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Claire Kay Hernandez

EventsFilm

On The Scene: A Haunting in Venice Beach Blu-ray and DVD Release Party

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

Venice, California, transformed into a haunting labyrinth on November 28th as Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment and 20th Century Studios conjured the spirits for the Blu-ray and DVD release of “A Haunting in Venice.” The air was thick with mystery, and the event promised an immersive experience that mirrored the eerie charm of the film.

Upon arriving, attendees were welcomed with various activities that transported them to the mystical canals of Venice. Masked characters of the film lingered around the house as guests walked about. It made me feel like I was at a haunted house during Halloween; it had peak spooky vibes. Guests tested their wits about the film during a trivia battle on the second floor. Appetizers were served throughout the evening that gave us a taste of Italy.

A highlight of the evening was the Seance Room, where Medium Christina Engalhardt attempted to bridge the gap between the living and the spirit world. The ethereal atmosphere heightened the suspense as attendees eagerly anticipated what would happen once they stepped into the room. Each guest who walked in had the chance to have a tarot card reading and get a glimpse into their spiritual self.

One of the most captivating elements of the evening for me was the Typewriter Poets, perched on the rooftop, creating personalized poems for attendees. As the cool night breeze whispered through the canals of Venice, guests could capture the essence of the spooky night with a unique poem to take away – a haunting memento from an unforgettable evening.

The event was a perfect marriage of theme and execution, embracing the eerie ambiance of the film. From watching the movie in theaters to experiencing this one-night activation, it was a unique, thoughtfully executed experience. With a mix of spine-tingling activities, engaging trivia, and the personal touch of a typewriter poet, it was an immersive celebration that transported guests to the haunting beauty of Venice. “A Haunting in Venice” left its mark as the moon glowed over the canals.

Check out our reel of the night here.

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Events

On The Scene: Holiday Road Grand Opening

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

LOS ANGELES (November 14, 2023) – The City of Angels is ablaze with the season’s spirit as LA’s leading immersive holiday event, Holiday Road, opens its doors for the 4th consecutive year. With a star-studded grand opening on November 24, featuring the delightful Eva Longoria and her son, Santiago Enrique Bastón, this year’s festivities promise to be brighter and more enchanting than ever.


Holiday Road, nestled in the picturesque King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas, has become a beloved tradition, drawing over 100,000 people annually. The event boasts a mile-long walking trail that transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. As you enter the world of Holiday Road, you’re greeted by larger-than-life holiday installations, thousands of twinkling Christmas lights, and the ever-jolly Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The immersive experience includes:

  • Interactive photo moments.
  • A festive souvenir shop.
  • Premium holiday bars.
  • Top-notch food trucks.

Attendees can stroll through themed areas like the North Pole, Elf Village, and Gingerbread Lane, all adorned with impressive light tunnels, Christmas tree forests, and countless candy canes. My favorite part of the mile-long stroll was the fake snow falling from above. It’s a holiday spectacle that captivates both adults and children alike.

This year, Holiday Road has upped the ante with new lantern art and immersive scenes, adding more magic to the experience. As an exciting first, the event has partnered with Amazon MGM Studios for a Candy Cane Lane activation, tying into the release of the holiday comedy film starring Eddie Murphy. Guests can step into the world of the movie, take photos at the Carver’s house, and immerse themselves in the film’s enchanting narrative. Check out the trailer for the film here.

As attendees navigate this winter wonderland, the atmosphere is full of festive magic. It’s a walking celebration of the holidays, a jubilant occasion where families come together to share the joy of the season. With 22+ open dates until the end of the year, Holiday Road invites everyone to join the merriment and create cherished memories in this dazzling LA tradition. Tickets are available now at HolidayRoadUSA.com, ensuring your holiday season is filled with enchantment and wonder.

Check out our reel of Holiday Road here.

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ArtEventsFashion & Beauty

On The Scene: ECKŌ UNLTD 30th Anniversary Celebration Dear1993

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

In a night of nostalgia, beats, and style, the ECKŌ UNLTD 30th Anniversary Celebration: Dear1993 brought together fashion enthusiasts, music lovers, and fans alike for an unforgettable journey through the brand’s illustrious history and exciting future. Held on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at THE RISE HOLLYWOOD, the event was a spectacular ode to three decades of ECKŌ UNLTD’s groundbreaking innovation.

The highlight of the evening was the launch of the collaborative capsule “Dear1993.art” by streetwear icon and ECKŌ UNLTD co-founder Marc Eckō. The collection, paying tribute to the “World Famous Rhino Brand” and the year it was born, seamlessly blended the essence of the past with a bold glimpse into the future. Limited-edition pieces from this exclusive collection became available on ECKO.com the same night, allowing fans to take home a piece of history.

The beats curated by renowned DJ MUGGS from Soul Assassins/Cypress Hill and Blondie Beach set the perfect ambiance for the celebration. The soundscape was a masterful blend of old and new, reflecting the essence of ECKŌ UNLTD’s evolution.
As guests explored the venue, they had access to an archive pop-up museum featuring rare collections from the “ECKŌ HEADS” era (Circa 1993-2003). It was a walk down memory lane, showcasing the brand’s evolution and impact on streetwear culture.

Complimentary beverages flowed generously, providing the perfect accompaniment to toasts raised in honor of three decades of style, creativity, and innovation. Uncle Paulie’s Deli catered for the evening, providing the ideal snack for attendees.

The Dear1993 event wasn’t just a celebration but a living testament to the brand’s journey through time, a fusion of past and future that left an indelible mark on everyone present. As the night unfolded, it was clear that ECKŌ UNLTD’s legacy is not just a story of the past, but a vibrant narrative that continues to shape the future of streetwear.

Watch our Instagram Reel of the event, here. 

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Lifestyle

Taco Bell Unveils: Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass and Grilled Cheese Nacho Fries!

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

Prepare to embark on a taste adventure as Taco Bell introduces two mouthwatering additions to its menu. If you’ve been craving the return of the beloved Nacho Fries, Taco Bell has answered your prayers and taken it a step further with the Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass and the irresistible Grilled Cheese Nacho Fries.

Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass: A Fan’s Dream Come True

Starting November 14th, Taco Bell Rewards Members can snag the exclusive Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass for just $10, available through the Taco Bell app until December 4th. This pass is no ordinary ticket to flavor town—it grants members the joy of indulging in a regular Nacho Fries order every day for a glorious 30 consecutive days. It’s a golden opportunity for fries enthusiasts to savor the crispy perfection of Taco Bell’s iconic Nacho Fries.

Grilled Cheese Nacho Fries: Fusion of Flavor

On November 16th, brace yourselves for the collision of two culinary powerhouses—Nacho Fries and Grilled Cheese. For $4.99, Taco Bell is unleashing the Grilled Cheese Nacho Fries nationwide, available for a limited time. Picture this: crispy, golden potatoes fried to perfection, topped with a grilled, bubbly blend of mozzarella, monterey pepper jack, and cheddar cheeses. But the indulgence doesn’t stop there—these golden delights are garnished with marinated and grilled steak, Taco Bell’s signature Nacho Cheese, and a kick of Chipotle sauces. It’s a flavor explosion that promises to satisfy even the most adventurous taste buds.

Taco Bell has once again proven that innovation knows no bounds, and the Nacho Fries Lover’s Pass and Grilled Cheese Nacho Fries are poised to become the next fan favorites. Don’t miss out on the fiesta of flavors – it’s a Taco Bell experience you won’t want to skip!

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EntertainmentEvents

On The Scene: MAXIM 2023 Halloween Party Los Angeles

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

Ghosts, ghouls, and the sexiest costumes you’ve ever seen, the MAXIM 2023 Halloween Party was a spine-tingling, heart-pounding extravaganza that left partygoers nationwide bewitched. I had the spine-chilling pleasure of attending the event on Friday, October 27th, at the Nightingale Plaza in Los Angeles. Let me tell you, it was a night to remember!

Presented by MADE Special and VIP Nightlife, the MAXIM Halloween Party was a two-night spectacle held in cities like Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, and Houston. These parties brought together the crème de la crème of Halloween enthusiasts and transformed renowned venues into eerie wonderlands.

Los Angeles was treated to a mesmerizing set by the EC Twins, and the beats by DJ COOLWHIP had the dance floor going. The Nightingale Plaza in Los Angeles was the perfect venue for the spooky shenanigans. It was adorned with immersive lighting, and the sound production was bone-rattling. VIP lounges were scattered throughout, offering the ultimate Halloween hideaway.

But it wasn’t just about the music and the venue; it was the people that made this party truly unforgettable. Everyone showed up in their most creative and thought-out costumes. It didn’t matter that Halloween was just around the corner; this was the night to unleash the inner fashion monster.

Premium open bars, brand activations, and giveaways added a layer of enchantment to the night. The MAXIM 2023 Halloween Party was a devilishly delightful experience that left us all craving more.

MADE Special and VIP Nightlife, the masterminds behind this epic event, know how to craft unforgettable moments that bring brands and people together. Their commitment to curating cultural experiences was evident in every detail of the party.

In the end, it was the MAXIM 2023 Halloween Party’s fusion of top-notch entertainment, captivating venue transformations, and the infectious spirit of its attendees that made it the spookiest, most sensational Halloween bash of the year. It was a night of enchantment, entertainment, and extravagant fun that had us all under its spell.

Photo credit: On behalf of MAXIM, MADE Special and VIP Nightlife

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EntertainmentEventsTV

On The Scene: 30 Coins Season 2 Special Screening

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

Lights, camera, supernatural chills! The eagerly awaited Season 2 of “30 Coins” took center stage at Vidiots Theater on Tuesday, October 24th, for a special screening that left audiences spellbound. As the curtains drew back, the atmosphere was electric, and the excitement was palpable.

The event was a cinematic spectacle, complete with theater concessions, mini-meals, and various beverages that added a touch of indulgence to the evening. The stage was set for an unforgettable night of spine-tingling entertainment.

The screening kicked off promptly, treating attendees to a double feature with Episodes 1 and 2, setting the stage for a heart-pounding journey into the eerie world of Pedraza. As the story unfolds, the once-tranquil town’s residents find themselves incarcerated in a psychiatric hospital, a sinister prelude to the looming supernatural terror.

But the thrills didn’t stop there. After the spine-tingling screening, the audience was in for a special treat—a Q&A session with none other than the creative mastermind behind “30 Coins” himself, Director, Writer, and Executive Producer Álex de la Iglesia. The discussion was skillfully moderated by KCRW’s Anthony Valadez, providing fans with a unique opportunity to delve into the mind behind the series.

Álex de la Iglesia shared insights into his inspiration, revealing that his childhood TV favorites played a significant role in shaping the show. He also spoke about the joy of witnessing his work on the big screen and the sheer delight of experiencing the audience’s reactions in real time.

“30 Coins” Season 2 promises to bring a malevolent new foe to the forefront, a force so formidable that it sends shivers down the devil’s spine. With a masterful blend of horror and suspense, this series keeps fans at the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting what lies ahead in Pedraza.

The Season 2 special screening of “30 Coins” was a night to remember, filled with tantalizing thrills, a dash of nostalgia, and a close encounter with the show’s visionary creator. It left fans craving more of the supernatural adventures that are sure to unfold in the episodes to come.

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EventsFilm

On The Scene: Five Nights at Freddy’s Blumhouse Exhibit

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

Lights, camera, animatronics! Guests gathered at Universal Studios Hollywood for a night of animatronic horrors and endless fun as the world of Five Nights at Freddy’s collided with the Blumhouse Exhibit. As the sun dipped below the Hollywood Hills, attendees were treated to an unforgettable experience, complete with photo ops, exclusive Five Nights at Freddy’s merchandise tucked inside pizza boxes, and an immersive journey into the chilling world of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza.

The event was a testament to the enduring appeal of the Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise. Fans of the game series, which has spawned countless jump-scare moments and a dedicated following, were given the chance to step into the shoes of the game’s protagonist, a night guard trying to survive a night surrounded by animatronic horrors.

Guests had the chance to pose with life-sized animatronic characters like Freddy Fazbear, Bonnie, Chica, and Foxy. The lifelike details of the animatronics added an eerie touch to the snapshots, giving attendees a taste of the heart-pounding suspense to expect in the movie.

The immersive experience served as a reminder of the enduring appeal of Five Nights at Freddy’s and left guests eagerly anticipating the upcoming movie adaptation. Five Nights at Freddy’s fans and horror enthusiasts alike can look forward to more thrills and chills as they eagerly await the film’s release on October 27th. Universal Studios Hollywood’s Blumhouse Exhibit proved that the legacy of Freddy Fazbear is alive and well, and the nightmares will continue to haunt us all.

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ArtEvents

On The Scene: Lily Martinez’ “Siempre en mi Corazón” Catrina Costume Exhibit

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

On October 5th, I had the pleasure of entering into the enchanting world of Lily Martinez’s “Siempre en mi Corazón” Catrina Costume Exhibit at the Gateway to Nature Center & Museum in Los Angeles. This opening marked the commencement of the Día De Los Muertos season. It was a captivating journey into the heart of Mexican Catrina culture, as seen through the eyes of a true native Angeleno.

As I strolled through the exhibit, I was immediately struck by the exquisite craftsmanship that graced every corner of the room. Each of the 25 Catrina costumes on display, handcrafted over the years by Lily Martinez, was a breathtaking testament to her dedication and passion. The attention to detail was nothing short of awe-inspiring, making me wonder how someone could create such intricate, delicate works of art. Each costume told a unique story, a vivid portrayal of the Catrina tradition that continues to thrive today.

Walking through “Siempre en mi Corazón,” it was clear that the entire exhibit was a love letter to the culture. The vivid colors, the elegant designs, and the genuine care in every piece resonated with the warmth and love with which this tradition is held. The atmosphere was more than just an art display; it was a celebration of life and a tribute to those who have come before us.

Tequila CAZADORES, known for its commitment to authenticity and tradition, was the perfect partner for this event. Their premium tequila offerings added a delightful touch of Mexican heritage to an already remarkable evening, turning it into a proper fiesta.

It was a chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Mexican Catrina tradition and celebrate life in a way that only Los Angeles can offer.

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Uncategorized

Taco Bell’s Fiesta for National Taco Day: Breakfast Tacos & Taco Lover’s Pass Return!

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

Spooky season? No, it’s taco season. Get ready to spice up your morning routine because Taco Bell is about to make your breakfasts even more exciting! As we celebrate National Taco Day on October 4th, Taco Bell has some mouthwatering surprises in store.

From October 3rd to October 4th, taco enthusiasts nationwide can snag the Taco Lover’s Pass for just $10. But what makes this pass so irresistible? Once enrolled, you can redeem one delectable taco of your choice every day for a whole month. That’s 30 days of taco bliss! The vast options include classics like the Crunchy Taco and Soft Taco, supreme variations, the irresistible Doritos® Locos Tacos, and the exciting newcomer – Breakfast Tacos.

Starting October 12th, Taco Bell will roll out their latest breakfast menu item- Breakfast Tacos. Priced at just $1.49 each (or available through the Taco Lover’s Pass), these tacos are delicious. Fluffy scrambled eggs paired with your choice of sausage, bacon, or crispy breakfast potatoes, all topped with a generous layer of real shredded cheddar cheese. I had the pleasure of trying them during a visit to Taco Bell HQ.

With the Taco Lover’s Pass and the new Breakfast Tacos, National Taco Day has never looked more delicious. Whether you’re a taco aficionado or just looking for a new breakfast adventure, Taco Bell has you covered. Get ready to savor the flavors, and let the taco celebration begin!

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Events

On The Scene: Nights of the Jack Grand Opening

by Claire Kay Hernandez
written by Claire Kay Hernandez

The crisp autumn air carries whispers of Halloween, and in Los Angeles, that means one thing: Halloween events galore. How do you decide which to go to? The one event that stands out for me, hands down, is Nights of the Jack. On Friday, September 29, I attended the grand opening of this breathtakingly immersive experience that celebrates the essence of Halloween.

The star of the night was undoubtedly the mile-long walking trail adorned with an enchanting array of hand-carved festival jack-o’-lanterns. The vibrant Halloween lights and themed scenes created a mesmerizing spectacle that appeals to visitors of all ages. As we walked around the trail, we were captivated by the creativity on display, from SpongeBob’s Bikini Bottom to a touching tribute to Kobe. Each pumpkin was a work of art.

This year, Nights of the Jack introduced various interactive experiences that added a thrilling twist to the festivities. An AR scavenger hunt challenged attendees to “find Jack” and reap digital rewards. Digital carnival games, including axe throwing and jack-o’-lantern tossing, added to the excitement. But the crown jewel was the AR selfie stations featuring spooky backgrounds – the perfect way to capture the night’s memories.

Beyond the pumpkins, Nights of the Jack offered a cornucopia of attractions for visitors to savor. Expert pumpkin carvers brought pumpkins to life before our very eyes. Themed face painting delighted guests of all ages, turning them into Halloween creatures of their choosing. A resident psychic offered mystical readings, and a souvenir shop provided a chance to take home a piece of the magic.

Nights of the Jack is not just another Halloween event; it’s an experience that caters to everyone. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure or a unique date night, this is the place to be. The variety of food options and drinks kept us energized throughout our journey.

As I left the event, I couldn’t help but wonder if they would create a Christmas trail. If they do, consider me there. Nights of the Jack is a place where Halloween’s magic is celebrated and truly lived.

Check out our recap reel here.

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