#christmas Archives - The Hotel Guide

Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens Unveils Enchanting Holiday Display

Publisher — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 20:19:46 +0000

Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens invites guests to immerse themselves in the nostalgic magic of the season with this year’s holiday display, ‘Twas, now through January 4. Inspired by the classic poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore, ‘Twas unfolds through a series of sentimental scenes celebrating the spirit of generosity, tradition and family bonds, bringing visitors back to cherished holiday memories.

Imagined by designer Ed Libby and brought to life by Bellagio’s Horticulture team, the Conservatory display combines breathtaking floral arrangements and festive décor to bring the enchanting story to life, transporting guests into a beloved holiday dream. Adding to the experience, the Peppermint Express returns, serving delicious treats baked by Bellagio’s talented pastry chefs.

“This year’s theme offered us a special opportunity to create an experience that brings out the nostalgia of the holidays,” said Libby. “By blending iconic holiday elements with a comforting, dream-like atmosphere, we’ve crafted a display that even the most sophisticated adults can enjoy with childlike wonder. I feel this is our most traditional, quintessential holiday Conservatory ever – it’s designed to evoke warmth, joy and the unmistakable spirit and emotions of the season.”

West Bed
At the heart of the West Bed, an impressive 45-foot holiday tree towers above the scenery crowned with a glistening Swarovski star, dressed in over 35,000 mini-LED lights and covered with 8,700 ornaments. The awe-inspiring fir from Burney, California commands attention while the Peppermint Express miniature train chugs merrily around its trunk. Nearby screens feature a special ground-view feed of the train’s journey, immersing visitors into the scene. To the right of the bed, a stunning gingerbread house is lit from within, decorated with ruby red hearts, snow-like icing and the signature Bellagio “B,” complete with smoke escaping from its chimney and elves adding finishing touches. A vintage-style carousel invites guests to reminisce, with its handcrafted regal horses and ornate canopy adorned in red, green and gold embellishments. Oversized ornaments and vibrant poinsettias blanketing the ground, while trees of all sizes sparkle with lights and decorations, adding to the display’s holiday grandeur.

North Bed
At the center of the North Bed, whimsical stockings hang above a crackling fireplace, each filled with surprises for eager children. The gentle tick of an elaborate timepiece builds anticipation for the excitement of Christmas morning. On the left of the bed, a magnificent crimson sack overflows with handcrafted toys, while an elf playfully rides a wooden rocking horse nearby. A timeless scroll bearing the story behind ‘Twas leans against a stack of oversized gifts on the right, adding to the display’s nostalgic charm. Across the bed, poinsettias and holiday trees decorated by skilled elves bring seasonal warmth, while chandeliers and candlelit sconces hang above. Enchanting LED screens display winter scenes set to a bespoke holiday soundtrack, accompanied by the scent of a Sugar Plum Fairy-scented candle, available for guests to purchase as a keepsake from the Giardini Garden Store.

East Bed
The East Bed features a striking, gilded sleigh pulled by two elegantly dressed reindeer made of botanical elements. Perched atop a mountain of beautifully wrapped presents, an adventurous elf awaits, ready to embark on a journey delivering joy across the globe. Visitors can stroll along a walking path winding through the magical scene, lined with red poinsettias and a snow-covered railing, discovering the intricate details that make this display a true work of art. A floral sculpture of pinecones, holly berry and tree branches soar above the glimmering holiday trees and botanicals below.

South Bed
The grand Bellagio bear, Drum Major Dolly, proudly shines as the star of the South Bed. Dressed in her ceremonial red uniform with gold shoulder tassels, Dolly radiates cheer as she plays along to the beat of the season’s melodies. Two spectacular chandeliers glow softly overhead, representing the exquisite craftsmanship of the display. To the left, a dedicated elf scales a ladder, adding finishing touches to this collaborative masterpiece by Bellagio’s Horticulture team. The vibrant red and white poinsettias, larger-than-life ornaments and snowy trees enhance the bed, signifying hope, love and prosperity.

Peppermint Express
Guests craving a festive refreshment can visit the Peppermint Express pop-up to enjoy holiday-inspired offerings created by the Bellagio Pastry Team. Assorted treats and beverages are available for purchase in the Conservatory alcove behind the South Bed across the OMEGA Boutique from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily. After Thanksgiving, hours will extend from 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. Menu items include holiday cookies, peppermint meringue, chocolate candies, holiday nougat, popcorn, drip coffee and hot chocolate.

Sustainability at the Conservatory
Water used in Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens comes from on-site underground wells that use rain and recycled water from the resort, avoiding the use of municipal potable water. The water in the Conservatory is also recycled throughout the exhibit and reused at the resort. Bellagio’s water conservation efforts are part of MGM Resorts International’s overall sustainability commitment.

At the conclusion of each display, plants and botanical material without remaining viable life are separated for collection by a local composting facility. The organic waste is made into compost products to help improve the environment. This method of recycling keeps thousands of pounds of waste out of local landfills and turns it into something that improves the region’s soil, air and water quality.

‘Twas 2024 Holiday Display by the Numbers

110,000: Energy-efficient light bulbs on the trees
20,000: Poinsettias throughout the display
7,500: Preserved red and black roses on Drum Major Dolly
8,700: Ornaments on the holiday tree
1,000: Red feathers on Drum Major Dolly’s cap
80: Team members who bring the display to life
45-foot: Holiday tree at the center of the display
41: Fresh-cut Silvertip trees throughout the display
6: Days to complete the change out
3: Carousel horses spinning in the West Bed
2: Larger than life reindeer
1: Swarovski crystal star topping the holiday tree

Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is complimentary and open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Blue Waters Resort and Spa Embraces the Holiday Season

Publisher — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:59:51 +0000

Embrace the spirit of the season at Blue Waters Resort and Spa, where joy and festivities come alive. Join Blue Waters for a series of enchanting holiday events that promise to create lasting memories for guests and their loved ones. These festive events run from December 18^th to January 1^st and are meant to bring friends and families together for the magical season. Enjoy activities like carol singing, meeting Santa on the beach, a Christmas lunch, and a NYE Extravaganza. Please see more details on these exciting happening below.

CAROL SINGING at Pelican Bar (December 18^th, 6pm-7pm)

Immerse in festive cheer and gather around at the Pelican bar for a delightful evening of carol singing. From Caribbean classics to international favorites like “Here Comes Santa Clause”, guests are invited to enjoy a variety of songs while sipping on cocktails and savoring delectable canapes. Mark the beginning of the holiday season by witnessing the magical lighting of the Blue Waters Christmas tree.

SANTA ON THE BEACH (December 25^th, 10am)

Give the gift of magic and experience this special treat for the little ones. After breakfast, families and children are invited to watch Santa arrive on Blue Waters beach via his holiday jet ski. Kids can then follow Santa on his exciting journey to distribute presents and gifts to all the children.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH & LIVE STEEL BAND at the Palm Restaurant (December 25^th, 12:30 – 2:30pm)

Indulge in a mouthwatering Christmas lunch at The Palm restaurant, accompanied by the enchanting melodies of a live steel band. Delight one’s taste buds with a delectable spread and let the soothing tunes create the perfect ambiance for a festive feast. Enjoy the carving station with roasted turkey and suckling pig, hot entrees that include locally caught red snapper, a live pasta making station, and assorted cakes and pastries.

NYE EXTRAVAGANZA – Countdown to New Year & Fireworks Display (December 31^st, 7pm)

Bid farewell to the 2023 year in style by joining Blue Waters for a spectacular New Year’s Eve extravaganza. Indulge in a diverse array of delectable foods while enjoying the countdown to the New Year. Once the clock strikes midnight, be captivated by a dazzling firework display that will light up the night sky and mark the beginning of 2024.

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Clarksville, Tennessee: Experience a Cheerful Christmas Season

Publisher — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 18:45:33 +0000

Sleigh bells ring. Are you listening? It is getting to be that special time of year again – Christmas in Clarksville. Holiday travelers can experience the charm and magic of this historic riverfront town with all the holiday happenings, seasonal sips and treats, and festive affairs. The halls will be decked, and the city ready to welcome guests no matter how one chooses to celebrate during their visit this holiday season.
Celebrate With Lights
Christmas on the Cumberland, a favorite among Clarksville locals, illuminates nearly one mile of the RiverWalk along McGregor Park with displays of over one million lights. The lights will be up through January 2. Special nights will be hosted throughout the season, including visits with Santa.
Drive-Thru Christmas Lights at the Clarksville Speedway allows visitors to enjoy over 3 million Christmas lights from the comfort and warmth of their car. Every night offers a different discount, so guests are encouraged to check the website before planning their visit. The experience is open now through January 1.
The annual Lighted Christmas Parade returns to Historic Downtown Clarksville on December 3. Spectators can head to the Downtown Commons during the afternoon for Spiritfest and the Christmas Tree Lighting before enjoying the parade.
Celebrate With History
An 1860s Tennessee Christmas at Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement allows visitors to experience the holiday season through the eyes of a pioneer family in the 1800s. Attendees will be immersed in the experience by partaking in refreshments, crafting Christmas decorations, hearing stories by the fireside, interacting with Santas from different eras, and caroling throughout the property. The event will be on December 4.
A 19th-Century Christmas at Fort Defiance gives guests a glimpse into the holiday celebrations of a Civil War soldier through re-enactors, caroling, eggnog, cakes, tree decorating, and a 19th-century Santa reading The Night Before Christmas. The event will be on December 10.
Celebrate With the Arts
Talent from across the nation will grace the Roxy Regional Theatre’s stage during its White Christmas showings. Performances begin at the end of November and end on December 23.

The Gateway Chamber Orchestra’s unique take on the Nutcracker ballet will feature an orchestra and a jazz band alternating scores with traditional and contemporary arrangements, plus several ballet dancers. Families are invited to attend the Sugar Plum Party after the Sunday performance of the ballet to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and friends and receive a small gift and treat.
Red River Breeze, Clarksville’s acoustic Celtic band, will perform traditional holiday tunes and carols during their production ‘Tis the Season. The performance will be at the Roxy Regional Theatre.
Celebrate With Holiday Shopping
The annual German Christmas Market will be both indoors and outdoors this year. Shoppers will find a wide selection of unique, handmade craftspeople along with authentic German food.
The Customs House Museum and Cultural Center is hosting Noel Night during December’s First Thursday Art Walk. The event will feature holiday treats, live music, a children’s craft, a special guest from the North Pole, and discounts on purchases made in Seasons: The Museum Store.

The Downtown Commons Holiday Market is returning for its second year with local vendors, food trucks, and a special visit from Santa Claus in this full-block urban park.
Visitors can see the full calendar of seasonal events at www.visitclarksvilletn.com/Christmas.

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Boerne, Texas – Enjoy a Truly Magical Holiday Season

Publisher — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 19:07:25 +0000

Dickens on Main & Hill Country Mile Holiday Fun
Join us for a magical holiday season in downtown Boerne filled with small-town holiday fun. Stroll Main Street and take in the holiday lights. Enjoy live entertainment, food, and shopping at Dickens on Main Thanksgiving weekend. Over the first weekend in December, “Weihnacht’s Weekend,” enjoy the annual Weihnachts Parade and Stocking Stroll.
The fun continues with two more unique weekends of fun including Toast of Olde Town, perfect for a holiday date night including wassail tastings, and Kinder Fest, filled with fun surprises for the whole family! The holidays are full of excitement in Boerne.
Enjoy the Sounds of the Season
Nothing says Christmas quite like familiar carols and bell choirs. The Cave Without a Name’s annual Sounds of the Season concert is a favorite holiday tradition for many. Enjoy Tinsel – an a’cappella quartet – for sounds of the Christmas season with contemporary classics and beloved carols. Celebrate the Winter Solstice in the cave with music as well.
The Boerne Concert Band will be celebrating the season with their Christmas Concert featuring popular favorites and classics performed by bandmembers from all over the Texas Hill Country. Boerne Performing Arts will host their special Christmas event again this year with the internationally acclaimed quintet, Canadian Brass.
They will bring holiday cheer showcasing their virtuosity, spontaneity, and sense of jocularity with their Christmas classics
It’s not a concert, but the sights and sounds of the city of Bethlehem are brought to life during a Walk Through Bethlehem. The tour of the city will culminate at a live nativity, where all can sing in celebration of the arrival of the Christ child. First Baptist Church will present “Light Has Come”, a celebration with Christmas music. Catch one of three different performances.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
The perfect gift for everyone on your list can be found in Boerne! Whether it’s discovered while strolling through the quaint, independently owned shops and boutiques that line the Hill Country Mile or while treasure hunting at a shopping event like Diva Night, Boerne Market Days, Christmas Market Days, Boerne Handmade Market, the Boerne Fall Antiques Show, or Oma’s Christmas Craft Fair.
Twinkle Lights All-Around
Boerne shines this time of year. The Hill Country Mile is adorned with garland and is dripping with classic white twinkling lights. Head for the hills for an immersive lighting experience at not one but four special lighting events that last throughout the entire season.
Grab tickets for The Jones CHRISTmas Ranch, Christmas Lights at the Crumbling Castle or Old West Christmas Light Fest. Celebrate the season at First Baptist Church Boerne at Boerne Bright. Here is a helpful guide to some of these bright events and more around town!
For more information on all of their events, go to their website at www.visitboerne.org.

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St. Augustine Rings in the Holiday Season

Publisher — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 15:49:22 +0000

The holiday season in the Nation’s Oldest City, St. Augustine began with Nights of Lights. And there is even more for which to be grateful this year for the businesses and residents who have repeatedly bounced back after a challenging storm season.
“We reopened on Saturday with all but one exhibit intact…we thank our grounds crew and everyone who helped us to quickly and safely reopen the park,” said John Fraser, owner of Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archeological Park.
Charlie Robles, General Manager, The Collector Luxury Inn and Gardens said, “I will never cease to be amazed at the resiliency of St. Augustine. Within 24 hours after Nicole, the local hotels, shops and restaurants were up and running as if there was no storm at all!”
Nights of Lights has been listed among the top 10 holiday light displays in the world by National Geographic. During this festival of lights, downtown St. Augustine glows with holiday magic – from the ground to the rooftops, millions of tiny white lights create a festive holiday season atmosphere in the Nation’s Oldest City, and it’s free of charge.
“We are grateful for the actions of the businesses and the city and county governments following the storm to make our destination ready for the Holiday Season,” said Richard Goldman, President & CEO of St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau.
Nearly all tourism businesses on Florida’s Historic Coast are fully operational. To make planning for visits to Florida’s Historic Coast, the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau has published a list of open businesses.
For more information on events, activities, holiday getaways and vacation opportunities in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, go to the Visitors and Convention Bureau website at www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com.

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Oregon’s Adventure Coast – Holiday Delights Abound

Publisher — Mon, 09 Dec 2019 15:28:26 +0000

There is nothing more delightful than strolling through a lighted garden at Christmastime and there is no place brighter on the Oregon Coast to experience this than the annual Holiday Lights at Shore Acres State Park near Coos Bay.
Famous for its beautiful seven-acre botanical gardens and Japanese lily pond, Shore Acres shines with more than a quarter million lights, animated displays, Santa, choirs, and more from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve.
For 33 years, Shore Acres has been transformed into a glittering holiday wonderland that draws visitors from all over the United States and from around the world. What began as a modest holiday display organized by a handful of volunteers has grown into one of the most spectacular holiday lights displays on the West Coast, and it keeps getting bigger and better year after year.
The whimsical display features garden landscape lighting, 26 large holiday trees, and dozens of lighted sculptures including life-size whales, animated sea lions, an undersea garden, a leaping frog in the pond, and breaching dolphins. Volunteers with non-profit organizations serve hot cider, punch, coffee and cookies inside the Garden House as children await their turn to talk to Santa. High school and church choirs fill the gazebo with the sounds of the season as visitors stroll through the displays.
It is a holiday tradition for the whole family.
Gardens, Waves & Whales
Once the grand estate of pioneer timber baron Louis Simpson, Shore Acres State Park features lush botanical gardens with plants and flowers from all over the world. Roses, rhododendrons, daffodils, azaleas and more are abloom throughout the year, all surrounded by a forest of pines, firs, and evergreen shrubs.
Perched on top of 80-100 foot rugged sandstone cliffs, Shore Acres encompasses 745 acres of verdant coastal forests, dramatic cliffs, hiking trails, and a hidden beach cove. Where once sat the magnificent Simpson mansion now sits a fully enclosed observation building where visitors can view the wild ocean and migrating whales while being protected from the sometimes wet weather found on the Oregon coast.
Storm conditions out to sea can produce magnificent crashing waves. Shore Acres State Park is lauded as the best storm watching spot on the entire Oregon Coast. The beautifully natural hiking trails and rock wall along the cliffs allows for a safe distance above the waves to enjoy fantastic views. The term storm watching has more to do with the ocean conditions than the actual weather conditions. When conditions in the ocean create large swells, they translate into amazing wave action. A 15-20 foot swell will turn into a wave over 100 feet high, and swells of 25-35 feet create waves as high as 250-300 feet high. The roar of the ocean as it approaches the cliffs can be felt deep inside those lucky enough to be there. It is an experience visitors will never forget.
More Info
For more information on visiting Shore Acres during Holiday Lights, visit https://www.oregonsadventurecoast.com/event/33rd-annual-holiday-lights-at-shore-acres/

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Clarksville, TN: A Holiday Adventure

Publisher — Mon, 17 Dec 2018 05:24:04 +0000

A serene holiday glow warms many U.S. cities between Thanksgiving and the New Year, but Clarksville truly sparkles as millions of lights adorn the city’s Cumberland RiverWalk and downtown city center. Rediscover the magic of Christmas at these 12 family-friendly events.

HOLIDAY SEASON
   Kicking off the holiday season for Clarksville is the opening of Christmas on the Cumberland, on Tuesday, November 20. Over one million lights in captivating displays illuminate the half-mile walk along the river. Special crafts, dances, choirs and other activities will take plan on December 9 and 16. This free event has become a treasured tradition for residents throughout the region. Christmas on the Cumberland continues through Tuesday, January 1 and is open Sunday-Thursday from 5:00-10:00 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 5:00-11:00 p.m.
“MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET”
   “Miracle on 34th Street” opens on Thanksgiving evening, November 22, at the Roxy Regional Theatre in the heart of downtown. Is the Macy’s Santa, in fact, the real Kris Kringle? Find out at this holiday classic. Having produced live professional theatre for more than 30 years, the Roxy is another holiday regional favorite. The special Christmas production runs through Saturday, December 22. For performance dates and times, or to purchase tickets online, visit roxyregionaltheatre.org.
   Downtown Commons Winter Ice Rink returns to Clarksville for its second season. A portion of city’s newest park, Downtown Commons, will open for ice skating on Friday, November 23 at 6:30 p.m.-10:45 p.m. Admission for ice skating will be $10 per person, which includes the cost of renting ice skates within a specified time block. The ice rink will be open at designated times through January 21, with the full park opening in the spring. For dates and times, visit facebook.com/downtowncommonstn.

DRIVE-THRU CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
   Drive Thru Christmas Lights begins at the Clarksville Speedway on Thanksgiving night, November 22, and continues days through January 1. Enjoy over one mile, and over a million lights, from the comfort of your car. See admission and special discount nights at www.clarksvillespeedway.com.
WINTERFEST
   Erin’s Farm is ablaze with Christmas activities. The seasons kicks off with WinterFest on Sunday, December 2 from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. The day includes hayrides and hot cocoa, food, activities and crafts for the kids, smore making, and family fun and games. You can also select and cut your own fresh Christmas tree on Friday-Sunday, November 23-December 16. The farm will open on Saturday, November 17 (with no activities) for those who want to cut a tree early. A gift gallery carries a variety of local-artisan produced goods, crafts and artworks. Visit their website at www.erinsfarm.com for workshop schedules and hand-blow your very own one-of-a-kind Christmas ornament.
HOLIDAY FILM SERIES
   If you just want to relax and take a break from the harried pace that the holiday season can entail, check out the Roxy Regional Theatre’s Holiday Film Series. For only $5, enjoy holiday classics in the beautiful historic venue beginning with “Babes in Toyland” Sunday, November 25 at 2p.m., “Polar Express” Sunday, December 2 at 2p.m., “Disney’s A Christmas Carol” Sunday, December 9 at 6p.m., and “It’s a Wonderful Life” Sunday, December 16 at 2:00 p.m. See details at www.roxyregionaltheatre.org.
LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE
   The city’s 59th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade kicks off on Saturday, December 2 at 5:00 p.m. Winding its way from Austin Peay State University through historic downtown, the sights and sounds of this event will thrill the young at heart of all ages.
SPIRITFEST
   SpiritFest, now in its fourth year, is a pre-parade event that includes a bounty of free activities. Visits with Santa Claus, rides on the Polar Express, inflatables, live music, art and gift markets, food trucks and a live nativity with animals begin at 2:00 p.m. on December 1. Visit fpcclarksville.org/spiritfest_microsite/ for more info on parking and schedules.
TREES OF CHRISTMAS
   More than 20 trees decorate the rooms of the historic Smith Trahern Mansion during Trees of Christmas. Opening Sunday, December 2 from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., each tree in this display is designed and decorated by a local club or organization. Call (931) 648-9998 for details.
CHRISTMAS TOWN
   See hundreds of porcelain pieces that make up the large display for Christmas Town at the Customs House Museum. With moving parts and lights, and even a model train making its way through the village, the exhibit is sure to delight the young and not-so-young! Experience Christmas Town from November 1 – January 27. See more about museum offerings and exhibits at www.customshousemuseum.com.
COLLINSVILLE’S CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS
   Docents will take guests on guided tours during Historic Collinsville’s Candlelight Christmas December 14-15. Experience each home and structure from the mid-19th Century with primitive period holiday décor. Stroll through the earliest First Home or Lewis House, a two-room primitive pre-Civil War dwelling, explore the expansive Dogtrot House, and see the smokehouse, church/schoolhouse, wildlife center, and more. Tours depart from the Visitor Center on the half hour from 4:00-8:00 p.m. For tickets and more information visit www.facebook.com/historiccollinsville
A CIVIL WAR CHRISTMAS
   Learn how our ancestors celebrated Christmas during the Civil War at A 19th Century Christmas at Fort Defiance Interpretive Center on Sunday, December 16 from 3-7.m. Visitors will be able to step back in time to see period decorations, visit with a 19th century Santa, and enjoy eggnog, cakes, and caroling. Attendees must register in advance for a 3:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m. time. For details visit
www.facebook.com/events/639805729718953/.
CONTACT US
   If you’d simply like to sit back and enjoy the sites, our local restaurants have a picture-perfect seat for you. Enjoy a fresh-from-scratch meal or local brew and enjoy the view of illumination. Start planning your holiday getaway at www.visitclarksvilletn.com or download our handy app to customize your trip.

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32nd Annual Miracle on Madison Ave.

Publisher — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 14:45:28 +0000

Madison Avenue is gearing up for the holidays, and the highlight is the 32nd Annual Miracle on Madison Avenue on December 1 – a New York Holiday Tradition! At this time of year, many out-of-towners and metro residents arrive in Manhattan to do their shopping, see the sights, the lights, the holiday trees and windows. Madison Avenue has everything they could want in a glorious 29-block walk of luxury shopping, 5-star dining and the world’s premier hotels, nightspots, spas and art.

On Saturday, December 1, Miracle on Madison Avenue will reappear on New York’s most luxurious shopping destination for its 32nd annual shopping event. Miracle on Madison Avenue is a day for shoppers and visitors to check off their holiday gift lists, as 20 percent of the day’s sales will benefit The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Pediatric Programs. The Society of MSK is a volunteer led organization that works to ensure the wellbeing of patients, raise funds for cancer research and treatment, and provide public education on the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer.

Organized by the Madison Avenue Business Improvement District (BID), shoppers will experience the magic of Miracle on Madison Avenue with a merry embrace from MSK’s beloved therapy dogs, the Caring Canines, and Victorian costumed carolers strolling up and down Madison spreading good cheer. Participating stores are prepared to warmly greet customers with holiday treats, champagne toasts and in-store festivities. “Madison Avenue boutiques always feature the most sought after holiday gifts, but on Miracle Saturday, purchase of those gifts directly supports the care of children treated by the extraordinary team at MSK,” said Matthew Bauer, President of the Madison Avenue BID. “This 32 year Madison Avenue tradition is remarkable not only for its longevity, but for the decades-long commitment that our boutiques have for both their clients and for children in need.”

Miracle on Madison Avenue will begin at 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. between 57th and 86th Street. Shoppers are encouraged to share their holiday shopping experience on Twitter by using the hashtag #MiracleonMadison. For more information on the festivities and the complete list of participating store, restaurants and galleries visit http://www.madisonavenuebig.org

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Holidays in Scottsdale, AZ

Publisher — Mon, 30 Dec 2013 21:35:58 +0000

The holidays are a unique time in Scottsdale. Whether you’re searching for family fun or looking to cozy up with that special someone, there are a plethora of possibilities for enjoying an exclusive experience in the Sonoran Desert this holiday season. We’ve rounded up our picks for what makes Scottsdale stand out during this wonderful time of year!
Great Holiday Events
Explore the breathtaking Sonoran Desert all by the glowing light of more than 8,000 hand-lit luminaries from Nov. 29 through Dec. 31 at the Desert Botanical Garden’s Las Noches de las Luminarias. Sip on hot chocolate from the Patio Café as you stroll the paths throughout the garden. Feel the holiday spirit as music from carolers, handbells, guitars and violins fills the air.
With advanced reservations, you can even dine at Gertrude’s, which stays open late for the event. And a trip to the Desert Botanical Garden is not complete without stopping by the Chihuly in the Garden exhibit, which returns to the garden from November 2013 through May 2014. Only during Las Noches de las Luminarias can you witness artist Dale Chihuly’s colorful glasswork reflected by thousands of white twinkle lights against the night sky.
Kids and the Zoo
Kids and kids at heart will be delighted as they wander through Zoo Lights at the Phoenix Zoo Nov. 28, 2013 through Jan. 12, 2014. As the sun begins to set and the furry and reptilian residents at the Phoenix Zoo start to snooze, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland. Roam the complex beneath the shine of more than 3 million colorful twinkle lights and 500 custom-made animal and nature light sculptures. You’ll likely spot a sleepy orangutan, a wide-awake coyote and even Jengo the talking giraffe throughout the festivities.
Christmas Tree
Trim your Christmas tree this holiday season with hand-made ornaments from American Indian artists during Heard Museum’s Ornament Marketplace from Nov. 28 through Dec. 1. Return to the museum Dec. 26-31 for Holidays at the Heard, an annual Southwestern tradition. This event takes museum visitors on a journey through American Indian culture with exciting performances and artist demonstrations.
Christmas at the Princess
Literally rock around the musical Christmas tree at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ annual winter celebration Christmas at the Princess. At the Princess tree-lighting ceremony on Nov. 21, see 65,000 lights shine brightly on a four-story tree that plays 10 holiday favorite songs. The event, which runs through Jan.5, 2014, features a 5,400-square-foot ice skating rink, visits from Santa and his elves, musical performances, the Silver Saguaro Holiday Shoppe, and lots of yummy snacks and beverages to keep you warm. And the Spectacular Lagoon Lights that shine throughout the resort are truly magical.

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Gaylord Palms Hotel – Florida

Publisher — Mon, 30 Dec 2013 03:32:37 +0000

Florida is making a buzz for Christmas, and Gaylord Palms, Orlando is right in the center of it all. Who says the fun should end when you get to the hotel? Why not enjoy the digs as much as the theme parks for the holidays. Situated right next to Disney and minutes from Sea World and Universal Studios, Gaylord Palms, Orlando is without a doubt the best place to stay for the holidays in Florida. Here’s 10 reasons why.

1. Location,

location, location. Gaylord Palms is close to it all, so close that they offer shuttle service free of charge to Disney! That’s right. They can also arrange shuttle service to Sea World, Universal, and the airport for a small fee. So forget driving in a place you’re unfamiliar with and enjoy the ride.

2. A stunning resort property with a 4.5 acre botanical atrium that even Las Vegas can’t touch. Where you might expect a garden, you get 4.5 acres of tropical foliage lining paved trails that summon your feet to stroll through caverns, waterfalls and even a replica of the Castillo de San Marcos. This all inside a climate controlled paradise designed after popular Florida themes; St. Augustine, the Emerald Bay, Key West, the Everglades and Florida Springs.

3. Gaylord Palms is wild! This is no flashy fishtank hotel. How about a replica of Florida’s natural springs, Emerald Bay and a 161,000 gallon lagoon which are all home to a variety of marine and land wildlife including; koi, catfish, pacu, tarpon, stingrays, live snakes, 30 species of native Florida turtles, and even live alligators!

4. The Christmassy Dreamworks Experience is AWESOME! Character meet and greets from Shrek and Madagascar are surprising kids all the time at Gaylord Palms. You can even enjoy Shrek Feast at the Villa de Flora, a character meet and greet for breakfast. I love this beyond words. They take their time and go to each table and really make it special for each and every child. There are no mobs or rushing the kids, they really want to make these memories amazing. You can even get a map of where all the characters will be making it very easy to see everyone. This is so cool.

5. Annual Christmas Ice event. With a new surprise theme each year you’re going to be making a habit of Gaylord Palms for Christmas. This year’s Ice event theme is the American classic, Frosty the Snowman, an ice sculpture wonderland of rooms, tunnels, slides and scenes from the cartoon carved entirely from ice. Dress warm, this is the only place in Florida where it will ever be 8 degrees. Parkas provided.

6. Luminescence, a light and sound spectacular. Gather around Gaylord’s massive 54-foot Christmas tree and let the holiday cheer warm your heart as you watch over 2 million lights dance to symphony and live stage entertainment. All FREE!

7. Christmas everywhere you turn! From a reindeer scavenger hunt to pictures with Santa Clause, Christmas is around every corner at Gaylord Palms. Take a stroll through Holiday Hall for hot chocolate, fresh roasted nuts and holiday decor shopping.

8. Spend time with your kids and build a gingerbread house! Join your kids at Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating. Make a masterpiece and get photos with Dreamworks, Gingy from Shrek.

9. Hospitality and a friendly staff make staying at Gaylord Palms any time of the year a memorable experience. No matter what, every time I make a Gaylord Palms visit, the staff is courteous and happy, nothing but smiles and hellos from everyone. I love how warm everyone is. This is what makes Gaylord Palms my favorite resort in all of Florida.

10. Dining experiences that take you on a Florida tour. Enjoy fine dining at the Old Hickory Steakhouse nestled in the swamps of the Everglades, hop on Sunset Sam’s life sized sailboat in its own lagoon with live fish, catch the game at Wreckers with its 37’ big screen, or get a Vegas style buffet at Villa de Flora in the center of the atrium. No mattter what your taste, there’s something for everyone.

There is NOWHERE in America that you can get all of this in one place. If you’re thinking Florida for Christmas, make it Gaylord Palms, Orlando.

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