As the holidays approach, you might feel a sudden surge of stress to get your gifts, meals, decor, and travel plans in order. As an antidote to all this hustle and bustle, delve into this month’s issue of American Lifestyle magazine. Learn about a town that embraces the festivities to their fullest, get to know an artist with a knack for seasonal scenery, sample two simple brunch recipes that are perfect for chilly weather, and learn about a bakery that makes sweet treats for the holiday rush.
You may not have heard of Grapevine, Texas, but around Christmas, the city takes holiday celebrations to the next level. Discover what makes this locale so unforgettable, including its parades, decorations, and over 1,400 events.
Next, meet highly regarded artist Michael Storrings, who is known for his signature holiday and city-themed scenes. You may have spotted his works on anything from ornaments and puzzles to book covers and more. Learn about his process and what inspires him.
While the most popular foods of the holiday season include stuffed turkey and cranberry sauce, there are other ways to indulge during this time. Try these easy-to-make and lip-smacking recipes from The Brunch Club cookbook, featuring morning takes on cake and pie.
Finally, step behind the counter at a popular Philadelphia bakery. Dan Martino, founder of Little Susie’s Coffee & Pie, shares the story behind founding his business and gives a glimpse into what makes its savory and sweet treats alike worth lining up for.
May these articles be a springboard into the joy of the holiday season! As always, it’s a pleasure to send you this magazine.
The holiday season evokes images of snowflakes, sleigh rides, and coziness, but it comes in all shapes and sizes across the country. One amazing example of this can be found in North Texas, where the city of Grapevine shines all season long.
Grapevine was settled in 1844, one year prior to the Republic of Texas becoming America’s twenty-eighth state, and it became a town a decade later. Why the peculiar name? It was a tribute to the wild mustang grapes that flourished in the area during its infancy. Perhaps not surprisingly, Grapevine has long been a popular wine town. In fact, it’s proud to have four sister cities across the globe, from Mexico to Australia, three of which share a tradition of winemaking.
Today, Grapevine literally couldn’t be more convenient for visitors since it’s home to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, the second-largest and second-busiest airport in the country. And being approximately twenty minutes away from both Fort Worth and Dallas allows easy access to a major metropolitan area.
Come November, Grapevine transforms into a magical Christmas mecca as the official Christmas Capital of Texas®. Of course, everything is bigger in the Lone Star State, and Grapevine’s holiday season is no different, hosting more than 1,400 events over the forty days. And the quality of experience matters as much as quantity here: Newsweek readers chose Grapevine as America’s best Christmas town in both 2024 and 2026. (There was no vote in 2025.)
The following travel guide highlights just some of the many things you can see and do in this enchanting southern city to maximize your merriment during the holidays.
Light up the night
The festivities here officially kick off with the annual Carol of Lights, held on the Monday before Thanksgiving. You can expect to be dazzled by over one million lights, live performances, and the overall festive feel of the celebration as you stroll down historic Main Street (which is closed off to traffic for the event). Food and drinks are plentiful, of course, as are kids’ activities. You’ll even see Santa and live reindeer!
Ten days later (December 3 this year), the city’s Parade of Lights rolls down the very same quaint street. This is the largest lighted parade in North Texas, featuring over one hundred floats, marching bands, and more.
You can also look to the skies for festive excitement since Grapevine’s Merry & Bright Drone Shows are back on the first two Mondays in December. Be sure to show up early to get a good viewing spot on Main Street, then ooh and ahh as you witness over four hundred drones create dazzling images in the sky that dance to Christmas music.
Enjoy an old-fashioned holiday
If you’d like to experience life from a century or two ago, you’ll find it in Grapevine. One notable example is the historic Palace Theatre, a restored movie institution that’s on the National Register of Historic Places. Where else could you view both holiday classics and modern favorites, in a 1940s vibe, for only ten dollars? Plus, the theater offers live holiday performances during the season, including crooner tribute shows.
To party like it’s 1899, check out historic Nash Farm, a working homestead in the heart of Grapevine. Built in 1859, it embraces its agricultural heritage with interpretive programs, tours, and events throughout the year. However, the farm is particularly magical come the holiday season. In December, you can lose yourself in various crafts, from sewing your own mittens and creating a Victorian-style ornament to hand-printing Christmas cards and baking cookies.
Ride the rails
One of the biggest draws to Grapevine any time of year is the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, whose century-old coach cars take travelers through six different cities along its Cotton Belt Route. After Thanksgiving, though, the railroad transforms into Santa’s North Pole Express, complete with sing-alongs and appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Tickets sell out fast, so get yours early if you plan to visit. Would you prefer an excursion geared more toward grown-ups? Then hop aboard the railroad’s Christmas Wine Train for a festive ride for adults.
Hit the ice
Granted, Grapevine may not normally be a winter wonderland—highs are normally in the 50s and 60s come November and December—but that doesn’t mean you can’t have festive frozen fun. The crown jewel of such an experience here is Gaylord Texan Resort’s annual ICE! extravaganza, which features amazing hand-carved sculptures made from more than two million pounds of colorful ice. In addition, there are over two million lights throughout the building to ensure that the holiday vibe continues wherever you trek. But that’s not all: There’s plenty of food, drinks, and shows and events, from gingerbread house making to ice tubing, to keep you and your family entertained for hours.
For a little outdoor icy enchantment, head over to the Peace Plaza Ice Rink, which is easily found near the city’s live sixty-foot-tall Christmas tree. As the largest outdoor rink in North Texas, it has earned the nickname “The Rockefeller Center of the Southwest,” making it a place not to be missed, whether you’re skating under the glow of the giant evergreen or casually people-watching.
Of course, buying presents (for others or yourself) is part and parcel of this time of year. And thanks to the vast number of shopping opportunities in Grapevine, you can literally spend all day doing it. For example, in the aforementioned historic Main Street district alone, you’ll find dozens of establishments to shop at in a charming setting, from boutique clothing stores to gift shops to bookstores. One fascinating example is Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery, where you can make your own ornament or snowman using a 2,000-degree furnace! And when you need to take a breather, there are dozens more places to get food and drink.
For an even more personal experience, check out the Grapevine Christmas Market in the Cotton Belt Railroad Historic District. At this open-air, European-style marketplace, which debuted last year, you can shop for local goods, get photos with Santa, and more.
Just ten minutes northeast, continue your holiday shopping spree indoors at Grapevine Mills. With over one hundred retailers at this mall set over its 1.8 million-square-foot facility, you’re sure to find gifts you didn’t know your loved ones needed. You won’t believe the variety: You can find everything from high-end clothing outlets to kid-friendly stores, all in one place.
Perhaps even more impressive here, especially during the holidays, are the attractions. Catch the latest holiday flick at Grapevine Mills’s twenty-four-screen AMC theater, or test your skills by trying its escape game. For the kids (and kids at heart), head over to LEGOLAND Discovery Center for its Holiday Bricktacular, greet aquatic life at SEA LIFE Aquarium, or get lost in immersive, interactive, family-friendly adventures at the wildly popular Meow Wolf.
Grapevine, Texas, pulls out all the stops during the holiday season. With its magical mix of traditional charm, jaw-dropping events, and ample shopping experiences, it more than earns its title as the Lone Star State’s top holiday destination.
For more info, visit christmascapitaloftexas.com
New York City artist Michael Storrings offers a glimpse into the inspiration that sparks his beloved holiday artwork—festive pieces that adorn books, puzzles, ornaments, and more.
What motivated you to become an artist?
I’ve loved drawing since childhood, but I didn’t always plan to become an artist. After a summer art program at Fredonia College sparked my passion for art as self-expression, I decided to attend Parsons School of Design.
I began my professional journey in publishing after finishing those studies, working as a book designer. At the same time, I illustrated for magazines and books. I started licensing my work for ornaments around 2005, and that led to books and other products like puzzles. I am currently the senior vice president, executive art director of the St. Martin’s Publishing Group and continue to illustrate and license my work.
Who were some of your early creative influences?
I have to say that my biggest influence didn’t come from other artists but from my high school art teacher, who broadened my horizons beyond my hometown of Syracuse by taking our class on art trips into the city. She also encouraged me to join a summer arts program and assisted with my art college applications.
In terms of artistic influences, I especially appreciate folk and outsider artists like Grandma Moses and Clementine Hunter, as well as L. S. Lowry.
Would you summarize the scope of your different art mediums?
My artistic range is extensive, featuring vibrant and detailed illustrations that depict different seasons and cities across the globe. I often refer to it as “art that celebrates.” I strive to convey the spirit, energy, and joyful moments found in urban environments, and my work is widely licensed across many products, including puzzles, ornaments, home decor items, stationery, and books.
What do you find engaging about your primary subjects, holiday imagery and city architecture?
I’m inspired by life’s small moments, such as taking a walk with a dog or a baby or seeing a couple in the park. My creations often have a touch of fantasy, allowing me to build an ideal world where I can escape. This is why holidays and city life frequently appear as themes in my work.
Would you explain your method for creating an art piece?
I start out by doing quick pencil sketches of the layout and specific elements of the intended image. Then I do research, take photos, and sketch the image in pencil on watercolor paper. Even though my art seems simple, I want to make sure that I have the details correct so I can capture the intended expression.
What would you consider your biggest accomplishment?
I’ve built a great career in publishing, designing covers for best-selling authors, and I also take pride in seeing my artwork featured on puzzles. It’s incredibly rewarding to have so many people appreciate my artistic voice.
For more info, visit storrings.com
As you prepare for the holidays, you might think first of buying gifts, planning parties, and displaying decor. But in all the hustle and bustle, don’t forget the smaller, more intimate moments of this time: enjoying calm mornings with the people you love. Bake the enclosed brunch recipes, which feature tasty seasonal ingredients, to help make these simple occasions feel far more special.
This fruit-forward cake recipe works any time of year, but it is impeccable around the holidays.
Crisp, oaty, and reminiscent of warm fruit pie, a classic treat has been tailored into a morning indulgence.
Recipes from The Brunch Club: Delicious Recipes and Hosting Tips for Feeding Friends by Georgia Hearn. Published by OH. Photography © Danielle Wood 2026.
A frangipane tart is my all-time favorite pudding and this is the brunch version. The vanilla and almond sponge topped with flaked almonds and pear slices make it particularly aesthetically pleasing, so it’s perfect for hosting. You can swap the fruit throughout the year, depending on what’s in season, and play around with jam pairings.
SERVES 6–8
The ingredients of this nostalgic pudding lend themselves so nicely to a brunch recipe, with fruit and oats playing the starring roles. Paired alongside cold soy yogurt for a perfect contrast, the buttery caramel, crispy crumble topping is so delicious! I think this recipe is wonderful served hot, warm or cold.
SERVES 10
Dan Martino, founder of Little Susie’s Coffee & Pie in Philadelphia, offers a look behind the counter at his bustling bakery and shares how it keeps up with the high-demand holiday season.
What inspired you to open this business?
I’ve worked in the food industry since I was a teenager, including small snack bars and industrial hospital kitchens. I spent over a decade after college working behind the curtain for a restaurant company as their graphic designer. I even tried (and failed) to run a soup truck.
I also come from a family of cooks, from my parents to my great-grandparents. That’s where my center of gravity originates: their homemade Pennsylvania Dutch recipes of roasts, sauces, stocks, soup, and bread (with big hunks of butter). I recognized along the way that most people only want to eat what makes them feel good and that the best restaurants do one thing very well.
But the true inspiration to open the bakery came from the road. I spent years touring the country as a drummer for TJ Kong and the Atomic Bomb. In every town we played, the local coffee shop was the heartbeat of the community. It was where we met the most interesting people and felt the true vibe of the neighborhood. I wanted to bottle that magic and bring it back to my area, creating a space where people felt that same sense of connection. I also thought that if I kept it small and simple, it would be easy for me to manage.
What were your first products, and how have they evolved?
We wanted to focus on high-quality, fast-and-friendly options that didn’t compromise on flavor and were made in-house. Coffee was the easy part, but introducing our hand pies took a few weeks to get right. Once we dialed those in, lines started forming. The Pork Roll & Cheese Pie and Honeycrisp Apple Pie were the cornerstones of Little Susie’s menu right away and still are today.
We had a larger menu when we started, which included things like bagels, oatmeal, cupcakes, and danish, but over time, the pies became our focus. In 2025, we shifted entirely to pies and a few simple bakery items like chocolate chip cookies. We also have very popular dog treats made from piecrust.
Aside from the classics, which products are currently winning over your customers?
Our savory expansion has really surprised people. The Sausage Egg and Cheese and Chicken Pot Pie versions are hard to keep in stock. Mushroom & Swiss and Potato Cheddar are solid vegetarian favorites. We come up with special varieties for holidays like our Stuffed Turkey Pie for Thanksgiving and our Chocolate-Covered Strawberry one for Valentine’s Day.
How does the business transform during the holiday season?
From the first day of school through Thanksgiving, it is pure pie season. We can barely keep the shelves stocked. As we meet more neighbors and open new locations, we get to become part of people’s new traditions. Pie isn’t anything new. But we hear stories from regulars about how thrilled people were to try our pies at their holiday parties—and we then start to see those people come back year after year. It warms the heart.
Your website mentions that you prioritize using local ingredients. How do you approach your supply chain?
Supporting the domestic economy and community growers is a core value of our brand. We’re incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by fantastic farms. I make it a point of pride to source from them whenever possible and strive to buy American. There’s no question that when it comes to produce, fresh and local is unbeatable. Anyone who cooks would agree.
So we get local ingredients like mushrooms from Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, chicken from central Pennsylvania, and apples from nearby orchards. But we do occasionally have to go beyond the Northeast. We’ve made some incredible pies with cured meats and olive oil from Italy, for example. I always want my customers to know that what they are getting is top-shelf.
Little Susie’s is known for its iconic walk-up windows. What was the strategy behind that design?
The windows were born out of necessity, but they became a great asset. We opened our first location just months before the pandemic. We had to pivot instantly: close down or open the windows. It turned out to be a blessing. Doing so removed the barrier between us and the sidewalk (and our customers). Now it’s a quintessential part of the experience. Parents with strollers and neighbors walking their dogs can grab a coffee and a pie without missing a beat. It has turned a simple transaction into a community social hour.
What does the future hold for Little Susie’s?
The momentum is incredible. We opened our fifth location in early 2026, and we are officially moving into franchising to bring Little Susie’s to other states. We’ve also invested heavily in our catering side with a vintage truck for events. As for the menu? The sky’s the limit. We’re always dreaming up new recipes to keep our customers excited.
For more info, visit littlesusies.com
