分类： entertainment

The Klaistow Farm near Berlin has transformed into a vibrant celebration of pumpkins, drawing thousands of visitors to its annual Pumpkin Festival. Now in its 22nd year, the event showcases over 100,000 pumpkins of 500 varieties from around the world, each meticulously labeled with its name and origin. The festival, which began in 2004 as Germans embraced the American tradition of Halloween, has grown into a cultural phenomenon, attracting up to 12,000 visitors on weekends and 5,000 on weekdays. This year’s theme, “Women’s Power,” features 15 larger-than-life pumpkin sculptures depicting iconic figures such as Frida Kahlo, Pippi Longstocking, and Cleopatra. The festival also offers a culinary journey with pumpkin-inspired dishes, from stuffed pumpkin to pumpkin crème brûlée. Families can explore the farm’s winding paths, marveling at creative displays like Marge Simpson’s hair made of winter squash and Elsa from “Frozen” adorned in pale yellow pumpkins. The event not only celebrates the pumpkin’s versatility but also highlights its historical journey from America to Europe, as recounted by Antje Winkelmann, co-owner of the family-run farm. Visitors can purchase 30 different types of pumpkins and indulge in a variety of pumpkin delicacies, making it a must-visit autumn destination.

Sam Ryder, the UK’s Eurovision sensation, has embarked on a transformative journey, both personally and musically, culminating in his latest album, *Heartland*. After achieving global fame with his Eurovision hit *Space Man*, Ryder faced a series of challenges that tested his resilience and authenticity. His debut album, rushed in the aftermath of his Eurovision success, received mixed reviews, with critics labeling it as uninspired. The situation worsened when his record label dismissed the team that had supported his rise, prompting Ryder to leave the label and pursue an independent path. This decision, while empowering, led to a period of self-doubt and depression. Ryder retreated from the spotlight, locking away his phone and questioning his worth as an artist. However, a move to Nashville, the spiritual home of country music, marked the beginning of his recovery. Inspired by the city’s creative energy, Ryder found solace in long, solitary walks and reconnected with his faith and partner, Lois Gaskin-Barber. These experiences shaped *Heartland*, an album that reflects a newfound maturity and authenticity. Departing from the retro rock of *Space Man*, Ryder explores a more introspective sound, blending soulful vocals with a desert aesthetic he calls ‘Frontier Soul.’ Tracks like *Armour* and *Better Man* delve into themes of vulnerability and resilience, while others pay tribute to his enduring relationship with Gaskin-Barber. Despite the struggles, Ryder remains optimistic, viewing his trials as a test of his positivity. ‘What is optimism, if it’s not tested?’ he reflects. With *Heartland*, Ryder has not only reclaimed his artistic identity but also solidified his place as a musician of substance and depth.

The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games have revealed their official posters, showcasing vibrant and symbolic designs that embody the spirit of the host cities. Created by Italian artists Olimpia Zagnoli and Carolina Altavilla, the posters were unveiled on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the lead-up to the global event. Posters have been a cherished tradition since the early 20th century, serving as both artistic expressions and historical artifacts of the Games. Zagnoli’s design, titled ‘Olympic Vision,’ features a central figure peering through glasses shaped like Olympic rings, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The artist explained that her work reflects Milan’s iconic style and Cortina’s alpine charm while celebrating the unity of athletes and spectators. Altavilla’s untitled poster for the Paralympic Games captures the dynamic energy of all six Paralympic Winter sports, rendered in a striking palette of pinks, blues, and chartreuse. The design includes Milan’s Duomo cathedral in the foreground and incorporates the ‘Agitos,’ Latin for ‘I move,’ as a symbol of Paralympic movement. Large-scale versions of the posters, alongside the official torches, will be displayed at Milan’s Triennale design museum and other venues during the Games. Smaller prints are available for purchase at 35 euros (approximately $41). This follows the organizers’ earlier release of 10 artistic posters by a diverse group of artists, which are also on exhibit at the Triennale.