Unmissable Events to Travel for in 2026

Emily Draper
December 15, 2025
10 mins

2026 is set to be a particularly exciting year of once-in-a-lifetime events where the greatest moments in sport, music, and culture will be captured. The kind of moments that will leave you saying “I wish I was there” as they are talked about for years to come. While soccer fans will be flocking to North America for the FIFA World Cup in June, nature enthusiasts will be basking under the Aurora Borealis as it reaches its solar peak in February, and music lovers will be following their favorite artists on tours and festivals around the world. Now more than ever, people are following their passions around the world and traveling with purpose. Find the events that excite you in this list of ‘Unmissable Events to Travel for in 2026’ and see where your passions will take you this year.

January: Spend Winter in the Sun

Melbourne for the Australian Open | 12 January – 1 February

This year’s Australian Open, hosted in the newly upgraded Melbourne Park, is kicking off another exciting year of sport. The most talked-about talent in tennis is set to compete in the 2026 tournament, including Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka. If you’ve dreamed about playing alongside the pros, it’s your lucky year: the 2026 Australian Open introduces the ‘$1 Million 1 Point Slam’ where amateurs will compete alongside pros for the chance to win US$1 million in a one-point-wins match format. 

Why go:

Held over 21 days, the 2026 Australian Open will double as a summer festival with live music every night during Opening Week, plus food and entertainment beyond the court until the closing ceremony. Set to take place in the height of Melbourne’s summer, where average daily temperatures sit snuggly in the high 70s, it’s the perfect excuse for some winter sun. When you’re not on the edge of your seat at a tennis match, you could be sunbathing on Melbourne’s rugged beaches, taking shade in the country’s top art galleries, or immersing in the event’s festivities. 

More events in January

  • – X Games at Buttermilk Mountain | Aspen, Colorado | January 23-25
  • – Napa Truffle Festival | Napa Valley, California | January 16-19
  • – Tucson Jazz Festival | Tucson, Arizona | January 16-24

February: The Mountains are Calling

Norway for the Northern Lights

Northern Lights in Norway

In February 2026, the mystifying Aurora Borealis reaches the solar maximum peak of its 11-year cycle, so if you’ve been dreaming of seeing this natural phenomenon, now is the time. The visibility hasn’t been as clear since 2015 and won’t be again until 2037. Talk about seizing the moment! The Northern Lights are best seen from northern countries such as Iceland, Finland, and even Scotland, but there’s nowhere better than Norway in 2026.

Why Go:

Come summer or winter, Norway is where you’ll find the grandest, wildest adventures in the Arctic. When you’re not chasing the Aurora, you’ll be chasing frozen waterfalls, the best powder at the ski slopes, the coolest whale sightings, and the most extraordinary fjord landscapes. In quieter moments, capture the luxuriously cozy vibes of Tromso’s cafes and boutiques, and northern Norway’s Scandi-style retreats, which immerse you in the beautiful landscapes without having to leave the sauna. 

Milan, Italy for the Winter Olympics 2026 | February 6-22

The Winter Olympics return in 2026 to Milan and the Italian Alps for another competitive year of skiing, figure skating, ski jumping, and more. The prestigious sporting event begins with an opening ceremony at Milan’s San Siro Stadium, where events like speed skating and ice hockey will be held. Meanwhile, women's Alpine skiing will take place at Cortina's legendary Olympia delle Tofane, and the men's downhill on Bormio's fearsome Stelvio run. This year, spectators will also have the opportunity to witness ski mountaineering for the first time as the sport makes its Olympic debut. In true Italian fashion, the closing ceremony is going back to its roots at Verona’s ancient Roman Arena.

Why Go:

Combining the heart of Italian design (Milan) with the heart of Italian adventure (the Alps), the Winter Olympics 2026 has provided the perfect winter itinerary for the luxury traveler. Kick off your trip by shopping at Italy’s famous fashion houses and filling up on risotto alla Milanese before the opening ceremony. Then, head to your private chalet in Cortina to catch up with Olympic legends in the making. From Cortina d'Ampezzo to Bormio, Valtellina, Val di Fiemme, the atmosphere will be electric. When you’re not cheering for your country at the ski jump, cheer for yourself as you slice through the slopes. 

More events in February

  • – The annual Rio Carnival | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | February 13-21
  • – Super Bowl LX, the NFL’s 60th championship | Santa Clara, California | February 8
  • – Nice Carnival | Nice, France | February 11-March 1

March: A Full Moon to Remember

Palawan, Philippines for the Total Lunar Eclipse | March 3, 2026

Palawan, Philippines

On the night of March 3rd, the world will be treated to a rare total lunar eclipse where the moon moves into the Earth’s shadow, causing it to appear blood-red. While Europe, Africa, and the Eastern US won’t be in sight of the moon during the eclipse, Asia and Australasia will have excellent visibility, especially in the Philippines. 

Why Go:

Although there are several dreamy destinations to watch the lunar eclipse in Asia, most of them will be chilly in March, but it’s peak beach season in the Philippines. Imagine relaxing with loved ones at a private beach villa in Palawan, its iconic sugarloaf mountains behind you, along with a playful day of snorkeling in the gin-clear tropical waters. As the sun sets, the ballooning moon rises behind the Earth’s shadow, turning a deeper orange every second until finally, it fills the sky with its blood-red hue and the lunar eclipse reaches its full potential. The setting doesn’t get better than that. Although the eclipse will naturally be a trip highlight, snorkeling in waters rich with marine life, paddle boarding around coastal caves, island hopping, and wellness retreats will make it that bit more special.

India for Holi (Festival of Colors) | March 4, 2026

There are dozens of cultural festivals taking place around the world this year, but none compare to India’s joyful Holi festival, which fills the streets of India with color on the March full moon each year. Celebrating the arrival of Spring and the triumph of good over evil, Hindus gather in the masses across India to throw colored powder and water over each other. It’s like a rainbow explodes over towns and cities, causing an infectious sense of joy and freedom. Even if you don’t practice Hinduism, or any religion for that matter, immersing in the colorful crowds of Holi festival will be deeply moving.

Why Go: 

Between its immense beauty, rich and diverse culture, and incredible people, India is a bucket-list country for intrepid travelers, and those who like to immerse themselves in other worlds. For India is, indeed, like a world of its own. Whether you’re looking for wild adventures through jungles and deserts, or quiet retreats in the mountains and on beaches, you’ll be blown away by what the country has to offer. While Holi is celebrated all over India, those looking for a deeply cultural experience will prefer Mathura; those looking for organized fun will prefer the Pink City of Jaipur, and those looking for something small-scale but spiritual will prefer the holy Lake Pushkar.

More events in March

  • – Lollapalooza South America | Chile & Argentina: March 13-15| Brazil: March 20-22
  • – Art Basel Hong Kong | March 27-29
  • – National Grape Harvest Festival | Mendoza, Argentina | February 26 - March 9
  • – SXSW (40th Anniversary), Austin, Texas | March 12-18

April: Spring Healing

Kyoto, Japan for the Cherry Blossom/Sakura Season | April 1-9

Cherry Blossom Season in Kyoto, Japan

If you’re planning to visit Japan, there’s no better time than the Sakura season, when the pink cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, turning the country into a cotton candy wonderland. Find them framing lakes, walking routes, roads, and temples everywhere from Tokyo to Hokkaido, making every scene that bit more photo-worthy. Sakura season happens at slightly different times in each part of Japan, starting in Tokyo in late March before blooming in Kyoto at the start of April. The cherry blossom trees don’t bloom for much more than two weeks, so blink and you miss it!

Why go:

The blooming cherry blossom trees bring a joyful energy to Kyoto as locals and visitors celebrate the end of winter and the renewal of life. While Tokyo’s gardens are certainly a thing to be marvelled at this time of year, there’s something special about seeing the cherry blossom trees amongst the ornate castles, temples, and Shinto shrines of Kyoto. Whilst wandering around them, you’ll learn how the cherry blossoms symbolize the ancient Shinto beliefs about nature’s divine energy. Something to ponder afterward with a picnic under the shade of the pink branches.

Ubud for the Bali Spirit Festival | April 15-19

Between its deep sense of spirituality and mind-muting tropical landscapes, Bali has long been a destination for those seeking healing and connection. The Bali Spirit Festival fully embraces and embodies this identity for five days of yoga, healing workshops, music, and meditation for solo travelers and families alike. Start each day with some ashtanga, followed by breathwork, reiki, or a nutritional workshop at the Healing Hut, and finish it dancing with your newfound community at the World Music Stage. The festival closes with a collective ecstatic dance gathering, fire performances, and a ceremonial blessing led by Balinese priests — a moving and beautiful finale.

Why Go:

Out of all the spiritual and wellness festivals in 2026, Bali’s Spirit Festival is the epitome. World-leading teachers, healers, and practitioners come together at this festival to offer the very best program of classes, workshops, and events, opening a magical healing portal for all. And from music, dance, and costumes to daily offerings and teachings, you get to immerse yourself in the colorful and wisdomous Balinese culture, too. Best of all, it’s all set within the lush, fruitful forests and undulating rice fields of Ubud, the scenes of which will hold a special place in your heart forever.  

More events in April

  • New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival | April 23-26 + April 30-May 3
  • The Masters (90th Edition) | Augusta, Georgia | April 9-12
  • Coachella (25th Anniversary) | Indio, California | April 10-12 + April 17-19
  • Route 66 Centennial ‘Dust to Dreams’ drive | Chicago to LA, USA | April 13-29
  • Design Doha Biennale (2nd Edition) | Doha, Qatar | April 16-June 30
  • Monaco Historic Grand Prix | Monte Carlo, Monaco | April 24-26

May: From East to West

London, England for the Chelsea Flower Show | May 19-23

Chelsea Flower Show, London, England

If the idea of floristry or landscape design sounds dull to you, you clearly haven’t been to the Chelsea Flower Show. The show-stopping event is held annually by the Royal Horticultural Society (the most British thing you’ve ever heard, right?) in the Royal Hospital Chelsea, giving the world’s best garden designers, florists, and landscape artists a chance to compete and showcase their extraordinary capabilities. Of course, the public is welcome to revel in the sights, sounds, and smells of the floral dreamscapes where nature collides with art. 

Why Go:

London is commonly thought of as a gritty, grey city, but every Spring, the Chelsea Flower Show transforms it into a colorful urban Eden. Each year, the blooming florals and vivid foliage breathe a sense of joy and excitement into the city, making it the ideal occasion to have a “lovely” time in London. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or not, the gardens displayed at the show will offer a whole new appreciation for our natural world and its capabilities, with themes of sustainability, mental health, innovation, and more. As a highlight on the Royal Family’s calendar, it’s easy to imagine just how quintessentially British the event is, so get ready for lots of tea, picnics, and jolly good times. 

Seoul, South Korea for the Lotus Lantern Festival | 26-27 May 

Witness the sensational spectacle of the Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival, which celebrates the Buddha’s birthday with a month-long list of festivities highlighted by a magical lantern parade through the streets of Seoul. Throughout the month, the city hosts lantern-making workshops, temple ceremonies, and lantern exhibitions in the streets. Each night, iconic landmarks are transformed by their beautiful glow. On parade day, excitement runs high as the city witnesses an impressive singing, dancing procession of awe-inspiring lanterns, which take on many cultural forms, from the Buddha, elephants, lotus flowers, to fire-breathing dragons spanning more than five meters. 

Why Go:

Having earned its way onto the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, the Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival is a non-negotiable bucket-list item for the world’s most curious, intrepid travelers. While rooted in Buddhist teachings, it’s about so much more. Every part of it, from watching the hanboks (traditional paper lanterns) being created into meaningful shapes, to immersing in traditional South Korean song, dance, and costume, brings a sense of joy and wonder that’s only found in such culturally rich places. Between the festivities, discover the modern side of Korea, a futuristic city whose fashion, beauty, and food have become influential around the world.

More events in May

  • French Open | Paris, France | May 18-June 7
  • PGA Championship | Aronimink Golf Club, Pennsylvania | May 14-17
  • Cannes Film Festival (79th Edition) | Cannes, France | May 13-24
  • Venice Biennale | Venice, Italy | May 9 - November 22


June: Soccer Season

USA, Canada, and Mexico for the FIFA World Cup 2026 | June 11 - July 19

Fifa World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup is back in 2026 for another nail-biting championship, but this time it will be held in not one, not two, but three host countries: the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The kick-off match will take place at the Aztec Stadium in Mexico City on June 11 with an epic opening ceremony before expanding across 16 cities, including Toronto, Texas, LA, and Monterrey, as the best footballers from around the world play for the ultimate title. The tantalizing 28-day event will culminate at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where the two finalists will compete for the cup. 

Why Go:

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is about more than world-class football; hosted across three countries for the first time in FIFA history, this year’s championship represents global connection through sport. From Vancouver to Atlanta and Guadalajara, the atmosphere will be electric as thousands of people travel from around the world to cheer their country on. If you’ve ever wanted to dance in the Deep South, drive down the West Coast, or experience the vibrancy of Mexican food and culture, there’s never been a better time. Align your match schedule with your dream North American destinations for a FIFA World Cup you’ll never want to forget — even if your country doesn’t win.

Around the world for festivals in June

Celebrate the start of summer at iconic festivals around the world in 2026, from the Rock in Rio, Lisbon, to Summerfest, Milwaukee, and Roskilde, Denmark. Each of them is set to be packed with the best in this year’s music, with exciting events and good vibes to boot. This year, festivals aren’t only a way to feel the electric energy of live music, they’re a way to see the world and experience new cultures. Where will June’s festival line-up take you? Let’s find out:

  • Rock am Ring (Nürburgring) & Rock im Park (Nuremberg)| Germany| June 5-7, 2026
  • Governors Ball | NYC, USA | June 5-7
  • Download Festival | Donington Park, UK | June 10-14, 2026
  • Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival | Manchester, Tennessee | June 11-14
  • Electric Forest | Rothbury, Michigan | June 18-21
  • Isle of Wight Festival | Isle of Wight, UK| June 18-21
  • Roskilde Festival | Roskilde, Denmark | June 27-July 4
  • Rock in Rio Lisboa | Lisbon, Portugal | June 20-21, 27-28
  • Summerfest | Milwaukee, Wisconsin | June 18-20, June 25-27, and July 2-4

July: Summer in the British Isles

South of England for Wimbledon Tennis Championships | June 29-July 12 

Wimbledon, London, England

Get the strawberries and cream ready for tennis’s most prestigious Grand Slam at Wimbledon this summer. Held at the traditional All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, expect a nail-biting two-week tournament between the world’s best men’s, women’s, and doubles players for the ultimate championship title. Gather among royals, politicians, and celebrities to watch matches courtside, or opt to watch in a more relaxed setting on the Wimbledon lawns from the big screens with a glass of Pimms. 

Why Go:

Wimbledon is about much more than tennis; it’s an event that draws prestigious guests from around the world with its sense of tradition and elegance. If you like an excuse to dress up and drink champagne in the daytime, you’ll be in the right place. Wimbledon also marks the beginning of the British summertime, making it the perfect occasion to soak up the beauty of the South of England’s with a road trip around its cities, seaside towns, and national parks. Start with a visit to the ancient megaliths of Stone Henge, before heading down to Bournemouth and along the Dorset Coast.

Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games 2026 | July 23-August 2

Around 3,000 world-class athletes from 74 nations will gather in Glasgow this July for the 23rd Commonwealth Games. This year’s event will host all the classic competitions like athletics, swimming, cycling, boxing, and gymnastics, and introduce new sports and playing formats with a strong commitment to para sports. The 2026 games will also reintroduce the Commonwealth Mile for the first time since 1966. With greater consideration for sustainability and inclusivity than ever before, this event will be a shining example for the future of sporting events. 

Why Go:

Glasgow is in the spotlight in 2026, with its reputation as a beautiful, friendly city preceding it ahead of the Commonwealth Games. The famously down-to-earth Glaswegians will welcome you with open arms and give you a taste of the north through its belly-shaking stand-up scene, love for live music, and exceptionally good Scottish whiskey.  Set to take place at the end of July, the Commonwealth Games is timed perfectly with the short but sweet Scottish summer; the perfect opportunity to experience Scotland. Located in southwestern Scotland, use Glasgow as your base for exploring Scotland's highlights, including Edinburgh, the Scottish Isles, Hadrian’s Wall, Stirling, and Loch Lomond.

More Events in July

  • Aix-en-Provence Festival | Aix-en-Provence, France | July 2–21 
  • Calgary Stampede | Canada | July 3–12 
  • America's 250th Birthday | Philadelphia & across USA | July 4
  • NOS Alive | Lisbon, Portugal | July 9-11
  • The Open Championship | Royal Birkdale Golf Club, England | July 16–19 
  • Beach Sport Festival | Côte d’Azur, France | Throughout July
  • Tomorrowland | Boom, Belgium | July 17-19 + 24-26 
  • Fuji Rock Festival | Naeba Ski Resort, Japan | July23-26
  • Lollapalooza Chicago |  Chicago, Illinois | July 30-August 2

August: Chasing the Summer Sun

Spain for the Total Solar Eclipse | August 12, 2026

Valencia, Spain

Get ready for the rare opportunity to watch the whole world go dark in the blink of an eye as the solar eclipse kills the daylight on August 12, 2026. Although the eclipse will be at least partially visible across North America, Europe, and Africa, the narrow path of totality (where the sun is 100% obscured by the moon) will be best seen in Spain, and the whole world is invited to come and watch. Locations across Spain are getting ready to host viewing parties, workshops, and other events, bringing communities together to celebrate this rare natural phenomenon festively.

Why Go:

The opportunity to see a solar eclipse presents itself only a few times in one’s life, so why not make a trip out of it in one of Europe’s top summer destinations? With events happening around the country from Madrid to Palma de Mallorca, it’s a great excuse to discover new or revisit old favorite parts of Spain. In Madrid’s Retiro Park, the vibes will be high with live music, food trucks, educational booths, and telescope viewings. Alternatively, take the opportunity to get a deeper understanding of the phenomenon in Valencia with science demos, planetarium shows, telescope workshops, and guided viewing, or with a relaxed approach at the beach in Palma de Mallorca. 

More events in August

  • Edinburgh Festival Fringe | Edinburgh, Scotland | August 1–25
  • European Athletics Championships | birmingham, England | August 10-16 
  • Summer Sonic | Tokyo & Osaka, Japan | August 16-17
  • La Tomatina | Buñol, Spain | August 26
  • Creamfields Festival | Cheshire, England | August 27-30
  • Reading & Leeds Festival | England | August 27-30
  • US Open Tennis | Flushing Meadows, Queens, New York | August 30-September 13

September: Luxury adventure and relaxation

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya for the Wildebeest Great Migration | Throughout September

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

This September, witness one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth at the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, as the wildebeest, one of Africa’s ‘Big Five’, migrate in their millions through the savannah. The event happens only once a year as wildebeests head north in search of fresh grass, water, and a safe place to calve, along with other iconic African mammals like zebras and antelope. The event is not only impressive for its sheer scale of migration, but also for its insight into animal instinct as the wildebeest swim across wide rivers and run from predators.

Why Go:

Visiting the Masai Mara National Reserve in September provides a rare and deeply moving opportunity to watch nature at its most raw. Imagine thousands of wildebeest thundering across the plains at once, zebras barking, dust rising under the African sun, and predators waiting patiently at the edges to strike their prey. No nature documentary can convey the power held in such a moment; no wonder it’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. Between safaris, luxuriate in an African retreat where the penetrating beauty of the savannah can be seen from your sauna, dining table, and your bed, or immerse yourself deeper into the fascinating history and culture of African tribes by visiting the Masai Mara.

Napa Valley, California for crush season | August-October

Each year, Napa and Sonoma, California, celebrate harvest season as the grapes that vineyards have worked hard to grow all summer long are finally ripe enough to pick. The season begins in August and ends in October, but the majority of harvesting is done in September at the start of the region’s transition into fall. During this time, wineries celebrate with a ‘bunch’ of events and festivities, including special winery tours, harvest-themed food and wine pairings, grape-stomping events, and harvest parties.

Why Go:

Between its wineries, wellness facilities, and boutique stays, Napa Valley is the ideal place to retreat to whenever you’re looking for some luxurious relaxation under the Californian sun, but the harvest season makes it that bit more special. There’s a buzz through the air at this time of year as wineries fill their barrels with a fresh harvest and bottle new and improved flavors, and celebrate with special events. As the heat of the summer slowly subsides, the September harvest season is also the perfect weather window to visit Napa with sun-drenched days and cooler nights, perfect for sipping wine late late into the evening.

More events in September

  • Burning Man | Nevada, USA | August 30-September 7
  • Glücksgefühle Festival | Hockenheimring, Germany | September 3–6 
  • Rock in Rio Brasil | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | September 4-7 + 11-13
  • San Sebastián International Film Festival | San Sebastián, Spain | September 18-26
  • Oktoberfest | Munich, Germany | September 19 – October 4
  • Monterey Jazz Festival | Monterey County Fairgrounds, California | September 25-27
  • Zurich International Film Festival | Switzerland | September 24 - October 4
  • Reykjavík International Film Festival | Iceland | September 24 - October 4

October: Sweater weather

New England, USA for Fall Foliage Season | Early - mid October

Fall in New England

Fall foliage season in New England is a natural event worthy of visitors traveling from around the world to witness. As each October begins, the forest-rich region from Vermont, to New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and even Rhode Island is painted every hue of orange, red, and brown by the cooling air. The changing scenery coincides with autumnal traditions and events that nowhere does better than New England’s quaint small towns, such as apple picking at local orchards, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, harvest festivals, and Halloween.

Why Go:

This quiet northeastern corner of the US is the embodiment of ‘sweater weather’: cosy, quaint, slow-paced, and somehow scented like a pumpkin-spiced latte. While couples can embrace the romantic, small-town vibes with cozy coffee dates and long autumnal walks, parents can go pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating with the kids in the authentic American way. But visitors of all ages can’t miss a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, Halloween is Salem, Massachusetts, and The Big E fall fair.

More events in October

  • Art Basel Paris | Grand Palais, Paris, France | October 23–25
  • Chicago Marathon 2026 | Chicago, Illinois, USA | October 11
  • Rugby League World Cup | Australia & Papua New Guinea | October 15 - November 15

November: Lights and Action

Las Vegas, Nevada for the F1 Grand Prix | November 19–21

F1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Grand Prix is confirmed for another dazzling year since its 2023 inauguration into Formula 1. This particular track, which speeds through the Las Vegas strip, is a highlight on the F1 calendar as one of the few street circuits of the competition, along with Monaco, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia. With F1 drivers speeding past glitzy lights and iconic landmarks, it has quickly become one of the most exciting and atmospheric events of the Grand Prix. In the spirit of the event, fans can head to the Grand prix Plaza and enjoy karting experiences, a 4D theater, merch stands, live entertainment, food, and best of all, meet and greets with F1 legends.

Why Go:

The Las Vegas strip is always a vibe, but during the F1 Grand Prix it’s simply iconic. The entire strip becomes a playground not only for F1s daring drivers but for fans and visitors, too. General admission to the event is only $50 and that gives you access to entertainment at the fan zone, and the ability to watch qualifying and the race itself. Meanwhile, serious fans can get paddock access for $500 which gives you access to premium seating, gourmet dining, behind-the-scenes looks, and driver meet and greets. Whether you’re an F1 fan or not, visiting Las Vegas during the F1 Grand Prix will make your experience in this wild city even more unforgettable. 

More events in November

  • Diwali, Festival of Lights | India | November 8
  • Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Throughout Mexico | November 1-2 

December: Festive Favorites

Gdansk, Poland for Christmas Market Season | Throughout December

Gdansk Christmas Market, Poland

Each year, town squares across Europe transform into winter wonderlands as they’re stuffed like turkeys with festive Christmas market stalls selling festive food, decorations, and crafts. Between the kegs of mulled wine, liters of beer, meters of bratwurst, and piles of crepes, these markets have a knack for getting even the grinchiest of grinches into the holiday spirit. While the markets are largely a German tradition, surrounding countries, including Poland, Romania, Estonia, and Czechia, also embrace the occasion, and some have been doing it better. For the traveler who prefers something less commercial and more unique, Gdansk, Poland is the holiday destination for you.

Why Go:

Like all good Christmas markets, Gdansk’s has the staple chalets selling seasonal food and gifts, a Santa’s grotto, ice-skating rink, and Christmas carolers, but unlike some German Christmas markets, it doesn’t feel overproduced and commercial. Instead, Gdansk promises visitors a deeply authentic Christmas market with reasonable prices, delectable food, a unique cultural perspective, and a darn adorable setting amongst the Old Town square’s colorful gabled buildings. It also leans into its Polish heritage, swapping the generic seasonal market food with local favorites like pierogi (dumplings), oscypek (smoked cheese), kiełbasa, and gingerbread cookies, as well as other Christmas traditions that aren’t found anywhere else in the world.

More events in December

  • Tomorrowland Thailand | Chonburi, Thailand | TBC December
  • Formula 1 – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix | Abu Dhabi | December 4-6
  • Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul) | Pampanga, Philippines | December 13
  • Natal Luz (Christmas of Lights) | Gramado, Brazil | TBC December
  • Dwijing Festival of Chirang | Chirang, Assam, India | TBC December

Where will 2026 take you?

Twelve months, dozens of events — each one a reminder that the world moves in stories, not schedules. In 2026, may travel be less about sightseeing and box-checking, and more about traveling further, exploring deeper, and discovering more. May it be about celebrating cultural events in unfamiliar places, saying “I was there” for new sports records, witnessing nature’s phenomenal phases with your own eyes, and making memories that help you remember what life is for. This is your call to travel more meaningfully in 2026. Where will the new year take you? Explore our featured destinations here, or get Tripsby to plan your next itinerary here.

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Emily Draper
December 15, 2025
10 mins