Latest news with #SummerCelebration
Free Malaysia Today
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Free Malaysia Today
Bon Odori draws 50,000 in festival's debut outside Shah Alam
Annual Japanese festival Bon Odori, held for the first time in Sunway City instead of Shah Alam, attracted 50,000 people from all walks of life. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) PETALING JAYA : The 49th Bon Odori Festival drew a record-breaking crowd of over 50,000 visitors at Sunway City Kuala Lumpur on July 12-13, the first time the Japanese summer celebration was held outside Shah Alam in nearly five decades. Previously held at the Panasonic Stadium in Shah Alam, the strategic move to Sunway City was to broaden the event's outreach under the 'Surprising Selangor' campaign in conjunction with Visit Selangor Year 2025. 'Bon Odori is more than a festival. It's a reflection of the deep ties between Malaysia and Japan,' said Sunway Mall's chief executive officer HC Chan, who expressed hope that the two-day format would continue well into the future. Co-organised by the Japan Club of Kuala Lumpur (JCKL), the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur and the Japanese embassy, with support from Tourism Selangor, the festival featured over 100 stalls, musical performances and crowd-led traditional dances. Selangor executive councillor for local government and tourism Ng Suee Lim (left) with Japan's ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata during the Bon Odori festival over the weekend. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle pic) Japan's ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata said preparations for the expanded format took more than half a year, involving close coordination with local authorities and cultural partners. Bon Odori, a summer festival rooted in Japanese Buddhist tradition, has evolved into a massive cultural celebration across Malaysia since its inception here in 1977. Originally held so Japanese expatriates could pass on their heritage to their children, the event now attracts a multi-ethnic crowd eager to immerse in food, music and dance. 'Tonight is not just a celebration of dance or food, it is a bridge between our communities,' said Selangor executive councillor for local government and tourism Ng Suee Lim at the launch. He praised Sunway's involvement in elevating the festival into a tourism highlight, noting a sharp rise in Japanese tourist arrivals to the state — from 110,018 in 2023 to 132,526 in 2024, an increase of 20.5%. Year 9 students of the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur opened the Bon Odori festival with a stirring Taiko drum and dance performance. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) Students from the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur opened the festival with a spirited Taiko performance before leading the Bon Odori dance from the central Yagura platform, a symbolic act to invite the crowd to join in. Year 9 student Aika Sato, who performed on July 12 with a group of 18 Taiko drummers and 15 dancers, said they trained daily for a month to master three sets of traditional routines. 'We practised after lunch and during our breaks every day. It's our way of sharing Japan's traditional dances,' she said. 'It's a bit different here compared with Japan, where the festivals are bigger and usually end with fireworks. Whether in Japan or here, it's all about sharing and coming together,' she added. Year 9 student Aika Sato of the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur says Bon Odori is all about sharing and coming together as one community. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle pic) Sunday featured a different lineup with Year 7 and Year 8 students leading the performance, including 58 dancers and 12 drummers. Chan said the Bon Odori event reflected Sunway's broader collaboration with Japan through education and business, including joint ventures in IT, clean energy and university exchanges. 'Through events like this, we are not just building townships, we are nurturing cross-cultural communities,' he said. Festivalgoers indulged in everything from mouthwatering yakitori to takoyaki and ramune soda. Food stalls were curated by Pingmin Market and included Muslim- and non-Muslim-friendly offerings, in line with the festival's inclusive ethos. Admission to the festival was free, and crowd control was managed with assistance from the police, the Subang Jaya City Council and medical volunteers. Visitors to the Bon Odori event look on as 18 Taiko drummers and 15 dancers from the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur perform. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) JCKL president Dai Hoshiai described the event as a symbol of cross-cultural harmony. 'It started small, but has now become one of the largest Bon Odori festivals outside of Japan,' he said. For many, the festival offered more than entertainment – it was a bridge between cultures. 'We want people to experience our dance, food and games, and understand Japanese traditions,' Sato said. 'That's what Bon Odori means to me.'
Axios
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
IBE Summer Celebration season returns to Indianapolis
The marquee event of Indiana Black Expo's programming is back to celebrate the summer and promote unity within the Circle City. Why it matters: IBE's Summer Celebration is the largest annual fundraiser for the statewide nonprofit and an Indianapolis staple that has welcomed crowds for more than five decades. How it works: Proceeds generated by the event pay for year-round initiatives related to education, business development, community learning, performing arts, college scholarships and more. Since 1983, IBE has provided more than $5 million in college scholarships. The big picture: The gathering arrives just one weekend after a mass shooting occurred in downtown Indianapolis, hours after the city's Fourth of July fireworks. Two were killed and five were wounded in the shooting, sparking public safety changes and a proposal to extend the youth curfew in Marion County to get kids off the street two hours earlier each night. The Summer Celebration suffered its own gun violence when 10 people were hurt in separate downtown shootings during the 2010 festivities. What they're saying: Organizers and police are focused on making IBE's 2025 Summer Celebration safe. "It will take every sector — families, faith leaders, businesses, schools, elected officials and grassroots organizations — working side by side to rebuild the village it takes to raise and protect our children," IBE president and CEO Alice Watson said in a statement. Flashback: The first Indiana Black Expo gathering took place in 1971 and was inspired by the Rev. Jesse Jackson-led Operation PUSH exposition held in Chicago in 1969. Donny Hathaway, an NBA-ABA game and crowning the first Indiana Black Expo Queen were highlights of the inaugural Summer Celebration. If you go: The 2025 IBE Summer Celebration runs through July 20. The full list of events can be found here. Here are a few can't-miss standouts. 📽️ The Black Film Festival in IBE's Black Box Theater on Saturday will feature the premiere of IBE's "Telling Our Story: A Month Is Not Enough" documentary. 💼 Monday and Tuesday's Business Conference at the Indiana Convention Center will offer free workshops for small businesses on topics like preparation strategies for commercial loans and economic trends. 📚 Thursday's Education Conference is headlined by keynote speeches from Veritas Schools founder Brandon P. Fleming and Shaun Woodly, creator of the "Teach Hustle Inspire" movement. 🏆 The Pacers Sports & Entertainment luncheon on July 18 will honor people like Deniece Williams, Wendell Pierce, Chiney Ogwumike and Alfre Woodard. 🎵 outdoor concert returns to Carroll Stadium July 18 with Keith Sweat, SWV, Cameo, Deniece Williams and Christopher Williams taking the stage. 🩺 The Indiana Health Fair takes place from July 18-20 in the Indiana Convention Center, offering more than $4,000 worth of free health screenings. 🎤 DJ Kid Capri, Da Brat and Larenze Tate will be in the house for IBE's All White Affair Concert July 19 at the Indiana Convention Center.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Villa Vie Residences Celebrates 100th Visited Port with Summer Celebration Sale
HOONAH, Alaska, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Villa Vie Residences, the world's first contemporary residential cruise line, is celebrating a major milestone as its flagship, Odyssey, sails to its 100th port since launching in September 2024. To mark this exciting occasion, the company has unveiled its Summer Celebration Sale, a limited-time offer featuring exclusive bonuses for new residents who reserve their Deck 3 Porthole Villa before August 18, 2025. As part of the promotion, buyers can take advantage of value-added perks designed to ease their transition into life at sea and enrich their long-term journey. Deck 3 Porthole Villas Purchase Price: $149,999 Monthly Maintenance Fees: $3,999 (single) | $4,999 (double occupancy) Summer Celebration Bonuses — Available Until August 18, 2025 Welcome Aboard Bonus (Contract executed by August 18) 3 Months of FREE Monthly Maintenance Fees $5,000 Onboard Credit Smooth Sailing Upgrade (Full payment by August 18) Additional 3 Months of FREE Monthly Maintenance Fees Additional $5,000 Onboard Credit "Our arrival to Hoonah, Alaska marking our 100th port is a pivotal chapter not just for the company, but for our community of Residents who've joined us on this incredible journey," said Kathy Villalba, CEO and Founding Partner of Villa Vie Residences. "This sale isn't about slashing prices—it's about rewarding those who believe in this lifestyle and want to be part of something truly remarkable." The Villa Vie's Odyssey is a fully residential ship that offers an entirely new way to explore the world at a slow pace, with an itinerary that spans seven continents and a community of full-time and part-time Residents who call the ship home. Prospective buyers are encouraged to schedule a consultation with a Villa Vie Advisor to learn more and claim their Summer Celebration perks before the August 18 deadline. For details and media inquiries, please contact media@ About Villa Vie ResidencesVilla Vie Residences reimagines cruise ship living with flexible, long-term options that cater to today's travelers. Its Continual World Cruise explores more than 425 ports in over 140 countries across seven continents every three and a half years. Residents choose to own, rent, or lease for life through the Endless Horizons Program, enjoying a unique blend of home comfort and global discovery. Contact:Villa Vie ResidencesEmail: media@ For images and assets, please click here View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Villa Vie Residences Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
White Castle Declares Summer Nights Belong to the Crave
Expanded late-night hours, exclusive Craver Nation Rewards deals, and new Night Castle merch mark White Castle's bold summer celebration COLUMBUS, Ohio, June 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As the sun sets later and the nights grow warmer, White Castle is turning up the heat on summer with a bold reminder: There's only one true destination for nocturnal Cravings — and that's Night Castle®. Beginning June 20, the eve of the summer solstice and the shortest night of the year, White Castle is introducing new hours, new gear and unbeatable deals through Craver Nation Rewards™ for late-night snackers and mealtime adventurers alike. "White Castle has always been there for our Cravers when it matters most — even when the clock strikes midnight and beyond," said Jamie Richardson, vice president at White Castle. "Night Castle isn't just a moment in time — it's a state of mind. Whether it's summer nights, weekend outings or just a craving that won't quit, we're proud to be the place people turn to for craveable flavor, great value and unforgettable memories." Expanded Late-Night Hours to Meet the Crave White Castle is proud to announce that 91% of its Castles are now open until 1 a.m. or later and 72% are open 24/7 — the highest level of late-night operating hours since 2020. Whether it's a midnight snack, a 2 a.m. meal with friends or the perfect nightcap to a summer night out, Night Castle is ready. New Night Castle Merch Drops at House of Crave To help Cravers suit up for the season, White Castle is dropping all-new Night Castle-themed merchandise exclusively at its online store, The limited-edition lineup, available beginning June 20, includes: A Night Castle baseball jersey for the MVP of the midnight snack squad. A classic Night Castle T-shirt. A Night Castle table pong set (with cups included) for summer fun. Popcorn buckets perfect for late-night movie marathons. Cravers can visit to shop the full collection and celebrate the vibe that only Night Castle delivers. Late-Night Value for Craver Nation Rewards Members Night Castle is not just about being open late — it's also about rewarding those who Crave the most. From 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily through Sept. 7, Craver Nation Rewards members can unlock two exclusive offers: The $6 Cheesy Cravings Meal: Four cheese Sliders, three cheese sticks, a small fry and a small soft drink. $5 off in-app delivery orders. Both deals are available through the White Castle app. Signing up for Craver Nation Rewards is free, fast and the easiest way to maximize the Crave — especially after dark. About White Castle® White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain, has been making hot and tasty Sliders since 1921. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the family-owned business owns and operates about 340 restaurants as well as a retail division providing its famous fare in freezer aisles of retail stores nationwide. As part of its commitment to offering the highest quality products, White Castle owns and operates its own Slider Provider meat plants, bakeries and frozen-Slider retail plants. White Castle has earned numerous accolades over the years including Time magazine's "Most Influential Burger of All Time" (2014, The Original Slider®) and Thrillist's "Best Plant-Based Fast-Food Burger" (2019, Impossible™ Slider). In 2021, Fast Company named the fast-food pioneer one of the "10 Most Innovative Dining Companies." White Castle is known for the legendary engagement of its team members and has received the Great Place to Work® Certification™ for an extraordinary five consecutive years spanning 2021–2025. White Castle is beloved by its passionate fans (Cravers), many of whom compete each year for entry into the Cravers Hall of Fame. The official White Castle app makes it easy for Cravers to sign up for the CRAVER NATION REWARDSTM loyalty program, access sweet deals and place pickup orders at any time. For more information on White Castle and how to Follow Your Crave, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE White Castle
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
From Canada with Love: Celebrating 30 Delicious Years of the McFlurry®
Join McDonald's Canada in Honouring the Atlantic Roots of the McFlurry with New Flavours, Art and a Summer of Celebration TORONTO, June 10, 2025 /CNW/ - A Canadian invention as iconic as poutine, the McFlurry® – one of Canada's tastiest creations – is celebrating its 30th anniversary this summer! Created in June 1995 by Ron McLellan, a visionary Canadian franchisee from Bathurst, New Brunswick, the McFlurry has transformed from its humble beginnings as a local favourite into an international phenomenon, enjoyed in 99 countries around the world. This summer, McDonald's Canada is inviting people across the country to dive into a celebration filled with new flavours, art, and Canadian spirit. "The McFlurry is more than a dessert; it's a testament to the Canadian spirit of innovation and a source of national pride," said Ron McLellan, McDonald's Canada Franchisee and inventor of the McFlurry. While the McFlurry might have captured hearts globally, its roots remain planted in Atlantic Canada. As we mark this significant milestone, McDonald's Canada invites guests to celebrate the innovation and community spirit that the McFlurry embodies by picking up a McFlurry this summer and enjoying a sweet bite of unique Canadian history. "Creating the McFlurry was about sharing joy," McLellan reflects. "Seeing it embraced around the world is a dream." Taste the Celebration: New Menu Lineup Celebrate the McFlurry all summer long with limited-time flavours that promise an explosion of taste. Canadians can mark this milestone with the Birthday Cake McFlurry – made with creamy vanilla soft serve, confetti cookie dough, and a splash of birthday cake syrup. They can also indulge in the luscious Cheesecake McFlurry, with four flavour toppings to choose from, including: Strawberry, Fudge, Caramel, and Oreo. Following this, McDonald's Canada will introduce another new flavour to help Canadians beat the heat while quantities last. Every McFlurry is made with 100% Canadian dairy, reflecting McDonald's commitment to quality and Canadian sourcing. Art Meets Dessert: East Coast Originality in Action To pay homage to the birthplace of the McFlurry, McDonald's Canada is launching its "An East Coast Original" campaign to celebrate where it all began. As part of this tribute, seven talented artists across the East Coast were commissioned to craft and produce original McFlurry-inspired artworks in each of their unique mediums to bring this campaign to life. These pieces will highlight the dynamic culture and vibrant spirit of Atlantic Canada, instill pride, and showcase local originality, in recognition of the McFlurry 30th anniversary. The artists included in the campaign are: Vanessa Thomas, Painting & Mixed Media, Nova Scotia Adam McNamara, Wood Sculpture, Nova Scotia Cynthia DeCoste, Painting, New Brunswick Janice Goguen & Les Hookeuses du Bor'de'lo, Rug Hooking, New Brunswick Sarah Nicole Dart, Cynography, PEI Jill O'Reilly, Stained Glass Mosaic, Newfoundland Jonathan and Elizabeth White, Quilting, Driftwood & Painting, Newfoundland McFlurry Fast Facts The McFlurry was first created on June 7th, 1995, in Bathurst, New Brunswick, by Ron McLellan, McDonald's Canada franchisee It was named McFlurry because a flurry felt like a cool, crisp, catch-a-snowflake-on-your-tongue moment of delightful possibility that engaged the senses and lifted people's moods The first-ever McFlurry flavour was Oreo, and still one of the most beloved flavours today At launch, there were six flavours at Ron McLellan's Bathurst, New Brunswick location: Oreo, Smarties, Coffee Crisp, Crispy Crunch, SKOR, and Fudgee-O Ron McLellan's favourite McFlurry flavour is caramel with a double shot of Oreo! Some global unique flavours include Baci® Perugina® in Italy, Matcha in Japan, and Durian Crunch in Singapore About McDonald's Canada: In 1967, Canada welcomed the first McDonald's restaurant to Richmond, British Columbia. Today, McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited has become part of the Canadian fabric, with McDonald's restaurants serving nearly two million guests every day and employing almost 100,00 people across Canada. More than 90 per cent of McDonald's 1,450 Canadian restaurants are locally owned and operated by independent franchisees, with the remaining restaurants corporately owned and operated by McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited. Of the almost $2 billion spent on food and paper by McDonald's restaurants, over 80 per cent is purchased from suppliers in Canada. For more information on McDonald's Canada, visit SOURCE McDonald's Canada View original content to download multimedia:
