Archives for December 2019

Review: Why the Big Apple Circus is Still the Best Outing for Families

December 18, 2019

Traveling circuses come and go, but there’s only one quintessential show in New York: the Big Apple Circus. For more than 40 years, the iconic event has brought smiles to children and adults alike and this year was no different.

Nestled behind the Lincoln Center on the city’s Upper West Side, the big top tent is back with even more flair, outrageous feats and delightful treats for the entire family to enjoy.

My children and I have attended the Big Apple Circus a couple times in the past, but this was by far one of our best and most memorable experiences. This time, we had the opportunity to check out the new add-on VIP option. To say this perk was amazing would be an understatement.

As soon as we pulled back the velvet curtain and walked inside the VIP area, we were transported to an immersive carnival-like hideaway adjacent to the main stage festivities. From unlimited popcorn and cotton candy to a mini stage perfect for photo-ops (there’s a dress-up rack w/props!), the VIP lounge is the cherry on top of an afternoon or evening of festivities. Plus, it also has its own private bathrooms. Need I say more?

Well, the show itself is chockfull of dazzling new acts. With aerial acrobats, cat tricks, outrageous wheel ruses, and more captivating stunts, it’s a feast for the eyes and senses. Led by Afro-Latina, ringmaster Storm Marrero, the show is incredibly entertaining from beginning to end. What’s more? Every seat inside the tent is great. From just about every angle, you get full view of the ring, which puts you close to the action. It’s the perfect outing for kids to have their minds blown, unlock curiosities and take their imaginations to new heights! And it gives parents the opportunity to sit back and rediscover the beauty of childhood wonder.

If you’re looking for a fun, unforgettable experience for your family, look no further than the Big Apple Circus. You won’t be disappointed!

Below, check out some pics from our recent visit:

Visit Big Apple Circus for tickets, dates and more information.

*I was provided tickets for review purposes only. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Have you gone to the circus this year? What are your favorite holiday outings?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

BGG’s Holiday Gift Guide 2019

December 13, 2019

If you haven’t started your holiday shopping yet, don’t worry there’s still time. Plus, I’m taking all of the guesswork out of your gift list.

Read on to find out my top picks for everyone who made the grade this holiday season.

For the gadget guru

Google Nest Hub

What did we do before Google? I guess you could ask their latest innovation that very question! The company who brought us the world’s best search engine is answering all of our queries right in our home with the Google Nest Hub. Plus, this nifty gadget doubles as a frame that works in conjunction with Google Photos to bring all of your best shots and wonderful memories to life. Oh, and if that wasn’t enough, it controls and manages everything from lights to thermostats via voice activation.

Available here, $80

For the creative kid

Anna’s Canoe Expedition

If the child in your life asks, “Can we build a snowman?” Tell them, sure you can! Unlock their imagination with building blocks that only Lego can bring. In celebration of Disney’s Frozen II, this set features Olaf and Anna and will make any mini architect and Frozen-obsessed child beam with joy.

Available here, $19.

For the young Star Wars fan

Star Wars: A Merry Sithmas Pop-Up Book

With the new Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker movie opening this weekend, this interactive pop-up book is sure to be a hit with young sci-fi enthusiasts. With festive stickers and fun cut-outs, Star Wars fans will feel the force of merriment as they create scenes from a galaxy far, far away.

Available here, $16.

For the self-care lover

Dove Relaxing Lavender Range (Whipped Body Cream)

Nothing says at-home pampering like Dove. The quintessential body brand’s new lavender range smells divine and works wonders for dry, parched skin. Infused with coconut milk for a nourishing effect, the whipped body cream is a rich, luxurious formula that leaves skin feeling silky and smooth. A set of these body creams will make the spa-loving person in your life swoon with delight.

Available here, $8

For the gamer

Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games 2020

Who’s the most trailblazing character in the history of video games? Super Mario, of course! Well, he’s back and this time he’s partnering with Sega’s fastest hedgehog, Sonic. Yup, the iconic characters are teaming up in Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games 2020. Available exclusively on Nintendo Switch, the sixth installment of this groundbreaking series features more than 30 action-packed sports to play. From skateboarding to surfing, this game will be at the top of any die-hard gamer’s list.

Available here, $60

For the chilly homebody

The Comfy

Everyone has that friend or family member who’s a homebody and is always cold. The Comfy is a godsend for those who enjoy wrapping up on the couch and watching Netflix. Part sweatshirt, part blanket, this incredibly cozy and billowy sherpa-lined getup is the stuff of dreams for the relaxing set.

Available here, $39

For the beauty buff

IT Cosmetics

They say the eyes are the windows into your soul. If that’s true, why not make your peepers pop? In a good way of course! IT Cosmetics’ newest gift set is perfect for defining brows, elongating lashes and eliminating dark circles. Ensure the beauty buff in your life always puts her best eyes forward with this limited edition gift.

Available here, $26

For the guy who has everything

LARQ Self-cleaning water bottle

Unless you’re a cactus, hopefully you’re hydrating throughout the day. For the guy who has it all, give him the gift of H20. This self-cleaning water bottle provides on-the-go water purification and takes the hassle of out washing those hard-to-reach spots. Engineered with advanced technology, the LARQ Bottle uses a UV-C LED light to clean the inner surface of the bottle. We’ll drink to that!

Available here, $95

What would you like to see under your Christmas tree this year?

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‘Paddington Gets in a Jam’ Makes Off-Broadway Debut December 13th

December 9, 2019

Everyone’s favorite British bear is grabbing his suitcase and heading to the Big Apple. That’s right, Paddington Bear is making his off-Broadway debut with the new stage production, “Paddington Gets in a Jam,” opening December 13 at DR2 Theatre in Union Square. The delightful production is scheduled to run 12 weeks through March 6.

A follow-up to Jonathan Rockefeller’s stage adaptation of the award-winning “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” “Paddington Gets Into a Jam” will feature puppets created by the acclaimed production company.

Known for his misadventures and mishaps, the marmalade-loving bear is back and up to his old tricks in this theatrical performance. This time he’s minding his own business making his favorite sweet treat (marmalade of course), but runs out of sugar. On his quest to borrow some from a grumpy neighbor, chaos ensues in typical Paddington fashion. “Paddington Gets in a Jam” takes young audiences on a fun ride filled with humor and charm.

If your children are already Paddington fans or even if they aren’t familiar, “Paddington Gets in a Jam” is a great way to introduce them to live theater.

Recommended for children ages 3 to 8, “Paddington Gets in a Jam” has a 60-minute run time with no intermission.

For tickets and more information, please visit Paddington Gets in a Jam.

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Light Up Your Holiday Season with the Hello Panda Festival

December 6, 2019

Nothing shines brighter during the holidays than twinkling lights. Well, if bold, colorful beams put you in the holiday spirit, then you’re in for a real treat!

The world’s largest lantern festival in North America has arrived. Yep, the Hello Panda Festival is here and lighting up the Big Apple. Boasting more than 120 lantern exhibits, live entertainment and interactive opportunities galore, this incredible event is the stuff of dreams.

Located at Citi Field in Queens, the majestic experience is full of merriment perfect for the holiday season. From glimmering Christmas trees to festive glow-in-the-dark seesaws and swings, this magical event is sure to mesmerize your kids and unleash your inner child. It’s truly a feast for the eyes that celebrates the traditional Chinese art of lantern making with handcrafted displays created by world-class artisans.

Oh, and if the delightful light exhibits don’t get you as excited as light bites, you’re also in luck. With more than 60 international food vendors curated by The World’s Fare, even the most jaded foodie will find something deliciously interesting to eat. Plus, the festival is chockfull of illuminating cultural performances and art activations throughout.

Light up your winter with this can’t-miss celebration. It’s sure to bring mega-watt smiles to children and adults alike.

The Hello Panda Festival opens today, December 6th and the lights go out January 26, 2020.

The Hello Panda Festival opens today, December 6th (5pm – 10pm) and the lights go out January 26, 2020. Click here for tickets and more information. If you’d like to check it out, I’m offering a special 10% discount for my readers. Simply use code: IW57 at checkout (valid through December 19th).

**I was given free tickets to attend the pre-opening celebration for review purposes only . All thoughts and opinions are my own.

What activities are you looking forward to doing with your family this holiday season?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

Macy’s Santaland Makes You Believe in the Magic of Christmas

December 5, 2019

Does Christmas even happen if your kids don’t visit Santa Claus?

For the second year in a row, my kids have gone to Macy’s iconic Santaland for the quintessential holiday photo with jolly ole’ St. Nick. This year marks the 39th year that the famed department store has offered this festive opportunity for families right in the heart of Manhattan.

Like last year, the space was incredibly inviting, festive and oozing with winterized flair. From dancing pigs to trains zipping around a snowcapped cityscape, the merriment of the season was on full display along our enchanted journey.

Photo Courtesy of Macy’s, Inc./Mike Coppola

As we boarded the the “train” to Santaland, we were greeted with elves decked out in Christmas-themed getups. Think green and white stockings, red shirts and yellow smocks—the perfect attire for Santa’s hardworking workshop helpers in the North Pole.

Throughout Santaland, my children’s eyes sparkled with delight as they saw animatronic polar bears, a massive sleigh stuffed with toys and teddy bears, trains zipping around and a grand Christmas tree twinkling with colorful lights. To say they were mesmerized would be an understatement.

Photo Courtesy of Macy’s, In.c/Mike Coppola

Additionally, there were elves making wooden bird houses along the path that made the interactive experience exciting and memorable.

Once we made our way through the enchanted Santaland, we got to meet the big guy, Santa Claus himself. Since representation matters in all forms, I was extremely pleased that choosing a Black Santa was an option. Since my kids had originally met Black Santa back at our local mall in Brooklyn, seeing him again at Macy’s Herald Square played nicely into my children’s vision of Santa Claus.

Not only was Santa warm-spirited and attentive, but he was also super funny! While I’m sure there will be a rotating group of Santa’s, I’d bet that most are trained to be like the awesome one we had. My kids beamed as they told him what they wanted and he even got my husband and me to tap into our childhood and share our Christmas wish lists.

If you’re looking for an affordable (entry is free and photo packages start at $22) dose of holiday cheer, Macy’s Santaland is a must! Plus, the classic photos and magical memories will last a lifetime.

Macy’s Santaland Herald Square is currently open and runs through December 24. For reservations and more information, be sure to check out Macy’s Santaland.

Do you children take holiday photos with Santa Claus?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 2 Comments