From Kruger National Park to Route 66, Iconic destinations mark major milestones with special celebrations in 2026. This will give travellers a reason to revisit iconic places or discover them through safaris, classic road trips and city-defining icons.
Kruger National Park celebrates its 100-year anniversary, South Africa
South Africa’s legendary Kruger National Park marks 100 years since its official proclamation, celebrated with special conservation events and limited-edition heritage safaris. Kruger offers some of the most accessible Big Five viewing on the continent.
Gateway to the West marks three iconic milestones, St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis marks 100 years of Route 66, celebrating its role as the eastern gateway to the Mother Road with classic Americana and road-trip culture. The city also marks the 60th anniversary of the Gateway Arch, inviting visitors to enjoy its iconic design and panoramic views.
Blue Jays Turn 50, Toronto
Toronto Blue Jays are one of the world’s only MLB teams located outside of the United States. They take to the field in baby blue at the Rogers Center that sits underneath the iconic CN Tower. Visitors can attend games alongside the team’s loyal local fanbase from April to October.
10th anniversary of Las Fallas being designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Valencia
Las Fallas received this recognition in November 2016. The festivity is held annually in March and dates back to the 18th century when carpenters would burn pieces of wood once used to support their winter lighting.
59th Carnegie International, Pittsburgh (May 2026 – January 2027)
59th Carnegie International is the longest-running exhibition of international art in North America, organised every four years by Carnegie Museum of Art. This year’s highly anticipated edition brings together new commissions, existing works, and site-specific installations that transform both the museum and the city itself into a playground for global creativity.
Montenegro celebrates 20 years of Independence (21 May)
Experience Montenegro’s history celebrating the 2006 referendum that restored the nation’s sovereignty. The capital city, Podgorica, becomes the epicentre of the celebrations, adorned with national flags and decorations. The day starts with a formal ceremony attended by government officials, diplomats, and citizens, followed by cultural performances, concerts, and art exhibitions. =
City of Sonora in Tuolumne County turns 175, California (May 2026)
Lined with historic buildings preserved from the Gold Rush era, the tiny town of Sonora offers travellers the opportunity to step back in time and enjoy a slow mountain lifestyle. Beyond the Fire Museum, Opera Hall, saloons and the iconic Red Church, visitors can embark on a gentle, scenic hike along the Gragoon Gulch Trail or take a day trip to Pinecrest Lake for boating, fishing, swimming and forest hiking.
Providence Park at 100, Portland
One of the most historic and storied stadiums in the USA turns 100 years old this year. The most visible city-wide celebration will be on the pitch as the Portland Timbers soccer team announce their 2026 Away Kit dedicated entirely to the anniversary of the park.
60 years of skiing at Whistler, Canada
Whistler Mountain will mark 60 years of lift operations during the 2025/26 winter season, celebrating six decades since lift-served skiing and snowboarding first began on the mountain. The anniversary forms part of a wider period of milestones for the resort, including 45 years of Blackcomb Mountain, 50 years of the Resort Municipality of Whistler, and Whistler Village turning 50 in August, making it a standout year of celebration throughout the destination.
The Centennial State turns 150 in 2026, Colorado
In 2026, the U.S. turns 250, and Colorado marks 150 years of statehood – named the Centennial State as it was founded on the United States’ 100th birthday in 1876. To celebrate, the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission has launched “The View From Here”, a statewide campaign inviting everyone to explore its rich history and iconic landscapes. From wild west ranches to world-class ski slopes, it’s the perfect time to experience the best of Colorado.
Where rock ’n’ roll began: 90 years of the Overton Park Shell, Memphis, Tennessee
Celebrating its 90th anniversary, the historic Overton Park Shell reaffirms its status as one of Memphis’s most important music landmarks. It was here in 1954 that Elvis Presley played his first paid concert, helping spark the global rock ’n’ roll movement. The stage has since hosted legends including B.B. King, Johnny Cash and Aretha Franklin.
Celebrate Marilyn Monroe’s 100th Birthday in West Hollywood
Mark Marilyn Monroe’s centenary in West Hollywood, where classic Hollywood glamour meets vibrant culture. Step into her world with the Marilyn Monroe Immersive Experience, a multi-sensory journey through her life and iconic style. Explore the Sunset Strip and Melrose Avenue with boutiques, galleries, and retro signage evoking her timeless style. Enjoy special film screenings and Monroe-themed events, then dine at celebrated restaurants or sip cocktails at stylish rooftop bars.
