Spring/Summer 2025 Story Starters — U.S.

NORTH AMERICA 

 

Baltimore, MD – www.baltimore.org  

Baltimore always seems to be hosting an abundance of events, but some of the best parties happen at AFRAM, the East Coast’s largest celebration of African American culture. The event typically occurs during August in Druid Hill Park, complete with music, food and family-friendly events. Also taking place in August, Vegan SoulFest was created by the co-owner of vegan hot spot Land of Kush as a way to make vegan food more accessible. The event combines delicious food, upbeat music and educational speakers.

 With the warmer seasons rapidly approaching, visitors are encouraged to discover the BoP Pass as a means to explore Baltimore’s rich Black history and culture. In addition to providing coupons for discounted admission to Baltimore museums and special offers from local businesses, the pass highlights the many free locales where you can deepen your knowledge of famous African American figures, such as Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman and the celebrities that once occupied Pennsylvania Avenue Black Arts & Entertainment District.   

Baltimore also boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, including museums, monuments and historic sites, that celebrate our African American heritage. Be sure to visit the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, the only wax museum in the country dedicated to African Americans. The Reginald F. Lewis Museum showcases history and accomplishments of Maryland African Americans. And the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum celebrates the legacy of Frederick Douglass, a famous writer and abolitionist who escaped slavery in Baltimore.  

Cincinnati, OH/Northern Kentucky – www.visitcincy.com  

Along the Ohio River is where the north (Cincinnati) meets the south (Kentucky) and the two combine to form the iconic John A. Roebling Bridge. During June, the banks of the river will host the art installation “The American Manifest,” created by Charles Gaines, one of the foremost conceptual artists of the 21st century.    

The project was designed for Governor’s Island in Manhattan and The Banks of Cincinnati, because of the roles these rivers played in the transatlantic slave trade. Confronting and exploring complex themes — American capitalism, born on the backs of enslaved African people; Manifest Destiny and colonial imperialism; and racism — the project contains three exhibits: “Moving Chains,” a massive outdoor art installation making its way to Cincinnati this summer; “Roots,” coming to the Cincinnati Art Museum; and “Manifestos Four,” an original musical composition to be performed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.  

“Moving Chains” — a monumental, 110-foot-long kinetic sculpture — evokes the hull of a ship and features nine massive overhead chains in motion as visitors walk through. Passersby can enter the structure from the riverside to experience the sights and sounds of its rumbling metal. Positioned along the banks of the Ohio River, it will underline the historical significance of the North-South line that played a pivotal role in American slavery, as well as the nation’s economic, judicial and political frameworks that continue the legacy of slavery today. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiehoOlof1Y  

This year also marks the 100th anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel “The Great Gatsby,” whose main character is loosely based on Newport, Kentucky, bootlegger George Remus. Guests of the Newport Gangster Tour can learn about the history of Newport — the original Las Vegas — and the gamblers and mobsters who created the first “Sin City” and lured in such famous names as Frank Sinatra, along with organized crime. Channel the spirit of Gatsby while sipping on century-old bourbon, gin and more at Revival Vintage Spirits. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, the country’s second-oldest zoo, celebrates 150 years. The zoo’s world-renowned Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) is recognized for its work with plants and its cryobank. 

Chattanooga, TN – www.visitchattanooga.com  

With its alluring downtown, riverfront charm and abundance of restaurants and attractions, Chattanooga is Tennessee’s Scenic City. It also moves to its own beat with a variety of music festivals and gatherings. The free Nightfall Concert Series occurs every Friday starting in early May and continues through late August. Riverfront Nights occurs during “Fourteen Saturdays of Summer” from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend at Ross’s Landing along the banks of the Tennessee River. Chattanooga, also known for its robust busker program, features vetted and talented street performers scattered throughout the city. Spring also marks the return of Chattanooga Market, ranked among the “Top 10 Public Markets in America” by Frommers. Boasting more than 50 farms and 130 local artisans, the weekly market features a variety of produce, beef and poultry, cheeses and more. Unique crafts, arts, baked goods and live music make this a must-stop on Sunday mornings or afternoons.    

Greater Louisville, KY – www.gotolouisville.com  

During spring 2025, Louisville offers a lively array of events. Don’t miss the exciting Derby Festival starting April 19, featuring parades, concerts and local festivities leading up to the iconic Kentucky Derby, one of the world’s most-prestigious horse racing events. Enjoy the Thunder Over Louisville on April 12, a spectacular air show and fireworks display that kicks off Derby celebrations. One of the most-well-known novels in history turns 100 years old during April 2025, marking a century since F. Scott Fitzgerald published “The Great Gatsby.” Coming off a record-setting year, the Kentucky Derby Museum will be marking four decades this spring. To celebrate the occasion, a $2.3 million upgrade to The Greatest Race, a 360-degree 4K film, will feature remastered video, updated technology and enhanced lighting and sound. Louisville Tourism and Churchill Downs are also hosting a Great Gatsby-inspired Opening Night on April 26 to kick off the 2025 live racing season and the celebrations leading up to the 151st Kentucky Derby. On April 19, explore the KMAC Couture fashion show, which is a unique blend of fashion and art at the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft.   

Celebrate the grandeur of the Kentucky Derby on May 3. On June 28, Bourbon City becomes Beer City with the annual Kentucky Craft Bash at Waterfront Park, with over 50 local breweries serving over 150 different varieties of beer. Taking place in Old Louisville’s scenic Central Park, the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, from May 28 through Aug. 10, continues its decades-long tradition of providing free live-action performances of some of Shakespeare’s greatest works. 

Greater Miami, FL – www.miamiandbeaches.com  

Miami’s late-spring 2025 calendar brims with vibrant and diverse events. 

From May 2–4, Greater Miami & Miami Beach again hosts one of the 22 glittering Grand Prix races of Formula 1, which marks its 75th anniversary. The Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix at the Miami International Autodrome — a 3.36-mile track built specifically for F1 races — wraps around Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. More than 20 of the world’s best drivers and top teams will compete in 1,000-horsepower open-wheel cars over 19 corners and three straights. Fans can catch the action from one of 11 grandstands set up on the course, a variety of luxury hospitality tents or the famous Marina area.  

On May 24 and 25, the Hyundai Air & Sea Show features breathtaking aerial and sea demonstrations by military and civilian aircraft. Then from May 29–June 1, the PARAISO Miami Swim Week highlights the latest in swimwear fashion with runway shows, exclusive parties and pop-up shops and attracts designers, models and fashionistas from around the world.  

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ kicks off June 14 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, marking a historic moment in international soccer as the tournament debuts its new expanded format. Watch with us as the world’s most-prestigious international club soccer tournament makes its groundbreaking expansion when32 elite teams gather for an unprecedented competition. This monthlong soccer spectacle showcases such powerhouse clubs as European giants Real Madrid, Manchester City and Bayern Munich; South American titans Fluminense, Boca Juniors and River Plate; and host nation representative Inter Miami CF. The tournament features champions and top performers from all six international confederations: UEFA (Europe), CONMEBOL (South America), Concacaf (North and Central America), AFC (Asia), CAF (Africa) and OFC (Oceania).  

In July, the city kicks off Miami Spa Months by offering luxury spa experiences at discounted rates. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating treatments at top spas throughout the city. On July 4, Miami’s stunning beaches and waterfronts host memorable fireworks displays, providing the perfect backdrop for Independence Day celebrations. 

Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation, Missouri – www.visitozarks.org  

When many travelers are flocking to see the cherry blossoms this spring, other are heading to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in the Ozarks to witness the blossoming of thousands of dogwood trees. As spectacular as any national park, Dogwood Canyon is a 10,000-acre private nature reserve located in Lampe and is a part of the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation attractions, which connect people with the great outdoors while supporting conservation, wildlife and positive environmental change. The Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield is among the only places in the Midwest where visitors can have an immersive shark experience as well as a penguin encounter. It also features life-size dioramas, historic galleries and artwork, including a replica of Teddy Roosevelt’s cabin, and fishing boats once belonging to literary geniuses Ernest Hemingway and Zane Grey. Top of the Rock in Ridgedale is a nature-based heritage preserve and home to Los Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, a self-guided electric cart tour through an Ozarks landscape and cave. Adjacent to it, the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum celebrates the people, wildlife and history of the Ozarks region with one of the country’s largest private collections of Native American artifacts. The experience, developed in partnership with a council of tribal leaders from throughout the United States, is a powerful tribute to America’s first conservationists. Skip the Smithsonian and, instead, cross the threshold of this fascinating museum to view priceless artifacts chronicling American and Native American history, including Sitting Bull’s vest, a lock of George Washington’s hair and an American flag that draped the coffin of President Abraham Lincoln. 

Kissimmee, FL – www.experiencekissimmee.com  

Kissimmee is buzzing with new attractions, events, and experiences this season, making it the perfect time to visit. SeaWorld® Orlando’s Arctic Flying Theater launches this spring, taking guests on an immersive journey over icy landscapes, while SEA LIFE Florida opens at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, introducing kids to marine life through interactive exhibits. The highly anticipated Epic Universe debuts on May 22 at Universal Orlando, featuring five immersive lands, including Super Nintendo World and Isle of Berk from How to Train Your Dragon.   

Exciting events also heat up the season, including Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™ at Osceola Heritage Park on May 3, bringing high-energy stunts and freestyle motocross action. On May 31, the Silver Spurs Rodeo, the largest east of the Mississippi, showcases bull riding, barrel racing, and Florida’s rich ranching heritage. 

For those looking for luxury, The Top Tier at Reunion Resort offers upscale vacation rentals ranging from four-bedroom villas to 15-bedroom estates. Meanwhile, Crush Yard, a new 50,000-square-foot social hub, brings a lively mix of sports, dining, and entertainment with 10 indoor pickleball courts, cornhole, and glow-in-the-dark tournaments. 

With world-class attractions, thrilling events, and exciting new stays, Kissimmee remains the ultimate destination for travelers. As the Vacation Home Capital of the World®, it offers the perfect place to stay, whether you’re looking for a cozy retreat or a sprawling estate for a group getaway. With world-class attractions, thrilling events, and exciting new stays, Kissimmee is the place to be this spring and summer. 

Loudoun County, VA – www.visitloudoun.org  

Loudoun is home to many annual events that attract visitors nationwide. Experience regional culinary offerings, enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains and learn more about Loudoun’s history and culture that are celebrated throughout its towns and villages. 

Gardens in The Gap is an annual springtime celebration of the Hillsboro area’s formal, rustic and historic gardens and The Gap’s 250-year heritage as the center of a robust and bountiful agriculture region. Garden tours, lectures and presentations, high teas, plant and gardening demonstrations and an arts and crafts festival, along with locally sourced foods and beverages, offer visitors and area residents a weekend of activities. Gardens in The Gap takes place April 19–22.  

The 2025 Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival welcomes attendees April 26 and 27 and is open to the public for free. The award-winning festival has become an annual rite of spring for the metropolitan Washington, D.C., area. By transforming the streets of historic Downtown Leesburg, the festival showcases beautiful flowers, plants and landscaping along with the best of gardening and outdoor living products and services. The festival provides fun for everyone, including the rooftop beer and wine garden, a landscape display contest, three stages of entertainment, delicious festival food and the Garden Patch children’s area! 

The Middleburg Spring Races has become the quintessential event to welcome spring to Virginia and is synonymous with the blooming of daffodils and dogwoods. Surrounded by Virginia’s famous hunt country, the tradition continues beginning April 19. Every third Saturday in April, as a much-anticipated rite of spring, thousands of guests and race fans gather at Glenwood Park for Virginia’s oldest steeplechase. Steeped in tradition, its rich history dates to 1911 when Daniel Cox Sands, Middleburg Hunt’s Master of Fox Hounds, organized the first Middleburg Hunt Race Meet. With its origins in point-to-point foxhunting, the Middleburg Spring Races has evolved into a world-class race event that resonates with the locals and elite race aficionados.   

The Purcellville Wine & Food Festival is nestled in the heart of DC’s Wine Country in the charming town of Purcellville, Virginia. Within minutes of Downtown Purcellville are many award-winning wineries, the Catoctin Creek Distilling Company — Loudoun County’s first distillery since Prohibition — several breweries, a great selection of eclectic boutiques, a wide array of restaurants, regular weekend entertainment and annual events.  

The 2025 Loudoun Farm Tour occurs May 17–18. From enjoying charming encounters with llamas, alpacas and donkeys to indulging in delectable homemade ice cream at a dairy farm, the Loudoun Farm Tour offers a cornucopia of experiences for visitors of all ages. Featuring a diverse array of farms showcasing honey, mushrooms, traditional vegetables, garlic, craft beverages and more, attendees can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Loudoun’s agricultural heritage.  

Oklahoma City, OK – www.visitokc.com  

Oklahoma City is set for an exciting 2025 with major openings and events that highlight its growth and culture. OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, recently opened in the Horizons District, bringing a $400 million riverfront escape complete with a luxury hotel, indoor waterpark, spa, outdoor lagoon, amphitheater, and a mix of dining and retail experiences. 

This spring, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games arrives at The Half, offering 96,000 square feet of high-speed karting, zip lining, rock climbing, and a full-service sky bar. Downtown, Boom Town Creamery is set to open by May 1 in the historic Skirvin Hotel, serving up unique ice cream creations. 

Oklahoma City will honor civil rights pioneer Clara Luper in May with the completion of the Clara Luper Sit-In Plaza, a $3.6 million project featuring a life-sized bronze monument. Meanwhile, sports fans can catch the 2025 Women’s College World Series at Devon Park from May 29 to June 6, continuing a beloved tradition. 

This summer, the First Americans Museum debuts the FAMily Discovery Center, an interactive space designed to engage visitors with Native American history through hands-on exploration. 

Pennsylvania – www.visitpa.com  

Pennsylvania is primed for an unforgettable spring and summer, offering a variety of exciting experiences across the state. Outdoor enthusiasts can embrace the season with hikes through the Pocono Mountains or take in breathtaking waterfalls at Ricketts Glen State Park. 

Art lovers can explore the Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show (June 6–8), while the Manayunk Arts Festival (June 21–22) highlights crafts and artwork from across the region. Summer also brings a lineup of must-see festivals, including the Odunde Festival (June 8), the nation’s largest African American street festival, and the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade and Festival (June 22), celebrating Black history and culture. Sports fans won’t want to miss the excitement of the FIFA Club World Cup matches coming to Pennsylvania in June and July.   

For travelers looking to experience Pennsylvania’s historic charm, Gettysburg provides a unique opportunity to explore the Gettysburg National Military Park and its rich history. Families can enjoy a day of thrills and sweet treats at Hersheypark, while adventure seekers can dive into watersports at Lake Wallenpaupack. The Brandywine Valley offers a perfect blend of art, history, and scenic gardens, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing summer getaway. Visitors can also explore the Lehigh Valley, where wineries, summer festivals, and charming small towns provide endless opportunities for discovery. 

From scenic outdoor adventures to world-class arts and culture, Pennsylvania offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seasonal flavors or attending one-of-a-kind festivals, Pennsylvania is ready to deliver an unforgettable spring and summer experience. 

Redding, CA – www.visitredding.com  

United Airlines is launching a new direct flight during May from Denver to Redding, which means it’s never been easier to get from the Mile High City to California’s Sunniest City. The airport is only minutes from the Sundial Bridge, one of the world’s largest working sundials designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, and Turtle Bay Exploration Park. Surrounding Redding are 215 miles of trails leading to gushing waterfalls, hiking opportunities for all skill levels and mountain biking adventures. Anglers can fly-fish for rainbow trout in the Sacramento River, while landlubbers can explore tasting rooms, breweries and shops in historic downtown where a public market, inspired by Napa’s Oxbow Market, will debut this summer. The Shasta Bike Depot features full-service convenience for cyclists. Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, a favorite for sailing and kayaking, and Shasta State Historic Park are less than 15 minutes away. Further north is Shasta Lake and its array of spring activities, including caving. Annual events include Kool April Nights, a 10-day vintage car show featuring more than 2,000 vehicles from 1979 and earlier, Lemurian Classic Mountain Bike Race, Redding Rodeo during May and the return of Redding Regatta during August, a revived tradition that dates back to the 1930s. 

San Antonio, TX – www.visitsanantonio.com  

Fiesta, an annual tradition since 1891, returns April 24–May 4. During the 11-day celebration, San Antonio hosts more than 100 events — such as parades, culinary pop-ups, exhibits and observances — including A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA), Fiesta Oyster Bake and Taste of the Republic. San Antonio is also the Theme Park Capital of Texas, which makes for a thrilling summer getaway. There’s Fiesta Six Flags Texas and its Hurricane Harbor and soon-to-be home to the largest DC Universe. SeaWorld has the world’s steepest flume ride. Morgan’s Wonderland, home to the world’s only ultra-accessible theme park, is designed especially for special-needs guests and their friends and families, including guide and therapy dogs. San Antonio’s theme parks have a combined 163 rides, slides and experiences, with 16 new rides and slides scheduled for 2025. The Alamo Project is underway with the opening of Plaza de Valero. Located near the iconic Menger Hotel, this pedestrian-friendly plaza blends history and community and offers tables, a lush green lawn and a performance pavilion for events and entertainment. Designed for relaxation and gatherings, the plaza is perfect for taking in the rich culture of Downtown San Antonio. Sustainability shines here, too, with a massive underground cistern supporting native plants and trees that provide shade and comfort for visitors year-round. Take your Alamo experience to the next level with interactive portals that bring history to life. Meet engaging characters, watch immersive clips and dive into dynamic animations that transport you back in time. Step into the 18th century to encounter early Native Americans and Spanish friars, prepare for battle on the eve of the historic clash, witness the first confrontation and much more. History has never been this exciting or accessible.  

 St. Louis, MO – www.explorestlouis.com  

St. Louis offers a dynamic slate of events throughout spring and early summer. The season kicks off with the Greater St. Louis Marathon scheduled for April 26, when runners of all levels can participate in races that wind through some of the city’s most-iconic landmarks and scenic parks. On April 26–27, the St. Louis Earth Day Festival takes center stage in Forest Park, offering a two-day celebration of sustainability with eco-friendly vendors, live music, local nonprofits and activities for the whole family. For visitors who want to celebrate diversity and inclusion, the PrideFest takes place June 28–29, with performances, marches and community celebrations throughout the city. 

 May brings more exciting events, including the Juneteenth Festival, which honors African American heritage with cultural displays, performances and community activities. The Festival of Nations, held Aug. 23–25, celebrates the city’s diverse cultures through food, music, art and dance. June marks the return of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s outdoor concerts. From performances to festivals, St. Louis provides a year-round calendar filled with world-class experiences. 

Tulsa, OK – www.visittulsa.com  

Springtime is the perfect time to visit Tulsa. Enjoy annual blooms in our area gardens, such as Philbrook Museum and the Tulsa Botanic Garden, and participate in events from street parties to Tulsa International Mayfest. Plan your spring visit to T-Town for these upcoming fun events.  

T-Town’s International Mayfest is a family-friendly outdoor arts and music festival that takes place annually during early May in the Downtown Tulsa Arts District. The event features hundreds of artists from around the world, including many local vendors.  

Tulsa Pride hosts the state’s largest parade and longest-running gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender pride festival. This year, Tulsa Pride celebrates its 40th anniversary with a weekend of pride — the Tulsa Pride Parade, Tulsa Pride Celebration and Picnic in the Park. 

Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District hosts one of the nation’s largest annual Juneteenth festivals. The several-day festival includes live entertainment, food trucks, and arts and clothing vendors, and celebrates the resiliency of the thriving Greenwood community.  

Jazz on the Green is a summer music festival that has brought a celebrated list of local, regional, national and internationally acclaimed cross-genre jazz musicians to the Tulsa Arts District since 2019. Produced by Tulsa-based international recording artist and bassist Michael Fields Jr., this free family event on the Guthrie Green stage has featured such national artists as flutist Kim Scott (No. 1 Billboard charting 2022 album), keyboardist Ben Tankard (2012 Soul Train Music Awards nominee for best contemporary jazz artist) and guitarist Adam Hawley (16 Billboard No. 1 hits). The festival features plenty of local musicians, food trucks, vendors and family fun.  

A three-day bike festival that energizes the whole city, the Saint Francis Tulsa Tough draws hundreds of bikers from throughout the United States to compete for its amusement show that they’re “Tulsa Tough.” All weekend, friends, family and locals cheer on these incredible athletes as they ride through town. Day 3 of the event includes the infamous Cry Baby Hill, in which the 21-plus crowd engages in a pseudo-Mardi Gras spectacle that’s complete with food trucks, live music and a biergarten.   

U.S. Virgin Islands – www.visitusvi.com  

This spring and summer, let the U.S. Virgin Islands be your passport to paradise. Whether you’re seeking tranquil beaches, thrilling water adventures and outdoor activities, or rich cultural celebrations, the USVI offers something for everyone. With three distinct islands — St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix — this Caribbean destination promises unforgettable experiences. 

St. Thomas Carnival (April 27–May 3): Enjoy the annual celebration featuring a waterfront J’ouvert street dance with bands on trucks, children’s and adult parades with elaborate costumes and a variety of pageants. Don’t miss the food fair and carnival village, where you’ll find local eats along with calypso and reggae nights.  

Virgin Islands Boating Expo (VIBE) (May 15–18): Attend the ultimate luxury yacht showcase, the Virgin Islands Boating Expo, hosted at the award-winning world-class marina Yacht Haven Grande in St. Thomas. 

St. Croix Pride Month (June 1–30): St. Croix Pride Month 2025 events are being scheduled and will occur throughout June. 

Mango Melee (June 6): This popular family-friendly event offers kids’ activities, educational workshops, the Mango Dis, Mango Dat food competition, tropical fruit demonstrations and tastings, and the ever-popular mango-eating contests. Enjoy local food and drinks, arts and craft vendors, cultural dance performances, moko jumbies, music and more. 

King of the Wing (June 14): Magens Bay on St. Thomas hosts this year’s much-anticipated King of the Wing contest. More than 40 teams will compete for the coveted crown and a chance to represent the U.S. Virgin Islands at the National Buffalo Wing Festival in Orchard Park, New York, during Labor Day weekend. 

St. John Celebration (June 28–July 4): Smaller and more intimate than other carnivals, this event marks the end of slavery on the islands on July 3, 1848, as well as the founding of the United States on July 4, 1776. Its parade is just as fun, albeit smaller, than others. The lines for food and drinks are shorter and the Fourth of July fireworks are amazing! 

Western Massachusetts – explorewesternmass.com  

Western Massachusetts is set for an unforgettable spring and summer, by offering a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences and exciting culinary stops. Nature lovers can explore Mount Greylock, the highest peak in Massachusetts, hike scenic trails in the Berkshires or stroll through the stunning gardens at Naumkeag. Thrill-seekers can raft the rapids of the Deerfield River, while history buffs can visit Historic Deerfield or walk the grounds of the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. Foodies can indulge in fresh farm-to-table flavors at The Old Inn on the Green or sip craft beer along the Western Mass Beer Trail. 

Summer brings a lineup of world-class events, including Tanglewood’s outdoor concerts, live performances at Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival and the vibrant Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival. Families can visit the iconic Dr. Seuss Museum, ride thrilling coasters at Six Flags New England or step into the past at Hancock Shaker Village. Western Mass also offers charming stays, from boutique inns to cozy lodges nestled in the hills. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a cultural escape, Western Massachusetts has something for every traveler this spring and summer. 

INTERNATIONAL 

Barbados – www.visitbarbados.org  

Spring is in full swing as the island welcomes Oistins Fish Festival (April 11–20), an Easter weekend tradition celebrating Barbados’ rich fishing heritage with live music, craft markets, and delicious seafood. 

May and June bring high-energy sporting action, including the European Legends Tour Golf (April 25–27), where top golfers and celebrity players compete, and Rally Barbados (May 30–June 2), the island’s premier motorsport event drawing international rally drivers. Meanwhile, music and culture shine during Barbados Gospelfest (May 25–June 1), featuring world-renowned gospel artists, and the beloved Crop Over Festival (July 5–August 4), a celebration of Bajan culture filled with parties, street fairs, and the spectacular Grand Kadooment Day (August 4) parade. 

For adventure seekers, the Barbados Dive Festivalv (August 15–20) highlights the island’s breathtaking marine life with guided dives, beach clean-ups, and conservation initiatives. 

Cricket lovers can catch world-class action at West Indies Men’s Home Series (June 25–29) at Kensington Oval. Other major summer competitions include the high-stakes Caribbean Premier League (August–September), bringing top T20 cricket talent to the island. 

Chile – www.chile.travel  

Chile’s cultural calendar from April through July is filled with exciting events that celebrate the country’s rich traditions and dynamic arts scene. During spring, from April 25–27, is the Festival Internacional de Jazz de Providencia in Santiago, which brings together world-renowned jazz artists for a weekend of performances in the heart of the city. 

During May, as summer transitions into early winter, Chile maintains the cultural spirit by hosting art and music events. The winter months of June and July bring a variety of cultural and music festivals to the forefront and showcase the country’s diverse cultural landscape. The Festival Internacional de Cine de Valdivia and the many art and jazz celebrations throughout Chile create unique experiences for locals and tourists. 

Monaco – www.visitmonaco.com/en  

From the glitz of its world-famous Grand Prix to the serene beauty of its Mediterranean gardens, Monaco comes alive in the spring and summer with vibrant events, cultural experiences, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the lush Japanese Garden, lounging on the sun-kissed shores of Larvotto Beach, or indulging in world-class performances at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, Monaco offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. 

Monaco E-Prix (May 11): Before the legendary Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Monaco E-Prix showcases cutting-edge electric racing cars as they zoom through the iconic streets of Monte Carlo. This eco-friendly race highlights Monaco’s commitment to sustainability. 

Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix (May 22–25): Arguably the most-glamorous event in the world of motorsport, the Monaco Grand Prix draws international celebrities, sports fans and royalty to watch high-speed action on the legendary circuit. Book a terrace spot for unparalleled views of the race. 

Toronto (BUSINESS EVENTS PR) – www.destinationtoronto.com  

Toronto’s spring and summer seasons offer a dynamic mix of business events and cultural experiences that make the city a top destination for executives and professionals. From global forums to world-class entertainment, Toronto provides the perfect setting for work and networking, with plenty of opportunities to unwind. 

The Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival, running from late April into May, attracts filmmakers, executives, and industry leaders for networking and thought-provoking storytelling. May also offers the Toronto Comic Arts Festival, a hub for creatives and publishers, and Doors Open Toronto, where visitors can explore the city’s most significant architectural and historical landmarks. 

Beyond the boardroom, Toronto’s culture and entertainment scene enhance any business trip. The city’s vibrant food culture is in the spotlight as Top Chef Season 22 highlights Toronto’s culinary landscape, making it an exciting time for corporate dining. Summer kicks off with Pride Toronto in June, offering a lively backdrop for networking and corporate celebrations. Music and nightlife come alive with the Toronto Jazz Festival and Salsa in Toronto in July, while the Toronto Caribbean Carnival in August brings an unmatched energy to the city. The season wraps up with the Canadian National Exhibition, a must-visit summer tradition. 

Vienna – www.wien.info/en  

Vienna’s spring calendar brims with cultural events that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage. During April, the Mozart Ensemble concert series offers performances of divertimenti, serenades and string quartets from the Viennese Classical period. These concerts, held in the historic Sala Terrena, the oldest concert hall in Vienna, provide an authentic setting for chamber music enthusiasts. As the season progresses, Vienna’s ball season offers more than 2,000 hours of dance events, with numerous balls dedicated to Johann Strauss to mark the 200th anniversary of his birth. These events feature waltzes and other dance styles, reflecting the city’s rich musical heritage. During May, the Vienna Pride and Rainbow Parade take place May 31–June 15, culminating in the Rainbow Parade on June 14. This vibrant event, which celebrates LGBTQ+ rights and culture, features a parade along Vienna’s Ringstrasse and numerous parties and cultural events throughout the city. 

 During the summer, the Vienna Jazz Festival (Jazz Fest Wien) occurs June 30–July 13. This renowned festival brings together international jazz artists for performances at various venues throughout the city, including the Museumsquartier, Stadthalle Wien and the Vienna State Opera. Celebrated for its diverse lineup, the festival attracts enthusiasts of jazz, soul, blues, rock, pop and world music from around the globe. During July, the dotdotdot short film festival runs from July 27–Aug. 26. Held in the 8th district, this festival showcases approximately 100 international short films for 15 evenings, with screenings every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. A discussion with filmmakers accompanies each screening, which provides a platform for emerging and established talents in the short-film industry. Admission is accessible, operating on a “pay as you can” basis, which makes it an inclusive cultural experience. 

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