The holidays came early to BLACKBARN this week, where the restaurant has transformed its warm, cabin-like interior into a cozy haven for festive brunch. Twinkling seasonal décor, rustic touches, and the warming scent of cinnamon set the tone as Santa and Mrs. Claus float table to table greeting guests. It’s the type of atmosphere that reminds even the grinchiest of New Yorkers what the holidays are all about.
Just a block away from glittering Christmas tree-lined Park Avenue, the beloved NYC-based denim brand Still Here opened their second storefront in the Upper East Side.
Bright lights, ice cream, every color imaginable, and the most Instagram worthy ballpit in the city. You don’t need anything but an Insta account to know exactly what we’re talking about. Since it’s NYC opening in August 2017, The Color Factory has been making headlines for its unique immersive experiences. The walk through museum features sweet treats, a drawing booth where you can learn a new thing or two about a friend, multiple music themed rooms, a floor map to find out your inner secret color, and so much more. The most iconic feature has to be it’s ballpits, every color factory location from Texas to California has featured one, all with their own unique color and design The Soho location in NYC is special in its own way, as the baby blue sea of balls makes you feel like you’re cruising through the ocean all in the comfort of the city.
Nothing is more special than the holidays in NYC, and The Color Factory was decked out for the occasion. Full of trees, lights and festivity, the already exciting rooms featured a warm sense of holiday cheer. The Factory was transformed for the holiday season, everything down to their iconic color pallets had been changed for a new immersive experience. The holidays are the most colorful time of year, so it only makes sense for the most colorful place in the city to match.
The Confetti Room
My first visit to the factory was in the summer of 2019, and I was surprised at just how much time and dedication went into transforming the place for this magical time of year. A room that had previously held complimentary beach balls now was covered from floor to ceiling in loose confetti and colorful Christmas trees. There were cameras all over the ceilings to create adorable videos, and we had the best time throwing confetti around the bright colorful room
Even the iconic ballpit got its own holiday makeover. Guests can find the cutest candy cane and peppermint pool floats hanging around, amazing for pictures and lazing around alike. It’s the ideal place to sit and bask in the holiday cheer.
Peppermint Floats In The Ballpit
The Ball Pit also features a very special limited edition appearance from Santa Claus, and you know he reps the iconic color pallet as well. Santa appearances will begin on December 17th.
In addition to all of the aesthetics and fun, the holidays are a time of giving and The Color Factory does their part. they are partnering with NYC-based nonprofit Art Start, an organization dedicated to nurturing the voices, hearts, and minds of historically marginalized youth through art. In the museum, you’ll find an on-site gifting wall. The wall invites guests to donate varying amounts of money to help purchase gifts for students of the arts. Guests can send art students gifts such as art supply bags, sketch pads, and even MetroCards to travel to and from workshops. It truly stresses the importance of art in our lives.
You can experience the magic of The Color Factory’s immersive colorful life holiday exhibit yourself! See it from December 1st to the 24th, find tickets here!