As 2025 approaches, new data shows that over a third of travelers plan to explore more next year, and nearly a quarter are willing to spend more on travel.
The report “Go Get It: How Generation Z and Y Will Travel in 2025” identifies the motivations of today’s travelers. People now seek moments that align with their identity—whether cultural celebrations, music festivals, sporting events, or film locations.
The Yayoi Kusama exhibition at NGV International will delight art lovers in Melbourne. From December 15, 2024, to April 21, 2025, visitors can explore over 180 of Kusama’s works. Kusama’s art is known for her iconic polka-dotted paintings and surreal sculptures.
In Sydney, the Mardi Gras for the Gay and Lesbian community will honor LGBTQ+ pride with flair. Running from February 14 to March 2, 2025, it includes dazzling parades, extravagant costumes, and two weeks of artistic events.
Art exhibitions, film screenings, and discussions add depth to this lively celebration of creativity and identity.
Dubai offers sports fans the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships, a premier ATP 500 event running from February 16 to March 1, 2025. This tournament attracts some of the best players in the world.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s iconic Rio de Janeiro Carnival is scheduled from February 28 to March 8, 2025. Known as the world’s largest festival, Rio’s Carnival fills the city with music, dance, and colors. Revelers join samba school parades, street parties, and vibrant costume balls, creating a cultural spectacle.
In India, the Hindu festival of colors, Holi, will transform the streets of Mumbai on March 15, 2025. Locals and visitors gather to throw colorful powder, creating a joyous, vibrant atmosphere.
Besides traditional celebrations, Mumbai offers ticketed events, parties, and music festivals that add to the experience.
R&B legend Usher is set to take the stage at the Accor Arena in Paris on April 15 and 16, 2025. Usher’s performance will include classics and new hits as part of his “Past Present Future” tour.
Music lovers heading to Portugal can enjoy Primavera Sound in Porto from June 12 to 14, 2025. The festival takes place along the stunning Atlantic coast and hosts a blend of iconic and emerging artists.
Food Zurich runs from June 12 to 22, 2025, in Zurich. It combines Swiss cuisine with global culinary trends. Over 11 days, guests can enjoy themed dinners, tastings, and food tours—traditional dishes and modern gastronomy showcase Zurich’s rich culinary scene.
Bordeaux, France, hosts its famed Wine Festival from June 19 to 22, 2025, turning the city into a wine lover’s paradise. The festival features a wine route, tasting opportunities, and vintage showcases.
Along Bordeaux’s scenic quays, visitors can experience the region’s celebrated winemaking heritage.
Ed Sheeran’s European tour includes a three-day stop in Hamburg, Germany, from July 4 to 6, 2025. The pop star’s “Mathematics” tour spans ten countries and promises memorable performances.
Manchester, UK, will host the Oasis Live ’25 Tour from July 11 to 20, 2025. The legendary Britpop band will reunite to mark the 30th anniversary of their Maybe album. For fans, it’s a nostalgic return to the music that defined an era.
Berlin’s Lollapalooza festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary on July 12 and 13, 2025. The festival has a diverse lineup, bringing together international headliners and emerging talent. It attracts music lovers from across Europe, creating an electric atmosphere.
From July 26 to August 3, 2025, Amsterdam’s Pride Week fills the city with color and energy. Highlights include the canal parade, over 80 decorated boats, and events celebrating LGBTQ+ pride. The festival embodies Dutch inclusivity and draws visitors from all over the world.
From August 1 to 25, 2025, Edinburgh’s Festival Fringe will transform the Scottish capital. With over 3,000 performances across hundreds of venues, the city has become a playground for the arts. Comedy, theater, and live entertainment make it a must-visit event for fans of the creative arts.
Budapest’s Sziget Festival will take place from August 6 to 11, 2025, drawing crowds to Óbudai-sziget, a 100-hectare island in the Danube. Known as one of Europe’s most prominent cultural events, Sziget combines music, art, and non-stop festivities.
It’s a week-long party that attracts nearly half a million people.
In England, the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup will unfold over six weekends, from August 22 to September 27. Matches will occur across eight cities, including Brighton, making this the biggest Women’s Rugby World Cup ever. With affordable tickets, the event will be accessible to fans nationwide.
Tokyo will host the World Athletics Championships from September 13 to 21, 2025, featuring athletes from over 200 countries. The event, one of the world’s largest sporting competitions, brings together thousands of athletes.
In Germany, Munich’s Oktoberfest will return from September 20 to October 5, 2025. Known for its lively atmosphere, Oktoberfest invites visitors to enjoy Bavarian traditions, beer, and hearty food. The festival’s roots date back to 1810, making it a time-honored celebration.
Phnom Penh’s Water Festival will occur from November 4 to 6, 2025. This Cambodian festival reverses the Tonle Sap River’s flow with boat races, fireworks, and music.
This festival has been celebrated since the 12th century and remains vital to Cambodian culture.
On November 6, 2025, Thailand will celebrate Loy Krathong, the Festival of Lights. Participants float decorated baskets on rivers and lakes, filling the night with candlelight and beauty. Loy Krathong is a centuries-old tradition that celebrates the end of the rainy season.
Singapore’s ZoukOut will electrify Siloso Beach on December 7, 2025, with an unforgettable electronic music lineup. Thousands of dance fans will gather for the annual event, which is organized by Zouk Singapore and has a beachfront setting.
In Mexico City, foodies will flock to Taquería El Califa de León, which earned a Michelin star in 2024. The modest taco spot, famous for its Gaonera taco, offers a culinary experience in the San Rafael neighborhood. It’s a must-visit for anyone with a love for Mexican cuisine.
Fans of Netflix’s Kaos, a modern Greek mythology retelling, can explore filming locations across Andalusia, Spain. While the series occurs in a mythical world, many scenes were filmed in Seville and the Costa del Sol.
Seoul, South Korea, will again host the filming of Squid Game’s anticipated second season. Filmed entirely in Seoul, the dystopian thriller draws fans to the city’s urban landscapes. Squid Game has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting visitors to its real-life locations.
For fans of HBO’s The White Lotus, season three will be filmed in Thailand. Featuring Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui, the show explores Thailand’s stunning temples and villas. The White Lotus is known for its luxurious settings and social satire.
From artistic exhibits and colorful festivals to sports tournaments and exclusive performances, 2025 offers something for everyone. The trend toward experiential travel has inspired more people to seek out moments that resonate personally, creating memories that last a lifetime.