NATIONAL: MeetingPlay and Aventri have joined forces to create Meetinglay + Aventri (MPA) University, an event education platform designed to be a hub for planners and producers alike. A free, six-week-long course, titled “The Hybrid Master Class,” is kicking off on Feb. 24 and will feature bite-sized webinars from industry experts. Event professionals knowledgeable in technology trends, content creation and actionable marketing will also offer their expertise throughout the course.
CHICAGO: Taste America, presented by Capital One, is a nationwide initiative created by the James Beard Foundation to bring together chefs and diners to support the local restaurants rebuilding a more sustainable and equitable industry. The March 15 dinner will be an intimate gathering hosted by chef Cedric Harden of River Roast and chef Darnell Reed of Luella’s Southern Kitchen, and they will prepare a multicourse menu that reflects their signature styles. Tickets are on sale now.
LOS ANGELES: Mardi Gras returns to the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles with its 32nd annual celebration. The event, which will be held from Feb. 26-27 and on March 1, will have free entertainment and activities for children. Throughout the celebration, the Gumbo Pot’s West Patio location will be serving its down-home Cajun cooking, including jambalaya, gumbo and po boys.
NEW YORK: The National Board of Review Annual Awards Gala will be held on March 15 on Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. The National Board of Review’s awards celebrate the art of cinema, with categories that include best picture, best director, best actor and actress, best original and adapted screenplay, breakthrough performance and directorial debut, as well as its signature honors: the freedom of expression award and outstanding achievement in cinematography.
WASHINGTON, DC: The National Cherry Blossom Festival is returning to D.C. March 20 to April 17 in partnership with select Hilton properties. Participating Hilton hotels will offer special Cherry Blossom packages, including complimentary cocktails, food and beverage credits, and many more perks, gifts and discounts. The festival includes four weeks of programming that celebrates traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty and community spirit.
