UnitedStatesFestivals
FortWorthStockyards|FortWorth,TX:
Dust off your boots and bring your appetite, spring in the Fort Worth Stockyards is packed with festivals worth planning a trip around. The Fort Worth Music Festival runs February 26-March 1, 2026, bringing more than 30 artists across four stages to iconic venues like Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall and the White Elephant Saloon, with a lineup rooted in Texas country, Americana, blues, and indie rock.
The excitement continues with the Fort Worth Food + Wine Festivalreturning April 9-12, 2026, offering four days of chef-driven events like Tacos + Tequila and The Big Brunch, all benefiting the Fort Worth Food + Wine Foundation.
Rounding out the season, BBQ lovers should also plan for the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate’s 5th Annual Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival, where top BBQ joints serve samples from noon to 4 p.m. alongside live sets from The Georges, The Derailers, and Dale Watson
WheretoStay:
· Hotel Drover: Hang your hat and kick off your boots at the rustic-luxe retreat, Hotel Drover, nestled in the award-winning Mule Alley district. Enjoy libations in the swanky Lobby Bar, indulge in the very best of Texas cuisine at 97 West Kitchen & Bar, design your own personal pair of Lucchese boots on-property at the first Lucchese Custom Collection and take advantage of all The Backyard has to offer from s’mores over fire pits and live local music to a day by the ranch-style heated pool and hot tub.
SanDiego,CA:
James Beard Winners Food & Wine Festival: Rancho Bernardo Inn will once again welcome epicureans for the second annual James Beard Winners Food & Wine Festival, returning April 30–May 3, 2026. Building on the success of its inaugural year, the multi-day luxury culinary celebration will bring together an acclaimed roster of James Beard Award–winning chefs and leading voices in wine and spirits for an immersive weekend of elevated dining, hands-on experiences, and refined indulgence.
Set against the resort’s lush, garden-filled grounds, the festival will feature a curated series of events, from intimate receptions and interactive culinary and beverage programming to a signature multicourse chef’s dinner, designed to showcase culinary mastery while celebrating Rancho Bernardo Inn’s reputation as one of Southern California’s premier food and wine destinations. Additional details, including participating chefs and event programming, will be announced closer to the festival.
SantaBarbara,CA
The Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts and educational organization dedicated to discovering and showcasing the best in independent and international cinema Over the past 40 years, SBIFF has become one of the top 10 film festivals in the United States – attracting 100,000 attendees and offering 11 days of 200+ films, tributes and symposiums, fulfilling their mission to engage, enrich, and inspire the Santa Barbara community through film.
WheretoStay
· Hotel Californian | Having recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of the property’s original 1925 opening, Santa Barbara’s iconic Hotel Californian, just steps away from the beach, has redefined luxury in the American Riviera over the course of the past century. The front door to the city’s vibrant Funk Zone neighborhood, the hotel is known for its stylish atmosphere and eclectic decor and caters to the pursuit of getting lost in the experience with cutting-edge gastronomy at its signature restaurant Blackbird, inventive cocktails at library bar Djinn, and locally inspired fare at Goat Tree.
LagunaBeach,CA
Tucked away between San Diego and Los Angeles, Laguna Beach is a natural haven for travelers looking to start the year with a spark of creativity and adventure Artists and visitors can come together during the annual Sawdust Art Festival Spring Show. A longtime local favorite, the festival brings Laguna’s artistic roots to life with handcrafted works from local artists, live music, art demonstrations, and seasonal bites, all set within a relaxed, open-air village just minutes from the coast
WheretoStay:
Surf & Sand Laguna Beach (above): A quintessential beachfront escape perched directly on the sand, the newly renovated Surf & Sand Laguna Beach offers uninterrupted ocean views and the soothing soundtrack of waves just steps from every room. Guests can enjoy coastalinspired dining at Splashes, coastal-inspired spa treatments at Aquaterra Spa, and effortless beach access, making it an ideal choice for travelers craving a classic, beachfront Laguna experience.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach (belo:w) Tucked into a scenic canyon between the beach and the mountains, The Ranch at Laguna Beach delivers a nature-forward retreat grounded in sustainability and wellness Known for its immersive outdoor programming, award-winning golf course, and beautifully rustic-modern accommodations, the property captures the heart of Laguna’s laid-back elegance while offering a peaceful alternative to the shoreline scene.
Healdsburg,CA:
The Healdsburg Food & Wine Experience (May 14-17, 2026) will showcase the region's finest culinary talents, world-class wines, and vibrant agricultural heritage, offering an immersive journey through Sonoma County's flavors Guests can expect a weekend filled with tastings, chef-led demonstrations, and exclusive wine pairings in the heart of wine country.
WheretoStay:
· Appellation Healdsburg is the debut property from culinary-first hotel brand Appellation, founded by Michelin-starred Chef Charlie Palmer. The 108-room retreat celebrates Sonoma’s agricultural roots with destination dining at Folia Bar & Kitchen and Andy’s Beeline Rooftop, complemented by on-site culinary gardens.
27 North: Located just steps from the Healdsburg Plaza, 27 North is a 16-room boutique hotel reimagining the Sonoma Wine Country stay with spirited energy and experience-driven design. Formerly known as Hotel Les Mars, the property was just recently reborn in summer 2025 under Foley Entertainment Group. Anchored by Arandas, its stylish Mexican restaurant and bar, and featuring immersive music and culinary programming throughout the week, 27 North offers everything from pop-up wine tastings, live music brunches, luxury car partnerships, nearby wellness programming, and everything in between
ReadSophisticatedLiving’sfeatureon27North intheJan/Feb2026issuehere.
California Wine Country: BottleRock Napa Valley (May 22-24, 2026) is a three-day annual music, food, and drink festival held over Memorial Day weekend in Napa, California, where top musical acts perform across multiple stages alongside world-class Napa Valley wines, gourmet cuisine, and unique culinary experiences.
WheretoStay:
MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa (below): Nestled in the heart of Wine Country, MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa is a 69-room boutique luxury destination perfect for vinos headed to BottleRock Napa Valley. Located within twenty-five minutes of festival grounds, the six-acre property features an array of amenities curated for festival-goers in need of an intimate escape, including a mid-century pool for morning relaxation, farm-fresh weekend brunch at Layla for pre-show fuel, as well as a spa and select guest rooms with outdoor showers/bathtubs to unwind after a day in the sun enjoying all the headliners
·WheretoStay:
The Jefferson, DC – A timeless icon in the heart of Washington DC, The Jefferson, DC is an opulent and historic hideaway that’s marked by refined elegance, unforgettable service, and world-class sophistication Within minutes of the blooming cherry blossom trees, there is no better place to enjoy the spring’s most anticipated celebration.
The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner (below) – Just a short distance from the iconic landmarks of downtown Washington D.C. during the height of the cherry blossoms, guests can enjoy premium accommodations; speciality treatments at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Spa, featuring an indoor pool; delicious bites at signature restaurant, ENTYSE, featuring culturally-inspired dishes and cocktails available for indulgement; and direct access to luxury shopping destination, Tysons Galleria, connected right to the hotel.
Washington,DC:
Welcome spring in the nation’s capital at the Cherry Blossom Festival, a beautiful celebration that marks the bloom of the iconic trees. This multiweek festival hosts a number of events including the opening ceremony, Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza, National Cherry Blossom Parade, the Pink Tie Party annual gala, and more.
The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City – A leading luxury hotel located in the heart of Arlington across the Potomac River from Washington D.C.’s most captivating landmarks during Cherry Blossom season, the hotel features luxurious guestrooms; state-of-the-art meetings and event spaces, including a 7,200 square foot Grand Ballroom; and sophisticated Mediterranean-inspired bites and signature cocktails at the lively Santé, the property’s signature restaurant.
Charleston,SC:
Charleston is an ideal coastal spring getaway with plenty of city-wide happenings that invite travelers to experience the charm, culture, and flavors of this Southern gem.
Taking place Friday, March 6th, the Charleston Wine + Food, a festival featuring culinary icons, renowned wine and spirits, and the best of local food and culture, returns to the city for its 21st year.
February 13-15, nature and spotting enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE), a beloved Charleston tradition that showcases wildlife art, conservation, fine sporting exhibitions, and outdoor experiences throughout the city.
For tennis fans, the Credit One Charleston Open (COCO) brings world-class women’s tennis to Daniel Island each Spring March 28th-April 5th As North America’s largest women’s-only tennis tournament, the event combines elite competition with Charleston’s signature coastal elegance. With mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and a full calendar of signature events, Spring is one of the best times to explore everything the Holy City has to offer.
WheretoStay:
The Charleston Place (below)
This landmark hotel in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, offers a luxurious and historic experience. This iconic property boasts elegant rooms and suites, a rooftop pool with stunning city views, and a renowned spa. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, which is having a special pop-up by acclaimed chef Daniel Humm this year
ClearwaterBeach,FL:
Clearwater Beach serves as the perfect spring getaway, anchored by the 12th anniversary of the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival (March 27 - April 12), Florida’s premier sand-sculpting event featuring world-class art and nightly sunset celebrations
The festival offers guests an immersive experience with over 24,000-square feet of professional sand galleries, free sculpting classes, and live entertainment under the Florida sun.
WheretoStay:
JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa (below)
Kailua-Kona,HI:
Home to some of the best hidden gems in the world of craft brew, the Kona Brewers Fest led by The Rotary Clubs of West Hawaiʻi and The Ke Kai Ala Foundation, is a beer lover's dream with island style cuisine and brews outside on the beautiful shores of Kamakahonu Bay Raise a pint to Kona Brewers Festival on Sunday March 14th and experience live music, local brews and delicious food on the lawn of the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort.
WheretoStay:
King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort (below)
· Experience the Big Island at King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Resortl, a culturally rich resort set on historic land once governed by King Kamehameha the Great after uniting the Hawaiian Islands. Adjacent to Kailua Pier, the renovated hotel features contemporary guest rooms and suites, oceanfront dining, an infinity pool, immersive cultural offerings, and easy access to iconic island activities just steps from the property.
Miami,FL:
Miami is full of action this spring, with the headlining Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix (May 1-3) drawing high-energy spectators to the track in its 5th year. Additional festivals kicking off the spring season in Miami include Jazz in the Gardens Fest (March 7-8) as Miami’s largest gathering of jazz, R&B and hip-hop artists; Miami Beach Pride (April 2-12); and Miami Film Festival (April 9-19)
WheretoStay:
The Setai, Miami Beach (top right)
An icon of style in Miami Beach, The Setai offers an ultra-luxe oceanfront escape with unparalleled service on the fringes of South Beach. Adorned by palm trees, the resort offers access to three pools each set at their own soothing temperatures; a private beach club; signature treatments at its award-winning spa curated in partnership with luxury skincare brand, Valmont; and unparalleled dining experiences at Jaya, Ocean Grill, and JAPÓN, the property’s new contemporary Japanese restaurant. Guests can also experience the property’s latest offering, Jo’s Bar, with its top shelf spirits and expertly crafted cocktails
Denver,Colorado:
Running May 28–31, 2026, the third annual Outside Day Festival takes over Denver expanding to the Auraria Campus with headline performances by Death Cab for Cutie, My Morning Jacket, and Cage The Elephant.
Blending outdoor industry events, adventure film screenings, wellness activations, and an industry summit on May 28–29, the immersive, all-ages experience bridges the energy of a conference with the spirit of a festival, complete with music, speakers, gear demos, and hands-on activities
WheretoStay:
The Ritz-Carlton, Denver
·Located in the heart of the Mile High City and just 10 minutes from the Outside Days venue, The RitzCarlton, Denver is an urban luxury retreat featuring 205 spacious guest rooms and a luxury spa perfect for recharging after long festival days. Most notably, the hotel has just debuted a stunning renovation of its signature restaurant, ELWAY’S Downtown, unveiling a refreshed menu that captures the spirit of Colorado, inspired by football legend John Elway.
Snowmass,Colorado:
Say goodbye to ski season in true Snowmass style at Snowmass Spring Festival. Taking over Elk Camp April 11, the closing weekend signature Surf & Snow Beach Party brings live DJs, a legendary pond skim, beachy vibes, hot tubs, and plenty of food and drink specials proof that spring skiing is anything but mellow. Then on Sunday, April 12, enjoy a final day of spring skiing to round out the weekend in style.
WheretoStay:
Viewline Snowmass Resort (below)
· Perched in the heart of Snowmass Village, Viewline Resort Snowmass is a 257-room retreat where luxury meets outdoor adventure, offering ski-in/ski-out access to Snowmass Mountain. Guests can also enjoy Viewline Spa by RAKxa, the destination’s only ski-in/ski-out spa, providing a seamless transition from the thrill of the slopes to the serenity of alpine wellness.
InternationalFestivals
Bali,Indonesia:
Nyepi (March 19-20, 2026) is Bali’s Hindu New Year, a unique, all-island Day of Silence observed with a 24-hour shutdown for meditation, selfreflection, and purification, featuring strict rules like no lights, work, travel, or entertainment, and even airport closures, all to welcome the new Saka year peacefully. The days leading up to Nyepi are brimming with festivals, parades, and celebrations galore throughout all of the Balinese villages, and then, for 24 hours on Nyepi Day, the island comes to a complete standstill. Marking a profound moment for spiritual and cultural celebrations, for many, participating in Nyepi in Bali is a once-in-alifetime experience
WheretoStay:
Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape (below):
Located in the heart of the Balinese jungle, Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape is an adults only hideaway that offers escapists an intimate and eco-barefoot retreat for personal discovery, culture, and wellbeing. New for 2026, Buahan has unveiled the Eat, Pray, Love (Buahan Edition) journey for travelers seeking renewal in the new year and on the heels of the novel’s 20th anniversary, inspired by the surrounding jungle and guiding guests through sensory local dining, mindful meditation, and sacred blessings
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam transforms into a floral masterpiece each April during the Tulip Festival, when hundreds of thousands of blooms decorate the city's public spaces and private gardens. It is a quintessential spring journey, offering travelers the chance to experience the Netherlands' most iconic flower in peak season through curated city-wide displays and nearby botanical events.
WheretoStay:
· Conservatorium Hotel: The Auspicious Spring in Amsterdam package celebrates the city’s iconic tulip season and the hotel’s new chapter as Mandarin Oriental Conservatorium, Amsterdam, with a curated experience focused on renewal Guests enjoy a minimum two-night stay featuring daily breakfast, signature cocktails, dinner at Ottolenghi, and tickets to the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens to witness the spring blooms firsthand.
Wickaninnish Inn | Tofino, BC, Canada
Pacific Rim Whale Festival, March 14-21, 2026 celebrates the return of the Gray Whales the the region March begins the migration of approximately 16,000 Gray Whales from Baja to Alaska, right past the windows of the Wickaninnish Inn. Local partners offer tours to view the majestic mammals in the wild and also,
Pacific Rim Whale Festival offers educational events celebrating the return of these great ocean giants for visitors and locals.From resident gray whales and humpbacks to transient orcas and abundant marine wildlife including sea otters, Tofino is an incredible destination to discover
Salzburg Austria | March 27 - April 6, 2026
St.Martin
SXM Festival is an annual music, art, culture, and lifestyle festival held each March on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin / Sint Maarten. It’s become one of the region’s most iconic destination events, blending world class electronic music with the island’s natural beauty and vibrant local culture
WheretoStay:
· Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel (top right)
Authentic and inviting, Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel, is arrayed across six heritage mansions, all luxuriously restored in the heart of San Miguel de Allende. Mexican heritage is woven into every detail, from the stucco walls to the sublime cuisine, while shaded courtyards and trickling fountains, vaulted archways and woodbeamed ceilings create a magical Mexican sanctuary. A haven of color and culture, guests can experience artist residencies and immersive workshops, in-between pioneering gastronomy, botanical wellness and exciting celebrations .
The Salzburg Easter Festival, founded by Herbert von Karajan in 1967, is a premier 10-day classical music and opera event Held in Salzburg’s historic venues, it features world-class orchestras, soloists, and opera stars performing symphonies, concertos, choral works, and fully staged operas under internationally acclaimed conductors.
WheretoStay:
· Hotel Nesslerhof | Grossarl, Austria (next page, left)
Nestled in the picturesque Alpine valley of Grossarl, Hotel Nesslerhof stands as a 5-star luxury spa and ski retreat where modern comfort meets warm hospitality and culinary excellence. This year-round sanctuary, with ski-in/ski-out access to Ski amadé, offers guests a vast Luxury Spa with panoramic pools and over 100 bespoke treatments, while its Culinarium provides a full-day dining experience centered on regional ingredients from the hotel’s own butchery With elegant rooms, including a Pool Suite with a rooftop terrace and fireplace, Nesslerhof is the perfect destination for families and adventure seekers to indulge in pure alpine wellness.
Cayman Islands
Visitors flock to the Cayman Islands to enjoy the Cayman Islands Tourist and Visitors Bureau’s annual Pirates Week festivities The festival, developed by Mr. Rudi Selzer, was created to enhance tourism and celebrate the rich history of the islands. The three-week festival has run every year since 1977, occurring between October 29 and November 5.
Where to Stay:
· Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa (rendering below)
The soon-to-open Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa promises a world-class stay on 900 feet of spectacular oceanfront, ideally situated near Seven Mile Beach and just ten minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport. With the resort as a home base, opportunities for snorkeling are endless; the Cayman Islands offer an unparalleled snorkeling paradise in the crystalline waters of the western Caribbean with over 365 dive sites
In addition to 382 luxurious guestrooms and suites, this luxury haven invites guests to indulge at its sumptuous spa, unwind by multiple pools, and maintain wellness at the on-site fitness center. The beachfront resort will redefine the Caribbean getaway with inspired design, curated amenities, meaningful guest experiences and bespoke, world-class service
