Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day Offer Cultural Celebration in Deadwood, SD
Enjoy the last leg of winter with the near constant celebration offered in Deadwood and the surrounding Mount Rushmore area this year as both Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day stand as pillars of the area’s entertainment in 2010!
Held February 5 and 6, Mardi Gras in Deadwood will offer a lively setting the likes of which only a Mardi Gras celebration could provide while simultaneously remaining fun for the entire family! On Friday, February 5, things will kick off with the People’s Parade and Mardi Gras Coronation Competition. Everyone is encouraged to participate in the opening parade, where at the end a king and queen for 2010 will be coronated.
The following day, the celebration will continue with the always anticipated annual Mardi Gras Parade and Cajun Cook-Off! Whether a native of the Cajun culture or simply looking to heat up the last leg of winter, Deadwood’s Mardi Gras celebrations offer an always lively time!
And just a month later, on March 13, the pubs of Deadwood will offer a conglomeration of parties as visitors and locals bounce from one establishment to another during the annual Pub Crawl. An always lively time, Deadwood’s Pub Crawl offers the perfect time to let your hair loose while enjoying the natural beauty and historical sites of the Mount Rushmore Area.
Those planning on visiting Deadwood and the surrounding Mount Rushmore area for either Mardi Gras or St. Patrick’s Day can browse and book from a variety of lodging options online. Additionally, a variety of activities and attractions can be viewed to help round out your visit to the Black Hills!
New Orleans’ Notorious Mardi Gras
The Christmas season is quickly coming to a close, and whether you’re excited to get back to some semblance of normalcy or sad that the cheery holiday is over, it’s nice to know you have something to look forward to. No, I’m not talking about New Year’s Eve. For the city of New Orleans, this holiday is even bigger than New Year’s. It’s a little occasion known as Mardi Gras.
While Mardi Gras is tied into the Catholic season of Lent, you don’t have to be Catholic to enjoy this momentous celebration. Mardi Gras is a festival that takes place for 42 days beginning with the Feast of the Epiphany and ending with the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday. The true Mardi Gras is celebrated on Fat Tuesday, which is always the Tuesday 46 days before Easter.
For the 2010 festivities, the celebration will begin on January 6 and end with a New Orleans-style affair on February 16. These 42 days will be filled with parties, parades, dances, and balls. The festivities are presided over by Rex, an honor that falls to a new person every year, and certain decisions by past Rexes have lasted through the decades. For example, the official Mardi Gras colors (purple, green, and gold) were chosen by the Rex of the 1872 festival.
If you’re planning to be in the area, there are several places that will keep you close to all of the festivities. For a budget friendly hotel, you should consider the Best Western French Quarter. This hotel is located only three blocks from Bourbon Street, so you won’t miss a thing! If you’re seeking a few more amenities, you should consider the 3-Star Holiday Inn French Quarter. This hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the French Quarter, keeping you only a few steps from the center of the celebration.
If a luxury trip to the Big Easy is how you want to celebrate Mardi Gras, there are two stand-out choices for your hotel. Both 4-Star hotels have everything you might need, and a few things you’ll definitely want. The Renaissance Arts Hotel is only a few blocks from the Riverwalk and less than one mile from French Quarter. This incredible location will keep you in the heart of the festival and still provide for a little peace and quiet when you need it. Another option is the Astor Crowne Plaza Hotel nestled on the corner where Bourbon Street meets Canal Street. If you’re looking for a hotel that lets you walk out the front door and right into the festivities, this is the one.
Whether you’re headed down to New Orleans for the fabulous parades and parties, the famous Mardi Gras beads, or the scrumptious traditional king cake, New Orleans is waiting with open arms.
Celebrate 2010 On The Las Vegas Strip
Times Square is the destination most associated with New Year’s Eve, but who wants to deal with the crushing crowds that descend on Times Square come December 31? If you’re looking for a New Year’s celebration that allows for some elbow room, Las Vegas is the place for you.
With a nickname like “Sin City” it’s easy to think that Las Vegas’ New Year’s Eve celebration would be a rowdy one. If that’s what you’re thinking, you would be right. The Vegas Strip opens it’s doors for one night only, making the Strip one big party. Lights shows and pyrotechnics light up the city from the roofs of the casinos and when the clock strikes twelve, computer-choreographed fireworks light up the skies.
The New Year’s Eve festivities that consume Sin City should not be missed, and if you are planning to be in the area there are several hotels to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly room or a suite in the lap of luxury, Vegas can accommodate.
Check out the Las Vegas page on Vacations Made Easy to book your hotel or reserve a vacation package to make your New Year’s Eve as easy as watching the ball drop!
Celebrate Elvis Week in Memphis, TN
For one week every August, Elvis fans from all over the world have united in Memphis, Tennessee to share their love and memories of the one and only King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Die-hard Elvis fans will not want to miss the festivities in store this year, as Memphis will once again be transformed into a week-long, city-wide celebration of the life and accomplishments of Elvis Presley. Make sure to take part in this truly unique celebration by scheduling your Memphis summer vacation during Elvis Week!
This year’s annual Elvis Week celebration will take place from August 8 through August 16 for eight full days of special Graceland tours, gatherings, concerts, Elvis films, and more. A great way to mark the occasion is to take part in Elvis Presley’s Graceland Platinum Experience. Only the White House sees more annual visitors than this historic mansion, which also features the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum and Sincerely Elvis Memorabilia Museum on the 14 acres of property. The tour allows you to gain more insight into the personal side of Elvis Presley than you could ever get otherwise.
A full week of events are on schedule during the week. Enjoy a fun evening at Club Elvis for dancing and listening to Elvis’ famous hits. Or, check out the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest Finals, where fans compete for the right to be named the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist of the year. End your experience by attending the Candlelight Vigil for a quiet evening of paying tribute to the music legend. The ceremony lasts until the early hours of Sunday, August 16, the date of Elvis’ passing.
Whether you’re a huge Elvis fan or you’re simply looking for some fun festivals and celebrations to fill your Memphis vacation itinerary, Elvis Week is a popular annual event you won’t find anywhere else.
Enjoy an Ozarks Fourth of July
July 1, 2009 by admin
Filed under Branson MO, VME
Branson and the surrounding Ozarks area is a great destination for this upcoming holiday weekend. With a variety of July 4th celebrations going on and the great shows and activities Branson is known for, you will be sure to have a memorable weekend.
No July 4th festivity is complete without some fireworks and great food! The Spirit of ’76 is one of Branson’s most popular July 4th events. It is hosted by the Veteran’s Task Force and features free flags and ice cream. Additionally, there will be live music. This event takes place the morning of July 4th at the Branson Landing. For a classic fireworks show, check out the Fireburst Fourth of July Fireworks Show on Table Rock Lake. The perfect viewing spot is in nearby Kimberling City, or you can rent a boat and watch the fireworks from the lake. The thirty-minute long fireworks show begins at 9:30 p.m., and other event features include live music, games, and concession stands. Other Branson sites with an evening fireworks show include Chateau on the Lake, Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama, Rockaway Beach, and Downtown Hollister.
Seasoned shoppers know that the July 4th weekend is a great time to check out the stores for some great holiday sales. Branson Landing is one of Branson’s most popular shopping destinations due to its great stores and restaurants. Stores include a Belk Department Store, a Bass Pro Shop, and many more. On July 3 beginning at 8 p.m., Branson Landing is hosting its second annual fireworks show. Before the show, a Journey tribute band will give a concert.
For some great sales on already discounted merchandise, check out the Branson Factory Merchant Outlets for their July 4th sidewalk sale. This shopping center features discount stores from Carter’s, Pfaltzgraff, Nautica, and more. You can pick up a snack and rest from your shopping with a stop at the A & W All-American Food or Auntie Anne’s Pretzels. For some more great outlet shopping, check out the Tanger Outlet Center’s July 4th Sidewalk Sale. Stores like Banana Republic, Gap, Gymboree, and Polo Ralph Lauren will be participating, and many stores already have big sales in progress. The sidewalk sale will be going on the whole weekend, giving you plenty of time to benefit from the great sales.
The options for a great weekend are unlimited! Whether spending just a day or the whole weekend in Branson, you will be sure to have a great time.
Fourth of July in Washington, DC: Fireworks, Monuments, and Mount Vernon
Independence Day is almost upon us! What better location to celebrate America than in its beautiful capitol city? Washington, DC is the perfect place to make your July 4th celebration special. With a variety of celebrations taking place throughout the area, you have plenty of options for your holiday.
George Washington’s manor, Mount Vernon, is an ideal location at which to celebrate America’s independence, and the Red, White, and Blue Celebration is the perfect party to allow you to do so! This event celebrates the birth of America, complete with a birthday cake and party festivities. Other features of this day-long event include a reading of the Declaration of Independence by a George Washington impersonator and a concert featuring 18th century patriotic tunes performed by the National Concert Band of America. Other fun activities and games will also be going on throughout the day. While at Mount Vernon, you will have the chance to explore the estate and the famed gardens and see many artifacts from Washington’s life.
If you want to stay in the capitol and celebrate with thousands of visitors and locals, make plans to join the Fourth of July Independence Day Celebration at the Capitol. This event has everything you need for a spectacular Fourth: a parade, fireworks show, and music! The parade starts in the early afternoon and features over 100 units and organizations marching to the Capitol building. After the parade, you can enjoy the live music from a variety of performers and groups. The evening finishes with a dazzling display of fireworks over the Washington Monument. With everything you need for a great day of celebrating, this event will certainly make your holiday memorable.
While in the nation’s capital, you should take the time to explore the monuments honoring the founding fathers and important presidents. These men played vital roles in gaining and keeping America’s freedom, and you can learn more about them and honor their memory by visiting their monuments with the Monuments by Moonlight Trolley Tour. This tour features a knowledgeable guide that takes you to all of the major monuments in DC, including the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. These monuments are lit up beautifully at night, making this experience one you are sure to remember.
Hotels for the July 4th weekend are sure to be filling up fast, so make sure that you get your desired lodging by booking early! We offer hotels right in downtown and throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Fireworks and Food: July 4th Celebrations in Chicago
Get ready to spend an awesome July 4th weekend in Chicago! If you have not already made plans, it is not too late to get in on the action in America’s third largest city. With special July 4th celebrations, you will be sure to have a great time celebrating America in one of its greatest cities.
One July 4th option is spending the day at Navy Pier, one of Chicago’s most popular attractions. Year round the pier is a great destination with lots of restaurants, carnival-style games, an IMAX theater, and a Ferris Wheel, but July 4th turns this attraction into an exciting party. The July 4th Celebration at Navy Pier features a spectacular fireworks show and enough entertainment to keep you interested all night. Entertainment includes performances from a variety of local musicians. Located close to Michigan Avenue, you will be close to a variety of Chicago attractions as well.
The John Hancock Observatory offers the best views in the city, making it a perfect spot to watch the city’s fireworks displays on July 4th. The Observatory will be open on the 4th, and visitors will be able to watch the fireworks as well as see breathtaking views of Chicago. Located on Navy Pier, you will also be close to the action of the July 4th Celebration.
One of Chicago’s most popular events will also be occurring during July 4th weekend. The Taste of Chicago begins June 26 and lasts until July 5. Chicago is home to a lot of great food, from gourmet upscale establishments to authentic Chicago pizzerias, and you can sample the best of what the city has to offer at this great festival. Taking place in Grant Park, which is located in the heart of Chicago’s downtown, over 60 restaurants, cafes, and bars are participating in this event. Aside from the great food, the event includes a fireworks show on the evening of July 3rd, an appearance by renowned-chef Emeril Lagasse, book signings, and live musical performances. This event is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day, and food tickets can be purchased at the gate.
Because of the holiday weekend, hotels are sure to fill up fast! Act quickly to reserve your room downtown to be close to all of the action!
Light Up Your July 4th in Orlando
Light up your summer vacation in Orlando, Florida by celebrating July 4th at these Orlando area events. Whether planning an exciting Disney vacation or you just want to spend some time on the beach, these events are great additions to any vacation. Perfect for a family vacation or a romantic getaway, these events are sure to provide Independence Day celebrations to remember.
On the evening of July 4th, you can catch the free Fireworks at the Fountain at Lake Eola Park in Orlando, FL. This event features live musical entertainment, a variety of food vendors and options, and, of course, a spectacular fireworks show. Special guests at this event include the Orlando Concert Band and the mayor of Orlando, Florida. Lake Eola Park is a beautiful downtown Orlando destination that features fountains, playgrounds, and the Walt Disney Amphitheater. This event will be fun for the entire family, so add it to your vacation today!
The Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration in Kissimmee, Florida is the area’s largest event, with approximately 40,000 people attending each year. The celebration begins in the afternoon and lasts until the dazzling fireworks show that night. During the day, you can enjoy live musical entertainment from an array of bands and performers, Uncle Sam stilt walkers, street performers, games, activities, and arts and crafts. This event truly has something for everyone. A variety of food vendors will also be on hand. Admission to this great event is free, and it is taking place at Kissimmee’s Lakefront Park, which is fairly close to Disney and other Orlando attractions, making it a great addition to your vacation.
Another option for a July 4th celebration is the Fire Up Your 4th of July at Universal City Walk in Orlando. Located by Universal Studios, this event features live music and games. When you get hungry, you can find something to eat at the outdoor cookout area. The evening ends with a fireworks show. The Universal City Walk is an Orlando entertainment destination and features a variety of restaurants and nightclubs, including the Hard Rock Cafe, Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, and NBA City, making it a great destination for evening fun. This event combines a great location with a fantastic fireworks show that will not disappoint.
Whichever event you choose, you will be sure to have a fabulous evening celebrating America.
Independence Day in Myrtle Beach: Concerts, Fireworks, and More
It’s never too early to start planning your July Fourth vacation. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina combines all of the elements of a great vacation: a beach, fun activities, entertaining shows, and a Fourth of July fireworks show and concert. Don’t be left out of the fun! Check out the following ideas and start planning your vacation today!
The Myrtle Beach Fourth of July Concert is the biggest event in the city for Independence Day. The event starts off with several local bands entertaining the crowd with live music. The evening’s main event is a performance by the Long Bay Symphony, the Myrtle Beach area’s highly acclaimed professional orchestra. As the orchestra plays beautiful music, you will be dazzled by the breathtaking fireworks show. The event takes place at Shaw Memorial Stadium, which is located in the heart of the city. A perfect event for the whole family, this special concert is a special way to celebrate America.
Myrtle Beach has a variety of activity options to complete the July 4th weekend or a longer stay. With a range of family-friendly activities, you will have a family vacation to remember. One of Myrtle Beach’s most popular attractions is the Pavilion Nostalgia Park and Myrtle Waves Waterpark. With a range of rides suitable for a variety of ages from toddlers to adults, the Pavilion Nostalgia Park is a great destination for fun in the sun. Rides include the Herschell-Spillman Carousel, Dune Buggy Kiddie Ride, the Pirate Ship, and the Wave Swinger. The Myrtle Waves Waterpark is a great option for more fun. This waterpark includes 20 acres of exciting slides, pools, and more. Attractions include a wave pool, 10-story tall water slides Turbo Twister and Riptide Rockets, and a kiddie area. There is something for everyone to enjoy at these great parks.
A must-see show in Myrtle Beach is Le Grand Cirque. Perfect for a family outing or a romantic date night, this show is quickly becoming one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular shows. It combines a thrilling spectacle of acrobats, dancing, gymnastics, juggling, and theater for a unique show that will amaze you. Located at the Palace Theatre, this show will be an unforgettable addition to your visit to Myrtle Beach.
Plan a Patriotic Weekend in Mt. Rushmore
Mt. Rushmore pays tribute to some of the United States’ most important presidents, making it a tribute to the history of America. What better place to celebrate July 4th than at this beautiful monument? With a variety of July 4th weekend festivals and events, there is no better time to visit Mt. Rushmore and South Dakota.
The Black Hills Heritage Festival takes place July 1-4 in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota in Rapid City. With a variety of craft vendors, food vendors, musical features, and a spectacular fireworks show, this festival is sure to provide a memorable and fun way to spend July 4th weekend. You will be able to experience the local culture and native artisans as you celebrate America at this event.
While celebrating at the Black Hills Heritage Festival, you will also be close to the Annual Black Hills Roundup Rodeo in Belle Fourche, taking place July 2-4. Featuring real cowboys and cowgirls, this annual event features beauty pageants, a carnival, food, and fireworks as well as traditional rodeo events like bull riding and calf roping. Perfect for families, this rodeo will be an unforgettable and festive event.
For a July 4th event at Mt. Rushmore, the Mount Rushmore Independence Day Celebration is your best bet. Taking place on July 3rd, you will get a head start on your celebration. Featuring food vendors, family entertainment, and a dazzling fireworks display, this event is sure to be an unforgettable way to celebrate America as you enjoy the Mt. Rushmore Monument lit up by hundreds of fireworks.
With this variety of events in the Mt. Rushmore area, you are sure to have plenty to fill your vacation. You will be able to take in the culture of the area as well as celebrate America at one of America’s most well-known monuments.
