Hallmark transformed Hudson Yard’s bustling and busy plaza into a winter wonderland, for its first bus tour, which was fittingly called Jingle Stop, in anticipation of its Countdown to Christmas.
The actors of the notoriously wholesome, and family oriented holiday films, cheerfully got on board (literally), to bring the Christmas spirit to their fans in the cities of D.C., Philly and New York. Fans enjoyed complimentary hot chocolate, candy canes, tree shaped cookie cutters, an adorable photo opportunity featuring a cozy fireplace, and bright red Santa hats.
The fans’ anticipation to see their favorite actors grew throughout the evening, and soon enough, the actors arrived in two decorated buses. The crowd screamed out of excitement as the actors walked onto the red carpet and waved to fans. During my fun time on the carpet, I asked my favorite question to each actor, which was, “what are your favorite Christmas traditions?” I loved the actors’ personalized responses, which ranged from enjoying doing nothing, to hiding Elf on the Shelf in creative spots for their kids. The actors radiated holiday cheer and an enthusiasm towards their fans, that was palpable as I continued interviewing them.
After the red carpet concluded, the actors, who included Jonathan Bennett, and Tamera Mowry-Housley, joined forces on stage in front of an eager crowd, and fittingly played fun holiday games, such as a snowball fight with fake snowballs, finding matching socks in a plethora of unmatched ones, and a gift wrapped contest. The wonderful evening brought small town feels to a big city such as the Big Apple, and as a huge Hallmark enthusiast myself, I had a ball alongside fellow fans, and I certainly look forward to watching all the Countdown to Christmas movies!
