In an exclusive excerpt from 'Doctor Strange: Dimension War,' Stephen Strange finds himself trapped in Baron Mordo's wicked spell, as author James Lovegrove discusses the novel's adaptation of the original comics, capturing the essence of Steve Ditko's artwork in words, and the enduring appeal of the iconic character. The novel, set for release on March 26, 2024, brings to life the origin and earliest adventures of Doctor Strange in a new, cohesive prose narrative, showcasing his evolution from a vain egoist to Earth's defender against magical threats.
The 118th National Western Stock Show kicked off with its traditional parade in Denver, featuring 30 longhorn cattle leading a procession that included horses, chickens, bunnies, a goat, pack of dogs, and around 350 horses. Participants like the Cowgirls Forever group, adorned in Western wear and riding in horse-drawn carriages, embraced the chilly weather to maintain the parade's Western heritage. Seven-year-old Harper Michalski stood out as a young cowgirl riding without a leader for the first time, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the event.
The 135th Rose Parade, themed “Celebrating a World of Music: The Universal Language,” took place in Pasadena on New Year's Day 2024, drawing spectators who camped out overnight to enjoy the petal-packed floats and performances. Despite the early morning chill, the event was filled with anticipation and a sense of community, with attendees enjoying local food and the festive atmosphere. Security was heightened due to potential protests, but the focus remained on the celebration of music and the hope for a peaceful event. Parade organizers aimed for a return to pre-pandemic attendance levels, and the day was marked by a sense of tradition and excitement as the community came together to ring in the new year.
The 2024 Mummers Parade brought vibrant displays to Philadelphia as various divisions, including Fancy, Comic, and String Bands, paraded through Center City, while Fancy Brigades showcased their performances inside the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The event, captured by staff photographer Jose F. Moreno, highlighted a cherished Philly tradition.
New Year's Day was celebrated globally with iconic events such as the ball drop in Times Square, New York, and a spectacular fireworks display over the Sydney Harbor Bridge, witnessed by over a million people. These festivities mark the beginning of the new year with joy and excitement around the world.
Across the United States, various cities celebrate New Year's Eve with unique traditions beyond the iconic Times Square ball drop. In Havre de Grace, Maryland, a duck decoy descends, while Mt. Olive, North Carolina, lowers a giant pickle, courtesy of the local pickle company. Mobile, Alabama, rings in the new year with a giant electronic MoonPie, and Flagstaff, Arizona, drops a metallic pinecone. Temecula, California, lowers oversized grapes, and Seattle, Washington, launches fireworks from the Space Needle. These diverse celebrations reflect local culture and history, drawing thousands of spectators and adding regional flair to the nationwide festivities.
The Times Square New Year's Eve ball drop is a tradition with over a century of history, originating from timekeeping practices for sailors. The event replaced fireworks due to a ban in 1907 and has only been paused during WWII. The modern ball is a hefty 11,875 lbs and is covered with meaningful Waterford Crystal triangles. Post-celebration cleanup is a massive task, with 200 sanitation workers clearing over 60 tons of trash. Revelers can submit wishes to be dropped as confetti, and some pay thousands for a restaurant view of the event. Security is heightened this year due to recent threats, with extensive measures including 1,200 cameras and a large police presence.
The Dancing Bears Festival, a centuries-old tradition in northeastern Romania, celebrates the end of the year with hundreds of participants donning bear skins and dancing to the rhythm of drums to ward off evil spirits. The festival, which peaks on December 30 in Comanesti, attracts tourists worldwide and is a testament to the region's cultural heritage, where the bear is a spirit animal. Despite the challenges of maintaining the tradition, including the weight and cost of the bear skins, locals are committed to preserving this unique aspect of their history.
Marvel Studios' Loki Season 2 has partnered with McDonald's for a promotional event, allowing fans to experience a 1980s McDonald's restaurant. The event includes trying the As Featured In Meal, featuring menu items that have appeared in various films, TV shows, and music, as well as exploring props from the upcoming season. Visitors can also enjoy an augmented reality feature on Snapchat and experience 80s pricing on select McDonald's items. The event takes place in Brooklyn, New York, and is open to the public from August 30 to September 1. Loki Season 2 premieres on October 6, 2023.
"Rogers: The Musical" is set to debut at Disney California Adventure Park on June 30 as part of the Disney100 Celebration. The approximately 30-minute show tells the story of Steve Rogers (aka Captain America) and features a talented cast of singers and dancers, including Peggy Carter, Nick Fury, and select members of the Avengers. The musical will showcase new songs as well as fan-favorite tunes from the Marvel universe. The production will transform the Hyperion Theater stage with a combination of scenery, set pieces, and a large video screen. Limited-time themed food and beverages will be available throughout the park.
Marvel has been nominated for four awards and received three honoree award acknowledgements in the 27th Annual Webby Awards. Marvel.com, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever social content, Marvel's Midnight Suns trailer, and MARVEL Strike Force game have been nominated. Scarlet Witch's Daily Routine, Marvel’s Squirrel Girl: The Unbeatable Radio Show, and Marvel's Wastelanders: Black Widow have been honored. Voting is open until April 20th.
