Photo: Nicole Freezer Rubens

Our roving photographer takes us to the biggest party on Fifth Avenue—“The Bergdorf Soirée.” Speaking of parties, we kicked off the season yesterday with our fabulous holiday lunch and a visit from Santa. And it’s okay to gift yourself this season, and our NYC Insiders’ Club is the perfect gift. Two of our talented friends have must see shows this month—Steve Schalchlin is at Urban Stages and Quinn Lemley (aka Rita Hayword) is at the Triad. There’s an amazing Gingerbread City at the South Street Seaport, and our Long Island reporter introduces us to another remarkable woman. Enjoy the season!

The Biggest Party on Fifth Avenue.

Our roving photographer, Nicole Freezer Rubens writes:

You are all cordially invited to the biggest party on Fifth Avenue, “The Bergdorf Soirée”, and no need to bring a hostess gift! The incredibly creative hand crafted holiday windows at Bergdorf Goodman never disappoint. The planning begins 9 months in advance. These holiday party extravaganzas took 6,500 hours to craft and 2000 hours to install. The themes include “After Hours”, “Masquerade Gala”, “Game Night” and a “New Year’s Eve Countdown”, and showcase clothing by designers Valentino, Marc Jacobs, Givenchy, and Libertine, all in keeping with the festive vibe.

The team of artisans responsible each year have their own production studio, and possibly the most fun job in the world. The sense of whimsy, explosive color and ingenuity are limitless. The more sequins the better! My favorite photos of the window displays are the ones with the Midtown skyscrapers and people hurrying by reflected in the glass. This faintly demonstrates New York’s vibrant, energetic spirit and how we are truly a city that never sleeps, especially around the holiday season! R.S.V.P. and attend the best party of the year, featured until January 5th, when the team will start to plan next year’s stunning works of art.

~Nicole Freezer Rubens is the author of “The Long Pause and the Short Breath”

What a Holiday Celebration!

We had such a joyful time ringing in the season with our fabulous Tomatoes at Tony DiNapoli on the East Side. The afternoon was filled with an Italian feast, lively tunes from the Rick Bogart Trio, spirited performances from our talented Tomatoes, and—much to everyone’s delight—a surprise visit from Santa himself. And apparently, we have all been very nice Tomatoes this year. (with a little naughty throw in.) CHECK OUT OUR PHOTOS.

Give Yourself the Gift of Unforgettable Experiences

Launched in September, some of the adventures our NYC Insider members have enjoyed included private tours of the Waldorf, Printemps, and the MET Opera House. With dazzling 2026 events already on the horizon, including a New Year’s lunch at the historic Harmonie Club, a Valentine’s wellness escape at the Guerlain Spa at the Waldorf, theater and jazz events, and a private tour of Radio City Music Hall, there’s no better time to treat yourself to the gift of community, culture, and connection. GET THE DETAILS. 

Dec. 9 Living in the Bonus Round

This will be an incredible evening of music, storytelling, and celebration with the amazing Steve Schalchlin and a very talented cast. Thirty years ago, Steve was told his time was short. Surviving this fatal diagnosis became his “Bonus Round.” Now, he’s bringing that journey to the stage—from a Baptist preacher’s kid in Texas to a Beatles evangelist in New York. The event at Urban Stages is a fundraiser for Urban Stages’ student theater programs. It will be a night to remember.

👉 Get tickets now: tinyurl.com/urban-steve
📞 Or call: (212) 421-1380

 Quinn Lemley Is Rita Hayworth “The Heat Is On!”  With Four Shows At The Triad Theater

Critics have hailed Quinn Lemley’s performance as “dazzling” (The New York Times), “sensual and spellbinding” (Cabaret Scenes), and “You don’t even have to squint to see that Rita’s in the room” (The New York Post).

Broadway World “Best Female Vocalist” and Bistro Award winner Quinn Lemley returns to the New York stage with her critically acclaimed show, Rita Hayworth: The Heat Is On! — a celebration of Hollywood’s original Love Goddess.  Written and directed by Carter Inskeep.

This electrifying musical event launches a record release residency at The Triad, featuring two big band performances and two intimate evenings with quartet with musical direction by Andrew Wheeler — all in honor of Quinn’s new album, Rita Hayworth Revealed, which was under Grammy® consideration for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album and 2025 Josie Award nominee.

The Triad, 158 West 72nd Street, New York City.

Performance Dates:

Sunday, December 21 at 7:30 PM – Record Release with Full Big Band. Get tickets.

Additional performances:

Saturday, January 10 at 6:30 PM

Wednesday February 18 at 6:30 PM – Quartet

Thursday, March 19 at 6:30 PM – Quartet

Tickets: $25–$50 | $25 food & beverage minimum

Tickets available at www.TriadNYC.com

Dec. 5-28.  Visit the Gingerbread City

The South Street Seaport is a sweet holiday wonderland with The Gingerbread City, a fun free exhibit. Top NYC architects and designers have crafted an entire cityscape from cookies, icing, and candy—think gingerbread skyscrapers, brownstones, parks, and whimsical winter scenes.

Visitors can also join hands‑on workshops to build their own edible creations, making this festive event ideal for families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike. Come marvel at New York’s skyline in gingerbread and celebrate the season with creativity and fun. GET THE DETAILS.

Spotlight on Long Island Women

Our Long Island reporter Andrea Peponakis introduces Antoinette Truglio Martin, a native storyteller whose life embodies resilience, creativity, and love. From her children’s classic Famous Seaweed Soup to her memoir Hug Everyone You Know, she transforms everyday moments into timeless stories that honor heritage and courage. Guided by her mantra, “Live life like it’s your last breath,” Antoinette inspires readers to embrace gratitude, adventure, and joy. READ MORE.