Pack your bags! We’re going on a cross-country tour to explore some of the most FOMO-inducing happenings in 2024. This year promises epic events and occasions in New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. I chatted with our destination pros in these locales to get their most inspired ideas. Buckle in because each city is packed with can’t-miss goodness.
Getting a Taste of the Big Apple
If your group is craving a sweet experience, New York is always ripe with unique opportunities. Michaela Foley, CMP, CITP, our 360DG Director of Sales, New York, helped me handpick two upcoming events and pair them with fun activities.
- The Mermaid Parade, June 22nd – Think mermaids are a myth? Then you’ve never been to the Coney Island Mermaid Parade! Since 1983, New Yorkers have been gathering for the nation’s largest art parade featuring, you guessed it, hundreds of merfolk. Keep the celebration swimming along and follow up the festivities with a seaworthy mermaid-themed event at a nearby Brooklyn venue.
- The Feast of San Gennaro, September 14 - September 24 – Come hungry, because this feast is a BEAST! For nearly 100 years, this 11-day, 11-block party has been an essential part of NYC Italian culture. The feast days are packed with parades, music, performances, and lots of delicious food. Give your attendees a truly authentic experience with a traditional pasta-making class in the heart of Little Italy.
Soaring into the Windy City
This year, Chicago has a lot on the calendar, and we’re not just blowing hot air. Jennifer Brock, Director of Sales, Chicago, and I have pulled together the following ways to make the most of your group’s time in Chitown this year
- National Restaurant Association Show, May 18–21 – Once spring has officially sprung, the gourmets will descend on the city. The annual Restaurant Association Show brings industry professionals worldwide to celebrate innovation and excellence. We can arrange a tour of Chicago's Farmers’ Markets to feed your group’s passion for local flavors and fare. The bounty of the season is sure to inspire!
- American Bar Association Annual Meeting & Expo, July 31st–August 6th – The jury is in: this year’s ABA annual meeting and expo will be big. To fuel your attendee’s passion for defending liberty and pursuing justice, we can help you plan a progressive dine-around experience throughout the city. Thrill your team with a tour through Chicago's culinary culture and history.
Striking Gold in the Golden Gate City
It’s time to wrap up our coast-to-coast tour with a destination always rich with opportunities to come together. Emilie Lynch, Director of Sales, Northern California, and I took a look at the calendar and crafted three program ideas your team is sure to treasure.
- Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, June 9 – Do you have what it takes to escape from Alcatraz? Each year, hundreds travel to San Francisco to make the attempt by swimming from Alcatraz Island to the shores of the St. Francis Yacht Club, biking over 8 miles, and then running the trails of the Golden Gate Recreational Area. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind team building experience with a mini version of the event, it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of our city, waterfront, and green spaces.
- Stern Grove Festival, Summer – This year’s festival dates haven’t been set yet, but it’s such a local favorite that we’d be remiss not to list it. We’ll arrange transportation to the park and power your dance moves with a picnic lunch.
- Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks, December 7 – Kick off the holiday celebrations and get into the spirit of the season. Cozy up with a holiday tea party featuring festive activities and décor. Then, bundle up and head over to see the flotilla of lighted boats take to the water, followed by a fantastic fireworks display. While most arrive early to line the shores, VIP and indoor viewing areas can be arranged to let your attendees “ooh and ahh” in comfort.
Well, our tri-city US tour has come to an end, but the 2024 planning season has just begun. If something here inspires you and your crew, I’d love to hear about it. Send me or any member of our team listed here a message with your destination dreams, and we’ll make them a reality.
This article first appeared on Trevor's LinkedIn page.
