "Best Recreational Lake" in the Nation has for years been a special holiday destination during the yuletide season with spectacular light displays, entertaining musical shows, superb shopping, delectable dining and other unique events and it all begins in late November with Thanksgiving.

Several Lake of the Ozarks restaurants and resorts are offering full-blown Thanksgiving meals for their guests.

Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together and celebrate and cherish the ones they love and the things for which they are thankful. Those who can't get enough of the robust flavors of traditional Thanksgiving dinners, but don't necessarily have the time or patience for all that cooking or the desire to deal with the dreaded clean up afterward, will appreciate that several of the most popular Lake of the Ozarks restaurants and resorts offer full-blown Thanksgiving meals. J. Bruner's Restaurant (5166 Osage Beach Parkway in Osage Beach) offers diners a savory menu of roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry salad, candied yams and delectable desserts. H. Toad's Bar & Grill at Camden on the Lake Resort and Marina (2325 Bittersweet Road, Lake Ozark), The Inn at Grand Glaize (5142 Osage Beach Parkway in Osage Beach), HK's Restaurant at The Lodge of Four Seasons(315 Four Seasons Road in Lake Ozark), The Trophy Room at Old Kinderhook (58 Club Place in Camdenton) and Tan-Tar-A Resort (494 Tan Tar A Drive in Osage Beach) are offering Thanksgiving buffets with all the trimmings for their guests. For more details on the menu and hours of the Thanksgiving dinners at J. Bruners, visit www.JBruners.com; for H. Toad's at Camden on the Lake, check out www.HToads.com; for the Inn at Grand Glaize, visit www.InnAtGrandGlaize.com; for The Lodge of Four Seasons, go to www.4SeasonsResort.com; for Old Kinderhook, visit www.OldKinderhook.com and for Tan-Tar-A Resort, head to www.Tan-Tar-A.com.

Tan-Tar-A will also offer many activities throughout the long weekend, including a bonfire, sing-alongs, visits with Santa and his elves, a comedic magic show, the lighting of the resort's holiday lights and more on Thursday. Friday, shoppers can take advantage of Tan-Tar-A's Black Friday deals in its various retail stores located on the property and younger guests can enjoy a Duck Drop race at Timberfalls, the Lake's only indoor waterpark, also on property.

Horse-drawn carriage rides will be offered during
Old Kinderhook's Christmas Village, Fridays through Sundays, November 26 through Christmas.
Thanksgiving weekend also officially marks the beginning of the holiday season at Old Kinderhook. The resort's annual Christmas Village opens on Saturday, Nov. 26, featuring visits from Mister and Missus Claus and their merrymakers, carolers, ginger bread house-making stations, horse-drawn carriage rides and more. The Christmas Village will take place every weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) until Christmas. The Ice at Old Kinderhook, the Lake's only outdoor ice skating rink, will also be open for the season for casual holiday skating sessions and a "pond hockey" league. The hours for The Ice are 4-10 p.m. on weekdays and 1-10 p.m. on weekends. Skating lessons are also available the week of December 26. For more details, visit www.OldKinderhook.com.

In 2015, the Enchanted Village of Lights in Laurie attracted nearly 20,000 visitors to city's fairgrounds.

The Lake area's three drive-through holiday light parks will also be open for the season on Thanksgiving. The Enchanted Village of Lights, the largest light park in Mid-Missouri, is spread over 27 acres of the fairgrounds in Laurie and is open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on weekdays and until 10 p.m. on weekends. Also in Laurie is the Festival of Lights at St. Patrick's Shrine. The Festival of Lights is open from 6-10 p.m. And, the Unity Circle of Lights in Versailles is open from dark until midnight. Admission to all three light parks is free, but donations are welcome. For more information about the light parks, visit LakeHolidayLights.com.

In Osage Beach, the city park and many businesses along Osage Beach Parkway will be dressed up in the holiday spirit from November 26 through December 31. Also at the city park, children of all ages can meet Santa Claus from 3-5 p.m. on December 19. For more information, visit www.OsageBeach.org.

Enjoy a holiday dinner cruise with live entertainment on The Celebration luxury yacht during the annual Deck the Docks benefit for the Dogwood Animal Shelter.
Other festive events and activities around the Lake include the Deck the Docksholiday lights dinner cruises on The Celebration motor yacht from November 25 though December 30. Visitors can take in the spectacular sights of lakefront homes and boat docks decked out in decorations and lights while enjoying a delicious dinner and live musical entertainment on this 100-plus passenger luxury yacht. The Deck the Docks cruises begin boarding at 5:30 p.m. at 5085 Davis Drive in Osage Beach and are on the water from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Proceeds from these holiday dinner cruises go to benefit the Dogwood Animal Shelter. For additional details on different cruises, prices or how to book a reservation, visit www.CruiseLakeOfTheOzarks.com.

The Steps Dance Studio presents the 17th annual performance of The Nutcracker Ballet November 26 and 27 in the Cummings Auditorium at the School of the Osage.
On November 26, beginning at 6 p.m., visitors can watch a procession of fun floats decked out in lights during the 15th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade in Laurie. The Lake of the Ozarks' Steps Dance Studio presents its 17th annual performance of the world-famous Nutcracker Balleton November 26 and 27 in the Cummings Auditorium at the School of the Osage in Osage Beach. This take on the classic Christmas tale features colorful and elaborate costumes and sets as well as young local dancers ages three through 17 performing alongside professionals from the community. The City of Versailles' "Olde Fashioned Christmas on the Square," which takes place from 4-8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3 in its historic downtown, features many craft and food vendors, live choir performances, horse-drawn carriage rides and a visit from Old Saint Nick. Additionally, the city of Lake Ozark hosts its 32nd annual "Christmas Magic" parade Saturday, Dec. 10. The parade route winds along the historic Bagnell Dam Boulevard. Afterward, children will have the opportunity to visit with Santa and receive a free stocking stuffed with goodies from the merrymaker himself. For more information on these and other holiday events around the Lake, visit the event calendar at www.FunLake.com.

Carols, comedy and a talented cast make the Christmas on Main Street show a popular holiday tradition at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Another longstanding Lake of the Ozarks holiday tradition is the popular and entertaining musical variety show, Christmas on Main Street, at the Main Street Music Hall at the Landing in Osage Beach. Holiday carols, gospel hymns, musical impersonations and comedy are all included in a great seasonal show offered by the cast of talented singers and musicians of the Music Hall family. The Christmas on Main Street show kicks off on Friday, Nov. 25 and runs through Sunday, Dec. 18. Evening shows start at 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and there's a 3 p.m. matinee show on Sundays. For more information, including show dates, times and ticket prices, or to make reservations, call the Main Street Music Hall box office at 800-348-9501 or visit www.LakeMusicHall.com.

Another opportunity to enjoy live holiday music includes the Lake Area Community Orchestra's annual Winter Concert Series. The 2016 program, called "Syncopated Clocks" and directed by Rose Adams, features many Lake-area musicians and takes place November 27, 29, December 4, 6, 11 and 13 at various venues around the Lake of the Ozarks. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. For details on the Winter Concert Series, visit www.LakeAreaCommunityOrchestra.org.

The Lake of the Ozarks also is an ideal destination for marking items off Christmas gift lists of any length. The Lake is home to Osage Beach Premium Outlets, the largest brand-name factory outlet mall in Missouri, and The Landing on Main Street, a beautiful Victorian-themed village with over 20 boutique shops offering everything from home decor to chic clothing, kitschy souvenirs to homemade confections. There are also many antique shops around the Lake area and many unique shops and boutiques along the historic Bagnell Dam Strip in Lake Ozark. And, to make the deals even sweeter, many of the Lake area lodging properties offer "Shop and Stay" or "Shop 'til You Drop" packages that include coupon books to the outlet mall worth hundreds of dollars in savings. Some lodging properties even throw in a pre-paid gift card for up to $50 for the outlet mall. For more information about shopping at the Lake, click on the "shopping" tab at www.FunLake.com.

Many Lake-area accommodations get dressed up for the holidays and offer special money-saving deals for their guests. Pictured is the Hearth Room at Old Kinderhook.
Some of the most memorable holiday traditions at the Lake of the Ozarks revolve around spending quality time with family and friends in a warm and relaxed setting that has all the comforts of home. Visitors can easily find the perfect accommodations for groups and families of all sizes. Accommodations at the Lake include resorts, cabins, condos, vacation homes, hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and RV parks. And, with special winter and holiday lodging rates, travelers can save as much as 40 percent off in-season rates. For all the different lodging options available around the Lake, click on the "Places to Stay" tab at www.FunLake.com.

Visitors can also ring in the New Year in style at the Lake of the Ozarks. Camden on the Lake, The Inn at Grand Glaize, The Lodge of Four Seasons, Old Kinderhook and Tan-Tar-A Resort, just to name a few, are offering special New Year's Eve dinners, events and specials and there will be Lake-wide fireworks displays at the stroke of midnight on January 1.

For complete details on all the holiday events, seasonal attractions, as well as options for dining and lodging at the "Best Recreational Lake in the Nation," Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks, visit the Convention and Visitor Bureau's award-winning website at www.FunLake.com.

Seven Walt Disney World Resort Offering Appealing “Holiday Rates”

12/8/2016

Seven Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels in The Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida Offering Appealing “Holiday Rates” In November & December

… Special rates provide a great way to take in such events as
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Holidays Around the World
and Candlelight Processional at Epcot®, and to experience
the reimagined and transformed Disney SpringsTM and its many new offerings

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL (November 2016) – There is still time to make plans to experience the special events being conducted in the Walt Disney World® Resort in Central Florida in November and December, such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom® Park, and Holidays Around The World along with the Candlelight Processional at Epcot®. It is also the ideal time to check out the dramatically transformed Disney SpringsTM area, formerly known as the Downtown Disney® Area. Inspired by Florida’s charming towns and natural beauty, the vibrant new waterfront Disney SpringsTM offers a high-quality diverse mix of shops, an impressive variety of new upscale and casual dining options, and exceptional live entertainment options, with more than 150 establishments across its four distinct outdoor neighborhoods.

A great way to experience these events and Disney SpringsTM is by taking advantage of the special “Holiday Rates” that are being offered by the seven Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels for stays from November 9-December 22, 2016. Featuring an ideal location in the Walt Disney World® Resort, these seven Official Walt Disney World® Hotels are within an easy walk to the significantly expanded Disney SpringsTM. In addition to featuring an ideal location at an outstanding value, the seven Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels also provide shuttle transportation every 30 minutes to all four Walt Disney World®Theme Parks, two water parks, and at night to the Disney SpringsTM area.

The special rates also provide the opportunity to take in such exciting new offerings at the Walt Disney World® Resort as Star WarsTM Launch Bay and Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®; Frozen Ever After and Soarin’ Around The World at Epcot®; Kilimanjaro Safaris® for a full day to night experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park; and Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire stage show at Magic Kingdom® Park.

Plus, as a bonus, guests at these hotels also receive the “2016 Disney SpringsTM Passport” booklet that features exclusive discounts and specials from Disney SpringsTM merchants on entertainment, shopping and dining. Among the coupons featured in the booklet are discounts and special offers at Splitsville Luxury LanesTM, House of Blues® Restaurant, Ghirardelli® Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop, STK Orlando, and Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea.

The Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels’ “Holiday Rates” for stays November 9-December 22, 2016 are:
·         B Resort & Spa – 30% off best rate
·         Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel – 3rd Night Free, with rates from $89 per room, per night. Also, “Kids Eat Free” at the hotel (valid for one child 10 and under per paying adult).
·         DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – Orlando Lake Buena Vista -- rates from $119 per suite, per night
·         Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace – rates from $109 per room, per night
·         Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – rates from $95 per room, per night
·         Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World® Resort – rates from $99 per room, per night
·         Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney SpringsTM Resort Area – rates from $72 per room, per night.

For more information on the special hotel rates, or to make a reservation, visit DisneySpringsHotels.com, specifically disneyspringshotels.com/special-offers/limited-offers/holiday-sale/ (or http://bit.ly/dsrah2016 ). The special rates are available for stays November 9-December 22, 2016, based on availability. Some blackout dates may apply, and availability may be limited. The rates do not include the Resort Services Fee or daily parking fee (if applicable), taxes or gratuities. The offer is not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations, or for groups.

Visiting provides the opportunity to take in such special events as:
·         Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – November 7-December 22, 2016 at Magic Kingdom® Park
·         Holidays at Disney SpringsTM – November 11, 2016-January 8, 2017 at Disney SpringsTM
·         Holidays Around the World – November 25-December 30, 2016 at Epcot®
·         Candlelight Processional – November 25-December 30, 2016 at Epcot®.
Note that Theme Park admission is required, and some events require a separately priced ticket.

Other benefits of staying at one of the seven Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels include:
·         The ability to purchase Disney Theme Park admissions at each hotel
·         Advance tee times and discounts at all Walt Disney World® Resort golf courses
·         Disney Merchandise store located in each hotel
·         The ability to book advance dining and dinner show reservations for all restaurants across the Walt Disney World®Resort.

The reimagined Disney SpringsTM area overflows with the sights, sounds and flavors that come together in a beautiful outdoor environment with a charming waterfront setting. Set amid beautiful open-air promenades and bubbling springs, this vibrant destination features four distinct outdoor neighborhoods: The Landing, Town Center, Marketplace, and West Side.

Among the many new offerings that are open at Disney SpringsTM are such outstanding retail tenants as   kate spade new york, Vera Bradley, Tommy Bahama, PANDORA, Under Armour Brand House, ALEX AND ANI, Sephora, UGG, TROPHY ROOM, and MAC Cosmetics.

In addition, Disney SpringsTM features such new specialty dining locations as Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless’ Frontera Cocina, renowned Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming, Amorette’s Patisserie, STK Orlando, B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co., D-Luxe Burger, Morimoto Asia Street Food, Sprinkles (cupcake bakery), The Daily Poutine, YeSake, and Aristocrepes.

Among the other appealing offerings which opened during the past year are the Indiana Jones-themed Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, The Ganachery chocolate shop, Vivoli Il Gelato (serving Italian gelato like its sister shop in Florence, Italy), Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC (which specializes in gluten-free and vegan baked goods), and Exposition Park (the home to Disney-owned food trucks, with delicious offerings from each of the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks).

Plus, there are two new parking garages with a total of 6,000 spaces, and the new Village Causeway, which provides guests another path of travel through the area. In addition a pedestrian bridge from the Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels to the Disney SpringsTM area is now available, making it even easier for guests.

Among the many other offerings open at Disney SpringsTM are:  World of Disney store, AMC Movies at Disney Springs 24, The Art of Disney, The LEGO® Store, Build-A-Dino® by Build-A-Bear Workshop®, Disney Design-A-Tee, Disney’s Candy Cauldron, Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories, Once Upon a Toy, Orlando Harley-Davidson (apparel and accessories), Steve Baker Caricatures, Pearl Factory, Starbucks® at Disney Springs Marketplace, and Shop for Ireland.

Disney SpringsTM Resort Area Hotels (DisneySpringsHotels.com) is a consortium of seven Official Walt Disney World® Hotels that includes:
·         B Resort & Spa -- the stylish resort opened in June 2014 with 394 newly renovated guest rooms, the full-service B Indulged® AVEDA Spa, and features American Kitchen Bar & Grill
·         Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel – the 18-story, 325-room resort overlooks scenic Lake Buena Vista and the Walt Disney World® Resort, and offers two restaurants, lounge, and wireless internet
·         DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – Orlando Lake Buena Vista -- the luxurious and recently renovated resort hotel features 229 spacious suites, and is the only all-suite resort hotel in the Disney SpringsTM Resort Area
·         Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace (formerly known as the Buena Vista Palace) – situated on 27 lush acres just steps from the Disney SpringsTM Area, the 27-story hotel just completed an extensive multi-million-dollar renovation, and features a Character Breakfast every Sunday
·         Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – the closest hotel to Disney SpringsTM, the resort offers two pools, a Disney Character Breakfast each Sunday, seven restaurants and lounges (including Benihana® Steakhouse), and 24-hour fitness center
·         Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World® Resort -- offers the ideal setting to stay, meet and play, featuring modern Florida décor and no resort fees
·         Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney SpringsTM Resort Area -- featuring Disney Character Breakfast 3 days a week, 394 comfortable guest rooms, six dining options, and the Oasis Aquatic Pool Playground with interactive water features.

With nearly 30 food and beverage outlets and restaurants, over 3,700 rooms and an array of amenities, the Disney SpringsTMResort Area Hotels offer a rate, space and menu to please every guest. Located in the heart of the Disney SpringsTM area, these properties are within walking distance of exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment venues. Visit DisneySpringsHotels.com .