A comprehensive list of international events and travel openings to put on your 2024 radar.
JANUARY
Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, China
Where: Harbin
When: January 5-February 5, 2024
Mark your calendars: International travel events and openings for 2024
By Trisha Torres
NZ Herald·
13 mins to read
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Swing carousel at Oktoberfest in Germany. Photo / Getty Images
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The world’s largest ice and snow festival is quite the spectacle and one you can’t quite fathom until you’re gazing skywards at a giant, translucent replica of the Athens Acropolis. A highlight of the calendar, marvel 100+ ice sculptures across the city of Harbin, a one-hour, 40-minute flight from Beijing. Now a major international event, its bonus activities include snowmobiling, ice skating, and dog sledging. Don’t miss a ride on the towering 120m Snowflake Ferris Wheel. icefestivalharbin.com
FEBRUARY
Rio Carnaval, Brazil
Where: Rio de Janeiro
When: February 9-17
Gracing the bucket lists of travellers across the globe, there’s simply no avoiding the world’s most famous jamboree: Rio Carnaval. Kickstarting Lent, these days the Catholic event is more memorable for its feathered headpieces. While jubilant street parades suffocate every inch of the city, you’ll also want to experience the Sambadrome, a stadium that seats 80,000 spectators, while the samba and surprises continue. It’s also where the city’s top samba schools showcase their best talent. The energy is as bold as the costumes and festivities run well into the small hours, which is the stock standard approach to any night out in Brazil. riocarnaval.org
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Super Bowl LVIII, US
Where: Las Vegas, Nevada
When: February 11, 2024
Ready to cap off the 2023 NFL season? The next Super Bowl is notable for being the first to be held in Nevada and the Las Vegas Valley area, but unless you’re US-born and bred, you may not appreciate the importance of this epic event. So, consider this: in 2023, a 30-second Super Bowl advert cost circa US$7 million ($11.7m). This is very much a big deal in every sense. Get set for the infamous half-time show, which always makes international headlines, with eight-time Grammy winner, Usher taking to the stage. Catch the live action on TVNZ 1 this February 11, 2024, or make a sports lover’s dream come true by joining the NFL Ticket Exchange waitlist. nfl.com
Berlin International Film Festival, Germany
Where: Berlin
When: February 15-25, 2024
Join Berlinale for a global cinematic journey and a celebration of unconventional German films from 1960 to 2000, curated from the Deutsche Kinemathek Archives. So much more than a few flicks and a scoop of popcorn, the entire city becomes a hub of art and glamour, offering diverse cinematic experiences and industry discussions that will make you fall back in love with the excitement of the big screen (we’re tutting at you, Netflix). Tickets range from $19-$31. berlinale.de
MARCH
Vendimia: Mendoza’s Grape Harvest Festival, Argentina
Where: Mendoza City
When: February 28 – March 3, 2024
Easily the biggest event on the Mendoza calendar every year since 1936, the Mendoza’s Grape Harvest Festival officially starts in February but it runs until March. It’s a time to celebrate the region’s world-famous wine-making industry via song, dance, a big parade and OTT performances - and most importantly, free wine for spectators. It has all the hallmarks of a festival that’s been running for decades, including a beauty contest to crown the Queen of Vendimia. Just don’t expect anything that feels old-hat; the penultimate performance delivers enough glitz and glam to rival Las Vegas. argentina.travel/en
APRIL
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, US
Where: Indio, California
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When: April 12-14 and 19-21, 2024
This one needs little introduction. Get your outfits ready for the music festival of the year. Although the lineup is yet to be revealed, past years have seen amazing performances by artists such as Blackpink and Harry Styles. Coachella is always a sell-out, and never fails to impress with its Californian location, the biggest names in music across a diverse range of genres and of course, outfits that play out like a desert-based MET Gala. For now, you’d better head to the website and sign up for the waitlist. Then keep every finger and toe crossed to score tickets. coachella.com
La Biennale di Venezia, Italy
Where: Venice
When: April 23-November 24, 2024
As if you need any more reasons to visit Venice, why not experience the very pinnacle of Italy’s contemporary art and architecture at La Biennale di Venezia - one of the world’s largest contemporary visual art exhibitions? 2024 marks the 60th edition, titled “Foreigners Everywhere,” (consider yourself part of the display!) curated by Adriano Pedrosa. Quite easily the most prestigious art event on the calendar, it’s often described as “the Olympics of the art world” so if you have any artistic talent hiding within, this is the very place to coax it out. labiennale.org
MAY
Electric Daisy Carnival, US
Where: Las Vegas, Nevada
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When: May 17-19, 2024
If you miss out on Coachella tickets, never fear, EDC is here. The catch? You’ll have to enjoy a big beat drop. This one’s a grand celebration of electronic dance music that attracts more than 500,000 music lovers. The festival features top EDM DJs from around the world, alongside a variety of art installations, carnival rides, and circus-style performances. Tickets span from general admission to VIP passes. You can even opt to tie the knot with their wedding packages. Lineup details are to be announced. lasvegas.electricdaisycarnival.com
Cinco de Mayo, Mexico
Where: Puebla
When: May 5, 2024
First, a little history. Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Secondly, a little light-shedding on the event: it’s not celebrated throughout Mexico. It is, however, a fantastic time to visit the Mexican town of Puebla, where the festival originated, as well as the US, where the celebration has been wholeheartedly adopted. The former still enjoys putting on historical re-enactments, parades, fireworks and costumes. The latter might involve more beers and ruckus parties. visitmexico.com
JUNE
Glastonbury Festival, England
Where: Pilton, Somerset
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When: June 26-30, 2024
Glastonbury or Glasto is a quintessential British experience. Over five days, it blends contemporary music, dance, comedy, theatre, circus, and art. Pop and rock icons share the stage with emerging talent. Beyond music, it emphasises sustainability and counterculture. Ticket proceeds support charities such as Oxfam, Greenpeace, and WaterAid. Lineup details are to be announced but one thing you should expect is mud, and lots of it. glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
Cricket World Cup, West Indies & US
Where: West Indies & US
When: June 4-30, 2024
Prepare for the ultimate showdown in the world of cricket. 20 teams will contest the tournament with England the defending champions, having won the previous edition in 2022. It is scheduled to be hosted by the West Indies and the US and will be the first ICC World Cup tournament to feature matches played in the US. cricketworldcup.com
JULY
Tour de France, France
Where: Florence, Italy-Nice
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When: June 29-July 21, 2024
For the first time in its history, the Tour de France will not finish in Paris, to make way for the 2024 Olympic Games. Still, avid cycling fans can line the banks of the world’s most famous bike ride by following the official route online. It’s a really fun experience to be part of and the tour passes many idyllic French villages worthy of a stay. Just make sure you’re not the one waving a banner that causes a pile-up. letour.fr/en
Comic-Con International: San Diego, US
Where: San Diego, California
When: July 25-28, 2024
Whether you’ve been reading comics since you were a wee nipper or you have tweenagers obsessed with Marvel, it’s a great excuse to visit San Diego for Comic-Con International. The ultimate pop culture experience, enjoy a fun-filled day of comics, movies, TV shows, video games, and more. Get ready for panels, exhibitions, celebrity appearances, cosplay, and exclusive merchandise - everything to inspire our future animators. Afterwards, soak up the Cali-lifestyle in San Diego, a city famed for sea, surf and the unforgettable San Diego Zoo: a whopping 40ha. comic-con.org
AUGUST
Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Scotland
Where: Edinburgh
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When: August 2-26, 2024
As the world’s largest arts festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe offers a platform for creative expression, mostly of the smile-inducing kind. From thought-provoking political shows to avant-garde performances and comedy shows that could make or break an artist’s career, the Fringe Festival has launched many a comedian on to the international stage. Don’t worry if you’re opposed to laughing - there’s something to captivate every artistic sensibility amidst the bustling streets of Edinburgh. edfringe.com
Olympic Games, France
Where: Paris
When: July 26-August 11, 2024
Summer in Paris, perhaps? Paris 2024 marks the third time Paris hosted this international multi-sport event, following 1900 and 1924. The sports programme mirrors the 2020 Summer Olympics with exciting additions like surfing, sport climbing and skateboarding. Spread across 95 venues in Paris and the surrounding region, the main sites include the Stade de France, Stade Olympique Yves-du-Manoir, and Roland Garros tennis complex. paris2024.org
Fuji Rock Festival, Japan
Where: Naeba, Japan
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When: Late July 2024: Dates TBC
Enjoy some music with a side of Fuji. Returning to the stunning Naeba Ski Resort in Yuzawa, Niigata Prefecture, Japan, this is one of Japan’s largest and most sought-after music festivals, attracting over 100,000 fans each year. With a diverse lineup spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music, previous headliners include Foo Fighters, Radiohead and The Strokes. The festival is held outdoors in a beautiful mountain setting, and attendees can camp on-site. en.fujirockfestival.com
Paralympic Games, France
Where: Paris
When: August 28-September 8, 2024
These games mark the first time Paris will host the Paralympics. It is also expected to be one of the largest and most inclusive sporting events in history. The Games will be a major celebration of the athleticism and resilience of people with disabilities, and they will provide a global platform to promote diversity and inclusion. paralympic.org
SEPTEMBER
Oktoberfest, Germany
Where: Munich
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When: September 21-October 6
We know the event’s titled Oktoberfest but the world’s largest Volksfest kicks off in September. The weeks-long festivities date back hundreds of years and now attract more than six million revellers. It’s as much a carnival as it is a beer festival, with scores of beer tents, from high-energy to family-friendly - some with more than 10,000 seats, as well as Munich’s best breweries showcasing a German type of pale lager called Helles. Dunkel Bier (dark lager) is also available. Don’t forget to fully embrace Bavarian culture by dressing up in your best lederhosen and dirndls. oktoberfest.de/en
OCTOBER
Frankfurt Book Fair, Germany
Where: Frankfurt
When: October 16-20, 2024
One for the bookworms - get ready for the Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest celebration of literature and publishing. Explore a vast literary landscape, connect with authors and publishers, and discover the latest literary treasures from around the globe. With dedicated zones for children’s books, academic texts, digital innovations, and more, it caters to every bibliophile’s dream. expobeds.com
NOVEMBER
Pushkar International Camel Fair, India
Where: Pushkar, Rajasthan
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When: November 9-15, 2024
Here’s one if you’re looking for niche. The Pushkar International Camel Fair takes place annually in Rajasthan, in the Indian town of Pushkar. It spans two weeks and offers camel races, beauty contests, cultural performances, and a variety of stalls for local crafts, souvenirs, and food. The fair also hosts outdoor activities such as hot air ballooning, horse riding and quad biking. Highlights include the Harmony Half Marathon, tug-of-war comps, traditional Indian games and bizarrely (but somewhat intriguingly) the longest moustache competition. If India is on your hit list in 2024, this lesser-known spectacle would make a fun add-on. pushkarcamelfair.com
World Food Championships, US
Where: Dallas, Texas
When: November: Dates TBC
Culinary excellence takes centre stage here. Indulge in a global gastronomic journey, as talented chefs and food enthusiasts compete in a flavoursome showdown. Sample delicious food from all over the world, watch cooking demonstrations and participate in interactive activities. The WFC is also a great place to learn about new food trends and products. The WFC also features more than 100 categories of competition, including barbecue, dessert, and seafood, among others. worldfoodchampionships.com
DECEMBER
Light Festival Amsterdam, Netherlands
Where: Amsterdam
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When: November - January: Dates TBC
Next year marks the 13th edition of this magical, mid-winter light show in the Netherlands’ capital city. Stroll along the canals of Amsterdam, hot chocolate in hand, and gaze at the array of bright lights, colour and imaginative light installations. For something extra special, book a Light Festival canal cruise. winterfestivalamsterdam.com
HOTELS, CRUISES & NEW EXPERIENCES
Raffles Sentosa Resort and Spa, Singapore
Raffles Sentosa Resort and Spa is a luxury retreat on Sentosa Island, overlooking Tanjong Beach. It offers 62 private villas with pools and terraces. The resort draws inspiration from the original Raffles Hotel’s beachfront concept. Facilities include a bar, restaurants, fitness centre, event spaces, and a grand ballroom. True to its legacy, expect timeless Raffles hospitality with Raffles Butlers and the Raffles Spa.
Where: Sentosa Island, Singapore
When: Opening in Early 2024
Six Senses Kyoto, Japan
Six Senses Kyoto, part of the brand’s worldwide expansion, opens in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, marking its debut in Japan. With 81 guest rooms surrounding a central courtyard, it offers an oasis in downtown Kyoto, strategically located for exploring Kyoto’s culture. Amenities include a spa, fitness centre, and dining options.
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Where: Kyoto
When: Opening in 2024
Orient Express La Dolce Vita, Italy
Orient Express La Dolce Vita aims to capture 1960s Italian culture’s elegance. Six trains offer one to three-night itineraries, departing Rome’s Termini station and exploring up to 14 Italian regions. It debuts in late 2024, with eight routes, including Tuscany’s vineyards and Sicilian coast. The project also introduces the first Orient Express Hotel, Minerva, in Rome, celebrating Italy’s glamorous 1960s La Dolce Vita.
MSC Euribia - November
Debuting in the Middle East in 2024, MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises’ newest LNG-powered ship, offers cruises departing from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Doha. The winter schedule runs from November 2024 to April 2025, covering destinations in UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain. Replacing MSC Virtuosa from 2023-24, Euribia also features repositioning cruises connecting Europe.
Where: Departures from three different ports in the Arabian Gulf.
When: 2024-25 season
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Sun Princess
Princess Cruises’ 4000-passenger Sun Princess, a Sphere-class ship, debuts in February 2024 with new features for families. Highlights include the first sea rollglider, Sea Breeze, a ropes course, and Coastal Climb. The ship introduces Signature and Reserve Collection suites, each offering exclusive amenities such as private restaurants, lounges, and sundecks.
When: February 2024
Queen Anne
After a 12-year wait, Cunard will unveil the 3000-passenger Queen Anne in May 2024. The ship showcases culinary innovations. Partnering with two-Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux, they’ve revamped the Queens Grill and Golden Lion pub menus. Tramonto offers Mediterranean outdoor dining. Speciality restaurants include Aji Wa (Japanese), Aranya (Indian), and Sir Samuels (steakhouse).
When: May 2024
