#2024 ice fairy festival

[magicmorningmeteora]

Notice Regarding the Ice Fairy Festival

As you might's figured out from the 9ki-related M3 Mystery, the 2024 Ice Fairy Festival is coming soon.

This year’s iteration will run from:

Start Date and Time: September 8, 2024 6:00 AM EDT/10:00 UTC (Calculate local time here)

Final Post Date and Time: September 10, 2014 7:00 AM EDT/11:00 UTC (Calculate local time here)

If you do not want your dashboard to be bombarded with Ice Fairies, I suggest you blacklist the tags #ice fairy festival and #2024 ice fairy festival until Monday morning Eastern US time (7am to be exact) (or just forever).

Thank you.

❤ Magi-Kath

[hecrtled]

@clxscdeyes

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧ RIGHT WHEN LUNA was about to head out their front door , a TWINKLING LIGHT zipped right in front of the doorknob and stopped her ! no , no , no ! the little jingles seemed to say , punctuated by the fairy's arms drawing a big 'x' in front of her chest.

after placing her hands on her hips to show that she was absolutely serious , fawn pointed towards luna and held up a finger. wait just one second !

and then she was off again , leaving a trail of pixie dust in her wake.

then : noises of things falling , and movement shuffling could be heard from outside of fawn's room. within moments , fawn was flying back , carrying a wreath two sizes far too big for her — and an absolutely perfect size to slip onto luna's wrist. it was woven of leaves , tiny white and yellow flowers , acorns and twirling vines curled and braided to a fairy's touch. even now , it glittered and glowed with pixie dust.

when it was safely secured on luna's person , fawn fluttered back and stuck her tongue out in deep thought as she took all of luna in. no , no , fawn , it was DEFINITELY the right call.

‹ there. now you look absolutely FLUTTERIFIC ! ›

[judesmoonbeauty]

2024 Villain’s Festival: Jude Jazza Bonus Story Part 2 ♛

Fan translation only. Not 100% accurate. Please expect grammatical errors. Cybird owns everything. Feel free to re-blog, but please do NOT post my translations elsewhere. *I don't know what happened today, but I was exhausted and for some reason, part 2 was extremely difficult to translate. I had to edit the entire thing three times, so I apologize if the translation isn't as smooth as it could be. But I hope you still enjoy our sadistic fairy in part 2 ♥︎

In the meantime, Jude and I decided to have breakfast, so we visited a nearby park.

I sit down on the grass with a good view and take a bite of the bread that was just handed to me.

Kate: Mm….delicious!

Kate: The bread served at Crown Castle is good, but I like the buttery flavor of the bread here!

Jude: Well, good for ya.

Kate: By the way, Jude, you know a lot about the bread I like, don’t you?

Jude: It's a basic part of business to learn people's tastes and preferences. Ya were just in my head because ya were being so loud.

Jude: Instead, there's no hope for ya, I'll take ya around on my own today.

(Jude is willing to spend time with me, even if it's for money.)

Jude would be able to forcefully take the necklace from me.

But instead of doing that, he is following the rules and trying to steal my heart.

(Jude is a man who keeps his promises, no matter what they are.)

Kate: Jude, I'm going to make some  conditions for you to take my heart.

Jude: Conditions? You're so high and mighty, tellin’ people what to do. Since when did ya become such a big woman?

Kate: Because the heart is invisible, so I think it's better to have some kind of clear goal.

Jude: Tell me.

Kate: Food that I will never forget, food that I’ll truly enjoy, and will want to continue to eat. 

Jude: Find this…….

Jude: That’s too many conditions.

Kate: Because with fewer requirements, you would find them too quickly Jude.

Jude: Tch…..Let’s go.

From then until sunset, Jude took me around to various shops.

Jude: Oi…. You've got to stop this. Why can’t I pass the review?

Kate: Jude, It's true that the food at the restaurant you introduced me to is delicious, right?

Kate: However, if you ask me if I would go there myself, I would say...

The shop Jude introduced me to has slightly higher prices than the shops I usually go to.

Of course, the taste is guaranteed to be worth the price, but it's difficult to buy it myself so often.

(However, since he spent so much time introducing various things, I guess it would be better to let him pass the review...)

(It's already late and I'm getting full from eating so much...)

Kate: Jude, thank you for your time today.

Kate: Well, as a thank you for keeping me company all day, I'd like to give you the necklace... ....

Jude: That’s different from the first condition. There's no point in acceptin’ it like that.

Surprisingly, Jude did not accept my necklace.

Jude is very rule-abiding and disciplined.

(But I'd like to give something back…..)

(….that’s it.)

Kate: Jude, we've been walking a lot, so why not have something cold to eat at the end? My treat. 

I told Jude to wait for me and bought some ice cream from the street corner.

Kate: It's much cheaper than the food that you introduced me to today Jude, but...

I handed one to Jude, who accepted it without a word.

Kate: Hm…delicious! After a long day of walking, something cold and sweet hits the spot. 

Jude: Well, that's about right.

When I was looked at Jude from the side, our gazes collided with each other.

Jude: Isn't it bad manners to stare at other people eatin’?

Kate: Because I was so happy to see your ‘it’s delicious face’ that I just couldn't resist, Jude.

Kate: It's cheap and easy to buy, so you can eat it like this over and over again.

Kate: Next time I eat it, I will surely remember today!

Jude: You're such a long-winded princess, aren'tcha?

Kate: What?

Jude: The conditions have been met.

I didn't mean to say much, but Jude chuckled.

Jude: Food that you’ll never forget, food that you’ll truly enjoy, and will want to continue to eat.

Jude: I've met all three. I wasn't told it was my job to find them.

Kate: Haha…

Jude: There's nothin’ to laugh at.

Kate: When we first met today, Jude had changed the way he spoke, and I felt very uncomfortable.

Kate: Just….I'm so relieved to see that you're your usual self Jude.

Victor declared, "The supreme evil that steals her heart will be the winner.”

The title of the greatest evil is worthy of the current Jude, who never gave up on winning until the very end.

Kate: Please. It's the necklace I promised you.

Jude: Hah....... I can't believe it took me this long to get here, I didn't attack this right the first time.

Jude: Ya weren't satisfied with the kind young man you see in romance novels.

Jude: You'll be happy if I torture ya like I always do, won’tcha?

Kate: That’s an improper expression!

Jude: There's no such thing as an improper expression, is there Princess?

Kate: It’s differ….

I hastily swallow the denial that almost leaves my mouth.

(Because if I deny Jude's words now.….)

(……I was satisfied, not because I like to be tortured)

(I liked Jude as he was, not as a nice young man.)

Jude: I knew it.

Mr. Jude throws a ridiculing look at me as I remain silent.

I gave my heart to an arrogant fairy who shot me with his gaze.

[Previous] [Master List]

[hecrtled]

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧ ALL FAIRIES WERE told that they should absolutely never be seen by humans when they were visiting the mainland for the seasons. but ever since fawn had found herself in A WHOLE NEW WORLD , with new friends and critters and creatures to meet , even she could say that she'd gotten ever - so - slightly BOLDER with time . ( wouldn't TINK be proud ! )

still cautious . but bolder .

so here she was , CAREFULLY making her way down the beach. helping baby seagulls flap their wings and catch the ocean currents , or even tracking the elusive ursa mantas ! when she'd been spotted by the girl , she'd been helping henry the hermit crab find a new shell . HE had scurried right into it , frightened by the sudden noise of the girls' exclamation . fawn's wings had fluttered faster — INSTINCT taking hold to dart off and hide in the nearest brush or patch of palm fronds. . . but she didn't .

yep ! bold was definitely fawn's new look !

petting the smooth chitin of henry's new shell , fawn fluttered up to eye level of the clumsy and couldn't help but laugh , her voice carrying like little bells through the air. with a gesture to the ocean , the sun , and a little twirl in the air , the little fairy's message was clear : she loved the beach ! especially when there were critters out and about .

−−−  ꧁  the roll of the waves among the shoreline was a sound of comfort -- of consistency and predictability . it was an obsessively warm day , with only a wide brimmed hat sparing her from the worst of the sun's rays . . . if it weren't for her new found dedication to volunteerism , zelda might have detoured to one of the many tents set up for familiar beach parties being had .

but shirking her responsibilities was never her style , no matter the weather . at least by the coastline the water could occasionally brush over her sandals . bag of trash already heavy in her hand , zelda pauses to wipe the sweat collected under her hat , when something glimmering catches her eye --

had the sun dazzled her for too long , or had she just laid eyes on . . .

" a fairy -- how fortunate !! ♥ " zelda's breath is caught at the rare sighting , giddied with her discovery , " have you come all this way to help keep out beaches clean ?? i've never known of fairies favoring the coastlines . "

@hecrtled

[asystolenheart]

🫀‼️DAMINIKA WEEK PROMPT VOTING WILL BEGIN TOMORROW‼️🫀

Everyone who participated in Flatline Week 2024 was messaged to submit prompt ideas for Daminika Week, now everyone who participated will be able to vote for 12 prompts they want to follow for Daminika Week !! The following are all the prompt ideas submitted, we wanted to give those who are voting time to decide what they will vote for, voting begins at the end of this timer.

Reunion -

Prom / School Dance -

Band AU -

Painter x Muse -

Comfort -

Beach Day / Beach -

Goodbyes -

Alternative Styles (emo, grunge, goth, v-kei / visual kei) -

Cartoon -

Historical Era (pick your favorite period in history and draw damian and nika in it) -

Funko Pop -

Cottage Core -

Video Game -

Gala / Formal -

Festival / Parade -

Manga Shopping -

My Chemical Romance -

Traditional Clothing -

Selfies - Amusement Park -

K-Pop -

Meeting the Family -

Training -

Pets / Animals -

Cosplay or Halloween Costume -

Vocaloid -

Genderbend / Gender Swap, or GL (Girl's Love) / BL (Boy's Love) -

Casual / Civilian -

Batmobile Joyride -

Horror Movie -

Neopets -

Role Reversal -

Royalty x Pirate -

Angel x Demon -

Dinner with the Al Ghul's -

JonJay Double Date -

First Date / Day Out -

Celebrity x Singer -

Vampire x Hunter -

Outfit Swap / Costume Swap -

Snow Day -

Stargazing -

Mythology -

Sharing Slushies (or ICEEs or Slurpies works too) -

Pocky Challenge -

Trick or Treat -

Ice Skating -

Cooking / Baking -

Dictionary (find a word and its meaning and make content of Damian and Nika based on that) -

Music (make content based on lyrics that remind you of Damian and Nika) -

Dancing -

Picnic -

Patrol Night / Fighting Together -

Concert -

Stolen Heart -

Texting each other -

Drawing (Damian and Nika drawing each other or together) -

Indie Horror Game -

Meister and Weapon (Soul Eater) -

In Every Universe (soulmates) -

Pining -

Phone Call -

Sunset -

Team Up With Other Heroes -

Spending Holidays Together -

In Beast World -

Trying each others traditional food -

Styling each others clothes -

Matching Outfits -

Twitter Post's -

Fursona -

My Little Pony / Pony Design -

Panel Redraw -

Time Loop AU (Nika and Damian stuck in a time-loop reliving the same day over and over again) -

Royalty AU

School AU / High School AU / Academic Rivalry -

Detective AU / Damian Vane x Nika Noir -

Paranormal AU -

Fairy Tale AU -

Damian's Shoujo Manga AU -

Shoujo Manga AU -

Medieval AU -

Body Swap AU -

Bodyguard AU -

Vampire AU -

Karaoke Night -

Flowers or Flower Picking -

Zoo Visit -

League of Assassins -

Future Self -

Long Distance -

Sanrio -

Monster High -

!!Selecting more than 12 prompts on the voting form will result in an error and you will not be able to submit your vote!!

These are all fan submitted prompts and we thank everyone who took the time and submitted prompt ideas <3

-Flatline Week Team

[dailydemonspotlight]

Day 11 - Pyro Jack / Jack-o'-lantern

Race: Fairy

Alignment: Neutral

April 3rd, 2024

On the streets at night in the cold, deep darkness, a candle flickers. You know this means only one thing. Hallow's eve is right around the corner. Introducing the second of the Jack Bros, Pyro Jack!

In Ireland since the 1700's, it's been a tradition to put up Jack-o'-lanterns as the month errs towards Halloween, inspired by the legend of a man known as 'Stingy Jack.' According to the story, there was a tricky drunk in an Irish town with the name Jack, a man who would sell a soul for six silver coins or break into a bank in order to fuel his ever-growing reliance on booze. He was hated, by even the heavens itself, yet soon he found himself at death's door. That is when the Devil came to him, to see if he was truly as terrible as the stories painted him out to be.

One night, Jack wandered the cobblestone roads before coming to a dreadful sight- a body, laying smack-dab in the center of the road. However, it had a face not of death, but rather, devilish envy, as the Devil himself made his presence known. Jack had one last request, one typical of a drunkard- to get one last drink in before the end. The Devil obliged, likely finding it foolish, and took him to a pub, where they both drank the night away. Jack, then, asked the Devil to cover his tab. His idea? To turn the beast into a silver coin. Impressed by his trickiness, the Devil did as asked... only to be slipped into a pocket with a crucifix, held captive by slippery Jack, who had now fucked with the devil himself. Baffled and trapped, the two made a deal- Jack would be given 10 more years on the earth.

Unsurprisingly, when the time came, Jack yet again tricked the Devil, and was granted eternal recompense, as the Devil was forced to make him never go to hell. Ever. When Jack's time came, however, his life of deceit and fraud only gave him a ticket out of Heaven's pearly gates, and the Devil wasn't one to give up on a deal either, so he was eventually forced back to earth, forever to roam as a lost spirit held alive by the flickering light of a lantern within a turnip. Ever since, Jack-o'-lanterns have been a popular tradition of Halloween, originally starting as incredibly freaky looking rutabagas before eventually changing to the far more iconic autumn fruit of a pumpkin.

The idea behind the lighting of the Jack-o'-lanterns is scarcely known, but it's mostly thought to be a tradition to help guide Stringy Jack along the roads and to help his soul find peace in his eternal roaming of the plains of earth.

Pyro Jack, unsurprisingly, is based on Jack-o'-lanterns, though mostly in his pumpkin head. The lantern he carries is likely an allusion to Stringy Jack, lighting the way for his soul to wander aimlessly in the megaten world. Being the second Jack Brother, Pyro Jack is also his counterpart, representing the flame to Jack Frost's ice. Pyro Jack is also based on the phenomenon of Will-o'-wisps, flickering lights that appear in the dead of night with no real explanation, typically around swampland and forests.

He typically appears in every SMT game, mostly as an early game demon, as well as a component to his big brother, Black Frost. Overall, Pyro Jack has a fun and festive Halloween design, some really fun folklore, and, while simple, works as a perfectly effective little spooky spirit in the smt series.

[gorbigorbi]

Anna Tsygankova as Fairy and Timothy van Poucke as Young Man, "The Fairy’s Kiss" based on the short story "Isjomfruen The Ice Maiden" by Hans Christian Andersen, choreographer Aleksey Ratmansky, music by Igor Stravinsky ("Le Baiser de la fée"), set and costume design by Jérôme Kaplan, Het Nationale Ballet / Dutch National Ballet, Het Muziektheatre, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

As part of the program "Stravinsky Fairy Tales" ("The Ice Maiden" and "The Firebird", both ballets with choreography by Aleksey Ratmansky and music by Igor Stravinsky) and within the framework of the "2024 Holland Festival".

Co-production with Norwegian National Opera and Ballet.

Photographer Altin Kaftira

[elsanna-shenanigans]

September 2024 Contest Submission #3: Costume Confessions

Words: 3,337 Setting: modern AU CW: none

Anna adjusted a black and gold pirate hat atop her red, billowy hair and glanced at herself in the mirror, her heart racing with excitement but nervousness. Tonight was a Halloween costume party at their friend Kristoff’s house, and she and Elsa had decided to go as a pirate and a mermaid, respectively. She put about two months' worth of work into her outfit just for this event. Their costumes, although simplistic in idea, were a playful nod to their childhood fascination with fantasy, fairy tales, and adventure, which seemed fitting for the occasion. But tonight, Anna was more jumpy than usual. She had something important to confess to Elsa, something that had been building up inside her for a long time. The two had known each other their entire lives, growing up the pair was inseparable. They had gone to the same school since primary, participated in a lot of the same extracurriculars and sports throughout high school, and now, they even go to the same university.  

Their bond had always been strong, but over the past year, Anna’s feelings had deepened into something more. She had fallen in love with Elsa, and the thought of admitting her feelings filled her with both hope and fear. ‘What if Elsa doesn’t feel the same way? What if I ruin our friendship?’ She couldn’t hold it in any longer.

“Anna, are you ready?” Elsa’s voice boomed from below in the living room, breaking Anna away from her thoughts.  

Anna gulped and yelled, “Coming!” She took a deep breath and adjusted her hat one last time before heading out to meet Elsa. Each step down the staircase felt like a hundred miles, her eyes didn’t leave her feet until she reached the bottom. Bringing her attention back up, her eyes instantly locked onto Elsa in front of her.  

Elsa looked stunning in her mermaid costume, her long, flaxen hair flowing down her back, adorned with aquamarine seashells and white, frosty glitter. She turned to face Anna with a soft smile, “You look amazing.” Elsa eyed Anna up and down starting with her tricorn hat, that led to a ruffled white blouse with a low neck, a black vest adorned with gold buttons holding the shirt around her chest with a red sash tied around her waist, and last but not least, a pair of black knee-high leather boots. 

Anna looked to the floor, slightly embarrassed, and inspected her friend’s costume in return. Elsa wore a shimmery, sequined, sea-green tail skirt that flared out at the bottom, a fitted, shell-adorned top, and a delicate crown of seashells. The shells, pearls, and glitter woven into her hair only stood to compliment her icy blue eyes. 

“You too,” Anna replied, feeling her cheeks flush. As she struggled to maintain eye contact. She searched around in her brain for something to end the awkward silence that followed. “Ready to make a splash?” She asked with instant regret and internally chided herself for making such a corny joke; however, this was not out of character for the woman. Elsa covered her mouth and giggled, a warm sound that always made Anna’s heart flutter.  

“Absolutely. Let’s go, captain,” Elsa winked and led the way.  

— 

The party was already in full swing when the pair arrived. The house was decorated with cobwebs, pumpkins, and eerie LCD lighting, creating a spooky yet festive atmosphere. Guests mingled in their costumes, and the air was filled with music, chattering, laughter, and a little bit of dry ice for faux smoke effects. Kristoff had a propensity for being unabashedly himself, which was also synonymous with being the life of the party. If there were any less decorations, Anna and Elsa would have been disappointed. 

As they entered the main living space the host of the party himself greeted them with a wide grin. “Anna, Elsa! Great costumes! You two look perfect together.” 

Anna and Elsa exchanged a glance, both smiling and trying to internally guess what Kristoff’s costume was. He wore, what appeared to be, grey and brown animal pelts with a tunic, tied in with leather accessories like a belt. Anna pondered and tapped her finger on her chin. 

“Thanks, Kristoff,” Elsa bit her lip and tightened her brow, “What...” 

Based on the judgment creeping out of Elsa’s face and knowing her friend’s tendency for speaking her mind without fully understanding that her words may come off as condescending, Anna knew her friend’s question was going to come off with a tinge of rudeness. 

“What an amazing costume!” Anna finished her sentence, perhaps not in the way Elsa intended. “Let me guess, you are a... Reindeer Herder!” 

“Oh, so close,” Kristoff laughed and slapped his knee. “I am an ice harvester. What can I say, I love ice?” Unknowingly adding to the women’s confusion, he pulls a carrot out of his back pocket and takes a bite. “Glad you like it though! Help yourselves to the food and drinks. We have games and a costume contest later, so stick around.” He wiggled his eyebrows as he side-stepped away from the conversation. 

“He never changes, does he?” Elsa crossed her arms and leaned into Anna.  

“Nope.” Anna agreed, trying to ignore the light touch on her own arm.  

The two wandered through the crowd, Elsa leading the way. They took time greeting friends and admiring the various costumes. Their friend Aurora was dressed as a princess, she always had to be the best looking one at the party. Her girlfriend Mulan was by her side in full knight attire. Another couple they’ve known since high school, Ariel and Eric, also went the royalty route, however instead of a dashing knight, Eric chose to be a charming prince. Anna could sense Ariel’s jealousy of Aurora’s attire but knew she would never say anything. Other various couple’s costumes were spread across the party. There was a Barbie and Ken pair, a Harley Quinn and Joker pair, and a Shaggy and Fred from Scooby-Doo.  As they walked around the large house, they saw an astronaut, a sumo wrestler, even a large ornate dragon costume. Many of the costumes were very well done, causing Anna to look at her own with disapproval.  

Elsa noticed Anna sink into herself again and tugged on her arm, “Anna?” Her raspy yet sultry voice caused a heat in Anna’s stomach. 

“Yes?” Anna squeezed Elsa’s arm in return but didn’t look at her.  

“Is something wrong?” 

“No, I mean, not really. It’s just...” Anna trailed off and looked around the party again. “I feel like my costume idea was, although not that original, really well thought out, but it seems everyone else did an amazing job too. I was hoping I would win in the costume contest, or at least lose to you.” 

“You wouldn’t lose to me, your costume is amazing Anna, one could almost mistake you for a real pirate, if you weren’t so clean.” Elsa walked around to face Anna and grabbed the collar of her friend’s vest to straighten it. “If you don’t win, I’ll riot in your honor.” 

“Don’t you mean plunder, raid, pillage...” 

“Well, maybe I’ll just have to go full siren. Lure, sing, charm...drown.” 

“Elsa, you don’t need to drown anyone for me.” 

“I’d do anything for you.” Elsa winked as she did when they left the house earlier, leaving Anna speechless as she watched the slink away from her viewpoint. Once her silent stupor ended, Anna shook her head and went to find Kristoff to catch up.  

—

Despite the lively atmosphere, Anna couldn’t shake her nervousness. She knew she had to find the right moment to talk to Elsa, but the risk of rejection loomed large in her mind and the overall fear of losing her best friend. Anna eventually found herself at the refreshment table, where Elsa abruptly appeared beside her and grabbed two cups of some home-made punch, handing one to Anna.  

Anna swirled the contents around in the cup, unsure of what concoction of different liquors and juices she may taste inside.  

Elsa went to raise her cup in a toast when she saw the other woman’s apprehension. “Just do it, you look like you need to loosen up a bit.” 

Anna jested and stuck out her tongue, “Why don’t you make me?” 

Elsa’s look became serious as she walked around the small kitchen island, narrowing the space between them. Anna felt frozen, as if she were a deer in the headlights of an oncoming vehicle and just watched as Elsa wrapped her arm around her own in front. “What if we do it like this?”  

Anna felt the other woman grow close as their arms now snaked around the other’s, their drinks now at each other’s lips.  

“Here’s to a fun night,” Elsa whispered, raising her cup in a toast before hinting at Anna to open her mouth. Anna obeyed and let the drink pass between her lips, as she returned the favor. 

“To a fun night,” Anna echoed after the toast. ‘Maybe Elsa is right, I do need to loosen up.’  

She allowed her friend to fetch her one more drink to add to her liquid courage for the evening. As she took the final sip, Anna felt a surge of determination. She had to tell Elsa how she felt tonight, no matter what. She opened her mouth to speak but as the party buzzed with excitement, Kristoff waltzed onto a makeshift stage with a cheap microphone in hand. "Alright, everyone! It's time to announce the winners of the costume contest!" he called out, gathering the party’s attention. 

Anna sighed and then took her place beside Elsa who strolled closer to the stage. Anna removed her hat, casually holding it in her hands as they waited for the results. She glanced over at Elsa, who was adjusting the seashell crown in her hair, seemingly unbothered. She knew Elsa hadn’t thought much about winning though.  

"First, let’s start with the individual costume category," Kristoff said, scanning the crowd that had gathered around in front of him. "There were a lot of great looks tonight, but one stood out for its sheer creativity and detail. Give it up for… Raya and her incredible dragon costume!" 

Cheers erupted, and a dark haired woman stepped forward with a wide grin, raising her arms to show off the wings that unfurled behind her. The crowd clapped and cheered as she accepted her prize, a silly plastic crown and a gift card to a local café. Anna clapped along, although she was genuinely impressed, she still felt a sinking feeling in her chest. 

Elsa grabbed Anna's hat from her hands and placed it back on her head, “Her costume was great, but yours was better. We’ll find you some finer treasures elsewhere.” Anna couldn’t help but smile as the woman tidied up her outfit once again, caring for it with great import as Anna would herself. 

“And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for—the couples costume winner!" Kristoff continued. "This pair showed creativity, chemistry...” 

Anna looked over to Aurora on the other side of the room with Mulan, ready to pounce onto the stage. 

“And let’s be honest, they totally nailed it. And the winners are… Anna and Elsa, the pirate and the mermaid!" 

Anna’s eyes widened in shock. "Wait, what?" she blurted, looking at Elsa, who burst out laughing. The crowd clapped, and a few of their friends whistled, calling out their names. 

"Come on up, you two!" Kristoff urged, waving them forward. 

Anna felt her face flush as she awkwardly made her way toward the front with Elsa by her side, still grinning at Anna’s surprise.  

"This can’t be real," Anna muttered under her breath, but she couldn’t help laughing along with Elsa’s delight. 

Kristoff handed them their prize—another plastic crown for each of them, along with a small trophy shaped like a gold star. "Congrats, you two! You’re officially the best-dressed duo tonight!" 

Elsa accepted the crown and placed it on the rim of Anna’s hat with a chuckle. "Well, I guess you did nail it." 

“We.” Anna corrected. 

Elsa leaned in, her eyes twinkling. "We make a good team." 

As they posed for a few pictures with their crowns, Anna caught Elsa’s eye and was thrilled to see her looking back at her. 

—

As they mingled with more friends and enjoyed the party, Anna kept looking for an opportunity to talk to Elsa alone. Every time Anna felt the courage to bring up the conversation, a random person would interrupt, or the loud music would take over.  

Her chance finally came when Kristoff announced a game that required participants to act out famous scenes from movies. “All right, everyone,” the man called out. “We’re going to play a game called ‘Hollywood Highlights.’ I need some volunteers to act out different scenes for the audience to vote on. Who’s in?” 

Anna felt her heart skip a beat. This could be the perfect opportunity. She nudged Elsa. “Want to give it a try?” 

Elsa’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Sure, why not? After all, we are on a winning streak.” 

They stepped forward, joining a few other pairs who had volunteered. Kristoff handed them slips of paper with the scenes they would act out. Anna’s hands trembled slightly as she unfolded their slip and read the scene: the romantic boat scene from The Little Mermaid where the characters would share their first kiss, if not interrupted.  

Anna gulped, looking down at her clothes. Elsa grabbed the paper from her hand and read the scene for herself.  “Relax, pirates can be princes too.” She extended her hand and placed it on Anna’s, causing the woman’s heart to beat even faster. 

“All right, everyone,” Kristoff said. “You have a few minutes to prepare. Then we’ll see your performances, for those that need an additional fill in, I’ll take that spot. At the end, we’ll vote on who did the best performance!” He strolled over to Anna and Elsa whilst puffing up his chest. He pointed to himself with his thumb. “I’ll be the crab and some of the sea creatures. But don’t worry, I won’t steal the show. Maybe.” Elsa poked him in the stomach, causing the air in his chest to deflate and giggled.  

They found a quiet corner to rehearse. As they went over the scene, Anna couldn’t help but feel nervous and excited. She glanced at Elsa, who seemed completely at ease, and felt a pang of admiration. Elsa had always been the braver of the two, never afraid to speak her mind or speak in front of others. Her confidence could not be challenged, and Anna admired that about her. 

“Ready?” Elsa inquired, smiling warmly at Anna. 

Anna nodded with a shaky voice. “Yeah, ready.” 

When it was their turn to perform, Anna and Elsa stepped into the makeshift spotlight. The room fell silent, all eyes on them. Anna took a deep breath and began the scene, trying to focus on her small part and few lines, making jokes of Kristoff pretending to be Scuttle; being loud and annoying. Music began in the background as the girls circled each other as if they were spinning in the boat.  

As they reached the climactic moment where their characters were about to kiss, Anna’s nervousness reached its peak. She looked into Elsa’s eyes, searching for any sign of what she might be feeling. Elsa’s expression was calm and encouraging, her blue eyes reflecting the dim light of the room. 

Summoning all her courage, Anna decided to go for it. She gently took Elsa’s hand and leaned in, whispering, “I know you don’t have any speaking lines for this part, so you can just listen. And afterwards, you can just ignore this as if nothing ever happened, you could hate me, or whatever it is you need to do, but I need to tell you something... 

Elsa’s eyes began searching in Anna’s. She had an idea of what was to come but felt a blush rosy on her cheeks in return. 

Anna continued, “I think I’m in love with you.” 

Elsa’s eyes widened in surprise, but her expression quickly softened. She leaned forward to Anna’s side that was faced away from the audience, so she would not break character by talking and whispered back, “I’ve been waiting for you to say that. "She pulled her face back to the center, their noses so close together they were practically touching.  The audience began to lowly cheer, thinking their heartfelt moment was part of the act. 

Kristoff began to rock the imaginary boat in front of the women but to no avail. The two stood firmly looking into each other as Anna worked up the courage to press her lips against Elsa’s. 

And then, finally, they kissed. It was a soft, tentative kiss at first, as if testing the waters, but it quickly deepened into something more. The room erupted in applause and cheers, but to Anna, it was just background noise. All that mattered was the feeling of Elsa’s lips on hers, the way they fit together as if they had always been meant to. The kiss was warm, gentle, and full of all the unspoken words they had been too afraid to say.

When they finally pulled away, Anna felt a rush of emotions—relief, joy, excitement, and a sense of rightness.. They were both breathless, eyes locked, and in that moment, Anna knew that everything had changed. This wasn’t just part of an act; it was real, and it was everything she had ever hoped for.

The cheers and applause of their friends filled the room, grounding them back into reality and then the crowd clapped once more as they stepped away from the spotlight, Anna was unsure if the audience knew that the couple was not actually supposed to kiss during the song “Kiss the Girl”, but she could care less. ‘I like our version better.’ 

Kristoff raised an eyebrow, as he did know that the scene was supposed to end with the women falling instead of kissing based on their rehearsal, but Anna seemed to be drifting away, instead of interjecting, he let his friends be.  

Anna felt a weight lift off her shoulders. The fear of rejection that had been holding her back melted away, replaced by a sense of relief and happiness. 

Elsa pulled her aside, away from the crowd, and found a quiet area where they could talk privately. “Anna, I can’t believe you were so scared to tell me,” Elsa reassured, her voice filled with affection. “Honestly I was too… But I was only afraid of losing you. I love you Anna, I always have.” 

Anna laughed, feeling a mix of emotions. Her face still beat red. “I guess we were both being silly.” 

“Yeah,” Elsa agreed, taking Anna’s hand. “But I’m glad you finally told me.” She took Anna’s hands in her own and swung them back and forth between them.  

—

Anna and Elsa, along with Kristoff, ended up in second place because they deviated from the script, but their exceptional acting made up for it. The two women were all right with the outcome, as they had won in the costume contest earlier and now, by expressing themselves to each other. 

They spent the rest of the night dancing, laughing, and enjoying the party with their friends. As the event began to wind down, Anna and Elsa found themselves standing on the back patio of the house, the moonlight reflecting off the tops of the trees, and stars scattered across the night sky. They stood hand in hand, the cool breeze brushing against their skin.  

“This is perfect,” Elsa said softly, resting her head on Anna’s shoulder. The puffy sleeves of Anna's white blouse provided extra padding for Elsa’s cool forehead. 

“It really is,” Anna agreed, feeling a sense of contentment she had never felt before. 

They listened to the breeze for a while, enjoying the peaceful moment and each other’s company. 

[queenmothermp]

Lunar New Year Festival

Throughout the week, there was a noticeable buzz in the air of Central Park--not just of rumors and excitement, but of magic itself. One night, a large troupe of beautiful young women dressed in red and black hanfu gracefully flit throughout the large space carrying a variety of decorations and furnishings while a handful of others quickly and expertly cleaned the entire space of litter and rubbish. They carefully marked off the ice sculptures the Norse goddess had previously made; some were moved to other locations to be admired while others were highlighted in their own showcase. Snow sculptures crafted by residents were also carefully relocated to safe places with high visibility so they could continue to be enjoyed by everyone.

Another handful of ladies floated toward a small clearing, carrying several traditional instruments and began to play some lively tunes for the workers to enjoy as they continued to set up, some of the fairies even dancing and singing along as they placed decorations. These musicians would frequently be seen (and heard!) throughout the duration of the week-long festival as well, providing plenty of live entertainment for attendees--as well as accompaniment for professional dancers who performed a variety of dances. Several new sculptures were brought in--angled archways along the entrances to the park, decked with Spring couplets and Fu characters; several very large and expertly crafted dragons of exquisite detail--one dragon for each pantheon: Chinese, Norse, Japanese, Egyptian, Mayan, Greek, and Celtic dragons all--and despite translucent and frozen, the fierce beasts appeared as though they could come to life at any moment to breath a snow storm into existence.

Quickly, the area continued to be decked with banners and signs of crimson paper, adorning messages in a variety of languages, written in bold characters illuminated by magical golden ink shimmering phrases alternating between Happy New Year--2024--Year of the Dragon and variations thereof. Enchanted string lights of crimson and clear in the shapes of hanging lanterns joined in the decor; each lantern's glow also enchanted to provide warmth to the space so those in attendance could enjoy the outdoor festivities comfortably while the park was bathed in the light of a perpetual sunrise regardless of time of day.

Despite the ice and snow still present, one could easily find many blossoming peach, plum, and sakura trees as well as a variety of peony arrangements and even some strategically-placed potted kumquat and tangerine trees with small signs tied around their base for patrons to help themselves to their fruits as it seemed that no matter how many one picked, they always seemed to grow right back! And the fruits themselves were juicy and delicious!

The pleasant smells of flowers and citrus blended even more with the delicious aromas from the various food stalls that would be open from lunch until midnight. Festival goers could partake in an assortment of street foods from classic jiaozi dumplings, steamed bao (with a variety of fillings, with vegetarian options!) as well as special rou jia mo containing steamed catfish and vegetables for a surplus of good fortune in the new year, chuan’r and char siu, longevity noodles, candied hawthorn, popped lotus seeds, bakkwa, roasted peanuts and chestnuts as well as dried shrimp crisps for snacking, tangyuan, fried battered shrimp (for happiness and laughter!), niangao with special fillings ranging from lychee and longan (because how could one NOT have longan in the year of the dragon!?) to persimmon and kumquat, and much much more! And of course beverages were available at the Spilled Tea stall!

In the northern section of the park, a large tunnel had been erected--two large walls of ice with the "fu" character carved along the surface in intricate patterns. Along the top, however, rows upon rows of scarlet lanterns swayed for an enchanting and fantastical display; certainly a beautiful fixture--some may interpret it as magical and inspiring, some may see it as delightfully romantic. Nearby, another long wall stood beside a stall containing red many "fu" talismans; the young woman at this stall would gladly explain to those curious about how to make wishes and prayers on these cards and hang them on the wall to bring about good fortune for the year ahead. This same young woman happily provided guests with enamel pins in the shape of dragons from their respective pantheons. This nice and helpful young lady was also happy to provide attendees with pamphlets containing a map of the different vendors as well as schedules regarding specific performances and activities.

In the southern area of the park, many pillars of varying heights had been set up, wrapped with red and gold ribbons and adorned with more insignia plaques in preparation of the lion's dance to be performed each evening at sundown. In fact, at other times of the day, one might even catch a glimpse of the dancers wandering around in costume--2 lions!--wordlessly and playfully interacting with festival goers (especially children) and obliging selfie-takers. Many vendors could be found dotted throughout the park--a pleasant blend of traditional preparations heightened by magic. One vendor carved custom stone stencils for stamps of varying sizes--from personalized letter signatures to others the size of plates, demonstrating how to use them for those interested in watching that traditional printing style. Another vendor created malt candies in a variety of shapes and characters ranging from dragons to the "fu" character to moons and stars and so much more, much to the delight of children who enjoyed watching him create edible art.

Other activities included a variety of games located near the pavilion that had been erected in the center of the park--a beautiful and majestic structure of ice, trees, and flowers, adorned further with magnificent paper lanterns that swung gently with a light breeze. Of course, this was where the musicians and dancers performed at varying times of day regardless of the size of their audience. If one looked close enough at these lanterns, however, they would find small cards attached to them with riddles to solve--like a scavenger hunt leading them to another lantern hidden somewhere in the park--a fun little game thought of by the owner of Galaxy Games, wherein each lantern at the starter pavilion had a different set of clues and thus, a different adventure each time, ultimately leading to a variety of prizes--some were silly plushies and candies or vouchers for meals or services at different businesses throughout the island, some may find red envelopes containing money, others might find Felix Durant himself at the end who would provide them with a lucky charm granting them optimal good fortune in whatever they did for the next eight hours.

There was, of course, the classics--the arrow toss, archery contests, live portraits, constructing paper lanterns, using silk cords to make braided cords or other intricate designs, an elderly man telling stories with shadow puppets, and a few fellows wandered about performing fantastical tricks with Chinese yo-yos.

Another activity was the "Dragon Battle" on the west end of the park--which was really just a fun snowball fight for all ages, a battle that never seemed to formally end, surrounding a massive space filled with 'forts' made of ice and snow.

The classic dragon dance took place each night at 8:00 sharp and one could follow the illuminated beast's and its dancers' course throughout the entire park as it chased after the glowing golden orb.

Of course, this would all culminate on the evening of February 10th with a magnificent fireworks display brightening the sky with flurries of color and enchanted images including pixius, qilins, each creature in the zodiac (especially the dragon!), a variety of flowers including lotus blossoms, peonies, chrysanthemums, peach blossoms, and so much more all set to energetic music by live musicians.

[frozen-snowflakesandsunflowers]

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A post shared by Disney Parks (@disneyparks)

"BREAKING NEWS: Rapunzel's Lantern Festival, Anna and Elsa's Frozen Journey, Peter Pan's Never Land Adventure and Fairy Tinker Bell's Busy Buggies are coming to Fantasy Springs at @/TokyoDisneyResort official in 2024! Head over to the Disney Parks Blog for all-new attraction and dining details."

Here's the promotional and concept art and conceptfor it along with more details of the attraction:

"Set after the events of the Disney Animation film Frozen, Frozen Kingdom is full of happiness now that Elsa has embraced her powers to create ice and snow. In the Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey attraction, which follows the story of the film, guests board a boat and enjoy an epic and heartwarming tale of two sisters that discover only true love can thaw a frozen heart. The attraction also features the film’s well-known songs. Additionally, guests can dine at the Royal Banquet of Arendelle restaurant located in Arendelle Castle, which has both an indoor dining area and a covered outdoor dining area with views of the fjord cliffs and mountains in the distance. Guests can also stop by Oaken’s OK Foods, run by Oaken, the owner of the trading post and sauna that is featured in the film.

Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey – Water Ride – 6.5 minutes long: Guests can experience the world of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Frozen aboard a boat while enjoying an epic and heartwarming story of two sisters that discover only true love can thaw a frozen heart. The attraction also features the film’s well-known songs.

Royal Banquet of Arendelle – Counter Service: This counter-service restaurant is located inside Arendelle Castle. Guests can enjoy a meal in the three indoor dining areas reminiscent of scenes from the film or dine in a covered outdoor dining area with views of the fjord cliffs and mountains in the distance.

Oaken’s OK Foods – Counter Service: This delightful counter-service restaurant, run by Oaken, the owner of the trading post and sauna featured in the film, serves delicious food to hungry visitors to the Kingdom of Arendelle."

Some may not be interested in this stuff but this was just to update you all anyways. The amount of Frozen content we're getting is so good because it's like a build up to its 10th anniversary this November (US)/ December (UK) 🎉.

[merrock]

When racking their brains for a Gala theme this year, the council turned to the Benefactor… who remembered a suggestion from a Merrockite, and made the decision to change things up a little bit. This year, we will be loading up party buses (at 9AM) on July 27th and taking everyone who wishes to attend to a local Renaissance Festival grounds, which has been rented out for one day only! All of the food, fun & merriment will be available for Merrockites who wish to attend. You can spend all day enjoying the faire, with a dance in the evening, perfect for you to scratch your 'gala' itch. This event is for those 21+ only, but if you need child care for the evening, the Benefactor is happy to make arrangements. The buses will be loaded back up at 1AM to return home to Merrock. (More notes under cut.)

ic date: July 27, 2024

ooc date: July 22 - 29, 2024

dress code: come in costume!

invited: all over the age of 21

ADMIN NOTES: Hi, guys! I wanted to change up the gala this year, and do something a little different, and grabbed a suggestion given to us), so everyone will be bused out to a make believe location -- I am not choosing a real, actual Renaissance Faire, so let your imagination run wild, as long as it is something that you would find/do at a faire! The usual stuff will be there, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask. This is for fun, please remember -- it doesn't have to be 100% the same as something you might have attended in the past. If someone eats a chicken leg instead of a turkey leg, it's okay!

As far as outfits go, have fun with it -- the only thing that we ask is that you dress up somehow. Whether this be a fairy, a princess, a knight, a jester, whatever your heart desires! It does not need to be a fully involved costume -- you can wear a sun dress and a flower crown, or buy a pirate hat and boots. You don't have to change costumes for the dance in the evening, either, as it will remain renaissance themed, but you're more than welcome to if you wish! As usual, costumes should be posted to #merrockfashion.

Children and pets are not invited, but as stated, arrangements can be made if you need help! This is for adults only, 21+, and alcohol will be sold because of that. This event is in no way mandatory -- if for some reason, you have a character that you don't think would attend, that is A-okay! Traveling to Ren Faires might not be everyone's cup of tea, nor are galas. However, activity will still be expected during the time.

The event will run IC on Saturday, July 27th only, but OOC from Monday, July 22nd through Monday, July 29th to give everyone a whole week. Enjoy! xx

[magicmorningmeteora]

Best graduation dress

[hecrtled]

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧ THE HUMANS WERE throwing some kind of party ! and that meant that everyone invited needed to be wearing their best ! fawn wasn't a sewing-talent fairy , or even a tinker talent fairy ! but she knew how to make her own clothes — so a marigold dress it was ! fancy dresses weren't usually her thing ... but sometimes it was really nice to dress up a little !

floating in front of the mirror she and queenie had found , fawn twirled , and the petals of her dress swirled around her feet. the bright jingling of her laughter could be heard through the door.

o h , wouldn't rosetta just LOVE to see this !

[titanchaser]

𝐀𝐑𝐕𝐄𝐍'𝐒 𝐏𝐎𝐊𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐍, a very basic list because i am Not able to do a full rundown (yet) - always being updated

koraidon [not apex] (male. lv 70. fighting) - registered with sada as his trainer, but entrusted to arven by his mother

mabosstiff (male. lv 83. stellar) - given to arven as a birthday gift by his parents when he turned 5

garganacl (male. lv 72. steel)

greedent (male. lv 80. grass)

cloyster (male. lv 78. ice)

scovillain (female. lv 75. electric)

toedscruel (female. lv 75. ground)

gible (male. lv 1. dragon) - obtained at the lunar festival 2024

sprigatito (female. lv 10. grass) - a gift

iron thorns "sage" (male. lv 55. stellar) - zero city

iron boulder (male. lv 70. stellar) - from his father's AI

eevee (female. lv 10. ???) - from penny

slowpoke (male. lv 20. psychic) - met at a picnic, but may have been released by mel

goomy (male. lv 15. dragon) - from silva

cleffa (female. lv 5. fairy) - from yuri

minior (genderless. lv 20. ???) - from celeste

klink (genderless. lv 20. steel) - from n hamronia

glimmet [dual stems] (????, lv 1. ????) - from geeta

[abdouro]

Top Places to Spend Christmas: Ultimate Holiday Guide 2024-2025

Are you thinking about where to spend Christmas this year? There are so many amazing places around the world. You can find the perfect spot for your holiday vacation.

This guide will show you the best places to spend Christmas. You'll see European cities with their lights and markets. And also, tropical places for a warm holiday.

Each place has its own culture and traditions. You can choose from sandy beaches or snowy landscapes. There's something for everyone to make your Christmas special.

Book Your Ticket Here.

Best Top Places to Spend the Coming Christmas

The holiday season is full of magic, and the best places to spend Christmas have it all. You can find festive cheer, stunning views, and traditions that bring families together. Whether you're traveling with loved ones or on your own, there's a perfect spot for everyone.

Rovaniemi, Finland: The Home of Santa Claus

Rovaniemi is a winter wonderland on the Arctic Circle. It's where Santa Claus lives, and you can meet him. Enjoy reindeer sleigh rides and explore the snow-covered landscapes. It's a place filled with Christmas joy, perfect for those who love the holiday spirit.

Vienna’s Enchanting Christmas Markets

Vienna's Christmas markets are a sight to behold. They offer a warm and cultural experience. You can find unique ornaments and try local foods. The markets are set against Vienna's historic backdrop, making it a memorable holiday destination.

Bavarian Charm in Germany

Bavaria is magical during Christmas, with towns like Munich and Nuremberg. They're famous for their Christkindlmarkts. Here, you can buy handmade gifts and taste seasonal treats. It's a classic European Christmas experience that you won't forget.https://www.youtube.com/embed/IaxQcH5EQhg

Tropical Beaches and Relaxing Getaways

Imagine warm sand and the sound of waves. Tropical retreats are perfect for a holiday escape. Belize and Costa Rica are great for a break from winter.

Belize: Coral Reefs and Jungle Adventures

Belize is known for its stunning coast and diverse wildlife. Snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs are popular. Jungle adventures offer a chance to see exotic animals.

The warm weather and beautiful views make Belize a top choice for holidays.

Costa Rica's Dreamy Beaches and Cloud Forests

Costa Rica has beautiful beaches for sunbathing and surfing. It also has lush cloud forests and active volcanoes. Nature lovers will find it a paradise.

Holiday ideas in Costa Rica include eco-tourism and adventures. Christmas here is a unique experience. You can relax in paradise and enjoy the natural beauty.

Book Your Ticket Here

Winter Wonderland Adventures

Winter is the perfect time to explore captivating locations. These places are known for their stunning beauty and exciting outdoor activities. You can see breathtaking mountain ranges and enchanting lights in the night sky.

Many choices await those looking for top winter holiday spots. Experience the magic of these destinations as they transform into a stunning winter wonderland. They offer unforgettable adventures.

Exploring the Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are an ideal playground for winter enthusiasts. Here, tourists can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The landscape is vibrant, with towering mountains and glistening ice.

Visitors are captivated by its natural beauty. Ski resorts like Banff and Jasper offer world-class amenities. They ensure a remarkable getaway for families and adventurers alike.

Alpine Fun in the European Alps

The European Alps embody the quintessential winter wonderland experience. Visitors can enjoy premier ski slopes for all levels. Charming rustic huts serve steaming hot cocoa to warm up after skiing.

Regions like Zermatt and Chamonix offer fantastic skiing and picturesque vistas. These views seem to leap from a fairy tale.

Norwegian Northern Lights Experience

Northern Norway dazzles with opportunities to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. It's a one-of-a-kind destination for winter travelers. Adventurers can enjoy reindeer sledding and ice fishing while soaking up the enchanting atmosphere.

Spectacular landscapes glitter under the night sky. They provide both adventure and tranquility amidst the shimmering lights.

Exotic Lands and Cultures

Traveling to exotic lands can create unforgettable memories, especially during the holiday season. South Africa and Colombia are two standout destinations. They offer vibrant cultures and unique holiday experiences. Both places have rich traditions, flavorful cuisine, and a warm atmosphere that enchants travelers.

South African Summer Vibes

In December, South Africa becomes a sunny paradise. It's perfect for those looking to escape traditional winter festivities. Visitors can relax on stunning beaches, join outdoor activities, and explore diverse ecosystems.

Iconic spots like Cape Town offer breathtaking views. They blend urban and natural experiences. The city's vineyards and coastal landscapes add to the festive atmosphere.

Book Your Ticket Here.

Exploring Colombian Cities During the Holidays

Colombia comes alive with colorful celebrations during the holiday season. Cities like Cartagena show off their unique charm. They feature vibrant street festivals and cultural events.

Travelers can enjoy local culinary delights and see artistic displays. These reflect Colombia's rich heritage. The mix of food, art, and festivities makes Colombia a standout holiday destination.

Stunning Islands for Holiday Travel

As the festive season approaches, many travelers seek out stunning islands for unforgettable Christmas getaways. Tropical paradises with holiday spirit make these destinations special. The Maldives and Saint Lucia are two standout islands this time of year.

Maldives: A Tropical Paradise

The Maldives calls with its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts, a dreamy escape for holiday travelers. In December, temperatures hit a high of 30ºC, ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Visitors can enjoy fine dining, relax at serene spas, and explore vibrant coral reefs.

The stunning ocean views enhance this island's charm. It's a top choice for a tropical getaway during Christmas.

Saint Lucia's Breathtaking Beaches

Saint Lucia captivates with its lush landscapes and gorgeous beaches, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures. With temperatures around 30ºC, it welcomes Christmas getaways warmly. Visitors can hike the famous Pitons, enjoy local cuisine, or simply unwind on the soft sands.

The natural beauty and festive cheer create a unique holiday atmosphere. It's a favorite among those seeking a remarkable island retreat.

Aerial view of a tropical island with crystal clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, lush green palm trees, and vibrant coral reefs, under a bright blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds, inviting for a holiday escape.

Top Winter Holiday Spots

Looking for something special during the holidays? The world's top winter holiday spots have unique Christmas adventures. They offer stunning landscapes, exciting wildlife, and fun activities. These places are perfect for making holiday memories that last a lifetime.

Antarctica: A Unique Christmas Adventure

Antarctica is a top pick for a unique holiday experience. It's filled with icy beauty, penguin colonies, and untouched nature. Adventurers can swap traditional holidays for something truly special here.

Every moment in Antarctica is unforgettable. It's a chance to see nature in its purest form.

Magical Experience in Bora Bora

Bora Bora is another magical spot for escaping winter. It has overwater bungalows and clear turquoise lagoons. Visitors enjoy a luxurious break from holiday stress.

There are also water activities to keep your holiday exciting. Bora Bora's luxury and beauty make it a top spot for a memorable holiday.

Festive Travel Locations for Families

Looking for the perfect place for a family holiday? Lapland, Finland, is a top pick. It offers winter fun for all ages. Enjoy snowmobile rides and visits to Santa Claus Village. It's a place where childhood dreams come true.

Family-Friendly Resorts in Europe

Europe has many resorts perfect for family holidays. These places offer comfy stays and fun activities for kids. Here are some great options:DestinationPraise for Family ActivitiesSpecial AmenitiesDisney World, OrlandoWide range of entertainment optionsAccess to over 200 golf coursesFrankfurt Christmas Market, GermanyFun for all ages with handcrafted toysEngaging holiday performancesVail, ColoradoExciting winter activitiesKris Kringle Market and local treatsNew Orleans, LouisianaCelebration in the Oaks light festivalUnique cultural experiences

A snowy village square illuminated with colorful Christmas lights, surrounded by charming timber-framed houses, a large decorated tree in the center, families enjoying festive activities like ice skating, hot cocoa stands, and carolers singing nearby under a starry night sky.

Book Your Ticket Here.

Holiday Travel Ideas for Couples

Looking for holiday travel ideas for couples? Places that are romantic and intimate are perfect. These spots are great for memorable experiences, whether you want a quiet escape or a lively cultural trip.

Romantic Getaways in Venice

Venice is a top pick for couples wanting a magical trip. Its canals, with gondolas, are perfect for romantic boat rides at night. Enjoy candlelit dinners in cozy trattorias with delicious Italian food and wine.

Walking through Venice's streets, with its beautiful buildings, adds to the romance. It's a great place for couples to explore a new culture together. Venice is a dreamy setting for romantic getaways.

Intimate Cabin Rentals in the Alps

Think about renting a cabin in the Alps for a cozy holiday. These cabins offer privacy with stunning mountain views. They're perfect for couples wanting to reconnect.

Cozy evenings by the fireplace, with a glass of wine, are unforgettable. The snowy Alps create a magical backdrop for romantic winter nights. These ideas make your holiday warm and special.

Book Your Ticket Here.

[brookston]

Holidays 7.8

Holidays

Air Force and Air Defense Forces Day (Ukraine)

Arafat Day (Afghanistan, Djibouti, Egypt, Kuwait, Libya, UAE)

ASB & Health Day (UK)

Be a Kid Again Day

Carver Day (Missouri)

Child Honoring Day (Raffi Foundation)

Colorism Awareness Day

Constitution Day (Palau)

Corban Bairam Day (Sudan)

Disabled and Elderly Persons Day (Tajikistan)

Family Day (Ukraine)

Family, Love and Fidelity Day (Russia)

Gundam Day (Japan)

Hajj Day (Maldives)

Hamburg Massacre Anniversary Day

Historic Places Day (Canada)

International Body Painting Day

International Paramedics Day

Killer Joke Day

Kurban Bayramı Eve (Turkey)

Liberty Bell Crack Day

Math 2.0 Day

Mediterranean International Day

National Day of Righteous Outrage

National Denise Day

National Kathryn Day

National Love Your Skin Day

National Science Day (Brazil)

National Videogame Day

Old Crafts Day

Olive Branch Petition Day

Oneofusismissing Day

Park Day (French Republic)

Picking Up Women Day (Japan)

SCUD Day (Savor the Comic, Unplug the Drama)

Soapy Smith Wake (Alaska)

There Has Always Been Something Day (a.k.a. THABS Day)

Video Games Day

World Day of Allergies

World Skin Health Day

Youth Day (Neuchâtel, Switzerland)

Ziegfeld Follies Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Coca-Cola Day

Ice Cream Sundae Day

National Blueberry Day

National Freezer Pop Day

National Ice Cream Sundae Day

National Milk Chocolate with Almonds Day

National Raspberry Day

World Tea Party Day (SPANA or Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad)

Independence & Related Days

Empire of Pavlov (Declared; 2012) [unrecognized]

Kingdom of Beaver Island (Declared; 1850) [unrecognized]

New Year’s Days

Islamic New Year Holiday [Hijri New Year] (Brunei, Mauritania, Morocco, Somalia)

Sasi Sura (Javanese New Year; Suriname)

2nd Monday in July

Carnival Monday (Saint Vincent and Grenadines) [2nd Monday]

International Town Criers Day [2nd Monday]

Motivation Monday [Every Monday]

Peace Day (Antarctica)

Sempach Commemoration Day (Switzerland) [Monday after 4th]

Weekly Holidays beginning July 8 (2nd Week of July)

Nude Recreation Week (thru 7.14)

Festivals Beginning July 8, 2024

Cattle Industry Summer Conference (San Diego, California) [thru 7/10]

Istanbul Jazz Festival (Istanbul, Turkey) [thru 7.18]

Kaustinen Folk Music Festival (Kaustinen, Finland) [thru 7.14]

Knox County Fair (Knoxville, Illinois) [thru 8.10]

Malta Jazz Festival (Valletta, Malta) [thru 7.13]

Ottawa Bluesfest (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) [thru 7.14]

Southern Cotton Ginners Association Summer Meeting (Branson, Missouri) [thru 8.10]

Feast Days

Abda and Sabas (Christian; Saint)

Adrian II, pope (Christian; Saint)

Aquilla and Prisca (Christian; Saints)

Artemisia Gentileschi (Artology)

Auspicius of Trier (Christian; Saint)

Charlotte the Penguin (Muppetism)

Eid al Adha (Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Yemen)

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross (Humanism)

Elizabeth, Queen of Portugal (Christian; Saint & Widow)

Feast of Sunniva (Norse Goddess of the Sun)

Flower-Covered Pillars of Bread on Girls’ Heads Parade (Tomar, Portugal; Everyday Wicca)

Giorgio Pullicino (Artology)

Grimbald (Christian; Confessor)

Innocent III (Positivist; Saint)

Itchy (Muppetism)

Jean de La Fontaine (Writerism)

Justica II: Day of Dike (Pagan)

Käthe Kollwitz (Artology)

Kilian, Totnan, and Colman (Christian; Martyrs) [Kilian: Bavaria, Austria]

Make a Salve Day (Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Meatball Appreciation Day (Pastafarian)

Millennial Fairy Olympics, Day 3 (Shamanism)

None Caprotinae (Nones of the Wild Figs Festival in Honor of Juno; Ancient Rome)

Nummius (Christian; Confessor)

Pavel Korin (Artology)

Peter and Fevronia Day (Russian Orthodox)

Procopius of Scythopolis (Christian; Martyr)

Raymond of Toulouse (Christian; Saint)

Stanton Macdonald-Wright (Artology)

Sunniva and companions (Norse Solar Maidens)

Theobald of Marly (Christian; Saint)

Vitulatio (Ancient Roman Fruits of the Earth celebration)

Withburge of Norfolk (Christian; Saint)

Zorak Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Tomobiki (友引 Japan) [Good luck all day, except at noon.]

Premieres

Batman: Gotham Knight (WB Animated Film; 2008)

Beauty and the Beat, by The Go-Go’s (Album; 1981)

Being and Nothingness, by Jean-Paul Sartre (Philosophy Book; 1943)

Down and Dirty Duck (Animated Film; 1974)

8 Ball Bunny (WB LT Cartoon; 1950)

Fantastic Four (Film; 2005)

The Goblet of Fire, by J.K. Rowling (Novel; 2000) [Harry Potter #4]

Having a Wild Weekend (Film; 1965)

Horrible Bosses (Film; 2011)

How to Have an Accident in the Home (Disney Cartoon; 1956)

Ice Man’s Luck (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1929)

Inception (Film; 2010)

I, the Jury Mickey, by Spillane (Novel; 1947) [Mike Hammer #1]

Melrose Place (TV Series; 1992)

Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates (Film; 2016)

Milk For Baby (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1938)

Murderball (Film; 2005)

Nowhere Man, by The Beatles (4-Track EP; 1966)

On Death and Dying, by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross (Science Book; 1969)

Poop Goes the Weasel (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1955)

The Prisoner of Azkaban, by J.K. Rowling (Novel; 1999) [Harry Potter #3]

Radio Free Europe, by R.E.M. (Song; 1981)

The Sea Beast (Animated Film; 2022)

The Secret Life of Pets (Animated Film; 2016)

Shuffle Off to Buffalo (WB MM Cartoon; 1933)

Solaris, by Stanisław Lem (Novel; 1961)

Sword Art Online (Anime Series; 2012)

Thor: Love and Thunder (Film; 2022)

Wannabe, by the Spice Girls (Song; 1996)

You Better Run, by Pat Benatar (Song; 1980)

Today’s Name Days

Amalia, Edgar, Kilian (Austria)

Akvila, Eugen, Hadrijan, Priscila (Croatia)

Nora (Czech Republic)

Kjeld (Denmark)

Eleonoora, Ellinor, Leonoora, Loora, Loore, Noora, Nora (Estonia)

Turkka, Turo (Finland)

Edgar, Killian, Priscillia, Thibault (France)

Kilian, Amalia, Edgar (Germany)

Prokopios, Theofilos (Greece)

Ellák (Hungary)

Domenica (Italy)

Ada, Adele, Adeline, Antra (Latvia)

Arnoldas, Elžbieta, Elzė, Vaitautas, Valmantė, Virga, Virginija (Lithuania)

Sunniva, Synne, Synnøve (Norway)

Adrian, Adrianna, Chwalimir, Edgar, Elżbieta, Eugeniusz, Kilian, Prokop, Wirginia (Poland)

Astion, Epictet (România)

Ivan (Slovakia)

Adrián, Adriano, Priscila (Spain)

Kjell (Sweden)

Prokip, Prokop (Ukraine)

Aquila, Aquiline, Easton, Kilian (USA)

Thibaut (Universal)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 190 of 2024; 176 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 1 of week 28 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Tinne (Holly) [Day 2 of 28]

Chinese: Month 6 (Xin-Wei), Day 3 (Gui-You)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 2 Tammuz 5784

Islamic: 1 Muharram 1446

J Cal: 10 Red; Twosday [9 of 30]

Julian: 25 June 2024

Moon: 8%: Waxing Crescent

Positivist: 21 Charlemagne (7th Month) [Innocent III]

Runic Half Month: Feoh (Wealth) [Day 15 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 19 of 94)

Week: 2nd Week of July

Zodiac: Cancer (Day 18 of 31)

Calendar Changes

al-Muḥarram [ٱلْمُحَرَّم] (Islamic Calendar) [Month 1 of 12] (Forbidden Month)