Atlantic County Magazine – GACCA Article
Print Date 12.3. 2021
By Judy Brenna, Catering & Special Events Director, The Deauville Inn
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… and Hannukah… and Kwanza… and a few pagan holidays… and… well, anyhoodles. Regardless, it’s the holiday season ((confetti cannons blasting simultaneously))! There is a lot going on this year, and it’s important to add, NOW is the time to start planning. This month is going to go very fast and before you know it, you’re finding yourself home on the couch in footie pajamas, in a rather sour disposition, wondering what happened, thinking, “I thought I had more time!”. So, strap in ((feel free to keep the footie pjs on)), we’re going to dive into this right away.
Let’s talk about Bally’s. There is so much going on. Enjoy everything from holiday shows, a new winter-themed bar, beautiful decor, holiday dinners, beverages, and more! To call out a few ideas, there’s the 7 Fish Dinner at Jerry Longo’s Meatballs and Martini, or a 3-course Lamb Chop Dinner at Guy Fieri’s Chophouse on Christmas Day. Jerry Blavat’s NYE Bash is always a great time, this year featuring The Legendary Blue Notes. But, let’s talk about this pop-up bar. New to Bally’s this holiday season is the Frost Bar which features festive holiday cocktails, live holiday music, sing-alongs, movies, and more. Don’t miss their Ugly Sweater Contest Friday, December 10 at 10 PM ((fun side note, I won this contest once at a party because my sweater had Jesus wearing a Santa hat, holding up two wine bottles with the caption "go me, it's my birthday")). When visiting Bally’s, bring a new unwrapped toy for their Toys for Tots drive and park for free when dining in or with a show ticket purchase. And while you’re at, enter to win their $100,000 New Year’s sweepstakes.
Consider celebrating the Holidays at Ocean. Here’s why: amazing entertainment, festive cocktails, and over-the-top Christmas décor, all under one roof. You know how funny cute little humans can get when they see fireworks or twinkly lights? You get that effect here at Ocean. Ocean will also be celebrating the Festival of Lights at Makai by indulging in traditional dishes with an island twist for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But what really striked my fancy is this concept of their pop-up bar. Check out Ocean’s pop-up bar, the Jingle Bell Bar, if you’re looking for a unique holiday experience, featuring festive cocktails, nostalgic décor, and themed entertainment every weekend throughout the season. Check these out and more holiday happenings at https://www.theoceanac.com/holidays-at-ocean-casino-resort/
Showboat is decked out for the season and ready for Santa this year. Saint Nick will be at Showboat Friday, December 3, 10, and 17 between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. and on Saturday, December 4, 11, and 18 between noon and 2 p.m. I'm assuming they're giving him a VIP penthouse suite. A photographer will be on hand to take photos, which will be available through a link provided to parents. And in the true spirit of giving, ((because let’s remember, folks, that IS what this season is all about)) Showboat is donating $5 to The Sunshine Foundation for every letter dropped in Santa’s magic mailbox, located at the Lucky Snake Arcade entrance. And each child who participates will receive a $5 play card to the arcade. Kids of all ages can enjoy everything from the Virtual Reality Roller Coaster Storm to playing vintage and modern-day Pinball in the largest arcade on the East Coast.
Speaking of Santa, he and Mrs. Claus will be at Storybook Land November 13 thru December 23 ((he’s clearly commuting from Showboat)). See Santa Claus wave his magic wand and light Storybook Land with over one million lights for the holiday season. Storybook Land's Christmas Fantasy with Lights is a South Jersey Christmas tradition, as we well know, as seen on ABC's "The Great Christmas Light Fight." For tickets, hours and park information go here https://storybookland.com.
Christmas isn’t Christmas without the Nutcracker ((as I involuntarily twinge when I hear the first few measures of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy… that’s a different story for a different article)). The Atlantic City Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker Sunday, December 19, 2021, at 5 pm., at the Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars. Young and old alike will experience the many magical moments, of this beloved holiday ballet classic. There’s no better way to spend the holidays with family and friends than by sharing Atlantic City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker. Get your tickets at Ticketmaster.
And not to be a broken record, but… The Deauville Inn is hosting a stellar Brunch with Santa, Saturday, December 18th, and Sunday, December 19th, with cookie decorating for the kiddos, Bloody Mary Experience, and our new line of Brunch Cocktails for adults, and the big guy himself, Santa, is stopping by to take pictures with the kids, velvet throne and all. Don’t miss out! Make your reservations today: https://www.deauvilleinn.com/happenings. More next week on our huge New Year’s Eve Bash!
On a semi-related note, I’m starting to seriously not envy Santa. He’s so busy this time of year, with endless engagements and appearances, and then his big trip on Christmas Eve, it’s no wonder he stress-eats. Let’s see how your diet is after working over a month straight without a break. I’m still trying to figure out how to handle being an adult with a full-time job after being unemployed for so long. I cry on my drive home at the end of a 45-hour work week. I wouldn’t want to be in his shoes. Although... ((wheels in head turning)) it IS a very good excuse to binge on cookies…hmm. Until next week, folks… #stayjerseystrong!