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By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez
There’s no better way to usher in the holiday season than by attending a performance of “The Nutcracker.”
And The Joffrey Ballet’s rendition of the popular seasonal theatrical production is one of the best around. “The Nutcracker,” performed by the acclaimed Joffrey Ballet, continues to Dec. 28 at The Lyric Opera House in Chicago.
The stellar production, now celebrating its 10th anniversary, was choreographed by noted choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, and debuted in 2016. In his version, Wheeldon offers a creative spin on the classic ballet as he changed the setting of the story to Chicago at the time of The Colombian Exposition.
The story revolves around Marie, a young girl from a hard-working but poor immigrant family. While in a dream, Marie is taken on a whimsical journey with The Great Impresario of the fair as well as a Nutcracker who has come to life. On the journey, they travel to The World’s Fair where their adventures take them to the ethnic pavilions at the fair and all the exciting happenings there.
This production of “The Nutcracker” has always excelled and it continues to enchant audiences with strong dancing, colorful costumes, stunning sets and, of course, Tchaikovsky’s beautiful score.
The Joffrey dancers are always a joy to watch. Among dancers offering dynamic performances in the show were Amanda Assucena as Marie; Gayeon Jung as the mother as well as The Sugar Plum Fairy; Stefan Goncalvez as The Great Impresario; and Valentino Moneglia as Buffalo Bill.
Secure a ticket for this great Chicago holiday tradition. You won’t be disappointed.
FYI: “The Nutcracker,” performed by The Joffrey Ballet, continues to Dec. 28 at The Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. Visit joffrey.org for more information.
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
Top photo courtesy of the Joffrey Ballet.
The TASTE AWARDS, the premier global celebration of excellence in food, fashion, lifestyle, health, travel, and cultural media, is proud to honor Emmy‑award‑winning actor, author, and culinary entrepreneur Sean Kanan with “The Bold Flavor Award.”
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1562123038248070
This honorary award recognizes Sean’s fearless creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and passion for culinary arts — qualities that embody the adventurous and innovative ethos of The TASTE AWARDS. The 17th Annual Awards Ceremony will take place Saturday March 7, 2026, bringing together the world’s leading creators, innovators, and lifestyle influencers. (thetasteawards.com)
Sean Kanan has built a remarkable, multifaceted career — from his breakout role as “Mike Barnes” in The Karate Kid Part III and his reprisal in the hit series Cobra Kai, to his longtime role as Deacon Sharpe on the daytime drama The Bold and the Beautiful. Beyond the screen, Sean channels his bold creativity into the culinary world — authoring The Modern Gentleman: Cooking and Entertaining with Sean Kanan and launching his artisan condiment line, Bad Boy Hot Sauce, featuring bold flavors like “Cobra Venom,” “Mango Madness,” and “Red Pepper Punch.” For Sean, cooking is not only a passion but a way to connect people, celebrate culture, and inspire creativity in every kitchen.
“We are thrilled to present Sean Kanan with The Bold Flavor Award,” said A.K. Crump, Chair of the TASTE AWARDS. “Sean embodies the fearless creativity and love of flavor that our Awards celebrate. From Hollywood to the kitchen, he demonstrates how passion, authenticity, and boldness can inspire communities and elevate culture.”
The Bold Flavor Award joins The TASTE AWARDS’ honorary distinctions across Food & Drink, Fashion & Design, Travel, Health & Fitness, and Lifestyle categories, recognizing individuals shaping the future of taste, style, and creative influence.
Like a Michelin Star for storytelling. Like an Oscar for originality. Like an Emmy for influence. These are the ranks of celebrated creators who define what taste looks like around the world. Seen, remembered, and celebrated.
Record-setting participation in Chicago’s most anticipated annual dining out experience
Choose Chicago, the city’s official destination marketing organization, announces the return of Chicago Restaurant Week (CRW), with a record-setting number of participating restaurants. Produced annually by Choose Chicago, the beloved event celebrates its 19th year Friday, January 23 through Sunday, February 8, 2026. Food lovers can reserve tables and view menus online beginning today for multi-course meals at more than 500 Chicagoland eateries at chicagorestaurantweek.com.
Chicago Restaurant Week offers visitors and local foodies an exciting opportunity to experience some of the area’s most sought-after restaurants. For 17 consecutive, dining-packed days, participating restaurants will showcase specially curated prix fixe menus with prices set at $30 for brunch or lunch, and $45 and/or $60 for dinner (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity). Lending an ideal reason to explore Chicago’s nationally lauded culinary scene, diners can experience new, show-stopping restaurants and familiar favorites alike daily.
“Choose Chicago’s Chicago Restaurant Week is one of the most anticipated events of the year for our restaurant community, our visitors and our residents,” said Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. “It’s more than a week of fantastic discounts at top culinary establishments; it’s our moment to celebrate the restaurants and chefs who power this industry every day. From beloved neighborhood spots to world-renowned dining destinations, this event offers exciting, accessible ways for everyone to experience the flavors that make Chicago the place to be this winter — and one of the great food cities of the world. Bon appétit!”
An all-time record, more than 500 participating restaurants represent 33 distinct Chicago neighborhoods and 61 suburban eateries. Of the participants, 160 are women and/or minority owned enterprises, and 76 restaurants make their Restaurant Week debut.
Participants include a range of new and established locales such as Lula Cafe (Logan Square), Il Carciofo (West Loop), Café Yaya (Lincoln Park), Topolobampo (River North), Señoritas Cantina on Dearborn (The Loop), Truth Be Told (Hyde Park) and Lior’s Café (Washington Heights). They join a list of repeat loyalists such as Gene & Georgetti (River North), Geja’s Café (Lincoln Park), Frontier (West Town), Big Jones (Andersonville), Dove’s Luncheonette (Bucktown/Wicker Park) and more. A complete list of participating restaurants and their curated menu offerings can be found here.
Reservations are nowopen at chicagorestaurantweek.com.
“Chicago Restaurant Week champions the passion and vitality of our neighborhood restaurants,” said Sam Toia, President and CEO, Illinois Restaurant Association. “Celebrations like this provide diners with the perfect opportunity to explore every corner of our city. This initiative also helps restaurants to grow their business during the first quarter of the year when they need it the most.”
Chicago Restaurant Week kicks off in grand style on Thursday, January 22 at First Bites Bash. The event, which sold out within 24 hours of the ticket launch, will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. at Chicago’s Field Museum. Award winning Chicago chef Jonathon Sawyer of Kindling serves as the Host Chef for the star-studded party, where guests will experience exclusive tasting portions from more than 70 restaurants, as well as enjoy wine, beer, spirits, entertainment and more. Choose Chicago will make a financial contribution to its event beneficiaries, the James Beard Foundation and No Kid Hungry.
This year, Chicago Restaurant Week enjoys overlap with the equally popular Chicago Theatre Week, taking place February 5-15, 2026. As these two iconic cultural celebrations coincide, there is no better opportunity to experience Chicago like a local this winter. Through the exploration of food and theatre in every pocket of the city, locals and visitors have even more reason to book that hotel stay or staycation – while adding shopping, sporting events and sightseeing.
Chicago Restaurant Week is generously sponsored by Today’s Variety, 101.9 THE MIX, 97.1 The Drive – Chicago’s Classic Rock, Throwback 100.3 – All The Hits Of The 90s & 2000s, the James Beard Foundation, OpenTable and Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits.
For reservations, visit chicagorestaurantweek.com.
Foodies are encouraged to follow @ChooseChicago on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Get social using #FirstBitesBash and #ChicagoRestaurantWeek.
About Choose Chicago
Choose Chicago is the official sales and marketing organization responsible for promoting Chicago as a global visitor and meetings destination, leveraging the city’s unmatched assets to ensure the economic vitality of the city, its residents and our partner business community. Follow @choosechicago on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and X/Twitter and tag #FirstBitesBash and #ChicagoRestaurantWeek. For more information, visit choosechicago.com.
Photos courtesy of Choose Chicago.
By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez
Fans of holiday films won’t want to miss the stage version of a comical seasonal favorite.
“Elf The Musical” is currently spreading the holiday spirit on stage at The Auditorium in Chicago. The production continues to Dec. 14.
Based on the 2003 movie “Elf,” this musical version tells the tale of Buddy the Elf, who is really human, as he ventures to New York City from his home at the North Pole to meet his real dad. Comic scenes are aplenty in this show as Buddy’s interactions with family and others often cause mayhem, confusion and all sorts of zaniness.
“Elf The Musical” is filled with energetic dance numbers, catchy songs and fine acting by the ensemble cast.
Starring as Buddy is Jack Ducat, who offers a perfect performance as the naive, loveable elf. Also giving enjoyable performances are Felicia Martis as Jovie, Jeff Brooks as Walter Hobbs, Yara Martin as Emily Hobbs and Camden Kwok as spunky Michael Hobbs.
Among standout musical numbers in the show are “World’s Greatest Dad,” “I’ll Believe in You,” “A Christmas Song,” “The Story of Buddy the Elf” and “Nobody Cares About Santa.”
Catch this stage version of “Elf The Musical.” You’ll be glad you did.
FYI: “Elf The Musical” continues to Dec. 14 at The Auditorium, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Dr., Chicago. Tickets range from $40 to $110. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com.
About Eloise Marie Valadez
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
Fresh air mixed with the aroma of mulled wine, roasted almonds and warm chestnuts are part of the appeal of Southwest Germany’s many Christmas Markets whether they’re big or small. Each has a special ambience and distinction, designed to capture your imagination. Medieval or modern, baroque or family fun? Southwest Germany’s Christmas markets cater to all.
Consider the following:
The Christmas markets around Lake Constance present a variety of traditions and delicacies. The short distances between towns make it possible to visit many different Christmas markets, each memorable and eminently Instagrammable. The plethora of market offerings are varied. In the Black Forest there are 180 Christmas markets with each town’s market having its own personality, events and handicrafts. Castles and their surroundings offer yet another type of experience, such as in Stuttgart, the state capital, with its beautiful and enormous Christmas market located on a castle square–it’s a magical time featuring choirs, a children’s Christmas fair, and elaborate, beautifully decorated stalls ablaze in lights and ornaments.
So whether you visit the markets on historic squares and in monasteries, or in castles and nestled in the woods, you will enjoy sipping mulled wine, nibbling tasty treats, and buying one-of-a-kind crafts perfect for gifts. For special tips and ideas, please visit our website and enjoy the Christmas markets in Southwest Germany.
During Advent, the towns and villages of the Black Forest transform into a sparkling winter wonderland. Over 180 Christmas markets offer unique settings, handcrafted goods, and culinary delights. The Christmas market in Freudenstadt (December 4–14, 2025), home to Germany’s largest market square, is particularly atmospheric, featuring handcrafted products and a curling rink. In the historic half-timbered town of Haslach, the new “Culinary Winter Market” (December 19, 2025 – January 6, 2026) invites visitors daily to enjoy regional specialties and music, accompanied by a nativity scene exhibition.
Art lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Karlsruhe: At the “Christmas Fair for Applied Arts and Crafts” (December 11–14, 2025), 40 exhibitors present high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces from across Europe. In Rottweil, the oldest city in Baden-Württemberg, the Christmas market (December 4–14, 2025) enchants visitors with its medieval setting, children’s workshop, and choral singing.
Against impressive architecture, the Christmas market takes place on Cathedral Square in St. Blasien (on three weekends in December 2025) – framed by the largest dome north of the Alps. Lörrach invites visitors to its Old Market Square from December 4–14, 2025, with arts and crafts, music, and delicious aromas. In Bad Säckingen, the market on Münsterplatz (December 4–7, 2025) offers regional products and a musical program amidst a historic backdrop.
A truly special experience awaits at the “Christmas Triad” in Pforzheim (November 21, 2025 – January 6, 2026): Christmas market, winter wonderland, and medieval market merge into a dazzling, glittering experience complete with an ice rink, Ferris wheel, and street performers.
Christmas Markets in the Black Forest
The Staatliche Schlösser und Gärten Baden-Württemberg (SSG), or State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-Württemberg, sets the stage for a truly magical winter and Christmas season across its many historic sites. As the gardens and grounds enter their quieter phase, the frost-kissed landscapes, bare trees and soft winter light lend the sites a serene, festive ambience.
For example, Schloss Solitude in Stuttgart welcomes visitors for winter tours on weekends and holidays, offering both the architecture and surrounding views in a calm winter splendour. In the run-up to Christmas, many of the monuments managed by the SSG host atmospheric markets and seasonal events. The historic courtyards, cloisters and castle grounds are transformed into illuminated, festive spaces offering artisanal crafts, music and traditional treats. One highlight is the festive “Winterzauber” (winter magic) program at Residenzschloss Mergentheim, where from early November an open-air rink and themed events enliven the Schloss hof.
The Kurfürstlicher Christmas Market at Schloss Schwetzingen about 20 minutes from Heidelberg runs from November 27 to December 21, 2025, offering a festive atmosphere with handcrafted goods, delicious treats, and family-friendly activities.
Visitors can explore beautifully illuminated tents, enjoy mulled wine, and discover unique gifts. Highlights include a nostalgic carousel, a Christmas market featuring local and international specialties, and cultural events such as Advent concerts and theater performances. The historic castle and gardens also offer special tours and winter experiences. The combination of seasonal architecture, historic gardens and festive programming makes the SSG-managed sites wonderful destinations for winter visits — whether for a quiet stroll, family outing or evening market experience.
State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-Württemberg
During Advent, Lake Constance (Bodensee) transforms into one of Europe’s most enchanting winter destinations, where Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein share their traditions along one shimmering lake. This cross-border charm makes the region unique: visitors can experience four different cultures of festive joy within just a few days. In Konstanz, the largest town on the lake, the Christmas Market stretches from the medieval old town all the way to the harbour.
A true highlight is the “Weihnachtsschiff” (Christmas Ship), anchored by the waterfront and glittering with thousands of lights. Nearby, Überlingen enchants visitors with its atmospheric Christmas market, set among historic squares and festively decorated lanes. The lakeside promenade glows with lights, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for a winter stroll. Meersburg, with its half-timbered houses and medieval castle, offers a truly magical Advent market on the castle square.
Between Christmas and New Year, the town also hosts special seasonal events and concerts, keeping the festive mood alive right into the New Year. Another highlight is the Christmas Garden on Mainau Island, where dazzling light installations transform the famous flower island into a sparkling winter wonderland for the whole family. Across the region, guests can enjoy unique Christmas markets, festive cruises on the lake, and culinary treats – from German Lebkuchen and Austrian pastries to Swiss chocolate specialities. Families, couples, and Christmas enthusiasts alike will discover the joy of exploring diverse traditions so close together. Lake Constance is more than a holiday – it is a magical journey across four countries united by one festive lake.
For more information, contact
The 2026 travel landscape demonstrates a fundamental shift in how luxury travelers approach international exploration. No longer content with the obvious choice, today’s sophisticated travelers diversify their destinations, seek authentic experiences beyond traditional tourism centers, and optimize their itineraries for meaningful engagement rather than simple duration.
At Zicasso, travel experts have analyzed data from over 100,000 trip requests for 2026 departures to identify trends across global regions. From observing how travelers are moving beyond South Africa to discover Zimbabwe’s wildlife corridors, to seeing them bypass popular Greek islands for Ireland’s cultural heritage, we have identified how discerning travelers are reshaping the international travel landscape.
The following results of Zicasso’s 2026 Travel Trends Report show what we expect luxury travel to look like in the coming year.
Safari travelers are exploring beyond South Africa’s well-trodden game reserves to discover the wildlife-rich landscapes of neighboring countries. Island seekers are trading Greece’s popular summer corners for Ireland’s coastal drama and Celtic heritage. Across every major travel region, our data reveals a sophisticated shift: travelers now research multiple destinations within a region, choosing based on their specific interests rather than simply booking the most famous name.
The result benefits both travelers and destinations: visitors enjoy more authentic experiences while the positive impact of tourism spreads across multiple countries, supporting broader conservation efforts.
Regional Redistribution Highlights:
This pattern appears across Asia, where Thailand declined 6.7 percentage points while Japan expanded its dominance, and in the South Pacific, where New Zealand and Australia demonstrate a pendulum pattern as travelers alternate between the two countries in consecutive years.
The common thread: travelers make intentional choices based on what each destination uniquely offers.
Beyond the established favorites of Italy, France, and Spain, European travel is expanding north and east. Travelers seek the same elements that make Western Europe appealing, such as rich history, distinctive architecture, and culinary traditions, but with a better value in mind, and the excitement of destinations still in their discovery phase.
Poland’s historic cities, like Krakow, offer an authentic and accessible European atmosphere. Wales delivers dramatic coastlines and medieval castles at a density unmatched anywhere else. Sweden attracts those drawn to Scandinavian design, sustainable travel practices, and Nordic natural beauty. These destinations now provide the infrastructure and luxury hospitality that once distinguished only Western European classics, while maintaining an authenticity that comes before tourism saturation.
Fastest-Growing European Destinations:
The appeal extends beyond individual countries to how they connect. Scenic trains between Prague and Krakow, short flights linking Scandinavian capitals, and scenic drives through Alpine passes allow travelers to experience multiple cultures within a single trip. This compact geography aligns perfectly with the trend toward multi-destination efficiency, letting you explore three distinct European countries in the time traditional itineraries devoted to one.
Japan demonstrates how the right combination of factors can drive sustained growth rather than the typical boom-and-plateau pattern. The country rose from rank 9 globally to rank 6, capturing more than one-third of all Asian luxury travel. Rather than showing signs of saturation, Japan’s appeal continues to expand as more travelers discover its depth.
Japan’s cultural richness and natural beauty within a compact, highly efficient geography drive the interest. Bullet trains connect Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in under three hours. You can experience imperial palaces, mountain hot springs, and coastal villages without the extended ground transportation that complicates other Asia itineraries.
Japan’s Growth Trajectory:
Japan also rewards repeat visits. First-time travelers explore iconic sites like Kyoto’s temples and Tokyo’s neighborhoods. Return visitors discover regional experiences: Hokkaido’s winter landscapes, Okinawa’s subtropical islands, rural onsen towns, and regional culinary specialties from kaiseki cuisine to local sake breweries.
Accommodations jumped into the top 10 travel priorities for the first time, rising from rank 13 to rank 8. This shift appeared simultaneously across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the South Pacific signaling that travelers everywhere now view where they stay as integral to their destination experience rather than simply a place to sleep.
When trips become shorter and more intentional, every element gains importance. Morning rituals in a Japanese ryokan, evenings on the terrace of a Tuscan villa, nights under canvas in the African bush: these are essential components of cultural immersion.
Accommodation Priority Shift:
This elevation of accommodations complements other 2026 trends. As travelers combine multiple destinations into efficient itineraries, the quality of each element matters more. Where you rest and recharge becomes as thoughtfully curated as the experiences filling your days.
Luxury travel in 2026 rewards those who approach planning with intention and insight. Whether you’re drawn to Eastern Europe’s emerging destinations, seeking regional alternatives to traditional favorites, or looking for efficient multi-country itineraries that maximize your time, understanding these trends helps you craft journeys that reflect an evolved approach to travel.
A full version of the report can be found in their comprehensive PDF document.
If you’re ready to explore how these trends might shape your travel plans, or looking for inspiration for your next adventure, our travel specialists can help create a custom experience tailored to your interests, needs, and travel goals. Contact Zicasso to begin planning your next extraordinary journey.
Inside Chicago’s Essential Dive Bars: Photos From 12 Iconic Watering Holes https://flip.it/x-TmfA
By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez
There’s a dynamic theatrical work lighting up the stage of The Goodman Theatre.
“Revolution(s),” the brand new musical by Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine/Audioslave and Zayd Ayers Dohm, is a world premiere production directed by Steve H. Broadnax III. The production continues to Nov. 22.
Fans of metal/hip-hop and punk will easily be engrossed in this show. “Revolution(s)”revolves around Hampton Falk-Weems, a soldier and musician, who returns to his South Side Chicago home from Afghanistan and finds a number of problems and strife in the neighborhood which he must navigate around. There’s also strained relationships he must deal with. There’s definitely a war of a different kind going on back home.
The energetic music by Morello and various other artists help move this powerful musical along. The talented cast stars Aaron James McKenzie, Billy Rude, Alysia Velez, Jackie Burns, Jakeim Hart, Michael Ervin Martin and Al’ Jaleel McGhee.
Highlighted musical numbers include “Fight! Smash! Win,” “Keep Going,” “Rise to Power,” “Whatever It Takes,” “The Oath” and “The War Inside.”
FYI: “Revolution(s) continues to Nov. 22 at The Goodman’s Owen Theatre in Chicago. Visit goodmantheatre.org.
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
For more on what to do in Chicago, visit Choose Chicago.
By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez
A stellar production is making itself at home on the Chicago stage for the next two weeks.
“Hell’s Kitchen,” on its North American Tour, continues to Nov. 30 at The James M. Nederlander Theatre in Chicago. The production soars on every level, from the exceptional music by Alicia Keys to standout choreography by Camille A. Brown.
The storyline of “Hell’s Kitchen” revolves around the lives of teen Ali and her mother Jersey who live in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. Their relationship has its ups and downs as Ali experiences the strains and problems of growing up and coming of age while her mother tries to shield her from the heartaches and evils of the outside world. Once Ali finds the world of music and the joy of playing the piano, life becomes different.
“Hell’s Kitchen,” which is loosely based on musician Keys’ life, is directed by Michael Greif, and has a book by Kristoffer Diaz. The musical moves along swiftly and definitely keeps the audience’s attention.The Grammy-winning Keys’ music is woven perfectly throughout the production.
Starring as Ali is Maya Drake, whose vocals feature a dynamic mix of strong and sweet tones. Playing the role of Jersey is Kennedy Caughell, whose voice remains outstanding throughout the production. In the role of piano teacher Miss Liza Jane is Roz White, who also captures the audience’s attention with her beautiful vocals.
Among other strong performers in the show are Desmond Sean Ellington as Davis and JonAvery Worrell as Knuck.
Fans of Keys’ music will enjoy hearing theatrical performances of her hits. Highlighted tunes include “Teenage Love Affair,” “Girl on Fire,” “Fallin,”‘ “If I Ain’t Got You” and “Empire State of Mind.”
Don ‘t hesitate to get a ticket for this show and spend some time in “Hell’s Kitchen.”
FYI: “Hell’s Kitchen” runs to Nov. 30 at The James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Tickets range from $40 to $149. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com.
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
