2 Parades and One Chicago, IL for an Action Packed St. Patrick’s Day
If you’re looking for excitement and true Irish celebration this St. Patrick’s Day, look no farther than Chicago, Illinois. Chicago has not one, but two incredible St. Patrick’s Day parades. Complete with the traditional bagpipes, kilts, and drinks, both the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day parade and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade are noteworthy events in Chicago. The Chicago River is even turned green for the celebration. Take part in the party of the year with the Chicago Irish community and those who celebrate with them.
While you’re in Chicago taking in the Irish culture, don’t forget to visit some of the noteworthy museums and other attractions Chicago has to offer. Check out the CityPass for admission to three of the most remarkable museums in Chicago as well as the Shedd Aquarium and Alder Planetarium. The CityPass offers great value and even has VIP entry and fast pass privileges with two of the locations.
After a day full of learning and studying the exhibits, cut loose and see the nightlife of Chicago. Listen to the blues Chicago is so well-known for and see the clubs in the Chicago Club Crawl. With this pass there is no coverage charge, and you will be given a drink at each location. Transportation is also included so you can relax and not worry about driving afterwards. Also check out the Chicago Night Life Pass which gives you access to several clubs and allows you to skip the long waiting lines.
IMAX Film Festival Brings the Best Films in the Business to Branson, Missouri
February 8, 2010 by admin
Filed under Branson MO
The IMAX Film Festival is an event taking place from March 24th to April 20th in Branson, MO that focuses on showing films made exclusively for the IMAX theater experience. IMAX technology allows viewers to see movies on a larger-than-life scale that is several times bigger than the normal theater screen and delivers crystal-clear images that are far above the standard movie projector quality. Because this event is geared toward IMAX films exclusively, one can be certain that all the films at this festival will be of the highest quality possible.
The IMAX Theater is one Branson experience that everyone should be involved in. Some of the films are educational and all are entertaining. The Branson IMAX has reclining, high backed chairs and an extremely high-tech sound system. The Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex offers shopping and dinner options before the show for a complete experience.
Of course, for the ultimate Branson experience, one should also view a live show while in Branson. There are many wonderful shows to choose from such as Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show which offers a delicious Southern-style meal and an incredible horse show or the Shoji Tabuchi Show which offers the musical styling of the world-famous violinist Shoji Tabuchi and his family. For some morning entertainment try Red, Hot…& Blue which was awarded Best Vocal and Dance Group in Branson.
North America Country Music Association, International’s Country Music Week Begins in Pigeon Forge, TN
February 8, 2010 by admin
Filed under Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN
Country music fans everywhere anticipate the North America Annual Country Music Week in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This event, also known as the NACMAI, begins on March 8th and continues until March 14th. Bluegrass, gospel, and all other forms of country music will be at the event, so no country music fan will be left out. This also includes all fans interested in memorabilia showcases that will allow them to enjoy music from the past as well as current music.
All of this takes place at the Country Tonight Theater. For an entire week, this show is free to the public, but if you want to go any other time a fee is included. It’s an enjoyable event that is appropriate for all ages. Another event in the area going on at the same time is A Mountain Quiltfest, another annual event where over 20,000 quilters gather for workshops and classes at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center.
In addition to any events going on in the area, there are always many other things to do and see in a place like Pigeon Forge. Activities like the Smoky Mountain Picnic and Romantic Carriage Rides are available if one is interested in seeing the scenery the area offers with their family or significant other. For those interested in a bird’s eye view, there is breathtaking scenery from the view of a helicopter on the Helicopter Rides in the Smokies.
Musical Magic in Nashville, TN
February 4, 2010 by admin
Filed under Nashville TN
A brand new sensation has opened up at the Grand Ole Opry. Pickin’ and Grinnin’ featuring Mike Snider from the legendary HEE HAW is the comedic new show at the Opry. Snider will be performing his very own hilarous musical classics such as “The Fur Coat” and “Born to Shop.” In addition to the music and storytelling, there will also be magic. Magician Scott Cantrell goes on after Snider to amaze the audience with his performance. The show is sure to be an experience worth remembering.
In addition to Pickin’ and Grinnin,’ the Grand Ole Opry has Opry Country Classics. The history of country music is turned into a live performance where country music favorites will be performing time honored classics for the audience. New and old country stars will be bringing joy to everyone in the Opry with their beautiful performances.
The historic Ryman Auditorium where the Grand Ole Opry traditions began has the show Ryman Bluegrass Nights where bluegrass music is played and honored as we first got to know it in 1945. Current performers of bluegrass will be playing at Ryman Bluegrass Nights.
26th Annual International Blues Challenge Hits Memphis!
Known for blues and rock ‘n roll, Memphis hosts many music-themed festivals throughout the year. This year happens to be the 26th annual International Blues Challenge (IBC). If you’re thinking about visiting the Memphis area early in 2010, this would be the time. The IBC begins on January 20 and the finale will occur on the evening of January 23.
The International Blues Challenge is an event hosted by The Blues Foundation and has slowly grown to become the most respected showcase for blues musicians. This year’s entries represent 39 US states, the District of Columbia, and 13 foreign countries. Some of the countries represented include Australia, Denmark, India, and Italy.
It is a competition, mind you, and a winner is chosen for each of three categories. The ‘Blues Band’ category is the biggest, with 111 entries this year. The second competition category is ‘Solo/Duo Acts’ and boasts 83 competitors this year. The newest category is the ‘Youth Showcase’, which includes 32 entries all under the age of 21.
The festival kicks off with a Meet & Greet at the New Daisy Theater, followed by the international showcase. Days are filled with festival activities ranging from seminars and workshops to awards ceremonies. The competition semifinals take place at blues clubs along Beale Street with the final competition occurring at the famous Orpheum Theater.
To stay close to the action, we recommend hotels in the downtown area. There are several hotels within walking distance of Beale Street, which makes attending the competition events that much easier. The Marriott Downtown is just a short cab ride away from Beale Street and offers guests tons of amenities and a relaxing environment. The Holiday Inn Select Downtown is just a few blocks from Beale Street and definitely within walking distance. The Madison Hotel sits between the Marriott and the Holiday Inn Select, placing you just a few streets over from Beale Street. This hotel boasts first class amenities, on-site dining, and beautiful views.
One-Day Trips to Memphis Entertain the Whole Family
Whether you’re trying to fill a Saturday or trying to keep the kids busy on a break from school, Memphis has plenty of one-day activities for you to choose from. You can choose everything from city tours to museums. Your family is sure to love Memphis for a day.
Elvis Fans One-Day Get-Away
If you are a fan of The King, there are several things you can do to fill a day in Memphis. The first is the Graceland Platinum Experience. During this tour of Graceland, you will spend the first part of the tour guided through eight rooms of the main house. Following the guided tour you will be allowed to explore Elvis’ two custom airplanes, his collection of cars and motorcycles, and the Sincerely Elvis Memorabilia Museum. At the museum guests can see his personal wardrobe, Presley home movies, and family photos. Before leaving, be sure to stop in the Meditation Garden and leave flowers on his final resting place.
After visiting the home of The King, fans should definitely see where he worked. The Sun Studio Guided Tour leads you through the Memphis studio where Elvis recorded his early albums. You will see the microphone he used to record “That’s All Right” and other memorabilia. After the guided tour, be sure to stop at the Sun Studio Soda Shop and Record Store for a fountain soda and souvenirs.
If you are looking to entertain a younger crowd, the Children’s Museum of Memphis is the perfect place for a day-trip. This museum is filled with hands-on exhibits ranging from Growing Healthy, which teaches kids about anatomy, to Art Smart, where kids can paint, sculpt, or perform. There are hundreds of things for your little ones to do, and you’re more than likely to enjoy it, too. If you don’t want to go out to eat, bring a picnic lunch and let the kids play the day away. The Children’s Museum of Memphis is the perfect place for a family day of fun!
If you and the family simply want to explore Memphis and get a feel for this wonderful city, jump aboard the bus! The Memphis Mojo Tour is a guided bus tour of the city. You will visit Cotton Row, The Lorraine Motel, Sun Studio and Stax. Your “guides” will keep you laughing and singing, and the best part is guests are encouraged to help out with the music. Just grab one of the many shakers, bongos or tambourines on the bus and join in! Don’t miss this chance to soak up a little of American music history and have a little fun at the same time.
World War 2 Museum Expands to Include Entertainment and Dining
If you are a fan of history, then New Orleans has a museum that you just have to visit. The National World War II Museum in New Orleans is a celebrated look into a period of American history. If you’ve ever been there before, you should plan on going again. And if you’ve never been there, you should definitely plan on going for the first time. The Museum is unveiling two new additions in early November, and a third new addition has just open.
This new theater is unlike any you’ve ever been to! The 120-foot wide screen wraps around almost three walls, immersing the 250-seat theater in the film “Beyond All Boundries.” The 4-D experience is one that history buffs should not pass up. The film is narrated by Hollywood’s biggest stars, but the story is straight from the history books. The film includes several interviews with veterans. Viewers will not only see the the battles, beginning with Pearl Harbor and ending with the Allied victory, they will also feel it. The theater is open from 10 AM to 4 PM daily.
The American Sector, opening November 6, will be New Orleans’ newest hit restaurant. Serving up classic American food in a classic American setting, renowned chef John Besh is ready to get the doors open. The restaurant earned this name because the downtown area of New Orleans was traditionally known as the “American Sector.”
The American Sector will feature indoor and outdoor seating and is easily accessible from both the museum and Magazine Street. The restaurant will open at 11 AM seven days a week.
Also opening November 6 is the Stage Door Canteen. This new addition was taken straight out of the 1940′s! During the day, visitors to the Stage Door Canteen will watch the memorable stars and the unforgettable performances from World War II-era Hollywood. In the evening, this new addition will feature dining and live entertainment ranging from jazz and swing to signature productions specially crafted for the Stage Door Canteen.
If you are looking for a ideas for a November trip or vacation, the National World War II Museum in New Orleans is the perfect solution. It has something that everyone will enjoy, and with the new additions opening November 6 there is even more to do!
Deadwood Jam Offers Lively Reason for Visiting the Black Hills
This September 11 – 12, Deadwood will be hosting the annual Deadwood Jam on historic Main Street for a lively time of country, blues, bluegrass, general songwriters and more for a varied look into the sounds of the Black Hills. Just some of the names set to appear at this year’s festival include Mat Kearney, Rocco DeLuca and The Burden, Randy McAllister with the Brandon Sprague Blues Band, The Outlaws, Sarah Pierce, Savage Henry, and more.
Those interested in attending the Deadwood Jam can find a variety of lodging options throughout the Mount Rushmore area online.
Of course, you can’t stop by the Mount Rushmore area without visiting the monument itself, and along the Mount Rushmore Tour you will see the iconic landmark and more! The Mount Rushmore Tour begins with Mount Rushmore and its visitor’s center. From there, you will explore the area’s other famed sculpture-in-process, the Crazy Horse Memorial. You will then pass through Custer State Park on your way to the Big Thunder Gold Mine for an authentic gold panning experience from the 19th century.
Reserve your Mount Rushmore Tour online.
Aside from sightseeing, the entire family can delight in the down home sounds and tastes with the Chuckwagon Dinner and Western Music Show at Circle B Ranch. The night will feature a hearty meal consisting of tender roast beef, barbecue chicken, biscuits, and more. As for the entertainment, you will be treated to traditional country songs as the house band performs hits from Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Sons of the Pioneers, and more.
Book tickets to the Chuckwagon Dinner and Western Music Show at Circle B Ranch online.
Enjoy Music and More in Memphis During Labor Day
If you are looking for the perfect destination to spend a relaxing and fun Labor Day Weekend, check out what Memphis, Tennessee has to offer. From the excitement of Beale Street to taking in the beauty of the river on a riverboat cruise, your Labor Day weekend can be full of great activities.
One great reason to visit Memphis during the weekend is to enjoy the music and culture of the Memphis Music and Heritage Festival, which is an annual Labor Day event. This year’s event is taking place Sept. 5-6 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. each day. This event has drawn over 30,000 people to Memphis to enjoy the music. The festival takes place on Main Street near Peabody Place and Gayoso. Admission is free to the public.
The festival features five different stages, both inside and out. Different musical genres including blues, jazz, and gospel will be featured. Another special feature of the festival will be the regional cooking displays featuring regional and Southern favorites. In addition, storytelling and dancing exhibits will be going on. There will also be arts and crafts and songwriting workshops. The headline performers of this year’s event are Mike Darby and the House of Cards Band.
To round out the musical weekend, visit Sun Studio with the Sun Studio Guided Tour, which offers a guided tour of the Sun Studios. The studio opened in 1950 and became an important launching pad for blues and rock artists. Notable performers like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, B.B. King, and Jerry Lee Lewis got their start at Sun Studios. The guided tour takes you through the studio and allows you to see many artifacts and rock memorabilia. Items include one of Elvis’ microphones and historic records. Also available on site is a gift shop and old-fashioned soda shop to complete your experience.
Enjoy Nashville Culture and History at Upcoming Festivals
August 13, 2009 by admin
Filed under Nashville TN, VME
Nashville, TN has several upcoming festivals and events coming up that will provide visitors to the city a great time and a taste of the culture and history that has made Nashville the entertaining city it is today.
Music City Jazz, Blues, and Heritage Festival
This annual Labor Day festival will be taking place Sept. 5 and 6. The festival takes place in Nashville’s scenic Riverfront Park on the Cumberland River. The headline performers for this event are Boney James, who is set to appear on Sunday evening. Other performers include Phil Perry, Kevin Edmonds, Jackiem Joyner, ZAPP, Guitarzz, and Steve Roper. Tickets for this year’s event are $10 for one day or $15 for the weekend.
Feel like going Greek? This annual Nashville festival gives you the opportunity on Sept. 11-13. This festival is hosted by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. This is the 22nd year of this festival. The festival features authentic Greek food, dancing, and entertainment. Overall, it is just a fun celebration of the Greek culture and the Greek community in Nashville. The festival begins at 10 a.m. and goes until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Sunday’s hours are 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. A tour of the church is included in admission.
In addition to these great festivals, Nashville has entertaining attractions available year round. Whether enjoying an evening cruise on the General Jackson or interacting with wildlife at the Nashville Zoo, there is always something to see in Nashville!
