FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Kicking Off the Holiday Season

by Patricia Vanikiotis

Nov 27, 2021

Since I moved to Southern Oregon 13 years ago, I’ve marked the beginning of the holiday season by attending a delightful fundraising event for Medford’s Craterian Theater, a performing arts venue which hosts everything from Broadway touring companies to symphonic concerts, local dramatic performances to a range of music acts. The Gingerbread Jubilee is scheduled for the weekend preceding Thanksgiving, with all-edible (mostly gingerbread) 3-D creations vying for cash prizes and awards in student, adult and group categories (children and adults). It included a gala evening, live auction and a weekend of viewing open to the public. Pre-COVID, one would wander through lobby and mezzanine spaces of the performing arts center, admiring from all sides the skill and imagination of the amateur bakers.

Last year one could view the creations either via an online video or in person . . . but through large display windows to keep visitors outdoors and socially distanced, and the same accommodations were in place this year. I found it pleasant to be outdoors and not crowded into confined, overly warm spaces, but only a few of the entries were mounted on turntables so one could view them from every angle, and the distance from the viewer to the pieces was often greater than indoors. Still, the skill and attention to detail is apparent and much to be admired. My 4- and 7-year-old grandsons and I visited the works of art last Saturday and viewed them all more than once, noticing new details each time and the clever use of materials such as pretzels (fence posts and window panes), rosemary (trees and shrubs), Skittles and M&Ms (paving stones) to create delightful scenes.

There was no single unifying theme, but many focused on wintry and Christmas themes. I loved the elaborate roof designs and the “glass” greenhouse in this one, https://www.craterian.org/ with the gingerbread character making a snow angel in the foreground. Another used an abundance of candy to create a sweet wonderland, https://www.craterian.org/  and one even imagined ice cream cone topiaries in a snowy candy land. https://www.craterian.org/  Several referenced favorite plays or movies, such as Hamilton https://www.craterian.org/  and Beauty and the Beast, https://www.craterian.org/ . Included in this group were displays depicting Christmas-themed movies. Here is The Polar Express, https://www.craterian.org/ but my favorite had to be the large and amazingly detailed bow to A Christmas Story, which managed to include the kid with his tongue frozen to the flagpole (waving flag included) Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon, Ralphy on the front porch in his despised bunny sleeper Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon and the entire house with lace curtains in the windows and the old car with working headlights and taillights in the driveway. Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon

There were depictions of magnificent edifices, such as the Taj Mahal Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon and a towering, elegant castle, Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon  but also more humble scenes such as a gingerbread cottage Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon and a cheery little train depot. Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon

The winner of the Best of Show award and a stunner for its incredible decoration and detail was “Sweet Deception,” depicting Hansel and Gretel at the witch’s enticingly sweet cottage. Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon  I particularly enjoyed the path paved in an intricate pattern of M&Ms or Skittles or the like, placed on their edges in a swirling pattern that reminded me of the stone-covered streets in Santoríni, Belém and Lisbon. Gingerbread Jubilee, Medford, Oregon

Once again, the Gingerbread Jubilee proved a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season, and I look forward to sharing the experience each year with my grandboys and helping it become their tradition, too.

— Patty Vanikiotis, associate editor/copy editor

 

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Nov 22, 2024

Choose Lompoc on California’s Central Coast for Outdoor-Focused Fun

If you’re in weather denial mode and resisting the urge to switch your closet over to sweaters and snow boots, keep summer going for a little longer in Lompoc, California.

Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands

Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.

Daily
Nov 22, 2024

Try This New Sea-to-Table Experience at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, the oceanfront property on the pristine coast of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, just launched a new Sea to Table program in partnership with SpearMex, the region’s premier sea exploration experts. The new programming features a hands-on experience and ocean-to-table culinary journey combining sustainable fishing practices with personalized gastronomic techniques lead by Executive Chef Jorge González.

Daily
Nov 22, 2024

Waldorf Astoria Residences New York Announces Partnership with Bang & Olufsen

Waldorf Astoria Residences New York recently announced a partnership with Bang & Olufsen. The contemporary residences sit atop the legendary hotel, currently nearing the end of its expansive restoration.

Pick Your Paradise: Experience Bali at 3 Incredible Hotels

Bali is a name synonymous with island bliss. But there is more than just one side to this incredible place. Get a sense for the variety of experiences Bali offers by learning about three hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with distinctive opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card, earn points for free nights at each of these properties.

Daily
Nov 21, 2024

Hotel Saint Augustine to Open in Houston’s Museum District Neighborhood

Hotel Saint Augustine, expected to softly open in Houston this December, is a design-savvy boutique hotel from Austin-based hospitality group Bunkhouse. The hotel will officially debut January 2025.

eFlyer Reviews
Nov 20, 2024

Château des Fleurs Review

Just a short block from the Champs Elysées, flower-bedecked window boxes grace the corner and clearly identify Château des Fleurs. This 37-room boutique hotel is one of Vivre-LMB’s five small hotels in Paris owned by Olivier Bertrand and his sisters and affiliated with Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems

Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.

eFlyer Deals
Nov 20, 2024

2 Miami Hotels Go Big for Black Friday, Cyber Monday

Two Miami hotels entice travelers this season to take advantage of some special offers. Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Autograph Collection, in the heart of Mid-Beach, offers up to 40 percent off the best available rate when booked by Dec. 30 for stays through Dec. 30, 2025. Book this offer.