Archives for December 2022

Things to Do: Fun Last-Minute Holiday Events New York City

If you’re like me, you can’t believe Christmas is less than a week away! That means there are only a few days left to partake in the myriad festive holiday activities around New York City. Although the clock may be ticking, there’s still time to get in on the fun.

There’s no better place than the Big Apple to tap into the holiday spirit. It’s no secret that the city that never sleeps really comes to life during the holiday season. With stores bedecked in glittering lights, streets flanked by larger-than-life ornaments, and gorgeous decorations dangling from light posts, the concrete jungle seamlessly transforms into a winter wonderland.

In case you’re still looking for fun holiday photo opportunities, shows and memorable events for you and your family, you’re in luck. I’ve rounded up three outings that will run through the New Year.

North Pole Express Bus Tour

ticket to north pole express nyc

All aboard! North Pole Express by TopView invites guests to take a ride on a double-decker bus decked out in decorations as they marvel at the spectacular holiday sights around New York City. Guests aboard the holiday-themed bus are treated to an interactive, fun-filled evening from start to finish. With jolly elves caroling, storytelling and even a meet-and-greet with Old St. Nick, guests are instantly put in the holiday spirit. The fun doesn’t end there. Passengers are also given delicious hot cocoa, cookies, a Santa hat and cozy blanket to keep them warm during the magical ride. Plus, guests get a special gift from Santa to commemorate the festive experience.

For tickets and more information, please click here. Brown Girl Gumbo readers can get a 5% discount by using: KARLA5 at checkout. North Pole Express runs through

New Victory’s Circus Abyssinia

Photo by Alexis Buatti Ramos/New Victory Theater

You’ve seen circuses, but you’ve never seen a circus like New Victory’s Circus Abyssinia: Tulu. Inspired by Ethiopian Olympic icon and distance runner Derartu Tulu, this family circus is a dazzling fusion of incredible acrobatics, mind-bending tricks and unbelievable stunts. Plus, it’s backed by hard-hitting Ethiopian beats and soulful tunes that make you want to get out of your seat and bust a move. As the first circus created entirely by Ethiopian artists, Circus Abyssinia: Tulu celebrates Ethiopia’s unique, rich culture.

From an awe-inspiring contortionist to entertaining flame jugglers, this mesmerizing, family-friendly show is guaranteed to make audiences smile, laugh, and marvel in disbelief.

For tickets and more information, please click here. Circus Abyssinia: Tulu runs through January 1, 2023 at New Victory Theater.

Amaze Light Festival

Photo Courtesy of Amaze Light Festival

The holidays would be incomplete with out twinkling bulbs lighting up city streets. Visitors to the Amaze Light Festival are immersed in a unique, illuminated holiday experience they won’t soon forget. Located at Citi Field in Queens, the sprawling light festival boasts millions of lights making it a must-see holiday destination. With colossal 3D lighted decor and festive opportunities at every turn, the experience is captivating for kids and adults alike. What’s more, there’s an Arctic Express Train Ride, Thrill Hill (tubing), and holiday performances by the event’s mascots Zing and Sparky, adding even more fun for holiday enthusiasts. Plus, there’s even a massive candy store on-site, as well as several food vendors throughout.

Visitors can upgrade to VIP status where they can get exclusive perks like complimentary TK, order alcoholic beverages and warm up in heated lounge areas. A trip to Amaze Light Festival is sure to brighten your holidays.

For tickets and more information, click here. The Amaze Light Festival runs through January 8, 2023.

What fun activities have you done or are planning to do this holiday season?

Meta Wants to Make Your Holidays Merry and Immersive with Quest 2 and Ray-Ban Stories

Last week, I had the pleasure of checking out Meta’s Reality Labs holiday press preview here in New York City. 

If you know me, you already know how excited I was to attend since I’m a major fan of all-things virtual reality (VR). If there’s a VR element associated with something, I’m all in. Whether it’s a thrill ride (like my faves: RiseNY and Avatar Flight of Passage), museum exhibition or any kind of demonstration, VR adds an exciting layer to any experience. 

Needless to say, I couldn’t wait to learn more about the Meta Quest 2. For those unfamiliar with the device, it’s a wireless, at-home VR headset powered by Meta (formerly known as Facebook). You can play a variety of games and apps, watch Netflix, and of course, socialize with other people in the metaverse. It’s a cool and immersive way to connect with family and friends. The best part? It’s easy to set up. Admittedly, I am not a fan of reading complicated, complex instructions on how to get things up and running. Thankfully, getting the Quest 2 going is super easy and intuitive. 

Meta Quest 2 starts at $399

At the event, I tried out a trio of games that catapulted me into another world. I started out with Beat Saber, a super fun and music-centric game that put my rhythm and coordination to the test. I followed up with a game of table tennis. Let’s just say, it took me a minute or two to get into the swing of it, but once I did — I had a ball! Last but not least, I took a trip to my hometown of Chicago via an app called Wooorld. Yes, I wound up in the Windy City without leaving the Big Apple thanks to the Meta Quest Pro, which is the latest, most advanced model. 

If you thought Meta couldn’t get even more high-tech, there’s more than meets the eye. Case in point: Ray-Ban Stories Smart Glasses. The brand has partnered with the popular eyewear retailer to create glasses that can take photos, videos, make calls via Messenger and even play music from your preferred streaming service. You can easily upload content to your Instagram feed via Stories or give it a coveted spot on your grid. No matter how you share your photos and videos, Ray-Ban captures the moment without the hassle of pulling out your phone. What’s more, it’s voice activated for a hands-free experience. Simply say, “Hey Facebook, take a pic,” and voilà, it’s done! Pretty cool, right?

ray-ban stories smart glasses
Ray-Ban Stories Smart Glasses start at $299

If you’re looking for holiday gifts for your tech-obsessed teen or favorite tech-savvy family member, these new options from Meta are a surefire way to make their holidays merry and bright. 

Also, if you’re in the New York City area, be sure to check out the Meta pop-up shop for a chance to try out the new Quest 2 and Ray-Ban Stories. Located at 666 Broadway, it’s free and open to the public now through December 11th.

Hours are as follows:

Monday – Thursday: 12pm – 7pm EST

Friday & Saturday: 10am – 8pm EST

Sunday: 11am – 6pm EST

Have you ever used a virtual reality headset? If so, what did you think?