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Top Easter events and brunches around Chicago

Top Easter events and brunches around Chicago

Axios17-04-2025
Whether you'll be dining with family and friends, hunting for Easter eggs, snapping photos with the Easter Bunny, or sipping a cocktail, here's your guide to local Easter events worth checking out this weekend.
🥐 Brunch
Ambar in River North: Unlimited Balkan-inspired brunch at one of River North's newest restaurants.
🎥 Watch Monica and I taste test the food.
Avec River North: Mediterranean prix-fixe brunch buffet with housemade pastries and wine pairings.
10am–2pm.
$50 for adults/$25 for kids.
Bar Pendry in the Loop: An Easter themed-boozy tea brunch with sweet and savory small bites.
11am-3pm.
$65.
Big Star West Town: Snap a pic with the Easter bunny and decorate cookies while enjoying breakfast tacos and other brunch specials.
10am-2pm.
$10–$20.
The Graceful Ordinary in St. Charles: Experience a family-style Easter brunch featuring classics like steak and eggs and French toast.
10am–3pm.
$65 per adult and $25 for kids.
The Greggory in South Barrington: Try Mediterranean-inspired brunch specials.
11am-5pm.
Reserve a table.
Hawksmoor in River North: Indulge in a classic British Sunday roast with dry-aged beef, Yorkshire puddings and all the trimmings.
Noon–5pm.
$42.
Heritage in Ukrainian Village: Stop by for brunch or dinner and take advantage of their Easter prix-fixe menu or a la carte.
Noon-6pm.
$85 per person.
Il Mio in Clarendon Hills: Special brunch eats from Italian french toast to eggplant parmesan.
11am–3pm.
Reserve a table.
Lowcountry in Chinatown: A lunchtime special with snow crab clusters, shrimp, corn, potatoes and cornbread.
Noon–3pm.
$36.
Somerset in Gold Coast: Capture selfies with the Easter Bunny after brunch buffet and sweets at Viceroy Hotel restaurant.
11am-3pm.
$89 for adults and $25 for kids.
🥰 For the fam
Whirlyball: Enjoy a buffet style breakfast with the Easter Bunny, followed by games.
Saturday, 10am-12:30pm.
$45 for adults and $40 for kids.
South Loop Easter Egg Hunt: Gather the kids for an outdoor afternoon Easter egg hunt, sports and games, art and photo-ops.
Saturday from noon-2pm at Chicago Women's Park and Gardens.
Tickets start at $10.
Easter Egg Hunt at Altgeld Park: Enjoy free food, a bouncy house, Easter bunny photos and egg hunt.
Saturday, 3:30pm, and hunt starts at 4pm
Free.
🥂 Sunday Funday
Easter Bounce Brunch: Enjoy the skyline, music and small bites.
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Turkey Travel Packages
Turkey Travel Packages

Time Business News

time12 hours ago

  • Time Business News

Turkey Travel Packages

Turkey, a country where East meets West, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're looking to explore ancient ruins, bask in Mediterranean sunshine, or embark on an adventurous journey through scenic terrains, Turkey has something for everyone. With Turkey Travel 24, your trusted travel partner, planning the perfect getaway is just a click away. In this post, we'll guide you through the top travel packages, destinations, and everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Turkey. From historical landmarks to stunning beaches, we'll help you create a journey that suits your preferences and budget. When it comes to planning a vacation, the choice of travel partner matters. Turkey Travel 24 stands out as a reliable and trusted name in the travel industry, offering a variety of Turkey travel packages tailored to your needs. Here's why you should consider Turkey Travel 24 for your next trip: Expert Planning : We take care of all the details, from accommodation to transport, ensuring that your vacation is stress-free. : We take care of all the details, from accommodation to transport, ensuring that your vacation is stress-free. Customizable Packages : Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family adventure, we offer tailor-made travel options. : Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family adventure, we offer tailor-made travel options. Local Expertise : Our team of travel experts provides deep insights into Turkey's culture, history, and must-visit attractions. : Our team of travel experts provides deep insights into Turkey's culture, history, and must-visit attractions. Affordable Options: We offer competitive prices for both budget-conscious and luxury travelers. Turkey is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the must-visit destinations that should be included in your Turkey travel package: Istanbul, once the capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, is a city that perfectly blends the old and the new. From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the grand Topkapi Palace, Istanbul offers a deep dive into history, culture, and architecture. Don't forget to visit the famous Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, where you can shop for traditional Turkish goods, spices, and jewelry. Cappadocia is one of the most unique landscapes in the world. Its otherworldly 'fairy chimneys' and rock formations make it a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Turkey. A hot air balloon ride at sunrise over the valleys of Cappadocia offers a breathtaking view that should not be missed. Pamukkale, known as the 'Cotton Castle,' is famous for its white travertine terraces formed by hot spring water. The mineral-rich waters have been a source of healing for centuries, and visitors can take a dip in these natural pools while soaking in the spectacular view. Ephesus is one of Turkey's best-preserved ancient cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its Roman ruins, including the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), Ephesus offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire. At Turkey Travel 24, we understand that every traveler has different preferences. That's why we offer a wide variety of travel packages to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a beach lover, we have something for you. For those who prefer a hassle-free vacation, all-inclusive packages are the way to go. These packages typically include accommodation, meals, guided tours, and transportation. Everything is taken care of, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about the details. For travelers who want to craft their own itinerary, Turkey Travel 24 offers customizable tours. You can choose your destinations, activities, and level of accommodation, making your trip as unique as you are. Turkey is an adventure lover's paradise, offering a variety of activities such as hiking in the Lycian Way, paragliding over Ölüdeniz, and exploring the underground cities of Cappadocia. If you're looking for something more thrilling, these adventure travel packages are perfect for you. Traveling with family? Turkey offers plenty of family-friendly attractions, from the beaches of Antalya to the kid-friendly sites in Istanbul. We offer packages that cater to families of all sizes, ensuring everyone has a memorable time. Booking your trip with Turkey Travel 24 is easy. Simply visit our website and choose from our range of packages. If you're unsure about which package to choose, our team of travel experts is always available to help you make the best choice based on your preferences and budget. We offer secure online payment options, and our cancellation policy is flexible, allowing you to change your travel plans if necessary. It's always good to check the terms before booking to ensure you're clear about any changes or cancellations. Most Turkey travel packages include accommodation, guided tours, transportation, and sometimes meals. Some all-inclusive packages cover everything, including activities, while customizable tours let you choose what suits your interests. Most tours last between 7 to 10 days, allowing you to visit the major attractions. However, shorter and longer tours are also available based on your schedule. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and tourist crowds are smaller. Yes, most travelers will need a visa to visit Turkey. However, many nationalities can apply for an e-Visa online, which is quick and easy. Yes, Turkey Travel 24 offers fully customizable packages. You can select your destinations, activities, and accommodation type to create a unique experience tailored to your preferences. Turkey is a land of wonders, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Turkey has something to offer every traveler. With Turkey Travel 24, planning your dream vacation is easier than ever. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey to Turkey today and create memories that will last a lifetime.. TIME BUSINESS NEWS

Trump White House ballroom: A look back at Grand Ballroom Trump built at Mar-a-Lago
Trump White House ballroom: A look back at Grand Ballroom Trump built at Mar-a-Lago

USA Today

timea day ago

  • USA Today

Trump White House ballroom: A look back at Grand Ballroom Trump built at Mar-a-Lago

Twenty years after the opening of the Grand Ballroom at President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, Trump announced another new ballroom on a grand scale — this time at the White House. The Trump Administration on July 31 said construction on a $200 million, roughly 90,000-square-foot White House State Ballroom will begin in September. The project will be paid for by donors including Trump and have a seating capacity of 650 people, the White House said. The U.S. Secret Service will oversee security features of the new structure, officials said. "President Trump is a builder at heart and has an extraordinary eye for detail," Chief of Staff Susie Wiles said in a White House news release. "The President and the Trump White House are fully committed to working with the appropriate organizations to preserving the special history of the White House while building a beautiful ballroom that can be enjoyed by future Administrations and generations of Americans to come." The style and architecture of the exterior of the new ballroom will be "almost identical" to the rest of the White House, Trump officials said. The work will include major renovations to the White House's East Wing, where presidents have historically held large receptions. Trump has frequently complained the White House lacks a proper large-scale ballroom for entertaining. While the outside of the new ballroom at what is known as the people's house will feature the same iconic styling as the rest of the property, renderings released by the White House show that the interior style is undoubtedly reminiscent of the Versailles-inspired Donald J. Trump Grand Ballroom that was completed at Mar-a-Lago in late 2004 and had its grand opening in 2005. Here's what to know about Mar-a-Lago's large ballroom and its history. When was Mar-a-Lago completed, and what are some of its features? Construction on Mar-a-Lago began in 1922. The house was designed for cereal heiress Marjorie Meriweather Post in the Spanish-Moorish style by architect Joseph Urban, who also designed the nearby Bath & Tennis Club and the Paramount Theatre farther north in Palm Beach. When completed in 1927 on its 17-acres, the crescent-shaped main house had 115 rooms, with 58 bedrooms and 25 bathrooms. Urban drew on classical designs, looking to the Thousand Winged Ceiling at the Accademia in Venice as inspiration for the 34-foot ceiling in Mar-a-Lago's living room, and the Palazzo Chigi in Rome as inspiration for the hand-painted ceiling in the dining room, according to a 2002 Daily News report about Mar-a-Lago's history. After a major redecoration in 1956, Post added Mar-a-Lago's White and Gold Ballroom as a venue to host to her popular charity events and the square dances for which she was so well-known, according to the 2002 profile. She also added three bomb shelters during the Korean War. What has Trump added to Mar-a-Lago? Trump paid a reported $10 million for Mar-a-Lago in 1985: $5 million for the property itself, an additional $3 million for the furnishings, plus $2 million for the beachfront stretch that years prior was sold to a neighbor. When Mar-a-Lago's club opened in 1995, it had amenities such as a spa, tennis courts and nine-hole golf course. In 2000, construction began on the $3 million beachfront project at Mar-a-Lago that added a new swimming pool, a pair of two-story buildings with cabanas and a snack bar, a spa, fountains, and ramps and stairs down to the beach, the Daily News reported in 2002. In 2004, Trump received approval from Palm Beach to tear down an aging slat house on Mar-a-Lago's property to build a kitchen to help serve the estate's new ballroom, which opened in 2005. Over the years, some of Trump's plans for Mar-a-Lago have been shot down by state and town officials, including a proposal for a 120-slip marina and, before opening the club, a concept that would have subdivided Mar-a-Lago's acreage to build estate homes. What about Mar-a-Lago's Grand Ballroom? The Daily News first reported in 1996 that the National Trust for Historic Preservation was reviewing plans for a new ballroom or expansion of the dance pavilion at Mar-a-Lago. Because Mar-a-Lago is a national landmark, all major changes must be reviewed and approved by the trust. "We're just looking art different concepts, different ideas. It's very preliminary," Trump told the Daily News in 1996. "We need a ballroom because of the success of Mar-a-Lago. It has been so successful that the crowds are potentially hazardous to the facility, and the ballroom could remedy this problem." Mar-a-Lago's team "did a lot of shuttle diplomacy with the National Trust for Historic Preservation," said Wes Blackman, who was Mar-a-Lago's project manager for the ballroom. The trust has easements at Mar-a-Lago, including two to protect the views to the east and west, and one to protect the tree line along the south property line, he said. After Mar-a-Lago opened as a club in 1995, the events coordinator at the time brought Blackman and Trump to the ballroom built by Post and said it would not be able to meet the demand for large events . "There isn't room to put them that is weatherproof," Blackman recalled the coordinator saying. When the ballroom was officially pitched to the town in 1999, it was set to replace a large white tent that Mar-a-Lago had temporarily erected to host large events on the property, Blackman said. Because the structures could not be permanent, air conditioner compressors for events in the tent were placed on trailers, and temporary bathrooms were brought in, he said. The ballroom was "a very large building," he said, with records showing that it was 17,000 square feet, larger than the 11,000-square-foot ballroom built by Post. West Palm Beach-based architect Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects was the lead designer on the project. Blackman said he and Gonzalez took a lot of trips to Washington, D.C., and the trust visited the property as well, as they worked to finalize a design the trust would approve. Together with Gonzalez, Blackman said Mar-a-Lago's team "chased that building all over the property" with the trust until the location was settled. "It's in a hollow, a low spot, and it's behind the wall, and you really have a hard time even knowing the building is there when you pass the property," Blackman said. Before finalizing the architectural plans, Trump sent Gonzalez and Blackman to New York to meet with famed architect Philip Johnson, whose Glass House in Connecticut remains an iconic example of the International Style of design. Johnson, who died in January of 2005, declined to take on the task of designing the new ballroom, which was essentially "locked into the Mediterranean revival framework" because of the rest of the property, Blackman said. "He wasn't into that," Blackman said. "He was in his 'monster phase,' which were a lot of oblique angles, and he wasn't into having to fit into a mold like that." Trump also asked Blackman to consult with another friend: crooner Paul Anka, whom Trump hoped would weigh in on the new ballroom's acoustics. "I did call him," Blackman said. "It was a unique experience." He added that because Trump had already made the decision to have marble floors in the ballroom: "There's nothing you can do with that. It's gonna be a reflective surface," Blackman said of Anka's advice. Trump was adamant that the new ballroom needed to be larger than the 15,000-square-foot Ponce de Leon Ballroom at The Breakers Palm Beach resort, Blackman said. While that was part of the inspiration, he said that Trump also wanted to bring the annual International Red Cross Ball to Mar-a-Lago. Trump was successful, and one of the highlights of Palm Beach's social season soon moved to Mar-a-Lago's Grand Ballroom. "We always thought that it helped getting the National Trust to approve something first, and then that kind of gave us the 'Good Housekeeping' certificate that we could cash in with the Landmarks Commission," Blackman said of the town's approval process. While the project to build the new ballroom received approval from Palm Beach's council in October of 1999, the timeline was pushed back several times because of construction of a new Royal Park Bridge, the Daily News reported in September 2002. The project received final approval from Palm Beach's landmarks board in April of 2002, and construction began the next year, with the building permit issued in August of 2003, Blackman said. While his 10-year tenure with Mar-a-Lago ended soon after receiving the permit, Blackman returned to work on other projects at Mar-a-Lago, including the ballroom's kitchen and the massive flag pole that led to a legal battle between Trump and Palm Beach. What does the Grand Ballroom look like? The exterior of the ballroom building, which is on the property's south side between the main house and Southern Boulevard, was designed by Gonzalez to mimic the Spanish-Moorish style of the rest of the estate, the Daily News reported at the time. But the ballroom's interior was designed with France in mind. The decor drew on Versailles, with shining marble floors, intricate gold leaf designs, crystal chandeliers and soaring 40-foot coffered ceilings. The Daily News reported at the time that the gold leaf alone carried a $7 million price tag, and the overall project cost stood at $35 million. "I modeled the interior after Versailles, and there is nothing like it in the United States," Trump said of the ballroom in a 2005 interview with Florida Design magazine. When it opened, guests were reportedly awestruck by the 17 Stras chandeliers, each with a cost of $250,000 and imported from Czechoslovakia. The first major event in the new ballroom was Mar-a-Lago's annual New Year's Eve Gala to ring in 2005, according to news reports. From a Dec. 31, 2004, Daily News report: "A 1,200-square-foot loggia leads into the two-story foyer through a series of Palladian-style mahogany doors with wrought-iron borders. A staircase leads to a 45-foot observation tower. For New Year's Eve, there will be stages at opposite ends of the ballroom, one for the dance orchestra and one for headliner Vanessa Williams." The next event: a grand party to mark the marriage of Trump to his then-fiancée, Melania Knauss. Their marriage ceremony was Jan. 22, 2005, at the Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea, and celebrants then made the short drive to Mar-a-Lago for the reception. Anka, a guest at the wedding, treated guests to two songs at the reception: "Diana," and a version of the song "Lady Is a Tramp" that Anka dubbed "Donald is a Trump." USA Today contributed to this report. Kristina Webb is a reporter for Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at kwebb@ Subscribe today to support our journalism.

29 Things To Put An End To Your Search For A New Hobby
29 Things To Put An End To Your Search For A New Hobby

Buzz Feed

timea day ago

  • Buzz Feed

29 Things To Put An End To Your Search For A New Hobby

The Reverse Coloring Book to bring a quirky little twist to my homebodies who want a relaxing activity as they lounge on the couch. Instead of coloring within the lines, you actually add the lines — the perfect activity for those who prefer sketching over fiddling with a bunch of different colored pencils. Whimsical? Absolutely. A beginner's guide to calligraphy because you're tired of the chicken-scratch handwriting on your ~fancy~ cards, and it's about time you have penmanship that actually screams, "Why yes, I *am* a sophisticated adult." "The Secret Soup," a whimsical, colorful addition to the TikTok-famous Magic Puzzle series that has taken social media by storm. This isn't just any regular ol' puzzle but an adventure with optical illusions, a ton of Easter eggs, and a ~magical~ twist at the end! This has 1,000 pieces, so you'll certainly be occupied during your evenings at home. 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