Following recent research from Aer Lingus, it is predicted that over one third of Irish travellers plan to tick a destination event off their bucket lists.
In contrast to the relaxing escapes Irish travellers add to their bucket lists, research is now showing that travellers are seeking for ‘endorfans’ with marathons, concerts and sports games being at the top of their lists this year.
Runcations
One of the top growing trends is a ‘runcation’ – an overseas trip which incorporates a running event. Each year, hundreds of Irish runners travel with Aer Lingus to the ‘Big Five’ marathon events at Berlin, London, Boston, Chicago and New York. However, lesser-known events like Hartford Marathon, taking place in October in scenic Connecticut, and the Jack & Jill Downhill Marathon, taking place just outside Seattle, are gaining momentum with international travellers.
Stagecations
Concert tourism continues into 2026, with music fans flocking to see their favourite stars in concert overseas. The ABBA Voyage event has boosted stagecation travel to London, while fans of K-Pop superstars BTS are flocking to see the band’s comeback tour in cities like Toronto, Paris and Chicago. Meanwhile, the bright lights of Las Vegas continue to attract music fans to see residencies – with Jennifer Lopez, the Eagles, Mary J. Blige, No Doubt and the Backstreet Boys among the top acts taking to the stage in Neon City’s top venues.
Endorfans
Sports lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying a sporting spectacle this year. Fans of winter games can see the very best of action just a hop away in Milan, while football followers have a big year ahead as the action kicks off in North America. Aer Lingus flies directly to Indianapolis, where fans can enjoy all the action at the Indy 500. From May, the airline will also commence a new route to Pittsburgh, where action awaits at Acrisure Stadium – home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Aer Lingus is an airline partner to the Pittsburgh Steelers, whose Irish fanbase has grown following the team’s historic game at Croke Park last September.
