Category Archives: USA

New York is All Set for the Fourth of July Celebrations

new-yorkFourth of July, the Independence Day of the USA, is perhaps the best time to experience the lively culture of New York City. Fireworks are a big highlight of America’s Independence Day celebrations. Besides, the city hosts a variety of events and activities you can be a part of.

Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks

In 2015, the venue for the action is the Brooklyn Bridge. Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Brooklyn Bridge Park and the east side of Lower Manhattan are the spots to enjoy this jaw-dropping show. The show starts at 9pm but people are here as early as 5pm to grab the best spots for watching the show.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

This eating contest, at Coney Island, needs a special mention among all the events that New York City hosts on the Independence Day. Contestants have to eat as many hot dogs as possible in 10 minutes. There is no entry fee to watch contestants eating hot dogs and buns at an unbelievable speed. The record of eating 69 hot dogs and buns was set by Joey Chestnut in 2013.  Joey Chestnut is winning the contest since 2007.

Annual Fourth of July Beach Party

This beach party offers you another reason to visit Coney Island. Into its third year, this annual beach party offers loads of entertainment and engagement for everyone. Live music, delicious food, a variety of beers, and fireworks are a few of the highlights of this beach party.

Indie Fest

Also known as Indie-Pendence Day, this music festival is a marathon of concerts and comedy shows. Visit the Peoples Impov Theatre at 12 noon to catch up the first show of the day. Besides stage shows, the Indie Fest is popular for its annual Potluck BBQ and free jam session at midnight. One needs to buy tickets for the shows but the jam session is free.

Top June Events that Mark the Start of Festive Summers in Seattle

Seattle welcomes the summer season in June with a range of colourful events and festivals; in fact the city has an event for every taste and interest.  We have compiled a list of a few of the most popular events and festivals that Seattle is hosting in the month of June.

seattle

Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival

This annual festival commemorates the independence of the Philippines. Since 1987, Seattle Centre has been hosting this event in the first half of June. Also, this event has emerged as the biggest festival to admire the cultural and artistic richness of the Philippines throughout the Pacific Northwest. The two-day event is a part of a series of cultural programmes called Seattle Center Festál and is scheduled for 06th and 07th June, 2015.

Washington Brewers Festival

Spend Father’s Day weekend (19th-21st June) at King County’s Marymoor Park to enjoy the extravaganza of Washington Brewers Festival. Tickets are available online and the price includes a complimentary glass taster. Around 105 Washington breweries will brew 400 varieties of beer for the guests. Pick your drink and couple it with a scrummy dish from any of the food trucks or vendors for a memorable experience.

Midsomer Festival

On 27th and 28th June, visit Camlann Medieval Village to experience the charm of 14th century England at Midsomer Festival. Summer games, archery, puppetry, magic shows and several other fun-filled activities take you back in time. Music lovers get an opportunity to listen to songs from the middle ages.

Maple Valley Days

This more than 60 years old festival is one of the most prominent events in Maple Valley, a city located around 30 miles from Seattle. Family oriented entertainment that includes carnival rides, parades, a car show and interesting kid-centric activities are organised at the Lake Wilderness Park. In short, 12th to 14th June are the three days when Maple Valley will become a hot spot for tourists as well as locals.

Three of the Most Popular July Events and Festivals in New York, USA

You may look forward to lots of colourful celebrations in the New York City, USA during the month of July. Whether you are a music buff, foodie, art connoisseur, dance enthusiast or have a passion for cinema, there will be an event or two to cater to your interests and tastes. Here’s a list of a few popular festivals to be celebrated in New York in July 2015.

new-yorkk

Hip Hop Festival

Into its 10th year, this festival is the largest Hip Hop cultural event in New York City. While powerful musical performances are the major highlight of this event, there is a lot more on offer as well. Family-friendly block party, exhibitions and panel discussions are other aspects of the event. In the past, artists like Kanye West, Busta Rhymes and Kendrick Lamar have performed at Hip Hop Festival. The 2015 edition of the festival is scheduled from 08th to 11th July in the borough of Brooklyn.

Jazz in July Festival

This jazz festival adds a soothing tinge to New York’s effervescence. World renowned jazz artists will perform at this festival which is scheduled from 21st to 30th July at 92Y Cultural and Community Center. The festival boasts a long list of concerts and performances by notable pianists, drummers, bassists and vocalists. Swing a Song of Sinatra, the Piano Men: From Jelly Roll to Oscar, and Benny, Basie & Bucky! Are some of the events that are sure to impress jazz enthusiasts.

City of Water Day

If you want to spend a day like a local in New York, City of Water Day is the event you should add to your travel plan. On 18th July, Metropolitan Waterfront Alliance hosts a fun-filled day at Governors Island which is full of special activities for kids, music, delicious food, boat tours and more. Cardboard Kayak Race is one of the major attractions of this event. Participate in this team competition to make a kayak with a cardboard and cover a distance of around 50 yards in the least time to win. Besides Governors Island, similar neighbourhood events take place at around 30 other locations across New York.

Astoria Music Festival – A Premium Musical Event in Portland, Oregon

Portland plays host to numerous colourful events, where music buffs get the chance to enjoy a variety of musical performances. Astoria Music Festival is one such event. Into its 13th year, this

portland

festival is scheduled to be held from 13th to 28th June, 2015. This notable summer event is among the biggest music celebrations in Oregon and features numerous highlights and surprises for music aficionados. Let’s check out a few of them.

Gala Opening – All Beethoven

On 13th June, Liberty Theatre will host this gala event where the melodies of Beethoven, played by violinist and concert master of Los Angeles Philharmonic, Martin Chalifour, are sure to captivate your senses. This beguiling performance will be followed by a symphony.

Chamber Music Workshop

This 5-day workshop will begin on 24th June and allow you to participate in intensive coaching offered by the globally famous musicians, Cary Lewis and ENSO Quartet. The participants will also get to rehearse for ‘the Concert for Family and Friends’ as well as the Closing Ceremony. The tuition fee of the workshop includes admission to the festival events and entry to the chamber music concert where the workshop coaches perform.

Collaborative Keyboard Apprentice Program

This apprentice program is once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for keyboard players to assist the chamber music preparation and performances by notable artists. Besides, they will get to help the participants of the Vocal Apprentice Program in rehearsals. Musicians selected for this apprentice programme are entitled to full scholarship on tuition fee.

Grand Finale – Donizetti’s MARIA STUARDA (Mary, Queen of Scots)

Scheduled for 28th June at Liberty Theatre, this concert portrays a fascinating political story, which features famous characters such as Queen Elizabeth I, Duke of Leicester, Earl of Shrewsbury and Lord Cecil to name a few. The music is played by Astoria Festival Orchestra, Festival Chorus and Apprentice Vocal Artists.

Portland’s Top Three Annual Events in the Month of June

Despite being the largest city in the state of Oregon, Portland has that small-town feel to it, which appeals to a large number of tourists yearning to experience a rather laidback holiday. The events and festivals, hosted by the city, further enhance its charisma. If you are in Portland in June 2015, there are numerous events you can add to your travel plan. Whether you are travelling with friends or family, you will easily find a suitable event that can be enjoyed by all. Let’s check out a few of the most prominent ones.

Portland by Razvan Orendovici/ CC BY

Portland by Razvan Orendovici/ CC BY

Festival of Flowers

This two-week festival will commence on 29th May at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Visit the square in the heart of the downtown to admire the way colourful flowers are used to create impressive shapes and designs. This annual event is one of the major festivals in Portland and this year’s highlight is the design called Doughnut Trip.

Scandinavian Festival

Officially known as Portland Scandinavian Midsummer Festival, this annual festival celebrates the Summer Solstice in the traditional Scandinavian style.The 87th edition of this cultural extravaganza is scheduled to take place at Oaks Park on 13th June. Visit with your family and have a great time dancing to the tunes of traditional music, savouring delicious Scandinavian dishes and participating in a variety of games.

Astoria Music Festival

Music lovers visiting Portland in June must consider adding this festival to their schedule. From 13th to 28th June, you will get an opportunity to enjoy the 13th edition of this prominent summer event, to be held in Astoria. Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring, Verdi’s Otello, and Wagner’s Die Walküre are some of the popular acts that you can enjoy here. Besides, classical chamber music and orchestral works by Sibelius and Beethoven are sure to catch the attention of ardent fans.

The Highlights of Summerfest 2015 – World’s Largest Music Festival

Drawing thousands of fans from around the world each year, Summerfest is the record-holder of ‘The Largest Music Festival’ by Guinness World Records.Summerfest is known for its hot line-up of performers.  Read on to check out the highlights for 2015.

Dates

Summerfest 2015 is an 11-day event. The first part will kick off on 24th June and go on till 28th June. After a break of single day, the second part will start on 30th July and continue till 5th July.

Location

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Highlights of 2015

Live music. Cold beer. Great food. And intoxicating music all around. With an impressive line-up (as always), the Summerfest 2015 is all set to entertain its massive audience. Over 800 acts will be played out across 11 stages.

Summerfest by Robert Bejil/ CC BY

Summerfest by Robert Bejil/ CC BY

The performances are diverse and include everything from rock and country to R&B, pop, and reggae headliners. Music is best enjoyed with food here. At Summerfest 2015, more than 45 food and beverages vendors will ensure that fest-goers have a wide array choice. Miller Lite is the Official Beer of the Summerfest. If you are a beer drinker, you would love the cold beer served here.

The Incredible Marcus Amphitheatre

Marcus Amphitheatre is the hottest stage at the Summerfest. Some of the biggest names in the music world perform on this stage in front of a huge crowd. This 23,000-seat amphitheatre hosts grand performances and provides the best of sound, lighting, and overall ambience. Besides, Marcus Amphitheatre also features stunning views of Lake Michigan and Henry Maier Park.

Highlights of the Line-up

The 2015 line-up is huge and impressive and boasts big names. Some of the most popular performers, who will unleash their magic at the Marcus Amphitheatre, are Linkin Park, Kendrick Lamar with Schoolboy Q, Zack Brown Band, and Kings of Leon. At the Ground Stage of Summerfest 2015, the prominent performers include Jane’s Addiction, The Flaming Lips, Public Enemy, “Weird Al” Yankovic, and Nas.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival – A Must-Visit Event in Washington D.C. for Culture Vultures

washington-DCThe cultural heritage of the USA is among the major draws of the capital city, Washington D.C. If you are planning a trip to the US capital around the Fourth of July, the Independence Day, consider being a part of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival which is often billed as an international exhibition of living cultural heritage. Washington D.C. is hosting this free to public festival since 1967. In 2015, the festival will be celebrated in two parts: 24th to 28th June and 01st to 05th July. Smithsonian Folklife Festival hosts a variety of cultural exchange programmes. Check out some of the most prominent ones.

Divas Night: Homage to Kenyan Women in Music

Be a part of this evening musical event to know about the contribution of Kenyan women to the musical culture of the African nation. The spectacular performances of talented artists such as Doris Chepchumba, Suzanna Owiyo, and Iddi Achieng’ will take place at Ngoma Stage on 26th June.

Expressions of China: A Musical Revenue

On 28th June, grab your spot at Moonrise Pavilion to enjoy the captivating performances of popular groups and artists like Quanzhou Puppet Troupe, the Bimen Brothers and Family, and singers of hua’er folk songs. Zhu Zhizhong, a music expert from China Arts and Entertainment Group, is arranging this event.

Nomadic Soul: Qiang and Mongolian Music

This event is your chance to explore the Mongolian legacy right in Washington D.C’s National Mall on 02nd July. This group comprises Qiang Polyphonic Singers. The blend of contemporary tunes and khoomei throat-singing is sure to capture your senses and souls.

Chinese Theatre Traditions: Puppetry and Opera

Puppetry and opera are two of the most popular aspects of Chinese culture. The Zhejiang Wu Opera Troupe and Quanzhou Puppet Troupe will showcase the colourful Chinese culture on 03rd July at Moonrise Pavilion. Be ready to get amazed by the synchronized movements of dazzling stringed marionettes and Wu Opera’s combination of music, dance, and acrobatics.

Festivals and Events to Enjoy Your May Holidays in Boston

bostonNo matter what time of the year you choose to visit Boston, you can easily find an event or two to celebrate the historical legacy of Boston, one of the oldest cities in the USA. In the month of May, Boston hosts several events and festivals where everyone gets an opportunity to explore the vibrant persona of the capital city of Massachusetts. In 2015, this metropolis is again going to amaze its guests in the month of May. Here are the top events that you may add to you itineraries to understand Boston in a better way.

Bluegrass On The Bogs (BOTB)

Listen to soothing acoustic ballads, stay in camps or recreational vehicles, attend a variety of workshops and savour delicious food; these are just a few highlights of this three-day annual festival which will start on 08th May. Bring your kids along to watch them play music on stage. Young musicians can participate in three workshops, but their names must be registered with the Kids Academy beforehand. Moreover, unlike other events, your pets can accompany you at BOTB. Remember, your pet must be on leash throughout the event.

Watch City Steampunk Festival

Be a part of this outdoor festival on 09th May at Common, Waltham, Massachusetts to explore a genre of science fiction where steam-powered machinery plays the protagonist. Besides hosting intriguing events such as Steamboy (film series), Steampunk & Doctor Who and Cur.io Vintage, this festival also features various programmes for kids; A Steampunk Scavenger Hunt is the most prominent one.

American Craft Beer Fest

This is the largest craft beer festival on the East Coast where around 140 brewers showcase more than 640 craft beers. Seaport World Trade Center is hosting the eighth edition of this annual event on 29th and 30th May. First session is scheduled from 6 pm to 9:30 pm on 29th May. There are two sessions on the second day but the first session has already been sold out. But you can still try your luck for the final session.

Holidays in New York: Three Interesting Events in May 2015

new-yorkWhenever you visit the New York City, it is highly likely that you would find some event or festival going on here. The month of May is no exception. Check out these popular events lined up for May 2015.

Columbia University Film Festival

This popular annual film festival is scheduled from 01st to 07th May at Columbia University School of Arts and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Into its 28th year now, the Columbia University Film Festival will premiere several short films and also host teleplays and screenplays. On the final night i.e., 07th of May, the jury will announce the names of winners.

Queens New Music Festival

The borough of Queens is ready to rock New York from 13th to 17th May with its gala annual event, Queens New Music Festival (QNMF). The first gig will be held at Church-in-the-Gardens, whereas the Secret Theatre will host the rest of the performances. QNMF aims to promote the local talent of Queens. Musicians and composers from this borough and other parts of New York get an opportunity to establish a fan base. On the other hand, tourists get a chance to appreciate the talent of budding artists. This year, do consider catching up on the performances of Ensemble 365, Iktus Percussion and Eco-Music Big Band.

NYC Craft Beer Festival

Beer lovers planning a visit to New York during May ought to add this festival to their itineraries. The Hand Crafted Tasting Company is hosting this three day festival (28th to 30th May) at Pier 15. During these three days, you will get the chance to taste a variety of craft beers, while admiring the scintillating views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The festival will kick-off with the Brewmaster’s Connoisseur Experience at 7 pm. On the following day, 29th May, you can participate in two sessions, whereas the third and final day has as many as three sessions.

Top 5 Beaches of San Francisco that Best Reflect the City’s Refreshing Splendour

san-franciscoBeaches of San Francisco are among the best places to enjoy the summer time in the Bay City. Often covered by fog, the beaches offer a cool retreat away from the chaotic metropolitan ambience of the city. Spending a day at these beaches ensures a memorable experience of one’s trip to San Francisco. Check out five must-visit beaches in this endearing Californian city.

Ocean Beach

This is perhaps the most popular beach in San Francisco. During summers, Ocean Beach becomes a hot spot among locals and tourists alike. Visit in the morning for a jog here and to watch anglers fish in the Pacific waters.  Generally, the water here is quite cold and not apt for swimming, but the occasional sunny day promises a great sunbathing experience.

Stinson Beach

If you are looking for recreational opportunities by a beach, Stinson should be on your list. You can visit this beach anytime of the year but when it comes to swimming, hit the waters between May and September. During these months lifeguards are present at the beach.

China Beach

China-BeachChina Beach is a small cove but quite popular for providing staggering views of the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most iconic attractions in San Francisco. It is among the quietest beaches in the city and has emerged as a prime choice amongst honeymooners. Swimming is not too safe due to currents and rip tides.

Muir Beach

Its pristine surrounds and spellbinding scenery make for a relaxed paradise in San Francisco.  Besides beachcombers, a large number of hikers also visit Muir Beach to enjoy a hike to Tennessee Cove via Coyote Ridge Trail or Coastal Trail.  After your hiking session, find a spot on the beach to admire spectacular sunsets while sipping your drink.

Rodeo Beach

For nature lovers, a trip to San Francisco is incomplete without visiting Rodeo Beach. Besides boasting azure waters, powdery sands, and soothing ambience, the beach is also a home to a range of birds; pelicans, gulls and cormorants are a few species you can find here. Surfing and hiking are also quite popular. On weekends, it becomes a popular place for family picnics.