Photo by Radio City Music Hall

As it was my first time to see the annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular, I didn’t know what to expect, but had only heard about the marvelous, synchronized Rockettes and, of course, seen posters of their eye-level kicks on the Subway and all over New York City. And indeed, I was stunned by their perfect precision in the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “Let Christmas Shine,” wearing their shimmering showgirl outfits. It must be every girl’s dream to become one of the famous Rockettes, reminding me of a conversation I overheard between a little girl—who wanted to join the troupe on stage—and her mother, who told her that she could not go on stage even though, of course, she was a pretty little princess. Throughout the show, Santa takes you on a magical ride to his workshop at the North Pole and the Rockettes take you on a sightseeing bus trip through the city, including Central Park and its ice skaters as well as Times Square and its bright illuminated signs. Also worth mentioning is the striking reenactment of the first Christmas, telling the tale of the birth of Jesus and the wise men’s journey to Bethlehem; the “Living Nativity” featured real camels, sheep, and even a mule on the stage! Can you believe that? The Christmas Spectacular is a MUST SEE when you’re in the city around Christmas. It made me feel like a child again, giving me goose bumps and putting me in a joyful holiday mood. It’s not only great for families, but for EVERYONE who likes Christmas. “The Radio City Christmas Spectacular” continues through December 30th at Radio City Music Hall. For more information please call (212) 307-1000, or visit www.radiocity.com.Posted by Kathi Hartwecker
Continue reading "NEED SOMETHING TO HARNESS THAT HOLIDAY MOOD?..." »

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Starting November 22nd Tim Burton Art on Exhibit! Museum of Modern Art, 11 West 53rd Street (between 5th & 6th Avenue), 212-708-9400, www.moma.org

 

November 23rd thru Dec. 24th Get you holiday shopping list done at the Grand Central Holiday Gift Fair Grand Central Terminal, 42nd Street & Park Avenue, 212-340-2345, www.grandcentralterminal.com

Starting November 24th MET Annual Christmas Tree & Baroque Crèche Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Avenue @ 82nd Street, 212-535-7710, www.metmuseum.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 27th at 8 PM NYC Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker” Make Your Nutcracker Experience Even Sweeter By Choosing Sweet Seats. There is no sweeter way to enjoy the holidays than with a visit to George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™. This magical production has delighted millions since 1954 and remains the touchstone for celebrating the season in New York City. Once you see it, you will never forget it. Lincoln Center Plaza-NY State Theater, 20 Lincoln Center (62nd &63rd St. on Columbus Ave.), 212-870-5570, www.nycballet.com

 

November 27th at 6 PM South Street Seaport Tree Lighting Attend one of the first major tree lightings of the season and watch the 50-foot Douglas fir light up the cobblestone streets. Then your family can “Deck the Halls” at the docks as the Big Apple Chorus, a group of barbershop doo-woppers, harmonize holiday carols. All ages. Enjoy the Tree from November 27th at 6 PM through Sunday, December 27th. Big Apple Chorus performs every Fri at 6, 7pm; Sat, Sun at 3, 4pm. South Street Seaport, Fulton St at South St (212-732-7678, southstreetseaport.com). Subway: A, C to Broadway–Nassau St; J, M, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 to Fulton St.

Here is the latest information in regards to Macy’s 4^th of July Fireworks on the Hudson, honoring the 400^th Anniversary of the Hudson River.

The fireworks may be viewed from any area with an unobstructed view of the sky above the Hudson River. For the best views, head to 12^th Avenue below 59^th Street at the following access points along 11^th Avenue:

Access Points

· 24^th Street

· 26^th through 30^th Streets

· 34^th Street

· 40^th through 44^th Streets

· 47^th through 52^nd Streets

· 54^th through 57^th Streets

Please note: There is very limited viewing North of 59^th Street on the West Side.

The following areas are NOT viewing areas for the 2009 Fireworks Show:

· East River (site of the 2008 show)

· Battery Park

· Battery Park City

· All Hudson River Piers (Except limited access to Pier 54 and pier 84)

· Hudson River Park promenade between W. Houston and 59^th Street

· Hudson River Park bike path between W. Houston and 59^th Street

Watercraft Viewing

Call our marine hotline after June 1^st at 212-494-5243 for boater viewing and coast guard safety zone information.

For more information, call our fireworks hotline at 212-494-4495 or visit www.macys.com

 

Coney Island

Also, don’t miss out on the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest 2009 at Coney Island on Saturday, July 4^th beginning at noon. Address is 1310 Surf Avenue (Corner of Surf Avenue & Stillwell Avenue). For more information visit www.nathansfamous.com or www.ifoce.com

If the hot dog eating contest isn’t something you like to watch, there’s plenty of things to do on the boardwalk such as Side Show acts, The Wonder Wheel, The Cyclone and other rides, pro Volleyball tournament and the Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus and much more. For more information visit www.coneyisland.com
Continue reading "Happy 4th of July - New Fireworks Location" »

Staten Island Chuck and his Pennsylvania pal had some conflicting views on the future weather this Groundhog Day. After some prodding from Mayor Michael Bloomberg, a reluctant Chuck the groundhog finally came out of his home and made his annual prediction. According to the mayor, the three-year-old, 10-pound Chuck did not see his shadow – meaning spring will come early. Onlookers said they were happy with Chuck's forecast. "This was [my son's] first Groundhog's Day and I was just excited to see it and we're expecting and praying that it's an early spring," said one Staten Island resident. "I really wanted it to be spring because this winter has been really cold," said another. While Groundhog Day is a fun tradition for grownups and children, its roots go back to agriculture. "It's based on farming," explained zoo keeper Douglas Schwartz. "They wanted to know if they could plant or not, so they turned to the groundhog for advice." However, there were conflicting groundhogs this year. In Pennsylvania, Punxatawney Phil had this official forecast: Phil's official forecast as read February 2nd, 2009 at sunrise at Gobbler's Knob: Hear Ye Hear Ye On Gobbler's Knob this glorious Groundhog Day, February 2nd, 2009 Punxsutawney Phil, Seer of Seers, Prognosticator of all Prognosticators Awoke to the call of President Bill Cooper And greeted his handlers, Ben Hughes and John Griffiths After casting a joyful eye towards thousands of his faithful followers, Phil proclaimed that his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers were World Champions one more time And a bright sky above me Showed my shadow beside me. So 6 more weeks of winter it will be. According to his keeper, Chuck has been right 84 percent of the time compared to around 40 percent for other groundhogs. "I go with Chuck, not just because I'm a Staten Islander but because Chuck's been right most of the time; Phil's been wrong most of the time," said a third local resident. City residents hope their rodent is right. *Courtesy of NY1 and The Official Punxatawney Phil Website

It is finally the end of 2008. End of the political elections, stock markets near crashing, new Olympic records, the fight for gay marriages and much more that set the tone for 2009. So to properly ring in the new year of 2009, there are many parties throughout NYC that are being offered and will cost you a lot of money. But none of them can match the fame of the one that's viewed worldwide and that is to watch the ball drop on New Years Eve in Times Square. So here are some Tips, Q's & A's and Info on attending this yearly historic event courtesy of The Times Square Alliance:

 

 

Where is the Ball lowered?

 

The Times Square New Year's Eve Ball descends from a flagpole at the top of One Times Square. It can best be seen along Broadway, from 43rd Street to 50th Street, and along Seventh Avenue, as far north as 59th Street.

 

What streets will be closed for the celebrations?

 

The New York Police Department will begin closing down access to Times Square starting at 43rd Street and Broadway and moving north as revelers arrive. The exact times that these blocks close to pedestrian and vehicular traffic will depend on when the revelers begin arriving. It is likely that there will be no vehicular traffic on either Broadway or Seventh Avenue as of approximately 4:00 p.m. Vehicles will most likely have difficulty traveling across town after 6:00 p.m. above 42nd Street as far north as 59th Street. If you are planning to come to Times Square and join in the festivities, you are advised to enter from Sixth or Eighth Avenue. Your chance of getting a viewing spot near the Ball (at Broadway & 43rd Street) increases the earlier you arrive. The blocks will be closed off as they fill up northward, street-by-street, as the police deem necessary.

 

 

Will there be areas in Times Square designated for the disabled?

 

Yes. The police will set aside a viewing area for the disabled, located on the northwest corner of 43rd Street. However, this area will fill up quickly, and it is advised that disabled visitors arrive early in the day. For a listing of the access points from which you can enter Times Square, please click here.

 

 

Where is the best view?

 

The earlier you arrive, the better your view and the closer you will be to the action. The sound system is set up in the Bowtie area (where Broadway and Seventh Avenue cross), and the video screens on One Times Square (where the Ball is lowered) are easily visible. There are additional screens set up at Broadway and 50th Street, Broadway and 52nd Street, Broadway and 54th Street and Broadway and 58th Street.

 

What is the best way to come to Times Square?

 

The best way to come to Times Square is via public transportation. To get to Times Square, the # 1, 2, 3, 7, A, B, C, D, E, F, N, Q, R, W, V and S shuttle trains all service the Times Square area. Please note that the MTA has advised revelers not to use the 42nd Street Subway Station on New Year's Eve due to crowding conditions - you are advised to exit at one of the surrounding stations and enter Times Square on foot. It is expected that the MTA will keep all subway stations open on New Year's Eve. Some entrances and exits may be closed as crowd conditions require. After 7 p.m. on December 31st, the N and R train station at 49th Street and Seventh Avenue may be closed until after midnight. Trains may also bypass some stations, depending on how the crowds build. For further information nearer the date of the event, please call or visit the MTA at (718) 330-1234 or www.mta.info.

 

Other useful sources of information:

 

Port Authority Bus Terminal (212) 564-8484?New York City Transit Authority (Local Bus Service) (718) 330-1234?Amtrak (800) 523-8720?Metro North (212) 532-4900?Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) (718) 217- LIRR

 

For questions on New Year's Eve about access, please contact the NYPD sub-station at (212)-239-9803 or the Times Square Alliance Dispatch Office at (212)-452-5218. Please call ONLY on New Year's Eve.

 

 

How do I enter Times Square on New Year's Eve?

 

Please click here for a list of all access points.

 

When should I get there?

 

Revelers begin to gather in the late afternoon on New Year's Eve, December 31st. The best advice we can give is to get there as early as possible. We cannot predict how quickly the viewing areas will fill up. Prime viewing areas may fill up early in the afternoon.

 

At approximately 6:00 p.m. EST the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball will be raised to the top of the 77-foot flagpole at One Times Square (Broadway at 43rd Street) and lit. At exactly 11:59 p.m. EST, the Ball will make its 60-second descent down the flagpole to signal the start of the New Year.

 

Please Note: Revelers who arrive very early in the day, before the police have established viewing areas, may be moved by the NYPD when barricades are put in place.

 

Here is the timeline for last year's street closures and viewing areas. This information may be helpful for planning your trip to this year's event:

 

3:45pm - 7th Avenue & Broadway closed to vehicular traffic from 43rd Street to 49th Street (cross streets were closed at 3:30pm).

 

5pm - All cross streets closed to vehicular traffic except 57th Street, 58th Street & 59th Street. 42nd Street closed to vehicular traffic.

 

5:30pm - Viewing areas filled north to 48th Street, south to 40th - 41st Street.

 

6pm - Viewing areas filled to 52nd Street.

 

10pm - Viewing areas filled to 58th Street, south to 38th Street.

 

10:30pm - Viewing areas filled to 59th Street.

 

 

Will there be portable public restrooms available?

 

No.

 

 

Is alcohol or champagne allowed?

 

No. Public drinking is illegal in New York City. Police will confiscate alcohol.

 

 

Will there be food and drink vendors in the square?

 

No. There will be no licensed food and beverage vendors in Times Square. However, there are hundreds of restaurants in and around Times Square (see below).

 

 

Will there be restaurants open in the area? Can revelers return to the same viewing areas after dining?

 

Many restaurants located in the Times Square area will be open on New Year's Eve - be sure to consult our Interactive Map and Guide to locate a restaurant - and make your reservations well in advance. Please remember that if you dine at a local restaurant, you will not simply be able to come out and watch the Ball lowering at midnight. Revelers will arrive in Times Square early in the day, and while you are dining, designated viewing areas will fill up on a "first come, first served" basis. Furthermore, no one is allowed to stand in the emergency lanes or on sidewalks. Please remember that if you leave your viewing area to dine in a restaurant, you will not be able to return to your spot in a viewing area.

 

 

Are theaters, stores and restaurants going to be open?

 

Some Broadway theaters will be open on New Year's Eve. The TKTS booth will open at 10 a.m. on New Year's Eve. You can check the schedules for Broadway and some Off Broadway shows at www.telecharge.com or www.ticketmaster.com, and check out our Interactive Map and Guides. Stores and restaurants will be open at their own discretion, so please call them ahead of time. Please remember that if you leave your viewing area to dine in a restaurant, you will not be able to return to your spot in a viewing area.

 

 

Which Times Square restaurants and hotels have a view of the Ball?

 

Renaissance New York

 

DoubleTree Guest Suites

 

Marriott Marquis

 

TGI Fridays

 

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company

 

Sbarro Pizza

 

Olive Garden

 

2 Times Square

 

Please check out our Interactive Map & Guides for contact information for the above venues.

 

 

What security procedures are in place?

 

The New York Police Department will control all access points to Times Square. No bags or backpacks are permitted. Emergency Service squads, drug and bomb sniffing canine units and counter-terrorism personnel will be present in Times Square on New Year's Eve.

 

 

Where can I find information on Times Square New Year's Eve parties?

 

There's no more electrifying place on the planet than Time Square on New Year's Eve. Check this page for details on New Year's Eve parties you can attend at the Crossroads of the World. More >>

 

 

What is the history of the Times Square New Year's Eve event?

 

Revelers have been celebrating New Year's Eve in Times Square since 1904. To learn more about the celebration's history, check out our History of New Year's Eve in Times Square.

 

 

What can you tell me about the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball?

 

Plenty. Check out this page: About the New Year's Eve Ball.

 

 

What should I wear and what should I bring?

 

Dress warmly. Remember that you could be spending an extended period outdoors in potentially below-freezing conditions. You should be well-prepared and well-insulated. Many layers, synthetics (such as Goretex and polypropylene), wind-resistant and water-repellant outerwear and a good hat are the keys to staying warm.

 

Finally, remember to drink lots of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine. Not only is public drinking illegal in New York City, but both caffeine and alcohol will dehydrate you. Dehydration is very common and can sneak up on you in cold weather.

 

 

Are tickets needed for this event?

 

No. This event is open to everyone. However, to get the best view, arrive early in the afternoon.

 

 

Will there be a Webcast?

 

TBD - check back for more info.

 

 

Are there still hotel rooms available in the Times Square area?

 

There are more than 16,000 hotel rooms in the Times Square neighborhood - ranging from large hotel chains, to small quiet retreats or suite hotels for extended stays. There are also several youth hostels situated in and around the Times Square area. Book your stay now to avoid disappointment. For a complete listing of hotels in the area visit our Interactive Map and Guides. You can contact the hotels directly about rates and availability, or contact your travel agent for more information and reservations.

 

 

How much confetti is dropped in Times Square on New Year's Eve?

 

More than 1 ton of confetti.

 

 

Can I volunteer to help prepare for New Year's Eve?

 

Absolutely. There are many opportunities to help the Times Square Alliance prepare for New Year’s Eve. Once you’ve signed on, you will be contacted with specific information about the various volunteer projects that you can participate in. Projects include helping with mailings, putting together gift bags, general office support, and much more. There will be weekday, evening and weekend volunteer dates throughout November and December. If you would like to help out, please email us at volunteers@timessquarealliance.org. Please be sure to include your name, phone number, email address, and general availability (evenings, weekends, or weekdays.)

 

Wednesday, December 31 / DJ Music and Dancing • 10:00 p.m. / Costume Parade and Contest • 11:00 p.m. / Fireworks and 4M Race • Midnight / Central Park, New York

Kick off the New Year with a spectacular fireworks at the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run. With a costume parade, dancing, all the rest, this four-miler is more of a party than a race. Count down the minutes ’til midnight and then count down the miles ’til the finish line.

 

Party Location

Dancing and the costume contest are at the Central Park Bandshell, just south of the 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park, New York. The closest entrance is at Fifth Avenue and 72nd Street.

 

 

Course

All courses are subject to change. Check back here the day before the race for final confirmation. ??Start on Central Park’s 72nd Street Transverse and head east to East Drive. Turn left/north and continue to the 102nd Street Transverse. Turn left/west across the transverse and then left/south on West Drive. Continue to the 72nd Street Transverse, turning left/east to the finish line. Click here to view the 4-Mile course map. Visit www.nyrr.org for more information.

 

Slava’s Snowshow on Broadway was a great show! It’s totally different with than any other show I have ever seen.

 

Slava’s Snowshow is ideal for the Christmas season. You can go with your family or with a loved one, I think anyone would have fun and appreciate this show.

 

I have never seen this kind of show before. This show is not kind of typical show you would find on Broadway. The theater is not that big, the show doesn’t have handsome actors, so I was very curious about this non-conventional theatre experience. The acting and expression is very clear to me and that’s what I loved so much clowns/ circus performers of this show. I very much enjoyed all the clowns in the show. Although, the clowns seem like ordinary clowns, yellow or green outfit, red nose, look poor and they have sad face too. Nevertheless clown acts are never the same as others. They have different theme and make different people laugh with their own ways and their own methods. During the show some parts are quite serious but overall the show this show is very easygoing. I was laughing a lot. The performers seemed to touched everyone’s hearts.

 

In addition I really like Helen Hayes Theatre. This theater is beautifully decorated and it has it’s own unique atmosphere. It’s not too big and it’s not too small. Size was remarkably nice for a unique and interactive show. The actors interact with audience in so many different ways. For examples, touch audience hands, splash waters to audience, throw something (not dangerous at all) to audience, and more. These are very interesting characters and I had a lot of fun with the clowns. All things came together very well to me to create a very special production. It was a really great experience for me.

 

The finale was fabulous! It was fantastic! What a rush! The snowflakes were everywhere and that made me so happy. I felt like time had turned back to my childhood when I used to like playing in the snow. It brung back memories I had long forgotten. 

 

I have been to other Broadway shows with big lights, big theater, good sound facilities, famous actors…but there was always something missing from the other shows. And yet these are the most popular shows on Broadway. After I finished watching Slava’s Snowshow, my mind and heart was occupied with warmth and real happiness. And this is a feeling that I don’t get from the popular Broadway shows out there today. Don’t miss Slava’s  Snowshow! If you have chance to see this show, I’m strongly recommend taking your family to Slava’s Snowshow before it closes on Jan 4th!

 

Written by Na Yei Lee (Korea)

Tuba Christmas

TUBACHRISTMAS was conceived in 1974 as a tribute to the late artist/teacher William J. Bell, born on Christmas Day, 1902. Through the legendary William J. Bell we reflect on our heritage and honor all great artists/teachers whose legacy has given us high performance standards, well structured pedagogy, professional integrity, personal values and a camaraderie envied by all other instrumentalists. The first TUBACHRISTMAS was conducted by the late Paul Lavalle in New York City’s Rockefeller Plaza Ice Rink on Sunday, December 22, 1974.

 

NEW YORK CITY – 35TH ANNIVERSARY – SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13

TIME: 3:30 pm?

LOCATION: Rockefeller Center Ice Rink?

CONDUCTOR: Harvey Phillips?

GUEST CONDUCTOR: Chris Wilhjelm – Former conductor of the Goldman Memorial Band

NOTE: If interested in participating or would like more information, please visit http://www.tubachristmas.com/

 

 

 

NYRR Holiday 4-Mile Race

’Tis the season to be running! Crank up your holiday cheer with this festive family affair. It’s our present to you—happy holidays!

 

Course: Start on Central Park’s 102nd Street Transverse near East Drive and head west. Turn left/south onto West Drive, left/east onto the 72nd Street Transverse, and continue left/north on East Drive turning left/west to finish on 102nd Street Transverse.

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Fore more information visit www.nyrr.org 

 

NYC Santacon

Tourists and locals alike better behave…Santa is coming to town. Well, about a few hundred Santas will be on the loose, singing Christmas carols and of course reciting their jolly “ho, ho, ho” this Saturday December 13th starting at 10am and going on until the next day. So be on the lookout and take lots of photos of the hundreds of Santas that will take on the streets of NYC. Some of them may already be drunk but most of them are people just spreading holiday cheer from donating to charities, doing circus acts or just being naturally jolly. 

The Madison Square Park Conservancy hopes you will join with us, with your neighbors and with friends as we gather around the majestic 30-foot tree at the northern plaza. Each year, the Conservancy decorates the park using a seasonal theme. For 2008, our theme is “Everlasting,” inspired by thoughts of everlasting hope, peace and kindness. We hope you will celebrate the season with us.

 

 

Date: Tuesday, December 9, 2008

 

Time: 4:30pm – 5:30pm

 

Place: Northern plaza in Madison Square Park

 

(Enter at 25th St. and Fifth Ave. or Madison Ave.)

 

 

Enjoy holiday choral music by the New York Life Singers, seasonal tunes performed by Audra Rox and her band, the spectacular tree lighting and sweet treats by Olana restaurant! Fore more information go to www.madisonsquarepark.org

 

NBC heralds the arrival of the holidays with a dazzling display of musical talent and the lighting of the world's most famous Christmas tree during the 11th annual "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" telecast. Hosted by Al Roker ("Today"), the star-studded 76th annual tree lighting extravaganza will feature superstars such as Jamie Foxx, Stephen Colbert, Miley Cyrus, Beyoncé, Tony Bennett, Neil Boyd, Jonas Brothers, Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, Harry Connick Jr., David Cook, Rosie O'Donnell and The Broadway Kids, Faith Hill, Rascal Flatts, and Solange Knowles performing current hits and holiday classics from Rockefeller Center in New York City. Prior to the network special, WNBC NBC's New York flagship station, will broadcast an additional live hour of the special (7-8 p.m. ET).

 

The holiday kick-off doesn’t officially begin until the day after Thanksgiving. But with Thanksgiving only a week away, signs of the chaotic holiday season are now starting to spruce up ever so quickly all throughout New York City. One place officially getting the early jump on the holiday season is the annual Holiday Market at Grand Central Terminal. Now in it’s Tenth Year, the Grand Central Holiday Fair continues to attract New Yorkers and tourists alike. Conveniently located in the heart of midtown, Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall makes a perfect destination for an elegant shopping experience and finding the most unique custom goods ranging from hand made jewelry, beauty products, accessories and much more. The holiday market will be closed on Thanksgiving but is usually open from Monday – Saturday: 10am – 8pm and Sunday from 11am – 7pm. For more information visit www.grandcemtralterminal.com

 

The Annual Columbus Day Parade?on Fifth Avenue, New York City

 

Monday, October 13, 2008 ?Fifth Ave. from 44th to 79th Streets ?Noon to 3:00 p.m.

 

35,000 marchers. Over 100 bands, floats and contingents. Nearly one million spectators.

 

On October 13, Fifth Avenue will be transformed during the Columbus Day Parade, the world’s largest celebration of Italian-American culture.

 

The parade celebrates the spirit of exploration and courage that inspired Christopher Columbus’s 1492 expedition and the important contributions Italian-Americans have made to the United States. Over a dozen high school bands, as well as virtuosi professional groups from the United States and Italy, will make the march up Fifth Avenue and fill the canyons of midtown with joyous, heart-pounding music. Traditional folk groups will perform centuries-old dances, and cutting-edge designs will be brought to the parade route in displays of the vibrant culture that is Italy today.

 

Featured guests, the Grand Marshal, honorees and dignitaries will be announced in September 2008. But mark your calendar! This is one parade you won’t want to miss. For more information visit www.columbuscitizensfd.org

 

 

 

Spa Week

 

Spa Week begins Oct 13th until the 19th along the East Coast. Spa Week has grown in just three short years to 21 cities nationwide with over 500 individual participating spas. Along the way, Spa Week has attracted the attention and participation of many corporate sponsors, including: Saab, eBay, Conair, jane iredale—The Skin Care Makeup, CEW, Pevonia Botanica Skincare, PHYTO Universe, CareCredit, Borba Skin Balance Water, Goldstar, Olivier New York, Essence of Vali, Los Angeles Magazine, Xela Aromasticks, POM Wonderful, Pure Essentials, Nicoderm, Aqua Fresh, CancerandCareers.org and Allure Magazine. For more information on participating spas for $50 services, visit www.spaweek.org

 

If you’re looking for a relaxing one-day getaway during the Columbus Day holiday weekend that won’t have you breaking the bank, the 250 historic acres of The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is the place to go. Easy to reach by train on Metro-North, (20 minutes from Grand Central Terminal and 22 minutes from White Plains), the Botanical Garden is an autumn oasis with plenty to see and do for the entire family. Enjoy fun and educational hands-on art and nature activities, a musical performance, a live wolf, and family-friendly tours of exhibitions and the 50-acre Forest. Gorgeous flowers, and perennial gardens; secret sylvan retreats; dramatic natural landscapes and waterfalls interacting seamlessly with colossal art ? it all can be found at the Botanical Garden. All events are included with the purchase of an All-Garden Pass. For more information about planning a “Staycation” at The New York Botanical Garden, visit http://www.nybg.org/staycation.

 

Events at The New York Botanical Garden on Sunday, October 12, and Monday, October 13, focus on family exploration of art and nature through Moore in America: Monumental Sculpture at The New York Botanical Garden? the largest outdoor exhibition of Henry Moore’s sculpture ever presented in a single venue in the United States, with 20 major pieces positioned throughout the Garden?and activities and programs at the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden, Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, and throughout the Garden grounds. Planned activities* for both days of the Staycation include:

 

* Musical performances by M Shanghai String Band on Sunday and the Westchester Chordsmen Quartet on Monday, from 12 – 4 p.m. in the Children’s Adventure Garden.

 

* A visit by Atka the wolf at Daffodil Hill from the Wolf Conservation Center at 2 p.m.

 

* Family tours of Moore in America starting at 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. from the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden· Bird Walk in the Forest at 1 p.m. and a Family Forest Tour at 3 p.m.

 

* Apple Cider Pressing at the Clay Family Picnic Pavilions from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

* A Migliorelli Farms stand of apples, cider, and cider donuts for sale in the Children’s Adventure Garden’s Discovery Plaza.· Hands-on nature activities at the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden throughout the weekend plus the opening of Kiku for Kids on Monday, October 13.

 

* Goodnight Garden, providing an engaging and educational opportunity for kids to help put the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden to rest before winter· Prizes (while supplies last) for families who complete the entire Moore Family Fun Guide and bring it back to the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.

 

* An informative documentary film, The Art of Henry Moore in the Arthur and Janet Ross Lecture Hall at 12 and 2 p.m.

 

* Schedule subject to change.

 

The New York Botanical Garden has much to offer. Explore the ongoing exhibitions A World of Plants in the Conservatory and Plants and Fungi: Ten Current Research Stories in the Britton Science Rotunda and Gallery. Stroll among the fall blossoms of Seasonal Walk, or along the tree collections throughout the Garden grounds which are beginning their transformation to the season’s stunning foliage. Witness the color-packed splendor of the Jane Watson Irwin Perennial Garden. Browse in Shop in the Garden or grab a bite to eat in one of the Garden’s cafes. The Botanical Garden is lush with color and beauty both indoors and out. Come see why The New York Botanical Garden is a perfect destination, right in your own backyard.

 

So you haven’t managed to get away for the Labor Day Weekend or you are visiting NYC this holiday weekend. If you are going further north of NYC, you might want to check out The NY Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo (www.recfair.com/NY) and if you way up north of NYC, The NY State Festival of Balloons in Dansville (www.nysfob.com) is happening this weekend. So if you are in the city or out of the city, regardless, NY has loads of events and fun-filled activities happening such as baseball games and special events, activities at major attractions, museums exhibits, night club themes and shopping stores with holiday and back-to-school sales as well as other discounts in other types of stores throughout the city. Restaurant week is still happening in NYC, check out www.nycvisit.com/RestaurantWeek/ as well as other restaurants that will have discounts to offer. Coney Island will have loads of activities and events along the boardwalk and within Astroland Amusement Park. Check out www.coneyisland.com for further details. Shakespeare in the park (www.publictheater.org) is still happening and it’s perfect for having a bbq picnic or sun bathing or playing sports in Central Park before seeing the show. Also, there are two major parades in the city that will keep you going this holiday weekend. Have a great holiday weekend. Here is information on the main parades:

Brazilian Day Festival – August 31^st

The event is celebrating its 24th anniversary in 2008, always taking place at 46th St., near Time Square, also known as Little Brazil. Presently, the crowd takes as much as 25 blocks surrounding Little Brazil.

The festival began to celebrate Brazil's Independence Day, which is on September 7. Since 1984, that small celebration has only grown, up to the point of attracting over 1.5 million people in 2007, according to the New York City Police Department (NYPD).

 

The flock is drawn from as close as Connecticut and as far as California. Perfectly bonding with the diverse population of New York City, people also come from Europe, Asia and Africa to join the festivities. Some travel in groups, by bus; some fly in; and others simply drive hundreds of miles. No one wants to be left out this party, which is now considered the world's biggest Brazilian event outside Brazil and the Big Apple's most respected ethnical event. In this way, the Brazilian Day festival is not simply a party celebration; it has transformed in a big opportunity to reach out for the huge Brazilian community in the United States. On that day, Brazilians join each other from all parts of the world-many come from Brazil just to attend the festival-and they show their pride, advertise their culture and live their nostalgic and anonymous feeling of being an immigrant away from home. Furthermore, they consolidate their presence in the United States bringing the Brazilian popular warmth, rich music heritage and other assimilations that unite the Americas' two largest nations.

West Indian Carnival Festival – September 1^st

 

 

41^st Annual

 

Labor Day Carnival Parade on Eastern Parkway - 9/1/08 - 8am-6pm

For the 41^st year in a row, Carnival lovers and revelers from across the United States, and abroad will converge in Brooklyn, New York in celebration of the West Indian Carnival Festival & Parade. The annual Brooklyn celebration begins Thursday, August 28^th with events and concerts on the Brooklyn Museum grounds, and culminates on Monday, September 1^st with the renowned Labor Day Carnival Parade on Eastern Parkway. This year’s theme “One Caribbean, Many Cultures” embodies the beauty and unity of the Caribbean and its’ people.

 

Kicking off the weekend’s events will be the Ladies Night concert featuring Trinidad & Tobago’s 2008 Road March Queen, Fayann Lyons, artists Nadia Batson and Antiguan Road March Queen, Tizzy. Also slated for the jam-packed weekend are performances by soca stars Shurwayne Winchester & the Big Band Traffik, Barbados’ Edwin Yearwood & Krosfyah, Kerwin Dubois, Grenada’s Road March King, Berbice and Hunter with the Dil-E-Nadan Orchestra. Calypso veterans - David Rudder, Scrunter, Barron, Swallow and Crazy will also perform.

 

The Labor Day Carnival Parade showcases the unique, vibrant and energetic Caribbean cultural heritage in New York City. Grand Marshals for the Carnival Parade include Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Governor David Paterson, Dr. Elizabeth Nunez, Provost –Medgar Evers College and Les Slater, Folklorist. The Grand Marshals will lead the festivities alongside Honorary Grand Marshals, Congressman Rangel and Comptroller Thompson. WIADCA president, Yolanda Lezama-Clark will join the Mayor & Governor to kick-off the festivities by cutting a ribbon at Utica Ave & Eastern Parkway at 11am. The line-up includes hundreds of VIP’s, Sponsors, over 70 Floats and thousands of colorful masqueraders depicting spectacular and breathtaking creations.

 

Over 3 million people are expected to attend again this year. Visitors from all across the USA, Canada, the Caribbean and other international locations attend the weekend celebration as part of their vacation holidays. Last year, an estimated 100,000 individuals attended the events during the five day weekend and millions of revelers are expected to celebrate during the Carnival celebration on Labor Day. Originating in Trinidad and Tobago, Carnival is a time of jubilation and wild abandon – its magnetism drawing greater audiences each year as people naturally gravitate to this happy and joyful occasion.

 

The West Indian-American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) is a not-for-profit, tax exempt organization established in 1967, and has been the driving force behind the West Indian Carnival Parade in Brooklyn. While WIADCA is most known for the affectionately named, "Labor Day Parade,” The main focus of the organization is to develop, teach and promote Caribbean arts and culture in the New York Metropolitan Area. WIADCA is the organizer and registered property owner of the West Indian American Day Carnival in New York City. The organization offers (3) Scholarship Funds: Arts & Culture, Medicine, Law & Business, benefiting more than 90 College student recipients to date.

All concerts are held at the Brooklyn Museum grounds,

 

900 Washington Ave, Brooklyn.

 

For other info, go to www.wiadca.org