Want to see up close and personal performances by the casts of some of Broadway’s biggest musical hits? Then, join us this summer at Kennedy Plaza on the Boardwalk for “Broadway on the Boardwalk.” One of Atlantic City’s most eagerly-anticipated summertime events, this series is hosted by Dena Blizzard of “One Funny Mother” fame and will feature fabulous songs and dazzling dance numbers from the hottest shows on Broadway.  

This summer’s lineup includes cuts from such smash hits as “Chicago,” “Oklahoma!,” and “Waitress” on July 8, “Rock of Ages” on July 15, along with “King Kong Alive on Broadway,” and “Beetlejuice the Musical, the Musical, the Musical” on July 22. July 29 will showcase “Hamiltunes” (a Hamilton singalong) and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.” August will include such standouts as “Wicked Night: The Untold True Story of the Witches of Oz,” “The Cher Show,” “Mean Girls,” “Ain’t Too Proud,” and “Come From Away.” All performances are free and will be ongoing every Monday from July 8 –  August 26, 2019.

Each June, Atlantic City experiences 48 Blocks, a joyful community celebration of art, culture, civic pride, creativity, local history, and a coming together in both body and spirit. For 48 hours every year, 48 city blocks are the locale of hundreds of artistic works and other creative projects. Join us on June 21-23 for this history-making, citywide event that showcases the art, artists, and communities of Atlantic City. The epic kickoff party and fundraiser will be held at Bourre on June 21 from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. and the official opening of 48 Blocks will begin on June 22 at 10:00 a.m.

In addition to some pretty impressive public art, attendees can enjoy live performances, hands-on art projects, delicious culinary offerings, community yoga, and so much more. 48 Blocks Atlantic City is a featured program of the Atlantic City Arts Foundation, in partnership with Stockton University, and is funded in part by the NJ State Council on the Arts, which is part of the National Endowment for the Arts.

Join us this month to celebrate two fabulously fun events for, and in honor of, Mom. First, head over to the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall on May 11 for the always-popular return of the Mother's Day Music Festival. This year’s concert will showcase the vocal stylings of Maze, featuring Frankie Beverly and KEM, along with a couple of the industry’s top Rhythm and Blues talents, Al B. Sure and Christopher Williams. Next, treat Mom to another special, but very different event at the Absecon Lighthouse’s Mother’s Day Climb on May 12.

Mothers climb for free at New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse, and leashed, four-legged canine pals are also welcome in the museum. One of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S., the Absecon has undergone a multi-million dollar restoration, but still features a 228-step climb to the top and the original Fresnel Lens that was first lit in 1857, along with a pretty spectacular view of the Atlantic City skyline! Remind Mom to stop by the gift shop, the educational museum, and the amazing replica of the Lightkeeper’s cottage.

Atlantic City is an ideal destination for families at any time of the year, but a spring season getaway is ideal. From spring break to the Easter holiday, there is an abundant array of fun and festive activities that will appeal to almost everyone, and three of our favorites are listed below. First, fall in love with the latest touring production of the “Sound of Music.” Coming to Caesars’ Circus Maximus Theater from April 16-21, this musical tale of the legendary Von Trapp family and its Tony-winning, Grammy-winning, and Academy Award-winning score will be a smash hit with the entire family.

Next, put on your Easter bonnets and head over to the historic village of Smithfield for the Easter Parade. Stroll the avenue dressed in your best, and you may win a prize for best outfit! Lastly, return to the Circus Maximus for the Atlantic City Ballet’s presentation of “Sleeping Beauty” on April 28. Tchaikovsky's magnificent score, Phyllis Papa’s dazzling choreography, and guest appearances by other fairy tale characters such as Little Red Riding Hood and Puss in Boots all combine to create a truly enchanted experience.

Atlantic City always offers up a plethora of fun and interesting events and activities for our guests, and this month is no exception. Check out a couple of our suggested activities here. First, make your reservation now for the first whale-watching cruises of the season on the Cape May Whale Watcher. These fun, eco-responsible cruises are about more than whales. Additional cruises also include dolphin-watching, along with a Sunset Dinner cruise and a Lighthouse Cruise.

Next, have a “hoppy” time at the Atlantic City Beer & Music Festival on March 29-30 at the AC Convention Center. This is the 14^th year of the festival, and there’ll be plenty of great brews and the brewmasters who make them in attendance. Area restaurants will provide culinary delights, and the main stage will feature The Used, SOJA, and The Wonder Years to keep the party vibe going. Lace up and get ready to run the Hops Trot 5K, or cheer on your favorite costumed contestants from the sidelines. And, don’t miss Silent Disco, hot wing-eating contests, and more of the festival’s quirky fun.

Named as one of the “25 Most Romantic Cities in America” by OpenTable, Atlantic City is chock full of events and attractions for those special date nights for you and your valentine, and a few of our favorites are listed here. First, check out the calendar for the Dante Hall Theater of the Arts, a beautifully restored and intimate performing arts center. Upcoming events include a Chinese New Year community celebration on February 16, with fun and family-friendly events such as dumpling making, bamboo brush artistry, and water calligraphy, along with a performance by the Penn Lions Dance Troupe.

Additional fun and romantic things to do include strolling hand-in-hand on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, or taking a ride or two at the Steel Pier’s amusement park – the top of the Ferris wheel is the perfect spot to steal a kiss, and maybe even pop the question. Next, climb all 228 steps for a spectacular view of the city from the top of the Absecon Lighthouse. Lastly, board any of the vessels of Atlantic City Cruises to dolphin-watch, or just cozy up together and feel the ocean breeze in your faces as you cruise peacefully along.

As Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaches, many of us will take time out to honor the Nobel Peace Prize winner’s life and legacy, and will also celebrate with various events around the city. Listed here are a few of our favorite ways to mark the holiday. First, don’t miss a visit to Atlantic City’s Civil Rights Garden. Located at the corner of Pacific Avenue and Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard, the garden is a calm oasis of Gingko trees, plants and flowers, all sharing space with winding pathways, public sculpture, and granite columns.

Next, explore the city with a self-guided walking tour. Make it extra easy by downloading the “GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities” app. You’ll find a detailed walking tour map, along with information and images for your desired attractions. Working offline, the app guides you from one destination to the next, so you can enjoy touring Atlantic City at your own pace. Lastly, for the iconic Atlantic City experience, try the Splash of Atlantic City Tour. You’ll get the down low on the Miss America pageant, boardwalk, and saltwater taffy, along with tidbits about events crucial to making Atlantic City what it is today.  

This December, Atlantic City is offering up an abundant array of live shows, and even a New Year’s Eve Disco Ball. With that thought in mind, we have listed a few suggestions here for your consideration. First, indulge yourself by honoring a beloved holiday tradition with the Atlantic City Ballet’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” at the Circus Maximus Theater on December 15. Also on December 15, “A Magical Cirque Christmas” will be performed at Harrah’s. This dazzling spectacle includes incredible circus acts, amazing magic acts, and Christmas carols complete this holiday event.

Next, come to the Tropicana Showroom on December 21 for “A Magical Holiday Spectacular,” and to the Superstar Theater on December 26 for “A Broadway Holiday.” On December 31, get ready to party like Travolta at the Superstar Theater’s “New Year’s Eve Disco Ball.” Dance the Hustle, the Bump, and the Funky Chicken to the groovy tunes of Tavares, Rose Royce, and Marth Wash. Lastly, don’t miss the breathtaking New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Boardwalk at Tropicana. Shown from the beachfront, the display features high aerials and grand illuminations by the designer, Fireworks by Grucci.

This month, Atlantic City offers a myriad of entertaining events from which to choose, and listed here are a few of our favorites. First, fans of ink and ink culture won’t want to miss the 15^th Annual Atlantic City Tattoo Expo on November 2-4. Some of the nation’s most gifted and renowned artists will be featured, along with a variety of exhibitors and loads of fun. Next, come out to support the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson on November 17 with a historical music event.

RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles will be performed at Ovation Hall in honor of the 50^th anniversary of the Fab Four’s iconic release, “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.” And, join the Atlantic City Ballet on November 24 as they kick off the holidays with a mix of classical and contemporary dance set to your favorite holiday music. “It’s a Shore Holiday” will feature live music, singers, and dancers, all showcased in a winter wonderland-esque celebration of the holiday spirit.

This month, Atlantic City offers a myriad of entertaining and exciting events for our guests, and some of our favorites are listed below.

October 12: Music fans will be in a mellow groove when chanteuse Michele Beckham performs her “Tribute to Nancy Wilson” at the Claridge Hotel. The concert is part of the Chicken Bone Beach Summer/Fall Series.

October 19: Don’t be shy – get up, clap along, and dance to the favorites of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, when Harrah’s presents “Menopause: the Musical.” What more can we say about a side-splitting musical lampoon centered around four women, a black lace bra, sex, night sweats, sex, and hot flashes, than that this will leave you rolling, and dancing, in the aisles.

October 28: All the horror, passion, and pain of Stoker’s classic vampire tale will be brought to the stage when the Atlantic City Ballet presents “Dracula” at the Circus Maximus Theater. One of the biggest hits in the company’s 34-year repertoire, this ballet combines stellar performances with exquisite sets and costumes, along with a compelling score – you’ll want to make this one of your new Halloween traditions!

This month, our guests have a variety of entertaining and interesting activities from which to choose, and two of our favorites are listed here. First, don’t miss the Atlantic City Seafood Festival at Bader Field on September 8-9. Local restaurants and Tastings of Jersey made wines and craft brewers will be on the menu at this family-friendly event. In addition, you’ll find cooking demos, wine seminars, a chowder cook-off, and crab cake-eating competition. Kids will have a blast in the sand-sculpting area, local art and artists will be on hand, and there will be plenty of live music to keep the party-rockin'.

Next, join the crowd at the Borgata for the Miss’d America Pageant on September 22. This wildly-popular lampoon of that other famous Atlantic City pageant has become a must-see annual entertainment, and always features many of the most gifted drag performers around. The amazing Miss’d America Dancers will also perform, along with special musical guest, Frankie Z. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Greater Atlantic City GLBT Alliance. For tickets and details, call (888) 228-4748.

This month, guests of the Showboat Atlantic City can get in on the fun of three fabulous events. First up is a celebration of National Lighthouse Day on August 7 at our own Absecon Lighthouse. This family-friendly event will feature a free Kid’s Climb and a Jazzy Wine Tasting for the adults. Leashed dogs are also welcome, so pack up lawn chairs for the family and come groove to the sounds of the Eddie Morgan Trio, sip, and hang out. Next, don’t miss the 16th Annual Thunder Over the Boardwalk on August 22.

2018’s air show will include an international flair, with the Canadian Snowbirds joining the U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds, U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and GEICO Skytypers as they soar proudly over the city’s beaches and boardwalk. Finally, fans of the great Zimmerman will want to head over to Ducktown for the 4th Annual Dylan Fest AC on August 25. The Dante Hall Theater and various other venues in the neighborhood will all be celebrating the music of Bob Dylan and his connections to South Jersey. Live tunes from the Dylan Tribute band The 5 Believers, Just Like the Women, and other performers will also be featured.

Plan for some exciting times this summer as the Boardwalk Summer Concert Series begins Friday, July 6 at Kennedy Plaza. Dance away the summer evenings, or bring a folding chair to just sit and groove to some epic tunes. The concerts are free, and an array of food and drink will be available to purchase, so switch over pronto to summertime mode and make your way over to the plaza. First, check out the delectable barbecue, face painting, and live musical performances at the All American BBQ Weekend on July 6–8.

July 13-15 will feature a three-day Caribbean Music Festival, and July 20-22 is a 70s and 80s retro extravaganza, with performances by Roller Girl and a Michael Jackson impersonator. Reggae Weekend is on the schedule for July 27-29, with live steel drum bands and acoustic reggae. The series will continue through September 16, with something for country fans, Rat-Packers, International music lovers, and a Mexican Fiesta weekend. For more information, call (888) 228-4748.

Join us June 22-24 for a unique community celebration of art, Atlantic City history, culture, civic pride, togetherness, and creativity. 48 blocks last for 48 hours and encompass the City’s 48 blocks with more than 100 art and creative projects. Divided into six wards with a hub in each, this city-wide arts enterprise will focus on art, artists, and the communities of Atlantic City. Featured events will include live performances, community yoga, murals, dining experiences, hands-on-art projects, and much more!

A kickoff party and fundraiser on June 22 will feature the acoustic guitar and vocal stylings of local musicians Ken Shiles and Ci Bon, and jazz vocalist Ella Ghant will perform in concert on June 23. While some of these artistic endeavors will be permanent, such as the murals, others include ballet and puppet show performances, along with a variety of musicians and poets. One of the highlights of last year’s event was poet Belinda Manning’s innovative and daring “Poets on a Jitney,” which used AC’s iconic minibus for jitney jaunts hauling numerous poets to different poetry performance locations. For more information, click here.

Looking for something different to do on Saturday night? Looking for a few laughs? Then, come to the Showboat for a live comedy show every Saturday night at 9:00 p.m. Presented by ACJOKES.com, the Showboat will feature a rotating lineup of some of the funniest and cutting-edge comics on the East Coast. In addition, we’ll feature some regulars such as Ray Vazquez, who was the first place winner in the Gotham Comedy Club Contest, Zach Pickert, Kate Nichols, Mike Merk, Clipperman, and Matt Bridgestone, who was the writer for the Justin Beiber Roast.

The weekly show will be held on the main floor located just behind the 12 Bar, and great eats and libations will be available. Be sure to stick around after main act, because, hey, it’s Saturday night, and our DJ will keep the party rockin' long after the show. All attendees must be 21 and older. Any questions regarding the lineup and/or upcoming shows? Email: mattbridgestone@hotmail.com. For tickets, call (609) 594-2992, text (908) 670-0012, or click here.

This month, the focus is on two fun and fabulous Atlantic City events.  First, mark your calendar now for April 14 to attend Shakespeare’s classic “Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the Circus Maximus Theater. Performed by the Atlantic City Ballet, the Bard’s beloved comedy follows mischievous fairies and bewitched mortals during a magical night that leads to romantic confusion, hijinks, and hilarity. For details and tickets, call (609) 348-7201/7202, or click here.

Next, don’t miss the latest production from the Mahoney Brothers, “The Beatles and Beyond” on April 28. Renditions of popular recordings by the Fab Four both throughout their career as a band and during each of their solo years will take Baby Boomers back in time, and thrill younger generations as they discover the musical magic that was “The Beatles.” Additionally, the production’s instrumentation, staging, video, and costumes from the 1970s all combine make this a “Beatles” concert that will make special memories for fans of all ages. For tickets, call (609) 344-6000, or click here.

Craft brews, a fabulous musical lineup, and the third annual Hops Trot will be the stars of the show at the New Jersey Craft Beer and Atlantic City Beer Festival. From the kickoff party on March 22, to the main event on March 24, this event promises to be one epic party. Around 200 breweries will be represented at the AC Convention Center, pouring an assortment of hundreds of beers for sampling, including those rare “limited release” beers and ales. This is also a great opportunity to learn more about the brew masters themselves, as well as their crafty creations. Musical guests will include The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, The Descendents, and Pepper.

If you’re feeling fit, join in the 3^rd Annual Hops Trot 5K, aka “a 5K with flavor.” You’ll race around Atlantic City, stopping at a variety of designated watering holes for brew tastings and return to the Convention Center just in time for the festival. Costumes are strongly encouraged and the entry fee also covers your festival ticket and a one-of-a-kind Hops Trot Pint Glass. For details and tickets, call (609) 939-2621 or click here.

This February, honor Black History Month with a visit to the African American Heritage Museum in Atlantic City. You’ll find more than 11,000 pieces displayed on a rotating basis, and this is the only African American Heritage Museum in the state that documents the African American experience of the 20th Century. Additionally, the Museum maintains a collection of Atlantic County soldiers’ memorabilia at the All Wars Memorial Building.

This collection of mementos is representative of soldiers who fought in World War I up to those who are currently serving in the military. The idea for the museum came from its founder, Ralph E. Hunter, Sr., who began collecting cultural items during his travels. After years of collecting, his friends began referring to Hunter’s apartment as “the museum,” and the notion took root. The idea became reality in 2002, and the collection has continued to grow. The museum is currently located at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center. For more information, call (609) 350-6662.

The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge sits on 47,000 acres of salt marsh, and is home to hundreds of species of marine, plant, and animal wildlife. The winter season is one of the best times to visit the refuge, as thousands of black ducks and Atlantic brants make this their home during the cold season. Visitors can also spot short-eared owls, horned grebes, red-breasted mergansers, buffleheads, and the magnificent bald eagle also at this time of year, along with winter songbirds.

Additionally, piping plovers usually nest on sandy beaches, but are now in danger from development on the barrier islands. This has created a loss of habitat for the plover, which is now officially listed as a “threatened” species. The plovers currently nest on the Holgate and Little Beach Island sections of the refuge. If you’re interested in seeing these fascinating creatures, the roads and trails can be hiked or driven, but one of the best ways to see the refuge is via a tram tour. The tours are led by naturalists, and take place every Saturday. For reservations, call (609) 652-1665.

Boardwalk Hall will be the site of the 4^th Annual Deck the Halls - Festival of Trees. Local businesses, arena partners, and individuals are invited to sponsor a holiday tree for display. These custom-decorated trees can be viewed free of charge during lobby hours until Tuesday, January 2^nd, 2018. Proceeds will go to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) to support abused and neglected children. To date, this annual fundraiser has generated over $26,000 for community organizations, and $20,000 total for CASA to recruit and train volunteers for children in the foster care system of Cape May and Atlantic counties.

These citizen volunteers act as advocates for children, giving them a voice in the Family Court. Children with a CASA volunteer are less likely to remain in long-term foster care, and twice as likely to be adopted. Their educational achievement is better, and many young people, particularly, those of color, are more likely to have a plan for finding a permanent home. Nearly 400 of the region’s foster children are still waiting for a volunteer. For more information, call (888) 228-4748 or click here. To become a sponsor, email Erin Bilton at erin_bilton@comcastspectacor.com.To donate directly to CASA, ">click here.

Based in Brigantine, New Jersey, the Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) respond to calls when injured marine animals wash ashore on the state’s beaches. Over the years, they have come to the aid of over 4,000 seals, dolphins, whales, and sea turtles stranded on the shore. Using a specialized transport vehicle, they have rescued and transported 39 seals and 20 dolphins in 2017 alone – their most recent rescue, a grey seal in August. 

The center also provides events and programs to educate the public on how to save and preserve marine wildlife. As a non-profit organization, they depend on donations to keep going, and are currently raising funds for a new specialized transport vehicle. On "Giving Tuesday" this November 28^th, the center is hosting Wheels for Seals, which they hope will provide the funds needed to purchase their new transport vehicle. To make a donation, or "adopt a seal" for only $25, call the center at (609) 266-0538 or click here.

An Atlantic City landmark for over 150 years, the Absecon Lighthouse stands as one of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S., and is renowned for its stunning views and rich history. This month, the Absecon Lighthouse is offering its visitors the opportunity to participate in three fabulously fun events. On October 19, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., the Lighthouse will benefit from “Luscious Libations: Farm to Cocktail” at the Chart House Golden Nugget. The Hors d’oeuvres and libations will be accompanied by live music and a silent auction, along with a 6:47 p.m. toast at the lighting of the Absecon. For tickets, call (609) 449-1360, or click here.

Saturday, October 21 and Sunday, October 22 is the annual “Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey. Hosted by the Absecon and other lighthouses in the state, the challenge offers visitors the opportunity to visit each lighthouse as they tour the state. All funds raised by the challenge go toward preservation efforts for these iconic landmarks.  On Saturday, October 28, the Haunted Lighthouse Tours will continue at 5:00, 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 p.m. Experience for yourself the supernatural occurrences that inspired a visit from the SyFy Channel’s Ghost Hunters. For details, click here.

On September 9-10, our famous boardwalk will be the site of the 6^th Annual Atlantic City Seafood Festival. Located at Bader Field for the past five years, the decision was made to move the 2017 festival to the large area beside the former Revel Hotel and next door to the Showboat. Mere steps away from the beach and the boardwalk, the new outdoor location is easily accessible on foot for all guests staying at any of the boardwalk-located hotels and casinos. There will be lots of food, fun, and family-friendly activities, including a pet costume contest that benefits the Humane Society of Atlantic County, and a Chowder Cook-Off.

Attendees can expect the festival to live up to its reputation as one of the city’s finest culinary experiences, with a focus on creations from a hand-picked group of Atlantic City’s avant-garde restaurateurs and chefs. The “Jersey-made” theme will include wines from Southwind, Villary, and Unionville vineyards, and Bolero Snort, Cypress, Tuckahoe, and other breweries will tap a keg or two. Live music by the B-Street Band on Saturday, 9/9, and Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime on Sunday, 9/10, will keep the party rockin’ and the Community Food Bank of New Jersey will be the beneficiary of part of the proceeds. For tickets, call (609) 385-0716, or click here.

Since its inception in 2003, Thunder Over the Boardwalk has been an exciting and widely-anticipated annual air show. Also known as the Atlantic City Air Show, the event is held every summer over the Atlantic City boardwalk, and has become the benchmark for beachfront air shows, as well as Atlantic City’s signature summer event. August 23^rd will be the air show’s 15^th anniversary, featuring flybys and demonstrations from lows of only 50 feet above the water, to heights of 15,000 feet in front of the city’s skyline.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will return for 2017’s show. This USAF air demonstration squadron is based at Nellis AFB in Nevada. Their precision and accuracy are legendary during their stunning aerial demonstrations using the F-16C Fighting Falcon, along with the F-16D twin seat trainers. The 2017 show will also feature a U.S. Navy F18 Super Hornet, the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, Jim Beasley Jr.’s P51D Mustang demonstration, and the GEICO Skytypers.

This Independence Day, the air will be filled with the smell of hot dogs and hamburgers sizzling on grills, blaring horns and crashing cymbals will accompany bands marching to the sounds of Sousa, and a dazzling array of fireworks will illuminate night skies nationwide as we come together to celebrate our most American holiday. Guests of the Showboat are cordially invited to join us for the area’s holiday events.

In Atlantic City, visitors can watch not one, but two firework shows. At 9:00 p.m., the Borgata in the Marina District will light up the night skies, and there will be another display on the boardwalk at the Tropicana at 10:00 p.m. Before the shows, take a short jaunt to nearby Historic Smithville and Village Greene in Absecon for the largest 4^th of July parade in the state. The parade begins at 9:00 a.m. and usually draws around 10,000 spectators. The kids will love the carousel, the paddle boats, and train rides, and the entire family will enjoy the shoppes and stops in the historic setting.

This year, forget the ties, the after-shave, and the campy boxers, and give Dad something he'll remember for years to come. Indulge his playful side, his love of adventure, and his competitive spirit with the exciting gift of indoor skydiving. Dad can experience the sensation of outdoor skydiving without the risks, as the thrill of free falling becomes a safe reality. A vertical wind tunnel simulates genuine conditions as skydivers “fly” on a smooth column of air; landing securely and easily.

Located about an hour from the Showboat Atlantic City, iFly Mount Laurel is one of many places now offering indoor skydiving. Termed “bodyflight,” it is rapidly gaining momentum with traditional skydivers and other sports enthusiasts around the world. Although it packs a wallop, it’s safe enough for the youngsters, and something the entire family can enjoy together. We suggest booking a family getaway, and visiting other famous Atlantic City attractions. For information on reservations and special getaway packages, call (877) 387-7185, or visit: www.showboathotelac.com/hotel-specials.

Every May, the culture and community of craft brews and brewers are celebrated with American Craft Beer Week. Celebrated this year from May 15 through May 21, this has become the largest national effort with a focus American craft beer and its booming market. With the ever-growing popularity of craft beer, it’s no wonder that more indie brewers are jumping into the arena. The result is a veritable of explosion of breweries across the country, and the inevitable ranking of their various brews by such notables as Food and Wine and TimeOut Magazine.

Named as one of TimeOut Magazine’s “Best New Craft Beers to Drink in 2017,” the Exit 2 Rosemary Double IPA is made at New Jersey’s Flying Fish Brewing Company, and is known as one of several of the “Exit” series. Each of these brews honors a New Jersey Turnpike exit, in a variety of styles and directions. Additionally, some of the hops and malts used in Exit 2 are also from New Jersey. Why not book a craft brew “staycation” with us today? For reservations, call us at (877) 387-7185.

Georges Bizet’s classic and tragic tale will be performed by the Atlantic City Ballet at Caesars AC on Sunday, April 23^rd at 4:00 p.m. Still as potent and moving today as it was in Bizet’s time, this is the story of an enchanting, sultry seductress and the two men whose love for her immerses the trio in a passionate but deadly triangle.

The Ballet’s Artistic Director Phyllis Papa’s spectacular choreography and creative staging, along with David Esler’s backdrop design, beautifully recreate Bizet’s imaginative and colorful characterizations of toreadors, gypsies, and smugglers. The overall performance is a skillful and evocative complement to the composer’s eloquent score, and it all adds up to a powerful theatrical experience.  

Tickets are $45 for adults and $20 for children and students who are 18 and younger. Discounts are available to senior citizens and groups of 10 or more. For more information, call (609) 348-7201.

Join us at the Algonquin Arts Theatre from March 30^th to April 2^nd for the 15^th annual Garden State Film Festival. The festival will feature hundreds of films from around the world, and will include panel discussions and appearances by celebrities and honorees.

All film genres were accepted for the festival, including documentaries, children’s films, shorts, videos, and feature films. The “Home Grown” category features movies of which 75 percent or more have been filmed in New Jersey, and submissions were also accepted for film scoring and music. The GSFF is the only indie film festival that recognizes composers, artists and producers of scores, soundtracks and theme songs solely on their own merit.

A panel of professional judges reviews all submissions and chooses the winning entries in the following categories: the best Feature Length, Short, Documentary, Animation, Music Video, PSA, Commercial, and the best trailers. Additionally, an Audience Choice Award is selected using CineBallot, a new smart-phone app both designed and launched at GSFF. GSFF is a 501-c-3, non-profit organization. For film listings and show times, visit: www.gsff.org.

The Lazy Eye Distillery is proud to announce their second annual Chocolate and Spirits Tasting! On Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12, you can experience the smooth and subtle flavors of three different barrel-aged vodkas, along with assorted chocolate pairings.

The family-owned-and-operated distillery is the first to make vodka in New Jersey since Prohibition, and believes in making their spirits using the old-style virtues of pride, patience, hard work, and tradition. The result is hand-crafted, award-winning vodkas that are made from carefully-selected grapes, and are small-batch distilled in pot stills.

The distillery produces only gluten-free spirits and has three primary products: Lazy Eye Vodka, Lazy Eye Rakii, an homage to the “Greek spirit” of our parents and grandparents, and the Lazy Eye Special, our special cocktail made from Lazy Eye Vodka. Lazy Eye Vodka won a gold medal at the New York International Spirits Competition, and the distillery has been named New Jersey Distillery of the year.

The Chocolate and Spirits Tasting’s hours are 12:00 – 5:00 p.m., but our tasting room is open for tours and tastings year-round every Saturday from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. For more information, email us at: info@lazyeyedistillery.com.

January is a great month to learn more about the lives and contributions made by African Americans to the development and growth of Atlantic City. Inspired by the book, “The Northside,” the Heritage Tour is a tribute to those African Americans who were, and are, an integral part of the City’s culture and history.

This 90-minute tour will immerse you in the places and events of the past, and will include stops at 26 attractions. You’ll visit Chicken Bone Beach, the Civil Rights Garden, Pop Lloyd Stadium, the African American Museum, and many other points of interest. All tours are conducted by professional guides, and participants will also receive salt-water taffy and area meal coupons.

This month only, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the Atlantic City Heritage Tour will be offered for half-price. Beginning February 1st, tours will be available at full price through June 24. For more information, call (609) 593-6349, or visit www.a1toursonline.com/.