Year: 2024

Sadly for Lil Reese fans, the “All That Haten” rapper has been forced to take a hiatus from music. According to recent reports, Lil Reese’s ongoing domestic dispute case involving his ex-girlfriend Kimani has ended with him behind bar.

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice database (viewable here) lists Lil Reese (real name Tavares Taylor) as an inmate at the Garza West facility. According to the system, Taylor was sentenced to five years in prison for aggravated assault of a family or household member. Taylor’s alleged victim is Kimani, whom he shares a young daughter (Kai’ri) with.

Back in September, Taylor was accused of punching and strangling Kimani inside popular Houston nightclub, The Pinkhouse, which resulted in a warrant for his arrest. However, according to Taylor’s online file, the offense date for his current charge is marked as March 9, 2022.

Shortly after news of Taylor’s detainment, police body camera footage (viewable here) from June was leaked online that highlighted tension between the former couple. Fans began to flood Kimani’s Instagram comment comment with harassing messages.

In her Instagram Stories, she addressed the backlash, writing: “That video that don’t even show 5% of the sh*t that went on in that house! So, get y’all dirty, broke ass out of my comments, If you think he only went to jail for that weak ass police call, you slow.” she wrote.

Lil Reese’s release date is currently scheduled for February 6, 2029. But, he will become eligible for parole as early as August 8, 2026.

Frank Ocean fans are yearning for new music. The “Novacane” singer’s base is so desperate for some original work that one fan page kicked off a rumor of his return.

Over on X (formerly Twitter), a fan page Frank Ocean claimed that the musician was supposed to make a surprise appearance on SZA’s long-awaited SOS Deluxe: Lana album. But after the body of work was available on streaming, no vocals from Frank were to be found. Then the page alleged that SZA removed Frank Ocean’s verse “at the last minute.”

Well, in a now-deleted post, SZA chimed in to shut down the viral rumor. “LMAO now why would you even make this up,” she wrote. “Ur insane… it never existed… and don’t ever play on Frank’s name like that EVAAAA.”

Prior to SZA’s denial, users online were gathering their pitchforks and flood her comment section demanding answers. But with SZA clearing the air, the potential online firestorm was averted.

Back in July, Frank Ocean teased that he returned to the studio with an endearing selfie. However, the fruit of that creative session has yet to be put out into the world. So, Frank Ocean fans are going to need to hold out a little longer.

SOS Deluxe: Lana is out now via Top Dawg Entertainment/RCA Records. You can listen to it here.

It’s Monday, which means it’s time for the Crumbl Cookie Report! This is going to be a tough week for Crumbl fans, as the cookie makers are reducing hours for Christmas Eve and will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday. That leaves just four days to snag one of these cookies! Having said that, you probably know someone in your life whose day will be made by finding some Crumbl under the tree (or you know, in the fridge with a bow on the box), or, you may be hitting up Crumbl for the first time after receiving a gift card over the holidays — no matter scenario best describes you, you’re going to need some guidance on the best of the best at Crumbl this week.

That is where we come in! We picked up all eight cookies, tasted them, and ranked them from least to most essential to help save you some cash. Here is this week’s ranking! Happy holidays.

8. Peppermint Cupcake

Thoughts & Tasting Notes:

A couple of weeks back Crumbl dropped a Jimmy Fallon-branded (random) brownie that was essentially this cookie, but in brownie form, and we feel about this one the same way we feel about that one. Which is to say, this cookie is middling at best.

The December holiday season desperately wants a signature flavor like Autumn’s pumpkin spice, but peppermint just isn’t it! This cookie comes across a bit like a candy cane (it even has candy cane pieces on it, yay?), which sure, looks great, but who actually enjoys candy canes? It’s like riding hard for candy corn.

The only saving grace of this cookie is that the peppermint cream cheese sits atop a chocolate cookie, but no amount of chocolate can save this minty mess.

The Bottom Line:

Festive as it is, this is easily the week’s least essential cookie.

7. No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake

Thoughts & Tasting Notes:

Lately, Crumbl has been churning out cheesecake after cheesecake and frankly, we think its getting kind of stale. There isn’t much new or different about this week’s No-Bake Raspberry Cheesecake that wasn’t already given to us with last week’s White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake. Actually, we think that cheesecake is far superior!

This one just came across as boring in flavor. It’s very tangy and tart, but we would’ve liked to see a flavor that contrasted that bright tartness, like some chocolate drizzle.

The Bottom Line:

With the rate that Crumbl is dropping cheesecakes, we say skip this one unless you’re a hardcore Raspberry fan.

6. Salted Caramel Pretzel Pie

Thoughts & Tasting Notes:

I wanted to like this one more, but as eye-catching as it looks, I think the build here is pure style over substance. The Salted Caramel Pretzel Pie is built on a sweet and toasty buttery cookie base, which pairs nicely with the salty pretzel pieces dotting the rim (and atop the buttercream). The cookie is topped with a thick layer of caramel mouse and a scoop of buttercream, but nothing on this cookie is evenly distributed, and that’s what holds it back from being truly great.

Every bite of this cookie is different, and not in a good way that is fun to explore. Certain bites fall flat, while others are a nice mix of salty, toasty, and buttery flavors.

The Bottom Line:

An eye-catching but ultimately flawed cookie.

5. Peanut Butter Munch

Thoughts & Tasting Notes:

Has Crumbl collaborated with Ice Spice yet? Because this Peanut Butter Munch cookie is giving us Ice Spice vibes, so we fully support her swooping in, adding an ingredient to the top or two, and claiming it as her own.

This cookie features a toasty and buttery peanut butter base topped with milk chocolate, peanut-butter-coated chex cereal caked in powdered sugar, and a dusting of powdered sugar across the whole of the cookie. It’s great! A nice mix of peanut butter, chocolate, and powdered sugar. It tastes a bit like an elevated Reese’s Peanut Butter cup.

The Bottom Line:

One of Crumbl’s better peanut butter cookies.

4. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk

Thoughts & Tasting Notes:

It is one of my all-time favorite cookies! It has a perfect balance of butter and brown sugar flavor with an abundance of semi-sweet chocolate chips both in and atop the cookie with a gentle sprinkle of sea salt, which adds complexity to each bite.

The Semi-Sweet just isn’t a reason to go to Crumbl considering it’s on the menu every other week. So we’re placing this cookie right in the middle of the list.

The Bottom Line:

If it’s your first time at Crumbl, absolutely get this cookie. If you’ve been here before, well, you know the drill!

3. Gingersnap

Thoughts & Tasting Notes:

Best served warm, the Gingersnap is a classic cookie build that features rich earthy molasses and brown sugar flavors, cinnamon, and a whole lot of ginger. To help offset the kind of dark, and earthy sweetness that dominates this cookie, we get a heavy coating of sugar crystals, which add some lighter sweetness and also add a lot of texture to each bite.

The Bottom Line:

It’s a delicious rendition of a classic cookie. If you love gingersnaps (and we do) this may be the best one you ever have.

2. Chocolate Cake

Thoughts & Tasting Notes:

There isn’t a lot going on here, it’s two layers of rich and moist chocolate cake glued together with a semi-sweet chocolate ganache and topped with airy fudge. It’s a triple dose of chocolate, providing a rich and luxurious flavor that is impossible to deny.

It’s not going to blow your mind, but it’s a damn good chocolate cake. Hard to complain here.

The Bottom Line:

Rich, decadent, and delicious. A must for hardcore chocolate fans.

1. Cinnamon Roll

Thoughts & Tasting Notes:

Lately I’ve been giving a lot of cinnamon cookies the top spot in our weekly Crumbl rankings, and you know what? I stand by that. Cinnamon is a perfect dessert ingredient, and Crumbl has been implementing the ingredients excellently across multiple desserts. We can’t say the same for raspberry and peanut butter though.

Another cookie that is ideally served warm, the Cinnamon Roll features a vanilla sugar cookie topped with a thick layer of cinnamon and a swirl of vanilla cream cheese frosting. It’s a lot like biting into a cinnamon roll, but with the crunchy and chewy texture you expect from a cookie. The cinnamon is spicy and complex, while the vanilla is creamy and slightly floral.

The Bottom Line:

Yet again, we’re giving a cinnamon cookie the top spot here. The Cinnamon Roll is not just the best Crumbl cookie of the week, it’s an essential flavor by the brand.

Find your nearest Crumbl here.

It’s easier than ever to travel to one of the happiest countries in the world thanks to direct flights from New York City to Gothenburg, Sweden on SAS for as low as $600 roundtrip. After experiencing Sweden’s second-largest city, grab a rental car and head two hours northwest to West Sweden for a memorable stay at Swedish Country Living. The hermitage is encircled by nature and is near the summer country house of the proprietors, husband-and-wife duo David and Marie Naraine.

The eco-friendly property doesn’t offer WiFi. You can live a few days without the internet, we promise. You’ll truly be able to unplug — not just from your smartphone but electricity too. Don’t worry, the cabins are equipped with solar-powered lights and cozy fireplaces. You’ll be surrounded by nature and won’t miss aimlessly scrolling on TikTok.

I spent a blissful overnight stay at the waterfront respite and loved seeping in wellness. Read my full review below.

WHY IT’S AWESOME

Tucked along the shores of Sweden’s largest lake, Vänern Vänern, Swedish Country Living is set in a rural landscape surrounded by lush forests in the Dasland countryside. The peaceful organic enclave is truly off-the-grid, allowing guests to soak up a wholesome nature experience.

As there are only a few guest rooms it’s likely you may be the only visitor on-site, in addition to the grazing farm animals that roam freely feeding on grass to support the regenerative farming technique of concentrated grazing pressure to improve the soil’s defense against dehydration or flooding. The entire farm is certified organic by KRAV, a regional organization certification for animal health and toxic-free farming. The sheep manure is used to fertilize a veggie patch.

Beyond furry friends, the community toilets have a urine separation system to preserve urine which is diluted and used on the farm. Compost from feces is upcycled for soil and food waste is fed to the farm animals. The cabin’s walls are insulated with sheep wool which is fireproof and soundproof.

IN HOUSE FOOD + DRINK

When I first heard that Swedish Country Living doesn’t have an on-site restaurant but instead boasts an organic permaculture vegetable garden featuring some rare hyperlocal heirloom species I was stoked — until I learned that I had to cook my own dinner. I was worried about how I’d whip up a delicious meal without wifi to search for recipes. Despite considering myself a decent home cook, I had no idea what ingredients, herbs, and spices would be available.

Not to fret, David happily strolled through the garden with me showing me which produce was ready to harvest, and as we walked down to the river to pick wild herbs that were bursting with flavor he gave me tips for dishes I could make in the fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Meat-based eaters can choose to grill lamb from the farm or add an egg to their dishes from the property’s free-grazing muscovy ducks or hens.

Breakfast is prepared for you and served in the beautiful Orangery – a sunroom that serves as a living garden for tomato vines. Non-alcoholic drinks are included. Alcohol isn’t available for purchase so be sure to bring your own supply of wine, beer, or booze.

With advance notice Swedish Country Living was graciously able to accommodate my dietary restrictions. I’m vegan and gluten-free due to preferences and allergies. My food restrictions weren’t an issue at all, but unfortunately, I didn’t get to use the outdoor wood-fired pizza oven.

AMENITIES

The idea is not to do much when you’re at Swedish Country Living. Want to sleep in? Go for it. Early riser? You’ll love the serene silence and morning dew that sweeps the countryside as the first rays of sunlight hit the landscape. Just don’t miss a soak in the outdoor bathtub which is especially magical at sunset and into the evening under the stars.

Partake in the Scandi tradition of breaking a sweat in a sauna followed by taking a dip in the cool water of the river. The infrared sauna is small and if there are other guests, particularly Scandinavians, be prepared that it’s common to be nude in a sauna. Go with the tradition or bring a towel from your room.

Amenities:

• Floating fireplaces
• Onsite herb garden
• Candle lighting
• Included breakfast
• Complimentary kayaks and canoes
• Outdoor bathtub
• Infrared sauna
• River swimming

ROOM TYPES

The architect-designed accommodation features an array of different styled cabins including an A-frame, a slate house, and a hermitage house. All were built with sustainable locally sourced recycled materials such as wood from the surrounding forest and insulation from the on-site sheep’s wool. There’s no electricity so solar-powered lights are utilized in the room and fireplaces provide warmth. All the guest houses have an outdoor seating area with a fireplace perfect for stargazing into the dark sky or enjoying an early cup of French press coffee in the morning.

The Hermitage house was the first to be built. The OG accommodation is a tiny house for two forest nymphs, I mean travelers. But really, it looks like it has grown right out of the forest due to the living roof with Orpine and wild strawberries that attract local birds. The guest houses appear rustic from the outside but the interior decoration fully embodies the iconic Scandi sleek style which isn’t surprising as the owners used to helm their own fashion company and have a well-trained eye for design.

I stayed in the surprisingly spacious two-story A-frame Hermitage Cabin with an interior lined with birch and aspen wood and a space-defying floating fireplace. The aptly named Slate House Hermitage is covered in 4,000 re-used tile slates from the 1800s and looks like something out of a fairytale. It’s full of soft natural light from seven massive windows that provide vistas of the eco oasis it’s perched upon.

BEST THING TO DO WITHIN A 15-MINUTE WALK

You don’t have to venture off-site to be surrounded by nature. Take complimentary kayaks or canoes out on the river and go around the nearby Björkön Island. The trip takes about an hour and you’ll glide past the remains of a shipyard from the 1700s and the Swedish Pavilion from the 1189 World Exhibition in Paris. There are also many nearby nature trails to be enjoyed. Head out on foot for rural hikes or borrow a complimentary bicycle.

THE BEST THING TO DO/EAT/DRINK WITHIN AN HOURS DRIVE

If you’ve rented a car you can break up your days at Swedish Country Living by visiting these nearby attractions.

• The Pilgrim Path — This long-distance scenic wilderness trail is the best way to experience the serenity of the area. Along the path, you’ll come across vistas of lakes and the vast woodlands. Follow the Crown Princess Victoria’s footsteps and pass the manor house in Upperud, where Napoleon Bonaparte’s niece lived in 1818, and then wander to the Aqueduct in Håverud.
• Not Quite — Experience quirky art at this former warehouse which is now a cultural center complete with art museums, a gallery, a craft shop, a café, and a bistro. Check the calendar of events to find art exhibitions, concerts, guided tours, or workshops offered during your visit.
• Sörknatten Nature Reserve — Explore the Knattarna Mountains for the day or follow the footpath to an epic view of the ancient mountain range.

BED GAME

The sleeping quarters in the A-frame Hermitage Cabin were upstairs in a lofted bed. This struck my fancy as I’ve always romanticized the idea of living in a lofted apartment, but unlike tiny NYC apartments, this loft was spacious and even someone much taller than my 5’4″ could comfortably sleep up there. As the bed is placed in the upper bit of the top of the A-frame the walls slant inwards so getting out of bed can be a bit of a hazard as it’s easy to knock your head on the wall. The bed itself was ultra luxurious with super soft bedding and plump pillows.

Rating: 7/10

SEXINESS FACTOR

While I loved staying here alone and lapping up the serene silence, I’d jump at the chance to visit again with a partner. What’s sexier than glamping, cuddling by the fireplace, and holding hands as you leap into a river together? The remote location feels very secluded and the cabins are spaced far apart to foster plenty of privacy.

Rating: 8/10

THE VIEWS & PICS SPOTS

There aren’t Instagram-worthy vignettes set up purely for the purpose of snapping pictures, nature simply shows off here and is deeply picturesque. From the fire pit, the outdoor tub, the vibrant garden, to the rustic exterior of the cabins there are many spots sprinkled throughout the property to capture memorable moments from your vacation.

Rating: 9/10

BEST SEASON TO VISIT

All seasons have their charm in the countryside. Swedish Country Living welcomes guests from April-October. You can’t stay here during the depth of winter. In Spring, the property is surrounded by wildflowers. If you want to enjoy water activities, it’s best to visit in the summertime — the water never gets very hot but is warm enough for swimming and going out on kayaks and canoes. If you want to try foraging wild mushrooms, visit in the fall when you can enjoy the leaves changing colors as you collect fungi.

IF I HAD TO COMPLAIN ABOUT ONE THING

I don’t love the idea of cooking on vacation. I’m a home cook but was a bit puzzled about what to prepare for my dinner without using the internet to find recipes.

I prefer a private en-suite bathroom. There’s nothing wrong with the restrooms other than that they’re not attached to the room. They’re clean, modern, and equipped with local eco-friendly products, but walking to the bathroom made the trip feel like a grownup camp rather than a glamping site.

BOOK HERE

Packages are all-inclusive and start at $620 per night for two guests. The hermitage has special offers for longer stays.

The marquee day on the NBA’s regular season calendar is finally here. For years, the league has made Christmas Day its biggest showcase of the year, and even as the NFL continues to increase its presence on Dec. 25, the NBA does what it can to put a number of marquee games on the calendar.

This year, through essentially no fault of the league’s own, the Christmas slate isn’t quite as tasty as it looked like it was going to be back when it was announced. Due to injuries, some surprisingly poor performances this year, and in the case of the Philadelphia 76ers both of those things, the NBA has a calendar packed with games that are good, but not showdowns between a pair of elite squads at the top of the standings.

The other side of this: With maybe one exception, none of these games should be outright bad. Each one is compelling in one way or another, and today, we wanted to look at what the NBA has in store for Christmas Day by ranking the games from worst to best.

5. Philadelphia 76ers at Boston Celtics (5 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN)

The general [gestures at everything] of this Sixers season has meant this game went from a matchup of two Eastern Conference contenders to a battle between a team scratching and clawing to make the Play-In and the defending champions. Joel Embiid and Paul George are both playing, which helps a lot in adding some excitement to this, but the stakes in this one are minimal. Maybe Philly can find its footing as the year goes on and this can turn into a very exciting first-round series, and who knows what can happen in a one-off, but with how well the Celtics are playing and how far the Sixers have to go, this game doesn’t have as much buzz as it did when the schedule makers put it all together. Still, getting to watch Jayson Tatum — who has been out of his mind this season — on a national stage should be a blast.

4. Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns (10:30 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN)

These two teams have some recent playoff history, with each team picking up a series win over the other en route to a Finals appearance (with Denver going on to win the title). But while there’s a bit of history there, these are two teams that are not firing on all cylinders at the moment, with Devin Booker’s status in question for the Suns as he deals with a groin injury, taking a bit of the intrigue out of the Christmas nightcap. Still, Nikola Jokic is playing at an insanely high level this season and is a threat to win his fourth MVP, while the Suns have been, unsurprisingly, a much better team with Kevin Durant in the lineup. As long as those two are going, there’s a chance for some fireworks and fun, and they’ll be plenty familiar with each other as their Christmas meeting will be their second game in a row facing each other.

3. Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors (8:00 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN)

Who knows how many more LeBron vs. Steph games we’ll get, which is reason enough to tune in, but from a team perspective, these are two teams dragging their feet a bit in the crowded West Playoff/Play-In race. Both teams seem to be desperately in need of roster upgrades, with the Warriors much better positioned to make such a move, provided they’re willing to finally part with their best assets. The Lakers, meanwhile, are in the same position we’ve seen them in since 2021, loitering around the top of the Play-In/bottom of the Playoff seeds but lacking the depth of talent to really feel like a title threat. While these are not two of the league’s elite teams, they are right next to each other in the standings and, until a move gets made by either, feel pretty evenly matched. That could yield an exciting game, even if it may not have the league-wide stakes of the LeBron vs. Steph showdowns of old.

2. San Antonio Spurs at New York Knicks (12:00 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN)

The NBA stuck its neck out a bit by scheduling this matchup before knowing whether the Spurs would really take a big step forward this season, but it looks like this will be an extremely fun opener to the Christmas slate. The Knicks have been an offensive juggernaut with the addition of Karl-Anthony Towns (even if a bit leakier than usual on defense), and every game with New York has the potential to be a shootout. The Spurs have been extremely solid this year with the additions of veterans Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes, with Victor Wembanyama continuing to live up to the hype as a budding superstar in the league, leading the team in just about every category other than assists (where the Point God continues to be masterful). The Spurs will need to have their A-game offensively in this one to keep pace with New York (who will, in turn, have to navigate the league’s best shot-blocker), but getting to see Wemby in the Christmas spotlight in the Garden should be very fun.

1. Minnesota Timberwolves at Dallas Mavericks (2:30 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN)

While the Wolves have struggled this year in the aftermath of the Karl-Anthony Towns trade, this is still a Western Conference Finals rematch between two teams that have aspirations of making it back there this year — of course, Dallas goes into Christmas Day in a much better position to do that. So, why is this so high? Easy: Both of these teams are led by superstars who are spectacular at playing their best ball on the biggest stage, and during the regular season, there is no bigger stage than Christmas Day. We fully expect Luka Doncic and Anthony Edwards to bring their very best, and while we’re more confident that Luka will get more help, Ant is good enough to keep the Wolves in it. Can they get enough from Julius Randle, Naz Reid, and co.? Or will Doncic — along with Kyrie Irving and the rest of his supporting cast — be able to score enough against a defense that is once again among the league’s elite.

It looks like Miley Cyrus is about to have a big year in 2025.

In a new post shared on social media today (December 23), Cyrus wrote:

“HAPPY HOLIDAYS & NEW YEAR!

It’s bittersweet saying goodbye to a year that has been so good to me, but I am looking forward to starting over again. This is one of my favorite parts of not just the creative process but the way life has chosen to teach me.

In everything I do I like to go ALL the way. Give it ALL I’ve got. ALL for it to come to an end, move on and start anew. At times it can be a heartbreaking process but I’ve always known the pieces to come back together and create something beautiful.

Thank you to everyone who has been apart of making this year so special.

Sincerely, Miley.”

Some fans have noticed that Cyrus sneakily included in her post what appears to be the album title: A November feature in Harper’s Bazaar noted the project was set to be titled Something Beautiful. Cyrus said of the project, a visual album, “It’s a concept album that’s an attempt to medicate somewhat of a sick culture through music. […] It was inspired by Pink Floyd’s The Wall. […] My idea was making The Wall, but with a better wardrobe and more glamorous and filled with pop culture.”

There are two NFL games on Christmas this year, and both have connections to mega-famous pop stars. First, there’s Kansas City Chiefs vs. Pittsburgh Steelers, although since it’s an away game for Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, & Co.; Taylor Swift isn’t expected to be attendance. In the later contest, Beyoncé will be in Houston to watch her hometown Texans face the Baltimore Ravens since she’s performing during the halftime show.

The guests for “A Cowboy Carter Christmas” are still a mystery, but we do know the details on how to watch Beyoncé’s only public performance in 2024.

How To Watch Beyoncé’s Halftime Show

The easiest way is the simplest: Netflix. The game between the playoff contenders begins at 4:30 p.m. ET, so if you only care about Beyoncé, start streaming around 6 p.m. Both games will also air on broadcast TV in the competing teams’ cities and be available on mobile devices in the US with NFL+.

If you can’t tune in live, however, you better act quickly: Variety reports that “under Netflix’s agreement with the NFL, in the U.S., the two Christmas games expire three hours after the livestream ends.” In other words, the Texans vs. Ravens game — including Beyoncé’s performance — will no longer be available on Netflix beginning around 11 p.m. ET or so.

You can learn more here.

Apple TV+ has been going in hard on sci-fi for the future, but the tech giant’s streaming service is not neglecting the Dad TV realm. Those successes thus far include rapid-fire updates to Slow Horses and a potential continuation of Ted Lasso, but a recently added series received the green light for more, too. That would be Bad Monkey starring Vince Vaughn in Bill Lawrence’s series adaptation of the Carl Hiassen novel.

Since dads (and the people who love them) cannot resist a fast-talking Vince in a role that feels retroactively tailor made for him, the call did not take long for more of Yancy’s adventures, but that brings up a necessary question for anybody who wants to “read ahead” while waiting for the second season.

What Book Will Bad Monkey Season 2 Be Based On?

Well, that’s a mystery, but at least there’s confirmation of what book the series will not tackle next. According to Variety, the Hiassen-penned Bad Monkey sequel novel, Razor Girl, will not materialize next onscreen: “[A]ccording to an individual with knowledge of the production, Season 2 will not be based on that book.” No further hints have been dropped, but Bill Lawrence did declare, “I hope that people know that Carl Hiaasen is an idol of mine and an inspiration for me as a writer” before adding, “To get to go on telling his story with Vince Vaughn and this great cast, at least the characters who are still alive, is very exciting.”

So, will the series go off book completely? Nobody is talking yet. More changes are coming, too, as Variety recently reported that the show will no longer be filmed in the Florida Keys. California tax incentives (to the tune of $20.6 million for the second season) have wooed the show to Los Angeles, but neither Apple TV+ nor Bill Lawrence have revealed whether the story will also be based in LA, or if they will somehow fake a Florida location. What isn’t changing is that Vaughn will still portray Andrew Yancy, which should be enough to keep the Bad Monkey audience tuning in for more.

We’re in the time of year when the Billboard Hot 100 chart is ruled by Christmas songs. Specifically, there’s Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” and then a bunch of hits from the ’50s and ’60s. Well, some modern classics are finally starting to emerge.

On the latest Hot 100 chart (dated December 28, so it’s the final one of the year), Carey is No. 1 for a 17th week, which puts the song in third place on the all-time list of the most weeks spent at No. 1, behind Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus’ “Old Town Road” and Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”

But, the No. 9 and 10 spots are notable this week, as they mark the first time a pair of more modern holiday classics have hit the top 10: At 9 is Ariana Grande’s “Santa Tell Me” and at 10 is Kelly Clarkson’s “Underneath The Tree.” Both tracks peaked at No. 11 during the 2023-2024 holiday season. Grande’s song is now the newest holiday recording to ever hit the top 10 (it was released in 2014) and Clarkson’s is the second-newest (2013). The previous record-holder was Kenny G’s 1999 release of “Auld Lang Syne,” which peaked at No. 7 during the 1999-2000 holiday season.

Meanwhile, the only non-holiday song left in the top 10 this week is Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ “Die With A Smile,” at No. 6.

2024 is heading out, and 2025 is sliding in hot—so why not send off the year with a proper farewell? Sure, the whole “new year, new you” thing might make you roll your eyes so hard you see 2022 again, but hey, there’s something magical about starting fresh.

This past year brought the heat—literally and figuratively. From the euphoric vibes at ULTRA to the snow-covered stages of Rise Music Festival, the coastal grooves at Defected Croatia, and the unmatched energy of the Ibiza dancefloor, 2024 was a year that knew how to party. So let’s keep the energy alive and roll into 2025 on the highest note possible.

Not sure where to be when the clock strikes midnight? Don’t sweat it. We’ve tracked down the best NYE parties and festivals so you can go out on a high note (and maybe with a little glitter in your hair). Grab your crew, your most questionable outfit, and a solid recovery plan—let’s close this year out right.

Decadence Colorado – Denver, CO: December 30th-31st

Get ready for the ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration as Global Dance and AEG team up to present the biggest indoor NYE dance music festival in the U.S.! Decadence Colorado returns this December 30th and 31st at the Colorado Convention Center, bringing an all-star lineup of performers to close out the year with a bang. This epic two-day event will unfold across two massive stages, featuring mind-blowing production, interactive art installations, a silent disco, and plenty more surprises throughout the sprawling venue. With the futuristic “Digital City” theme, the iconic Denver Convention Center will be transformed into a high-tech metropolis, where thousands of festival-goers—known as Citizens—will unite to welcome 2025 in style. Performing artists include Apashe, Black Tiger Sex Machine, Chris Lake, Elderbrook, Excision, ILLENIUM b2b Slander, REZZ, Subtronics, Zeds Dead, and more.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Forever Midnight – Los Angeles, CA: December 31st

Forever Midnight was created in 2023 as the largest New Year’s Eve celebration in the heart of Los Angeles. Returning for its second year, Forever Midnight will host LA’s biggest NYE celebration inside the massive LA Convention Center. From house and techno to underground electronic music, Forever Midnight offers a broad range of forward-thinking artists, top headliners, and local flavor that make it the ultimate destination to ring in the LA New Year.

This year, Factory 93 and Club Space are joining forces once again to host a vibrant stage, bringing a perfect blend of the East and West Coast dance music scenes. Additionally, this year marks the debut of a brand-new third stage, showcased by LA-based promoter Take It Outside. Headliners for this year’s event include Adam Beyer, Boris Brejcha, Chris Lake, Diplo, Lilly Palmer, Max Styler, Odd Mob, Tiësto, Wax Motif, and more.

“We’re delivering something truly exceptional and high-tech,” Forever Midnight Creative Director and showrunner Roustam Mirzoev told Uproxx. “The stage design is one-of-a-kind, and I’m leading a world-class team of international experts who’ve worked with artists like Dom Dolla, Hans Zimmer, Karol G, Solomun, Tiësto, and Anyma. We’re integrating a complex system of synchronized lights, lasers, and visuals. One of the highlights is our TouchDesigner audio-reactive system, which generates visuals in real time—nothing is pre-programmed. This allows the performance to feel dynamic and spontaneous, with visuals, lights, and lasers responding live to the music, highlighting the drops and accentuating the beats. We’ve also got synchronized lasers tracing LEDs, a rare and impactful show element. One of our stages is completely constructed with lights and lasers, centered around a massive disco ball in an old-school rave style, featuring a high-energy light grid. It’s all about creating an immersive, living production where every moment on the dance floor feels electric.”

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Meow Wolf Grapevine – Grapevine, TX: December 31st

Meow Wolf Grapevine’s NYE Adultiverse Party offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect with local art and tap into the transformative power of creativity—an ideal antidote to the year’s bustle. On December 31st, The Real Unreal will transform into an exclusive after-hours dreamscape, creating a one-of-a-kind interdimensional party for those 21 and older. It’s an evening designed to celebrate creativity, curiosity, and connection in ways only Meow Wolf can deliver. Guests can expect a Night Shade Burlesque performance, an exploratory interactive wonderland, exclusive VIP lounge, a kaleidoscopic toast at midnight and more.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Countdown NYE – San Bernardino, CA: December 31st

Insomniac Events will celebrate its 10th edition of Countdown NYE at San Bernardino’s NOS Event CEnter on December 31st. As the West Coast’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration, the cosmic spectacle will feature an otherworldly lineup of dnace music’s brightest stars across five stages. Attendees will be accompanied by extraterrestrial entities amidst towering art installations that reach for the astral plane and be able to explore gourmet food and drink options, VIP dance zones, and enjoy complimentary noisemakers, glow rings, confetti poppers, and champagne for a midnight toast. Headliners for this end of the year intergalactic celebration include Alesso, Chris Lake, Diplo, Jauz, Lilly Palmer, TroyBoi, Zedd, Zeds Dead, and more.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Lights All Night – Dallas, TX: December 28th-29th

Lights All Night (LAN), Texas’ longest-running electronic music festival, returns for its 14th edition with an unforgettable two-day experience. The iconic festival transforms Dallas Market Hall into a radiant playground of mesmerizing lasers, monumental LED walls, and state-of-the-art soundscapes. Expect a kaleidoscopic blend of bass, house, and techno across four stages—The Metroplex, Disco Rodeo, Lonestar, and the vibrant Watering Hole, hosted by DeBussy.

The 2024 lineup features a stellar roster of 40+ artists, including Black Tiger Sex Machine, Kaskade, Excision, Ganja White Night, Tape B, ISOxo, and more. Attendees will be immersed in jaw-dropping visuals, live art installations, and performances by local talent, VJs, and performers. The Watering Hole Stage by DeBussy stands out as a hub for Texas’ rising stars and unexpected surprises. The return of LANDON, LAN’s beloved Disco Astronaut mascot, created in celebration of LAN’s 13th year and Disco Presents’ 30th anniversary, promises even more magic.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

PROPER NYE/NYD – San Diego, CA: December 31st-January 1st

PROPER NYE/NYD will return to San Diego’s iconic Petco Park on December 31st and January 1st for a two-day, multi-stage event featuring performances from electronic music heavyweights. As southern California’s premier New Year’s Eve destination, PROPER draws top-tier talent from across the globe to the expansive grounds of Petco Park, perfectly situated in the heart of San Diego. The two-day event is spearheaded by performances from AC Slater, Boys Noize, Charlotte de Witte, DJ Tennis, Dom Dolla, Eli Brown, Eric Prydz, Green Velvet, John Summit, Mau P, and more. PROPER will also feature top-tier takeovers courtesy of Above & Beyond’s deep house imprint Anjunadeep and Lane 8’s independent record label and event series This Never Happened.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Teksupport X – New York, New York: December 27th-January 1st

New York City’s premier underground event collective Teksupport will celebrate its monumental 10-year anniversary celebration at the end of this month. The year of ‘Teksupport X’ programming kicks off the last week of December at TCE Present’s new venue, Brooklyn Storehouse, led by some of the world’s most noteworthy house and techno selectors.

12/27: Adam Beyer, Avision, Helang, Ilario Alicante b2b Dubfire, Nicole Moudaber at Brooklyn Storehouse

12/28: Gorgon City, Nora en Pure, Patrick Topping, Alan Nieves at Brooklyn Storehouse

12/29: Âme b2b Trikk, Carl Craig b2b Moodymann, Kaytranada, Mr. G (live), Vivian Wang at Brooklyn Storehouse

1/1: Hot Since 82 b2b Ben Sterling, Joseph Capriati b2b Loco Dice, Prospa b2b Mink, Rossi b2b Salome le Chat, The Fellas b2b Ice Thompson at Brooklyn Storehouse

1/1: Victor Calderone at Sony Hall

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Réveillon Carneiros – Tamandaré, Brazil: December 26th-January 2nd

The 8th edition of Réveillon Carneiros promises another unforgettable experience on the Brazilian coast. Soundtracked by top-tier electronic artists and local stars, this spiritual journey of well-being and community connection takes place at two venues in Praia dos Carneiros. Attendees will revel in world class music, food, nature, wellness and sustainability among the stunning coastal setting at Praia dos Carneiros. The large site has everything needed for a special few days of adventure, partying, wellness, food and culture.

Villa Mouton hosts wellness activities from morning until early afternoon, Mouton Beach Club has a gym and restaurant open to everyone until 3pm and then hosts epic sunset parties for those with a ticket, then follows the Night Celebrations which head to a main stage on the coast with superb headliners and different stage set designs and production each day. This year’s theme is “We Are All Special” which fosters unity among attendees while celebrating the local community.

The full lineup showcases a rich mix of both Brazilian and international talent including Adam Ten, Carlita, Damian Lazarus, Pawsa, Blond:Ish, Ahmed Spins, Antdot B2B Maz, Aline Rocha, Curol, Doozie, Eli Iwasa, Jackson, Jessica Brankka, Pedro Mendes, Vanjee, Badaro, and more.

Additionally, dining is included in the package and is curated by Buffet Arcádia, one of the most renowned caterers in the region. Guests can indulge in a wide variety of dishes, including meats, salads, fish, shrimp, finger foods, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Fresh Start – San Francisco, CA: December 31st-January 1st

Fresh Start which returns to The Midway to host San Francisco’s premiere New Year’s Block Party. Each year, hundreds of artists descend upon the corner of Michigan and Marin Streets to take over The Midway’s multiple indoor stages, plus a massive main stage built outdoors. This year features a star-studded line-up of talent across dance music including DJ Pee .Wee, Charlotte De Witt, Chris Lake, Odd Mob, ZHU, The Blessed Madonna, Cloonee, ZHU, J.Worra, Odd Mob, Austin Millz, and many more.

The Midway will undergo a complete transformation, now featuring the new 888 Garage stage—a 1,000-capacity warehouse venue just across the street. This space was host to three sold-out Portola Festival afterparties in September, and has easily become one of SF’s most buzzworthy venues. Decked out in Fresh Start’s all-new 2025 Y2K branding, The Midway will also host immersive installations, numerous food trucks, and an elevated culinary menu curated by The Midway’s Executive Chef.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Labryinto – Guanacaste, Costa Rica: December 27th-January 2nd

Labryinto returns to Guanacaste, Costa Rica for a four-day exploration of music, art, gastronomy, and wellness. Founded on the pillars of creativity, sustainability, kindness, authenticity, and wholehearted engagement, Labryinto will welcome guests to find serenity in its wellness and yoga workshops, savor the delicious local cuisine, embark on thrilling adventures, and dance to the global beats of renowned DJs among the jungle’s lush greenery.

This year’s theme “The Cosmos” will feature interactive art from global artists, immersive experiences and installations, and performances from Black Coffee, Adriatique, Carlita, Dennis Cruz, WhoMadeWho, and more.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Decadence Arizona – Phoenix, AZ: December 30th-31st

Similar to its Colorado event, Decadence Arizona will unveil an ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration for two nights on December 30th and 31st at Phoenix’s Rawhide Event Center. It’s “Art Of Indulgence” theme will feature performances by Deadmau5, Dom Dolla, Deorro, Eli & Fur, John Summit, Mau P, Sidepiece, Zeds Dead, and more.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

NEON Countdown – Bangkok, Thailand: December 30th-31st

Since 2015, Neon Countdown has been welcoming the New Year in Thailand with a kingly celebration of electronic music. Taking place at Wonder World Extreme Park, this year will offer two spectacular nights of music and raving experiences, including performances by headliners Martin Garrix, Dimitri Vegas, MRAK, Indira Paganotto, Lost Frequencies, and more.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Radiance NYE – Grayslake, IL: December 30th-31st

Situated between Milwaukee and Chicago at Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, IL, Radiance NYE will feature two days of premiere partying and raving. Ring in the new year with performances from REZZ, SVDDEN DEATH, Peekaboo, Kill Safari, and more.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Together As One – Seattle, WA: December 31st

Insomniac will touch down in Seattle to put on this one-night event to enjoy the best in electronic music at the WaMu Theater. Dom Dolla, Green Velvet, Azzecca, Prospa, Imanu, Blk., and more are slated to perform at Seattle’s biggest New Year’s Eve rave.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Bohemia Presents Defected’s 25th Anniversary NYE Party – Dubai, UAE: December 31st

Bohemia joins forces with London’s powerhouse label, Defected, for a special edition of Bohemia Presents—an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration featuring a star-studded line-up set to ignite the night. Set against the stunning backdrop of Dubai Marina and the iconic Ain Dubai, Bohemia Beach Club offers panoramic views and an elegant beachfront setting to ring in 2025 with pure house magic, beachfront glamour, and breathtaking firework displays.

Headlining the night is Grammy-winning house legend Roger Sanchez, renowned for iconic tracks like ‘Another Chance’ and his high-energy performances, which have shaped dance music for decades. Joining him are DJ and producer Monki, The Kimono Bros with their signature blend of eclectic house and disco, and Fabrice, who completes the line-up with his genre-defying beats.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

Music On @ Pacha – Ibiza, Spain: December 31st

Following an extraordinary summer during which Music On reigned supreme over Ibiza’s nightlife, the world-renowned Pacha Ibiza is poised to welcome back Marco Carola’s distinctive musical experience for an electrifying New Year’s Eve. On New Year’s Eve, music aficionados from across the globe will unite beneath the iconic twin cherries for an unforgettable night of pulsating beats and exhilarating performances, bidding farewell to 2024 at the year’s most highly anticipated celebration. At the heart of the festivities, Marco Carola will command the Pacha Ibiza dancefloor with his signature fusion of house and techno, radiating an unparalleled energy that is sure to captivate all in attendance.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

SILO – Dallas, TX: December 27th-31st

The party keeps going all week at SILO Dallas, with performances from four internationally acclaimed artists. SILO, named ‘Best New Nightlife Venue’ by Texas Time Out’s 2024 Awards. New Year’s week lineup includes:

• Charlotte de Witte (12/27): The techno titan will deliver her high-energy performance.
• John Digweed (12/28): A journey into the heart of progressive house.
• Diplo (12/30): Genre-defying and endlessly dynamic, Diplo takes over the decks.
• Dombresky (12/31): Ring in the New Year with infectious house grooves.

Since opening in September, SILO has hosted sold-out shows from acts like Tiesto, RL Grime, Fisher, Kaskade and Illenium. With a 3000+ capacity, SILO features cutting-edge sound with over 100,000 watts of D&B sound and acoustical innovations, a 40-foot stage, and a 2mm video wall.

Tickets and additional information can be found here.

AREA15 NYE Masquerade – Las Vegas, NV: December 31st

AREA15, Las Vegas’ immersive entertainment district just minutes away from the famous Las Vegas strip, will transform into an electrifying masquerade ball on New Year’s Eve. Six rooms will host a different themed masquerade party, each offering its own distinct experience. Headliners across the rooms for the evening include Eli & Fur, Soraya, Robyn Lee, Kyliente, Micah J, FX Logik, Kitch N Sync, and more.

Venetian Ball: Floor-to-ceiling 360-degree projections and sultry beats will transport you to another land.

Galactic Ball: Lose yourself in intergalactic PLUR inside the Uncommons, disguised as a stellar dance floor for all night raging with out-of-this world acrobatic performers. Featuring electronic music by VIBEFM.

Rendezcous Ball: Buff your boss level dances skills throughout two floors of Asylum Bar & Arcade. Side quests welcome. Featuring hip-hop and R&B curated by Leverage.

Blacklight Ball: Hosted by Bodies and Beats, embark on a mesmerizing journey with black-lit backdrops, go-go dancers, and art-forward photo opportunities soundtracked to Bodies & Beats.

Nature Ball: The Oddwood and Santuary Lounges merge into a spiritual Silent Disco with transformative activities and anthemic, ambient, and world-based beats.

Mirror Ball: Hosted by Las Vegas Weekly, prepare for your cover shoot and melt into a glittering ballroom of mirrors, lights, and sounds.

All early bird and premium tables are already sold out. Remaining tickets and information can be found here.