Rediscover your #LouisvilleLove with the return of the Hometown Tourist Celebration next month. The event invites residents to rediscover downtown Louisville by providing a discounted admission fee for well-loved or new-to-them attractions and venues.
The Downtown Hometown Tourist Celebration will take place February 1 – 10, 2025. During this time, individuals with a valid Kentucky or Indiana ID, local college ID, or military ID will receive half-off admission to participating Downtown venues.
21c Museum Hotel. Photo by Steve Grider.
“This event is for our entire state to enjoy Louisville’s attractions and venues, because our downtown is your downtown,” said Rebecca Fleischaker, executive director of LDP. “Normally a slow time of year for our attractions, this celebration gives locals an added benefit of saving money as well as supporting and promoting the incredible range of attractions, venues, and hotels that make our city unique.”
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.
Participating attractions and venues include:
Angel’s Envy Distillery
Angles Selfie Museum
Bardstown Bourbon Company
Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience
Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
Frazier History Museum
Good Bounce’s Downtown location
KMAC Contemporary Art Museum
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
Muhammad Ali Center
SAR Genealogical Library
Whiskey Row.
Downtown hotels are also participating with various discounts and package deals, offering a special rate for the duration of the celebration. Participating hotels include the 21c Hotel; Embassy Suites; the Galt House; Omni Louisville Hotel; Seelbach Hilton; and the Tempo by Hilton Louisville.
Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (Photo by Marty Pearl/Special to the LCVB)
“Hometown Tourist Week is a vital initiative that encourages our residents to explore and appreciate the incredible attractions and experiences right here in Louisville,” said Cleo Battle, Louisville Tourism President & CEO. “By being tourists in our own city, we not only support local businesses and attractions but also foster a deeper connection to our community. This celebration highlights the strength and diversity of our city’s offerings and reinforces the unique charm and hospitality that makes Louisville a top destination.”
Frazier History Museum.
Additional Downtown venues offering varying discounts during the celebration include the Belle of Louisville Riverboats; Corner Flavors of Kentucky; Derby City Gaming; Goodwood Brewing & Spirits; Porch Kitchen & Bar; and the Waterfront Botanical Gardens.
Tickets for admission can be purchased online by individual location or multiple days and locations together. Walk-ins are welcome, but reserving tickets in advance is recommended. Tickets and hotel bookings can be made in advance and can be viewed on LDP’s website.
Fairbanks, Alaska, is a land of captivating contrasts, offering truly unforgettable experiences. Chase the aurora borealis, celebrate the summer solstice under 24 hours of daylight, and explore the rugged beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Discover 25 compelling reasons to visit Fairbanks in 2025, from relaxing in a natural hot spring to embarking on epic dog mushing adventures and much more.
1. Mesmerizing Northern Lights Watch in awe as the northern lights dance across Fairbanks’ clear, dark skies. From August 21 to April 21, during Aurora Season, this natural phenomenon creates an unforgettable experience. Fairbanks’ location under the Auroral Oval offers prime viewing opportunities, making it a world-renowned destination for aurora seekers.
2. Amazing Alaska Native Events Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Alaska Native peoples. Participate in cultural events, witness traditional dances, and learn about the unique heritage of Interior Alaska’s first inhabitants.
3. Rich Gold Rush History Step into the gold rush era in Fairbanks! Pan for gold and keep your treasures. Or join the community during the annual Golden Days, a vibrant celebration of the city’s gold rush heritage.
4. Easy Access via Air, Road, Rail and Cruise Fairbanks is easily accessible by air through Fairbanks International Airport including new summer seasonal routes from Salt Lake City and Portland, by road, by rail on the Alaska Railroad, and via cruise ship tours that include land excursions to Fairbanks.
5. An Iconic Historic Park Visit the centrally located Pioneer Park to experience museums, historic buildings and family-friendly attractions. Take a leisurely walk through Alaska’s colorful history, all in one location.
6. Alaska’s State Sport of Dog Mushing Visit a dog kennel, learn about the training of these incredible athletes, and perhaps even take a dog sled ride. Cheer on mushers and their dog teams as they race across challenging snowy terrain. These world-renowned sled dog races showcase the spirit and endurance of Alaska’s dog sledding tradition.
7. Relaxing Natural Hot Springs Unwind in the soothing waters of Chena Hot Springs. These mineral-rich waters offer a rejuvenating retreat from your adventures. Relax and rejuvenate surrounded by stunning natural scenery, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the northern lights while you soak.
8. Locally Made Art and Gifts Find unique treasures and support local artists by exploring Fairbanks’ art galleries, markets and shops that feature Alaskan-made goods. Discover handcrafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, housewares and other Alaskan-made goods.
9. It’s Christmas All Year Visit nearby North Pole, where the spirit of Christmas lives year-round. Explore the Santa Claus House to browse holiday-inspired gifts, snap a photo with Santa and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Explore Silver Bell Square, a new multi-use plaza next to the store.
10. A Vibrant Downtown Explore Fairbanks’ revitalized downtown, with its unique shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. Discover local art, enjoy delicious cuisine and experience the friendly atmosphere of this northern city.
11. A Chance to Cross the Arctic Circle Fairbanks provides easy access to Alaska’s Arctic. Journey by road or air to stand at this symbolic boundary. Capture a photo at the Arctic Circle sign and experience the unique landscapes and phenomena of the far north.
12. Abundant Local Flavors and Libations Savor the unique flavors of Fairbanks at local eateries, breweries and distilleries. From restaurants using locally sourced ingredients to a variety of small-batch breweries and distilleries, enjoy a taste of Alaska’s culinary delights.
13. Stellar Solstice Celebrations Celebrate the summer and winter solstices in Fairbanks. The Summer Solstice is a time of festivals and revelry under the Midnight Sun, while the Winter Solstice marks the return of the light.
14. Larger Than Life Ice Sculptures Experience the magic of ice art, from delicate carvings to towering structures. Be amazed by elaborate sculptures and frozen masterpieces at the annual World Ice Art Championships held in Fairbanks. Explore two ice museums open year-round.
15. Historic Sites and Museums Delve into Fairbanks’ history at various museums and historic sites. Learn about the area’s natural history, cultural heritage and the stories of the people who shaped this unique region.
16. Endless Daylight Experience the magic of Midnight Sun Season, when the sun barely dips below the horizon. For 70 straight days between mid-May and late July, the skies in Fairbanks don’t truly get dark. Take advantage of the extended days to explore, adventure, and soak up the midnight sun.
17. A New Home for Alaska’s Transportation History The Fountainhead Transportation Museum, opening in fall 2025, is a state-of-the-art museum celebrating Alaska’s history of innovation with over 135 vintage cars, rare aircraft, and cultural treasures. Explore immersive exhibits and stunning restorations in a must-see destination for history and transportation enthusiasts that will combine the existing Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum and Pioneer Air Museum into one new location.
18. Festivals, Fairs and Events Galore Fairbanks is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, from rousing street fairs that take over downtown to week-long celebrations and everything in between. Experience the vibrant community spirit and enjoy a variety of entertainment.
19. Unforgettable Adventures to Denali Fairbanks serves as the basecamp to Denali National Park. Enjoy ranger-led programs, hiking trails for all skill levels and scenic bus tours into the heart of the park. Witness the grandeur of Denali and immerse yourself in the pristine Alaskan wilderness.
20. Pristine Waterways for Fishing and Floating Explore the clear waters of local rivers and lakes. Dip a line for fishing in the summer or ice fishing in the winter. Take a scenic riverboat trip, a leisurely float or paddle a kayak and immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
21. Epic Outdoor Winter Adventures Embrace the winter wonderland with exciting outdoor activities. Enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, dog mushing and other thrilling winter adventures in the Fairbanks area. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, the serene landscapes provide the perfect backdrop.
22. Beautiful Flora and Fauna Discover the diverse plant and animal life of Interior Alaska. Observe wildlife such as moose, caribou and cranes, and explore the ecosystems of the boreal forest and tundra. Explore the stunning variety of plants and flowers at a local botanical garden.
23. Reindeer Make Great Friends Get up close with reindeer and learn about their unique adaptations to Arctic life. These enchanting animals offer a memorable connection to Alaska’s wildlife and culture. From quick meet and greets to walks through the boreal forest, spending time with reindeer is a must on your Fairbanks visit!
24. A Tranquil Refuge on the Edge of Town Wander trails through forests and wetlands at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. Located just minutes from downtown, stroll through the boreal forest while keeping an eye out for migratory birds and other local wildlife in their natural habitat.
25. Robust Performing Arts Scene Enjoy a variety of performances, from theater productions to musical concerts. Performing arts venues in Fairbanks range from traditional theaters and concert halls to an open-air venue in a meadow and everything in between.
Explore Fairbanks is a non-profit marketing and management organization whose mission is to be an economic driver in the Fairbanks region by marketing to potential visitors, optimizing the visitor experience, and advocating for a thriving year-round visitor industry. Explore Fairbanks markets Fairbanks as a year-round destination by promoting local events, attractions and activities to independent travelers, group tour operators, travel agents, meeting planners and the media as well as by developing public policy and infrastructure to achieve marketing objectives. Find out more at explorefairbanks.com.
Nancy Singleton Hachisu dives deep into the Japanese food scene, having married a Japanese farmer and learning the intricacies of cooking various vegetables and other ingredients that most of us aren’t familiar with.
For those who want to learn, Hachisu’s recipes require attention to detail and buying foods we may have trouble sourcing. But the results, for those who like a kitchen challenge, are well worth it and as someone who has been following Hachisu and using her cookbooks for years, I can assure you it gets much easier.
It’s a fascinating take on Japanese cuisine from Hachisu, a native Californian who moved to Japan to stay there just for a year and immersed herself in Japanese food culture. Love intervened and after meeting an organic farmer, she married and moved to the rural Saitama Prefecture.
That was more than 30 years ago, time enough for Hachisu to raise a family in an 85-year-old traditional Japanese farmhouse and become proficient in both culture and cooking.
The book is so very niche that it’s almost like being in her kitchen and on her farm, giving us an amazing insight into a tiny slice of Japanese farm culture.
CHILLED UME-TOFU SQUARES IN DASHI
Preparation time: 30 minutes, plus 2-3 hours pressing and chilling
Cooking times: 10-15 minutes
Serves: 4 squares
Vegan, Dairy-free, Nut-free
Junsai, harvested from ponds from May to September, are baby water lily buds called “water shield” in English. They have a natural gelatinous covering so add a cool, slippery element to summer dishes. They might be available at Japanese markets, otherwise just omit or substitute with blanched julienned green beans or cooked edamame. Salted sour “plums” (umeboshi, see page 350) have been prepared in Japan for a millennium, since the Heian period (794–1185), and are purported to have many health-improving qualities, including aiding digestion and combatting summer fatigue during the rainy season. The combination here makes a subtle, but lovely little bite.
INGREDIENTS
• 101⁄2 oz (300 g) cotton tofu or Japanese-style soft block tofu • 1 tablespoon hon kuzu • 2 medium umeboshi • Canola (rapeseed) oil, for greasing the pan • Generous 3/4 cup (63/4 fl oz/200 ml) Konbu Dashi • 1⁄2 tablespoon shoyu • A pinch of flaky sea salt • Scant 1⁄2 cup (31⁄2 fl oz/100 ml) baby water lily buds • Boiling water
DIRECTIONS
Place the tofu on a dinner plate and weight with a small cutting board for 1 hour.
Smash the kuzu to a fine powder in a Japanese grinding bowl (suribachi, see page 354). Squeeze the tofu by handfuls to express excess moisture and drop into the suribachi. Mash into the kuzu until well incorporated.
Cut out the umeboshi pits (stones) and discard. Finely chop the umeboshi and fold into the smashed tofu.
Dampen a folded-up piece of paper towel with the oil and grease the bottom and sides of a 5 1⁄2 × 4 1⁄2 × 2-inch (14 × 11 × 4.5 cm) nagashikan mold (see page 353) or a 4 3⁄8 × 8 1⁄2-inch (11.5 × 21 cm) loaf pan (bottom lined with parchment paper). Scrape the ume-tofu mixture into the pan and rap smartly on the counter to eliminate air pockets and make sure the tofu is evenly distributed into the pan.
Set a bamboo steamer over a large wok filled one-third of the way with water and bring to a boil. Place the pan in the steamer, cover, and steam over high heat for about 10 minutes until set. Remove from the steamer, blot off accumulated moisture, and lay a piece of plastic wrap (cling film) on the surface. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill.
In a small saucepan, stir the dashi, shoyu, and salt together over medium heat to dissolve the salt. Transfer to a small bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour to chill.
Place the junsai in a wire-mesh sieve and pour boiling water over for 10 seconds. Refresh by running the sieve under cold water. Shake off excess water and set the sieve over a bowl to drain. Store in the fridge for 1 hour to chill.
Unmold the umedofu, cut into 4 squares, and place each on a small shallow individual dish. Stir the junsai into the cold dashi and spoon around the umedofu. Serve immediately as a light, palate-cleansing bite.
A contemporary Southern cook from Charleston who channels the traditions and culture of her Gullah/Geechees heritage, Kardea Brown is the Emmy nominated award host of Food Network’s Delicious Miss Brown. The author of The Way Home: A Celebration of Sea Islands Food and Family with over 100 Recipes(HarperOne), Brown is a best selling New York Times author with over 455,000 followers on Instagram. Many of the recipes in her book are those that have been passed down through her grandmother and her mother and celebrate the cuisine of the Gullah/Geechees who originating from West Africa were enslaved on the rice, indigo and Sea Island cotton plantations. Settling along the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia, the Gullah/Geechees have retained many facets of their history including language and foodways. The book, featuring 125 recipes and an array of gorgeous full-color photos, is filled with easy-to-make recipes. Follow Kardea on Instagram.
The following recpes and photos are reprinted with permission from The Way Home.
Chicken & Dumplings
6 Tbsp (¾ stick) unsalted butter, divided
6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 medium yellow onion, diced
4 stalks celery, sliced ½ inch thick
4 medium carrots, sliced into ½-inch-thick rounds
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cloves garlic, chopped
6 cups chicken stock
1 bay leaf
½ bunch fresh parsley leaves, roughly chopped
Dumplings
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp kosher salt
2 Tbsp vegetable shortening
2/3 cup buttermilk
Heat a large braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add 4 Tbsp butter. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper; add to pan. Cook 3 minutes per side or until golden. Transfer to a plate.
Add remaining 2 Tbsp butter, onion, celery and carrots to pan; season with salt and pepper. Cook 3 minutes or until vegetables are coated with fat and slightly golden, stirring frequently and scraping up bits that cling to bottom of pan. Sprinkle with flour; stir until vegetables are coated. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add chicken stock, bay leaf and browned chicken along with any juices that have collected. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook 45 minutes or until chicken is tender and cooked through.
Dumplings
In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Using a fork, cut shortening into flour mixture. Slowly add buttermilk, gently mixing to incorporate.
Remove chicken from pot; shred with 2 forks. Return chicken to pot. Using 2 spoons, sprayed with cooking spray if desired, top stew with 1 Tbsp scoops of dough. Cover; simmer 15 minutes or until dumplings double in size. Remove from heat; discard bay leaf. Garnish with parsley.
Limpin’ Susan
3 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into strips
2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups sliced fresh okra or thawed from frozen
1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken stock
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the bacon to drain on paper towels. Add the shrimp to the bacon fat and cook until just barely seared, about 4 minutes. Remove to a separate plate. Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Stir in the onion and garlic.
Cook until starting to soften, 2 to 3 minutes, then add the okra to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice (this will help cut the slime). Stir in the rice and saute until the onion is lightly browned, about 3 minutes more. Add chicken stock, salt and pepper and bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to loosen any browned bits in the bottom of the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and add the shrimp back to the skillet.
Cover and cook until the rice is tender and cooked through, about 20 minutes. During the last 5 minutes of cooking time, use a fork to stir the bacon into the rice. Fluff and serve.
Benne Wafers
1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1 large egg
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup toasted sesame seeds
Nonstick cooking spray, for your hands
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment.
In the bowl of a stand mixer or in a large bowl with an electric mixer, cream the butter for about 30 second, so that it is even softer. Add the sugar, vanilla, salt, baking soda and egg and beat until just combined. Add the flour and mix until smooth. Stir in the sesame seeds.
Drop the dough by tablespoonful onto the baking sheets, making sure to leave at least an inch between the wafers for spreading. Spray your hands or a spatula with nonstick spray and press the cookies down to keep them from doming.
Bake until golden brown and starting to crisp on the edges, 10 to 12 minutes. Allow the wafers to cool for 1 minute on the baking sheets, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Fans of Shakespeare’s beloved “Romeo & Juliet” will, no doubt, be fascinated by one of the shows currently playing in Chicago.
The musical “& Juliet” takes the bard”s popular tragedy and rewrites the story as an energetic comedic production with a soaring soundtrack featuring contemporary pop tunes by Max Martin.
This jukebox musical offers a fascinating look at what happens if Juliet doesn’t kill herself after Romeo dies. There are many twists and turns in this production which also features creative choreography.
Among actors offering strong performances are Rachel Simone Webb as Juliet, Corey Mach as Shakespeare, Teal Wicks as Anne, Paul Jordan Jansen as Lance and Nick Drake as May.
Anyone who grew up being a fan of the pop hits written by Max Martin will find that the use of these tunes are woven into the production in a clever way. Tunes made famous by Britney Spears, The Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry and others star.
Among the song highlights are “Larger Than Life,” “I Want It That Way,” “Baby One More Time,” “It’s My Life,” “Roar,” “Stronger” and much more.
Get thee to the theater to see this show.
For more information on “& Juliet,” visit BroadwayInChicago.com.
Sidebar: Teal Wicks enjoying Chicago run of ‘& Juliet’
Actor/singer Teal Wicks is thrilled to be starring as Anne Hathaway in the touring production of “& Juliet.”
And being in Chicago for the performance of the show, she said, is wonderful.
“I love Chicago. It’s such a great town,” she said.
“Chicago audiences are very well seasoned. They’re very smart theater goers,” she added.
Wicks said the musical, which was nominated for nine Tony Awards in 2023, is “wrapped in a fun pop” soundtrack with a story which “has a lot of heart.”
The actress said she was drawn to the show after “reading the script,” which she thought was so “clever and funny.”
Wicks said she also fell in love with the character Anne, whom she portrays.
About the Max Martin tunes used in the show, Wicks said it’s such a clever way of weaving them into the script.
She also added the tunes are some of the biggest contemporary hits.
The pop songs, she said, are the true “love language” of today. And that parallels with Shakespeare being the “pop icon” of his time.
Wicks said she’s excited about the fact that “& Juliet” will return to Chicago in 2026. The musical is scheduled to play The Auditorium Theatre July 22 to Aug. 2 in 2026.
Travel/Food is pleased to welcome guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez who will be frequenting contributing to our site. Eloise 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.
When: Sunday, December 22, 2024, with two seatings at 5 pm and 7:30 pm
How: Reservations are required by clicking here, or by calling (260) 278-0674
Tickets are $115 per person
What started years ago as a fun exchange about cheese at Zingerman’s in Ann Arbor, turned into a lasting friendship between Chefs Sean Richardson and Christian Hunter. Since those days, both were recognized in their own right by the James Beard Foundation. Later this month, they will reunite. Only this time, it’s on in the kitchen!
Fort Wayne locals have quickly become Rune devotees since its opening in March of this year. Chef Richardson uses locally raised ingredients for his seasonal menus that introduce guests to an array of international flavors in approachable ways. Chef Christian Hunter has a similar approach at his Michelin-starred restaurant, Atelier, in Chicago. Hunter is now a partner in the restaurant featuring a nightly 12-14 course menu highlighting dishes ranging from home cooking to something more fancy which always “tries to be true to our roots,” said the Lexington, Kentucky native.
The two lauded chefs are joining forces for a one-night-only collaborative tasting dinner at Rune Restaurant on December 22, 2024.
Richardson says guests can expect five courses featuring the best of the region’s producers. He’s excited to share the kitchen with his friend and said, “Any opportunity to share a space with another chef, especially one as successful and down to earth as Christian, is always exciting. The fact that it is our space in my city is extremely exciting.”
“It’s going to be a dinner that honors the local producers. So, I’m here to cook Fort Wayne food, and to learn about Fort Wayne. So, to me, it’s a very cool kind of exchange that we’re about to do. That’s what I’m looking forward to,” said Hunter.
About Christian Hunter
Chef Christian Hunter is inspired by his upbringing, global flavors, sustainable food production, and nutritional anthropology.
He first encountered diverse cuisines in his hometown of Lexington, Kentucky. As soon as he was earning his own money, he’d spend it checking out the newest restaurants in town from Mexican and Thai to Indian. “It was like I was searching for something,” Hunter recalls. That early childhood exposure all comes to fruition on his plates.
His signature style focuses on infusing New American fare with unexpected global flavors. He adds zing to locally sourced products with chermoula, freekeh, berbere, house-made garam masala, salsa macha, locally made miso, and many more.
Hunter has a culinary degree from Paul Smith’s College in upstate New York and has cooked at Relais & Châteaux’s Lake Placid Lodge and The Weekapaug Inn in Rhode Island. He spent four years in Charleston cultivating relationships with local farmers and also his own culinary identity, emphasizing global flavors. He joined Community Table in Litchfield, Connecticut during the challenging year of 2020. Chef used the time to familiarize himself with area farms and shape the culinary direction of the restaurant.
The Chef also brings his Southern heritage to Atelier. Coming from a humble background, he strives to get the most out of everything he brings into the kitchen. Hunter also wants to illuminate the ability of African American chefs to cook amazing food of any cuisine or genre.
Chef Hunter’s notable recognitions thus far:
2024 Chicago Magazine 50 Best New Restaurant
2024 Jean Banchet Rising Star Chef Nominee
2024 James Beard Best New Restaurant Semi-Finalist (Atelier)
2023 Michelin Chicago Young Chef Award Winner
2023 Michelin 1* (Atelier)
2023 James Beard Best Chef Finalist Northeast (Community Table/ CT)
About Sean Richardson
An Indiana native, Chef Sean Richardson remembers cooking alongside his grandparents as a child. Making everything from handmade sausages to varenyky and kapusta, he says that they “taught me what cooking could be.” So, when he moved to Fort Wayne to pursue a degree in creative writing from Purdue University, he also explored what cooking really could be by embarking upon his culinary career starting at The Oyster Bar in 2008, before honing his craft in 2013 at the award-winning Joseph Decuis in Roanoke in Indiana.
In 2017, he joined forces with Chef Aaron Butts to open The Golden in Fort Wayne where he was nominated by the James Beard Foundation as Best Great Chef of Great Lakes. His collaborative efforts have also put him on the map of notable chefs working on projects with Chef Jonathan Brooks of Milktooth, Chef and educator Kate Hill of Camont in Gascony, France, and Chef Dan Barber of Blue Hill at Stone Barn.
Most recently he helmed the culinary program at another Fort Wayne original – Conjure. It was here that he began dreaming about his latest project – Rune Restaurant and Bar which opened its doors in March 2024 in the 07 (46807) neighborhood of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Richardson says that he has worked over the past decade to perfect his voice, and feels he’s finally ready to express a voice that is “loud with big flavors, a bit chaotic, technical when it needs to be, but never fussy, and always delicious.” He and his wife, Natasha, live in the neighborhood and value family time with their two sons – Rune and Casper. He also explores his creative expression by writing songs with his band –Best Sleep which performs regularly at various listening rooms in Fort Wayne.
Virtue Cider founder Gregory Hall, a pioneer in the farmhouse cider industry and a major player in Southwest Michigan’s craft beverage landscape, has repurchased the proper farmhouse cider brand from beer titan Anheuser-Busch. Nestled in the distinctive fruit-growing terroir of coastal Southwest Michigan, which Greg deems the “Napa Valley of cider making,”
Virtue Cider is taking its sustainable old-world production methods back to its independent roots, bringing the brand’s deep commitment to clean, high-quality ciders to new heights with a series of announcements for the new era. These include a full distribution overhaul, a farmhouse tasting room renovation coupled with a new menu direction, guest chef dinners, local artist collaborations and a reinvigorated direct-to-drinker subscription service delivering sustainable sips nationwide.
“My heart and soul have always been devoted to crafting independent beverages that connect with our local community,” says Hall. “I’ve poured myself into building both Goose Island and Virtue Cider on this foundation, guided by a passion for creativity and collaboration. As Virtue Cider enters this new chapter, I’m excited to return to our roots, refine our winemaker’s approach to craft cider, and rediscover the sense of independence that inspires us and helps us grow.”
Following his 20-year tenure at Goose Island Beer Company, founded by his father John Hall, Greg immersed himself in European cider culture, soaking up time-honored techniques from some of England and France’s top cider craftsmen. He brought that same spirit home to the United States, purchasing the brand’sFennville, Michigan farm in 2011 and building a haven for craft cider production anchored in two ingredients: apples and time.
Hall sold a 51% stake in Virtue Cider to Anheuser-Busch in 2015 and reacquired the brand in late summer 2024. A constant throughout Virtue Cider’s history, the brand will continue to use only local heirloom fruit with absolutely no added sugar, uplifting the apple farmers of the Midwest’s “Cider Coast” and raising a glass to sustainable Michigan-made sips.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN VIRTUE CIDER’S NEW CHAPTER:
Once again embracing its spirit of independence, Virtue Cider is leaving big beer-backed cans on grocery store shelves behind and committing to 750 ML bottles, only available at Virtue Farm or through the brand’s robust direct-to-drinker shipping program.
In tandem, Hall will stay true to his love of grassroots relationship development in the chef community, pouring new seasonal releases and beloved bottle varieties at intimate gatherings inside some of the Midwest’s best chef-driven restaurants.
Hall will also welcome some of the nation’s most prominent culinary talents to Fennville for guest chef dinners with fine cider pairings, embracing the local bounty of the micro-region.
On the 48-acre Virtue Farm, the tasting room will undergo extensive renovations and welcome a vibrant new food program, with a menu refresh to align with the brand’s wine-making approach to cider. Menu details are forthcoming but will focus on seasonal, homestyle comforts made with regionally sourced ingredients.
Hall and his team are also excited to continue nurturing their direct-to-drinker and Cider Society subscription box programs, delivering proper farmhouse cider from the fermentation tank to the front porch. Cider enthusiasts in 43 states across the country can give the gift of Michigan cider to themselves and their loved ones with access to holiday boxes and exclusive seasonal releases.
Virtue Cider has also forged new partnerships with local musicians and makers through amped-up live music programming at Virtue Farm and merchandise and cider label partnerships with acclaimed regional artists. Tony Fitzpatrick, whose work has been showcased at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, is the first of many Midwest artists to join the list of collaborators.
More details on Virtue Cider’s upcoming craft cider releases, renovations, events, and more to be released in 2025. For more information, follow Virtue Cider on Instagram or visit the website at www.virtuecider.com.
ABOUT VIRTUE CIDER: Located on a 48-acre farm in Fennville, Michigan, Virtue Cider is a craft cider company committed to creating exceptional farmhouse ciders that blend old-world traditions with modern cider fermentation and aging techniques. Embracing a deep-rooted respect for sustainable practices and local partnerships, Virtue was founded in 2011 by Gregory Hall, who brought two decades of innovation and an impressive collection of 14 consecutive Great American Beer Festival medals from his tenure as head brewmaster at Goose Island Beer Company.
After his time at Goose Island, Hall set out on a pilgrimage to the cider capitals of England and France to study time-honored European cider-making traditions, and Virtue was born. Virtue Farm, Virtue Cider’s headquarters, is specifically located in the heart of one of the country’s premier apple-growing regions, known as the Midwest’s “Cider Coast.” Hall has cultivated a deep bench of local farming partners, using the bounty of the highest quality Midwestern heirloom apples to craft a collection of crisp, complex, award-winning ciders, which never contain added sugar.
Apples are pressed on-site and fermented in tanks below ground to maintain a steady temperature, housed within three cider houses with architecture that emulates the Norman French style and a strong environmental focus. Virtue Cider’s farm is open year-round and is a vibrant destination for visitors, offering scenic trails, a tasting room featuring a seasonal menu and samples of a variety of ciders, cider flights, and more from their extensive portfolio. For more information on Virtue Cider, please visit www.virtuecider.com.
ABOUT VIRTUE FARM: Virtue Farm, located in Fennville, Michigan, is a 48-acre farm and the destination headquarters of Virtue Cider. Three Norman French-style cider houses, built with Michigan White Pine, hold Virtue’s below-ground fermentation tanks, which use only locally sourced apples and are naturally cooled and heated by the region’s climate.
Most of the farm’s electricity is sourced from 200 solar panels, just one piece of the farm’s vast commitment to sustainability and nourishing its community. Over 20 acres of the farm are grasslands, creating a monarch waystation for Michigan pollinators, and the farm is home to several Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs, harking back to old orchard folklore, as well as a variety of chickens. Virtue Farm also features a full tasting room with cider flights, handhelds, and charcuterie selections, offers guided tastings and tours for visitors, hosts live music, and supplies seasonal bottle selections for Virtue Cider’s national Cider Society subscription service.
Next up we have Dortmunder Weihnachtsmarkt, situated in the beautiful city of Dortmund. Being one of the markets on the list that has more than one hashtag variation, this popular market is one of the largest in Germany. With the opportunity to ice skate hand in hand or watch a spectacular live performance with your loved one, this market serves the perfect romantic scene. It would be a disservice not to speak on the market’s most famous feature—its dazzling Christmas tree. It stands more than 45 meters tall and is coined as one of the largest in the world, making a stunning proposal spot.
Frankfurt’s Christmas Market attracts more than 3 million visitors per year, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. It is a traditional winter market full of festivities, with Christmas carols and church bells ringing, located in the scenic old town centre, decorated with thousands of lights, ribbons, and bells. For a perfect proposal, the balcony of St. Nicholas Church overlooking the market is ideal—offering breathtaking views of the festive lights and perfect for those looking for a more private, intimate setting to pop the question with it being outside the market.
Up next is Cranger Weihnachtszauber, situated in Herne. The market spans across 30,000 metres of land and is home to more than 100 attractions, shows, and live acts, so it’s safe to say you’re in for a treat no matter what day you go. For those looking to propose, why not take it on the ice? With a beautifully illuminated ice rink, it creates the perfect magical backdrop, and one your loved one will definitely not forget.
Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt takes place during Advent in the Hauptmarkt, the central square in Nuremberg’s old town. Reaped with history and activities for all, from live performances to adventure tours, it’s perfect for families, couples, and friends. The perfect proposal spot here is the balcony of the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady). This balcony overlooks the market and exudes timeless historical charm.
“This year, people seem to have gotten a jump on hauling out the holly and decorating everything that’s not moving,” writes my friend Mindy Bianca, owner of Mindy Bianca Public Relations. “But we suggest taking that holiday spirit on the road and having a few experiences that could result in the best gift of the season: memories made with family and friends. From reindeer prancing through Kentucky to a gingerbread display that hits it out of the park in New York, there’s no shortage of merry and bright adventures waiting in some of MBPR’s client destinations. Get ready to unwrap some one-of-a-kind happenings that will make your season extra bright this year.”
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to embrace the magic than spending time with Santa’s favorite critters? This hands-on farm experience lets you get close to a team of more than eight not-so-tiny reindeer, plus you can take a ride on a festive sleigh, stroll through holiday-themed displays and ice sculptures, and spend time with the jolly guy himself. New this year, the farm just added a zipline, so if the sight of these creatures playing reindeer games inspires YOU to really know how to fly … have at it!
“Let it snow” might not be the theme of a Louisiana Christmas, but that doesn’t mean the holiday season is any less jolly here. At Houmas House Estate and Gardens, the Southern Christmas vibe is strong, with majestic oak trees draped in twinkling lights and a grand historic home decked out like something straight out of a classic holiday movie. Guests can stroll the beautifully lit gardens, have a cup of cheer and enjoy delicious culinary offerings.
Frostburg, located on the Mountain Side of Maryland, is home to the nationally recognized Storybook Holiday event, complete with the ever-popular Elf Olympics, kid’s activities, a Christmas market, shops, a featured children’s author and a parade led by none other than Jack Frost himself. Fitting for a town named “Frost”-burg, Mr. Frost closes out the day’s activities by hosting a town-wide snowball fight. The 21st annual Storybook Holiday is scheduled for Saturday, December 7. Even if you can’t make it to town on that particular day, Frostburg is one of the most charmingly decorated holiday towns on the East Coast throughout the season.
They say there’s no place like home for the holidays, but what if you could enjoy all the cozy vibes without the food prep and dirty dishes, laborious set-up and take-down of decorations, and the ensuing stress? Have yourself a merrier little Christmas at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa or Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Cozy accommodations, carolers and holiday-themed packages (including one featuring a tree in your room) will make your stay as sweet as sugar plums. And just in case your holiday barometer measures in this way: This part of east Tennessee was the set for a bonafide Hallmark movie, “Christmas at Dollywood,” back in 2019.
The Otesaga Resort Hotel is the place to stay during a visit to Cooperstown, home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum. Each year, The Otesaga’s culinary team pulls out all the stops to create an amazing gingerbread creation that’s proudly displayed throughout the holiday season. This time they’ve hit a home run by building a gingerbread replica of historic Doubleday Field. For nearly 100 years, this celebrated baseball stadium has seen everyone from Hall of Famers to lucky kids play America’s pastime here in the village. Now it’s been transformed into gingerbread and royal icing.
Photo courtesy of the Dollywood Company.
If you’re dreaming of a merry and bright holiday season, gather your loved ones, pack your favorite holiday sweaters (ugly or not) and get ready to make memories that will last way longer than the extra pounds you pick up during this festive time of year.
