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Apple season is officially here, which means we’re looking for just about any excuse to bake with them. Apple pie and apple crisp are obvious choices, but pastry chef Joseph Feiertag has another suggestion: Jewish apple cake.

His version is packed with thinly sliced apples tossed with cinnamon and sugar, layered through the middle and arranged across the top. The batter gets vanilla and a splash of orange juice, adding a hint of citrus to all that apple and cinnamon. Once it’s out of the oven, a thick slice and a cup of coffee sound like a pretty perfect pairing.

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Feiertag was eating this cake long before he became a pastry chef at Lehigh University, where he’s worked for more than 23 years. He remembers it from childhood, and his family has now been making it for about 50 years. Eventually, his cousins decided the pastry chef in the family should be the one making it.

When he took over, his family had one important piece of advice: “Don’t overbake the cake!”

Feiertag has picked up a few tricks of his own too, from which apples work best to exactly how thick to slice them. Get Feiertag’s family recipe for Jewish apple cake, plus some of the tricks to make it into a star dessert your whole family will love.

Why This Jewish Apple Cake Is My Family’s Favorite

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Feiertag traces the cake back to his grandmother, who made it for her big annual summer picnic when he was about 10 years old. Years later, his aunt was still making it for family visits and holiday dinners.

As a young adult, Feiertag remembers bringing his girlfriend, who would later become his wife, to visit his aunt, uncle and cousins. “There was always cake and coffee waiting on the table when you arrived,” he says. “Sure enough, the apple cake was there.”

As Feiertag and his cousins started families of their own, they gathered at Aunt Barbara’s house for holiday dinners, with apple cake for dessert. At one dinner, one of their teenagers had a question: Why did they call it Jewish apple cake when the family was Austrian? “And just like that, the name stuck,” Feiertag says. From then on, they called it Austrian Jewish apple cake.

Eventually, his cousins passed the baking duties on to Feiertag. “I was now officially responsible for making the family cake because, after all, I was the pastry chef in the family,” he says.

His family also had one warning: Don’t overbake it. Aunt Barbara, Feiertag says, had a reputation for doing just that “all. the. time.”

Related: Costco’s Sweet and Creamy Fall Dessert Is Finally Back and Shoppers Are Hooked: ‘This Is the Best Thing Ever’

The Pastry Chef Secret: Choosing the Perfect Baking Apple

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Feiertag’s Aunt Barbara used Granny Smith apples, and they’re still one of his two picks for the cake today. “It has a bold apple flavor, sharp tartness and firm texture that resists breaking down when baked,” he says.

His grandmother likely used Rome or Granny Smith apples because there weren’t nearly as many varieties available when she started making the cake 50 years ago.

Feiertag’s other pick is Pink Lady apples. “It’s sweeter than tart, but also has good texture,” he says. So, if you want more tartness, go with Granny Smith; for a sweeter cake, try Pink Lady.

Ingredients Needed

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You don’t need a long shopping list for Feiertag’s apple cake. Most of the ingredients are baking basics, with orange juice adding a little citrus to the batter.

For the cake, you’ll need:

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup vegetable or avocado oil
• 2 cups sugar
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• Baking release spray, for the pan

For the apple layer, you’ll need:

• 2 medium apples
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

How to Make Jewish Apple Cake

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1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Add the eggs, sugar and oil to a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix for about five minutes, then add the orange juice and vanilla. Stir in the flour and baking powder until combined.
2. Core, peel and halve the apples, then cut them into thin slices. Place them in a medium bowl with the sugar and cinnamon, and toss until evenly coated.
3. Generously spray the bottom, sides and center tube of a tube pan with baking release spray. Pour in half of the batter, and arrange about two-thirds of the cinnamon-sugar apples on top.
4. Pour the remaining batter over the apples, then arrange the rest of the apple slices on top.
5. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the cake to check for doneness; it should come out clean.

Related: Sam’s Club’s New $8 Dessert Serves 16 Squares of Chocolatey, Caramel Goodness

The Steps Most Home Bakers Skip (But Shouldn’t)

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Feiertag says two steps are especially important when making this cake. The first is mixing the eggs, oil and sugar for the full five minutes called for in the recipe.

“This step is important for trapping air pockets in the fat and eggs, and acts like a mechanical leavening, giving cakes and cookies their light rise and tender texture,” he says.

You’ll also want to pay attention to the thickness of the apple slices. Cut them too thin, and the apples on top can burn. “This is why my aunt dusted it with powdered sugar—to hide the overdoneness,” Feiertag says.

Slices that are too thick come with a different set of problems. “The apples sink, causing a soggy bottom, or it takes forever to bake, and you burn the top and you need more powdered sugar,” he says.

Feiertag recommends cutting the apples about as thick as three quarters stacked together.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

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This Jewish apple cake is a good option if you want to get dessert out of the way ahead of time. Feiertag says it freezes well as long as it’s securely wrapped or placed in an airtight container.

For shorter-term storage, his family kept the cake right on the counter. “We kept ours on the counter for days in an old Rubbermaid cake server,” he says. “It’s ‘vintage’ now, and I probably still have it somewhere.”

If you’re making the cake well in advance, freeze it. Otherwise, an airtight container will help keep it fresh for the next few days.

Time to Dig In

The cake can be served at room temperature, with a little powdered sugar over the top if you’d like. For dessert, try it with vanilla ice cream or lightly whipped cream. And there’s always Feiertag’s family favorite: a slice with a cup of coffee after dinner.

Source:

• Joseph Feiertag is a pastry chef at Lehigh University.

Related: This Popular Protein Bar Brand Just Turned Apple Pie Into a Fall Workout Snack

Dane Cook is opening up about how he dropped 50 pounds.

The popular comedian, 54, rose to stardom as a stand-up and hit it big with films like Employee of the Month, Good Luck Chuck, and My Best Friend’s Girl. But in a new Instagram post, the star revealed that he recently lost 50 pounds, bringing his weight down to 195 pounds. He noted that’s a number he hasn’t seen on the scale since 2009.

Matt Winkelmeyer / Getty Images

In a post that can’t be embedded, Cook opened up about his workout routine. Combining a mix of cardio, Pilates, and strength training, he’s also stepped into the world of peptides.

Click here to head to Cook’s Instagram page, where he shows off the results of his 50-pound weight loss.

“Down over 50 lbs to 195 lbs – not since 2009 Daily swim – 500 + cal burn. 30 min Pilates mostly red spring no breaks straight through. Extra abs always. Kettlebell for 5 min each morning part of my warm up – round the worlds both low and around my head
Abs on the roller a few nights a week before bed. Food is carnivore adjacent and a daily fast until around noon (protein shake w/ (collagen + protein). NAD PLUS 3 days a week
Peptides – TB500 / BPC / GHK-CU all for muscle recovery and digestion, skin & hair, tissue repair & reducing inflammation Red light therapy / red bed sometimes,” Cook explained. “The peptides mostly for recovery because when I swim it’s several full body activating sprints attached to the swim tether. And I’m active – sometimes racquetball or even playing with two grown Rhodesian Ridgebacks daily is a lot of physical play running and tiring them out. Best shape of my life but we are not done yet. Follow for updates or any changes I make that you might wanna try.”

In a follow-up post, Cook showed off his svelte frame and thanked fans and followers for their support.

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What’s Dane Cook’s New Documentary About?

Cook’s new documentary, Funny Money: The Dane Cook Story, is a new true-crime documentary that explores how Cook’s half-brother Darryl McCauley stole millions from him.

“Dane Cook had it all: fame, fortune, and sold-out arenas. Then he discovered his own brother had stolen millions. Funny Money reveals the shocking betrayal that nearly destroyed him and his fight to reclaim his life,” the description reads.

Related: Dane Cook Reveals Bizarre Place His Brother Hid Money After Stealing Millions From Him

Outside of firing up the grill and catching all the sales you can find, Labor Day is the best time to say sayonara to the long, languishing days of summer as we inch just a little bit closer to fall. Although it may not be your last chance to throw some burgers and dogs on the grill, it might be one of the last times before Thanksgiving that you’re able to get all your closest friends and family together for a real deal cookout. And we’re not just talking about your average run-of-the-mill grilling sessions—we’re talking about an absolute barbecue fest complete with all the fixin’s. 

Pasta or potato salad, corn on the cob, maybe even a few brats, and of course perfectly ripe grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream. But if you’re struggling to figure out how to pull it all off and wondering if Sam’s Club is open on Labor Day, worry not, because we’ve got the answer for you. 

Related: 125 Labor Day Weekend Instagram Captions To Let the Good Times Roll

Is Sam’s Club Open on Labor Day?

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We’ve all been there before. It’s the ninth hour; you’re running around trying to figure out what needs to be done next when suddenly you realize that you forgot to get the hot dogs. You immediately spiral, grab your keys, and head out the door without even checking to see if Sam’s Club is open first. Fortunately, Sam’s Club stores will be open on Labor Day, so you can pick up any lingering ingredients and a pack or two of Nathan’s Famous. Meltdown averted! 

Of course, it’s still always a great idea to plan ahead if you can. Our secret to effortless hosting for Labor Day and beyond is to determine what’s essential—like the mains and a few sides—and then figure out what can be subbed out or forgotten altogether. That way, things feel a bit less panicked if you do end up needing to make a last-minute run.

What Are Sam’s Club’s Labor Day Hours?

In addition to planning ahead, we also recommend double-checking your local club’s hours before committing to swinging by, just in case they decide to close early. Generally speaking, most Sam’s Club stores will be open during normal business hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for Plus members and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for Club members. That means you’ll have plenty of time to get in, grab your emergency potato salad and get out before your guests arrive. Provided you can make it through the sea of other last-minute shoppers who also forgot the hot dogs, of course, 

Either way, Sam’s Club has you covered. So, what are you waiting for? You’ve got a barbecue to plan! We’ll bring the ice cream.

Related: Does USPS Mail Run on Labor Day? Is the Post Office Open?

Few things say weekend morning quite like a warm stack of flapjacks. Soft and fluffy, topped with sweet syrup and a pat of creamy, salty butter, they’re a breakfast worth slowing down for.

Of course, they’re not exactly the easiest thing to grab when you’re running out the door. So Little Debbie is taking that weekend breakfast moment and turning it into a less-sticky snack you can enjoy anytime.

The new Little Debbie FlapJack Mini Muffins were first highlighted earlier this summer, with reports that they would begin arriving in stores in early September. And right on schedule, they’re starting to show up.

Snack expert Zach (@snachwithzach) recently shared the news with his followers, highlighting the newest addition to Little Debbie’s Mini Muffins lineup.

@snachwithzach

We’ve got some exciting new snack releases to kick off September so let’s get into the list! Little Debbie’s new FlapJack Mini Muffins are hitting stores now for back-to-school season with a maple syrup flavor. Eggo has new Brown Sugar Cinnamon waffles inspired by Korean hotteok. Banquet has launched new Mega Chicken Tenders, triple-sized crispy chicken tenders available in Original and Spicy. Pillsbury’s new frozen Grands Croissants are hitting stores in Butter and Chocolate varieties, ready to bake in about 30 minutes. Herr’s has launched new Four Cheese Mac & Cheese Curls wherever Herr’s products are sold. Red Baron’s new CrunchTime microwavable personal pizzas cook in five minutes with a crispy crust, available in Four Cheese, Pepperoni, and Meat Trio. Annie’s has two new mac and cheese flavors: limited-edition Grilled Cheese, launching first at Target before expanding elsewhere, and SUPER! Mac Dill Pickle, available at Walmart, Target, and Amazon. Jack Link’s and Meat Church BBQ have teamed up for Holy Cow Texas-Style BBQ Rub Beef Jerky and Honey Hog BBQ Rub Pork Jerky, available at select Walmart stores nationwide throughout September while supplies last. Are you excited for any of these new snack releases for September? #snacks #littledebbie #macandcheese #foodtok #groceryshopping

♬ original sound – snachwithzach Little Debbie FlapJack Mini Muffins Bring Pancake Flavor on the Go

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The new mini muffins pack the flavors of a leisurely pancake breakfast into a bite-sized snack, with the packaging promising a “big syrupy taste” without the sticky mess. They’re naturally and artificially flavored and, despite that syrupy sweetness, made without high-fructose corn syrup.

Each 8.44-ounce box contains individually wrapped pouches of mini muffins, making them easy to grab on a busy morning or tuck into a lunchbox for later.

Instacart now lists Little Debbie FlapJack Mini Muffins starting at $2.79, though pricing and availability may vary by location and retailer.

Related: We Asked 5 Chefs Their Favorite Little Debbie Snack, and Their Picks Were Pure Lunchbox Nostalgia

The timing couldn’t be much better. With school back in session, the individual packs make an easy addition to lunchboxes, after-school snack stashes, road trips, or even a desk drawer for those afternoons when something sweet sounds especially good.

And while they’re inspired by breakfast, there’s certainly no rule saying you have to eat them before noon. That buttery, syrupy flavor sounds just as tempting alongside an afternoon cup of coffee or as a sweet little treat after dinner.

After a summer of waiting, Little Debbie FlapJack Mini Muffins are finally beginning to arrive, giving pancake lovers a portable new way to enjoy those familiar breakfast flavors without a griddle, fork, or sticky bottle of syrup in sight.

Sylvester Stallone has built a decades-long career playing tough guys, from Rambo to Rocky, who rise up in the face of danger and adversity. What he didn’t count on before filming the 1982 blockbuster First Blood was that he and his co-stars would have to do the same, suffering real-life injuries on the set.

Stallone’s first movie as Vietnam vet John Rambo was First Blood, which was so popular it spawned an entire franchise. In the film, Rambo’s PTSD is triggered when he’s arrested for minor infractions and deputies taunt him at the police station. His panicked escape prompts a massive manhunt for the war hero. But filming proved to be more dangerous for Stallone and his castmates than for the fictional characters they played.

Stallone insisted on doing some of his own stunts, opting to step in for the final third of Rambo’s desperate cliff jump. In 2024, he told Best Action Movies that the first take was successful, but the director wanted to film the jump a second time for “safety.”

But when he leaped toward the tree for a second take, Stallone hit a tree branch “in the dead center of my ribs and broke them,” he said. Hitting the ground only added insult to injury, so when Rambo yells out on the ground in agony? That’s Stallone’s “real” reaction to breaking several ribs.

Stallone wasn’t the only walking wounded on the set of First Blood. The late actor Brian Dennehy, who played Sheriff Teasle, also wound up with broken ribs while filming the scene in which he crashes through the police station ceiling, according to John Barker‘s newly-published book, All The Right Movies: The Stories and Secrets Behind the Making of 25 Iconic Films.

In addition, Alf Humphreys, who played Deputy Lester, broke his nose “when Stallone’s elbow accidentally connected during a fight scene,” Barker wrote.

A Stuntman Was Also Seriously Injured On the Set of First Blood

The First Blood shoot even proved dangerous for Bennie Dobbins, who was a third-generation stuntman, according to Looper. During the movie’s infamous car and motorcycle chase, things did not go as planned. After Rambo jumps over train tracks on his stolen bike, Sheriff Teasle’s police car follows suit. Dobbins was in the driver’s seat filming the stunt.

In 2008, a paramedic who was on the British Columbia film set in case of an emergency recalled the scary moment for a blog devoted to First Blood. Explaining that the crew had set up ramps in the road to make the car leap over the tracks at 70 mph, he said, “the car came down well beyond the three railway tracks and on all four wheels simultaneously, instantly stopping the engine while the car, still doing about 40 miles an hour, rolled down the road.”

Actor Sylvester Stallone plays Rambo on the set of First Blood based on the novel by Canadian David Morrell and directed by Ted Kotcheff.

Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images

“While everyone there stood in amazement at what had just happened, the silent car gradually rolled to a stop, the drivers door opened, and Dobbins fell out onto the road,” he continued. “It was as though the car had been dropped straight down from the roof of a two story building, and Dobbins’ back had been broken by the compression forces. He could easily have been paralyzed.”

Dobbins did recover and went on to serve as stunt coordinator for many ’80s action movies, including 48 Hrs., Jumpin’ Jack Flash, and The Running Man, per IMDb. Sadly, he died at 55 while filming another movie, Red Heat, after suffering a heart attack on the set in 1988.

In the end, First Blood cost $14 million to make and was a megahit at the box office, grossing more than $125 million worldwide, per Screen Daily. It is currently available to watch for free via Tubi and YouTube, and can also be found on Netflix, Apple TV, and Prime Video.

For generations, the traditional art world drew a strict, uncompromising line between “high art” and popular culture. Paintings hanging in gilded museum frames were treated with reverence, while comic strips, movie concept sketches, and serialized pulp illustrations were often brushed aside as commercial ephemera.

George Lucas and his wife, Mellody Hobson, are officially rewriting that rulebook.

On Tuesday, September 22, 2026, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art will open its doors in Los Angeles‘s historic Exposition Park. Billed as a first-of-its-kind cultural institution, the museum is dedicated entirely to visual storytelling across human history—treating prehistoric cave drawings, Golden Age comic books, and blockbuster cinematic artifacts as part of one continuous artistic lineage.

Related: George Lucas’s New Museum Receives Exciting Update For 2026

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 02: A view outside during the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Opening Preview at Lucas Museum of Narrative Art on September 02, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Lucas Museum of Narrative Art)

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art.

The soaring 300,000-square-foot building, designed by Ma Yansong of MAD Architects with Stantec, looks like a sleek, aerodynamic cloud floating above a brand-new 13-acre public park. Inside, visitors will find over 100,000 square feet of gallery space spanning 30-plus exhibition rooms, two continuous drop-in movie theaters, a free research library, and an open-to-the-public rooftop restaurant dubbed the Skywalker Grill.

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art CEO Tracey Bates emphasized the ambitious scope of the project, sharing: “George Lucas and Mellody Hobson have an unshakeable faith in the power of visual storytelling to inspire not just individuals but entire societies, bringing people together around goals, beliefs, and values worth sharing. It’s incredibly rewarding to finally welcome the public through our doors. Every gallery, every program, every corner of this museum was built with our visitors in mind, and we can’t wait for people to experience it.”

Related: 1971 George Lucas Flop Invented the ‘Star Wars’ Aesthetic 55 Years Ago

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 02: A view inside during the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Opening Preview at Lucas Museum of Narrative Art on September 02, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Lucas Museum of Narrative Art)

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

The architectural footprint itself was conceived to echo that narrative flow. Architect Ma Yansong explained: “I am deeply grateful to George Lucas and Mellody Hobson for giving me the opportunity to create a building that will faithfully serve the visitors and the art while being as light and free as a cloud, or a dream. Designed with emotional architecture spaces, so that it is fluid in every part, and merged like a natural feature of the landscape into Exposition Park, the building invites everyone to participate in a journey of discovery and become part of the story of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art.”

The inaugural exhibitions trace narrative history through more than 1,300 works. Visitors will encounter works by Artemisia Gentileschi, Frida Kahlo, and Vincent van Gogh hanging alongside iconic American illustrators like Norman Rockwell, Maxfield Parrish, and N.C. Wyeth, as well as comic legends Charles Schulz, Jack Kirby, and Robert Crumb.

Related: One of NYC’s Most Beloved Art Museums Will Reopen After Nearly Two Years

Film lovers will find the complete Lucas Archives on display, featuring a dedicated Star Wars in Motion gallery showcasing original physical builds, concept art, and vehicles ranging from Luke Skywalker’s 1977 Landspeeder to General Grievous’s Wheel Bike.

Surrounding the museum, an expansive 13-acre botanical park designed by Mia Lehrer of Studio-MLA replaces a former asphalt parking lot with 300 native trees, waterfall fountains, and 10 monumental outdoor bronze sculptures—including heroic Star Wars figures and tributes to stop-motion animation pioneers.

Between its boundary-breaking collections and accessible public gardens, the landmark institution proves that the stories that shape our imaginations belong in the center of the cultural conversation.

Related: America’s First-of-Its-Kind Museum Opens in Florida, Showcasing Otherworldly Creatures Older Than Dinosaurs

Eugene Levy and his wife, Deb Divine, are the cutest red carpet couple at the Creative Arts Emmys.

The beloved Canadian actor, 79, rose to stardom on SCTV before becoming a fan favorite in films like American Pie, Waiting for Guffman, and Best in Show. Of course, his role in Schitt’s Creek introduced him to an entirely new generation of comedy lovers! But now, the star hit the red carpet at the 2026 Creative Arts Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California, and he looked so in love with Divine, his wife of almost 50 years. Check out the sweet duo below:

Frank Micelotta / Getty Images

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Eugene Levy’s Touching Remembrance for Catherine O’Hara

Levy shared a touching remembrance of Catherine O’Hara upon her passing, the Hollywood Reporter noted. Known for roles in films like Home Alone, Beetlejuice, Best in Show, Waiting for Guffman, A Mighty Wind, and After Hours, O’Hara also had a longstanding friendship with Levy, which culminated in their work on Schitt’s Creek.

“Words seem inadequate to express the loss I feel today. I had the honor of knowing and working with the great Catherine O’Hara for over fifty years. From our beginnings on the Second City stage, to SCTV, to the movies we did with Chris Guest, to our six glorious years on Schitt’s Creek, I cherished our working relationship, but most of all our friendship. And I will miss her. My heart goes out to Bo, Matthew, Luke, and the entire O’Hara family,” he wrote.

Eugene Levy’s Son, Dan Levy, Also Honored Catherine

Schitt’s Creek star and creator Dan Levy opened up about how he’s coping in the wake of Catherine O’Hara‘s death.

Levy, 43, played O’Hara’s son David on the hit series, which followed the wealthy Rose family after they lost their fortune and were forced to seek refuge in a rural Canadian town named Schitt’s Creek. The family patriarch, video tycoon Johnny Rose (played by the legendary Eugene), once purchased the town as a joke for their son David’s birthday decades prior. O’Hara earned rave reviews and legions of new fans for her role as matriarch Moira Rose, the eccentric actress known for bizarre word pronunciations and an extensive wig collection.

But in an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Levy opened up about what gives him the greatest comfort since losing O’Hara at 71 in January.

“Listen, it’s like a collective loss, I think,” Levy shared. “She was the greatest. She’s irreplaceable. The great comfort for me has just been to see how loved she was — the outpouring. Everyone felt like they kind of knew her.”

Fallon raved about O’Hara, noting that “She could do everything. She was one of the funniest comedians I’ve ever seen. Can do characters. Gorgeous.” Levy spoke of her as “Unbelievably talented at improvising. One of the great, great, great queens.”

Related: ‘Schitt’s Creek’ Star Annie Murphy Shares Touching Tribute to Costar Catherine O’Hara

As the 2026 NFL season gets underway, New York Giants fans are once again focused on winning. Odell Beckham Jr. is back on the Giants roster and back wearing No. 13. Quarterback Jaxson Dart, wide receiver Malik Nabers and elite pass rusher Brian Burns are all giving NFL fans something to talk about, 40 years after the ’86 Giants pulled off one of the biggest stunts in professional football history just an hour before heading out to Pasadena to face the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI.

@nadachamp

#nygiants embrassing. #cringeworthy #vintage #nfl

♬ original sound – N/ADaChamp

In 1986, the Giants faced the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI in Pasadena, California. Just an hour before boarding the bus to the airport, several members of the squad made an impromptu rap and dance video called “We Are the New York Giants.”

The Chicago Bears had famously created “Super Bowl Shuffle” the year before, and the ’86 Giants wanted to capture some of the Bears’ pop-culture magic. Unlike the Bears, who produced their video and filmed it well in advance of reaching the Super Bowl, the Giants players put theirs together at the last minute, giving the players only a few hours to learn the lyrics and dance moves.

The video may look underproduced, even rushed, but that’s exactly what makes it so entertaining today. The New York Giants would go on to beat the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI, but an hour before departing, they weren’t acting like polished pop stars or even the megawatt star athletes that they were. They were just teammates having fun and celebrating one of the biggest moments in any of their careers.

Related: Olympic Figure Skater Joining ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Had Her Best-Ever Performance to This ’80s Classic

The Giants Wanted Their Own “Super Bowl Shuffle” @truseeker777_2.0

Chicago Bears Shufflin’ Crew – Super Bowl Shuffle (1985). #chicagobearsshufflincrew #chicagobears #superbowlxx #superbowl #80ssports #80sfootball #fyp

♬ Silence 3 Minutes – Silent Meditation, No Sound Pause Breaks

The Bears’ “Super Bowl Shuffle” became a genuine pop-culture phenomenon. The Giants’ version never reached that same level of pop-culture zeitgeist, but it offers a timeless snapshot of the culture of the late 1980s, when not everything an NFL star did had to be curated and turned into part of a social media strategy.

“We Are the New York Giants” may not be as polished as a heavily produced team marketing video or a perfectly curated music video, but it captures a moment in time, just an hour before some of the biggest sports stars in the world headed off to play on the world’s biggest stage.

Here, these future Super Bowl champions are just athletes having fun.

Related: Olympic Skating Legend, 62, Who Created Magic at the 1988 Winter Games, Can Still Make the Ice Sing

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Summer may get most of the credit for backyard hangs, but we’re making a case for fall as the real outdoor activities season. Think crisp afternoons watching soccer from the sidelines, tailgates before the big game, nights around the bonfire, leaf-peeping picnics, camping trips, and weekends spent at apple orchards and pumpkin patches. When your autumn calendar starts filling up, having somewhere comfortable to sit becomes very important.

And conveniently, REI’s Labor Day sale gives you an excellent reason to upgrade your seat before fall gets underway. The REI Co-Op Flexlite Camp Chair is currently 25% off, dropping from its usual $90 to just $67 for the holiday weekend. That’s $23 back in your pocket for a chair you could end up hauling from one activity to the next.

REI Co-Op Flexlite Camp Chair, $67 (was $90) at REI

Courtesy of REI

Shop at REI

Weighing just 1 pound, 11 ounces, this chair is surprisingly “comfortable” for something so “compact” and “convenient,” according to REI shoppers. The “durable” scoop-style seat is made from abrasion-resistant ripstop polyester and designed to eliminate uncomfortable tension points, so there’s less shifting around trying to find the right position. It sits 11 inches off the ground and measures 25 inches tall by 20 inches wide and 20 inches deep when unfolded, offering plenty of room to sit without the bulk of a traditional folding chair. And despite how little it weighs, it can support up to 250 pounds.

The chair’s aluminum pole-and-hub frame works like a lightweight tent, with a stable four-legged base that is “easy to pack.” Large openings and pull loops on the pole pockets help get the fabric seat onto the frame, and the entire chair collapses to just 4.5 inches by 15 inches. Once tucked into the included drawstring bag, it’s compact enough to store inside a backpack, camping bin, or trunk.

The fabric, available in three solid colors and two patterns, was made with outdoor adventures in mind. It has a durable water-repellent finish to help resist moisture and stains, which comes in handy on dewy grass, at damp campsites, or when the inevitable drink gets knocked over. 

Shop More Deals

• REI Co-Op Campwell Chair, $45 (was $60) at REI
• REI Co-Op Camp Low Chair, $52 (was $70) at REI
• REI Co-Op Flexlite Camp Dreamer Chair, $97 (was $130) at REI

REI shoppers left plenty of praise for this “sturdy” seat in the reviews section, calling it “a great chair for camping, backpacking, or sitting out watching a little league game.” One customer said “it’s the little chair that can, and does,” calling it “lightweight, compact, and not too heavy on the budget.” Other shoppers highlighted that it “packs down to small size for stowage in bags,” which is especially important for camping and backpacking.

Related: Patagonia’s Lightweight Quilted Jacket Is ‘Perfect for Fall’ and 50% Off at REI During Its Labor Day Sale

Your fall plans may be ever-changing, but at least your seat is sorted. Shop the REI Co-Op Flexlite Camp Chair for $67 at REI while it’s 25% off during the retailer’s Labor Day sale!

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Labor Day has a way of sneaking up on you. One minute it’s the unofficial start of summer, and the next you’re staring down the first Monday in September—which happens to be Sept. 7 this year—and wondering where the season went. For plenty of shoppers, the long weekend also means an extra grocery run for burgers, snacks, drinks and all those things everyone somehow forgot to put on the list. If you live in the Southeast, there’s a good chance that a grocery run involves a Publix. But is Publix open on Labor Day?

For anyone who doesn’t live near one, Publix is a supermarket chain that has become something of a regional institution. Founded in Florida in 1930, the employee-owned company now has more than 1,400 stores across eight states, including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Kentucky. Florida is very much Publix territory, with hundreds more stores there than in any other state, but the chain has steadily expanded throughout the Southeast.

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Is Publix Open on Labor Day?

Enough of the history lesson, you’ll be pleased to know that Publix is, in fact, open on Labor Day. So if you’re missing a key ingredient for your strawberry pretzel pie or infamous potato salad, you can shop at Publix on Monday, Sept. 7, to grab what you need.

Related: Dollar Tree’s $1.50 Stoneware Mugs Are the Prettiest Way to Enjoy Your Morning Coffee

What are Publix’s Labor Day Hours? View this post on Instagram

Suffice it to say, many retailers who are open on Labor Day often operate on a limited schedule. Publix is not one such store. The grocer will be open during its regularly scheduled hours on Labor Day, which is 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.. That said, the Publix pharmacy will be closed on the holiday, so make sure to pick up any necessary prescriptions the day before, unless you can wait until the day after.

If you’re stocking up for a Labor Day gathering, Publix is a pretty convenient place to knock out the whole list in one trip. Think all the cookout essentials: burgers, hot dogs and chicken, buns, condiments and plenty of chips for grazing. You can also grab fresh fruit and vegetables for lighter sides, along with deli favorites, bakery treats and something sweet to round out the meal.

Related: Target’s New 6-Tier Arched Bookcase Is Perfect for Blending Farmhouse Style With Vintage Appeal

YOB, the ’90s metal band, has announced unexpected news regarding their upcoming shows this year. 

With several festival appearances and headlining shows scheduled, the trio, composed of lead vocalist and guitarist Mike Scheidt, bassist Aaron Rieseberg and drummer Dave French, has withdrawn from its live performance at RippleFest Texas on Sept. 18.

In a social media update, the frontman confirmed in a video that they will be “cancelling” their scheduled appearance at the event after suffering from nerve damage stemming from spinal stenosis.

Moreover, their upcoming appearance at Soulcrusher in the Netherlands and the standalone headlining shows at Saint Vitus Bar in Brooklyn, New York and a performance with Smoke The Fuzz in Greece, all scheduled for October, will be affected.

Mike Scheidt of YOB performs in concert during Villamanuela Festival 2014 in Madrid, Spain.

Mariano Regidor/Redferns

“Hey friends! We are sad to say that we need to cancel our upcoming appearance at Ripple Fest, and our October shows at St Vitus, Soulcrusher in the Netherlands, and with Smoke The Fuzz in Greece. Mike started experiencing some tingling in his left hand a few weeks back, but it would go away upon wiggling his fingers and so he didn’t think much of it. Recently, he woke up one morning and his left arm and shoulder were on fire from nerve pain, with his left arm not functioning properly. An MRI revealed cervical spinal stenosis due to calcium deposits that are pinching a nerve and causing his left arm and hand issues. We’re currently waiting on an appointment with a neurologist to discuss treatment options, though surgery will likely be involved. Luckily it’s a minimally invasive one, but we’re in a holding pattern until we find out more,” the caption reads.

View this post on Instagram

The comment section was filled with support and understanding from fans following the sad and unexpected news regarding Scheidt’s health.

“Hang in there!!!! You’ll be back before ya know it!!!” one wrote.

“Heal quick, legend,” a follower said.

At the same time, RippleFest’s official Instagram also commented on the band’s post, stating, “So sorry to hear about your condition Mike! We hope for a speedy recovery. RippleFest Texas is love and we are sending all we can towards you! We will see you on a stage soon, bigger and better than ever!”

Despite the abrupt cancellation, YOB promised fans that they are preparing for something “exciting” in the future.

“We were so looking forward to these shows! The good news is we have a lot of exciting things to share and we can’t wait to show you what we’ve been cooking up!” the band stated in their post.

This might include the band’s upcoming new album, which was planned to be released sometime this year, according to The PRP.

The record will mark the band’s long-awaited follow-up to their 2018 album, Our Raw Heart.

Related: 1994 Rock Song, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time,’ Was Written in a Boston Bathroom in 20 Minutes

Between surging airfares and eye-watering peak hotel rates, planning an autumn escape can quickly feel like an exercise in budget acrobatics. Yet fall also happens to be the sweetest window on the calendar for road trips: summer crowds have packed up, mid-day heat has faded into crisp sweater weather, and nature puts on its most dramatic show free of charge.

To find out how far a shoestring budget can actually stretch right now, we issued a challenge: If you had $500 total to spend on a fall trip, where would you go, how long could you stay, and how would you make the most of it?

From Smoky Mountain valleys to Tennessee river bluffs and coastal New England seaside havens, here is how three seasoned travel writers would spend every single dollar.

Related: A New Priceline Study Reveals Where Everyone’s Leaf-Peeping for Fall 2026

1. Great Smoky Mountains (Pigeon Forge & Sevierville, Tennessee)

James Randklev via Getty

Recommended by Jen Curnutt, Adventure & Luxury Travel Expert and Founder at Jen33Travel

If you want big scenic views on a tight budget, the Great Smoky Mountains are hard to beat—mostly because the main attraction is free.

“The Smokies punch way above their weight in fall because the main attraction, the national park, costs almost nothing to visit,” says travel writer Jen Curnutt. “Other than paying $5 for a daily parking tag, there’s no entrance fee to the national park. Yet, there are endless things to do including easy hikes, waterfalls to explore, picnic spots, and scenic drives like Newfound Gap Road, Foothills Parkway, and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.“

To make $500 stretch across a two-night road trip for two people, Curnutt recommends skipping pricey park-adjacent lodging right in Gatlinburg in favor of neighboring towns:

• Lodging: $200–$250 for two nights at a roadside motel in Sevierville or Pigeon Forge
• Gas: $75–$100 (driving within a few hours of the park)
• Groceries & Picnics: $75
• National Park Parking Tags: $10 (for 2 days)
• Dining Out & Activities: $65–$140

“One of the easiest ways to save money is to buy groceries for breakfast and picnic lunches, then use the money you’ve saved for one memorable dinner out,” Curnutt notes. “Plus, picnicking in the Smoky Mountains at a beautiful overlook surrounded by peak fall color is an experience in itself.”

Her signature low-cost highlight? The 11-mile Cades Cove Scenic Loop. “It winds through a mountain valley surrounded by stunning fall foliage with historic cabins, churches, and a working grist mill along the way. You’ll have a good chance of spotting deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears.”

The Booking Trick: Avoid weekends and book Sunday through Thursday. “Don’t obsess over hitting the predicted ‘peak foliage,'” Curnutt advises. “Fall color changes in waves depending on the elevation… Given the dramatic shifts in elevation throughout the park, there’s usually beautiful fall color somewhere in the Smokies throughout most of the season.”

Related: Don’t Battle the Crowds in the White Mountains This Fall—Here’s Where a Luxury Travel Advisor Told Me to Go Instead

2. Chattanooga, Tennessee Historic Chief John Ross Drawbridge and the Chattanooga Tennessee Skyline at Dusk

Jeremy Poland via Getty

Recommended by Sheree Holt, luxury travel advisor at Why Not Roam

If you prefer a walkable river city framed by mountain bluffs, Chattanooga delivers big-city culture and dining with small-town prices.

“I’m based in Atlanta, so I’m going with two nights in Chattanooga,” says travel pro Holt. “It’s got mountains, river views, a walkable downtown area, and some pretty good restaurants. Tennessee Riverwalk, Signal Point, Coolidge Park, and several areas of Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park are free, and the fall foliage is very Instagram-worthy.”

Here is how Holt maps out her $500 budget:

• Lodging: $210 (two nights at about $105/night 10–15 minutes outside downtown in East Ridge or Hamilton Place, with breakfast and parking included)
• Transportation: $50 in gas for the round-trip drive from Atlanta
• Food: $150 (pairing included hotel breakfasts with casual lunches and one standout dinner out)
• Activities: $50 (combining free waterfront trails with a paid ride like the historic Incline Railway)
• Snacks & Incidentals: $40

Holt’s must-do budget moment is sunset at Signal Point. “It overlooks the Tennessee River Gorge from Signal Mountain. The Signal Point area is free, and the main overlook is pretty close to the parking area so you don’t have to do the Cumberland Trail hike to get the view… You can drive up near golden hour, walk out to the overlook, and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.”

The Booking Trick: Skip festival weekends and visit Sunday to Tuesday in late October through early November, when regional foliage peaks. “Cut on hotel location, but (of course) not cleanliness or comfort,” Holt says. “When you’re working with a $500 budget, the river and mountains are already outside waiting for you for free.”

Related: 8 Wellness Trips Every Woman Over 50 Needs, According to Experts

3. Coastal Southern Maine (Kennebunk & Ogunquit) Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state

DenisTangneyJr Via Getty

Recommended by Meghann Foye, Travel Editor

While New England coastal towns have a reputation for hefty price tags in summer, the post-Labor Day shoulder season is an entirely different story. Once the peak crowds thin out, you can score coastal ocean air, historic architecture, and crisp harbor walks for a fraction of high-season prices.

My go-to fall escape is a two-night mid-week road trip to coastal Maine, staying at The Port Inn in Kennebunk. It sits just away from the congested downtown traffic, making it super easy to explore neighboring hidden gems like Cape Porpoise, Goose Rocks Beach, and Route 1 down toward Ogunquit. Best of all, it’s genuinely dog-friendly, which means you don’t have to spend a dime on pet boarding.

Because the property is an Ascend Hotel Collection member under Choice Hotels, it’s also a sweet spot for redeeming leftover points balances—or booking mid-week rates that plunge under $120 a night once schools are back in session.

• Lodging: $230–$250 for two mid-week nights at The Port Inn
• Gas: $60 (round-trip from greater Boston or southern New England)
• Breakfasts & Lunches: $60 (loaded KPort morning bagels or Boulangerie croissants)
• Incidentals & Treasures: $50 (window shopping and picking up a custom necklace at Charm Bar)
• Dinner Out: $80–$100 (a steaming bowl of local clam chowder, fresh lobster roll dinner at Mabel’s Lobster Claw by the water, and don’t forget a local Maine I.P.A.)

For me, a fall trip to the coast is all about lingering over the small details. I always make time to wander the greenhouse grounds at Snug Harbor Farm, browse rotating gallery exhibits at KW Contemporary, and dig through eclectic maritime finds at Seacraft Vintage. Beyond shopping, you can stroll along quiet beaches wrapped in an oversized wool sweater, drop into Reigning Cats & Dogs to grab pet treats, or stop into a local boutique to build a custom charm necklace as a keepsake.

The Booking Trick: Travel Tuesday through Thursday to catch hotel rates at their lowest and enjoy free parking at beaches that normally charge hefty daily summer fees.

Whether you’re watching black bears from a valley loop, catching golden hour over a river gorge, or strolling a coastal harbor with your dog, a memorable autumn escape doesn’t require a fortune—just knowing where the scenery does all the heavy lifting.

Related: Everyone Visits These 4 Destinations in Summer—A Luxury Travel Expert Says Fall Is Actually Way Better

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There’s nothing worse than an unorganized home. We’ve all been there — which is why investing in furniture that doubles as storage is vital for any living space (and your sanity). Walmart has incredible home finds that will aid in your fall outdoor refresh, like this Homall Plastic Storage Bench. 

The entirely plastic version of the bench, which is available in black, brown, or gray, typically costs $210, but has been marked down to $113. Want a cushion? No problem — the Homall Storage Bench With Cushion is available for just $20 more in the same colors, and over $100 off in total. The original price for the cushioned version is $236, but it’s now on Labor Day sale for just $132. That’s a pretty amazing deal, right?

Homall Plastic Storage Bench, From $113 (was $210) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Both benches hold a maximum 600 pounds with 80 gallons worth of storage space, measuring at 48.5 inches long, 22.5 inches wide, and 16 inches tall. 

The bench itself is made of resin, so it’s lightweight and easy to carry. Plus, it’s water-, moisture-, and corrosion-resistant, so you can just leave it outside without worry. The design features a backing that allows you to sit on it comfortably, two wide arm rests, and a storage container underneath, acting as the seat. You’re able to lock the storage container to keep your belongings secure from porch pirates and animals or bugs. 

Homall Plastic Storage Bench With Cushion, From $132 (was $236) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

You will have to assemble the bench, but reviewers said that they were able to do that themselves, with one customer even saying that their teenage grandchildren were able to put it together easily. Other shoppers described the piece as “sturdy,” “perfect” for storage, and “more spacious” than they ever expected. 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Beautiful’ $14 Solar Flower Lights ‘Shine So Pretty’ in Gardens and Yards

Customers have placed the storage bench by the pool to hold swimming items, and in their backyard for gardening tools, barbecue gear. Or, if you want to place it indoors, bedding, office supplies, and more will happily fit inside. The product description says the bench can fit just one person sitting, but shoppers said that it can fit two comfortably. 

Shop More Deals

• Devoko 82 Gallon Storage Patio Bench, $116 (was $180) at Walmart
• Decksplore Outdoor Storage Box, $130 (was $173) at Walmart
• Beautypeak Full-Length Arched Floor Mirror, $43 (was $69) at Walmart

Getting organized doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience, especially when we already found an affordable option for you. Add Walmart’s helpful storage bench to your cart, while it’s $100 off ahead of your outdoor gatherings! 

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Your birth month may reveal just how magnetic your personality is, from natural charisma and charm to the kind of presence people can’t help but notice.

Magnetism cannot be taught or bought—you either have that star quality, or you don’t. Being magnetic means having the ability to not only call, but to keep others’ attention. Magnetic people exude a powerful aura that effortlessly captivates everyone around them. Of course, someone’s magnetism can be amplified by wearing the power color or working with specific crystals. However, truly magnetic people don’t need anything extra, because they’re innately alluring.

According to astrologers, certain birth months are more magnetic than others thanks to their unique cosmic frequency. Each birth month is home to two zodiac signs, so no two birth months have the same astrological combination of energy. Some birth months have an effortless appeal and natural confidence that cannot be ignored, while other birth months may struggle tapping into their magnetism. Read on to see how the birth months are ranked, based on how magnetic they are.

The Most Magnetic Birth Months, Ranked

Check for the month you were born for pro insights.

October

October is undeniably magnetic, because this birth month is co-ruled by Venusian Libra and Martian Scorpio. According to astrology, Venus and Mars are known as the lover planets, since they come together to amplify love, seduction, passion, and connection. Those born in October embody the harmonious beauty of Venusian Libra and the captivating intensity of Martian Scorpio. October’s energy is palpable. They ooze sex appeal, so nobody can resist this birth month. But this month isn’t just inherently seductive. October is also beloved for their sparkling personalities that draw others in. There’s no doubt that October is the whole package, making them the most magnetic birth month.

July

July follows close behind those born in October, but for a different reason. People with July birthdays are aligned with the luminary signs, lunar-ruled Cancer and solar-ruled Leo. Being a mix of the luminary signs means that all July-born have a well-rounded, bright personality. July’s magnetism comes from their unbridled sense of self-confidence and emotional depth. Those born during this month know exactly who they are. July’s self-awareness helps them capitalize on their talents, skills, and strengths. Not to mention that this birth month is known for their immense emotional intelligence, so July knows how to read the room and respond accordingly.

May

People born in May are endlessly captivating, as they’re influenced by Venusian Tauus and Mercurial Gemini. The blend of Venus and Mercury gives May a witty charm. May can thank Taurus and Venus for their good looks and easygoing energy. May can also thank Gemini and Mercury for their mental agility, communicativeness, and youthfulness. This birth month’s astrological combination makes all May-born mentally and physically attractive. Plus, May has a non-plussed attitude, so their light-heartedness and steadiness amplifies their magnetism. Not only do they present well, but May also can hold an engaging conversation with anyone.

November

November exudes a mysterious magnetism. Those born during this month embody Scorpio’s intensity and Sagittarius’ vibrancy. November can thank Scorpio for their seductive allure. Luckily, this intensity is brightened by Sagittarius’ warmth and buoyancy. November is a unique blend of both signs, so this month comes across as startling yet captivating. People cannot help but notice November since this birth month has a strong presence. Individuals born during this month come across as self-possessed, vivacious, and passionate in all that they do. November’s entrancing personality and energy cannot help but pull you in.

February

Nobody can quite look away from February, since this birth month is home to zany Aquarius and dreamy Pisces. February’s magnetism is unique. People born during this month have an otherworldly appeal that draws everyone in. February initially captures attention with their whimsical appearance. They have an individualistic style nobody can quite copy, let alone put their finger on. Not only do they look physically different, but February also carries themselves differently. They have an esoteric aura that feels truly out of this world. The more genuine they are, the more magnetic February is.

August

August has a certain charm that cannot be missed. People with this birth month embody the traits of solar-ruled Leo, as well as attributes from perfectionistic Virgo. August has a natural confidence everyone is attracted to. This birth month shines brilliantly like the sun itself. August’s self-assurance and self-certainty amplifies this month’s talents, skills, and strengths. Not to mention that Virgo’s energy also sharpens August’s agility and attributes. August stops at nothing to be less than perfect, so this month is dedicated to their craft and success. Their perseverance and adaptability is admirable, so everyone cannot help but be drawn to August.

September

Individuals born in September fly under the radar the first time, but certainly not the second time. Their simple elegance derives from refined Virgo and Venusian Libra. People with this birth month are magnetic in a different way. September’s magnetism comes from their unassuming presence. They don’t have a loud, colorful personality or an enticing seductiveness like other birth months. September is magnetic because this birth month is polished. They come across as demure, relatable, and unpretentious, which pairs well with their sophisticated beauty. Once their magnetism is recognized, it’s hard to miss September.

March

Is March as magnetic as they think they are? People born during this month share Pisces’ fantasticalness and Aries’ passion, so there’s something captivating about March. However, they might not know how to amplify and capitalize on their magnetism. March may intuit that there’s a reason why they attract attention and opportunities, but they may not understand how this occurs. There’s a disconnect between March and their magnetism, which hinders March’s ability to use their magnetism to their advantage. March may have to overcome others’ projections, as well as their own delusions and insecurities, to harness their magnetism.

MORE: Your Birth Date Reveals Your Starbucks Order

April

People born in April don’t think of themselves as naturally magnetic, because they’re self-focused individuals. April is home to ambitious Aries and focused Taurus. People born during this month aren’t concerned about what other people think or feel toward them. April stays in their own lane to focus on their goals and aspirations. Since April is so self-focused and independent, they often miss out on honing their magnetism. Aside from this, the mix of Aries and Taurus energy can occasionally come across as hot-headed, stubborn, and even bombastic. April won’t appear nearly as magnetic if they cannot temper their stubbornness and combustibility.

December

December has so much potential to amplify their magnetism if they find the common ground between buoyant Sagittarius and authoritative Capricorn. Many may not know this, but December has immense potential to be captivating. However, Capricorn’s restrictive energy limits Sagittarius’ adventurousness and enthusiasm. December’s serious disposition can be off-putting and intimidating. Many may avoid this birth month out of fear of being met with a cold, stoic personality. As a result, December’s magnetism is curtailed as long as they’re stuffy and tight-lipped as opposed to being the ball of fun that they truly are deep down.

January

People born in January are more magnetic than they think, but they must overcome a self-limiting belief system. January’s magnetism is corralled since this month is home to the Saturnian signs, Capricorn and Aquarius. According to astrology, Saturn is the karmic planet of limitations and restrictions. Since Saturn rules this month, this means that January is heavily constrained. January has immense potential to shine brilliantly, but they struggle with self-acceptance. Feeling uncomfortable with their individuality and authenticity curtails this month’s self-expression. Unfortunately, this means that January won’t be nearly as magnetic as other birth months unless they overcome their self-imposed confinement.

June

Similar to those born in the winter months, June also struggles with their magnetism. June shares witty Gemini and lunar-ruled Cancer, so there’s immense potential. However, June is prone to moodiness and fickleness. June’s aura is an ever-changing landscape, so it can be difficult to stay in a magnetic state when they’re so receptive and sensitive to everything around them. Anything can take June out of their magnetism in a blink of an eye, be it an outside factor or an internalized worry. Once June masters their emotional and mental states to channel a more confident, secure magnetic vibration, they’ll climb the ranks in no time.

UP NEXT:

Ella Langley never shies away from an old school cover, and her rendition of a 1971 J.J. Cale track is a perfect example.

The 27-year-old country songstress once performed an intimate version of Cale’s deep cut “Magnolia,” bringing her smooth country twang to the beloved blues track.

“Magnolia” was released as part of Cale’s influential debut album, Naturally, which helped shape the “Tulsa Sound” that he would become known for. It has been covered by an array of impressive artists, from the likes of John Mayer and Eric Clapton, to Iron & Wine, Lucinda Williams, and of course, Langley.

Exactly one year ago today, Langley posted a TikTok recording of her performing a stripped-down piano version of “Magnolia,” and like always, she left fans absolutely floored with her raw natural talent.

@ellalangleymusic1

I got a new piano. Her name is pearl. I don’t know how to play piano. I love this song. #cover

♬ original sound – Ella Langley

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In the intimate video, Langley’s silhouette appeared in a dimly-lit space, as she used nothing but a piano and her mesmerizing voice to deliver a soft, yet emotionally powerful performance of Cale’s track.

“I love this song,” Langley wrote in her TikTok caption, while fans flocked to the comments to praise her for the stunning cover.

“This sounds so good!” one user commented, while another person said they had already listened to the clip “50 times in a row.”

“You crushed this one,” another follower said in adoration of Langley, while more users showered her with praise for having “the most soothing voice,” and encouraged her to “get this on spotify asap.”

“I did not expect that! Love this version of Magnolia!” one comment read.

Someone else told the rising superstar, Your voice is like velvet … JJCale is smiling down you.”

“This woman knows music,” another person added.

Related: 1973 Outlaw Country Ballad, Later Recorded By Elvis Presley, Is Ranked One of the King’s ‘Best Country Songs’

Related: 1973 Outlaw Country Ballad, Later Recorded By Elvis Presley, Is Ranked One of the King’s ‘Best Country Songs’

Walk into Aldi for the first time, and you might notice something missing: many of the national brands you’d see at other grocery stores. Instead, most of the shelves are filled with Aldi-exclusive labels. In fact, more than 90 percent of the products Aldi sells are exclusive brands.

That limited selection is part of Aldi’s strategy for keeping prices low. The grocer carries fewer versions of the same product and operates smaller stores than many traditional supermarkets.

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Of course, Aldi doesn’t make all of those products itself. Some of Aldi’s private-label products have been made by major food companies that also stock grocery stores under their own names and brands. And once you start digging into who makes what, there are some pretty unexpected connections.

There are also plenty of rumors about Aldi products online, so we did some digging of our own. We checked USDA and FDA records, recall notices, and food-industry sources to find connections we could back up. Suppliers can change, and sharing a manufacturer doesn’t mean two products are exactly the same, but we did find that some big name-brand food companies are secretly behind some of the Aldi favorites you may already have in your kitchen.

Name-Brand Cereals Hiding in Plain Sight

Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

Aldi’s ties to a major cereal maker go back decades. In 1998, a CDC investigation into a cereal recall identified Malt-O-Meal as the manufacturer of Millville Toasted Oats sold at Aldi. The same plant was also making Malt-O-Meal Toasty O’s, along with store-brand cereals for several other grocery chains.

Post Holdings acquired Malt-O-Meal’s parent company, MOM Brands, in 2015, and Malt-O-Meal became part of Post Consumer Brands. A few years later, Post was linked to another Millville cereal. In 2019, Store Brands, a trade publication covering the private-label industry, listed Post Consumer Brands alongside Aldi’s Millville Original Balance Multigrain Cereal in its Editors’ Picks Awards.

Today, Post’s cereal lineup includes Honey Bunches of Oats, PEBBLES, Grape-Nuts, Honeycomb and Malt-O-Meal. The company also makes cereals specifically for private-label partners, so producing cereal without the Post name on the box is nothing new.

Related: The Big-Name Brands Secretly Behind 12 of Walmart’s Great Value Labels

The Big-Name Brands Hiding Behind Aldi’s Private Labels

Some Aldi-exclusive products are made by companies you already know from the grocery aisle.

1. Rosina Food Products

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

Aldi’s Bremer Italian Style Meatballs have been manufactured by Rosina Food Products, a New York-based company that’s been making frozen Italian specialties since 1963. Rosina is also behind the namesake Rosina brand, along with Celentano, Mama Lucia and Italian Village.

The connection became especially clear in February 2026, when Rosina recalled nearly 9,500 pounds of Bremer Family Size Italian Style Meatballs sold at Aldi stores nationwide due to possible metal contamination.

2. Tyson Foods

Kseniya Romazanova / Getty Images

Aldi’s Kirkwood chicken has a major name behind at least some of its products: Tyson Foods, one of the largest poultry producers in the country. Aldi has directly confirmed the connection too.

In 2019, the grocer recalled Kirkwood Buffalo and Honey BBQ Crispy Chicken Strips in cooperation with Tyson Foods due to the potential presence of pieces of metal in the products. The recall directed customers with questions about the chicken strips straight to Tyson Foods Consumer Relations.

Tyson is a giant in the meat aisle. The company says it produces about 20 percent of the beef, pork and chicken in the United States, and its brands include Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm, Ball Park, Aidells and State Fair, in addition to Tyson.

3. J&J Snack Foods

The company behind SUPERPRETZEL and ICEE has also made food for Aldi. In 2019, J&J Snack Foods Handhelds recalled more than 56,000 pounds of stuffed sandwiches, including Bremer Classic Pepperoni Pizza and Ham & Cheese Hot Stuffed Sandwiches sold at Aldi.

J&J’s story started with pretzels. Founder Gerald Shreiber bought a struggling pretzel company at a bankruptcy auction in 1971 and turned it into SUPERPRETZEL. The company has since added some pretty recognizable snack-aisle and concession-stand names, including ICEE, Dippin’ Dots and Luigi’s Real Italian Ice.

4. Fresh Express

Aldi’s Little Salad Bar has a big name in the bagged salad business behind at least some of its greens. In 2020, Fresh Express recalled several Little Salad Bar products sold at Aldi that had been produced at its Streamwood, Illinois, facility, including Garden Salad, Classic Coleslaw and two chopped salad kits.

And Aldi wasn’t the only store brand coming out of the Fresh Express facility. The same recall included salads carrying Walmart’s Marketside, Jewel-Osco’s Signature Farms, Hy-Vee and other private-label names, along with salads sold under the Fresh Express name itself. Fresh Express is no small player, either: The company says it produces nearly 40 million pounds of salad each month.

Related: The 11 Best French Groceries to Buy at Costco (and 3 to Skip)

5. Reser’s Fine Foods

LauriPatterson / Getty Images

That tub of macaroni salad from Aldi has ties to a company that’s been making deli salads for decades. In 2024, Reser’s Fine Foods recalled a batch of 32-ounce Aldi Deli Macaroni Salad that it had produced at one of its regional facilities and distributed to Aldi.

Deli salads are what put Reser’s on the map in the first place. The family-owned company got its start in 1950 when Mildred Reser began making potato salad in her Oregon farmhouse kitchen and started selling it to stores the following year. Today, Reser’s sells its own line of macaroni salads, potato salads and coleslaw, and has grown into one of the country’s largest family-owned prepared-food companies.

6. Fratelli Beretta

Westend61 / Getty Images

The company behind Fratelli Beretta salami and prosciutto has also made charcuterie for Aldi. In 2024, Aldi recalled its Appleton Farms Gourmet Deli Selection in cooperation with Fratelli Beretta USA after a potential processing issue.

Fratelli Beretta has been in the meat business since 1812, when it got its start as a small meat-processing business in Italy. More than 200 years later, the company sells its own salami, prosciutto, mortadella and pancetta in the U.S., where it has been producing meat since the 1990s.

The Secret Behind Aldi’s Famous Frozen Pizzas

Aleksandr Fedosov / Getty Images

Mama Cozzi’s is one of Aldi’s best-known private labels, and at least some of its frozen pizzas have ties to the company behind DiGiorno. In 2015, USDA records show that Nation Pizza, a pizza manufacturer in Schaumburg, Illinois, produced Mama Cozzi’s Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza for Aldi.

Nation Pizza later became part of Nestlé. A 2021 USDA recall for DiGiorno Crispy Pan Crust Pepperoni Pizza identified the manufacturer as Nation Pizza Products and noted that the company was owned by Nestlé USA. Even the establishment number on the DiGiorno pizza, EST. 1682A, matches the one listed on the recalled Mama Cozzi’s pizzas. In other words, Aldi’s rising-crust pizza and DiGiorno pizza have come out of the same pizza plant.

Final Thoughts

These are only some of the Aldi manufacturers we could trace through public records. Who makes many of the grocer’s other private-label foods isn’t nearly as easy to pin down, so there may be more big names behind those Aldi labels that you just don’t know about yet.

Related: 12 Generic Store-Brand Items That Are Secretly Made by Major Brands

Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer, and whether you’re heading to a barbecue, squeezing in one last beach day or just enjoying the long weekend, a coffee run might be part of the plan. But before heading out for your usual latte or breakfast sandwich, you’ll want to know if Starbucks is open on Labor Day.

Labor Day falls on Monday, Sept. 7, and holiday schedules can sometimes affect when restaurants and coffee shops are open. Whether Starbucks is your first stop before a road trip or you’re looking for an afternoon caffeine boost between plans, here’s what to know before heading out.

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Is Starbucks Open on Labor Day?

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Yes, most Starbucks locations will be open on Labor Day 2026, so you can still stop by for your favorite coffee, Refresher or breakfast bite. However, hours can vary by location, and some stores may operate on a modified holiday schedule.

This is especially true for Starbucks locations inside grocery stores, malls and other businesses, which may follow the hours of the store or building they’re located in. That means the Starbucks you normally visit could have a different schedule than another location just a few miles away.

Related: I Tried Peet’s New Fall Menu—and My Favorite Item Was a Total Surprise

What Are Starbucks’ Labor Day Hours?

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There are no set Starbucks Labor Day hours across all locations. Many stores are expected to operate during their regular hours on Sept. 7, while some may open later or close earlier for the holiday.

Starbucks stores often open early, with many locations opening around 5 a.m. and some as early as 4:30 a.m. Many close between 8 and 10 p.m., though some stay open until 11 p.m. or later.

The easiest way to find out when your local Starbucks is open is to use the Starbucks store locator. Search by your city, ZIP code or address to find nearby cafes and see their individual hours. You can also check your store through the Starbucks mobile app, which is especially handy if you’re planning to order ahead.

It’s a good idea to check again on Labor Day before leaving home, since holiday hours can differ from a store’s usual Monday schedule. And if your regular Starbucks has reduced hours, another nearby location may have a different schedule.

Whether you’re starting Labor Day with an iced coffee or need an afternoon pick-me-up, chances are you won’t have to give up your Starbucks run. Just be sure to check your local store’s schedule before heading out.

Related: The Middle Eastern Way To Make Coffee 10x Better

Choosing a baby name as a parent comes with a lot of pressure, especially if you tend to be on the more indecisive side. But that’s exactly why the growing double name trend is perfect. Instead of having to narrow your choices down to just one first name, you can give your child a double-barrel name—essentially two first names that can be joined by a hyphen or separated with a space.

With this type of moniker rising in popularity, Parade spoke with Colleen Slagen, an expert baby name consultant and author of the book Naming Bebe: An Interactive Guide to Choosing a Baby Name You Love. She explains why double baby names are becoming more popular nationwide, and also how they’re shifting in style. Where you might be accustomed to double-barrel names like Billy-Bob or Mary-Jo, today’s trends point towards more unique options.

Slagen has her eye on one key aspect of this naming trend: gender neutral options that lead with a more unique first name, plus a more traditional second name. And there’s one double name in this vein she thinks people will start seeing everywhere. She also explains what it is about it that makes it so irresistible to expecting parents choosing monikers for their little ones.

Keep reading to learn more about this baby name trend and get inspiration for clever double-barrel names you can use for your child.

Related: We’re Obsessed With These 125 ‘Aesthetic’ Names for Baby Boys and Girls

The ‘Gorgeous’ Double Name Set To Dominate Baby Name Trends

Slagen acknowledges that there’s a lot of variety amongst rising double-barrel names, but she thinks one in particular will be especially popular in the coming months.

“Stylistically, the idea of pairing a boy-leaning or gender neutral name with a more traditional [second] name, like Scottie Jane, will be popular,” she states.

Per Ancestry.com, Scottie comes from the Latin term “Scotus,” meaning “Scottish” or “from Scotland,” making it especially meaningful for parents with a Scottish background. In contrast, the more traditional name Jane has a Hebrew root and means “God is gracious.”

Slagen previously told Parade that Scottie was amongst the quickest rising names of the last few years, for girls in particular.

“I’m not sure I have seen a name climb that fast,” she said at the time. In 2025, the name ranked 126th for baby girls compared to 202nd in 2024, per data from the Social Security Administration.

In 2023, influencer Allison Kuch named her daughter Scottie Bee, and just last year Pete Davidson named his daughter Scottie Rose. It seems that the pairing of Scottie and a more feminine and traditional second or middle name continues to be a popular choice for both everyday parents and celebrities.

Related: 260 Old-Fashioned Baby Names That Are Making a Major Comeback

Why Double-Barrel Baby Names Are Making a Massive Comeback

Slagen says that today’s double-barrel baby names give parents a way to choose classic names, but with a twist that makes the moniker more modern.

She adds that “traditional double names are alive and well in certain parts of the country,” like the South, but that more modern, minimalist double names like Scottie Jane, Etta James or Mary Campbell are starting to appear “in regions where double names historically have not been as popular.”

She chalks the shift up to many parents’ desire to be original.

“I think it’s a way to be distinctive or unique without going too far out there or inventing a new name,” Slagen tells Parade, adding, “It’s bold but still rooted in tradition.”

Related: Have a Wee Lad or Lass on the Way? Try These 150 Old English Baby Names on for Size

The Psychology of Baby Naming: What Makes a Name ‘Everywhere’?

Slagen says that celebrities and pop culture often influence baby name cycles, but for the double name trend, she attributes the growing popularity to cyclical naming trends and positive feedback loops.

“There is definitely an aspect of groupthink,” she says, adding, “Often people will say, ‘We chose this name, and we had no idea it was popular.’ But more than likely, you were drawn to it because it’s popular and you were hearing it out and about.”

She continues: “Familiarity breeds likeness… so once a name is popular, that feeds its spread.”

Related: 75 Most Popular Baby Names in the Midwest Right Now

15 Elegant Double Name Combinations To Inspire Your Search

Slagen shares these other 15 double names she’s loving right now. They all have special origins and meanings, per data from Ancestry.com and NameBerry.

1. Merritt Claire

This moniker stems from the Old French word “merite,” meaning “worth,” and the Latin term “clara,” meaning “bright” or “famous.” Give this name to your daughter, and she’ll have star power from birth.

2. Ada Clark

This studious name translates essentially to “noble scholar.” Ada stems from the Germanic word “adal,” meaning “noble,” and Clark comes from the Old English word “clerc,” for “scribe.” 

3. Romy Scott

This is a double-place name, with Romy meaning “from Rome” in Latin, and Scott meaning “from Scotland.” It’s a fun choice for parents with ties to those places.

It can also be connected to the ocean—since Romy can also be derived from the Latin word “rosmarinus,” meaning “dew of the sea.” 

4. Winnie Lou

Originally a shortened form of the English name Winifred, Winnie has gained traction as a name on its own. Jimmy Fallon gave the moniker to his daughter in 2013, and it means “gentle friend.”

In contrast, Lou means “renowned fighter,” so this double moniker holds a balance of strength and peacekeeping.

5. Levi Gray

If you want to use a top 20 baby name but put your own spin on it, adding a more unique second name is a great option.

Per Social Security Administration data, Levi was the 12th most popular name for baby boys in 2025, and it comes from the Hebrew word for “united.” Adding Gray to make it a double name helps it stand out while still being somewhat traditional.

6. Parker Anne

This traditionally masculine first name has also gained popularity as a girls’ name, and it means “park keeper.” Anne has Hebrew origins and means “grace.” It’s a great name option for families who love nature and the outdoors.

7. Sadie Bea

From the Hebrew name Sarah, Sadie means “princess,” and Bea comes from the Latin word “beatus,” meaning “blessed.” Slagen says this dual moniker basically translates to “blessed princess.”

8. Ruby Hayes

Pair this Latin gemstone name with the more masculine Hayes, which means “hedged area” from the Old English word “haeg.” It’s especially ideal for babies born in July, since the red ruby is that month’s birthstone.

9. August Lane

This moniker works for boys or girls, with the first half meaning “magnificent” from the Latin word “augustus.” The second half comes from the Old English word “lanu” for “path.”

10. Ella Moon

Ella has roots in multiple languages. It can stem from the German word “ali,” which means “all” or “completely.” But it can also have Hebrew roots from the name “El,” meaning “God,” or the Latin “ella,” meaning “she.” Moon as the second half of the moniker gives the whole name a dreamy vibe.

11. Micah June

Micah is a Hebrew name that means “who is like God.” Pair it with the more feminine June, which has roots in Roman mythology with Juno, the goddess of marriage and fertility.

12. Ziggy Roo

Ziggy has ties to the popular musician David Bowie and his alter-ego Ziggy Stardust. It’s thought to stem from the Germanic name “Sigmund,” meaning “victory.”

Roo is equally unique, not even cracking the top 1,000 names for babies in 2025. It can be considered a nickname for monikers like Ruth or Rupert, which come from the Hebrew word for “friend” and the Germanic word for “bright fame,” respectively. Parents can use this double-barrel name for girls or boys.

13. Bennett Blake

This double-B name could also be used for a boy or girl. The Latin Bennett means “blessed,” and different Old English translations have Blake meaning either “fair” or “dark,” so parents can pick the interpretation that best fits their little one.

14. Thomas Mack

This strong moniker merges the traditional Aramaic name Thomas, meaning “twin,” and the Scottish Mack, meaning “son of the hero.”

15. Theo Tate

Merging these Greek and Norse names gives your child a double moniker that essentially means “happy blessing,” says Slagen. It stems from Theodoros, which means “gift of God,” and Tati, which means “cheerful.”

How To Create Your Own Perfect Double Baby Name

When crafting your own double-barrel baby name, Slagen tells Parade you should “prioritize rhythm and ease of pronunciation.”

“If you say the name out loud, does it flow easily or do you get tripped up trying to connect the two names?” she adds.

The baby name expert also cautions against having the second name start with the same letter that the first name ends with.

“For example, Tatum Mae. The ‘m’ in Tatum and ‘m’ in Mae get jumbled together,” she states, citing Tatum Rose or Tatum Grace as better options.

Slagen recommends keeping the total number of syllables to four or less to avoid making the moniker too complex. You can choose to connect the names with a hyphen or not, and she adds that whether or not you also pick a middle name is up to you.

“If there is a meaningful family name you want to throw in there, go for it,” she suggests. “If you want to keep it simple, stick to just the double name.”

Up Next:

Related: 75 Most Popular Baby Names in France Right Now

Source:

• Colleen Slagen, who goes by @namingbebe on Instagram, is a baby name consultant and author of the book Naming Bebe: An Interactive Guide to Choosing a Baby Name You Love.

In 1971, Harry Nilsson introduced the world to “Me and My Arrow.”

The whimsical song featured a gentle melody with a sweet story of companionship and adventure highlighted by Nilsson’s distinctive vocals. More than five decades later, “Me and My Arrow” remains an enduring favorite, a musical fairytale that takes fans back in time.

Written by Nilsson for his 1970 concept album The Point, “Me and My Arrow” became a Top 40 hit, reaching No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1971. It was also the theme song of the 1971 animated TV movie The Point and later found an unexpected connection to Davy Jones of the Monkees.

RELATED: The Monkees ‘Best Song of All Time’ Became a No. 1 Hit  Twice

“Me and My Arrow” started out as a fable centered on Oblio, a kid with a round head in a world of pointy-headed people, and his trusty dog Arrow. Nilsson once revealed he came up with the idea for the story while walking in the woods.

“I was on acid, and I looked at the trees, and I realized that they all came to points,” he once said, according to Rolling Stone. “I thought, ‘Oh! Everything has a point, and if it doesn’t, then there’s a point to it.'”

In the fable, Oblio is teased by the pointy-headed people. “The only real friend he had was his dog, Arrow,” Nilsson shared.

The Point, the animated ABC movie that showcased “Me and My Arrow,” featured Dustin Hoffman as a narrator and Mike Lookinland (Bobby Brady from The Brady Bunch) as the voice of Oblio.

Not only did the song become a TV film, but it became the centerpiece of a London stage musical starring Davy Jones as Oblio and fellow Monkee Micky Dolenz as the son of an evil count. Jones also recorded “Me and My Arrow” for the original cast soundtrack to The Point.

During a 1977 appearance on the UK series Our Show, Jones and Dolenz talked about their connection to Nilsson and revealed why they were invited to star in the stage show.

“Harry Nilsson, who wrote The Point, knew both of us personally. He used to write some of the Monkees songs years and years ago,” Dolenz shared. “One of his first hits ever as a writer was one of the Monkees songs, ‘Cuddly Toy.’”

Dolenz also described the show as a “musical fantasy,” while Jones noted the production required “a lot of preparation.” Jones also introduced fans to the puppet version of the dog Arrow that was used in the play.

Decades later, “Me and My Arrow” takes fans back to an unforgettable era of music, where an offbeat story could become pop gold.

Related: 55 Years Ago, This 1971 Soft Rock Hit Reached No. 1 and Became a Timeless Classic

There was a time when cruise dining meant towering midnight buffets, rigid set seatings, and banquet-style prime rib. But over the past decade, a quiet culinary revolution has transformed the high seas.

Today, cruise ships are attracting world-renowned celebrity chefs, debuting immersive dining tech, and rolling out signature restaurant concepts that easily rival top tables in New York, London, and Tokyo.

“Cruise lines are doing an incredible job of building out their culinary offerings onboard,” says Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic. “Over the past decade, lines have really leaned into their specialty dining offerings—both to differentiate themselves from other cruise brands and also to ensure guests have a wide range of offerings when they’re onboard. From partnering with celebrity chefs to building out only-at-sea dining options, there’s a ton to be excited about.”

In fact, dinner reservations are no longer just an afterthought—they may even be driving travel bookings.

“For avid cruisers, especially those who are loyal to particular cruise lines, onboard restaurants can certainly help to drive bookings—whether they’re looking to try their favorite line’s newest restaurant, or they already know how much they love certain restaurants,” explains McDaniel. “And for more casual cruisers, while it might not be the sole driving factor of a booking, it can certainly be a key consideration—especially when choosing to book on a brand-new or newly-refurbished ship. Consider, for example, it might be hard to get to or get a reservation for a Nobu restaurant on land. But on a Crystal Cruise, you can dine at his restaurant, Umi Uma.”

Whether you want to linger over fresh pasta all evening, sip an aperitivo on an alfresco rooftop, or watch culinary theater unfold beside your table, here are 10 incredible cruise ship restaurants foodies are dying to try right now.

Related: 11 Best European River Cruises for Unforgettable Family Vacations, According to Experts

1. Eataly (MSC Cruises—MSC World America) Dining room of Eataly restaurant on MSC World America with wooden tables, teal chairs, and hanging greenery overhead.

MSC Cruises

The global Italian emporium has officially set sail, and aboard MSC World America, it is an absolute showstopper. Designed with airy light-wood accents and lush greenery, this is hands-down the standout specialty venue on the ship. The appetizers set a high bar—particularly the creamy burrata, served alongside a vibrant basil purée that rivals anything found in Milan. The spaghetti carbonara hits every comfort-food note with rich, authentic perfection, but the undisputed grand finale is the viral tiramisu: brought to the table encased in an acrylic collar that you lift off with your camera ready to capture the decadent layers cascading across the plate. Paired with attentive servers who will enthusiastically serenade your table for celebrations, it brings genuine Italian hospitality straight to the Caribbean.

Related: The New Megaship Delivering European Style and Big Value for the Whole Family

2. Royal Railway – Legend Station (Royal Caribbean—Legend of the Seas) Royal Railway – Legend Station – Deck 6 Midship Portside Legend of the Seas – Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has mastered immersive storytelling with its high-tech dining train cars, and this second installment takes diners on an embellished recreation of Marco Polo’s epic return along the ancient Silk and Spice routes. Guests take their seats inside a meticulously detailed, historic train carriage surrounded by ultra-high-definition digital “window” screens that smoothly roll past sweeping landscapes synchronized with each course. The food is an explosion of exotic spices and regional flavors, but the live-action performance by the train conductor ties the entire multi-sensory adventure together.

Related: Every Incredible New Surprise Aboard Royal Caribbean’s Latest Megaship, Legend of the Seas

3. Hollywood Land Supper Club (Royal Caribbean—Legend of the Seas) Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas preview photos Hollywoodland Supper Club

Royal Caribbean

Tucked away in a quiet, ambient enclave of Legend of the Seas, this sultry venue is a stylish homage to the golden age of cinema. Channeling the effortless glamour of mid-century date nights, the supper club pairs high-end cuts and seafood with craft cocktail pairings and sultry, live jazz entertainment. With plush booths, warm low lighting, and vintage Hollywood design accents, it’s easily the most sophisticated hideaway on the ship for cruisers who want to dress up and turn dinner into a full evening event.

Related: Royal Caribbean Just Revealed its Most Ambitious Entertainment Roster to Date for the New Legend of the Seas

4. Emeril’s Coastal Seafood (Carnival Cruise Line—Carnival Festivale)

Carnival Cruise Line

Chef Emeril Lagasse has already charmed Carnival cruisers with fresh raw-bar seafood and warm beignets at his onboard bistros, but his upcoming concept aboard the Carnival Festivale in 2027 is his most ambitious yet. Dubbed Emeril’s Coastal Seafood, the destination venue weaves together the coastal influences of his culinary life—tracing his roots from fresh Massachusetts seafood to soulful New Orleans Creole techniques. Designed as a flagship culinary destination, Emeril has made no secret of his sky-high aspirations, declaring he is aiming to earn cruising’s very first Michelin star at sea.

Related: Carnival Announces a Massive Overhaul to Onboard Dining—Here’s What’s Changing

5. Trattoria Rossa (Celebrity Cruises—Celebrity Solstice) The elegant interior of an upscale restaurant featuring plush green velvet booths, tan leather chairs, and marble-topped tables under a warm, geometric-patterned wood ceiling.

Celebrity Cruises

Introduced as part of Celebrity Cruises‘ fleet modernizations, Trattoria Rossa brings intimate, regional Italian trattoria warmth to the sea. The experience leans into cozy tableside elements, featuring freshly tossed Caesar salads and massive wheels of Parmesan grated right beside your table. With comfortable, colorful banquettes and inviting lighting, it feels like an authentic trattoria in Florence. Best of all, no one rushes you out the door. It naturally invites that European tradition of lingering over velvety tiramisu and piping-hot espresso for hours, making it an ideal anchor for slow travel conversations.

Related: Celebrity Unveils the Newly Reimagined Solstice in Alaska and It’s a Super-Chic Way to See the Last Frontier

6. Bora (Celebrity Cruises—Celebrity Xcel) Outdoor dining space at Bora aboard Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Xcel.

Meghann Foye

McDaniel highlights this breezy alfresco venue as one of her absolute personal favorites across the industry. “I love Celebrity’s new restaurant, Bora, which offers some pretty excellent Mediterranean food in an open-air venue,” says McDaniel. “I especially like that the cruise line has made it an experience—you show up a little early and enjoy cocktails, like a Hugo Spritz, chat with fellow diners, and enjoy the weather before you head in. If it’s chilly, your waiter will bring you a blanket while you dine. It feels both upscale and chill at the same time. It’s special.”

Related: A First Look at Celebrity Xcel, the Cruise Line’s Most Inspired Ship Yet

7. The Catch by Rudi (Princess Cruises—Sun Princess & Star Princess)

Meghann Foye

Princess Cruises bills its new Sphere-class vessels as the foodiest ships afloat, and legendary Master Chef Rudi Sodamin makes a commanding case for that title with The Catch by Rudi. Known for taking classic seafood staples and elevating them with contemporary flair, Sodamin’s menu delivers standout raw-bar towers, delicate tuna tartare, and an exceptionally well-executed surf-and-turf. The airy, nautical room feels spacious rather than crowded, creating an energized atmosphere tailored for lively groups who want to order several bottles of crisp white wine and share fresh seafood platters.

Related: This Might Be the Foodiest Cruise Ship in Europe—And It Sails From Rome to Athens

8. Love by Britto (Princess Cruises—Sun Princess)

Meghann Foye

Perched at the aft of Sun Princess on Deck 17, Love by Britto merges fine dining with playful modern art. Created as a collaboration between pop artist Romero Britto and Master Chef Sodamin, the romantic boutique venue boasts panoramic ocean wake views bathed in golden sunset light. Guests dine on a seven-course prix-fixe menu surrounded by vivid pop-art sculptures and cheeky heart motifs woven into the dish presentations, starting with pink bubbly champagne cocktails and finishing with warm chocolate fondue.

9. Enchanté & Palo Steakhouse (Disney Cruise Line—Disney Wish) Enchante is an adult-only restaurant on Disney’s Wish Class ships.

Disney Cruise Line

9. Enchanté & Palo Steakhouse (Disney Cruise Line — Disney Wish, Disney Treasure & Disney Destiny)

Disney Cruise Line proves adult-exclusive dining can hold its own against the finest kitchens in the world. For an ultra-luxurious French feast, Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement features multi-course tasting menus conceptualized by the three-Michelin-starred chef, wrapped in subtle, gilded homages to Beauty and the Beast’s Lumiere. For lovers of classic northern Italian cuisine, Palo Steakhouse remains the gold standard of adult Disney cruising, famous for its decadent chocolate soufflés, prime cuts, and sweeping floor-to-ceiling ocean views.

Related: 9 Best Things To Do For Grandparents On Disney Cruise Line

10. Tamara (Norwegian Cruise Line— Norwegian Aura)

NCL

While Norwegian Cruise Line made waves with interactive pan-Asian dining at Marco Polo Fire & Ice on Norwegian Aqua, its upcoming sister ship is taking things in a rare, exciting direction. McDaniel notes that one of the upcoming debuts she is most eager to sample is Tamara, an upscale Indian restaurant launching on Norwegian Aura. “Surprisingly few cruise lines have dedicated Indian restaurants, despite large kitchen staffs that often feature Indian chefs,” McDaniel points out. With open tandoor ovens and rich regional curries, it aims to fill a major culinary gap on the ocean.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Next Mega-Ship Is Bringing a Massive Dining First to Sea