Spring/Summer Story Starters — Canada

NORTH AMERICA 

 

Cincinnati, OH and Northern KY – www.visitcincy.com 

Milestone Celebrations — Cincinnati is marking major anniversaries during 2025. The Cincinnati Zoo celebrates its 150th year with the addition of a new North America Habitat featuring Bear Ridge and Sea Otter Coasts. Literature and history fans can honor the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby” by exploring the Newport Gangster Tour, which delves into the life of infamous bootlegger George Remus, said to have inspired Jay Gatsby. The recently expanded American Sign Museum turns 20 this year and features new neon demonstrations. Also celebrating 20 years is the Rosemary Clooney House in Augusta, Kentucky, where visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to the beloved singer’s career. 

Sipping Through Cincy — Cincinnati’s beer industry thrives during the spring and summer, drawing visitors who are eager to explore its rich 200-year-old brewing heritage and vibrant craft beer scene. When the weather warms, beer enthusiasts flock to the city’s many breweries, beer gardens and outdoor festivals, such as Bockfest during early spring and the TQL Beer Series during summer. The city’s Brewery District, home to historic breweries and modern taprooms, offers guided tours and tastings. Reds games at Great American Ball Park provide the perfect pairing of craft brews and local culture. With seasonal releases, patio dining and brewery hopping along the Cincy Region Ale Trail, the city offers an ideal destination for beer lovers. 

Game On — Cincinnati is a hot spot for major sports events. TQL Stadium brings world-class soccer to the city during June when it hosts four group stage matches for the FIFA Club World Cup. The Cincinnati Open, one of the longest-running tennis tournaments in the country, expands to two weeks this August, when it introduces new courts and enhanced fan experiences. Baseball fans can catch the Florence Y’alls facing off against the social media-famous Savannah Bananas at Great American Ball Park on June 13 and 14. 

Live Music and Festival Vibes — Music lovers have plenty to look forward to this year. The Cincinnati Music Festival returns July 24–26, headlined by Janet Jackson, Earth, Wind & Fire and a tribute to Frankie Beverly featuring Ronald Isley, Joe and more. Voices of America Country Music Fest, running Aug. 7–10, brings top country acts, such as Hardy and Darius Rucker, to West Chester. Big-name concerts are also hitting Cincinnati, including Avril Lavigne (June 8), Keith Urban (June 26) and Thomas Rhett (Aug. 15) at Riverbend Music Center. 

Getting to Cincy Just Got Easier — Getting to Cincinnati will be easier than ever, with new direct flights by Air Canada at CVG Airport. Travelers can now enjoy nonstop service to and from Toronto, and beginning May 22, nonstop flights between Montreal and Cincinnati will be available. 

Expedia Group — www.expedia.ca 

Expedia Group’s latest report, “Unpack ‘25 – The Trends in Travel,” provides an in-depth look at emerging travel behaviors and offers actionable insights for travel professionals. From the rise of solo and couple travel to the increasing demand for off-the-beaten-path destinations, the data highlight key opportunities for agents to refine their strategies and enhance clients’ experiences. Notably, solo travelers now account for 30 percent of Expedia TAAP bookings; couples dominate with 53 percent. Top destinations continue to be such U.S. cities as New York and Miami, but international travel is booming, particularly in Asia, where Tokyo, Singapore and Bangkok are surging in popularity. 

The report also unpacks shifting travelers’ preferences, such as the growing appeal of all-inclusive resorts among Gen Z, the rise of Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) travel and the increasing demand for Detour Destinations — hidden gems that offer unique, less-crowded experiences. As travelers seek more-immersive experiences, agents have a prime opportunity to curate personalized itineraries featuring local cultural and adventure-based activities. Coupled with the latest advancements in travel tech — such as Expedia TAAP’s AI-powered Virtual Agent, which resolved more than 75,000 queries last year — agents can maximize efficiency and deliver exceptional service. With demand for travel agents stronger than ever, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of growth, innovation and opportunity.  

Expedia Group, in partnership with Wakefield Research, conducted a study titled “Decoding the Travel Advisor Client,” which is a deep dive into travellers’ preferences, values and planning habits. This report offers travel advisors actionable insights to strengthen client relationships and maximize business opportunities. The report is also accessible here. 

Greater Miami and Miami Beach, FL – www.miamiandbeaches.com  

Miami’s late spring 2025 calendar brims with vibrant and diverse events. during In May, Miami delivers high-energy entertainment starting with the Hyundai Air & Sea Show on May 24 and 25. This event 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. 

Miami doesn’t slow down during the summer. During 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. 

Montreal, Canada – www.mtl.org/en

Montreal comes alive in spring and summer, offering the perfect blend of warm weather, vibrant festivals, and outdoor adventures. From the world-famous Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Montreal International Jazz Festival to Osheaga and Just for Laughs, the city is packed with exciting events that showcase its rich culture.  

Spring kicks off with cultural highlights like the Blue Metropolis Literary festival and the Plural contemporary art fair, followed by music and arts festivals such as Francos, Piknic Électronik, MURAL Fest, and the Montréal St-Ambroise Fringe Festival in early June.  Whether you’re exploring Old Montreal’s historic charm, enjoying patios and rooftop terraces, or taking in fireworks at L’International des Feux Loto-Québec, Montreal is as dreamy under the sun as it is in the wintertime.  

Some big events include: 

• Montreal International Jazz Festival (June 26 – July 5) The world’s largest jazz festival hosts performances from renowned musicians across multiple venues, from grand concert halls to intimate outdoor stages. Music lovers can experience a mix of jazz, blues, soul, and experimental sounds in a vibrant city setting. 

• Just for Laughs Comedy Festival (July 15-27) This world-famous comedy festival brings together top comedians and rising stars for stand-up shows, galas, and street performances. From improv to star-studded specials, it’s the perfect event for those looking to enjoy a good laugh. 

• Osheaga Music and Arts Festival (August 1-3 This massive three-day music festival at Parc Jean-Drapeau features a mix of indie, rock, hip-hop, and electronic artists, as well as art installations and gourmet food vendors. 

• Montreal Pride Festival (August 7-17) One of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in Canada, Montreal Pride features a vibrant parade, concerts, and cultural events.  

• Go Bike Montréal Festival (May 25 –June 1) A week-long lineup of cycling and urban activities for everyone to enjoy. Bicycle fever takes over the city for a few days, with an exciting series of much-anticipated events, including the Tour la Nuit and the Tour de l’Île de Montréal.  

Orlando, FL – www.visitorlando.com 

Art and Culture Celebrations — Orlando’s vibrant arts scene shines during spring, with multiple outdoor art festivals. Theater enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival (May 13–26), a two-week cultural experience featuring performances from global artists. 

Sports Action — Soccer fans can cheer on Orlando City SC and the Orlando Pride at Inter&Co Stadium, with spring home games running from Feb. 22–May 16. The Pride, led by superstar Marta, will defend its 2024 championship title. 

Garden Delights — Disney’s EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival (March 5–June 2) transforms the park into a floral wonderland with stunning topiaries, gardens, fresh cuisine and the Garden Rocks Concert Series. 

New Themes, Same Parks! — This summer, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away brings a magical new nighttime spectacular to Walt Disney World by featuring stunning light displays, immersive storytelling and beloved Disney characters. Opening this spring, Orlando’s EPIC Universe theme park promises groundbreaking attractions, immersive lands and interactive experiences, making Orlando even more of a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and for families.  

San Francisco, CA – www.sftravel.com 

The Counterculture Museum, located at the intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets, is slated to open this spring. It will explore San Francisco’s place at the center of cultural movements that have shaped society, from the Beat Generation and Summer of Love to LGBTQ+ rights. 

‘Smurfs: The Adventure’ will open in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf during spring 

San Francisco will be painted immersive shades of blue this spring as a new, all-ages interactive adventure transports delighted fans into the forested world of The Smurfs. Through exciting challenges, games and interactive experiences in a state-of-the-art installation, participants can help Papa, Smurfette and the rest of the gang defend the village from Gargamel and Azrael. “Smurfs: The Adventure” will have its grand premiere in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf in the former Wax Museum space. The launch is planned to coincide with the release of the new Smurfs film starring Rihanna as the voice of Smurfette. 

The Golden State Valkyries, the new WNBA expansion team, kicks off its inaugural season at Chase Center on May 16. 

The T100 Triathlon World Tour San Francisco on May 31 coincides with the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. 

This spring, a two-mile stretch of the four-lane Great Highway along the city’s western oceanfront will become a full-time 17-acre park. The southern section of the Great Highway, which runs parallel to Ocean Beach in the city’s Sunset neighborhood, became car-free during weekends in 2022 under a pilot program. That year, the New York Times named the recreational promenade a “must-go destination, pointing the way for post-pandemic urbanism.” Following voter approval last November, the stretch will transform into a dedicated recreational area early this year. The first phase of the Great Highway’s transformation includes the installation of more than 12 sculptures and street murals. Dune restoration work is also underway, led by San Francisco’s Recreation and Parks in conjunction with the National Park Service and the Surfrider Foundation.    

Spring is an ideal time to visit the park’s Japanese Tea Garden. Golden Gate Park’s Japanese Tea Garden unveiled a redesigned plaza surrounding the garden’s historical pagoda. Award-winning Japanese Garden designer Hoichi Kurisu redesigned the plaza by adding new paths, a small, serene space behind the pagoda for contemplation and seven Japanese black pines cultivated by Kurisu and his family. The more-open Pagoda Plaza, now a gathering space for taiko performances, bonsai demonstrations and other cultural events, builds on the restoration of the 109-year-old pagoda during 2022. The Japanese Tea Garden is the oldest public Japanese Garden in the nation. Its pagoda was built as a temporary indoor display during the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition’s Palace of Food Products and relocated to the Japanese Tea Garden during 1916.  

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! 

Washington, D.C. – www.washington.org  

Spotlight on Stage: Must-See Theatre — DC’s theatre scene is packed with can’t-miss performances. “Sister Act” (March 14–May 17) brings feel-good music and comedy to Ford’s Theatre. “In the Heights” (through May 4) at Signature Theatre pulses with Lin-Manuel Miranda’s dynamic beats. Shakespeare Theatre Company presents “Frankenstein” (May 27–June 22), reimagining Mary Shelley’s gothic classic. “A Wrinkle in Time” (June 12–July 20) debuts at Arena Stage as a thrilling new musical.  

Festivals in Full Bloom — Spring and summer in DC bring vibrant festivals. The National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20–April 13) fills the city with pink blooms, while Awesome Con (April 4–6) draws pop culture fans. Filmfest DC (April 24–May 5) showcases global cinema, and WorldPride 2025 (May 17–June 8) celebrates 50 years of Pride in DC with parades, concerts and cultural events. 

Music lovers can catch Project GLOW (May 31–June 1) at RFK Festival Grounds. Foodies will love the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle (June 21–22). The Smithsonian Folklife Festival (July 2–7) brings immersive cultural experiences to the National Mall, Otakon (Aug. 8–10) celebrates Asian pop culture and DC JazzFest (Aug. 27–Sept. 1) fills the city with world-class jazz performances. 

Masterpieces and Marvels: Art and Exhibits — The National Portrait Gallery’s James Baldwin and the Voices of Queer Resistance (through April 20) honors the civil rights icon, while The Phillips Collection presents Essex Hemphill: Take Care of Your Blessings (May 17–Aug. 31), which explores the late poet’s powerful activism. Also at The Phillips Collection, Timeless Mucha (Feb. 22–May 18) highlights the influence of art nouveau legend Alphonse Mucha. Film and espionage fans will love Bond in Motion at the International Spy Museum (through April 25), featuring iconic 007 vehicles. 

Game On: DC’s Biggest Sports Events — DC’s sports calendar is stacked with action. FIFA Club World Cup (June 18, 22 and 26) brings elite soccer to Audi Field, featuring such powerhouse clubs as Juventus FC and Al Hilal. Tennis fans can catch the Mubadala Citi DC Open (July 21–27), which features world-class talent, at Rock Creek Park Tennis Center.  

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. 

Belize – www.travelbelize.org 

The Chocolate Festival of Belize (May 16–18) in Toledo District celebrates Belize’s rich cacao heritage with an indulgent mix of handcrafted chocolates, cacao drinks and chocolate-infused dishes from local and international artisans. Visitors can experience the bean-to-bar process, enjoy Maya and Garifuna cultural performances and sample wine, rum and cacao-infused beer pairings. The festival also features cooking demonstrations, an arts and crafts market, and a deep dive into sustainable cacao farming. Beyond chocolate, guests can explore Maya ruins, waterfalls and caves, making this a must-visit for food lovers and cultural explorers. 

Spring in Belize marks the arrival of Whale Shark season, a breathtaking experience for divers and snorkelers. From April to June, these gentle giants migrate to the waters around Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, drawn by the spawning of snapper, and create an unparalleled opportunity to swim alongside them. Placencia serves as the gateway for this adventure, with expert guides leading responsible, eco-friendly tours. The best chances to encounter whale sharks align with the full-moon phases, making it a bucket-list experience for marine life enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime dive in Belize’s pristine Caribbean waters. 

Chile – www.chile.travel/en   

Chile’s cultural calendar from April to 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. 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. 

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. 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 from 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 during 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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