Memphis’ Pink Palace Crafts Fair Draws Near
Arts and crafts fans will be delighted to hear that the 2008 Pink Palace Crafts Fair is well on its way to Memphis with a scheduled date of October 2 – 5. The event will be held at Audubon Park, with all proceeds benefiting the Memphis Museum System. Visitors can expect to find a wide range of arts and crafts at the festival including jewelry, clothing, decorations, dolls, cookbooks, pottery, artwork, furniture and much more! Now approaching its 36th year, the Pink Palace Crafts Fair has been drawing crowds of over 30,000 people to the Memphis area annually, and now is your year to experience what keeps the people coming back year after year.
Those interested in learning more about the craft festival’s namesake will find an intriguing time of entertainment and education at the Pink Palace Museum. The exhibits at the Pink Palace are an eclectic bunch with everything ranging from pre-historic dinosaurs to the Piggly Wiggly grocery chain, though most exhibits are connected by being related to the Mid-South in some way. So whether your interests lie in the purely historical, sociological or somewhere in between, the Pink Palace Museum should be an interesting romp through the history of the Mid-South.
Live the Southwest Culture in the Grand Canyon with the PRCA Rodeo
Celebrate this Labor Day in the rustic setting of the Grand Canyon area with the Williams Labor Day PRCA Rodeo. Held each Labor Day at the Bob Dean Arena at the Williams Rodeo Grounds, the Williams Labor Day PRCA Rodeo offers visitors authentic rodeo action. This year’s event is set to be the last stop of the Turquoise Circuit, ensuring that each rider will be giving it their all as they fight for the last few, remaining points of the season. Events set for the rodeo are typical, with everything ranging from barrel racing to the always popular lariat tricks competition.
And while rodeos are certainly a time-honored tradition throughout the Southwest, travelers will be able to gain a more complete understanding of the Grand Canyon area culture through a Havasupai Heli-Hiking Tour. Along this outdoors adventure you’ll journey 4,000 feet into the depths of the Grand Canyon by helicopter to the Havasupai Village. Once at the village you’ll have a range of options open to you, including simply mingling with the locals, shopping and even touring the area by horseback.
Of course, a visit to the Grand Canyon area isn’t really a visit to the Grand Canyon area at all without a visit to the actual Canyon. And there are few ways more nostalgic to go about seeing one of the seven natural wonders of the world than to travel by train. Along the Grand Canyon Railway Budd Coach you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise from Williams to the Grand Canyon, and even have the ability to explore the actual Canyon on foot before making the return trip to Williams.
Find a Traditional Taste of Virginia in Williamsburg
While the Williamsburg is most noted for its Colonial theme and unique historic attractions found throughout the area, visitors may be surprised to find a lot more going on than history lessons. Not to downplay Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown or Yorktown, they are all certainly fascinating and entertaining activities, but there is a lot going on in present day Virginia to explore while on vacation. From the area wildlife to the fruits of the land, each can offer an interesting journey into what Virginia means in today’s society.
Situated on a 320 acre vineyard, the Williamsburg Winery offers not only amazing wine, but an interesting look into the wine-making process as well. As you explore Virginia’s largest winery you’ll come across a variety of grapes including Chardonnay, Cabernet, Sauvignon, Seyval, Merlot and Vidal. However, the best part of the tour is when you are taken to the reserve cellars and given the chance to sample twelve of the wineries award-winning reserve wines. Whether you’re only interested in the finish product or are curious as to how wine is made, the Williamsburg Winery Reserve Tour & Tasting can offer the best of both worlds.
Though nature is all around us, it can often times be hard to capture in its full beauty. However, with a visit to the Virginia Living Museum you’ll find all of Virginia on full-display through a variety of exhibits. Part park, aquarium, zoo and science center, the Virginia Living Museum offers a variety of ways to explore natural Virginia. In particular, the Virginia Living Museum features a ¾ mile nature trail, Appalachian Mountain habitat walkthrough, Cypress Swamp habitat walkthrough, 30,000 gallon aquarium, and numerous hands-on experiences as well. No matter which part of Virginia’s nature you’re interested in, you’ll find it all at the Virginia Living Museum.
Experience the Range of Live Entertainment in Myrtle Beach, SC
While most may think of sandy beaches and great golf options when Myrtle Beach is mentioned, the area is also home to a variety of world-class theaters that can provide a great night of entertainment in a variety of formats for those visiting the area. From high energy musical offerings to mystical experiences of wonder and amazement, theaters such as The Carolina Opry, Alabama Theater and Palace Theater can all provide a great night of family entertainment that is sure to highlight any vacation to the Myrtle Beach area.
Le Grand Cirque - The Palace Theater
With a vibrant, unique cast, astounding acts of agility and athleticism and story that is all at once fanciful and relevant, Le Grand Cirque is a magical trip into the dreams and wonders of humanity. Those new to the world of Cirque can expect a variety of circus style acts including high-wire artists, jugglers, tumblers, trapeze and more as a strange, colorful cast tells a tale that is sure to capture the imagination.
The Carolina Opry - Carolina Opry
Country music fans are sure to find The Carolina Opry’s blend of high-energy entertainment and classic country sound to be just the thing for a night on the town in Myrtle Beach. Of course, country isn’t the only offering served up at The Carolina Opry. Right alongside the twang of steel guitars you’ll find sounds from Broadway, pop, gospel and even experience the dance troupe All That from the hit show “America’s Got Talent.”
One The Show - Alabama Theater
Held in the same theater that legendary country group Alabama built, One The Show offers a fast-paced, always entertaining offering of variety entertainment. Throughout the performance guests will find gospel, rock, country, pop, swing and many other forms of music complete with detailed costume changes, different stage settings and an always electrified atmosphere.
Frightful Fun for the Entire Family at Disney World!
August 19, 2008 by admin
Filed under Walt Disney World
Halloween may still be over a month off, but Disney World is already gearing up for the holiday with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween. Held at the Magic Kingdom on select dates from September 5 through October 31, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween will feature a number of special events and exhibits in addition to the Magic Kingdom’s always stellar line-up of rides, shows and dining options. In particular, the park will feature a special Halloween parade, trick-or-treating options throughout the park and a special fireworks display. And with a toned-down emphasis on the frightful aspects of Halloween, all ages are sure to enjoy the magic and excitement of Disney World’s Magic Kingdom during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween.
For those looking to attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween there are a number of options to consider when visiting Disney World. Featuring four complete theme parks, a downtown area and two water parks, there’s quite a bit to do - and you can experience as much or little as you like. Whether looking for a one-day admission into Magic Kingdom to experience Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween or looking for an entire vacation experience with a 5-day park hopper pass that will grant admission to all of the parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, MGM - Disney Studios, Animal Kingdom), there’s an experience perfect for you and your family waiting at Disney World.
Keeping with the Disney World theme, Downtown Disney is home to one of the most creative and awe-inspiring shows throughout Orlando, if not the entire United States - Cirque du Soleil La Nouba. This impressive Cirque offering presents all of the quality acrobatics and artistry that fans of the series have come to expect. Over 60 performers take to the over 40 foot tall stage for a show that combines the limits of the human imagination with the limits of the human body.
New York State Fair Offers Agricultural Look at the Big Apple
The Great New York State Fair is once again returning to New York City, and is looking to be one of the best offerings in the fair’s history. Set to run from August 21 through September 1, the Great New York State Fair will house agricultural and livestock competitions, antique tractor displays, daily parades, special live concerts and much, much more! In particular, this year’s fair has pulled in a variety of top-name acts to perform alongside the fair; and while these special concerts are not included in admission to the fair, fair admission is included in the concert tickets!
Visitors looking for convenient, fun transportation while in the city of New York City may be interested in looking into a New York Water Taxi Pass to help in beating the crowds around the city. Aside from offering a cruise of the New York City waterways, the New York Water Taxis are extremely practical, and offer a total of ten stops along its loop.
Along with simply getting around The Big Apple, most visitors will be interested in a traditional New York experience while visiting the Great New York State Fair need look no further than Broadway. From classic offerings including Phantom of the Opera, Chicago and Rent to newer productions including Spamalot, Wicked and Avenue Q, there’s something for nearly every taste waiting on Broadway. Even if you think the theatre is definitely not for you, you may be surprised after browsing the current options on Broadway.
Experience International Comedy with Vancouver’s Global ComedyFest
Whether celebrating comedy, film or the performance arts, Canada always seems to offer festivals marked by distinct talent and unfound gems alike, and Vancouver’s Global ComedyFest is certainly no exception. The Vancouver Global ComedyFest, formerly known as the Vancouver International Comedy Festival, has routinely brought together some of the biggest known and unknown names in comedy year after year, and 2008 is certainly following suit. Todd Barry, Janeane Garofalo, Carol Burnett, Andy Richter, Brian Posehn, and Tim Meadows is just a small sample of confirmed acts for this year’s gathering with plenty more to follow. Whether interested in seeing a particular act or hoping to sample the breadth of the festival, the Vancouver Global ComedyFest is shaping up to be another successful venture that should please all visitors.
Of course, the Vancouver Global ComedyFest is far from the only unique offering visitors will find while in Vancouver. With lush natural beauty, sparkling views of the Pacific Ocean and unique city settings, Vancouver is a dream location for experiencing the wild. And with the Royal Victoria Whale Watch Excursion you’ll take to the waters as you cruise the Pacific and Gulf Islands exploring not only whales but other marine wildlife. And best of all, you’ll have a knowledgeable guide on-hand to help offer backdrops to all the sights seen throughout your experience.
Aside from the constant stream of talent that visits the city of Vancouver and the unbelievable natural sights that surround it, there is the city of Vancouver itself to explore. With the Vancouver Highlights Tour you’ll embark on a 5 hour tour of Vancouver as you explore BC Place, Gastown, Stanley Park, Granville Island and the numerous other landmarks of the city.
Dine, Dance & Sightsee Along Chicago’s Waters
Departing from Nay Pier, the Architectural River Tour is an interesting way to explore Chicago that combines the city’s relationship to its waterways with its historic architectural setting. This journey takes travelers along the Chicago River by way of double-decker boat as more than 40 distinct, man-made landmarks are seen. From experiencing the unique way in which Chicago and its surrounding bodies of water interact to witnessing the ingenuity of mankind up close, the Architectural River Tour is an interesting twist to experiencing a classic city.
Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise
The Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise is much the same as the lunch cruise, with the notable exception of the romantic sunset serving as a backdrop to your adventure. Whether looking to perfectly set the mood or simply wanting to save the party for the night hours, the Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise is a great way to spend the evening in Chicago. Just as with the lunch cruise, a mouth-watering buffet, quality live entertainment, and dancing and sightseeing opportunities are all offered throughout the dinner cruise for a varied time of entertainment. During your next visit to Chicago make a night to remember with the Spirit of Chicago Dinner Cruise
Chicago Odyssey Moonlight Lounge Cruise
If you’re not quite in the mood for either a full meal or intense time of sightseeing, then the Chicago Odyssey Moonlight Lounge Cruise may be just the option to please. Along this cruise you’ll take to Lake Michigan for a late night of mingling accompanied by entertainment and light hors d’oeuvres. Nova Lox pastries, sirloin crostini and a chocolate fountain with fruit will serve as delectable treats while the sights of Chicago and atmosphere of the Odyssey Moonlight Lounge Cruise perfectly paint an elegant, romantic time in Chicago. There’s no better way to spend your late night hours in Chicago than by enjoying all the city has to offer aboard this unique cruise option.
Ozarks Fall Farmfest Showcases the Produce of the Ozarks
August 15, 2008 by admin
Filed under Branson MO
This coming October 5 – 7 the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds will be hosting the Ozarks Fall Farmfest. Located just thirty minutes north of Branson, the Ozarks Fall Farmfest is a one of a kind look at the produce of the Ozarks. Nearly 800 booths feature a variety of both products and services ranging from tractors and livestock to feed and general crafts. Along with the huge sales area, visitors will also find exhibition areas featuring cows, horses, sheep and llamas. So whether you’re a livestock aficionado or simply looking to immerse yourself in the culture of the Ozarks while visiting Branson, the Ozarks Fall Farmfest can be an entertaining look into Southwest Missouri.
As for more traditional entertainment options when visiting Branson, Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede offers travelers a comprehensive evening of competition, entertainment and great dining! Equestrian arts are placed at the forefront as the show’s participants battle it out in a number of horse races and other events with each side – the north and the south – cheering for the respective challenger. Of course, throughout the show you’ll be treated to a truly southern dining experience complete with rotisserie chicken, creamy vegetable soup, corn on the cob, herb-basted potato and more!
Prepare for the Tennessee State Fair in Nashville, TN
August 15, 2008 by admin
Filed under Nashville TN
This September 5 through 14 the Tennessee State Fair will once again be returning Tennessee State Fairgrounds with an exciting line-up of live shows, thrill rides, shopping and competitions. The fair will be open every day during its duration, and is set to open at 10 a.m. daily, except for September 7 when the fair is set to open at 3 p.m. Events of particular interest for this year’s fair include the always popular Tennessee State Fair Flea Market, Tigers of India exhibit, Jungle High Dive Show and the Toyota Trucks Off-Road On-Site Adventure. Whether looking for a quick day of entertainment or hoping to take in all the fair has to offer, the Tennessee State Fair is a great reason to visit Nashville this September.
Of course, even if you sole reason for visiting Nashville will be to attend the Tennessee State Fair, you can’t pass up the chance to experience the legendary Grand Ole Opry concert series live. Known world wide for its long standing tradition of featuring only the biggest names in Country and keeping true to the tradition of the genre, the Grand Ole Opry is considered by many to be the main draw in all of Tennessee. Trace Adkins, Clint Black, Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Lorrie Morgan and Trisha Yearwood is just a small sample of the star power that belongs to the Grand Ole Opry, and you never know when you’ll see these top-notch acts take the stage! From the raucous Hank Williams to fan-friendly Dierks Bentley, the Grand Ole Opry has been showcasing only the best in country music for over 80 years, and continues to be the hottest ticket in Nashville!
Those looking to completely flesh out their visit to Nashville will also want to look into the Country Music Hall of Fame. As a definitive who’s who of country music, this 40,000 square foot museum is a veritable timeline of country music. Numerous exhibits cover the full range of country with a variety of memorabilia, audio and visual and interactive experiences all ready to immerse you in both the standing power of this decidedly American creation and the subtle changes the genre has taken over the years. Whether you’re an avid country fan or even think you detest the genre, you’re bound to find something of interest waiting in the hallowed halls of the Country Music Hall of Fame.
