Incredible Journeys to Plan for 2024

There's nothing quite as thrilling as the idea of organizing an unforgettable adventure for the coming year. If travel is on your agenda for 2024, you're in good company. Discover inspiration with these 21 exceptional events happening worldwide that are definitely worth the journey.

Festivals

Carnival, Brazil

Important dates: February 9–17

If you’re eager to kick off the year with a bang, the Rio de Janeiro Carnival in Brazil is an unmissable celebration. In the week leading up to Lent, Brazilians don vibrant, glittering costumes and dance through the lively streets of Rio every night. Prepare for samba dancing, music until dawn, and unforgettable experiences.

Afrika Burn

Important dates: April 29–May 5

Yearning for a desert adventure filled with inspiration? AfrikaBurn is a six-day festival that attracts individuals from around the globe to the dry expanses of Quaggafontein in South Africa. With the aim to “create a world anew,” AfrikaBurn is inspired by Burning Man in the US and is celebrated for its radical inclusivity and limitless creative expression.

Lavender Festival

Important dates: Mid-July (2024 dates to be announced)

If Croatia had a signature scent, it would undoubtedly be lavender, as the country’s fields produce a stunning purple display that's worth experiencing. Each year, the island of Hvar celebrates its lavender heritage with a festival featuring lavender-infused perfumes, pastries, concerts, and exhibitions highlighting the plant's history.

Fiesta de la Vendimia

Important dates: First week of March

Attention wine enthusiasts: during the grape harvest season, the usually tranquil city of Mendoza in Argentina transforms into a vibrant celebration for the Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia. From grape picking to tasting the finished wine, you'll gain an insider's view of the Argentine wine industry. Beyond enjoying the local wines, indulge in Mendoza's culinary delights, watch the grand parade, and experience folk songs and dances.

The festival may kick off as early as January, but the main parade and performances take place in the first week of March.

Mongolian Naadam Festival

Important dates: July 11–15

Mongolia is renowned for its vast landscapes and excellent stargazing opportunities, but each year, you can also immerse yourself in ancient traditions and celebrate its rich history at the Naadam Festival. The main festivities occur in Ulaanbaatar and include opening and closing ceremonies, along with competitions in Mongolia's 'three manly sports': wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

The event in Ulaanbaatar requires tickets, but entry to local Naadam Festival events across the country is usually free.

National Braai Day

Important date: September 24

In South Africa, National Braai Day is celebrated as an extension of Heritage Day. The country boasts 11 national languages, but one term that resonates universally is 'braai.'

Braai is the cherished South African tradition of barbecue. While celebrations take place nationwide, most locals gather in their yards and on the streets to savor grilled boerewors (spicy sausages) and various cuts of meat. Make friends with locals or visit a nearby braai restaurant to immerse yourself in the festivities.

Music and Theatre Events

Primavera Sound

Important dates: May 29–June 2

If music travel is one of your passions, the legendary Primavera Sound music festival in Barcelona, Spain, should definitely be on your radar. As one of the city's premier events, it promises an unforgettable experience with an impressive lineup over three days. Artists set to perform in 2024 include SZA, Lana Del Rey, Vampire Weekend, and many more.

Festival of Voices

Important dates: June 28–July 7

In the heart of winter in Tasmania, Australia, thousands gather for the Festival of Voices, a week filled with enchanting music. The festival showcases cabaret, contemporary, and choral performances, featuring groups from around the globe. For those eager to engage further, there are also opportunities for lessons and workshops throughout the festival.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Important dates: August 2–26

During August, the entire city of Edinburgh in Scotland transforms into a vibrant stage, where creativity thrives at every turn. Featuring a blend of free and ticketed events, the Fringe Festival offers something for everyone. Enjoy comedy acts in a dimly lit saloon, relax at a concert in the park, or catch a spoken-word performance while waiting for your bus.

Stay updated on the happenings at the Fringe Festival by picking up a paper brochure or downloading the Fringe Festival app. Since accommodations fill up quickly, it's wise to make your plans early.

Sports events

Superbowl LVIII

Key date: February 11

In 2024, the inaugural Las Vegas Superbowl – Superbowl LVIII – will take place, featuring an eagerly awaited halftime performance by Usher. Tickets are in high demand, often resold at steep prices. If you prefer to soak in the atmosphere without attending the game, join the pre- and post-game festivities at the Mandalay Bay South Convention Center, where you'll find activities, star player appearances, food, and NFL memorabilia.

Summer Olympic Games 2024, Paris

Key dates: July 26–August 11

In 2024, the Olympic Games will take place in Paris, France, marking a year of athletic excellence. Instead of a traditional opening ceremony at the Olympic Stadium, athletes will be paraded down the River Seine on boats representing their nations. This innovative format allows everyone to enjoy the spectacle for free, although views may be somewhat limited.

Africa Cup of Nations soccer tournament

Key Dates: January 13–February 11

Since its beginnings, the Africa Cup of Nations has evolved into an exhilarating, month-long event. Originally a competition among a handful of nations, it has now expanded to feature 24 teams. This year's tournament will be hosted across five cities in Côte d'Ivoire. Will Senegal defend its championship title?

Although scheduled for 2024, the tournament will still be known as the African Cup of Nations 2023 due to delays caused by tropical rainstorms in Côte d'Ivoire.

Exhibitions and museum openings

Biennale Arte 2024 – 60th International Art Exhibition

Key dates: April 20–November 24

The Biennale Arte in Venice, Italy, offers a remarkable showcase of global art. This extensive exhibition occurs every two years and merits several days of exploration. The central exhibition for 2024, titled Foreigners Everywhere, will be curated by Adriano Pedrosa, marking the first time a Latin American artist takes on this role. Artworks will be on display from April 20 to November 24, 2024.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County New Commons

Key date: Opening date in 2024 yet to be announced

In 2024, the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles will unveil a new wing aimed at enhancing visitor engagement. The Natural History Museum Commons will serve as a hub for exploring the intersections of science, culture, history, and community. This new area will feature an outdoor amphitheater, an indoor theater, and event spaces, offering a variety of activities designed to educate about the history and science of Los Angeles while ensuring a fun experience. Stay tuned to the museum's website for the official opening date.

Pan African Heritage Museum

Key date: December 2024

Set to open in December 2024, the Pan African Heritage Museum in Accra, Ghana, will be the first institution dedicated to exploring Africa's origins and civilizations. Aiming to serve as an educational resource, it invites Africans and those of African descent to delve deeply into the history and cultures of their forebears. In the meantime, visitors can discover exhibits in its virtual museum.

Stonewall National Monument Visitors Center, NYC

Key date: June 2024

In 2024, during Pride Month, the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center will open its doors in New York City, offering a deeper exploration of the Stonewall Rebellion's history. Featuring artwork from LGBTIQ+ artists, guided tours, exhibitions, and lectures, the center aims to celebrate and honor the rich legacy of the LGBTIQ+ community.

Seoul Robot and AI Museum

Key date: Mid-2024

As AI becomes increasingly integral to our lives, the Robot and AI Museum (RAIM) in Seoul, South Korea, is designed to educate visitors about AI technology through its creative and interactive displays. Expect to leave with a better understanding of this field. The museum, constructed with the assistance of robots and drones, will also be operated and maintained by them. RAIM is set to open in mid-2024, so check their website for updates.

Nature trips

Experience a total solar eclipse

Key date: April 8

If witnessing a total solar eclipse is on your bucket list, 2024 is your year. With a path crossing Canada, the US, and Mexico, millions will be ready for the spectacle. For the best view—and a beach getaway—head to Mazatlán in Mexico. Here, the eclipse will last 4 minutes and 15 seconds, achieving nearly 100% totality, making it one of the premier locations worldwide to experience this event.

The solar eclipse is set for April 8, with the duration of totality differing by location. NASA emphasizes: “Safety is paramount when observing a total solar eclipse. Be sure to understand when to use special eye protection designed for solar viewing.”

Journey along the Karakoram Highway

Key dates: April–October

Pakistan is featured in Best in Travel 2024, boasting diverse mountainous landscapes that create some of the world's most incredible road trips, including the famous Karakoram Highway. The ideal time to explore this route is from April to October, covering around 112 miles from Gilgit-Sost in approximately four days. Along the way, enjoy hiking, sailing on the stunning blue waters of Attabad Lake, and breathtaking views of the majestic Karakoram Mountain Range.

Hit the slopes in Hokkaidō

Key dates: Optimal snow conditions in January and February

As Japan's top skiing destination, Hokkaidō transforms into a winter sports paradise with its renowned powder snow. For the best skiing experiences, January and February are favored months to visit, although many ski resorts remain open into spring. Additionally, you can join the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, featuring intricate snow sculptures, local delicacies, snow slides, and a celebration of winter's magic.

Explore the Baltic Trails by foot

Key dates: Summer (in the northern hemisphere)

For those who love hiking without the challenge of steep ascents, the Baltic Trails featured in this year's Best in Travel could be perfect for you. These two extensive trails span approximately 2000 miles (3219 km) across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, showcasing national parks, charming villages, and cultural heritage sites. The terrain is relatively flat, offering enchanting views of forests, beautiful coastlines, and ancient bogs, making for a captivating journey. Depending on your route, completing the hike can take anywhere from 70 to 110 days. Summer hiking is recommended to avoid the chill of freezing temperatures.