Why do we travel?

Growing up in Florida, many of our public schools incorporated a language into our daily schedule, and it was in the third grade that it started to click for me that it was much more than vocab words we were learning, but the first peek into another culture that was so different from ours. Spaniards got to take naps during the day! And eat churros! And how cool what we call soccer, they call football! For a third grader, these were major highlights that got me fascinated with Spanish culture.

After getting hooked through grade school, I minored in the language and was able to spend my junior spring of college studying abroad in Madrid and completing the program there, while living with a host family. While there was the occasional language barrier, like the time I mixed up ‘couch’ and ‘knights’ when my host mom asked me what my college mascot was, I loved getting to see the city from the local’s perspective. With weekends free, my classmates and I traveled throughout Europe and while it wasn’t always glamorous (hello hostels) we learned more from the people we met along the way than we did in the classroom.

My passion for travel is easy to fulfill by living in New York, with the convenience of having international airports within reach, often leading to great flight deals. It was not uncommon to book a trip on a moment’s notice. Process: see a great flight deal – $300 to Iceland! $250 to Barcelona! – quickly text a few friends and go from sitting on the couch to booking trip in 15 minutes. (Good thing those PTO requests always got approved!).  To consider the world our playground was a blessing we never truly stopped to appreciate it until COVID-19 hit, and we suddenly couldn’t travel freely.

Besides the rush of adrenaline I’d feel from snagging a great deal, why do we travel? Sure, in recent years there’s people that only ‘do it for the gram,’ but we all know it’s much deeper than that. We travel to meet new people, try different foods, see art. We travel to see if it can’t really be all that hard to drive a car with the steering wheel on the right side (spoiler: definitely a bit trickier than it seems.) We travel as a way to bond with our friends, family and partners and create experiences and memories that can change the way we see the world. To escape the bubble we live in and take a look into the ways others eat, play, drink, live and dream.

When the pandemic started to feel real, I was traveling in Scottsdale, Arizona for a bachelorette party when the NBA paused the season due to the virus and Major League Baseball shutdown spring training. We started hearing rumblings of not being allowed to fly back to New York and even spent a few minutes playing out the possibilities if our flights were cancelled. Thankfully we were able to fly home, but it was the first time I stepped on a plane and suddenly felt scared. We wiped down our seats and the airline did their best to space us out but there was a lingering of uncertainty that didn’t go away for the duration of the flight.

Returning to New York felt eerie. People in Arizona were visiting bars and swimming in public pools and suddenly I’m elbowing people for toilet paper and stocking up soups from Duane Reade. On March 13 we were told we wouldn’t be back in the office for an undisclosed time, and it’s crazy to think of how the world’s changed over the last four months.

Not only was leisure travel now on hold, but my job focuses on travel – what would happen to the tourism industry? After we all took a few days to catch our breath, we set into action. Virtual experiences, live streaming web cameras, video conferencing backgrounds – we started brainstorming ways that we could bring the destinations to consumers who were suddenly bound to their home.

New Jersey transported people to the iconic Jersey shore with a compilation of beach cams and created a Spotify list of greatest hits from some of the state’s best talent. Alexandria, Virginia brought visitors the overly cute “Lamb Cam” at Mount Vernon and live streaming of workout classes. Nassau Paradise Island even launched an app for TVs and smartphones that featured six different calming beaches you could play.

As the stay-at-home orders continued, businesses started getting more creative. Wineries from around the world, including Sonoma County, launched virtual wine tastings – allowing customers a personalized experience to engage with some of their favorite brands. Destinations launched cooking classes, quilting lessons and musicians started teaching guitar through services like Zoom. We all suddenly found ways to connect with the places we loved from our kitchens and couches.

Being confined to my apartment helped me slow down. Suddenly, it wasn’t about all far-off places I could go but about exploring where I lived. Slowing down meant taking previously unexplored walking paths, learning to cook new recipes and overall appreciating the small beauty when we could find it, like a clear spring day or the sun setting over New Jersey.

With many international borders closed to Americans, many are predicting a surge in staycations and road-trips this summer. Data has shown travelers are still hesitant to board a flight for a vacation but are open to driving themselves to a destination in their own car or even an RV. DMO’s and CVB’s, short on marketing budgets, are also going after the local market with a new lens, encouraging locals to play tourist for a day in their own city and visit restaurants, bars and shops to help reinvigorate tourism.

I’m looking forward to discovering the hidden gems throughout New York City and the surrounding state that may have never been on my radar. New travel goals for this summer include finding the best soft serve vanilla ice cream cone in the tri-state and visiting a u-pick farm for the first time.

We travel to learn and educate ourselves about the way others live but when travel went away many of us learned new ways to do it. Special places are all around us and I think I’m not alone in learning it doesn’t always take a plane ticket to have a great adventure and a way to build incredible memories.

While we wait for the world to reopen to travel and dream of the once-in-a-lifetime trips to places like Peru or Thailand, it’s a good reminder that sometimes an ice cream cone with people you love can also be the perfect setting to create a lasting memory.

from Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/06/25/why-do-we-travel/
via https://louhammond.com

Our Founder Lou Hammond Provides Travel Insights for Forbes

Our Founder Lou Hammond recently provided insights regarding the future of travel to Tamara Thiessen for Forbes. Read a snippet of the article below with her thoughts:

In the post-Coronavirus travel world, most Americans will holiday at home, and travel by car. The combined effect of ongoing international travel bans, easing but not over lockdowns, and the desire to stick close to home (now we’ve all grown so used to them!) will fuel that trend experts say. 

Lou Hammond, founder of the tourism and hospitality agency of her name, tips regional and domestic U.S. travel to thrive in 2020 as a result. As soon as people get the go-ahead, they’ll be off she says. “Vacation is considered a right, perhaps more this summer than ever. However, travel planning must be easy and not too far from home.”

The predictions are backed by a Skift survey, showing 40% of Americans say their first post-COVID trip will be by car, within 100 miles of home. 26% will go over the 100 mile mark, but stick to the U.S., and to cars. Only 16% will take a flight; 8% plan to leave the U.S. Treasury Secretary, Steven Mnuchin, is fueling the travel local trend, encouraging Americans to focus on domestic vacations this year as the outlook for international trips looks dim. 

Travel will be tricky, with all the health protocols in place. So the closer people can stay in their own little secure travel world the better. Which is why Lou Hammond believes cars will be the chosen transportation for most. “The key will be getting out and about, with little planning and without fuss. The family summer road trip may very well return as an important recovery factor. Why? Because the whole family can go, gasoline is plentiful and it seems patriotic to see the USA.”

Smart marketers should plan now for family vacations for all ages, she says, offering “the true American experience.” “This presents opportunities to visit smaller cities with colorful history and culture: Alexandria and Norfolk in Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; Montgomery, Alabama; Natchez, Mississippi; Paducah, Kentucky.”

For those craving a little European influence, Hammond suggests Santa Fe, New Mexico; Santa Barbara, California; or Providence, Rhode Island. She hopes local travel will prove an economic savior. “Perhaps driving vacationers will be surprised how much America offers and come away with a new appreciation lending support to our needed recovery.” 

 

Read the full Forbes article here.

from Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/05/08/our-founder-lou-hammond-provides-travel-insights-for-forbes/
via https://louhammond.com

Our Founder Lou Hammond Provides Travel Insights for The Points Guy

Our Founder Lou Hammond recently provided insights regarding the future of travel to Laura Motta for The Points Guy. See her commentary below

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself, your organization and why you love to travel.

A: LHG was founded 36 years ago and we have served the travel community in many capacities over the years. Travel is an indispensable part of our lives and we recognize that, beyond the joy one feels, travel bonds us globally like no other business. It gives us an understanding of the world and cultures that brings us together in the most meaningful way.

Q: When will we be able to travel regionally, domestically and internationally?

A: If I were to know that I would be King Solomon and always win in Vegas. While slowly we are starting to see a “leveling off,” what that really means no one knows. As soon as the green light shines, certainly regional and domestic USA travel will flourish particularly with transportation by car. I remember thinking in the “old days” the drive market was one or two tanks and we should promote appropriately. Today, let’s look at five+ and find a way to introduce multi-destination stops for an enjoyable vacation. Airlines, we just don’t know but always remain hopeful. On the international front, it will take time and that makes me sad for our global partners. However, there will be “pent up” interest and it might happen sooner than we think. Realistically I think the fall but hopefully it can be sooner.

Q: Where are you based?

A: We have offices all over the country but at the moment I’m in Charleston, South Carolina.

Q: Where do you personally plan to go, in each of those categories, for your first trip?

A: We are very fortunate as the South has many small towns to explore in an easy fashion. Speaking of “easy,” that will be key to getting people out and about so planning can be immediate without fuss. Growing up in Texas there was always the family summer “road trip” and this may very well return as an important recovery factor. I suggest smart marketers will plan now for the family vacation to include all ages.

Q: What do you think will change about the way we vacation? (besides staying away from large crowds)?

A: Bottom line, we will be a changed nation seeking perhaps different core values. What that means to travel, I do believe there will be more courtesy, appreciation and that America will be the vacation playground for the immediate future. Value will continue to play an important role abiding by a phrase I coined many years ago, Easy to Go, Easy to book and Easy on the Pocketbook! With people returning to work and offices, they will have little time to plan, so I recommend let’s start organizing now for their upcoming travel. At the end of the day, for sure travel has taken a big “hit” but Americans know they deserve a vacation and my money says they will GO and we will all be pleasantly surprised. Yes, I am counting on that.

Read the full article from The Points Guy here.

from Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/04/29/our-founder-lou-hammond-provides-travel-insights-for-the-points-guy/
via https://louhammond.com

Zoom in Style

Branded Zoom Backgrounds

The virtual background feature allows users to display an image or video as their background during a Zoom Meeting. Users can also upload their own images or videos as a virtual background. There are no size restrictions when uploading a virtual background but Zoom recommends cropping the image to match the aspect ratio of your camera before uploading it.

Example: If your camera is set to 16:9, an image of 1280 pixels by 720 px or 1920 pixels by 1080 pixels would work well.

Clients can push out images via their social media channels that they would like users to display on their personal virtual calls or meetings. Clients can also set up a ‘virtual party’ instructing their followers to join a video conference with them, using a particular image as the background.

Example Background

How to Upload

1. Sign into the Zoom desktop application.
2. Click your profile picture then click Settings.
3. Select Virtual Background.

• • Note: If you do not have the Virtual Background tab and you have enabled it on the web portal, sign out of the Zoom Desktop Client and sign in again.

1. Check ‘I have a green screen’ if you have a physical green screen set up (i.e. sitting behind a blank wall). You can then click on your video to select the correct color for the green screen.
2. Click on an image to select the desired virtual background or add your own image by clicking + and choosing if you want to upload an image or a video.
3. If prompted, click Download to download the package for virtual background without a green screen.

Zoom Tips

With Zoom becoming a major way that meetings and networking get done in the COVID-19 landscape, here are a few tips to make sure you put your best foot forward when you take your professional interactions online.

1. Camera Angle:Place the camera slightly above eye level for the most flattering angle. If you’re using a laptop, you may need to raise it up by putting some books underneath it—just ensure its stable and won’t move once your session begins. When it’s your turn to speak, look directly at the camera—right above the person(s) on screen. When someone else is speaking, look at them.
2. Social Distancing (on Zoom too): Position yourself a comfortable distance from the camera, approximately 3-4 feet. Avoid leaning in too closely. You can gesture as you normally would, just don’t bob around too much, which can be distracting for viewers.
3. Lighting: Avoid being backlit (no window or bright light behind you), so that you don’t look like a dark silhouette. Position yourself so that your face is evenly lit with natural light (or overhead light that’s not too harsh), if possible.
4. Audio: Remove yourself from an environment with ambient noise. Use your computer’s built-in speakers for quality and ease. If using a phone, put it on speaker, don’t hold it up to your ear—and be sure the computer mic is turned off to avoid interference. Headphones are also a great option so you can hear better. They also help reduce feedback noise from your or someone else’s computer.
5. Backdrop:Use this opportunity to say something about yourself but keep it professional. Bookshelves, artwork that’s not too distracting or a wall painted with a solid color are good backdrops to consider.
6. Relax and Smile:Get comfortable in front of the camera and let people see you are happy to be there.
7. Internet Connection:Always check your connection before joining a meeting. Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi and located near the router for the fastest connection. Keep your phone handy just in case.
8. Remove Distractions (and potentially sensitive material): On your computer, close out of all documents, email and other applications before you join the meeting. You can also place your cellphone on Do Not Disturb so the noise or vibration doesn’t distract you.
9. Fist Bumps: For meetings with colleagues, employees or other zoom users, virtual fist bumps go a long way to build unity and togetherness.

We hope you find this resourceful for your virtual meetings. Well wishes from team LHG.

from Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/04/03/zoom-in-style-branded-zoom-backgrounds/
via https://louhammond.com

Managing Social Media in the Midst of COVID-19

With COVID-19 affecting lives across the world, there’s no denying that it’s also affecting the content we’re sharing on social media as well. Brands are more aware than ever about what they’re choosing to share on their platforms to ensure sensitivity and connection. At LHG, we represent a wide variety of travel, tourism and hospitality organizations, all of whom have been impacted by COVID-19. These are the trends we’re seeing and what we’re recommending for our clients to share on social media during these unprecedented times.

Recommendations on Social Content

• Virtual Experiences – highlight things that you or your members/partners are doing virtually or in a new way at this time amidst the crisis to provide value for others (Ex: music streams with partners, wellness live experiences with partners or hotel spa directors)
• Community Updates – share relevant COVID-19 updates or happenings as it pertains to your organization and community
• Positive/Uplifting Community Stories – share what you’re doing to help the community and/or educate on volunteer opportunities and community outreach (Ex: stories of goodwill from businesses supporting nonprofits or helping healthcare workers, news articles about where/how to volunteer)
• Local Business Support – let others know how they can support you during this time, showcase those who are offering their goods online or via social media, support hotels/businesses, drive awareness for restaurants
• Hyper-Local/Nostalgic Content – remind the community of where they live or love to visit and why it’s special, giving them something to look forward to when this is over
• Live Video – engage with your audience with the help of LHG’s Facebook and Instagram Live Best Practices

Helpful Social Articles

• Social media crisis plan: What to do when things go wrong
• What to do right now: How to navigate through a global crisis on social media
• Facebook Publishes New Guides to Help Businesses Deal With the Impacts of COVID-19
• 8 Ways for Your Business to Stay Ahead During the COVID-19 Outbreak
• Showing Up in a Time of Uncertainty: What Marketers Need to Know

Even amidst this crisis, there is still an opportunity to connect and engage with your audience on social media as well as be a valuable resource for the community in a meaningful and thoughtful way.

Stay safe, all.

from Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/04/03/managing-social-media-in-the-midst-of-covid-19/
via https://louhammond.com

Reference These AP Style Rules During Global or Domestic Crises

The Associated Press (AP) Stylebook is an English grammar style and usage guide created by American journalists working for or connected with the Associated Press to standardize mass communication. Like many public-facing organizations and news outlets, Lou Hammond Group follows the AP Stylebook to promote consistency for ease of reading and a common understanding in press statements, news articles and other formal announcements.

As publicists, we see firsthand how the media climate changes to address global or domestic crises and we must always keep up with the changing story — utilizing AP Style along the way. We understand writing during uncertain circumstances may not be a part of your regular routine and potentially out of your comfort zone. To help streamline your writing, we have pulled together a few tips and rules from the Associated Press Stylebook related to disaster coverage.

Pandemic and Epidemics

• An epidemic is the rapid spreading of disease in a certain population or region; a pandemic is an epidemic that has spread worldwide.
• Use Dr. in first reference as a title before the name of an individual who holds a doctor of dental surgery, doctor of medicine, doctor of optometry, doctor of osteopathic medicine, doctor of podiatric medicine, or doctor of veterinary medicine.
• On first reference, use Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Precede with national, federal or U.S. if needed for clarity. CDC is acceptable on second reference for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
• The shorthand CDC takes a singular verb: The CDC is investigating.
• Stories should contain a mention of a disease’s official name, accompanied by an explanation. Common phrasing such as “the new virus” is acceptable on first reference.
• • For example: COVID-19 must be mentioned somewhere in an article referencing coronavirus.

Hurricane

• Capitalize the word hurricane when it’s part of a storm’s assigned name — e.g., Hurricane Dorian.
• Regardless of the hurricane’s name, use it and its, not she, her or hers or he, him or his, in pronoun references.
• Hurricanes and typhoons are tropical cyclones with a minimum sustained surface wind of 74 mph or more. Hurricanes develop east of the international date line, and typhoons originate west of the line. They are called cyclones in the Indian Ocean and in Australia. After one loses strength, often after landfall, it downgrades to tropical storm status.
• Capitalize category and use a numeral when you give a hurricane’s strength.
• • For example: A Category 5 storm made landfall Tuesday night.

Earthquakes

• Earthquakes are registered in magnitude and should be written as either a magnitude 5.9 quake or a 5.9-magnitude quake.
• You don’t need to write Richter scale or any other scale. According to the AP Stylebook, the Richter scale is no longer widely used.
• Temblor is a synonym for earthquake. Tremblor is not. Quake also is acceptable.
• The main earthquake source is the U.S. Geological Survey. Note the name.
• According to AP, “The word epicenter refers to the point on Earth’s surface above the underground center, or focus, of an earthquake.”

Tornado

• Tornado strength is measured by enhanced F-scale rating from EF0 to EF5. An EF2 or higher is considered a significant tornado.
• Tornadoes is the plural of tornado
• A tornado warning is issued by local weather service to warn of existing
• A tornado watch alerts the public to the possibility of a tornado in the next several hours.

During times of crises, the public looks to its news sources to stay up to date on the latest news. The AP Stylebook is a valuable and helpful point of reference no matter the topic.

from Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/03/16/reference-these-ap-style-rules-during-global-or-domestic-crises/
via https://louhammond.com

Roundup of LHG Client Spring Events and Updates

Pack away your winter gear and plan a spring getaway! Check out the roundup below of some of our not-to-be-missed client events this spring.

 

The Grand Opening of Kimpton Key West: Key West, FL – March 2020

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants will open their newest hotel collection in Key West, Florida this March. Kimpton Key West will be the sixth property in the Sunshine State and Kimpton’s first in the Florida Keys. The collection will be comprised of five separate hotels located in the historic district, each offering its own distinct story and stay experience, blending timeless architecture with an eclectic, bohemian style only found in Key West. For more information, visit www.ihg.com/kimptonhotels.

 

Cliffside Igloo Rentals by Cliff House Maine: Cape Neddick, ME – March 2020

Cliff House Maine and Nubb’s Lobster Shack are offering a delicious and fun seaside escape this March. Two Igloos overlooking the Maine coast are available for rent and include a deliciously curated menu. Cliffside Igloos are available for reservations from 3-5 p.m. or 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays throughout March. For more information, visit www.cliffhousemaine.com.

 

Kids Free Spring Break: Santa Fe, NM – March 1-April 15

This year, TOURISM Santa Fe and Santa Fe travel partners have joined forces for the fifth annual Kids Free Spring Break 2020 city-wide initiative. During this time, kids age 12 and under receive complimentary lodging, meals and numerous culturally immersive activities while experiencing Santa Fe’s diverse family offerings. Families and children will have various options to take advantage of, including but not limited to, off-road Jeep tours, skateboarding lessons, art classes and even museum tours. For more information, visit www.santafe.org/Spring_Break.

 

The Lanesborough x Peggy Porschen Afternoon Tea: London, England – March 3-June 2

The Lanesborough Hotel, London, is delighted to launch an exclusive new afternoon tea experience with world-famous bakery Peggy Porschen. Combining one of London’s most beautiful afternoon tea settings, under the naturally illuminated domed glass roof of Michelin-starred Céleste, with the fairy tale pink aesthetics of Peggy Porschen, guests can expect a spring-time immersion into a celebration of beautiful floral features, pastel-hues and exquisite tastes. For more information, visit www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough.

 

The Santa Barbara Culinary Experience: Santa Barbara, CA – March 13-15

The Santa Barbara Culinary Experience (SBCE) is a world-class three-day event celebrated throughout greater Santa Barbara. Immersed in the American Riviera and showcasing a taste of Santa Barbara by bringing together local and national talent in the spirit of Julia Child, the public will enjoy Santa Barbara—Julia’s final home—with its dynamic food and wine scene. In partnership with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, participating restaurants, bars and hotels across the city and waterfront will offer their inspired spin on classic Julia Child dishes, signature Julia and Paul Child cocktails, educational programming, memorable stays, tours, talks and other creative programming, all to benefit The Julia Child Foundation. For more information, visit www.sbce.events.

 

Scranton St. Patrick’s Parade: Lackawanna County, PA – March 14

Lackawanna County’s largest annual celebration, the Scranton St. Patrick’s Parade will include 12,000 participants, including Irish groups, bagpipers, high school and string bands, elaborate floats, Irish dancers and more. Since 1962 the St. Patrick’s Parade Day Association of Lackawanna County has conducted this nationally acclaimed parade the weekend before St. Patrick’s Day. “Parade Day” as it’s known locally, is one of the largest St. Patrick’s parades in the country, regularly attracting 150,000 spectators. For more information, visit www.visitnepa.org.

 

St. Barts Bucket Regatta: St. Barts – March 19-22

The world’s most spectacular superyachts will gather in St. Barts for this annual, invitational regatta. While the horizon fills with the sails of over 40 sailboats, the island will fill with fans, crews and curious spectators for a full weekend of social events concentrated in Gustavia, the island’s largest town. For more information, visit www.bucketregatta.com.

 

UNwineD: Panama City Beach, FL – March 20-21

This award-winning event will return to Aaron Bessant Park for its fourth year, featuring craft beer, spirits and wine from around the world, culinary creations by the region’s leading chefs and a Southern garden party presented by Southern Living. Guests can raise a glass at the Friday Night Kickoff Party, a time to mix and mingle with some of the South’s most elite chefs, mixologists and tastemakers. The celebration continues Saturday with the Grand Afternoon Tasting & Cocktail Competition followed by a live concert with headliner Death Cab for Cutie and indie-rock band JOYWAVE. For more information, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/unwined.

 

First and Second Round of the NCAA March Madness Tournament: Sacramento, CA – March 20 & 22

The Road to the Final Four® will stop in Sacramento at the Golden 1 Center as Sacramento State University will host the first and second rounds of the NCAA March Madness Tournament. Guests can purchase individual tickets or an all-session pass to experience all six games across the two full days. This is the first time the tournament will return to Sacramento in 13 years. For more information, visit www.golden1center.com.

 

The 25th Annual NH Maple Weekend: New Hampshire – March 21-22

From interactive tours to tastings at more than 50 sugarhouses across the state, NH Maple Weekend provides travelers with just one more reason to visit the state this spring. While sap is harvested throughout the state during Maple Month, the Granite State’s White Mountains region is a particularly robust area for syrup production and offers a variety of interactive experiences for travelers. For more information, visit www.nhmapleproducers.com/maple-month.

 

Zelda: Montgomery, AL – March 24-May 31

This exhibition at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts will feature oil paintings made by Zelda Fitzgerald in Montgomery at the end of her life and examples of her watercolor paper dolls. The works are part of the museum’s permanent collection and among those given to the museum in 1986 by Scottie Fitzgerald Smith, daughter of Zelda and F. Scott. For more information, visit www.mmfa.org.

 

Downtown Lancaster AQS QuiltWeek Show: Lancaster, PA – March 25-28

Over 15,000 quilters will be heading to downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania for the annual American Quilter’s Society QuiltWeek Show to see some of the best quilting and textile artistry that the country has to offer. In addition to there being nearly 500 quilts on display, this year’s event includes workshops by renowned instructors, contests and a Merchant Mall. The show brings creativity, passion and a new definition of quilt art to Lancaster. For more information, visit www.quiltweek.com.

 

The Superyacht Show: Palm Beach, FL – March 25-29

The Superyacht Show, in cooperation with the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss) and the Superyacht Life Foundation, will offer buyers and charterers, as well as their brokers and representatives, the opportunity to step on board some of the finest superyachts in the world. Complementing the on-water display will be a hand-picked selection of new designs and innovations presented by some of the leading international shipyards. Burgess Yachts will be in attendance and has thus far confirmed HASNA for their exclusive lineup at this inaugural show. For more information, visit www.burgessyachts.com.

 

California Artisan Cheese Festival: Santa Rosa, CA – March 27-29

This weekend long celebration will bring together a lively and friendly group of experts and presenters from the wonderful world of artisan cheese. The festival promotes a broad awareness of the artisan cheesemaking community, inviting guests to meet cheesemakers and taste their creations at the 14th Annual California Artisan Cheese Festival. Festivities include chef demos, seminars, farm tours, the Grand Tasting and the Tasting and Marketplace. Tickets range from $25 to $150. For more information, visit www.artisancheesefestival.com.

 

Cherry Blossom Jubilee: Alexandria, VA – March 28

Alexandria’s Torpedo Factory Art Center will host a satellite celebration for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Guests will enjoy a lively afternoon of hands-on activities, performances and chances to shop the art center’s works of art. The event is free. For more information, visit www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

 

Montgomery Beer Ballot: Montgomery, AL – March 28

This inaugural beer festival will feature breweries from across Alabama. Held at Montgomery Union Station, the Montgomery Beer Ballot will feature Back Forty Beer Company, Black Warrior Brewing Company, Cahaba Brewing Co and more. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/events/629499114479598/.

 

New Haven Restaurant Week: New Haven, CT – March 29-April 3

Info New Haven is proud to present New Haven Spring Restaurant Week. The event will feature many of downtown New Haven’s award-winning and internationally diverse restaurants, each featuring lunch and dinner fixed price multi-course menus. For more information, visit www.infonewhaven.com.

 

150^th Anniversary of Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc: Côte d’Azur, France – April 17

The legendary Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc will celebrate its 150th anniversary with its season reopening on April 17. Located in the heart of the Côte d’Azur, the Oetker Collection property will be honoring this momentous occasion with an exclusive gala to recount their storied history of the last century with “Les Années folles,” their partnership with the Cannes Film Festival since 1946 and more. Further, the hotel will be welcoming Chef Eric Frechon from sister property, Le Bristol Paris, as a consultant joining Executive Chef Arnaud Poette in presenting a new dimension to the culinary experience offered onsite. For more information, visit www.oetkercollection.com.

 

Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald’s 100th Marriage Anniversary Open House: Montgomery, AL – April 3

The only Fitzgerald museum in the world, housed in the former home of the literary couple, is commemorating the 100th wedding anniversary of F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald with an open house for visitors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit www.thefitzgeraldmuseum.org.

 

Angry Bear Festival: Marquette, MI – April 4

Each April, as the frozen grounds of Lake Superior’s shore attempt to  thaw, the Festival of the Angry Bear comes out of hibernation and takes over Spring Street in downtown Marquette. Modeled after some of the great beer festivals of Europe, this event is a showcase of barrel-aged beer, live music and delicious food. For more information, visit www.travelmarquettemichigan.com.

 

Bruce Munro at Brookgreen: Southern Light, Murrells Inlet, SC – April 8-September 12

Brookgreen Gardens will host internationally recognized light artist Bruce Munro for Bruce Munro at Brookgreen: Southern Light. Known for his large, immersive displays of thousands of lights, Bruce Munro continually draws people in with his dazzling displays. The exhibit at Brookgreen will consist of seven works of art in light and mixed media, each designed specifically for the natural garden spaces where they will be installed. Brookgreen’s exhibit will be the only opportunity to see Munro’s work in the southeastern United States in 2020. Tickets are $25 for non-members. For more information, visit www.brookgreen.org/bruce-munro.

 

Golden Egg Hunt: Wild Dunes Resort, Isle of Palms, SC – April 11

Kids can hunt for golden Easter eggs hidden around Wild Dunes Resort this spring. The hunt will last until all eggs are redeemed. For more information, visit www.destinationhotels.com/wild-dunes.

 

Fifth Avenue’s Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival: New York, NY – April 12

Fifth Avenue’s Easter Parade is always a spectacle as New Yorkers and visitors alike come to the avenue to show off their very best bonnets. The parade commences at 10 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m. Marching along the avenue from 49th Street to 57th Street, this New York City tradition lives on but with a twist this year. The Fifth Avenue Association will bring a red carpet to the scene for all to strut and show off their bonnets! For more information, visit www.fifthavenue.nyc.

 

Les Voiles de St. Barts Richard Mille: St. Barts – April 12-18

Five days of challenging coastal courses draw expert sailors from around the world to St. Barts. More than just a competitive regatta, Les Voiles de St. Barts Richard Mille is known for its central Race Village, where competitors gather for morning coffee and evening concerts, and the legendary mid-regatta “Day Off” crew party at Nikki Beach. Fair winds, following seas and warm hospitality make this one of the most anticipated Caribbean regattas of the year. For more information, visit www.lesvoilesdestbarthrichardmille.com.

 

Annual Earth Day Festival: Naples, FL – April 18

This April, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida will be holding its Annual Earth Day Festival. Visitors are invited to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day with live animal shows, food vendors, educational programs, games and various exhibitors throughout the Conservancy. A great opportunity for children to get out and see many different Florida species, the Earth Day Festival is the biggest community celebration of the year. For more information, visit www.conservancy.org.

 

Alabama Book Festival: Montgomery, AL – April 18

The Alabama Book Festival is an annual event to promote literacy around the state and celebrate local authors. Hundreds of people will gather in Old Alabama Town for author readings, book signings, writing workshops and more. For more information, visit www.alabamabookfestival.org.

 

Beyond the Horizon Air and Space Show: Montgomery, AL – April 18-19

Big planes, small planes, twisty twirly planes, planes with sharp teeth, planes that leave colorful designs in the clouds and the well-known Thunderbirds are all coming to Montgomery’s Maxwell Air Force Base. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the static displays up close, watch these giant metal birds fly through the sky, learn about “Made in Alabama” aviation technology and more. For more information, visit www.MaxwellAirShow.com.

 

Kool April Nites: Redding, CA – April 18-26

Kool April Nites is one of Redding’s most anticipated annual events celebrating local businesses and Redding’s history through a classic-car show, food, drink and music. The week kicks off with Show and Shines throughout the city leading up to Friday’s Cruise Nite, followed by more shows throughout the weekend. Cruise Nite begins at 6:30 p.m. with a spectacular parade of cars from all eras. The grand finale of Kool April Nites is Sunday’s “Big Show.” The day begins with an opening ceremony, followed by an opportunity to sell or buy classic cars and an awards presentation. Kool April Nites events are all free and open to the public.  For more information, visit www.koolaprilnites.com.

 

Kentucky Derby Festival: Louisville, KY – April 18-May 2

The most-exciting two minutes in sports is celebrated for a full month leading up to the starting gate. Festivities officially kick off with Thunder over Louisville, one of the nation’s top firework shows, and the rest of April is packed with can’t-miss events such as the BB&T Great Balloon Fest, the PNC Tour de Lou bike race, the Great Steamboat Race and the Pegasus Parade. The Kentucky Derby Festival includes both free and ticketed events. For more information, visit www.kdf.org.

 

New Haven Cherry Blossom Festival: New Haven, CT – April 19

Now in its 47th year, this event celebrates the annual blooming of Wooster Square’s Cherry Yoshino Japanese Cherry Blossom. The festival will feature live music, great food and activities for all ages. The first festival was held in 1973 to commemorate the planting of the trees and has grown over the years, drawing over 10,000 visitors annually. For more information, visit www.historicwoostersquare.org.

 

AQS Spring QuiltWeek Show Paducah: Paducah, KY – April 22-25

The American Quilter’s Society’s Spring QuiltWeek will return to Paducah for the 36th year. Over 400 quilters will be competing for $126,000 in cash awards. Special exhibitions on display include AQS 2020 Focus on Flowers, The Stonehenge Traveling Quilt Show, Silk Route: Claudia Pfeil’s Journey in Silk Quilts and The Bob Ross Cherrywood Challenge. Also during QuiltWeek the second Paducah quilt mural, depicting Melinda Bula’s quilt “…And the Flag Was Still There,” will be revealed on the flood wall by the Carroll Convention Center. For more information, visit www.quiltweek.com.

 

Seabreeze Jazz Festival: Panama City Beach, FL – April 22-26

Named a “Top 10 Jazz Festival in the USA” by JazzIZ Magazine and nominated as “Best Jazz Festival” at the Oasis Smooth Jazz Awards, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival combines top national smooth jazz artists for a full weekend of fun, sun, great beaches and good times. The 22nd annual event is held in the Pier Park Amphitheater, featuring internationally known acts as well as local performers. For more information, visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com.

 

Dinner on Dexter: Montgomery, AL – April 23

Enjoy an evening of music, food and entertainment on Montgomery’s historic Dexter Avenue, to support the Montgomery City-County Public Library. The evening kicks off with a cocktail hour, music and delectable hors d’oeuvres, followed by a special multi-course meal prepared by top local chefs. For more information, visit www.dinnerondexter.com.

 

SandJam Music Festival: Panama City Beach, FL – April 24-26

Panama City Beach’s third annual alternative rock music festival will be set on the beautiful sugar white sand beaches of Panama City Beach, providing a picturesque backdrop for this spring’s biggest festival. Music lovers of all ages are invited to make long lasting memories at SandJam Music Festival, presented by Pepsi. For more information and this year’s full lineup, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/events.

 

Rock to Rock 2020: New Haven, CT – April 25

Rock to Rock is New Haven’s biggest Earth Day celebration, allowing participants to explore the Elm City on bike while raising money for the planet. A thousand riders will travel from West Rock and East Rock, with celebrations on both sides of the city plus great food and music along the way. For more information, visit www.rocktorock.donordrive.com.

 

Spring Gala: This Side of Paradise: Montgomery, AL – April 25

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the publication of “This Side of Paradise,” F. Scott Fitzgerald’s first novel, The Fitzgerald Museum is hosting the 31st Spring Gala. General tickets and sponsorship packages are both available for this celebratory event. For more information, visit www.thefitzgeraldmuseum.org.

 

 

Watches & Wonders: Geneva, Switzerland – April 25-29

Commonly referred to as the watchmaking capital of the world, Geneva will host the 30th edition of Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), the trade show for top journalists and collectors in the watch industry. Watches & Wonders will consist of two parts, the “Salon” and “In the City.” The exclusive “Salon” is the place for professionals, media and special guests of the exhibiting maisons to delve into workshops and panel discussions while “In the City” transforms the center of Geneva into a week-long discovery of activations in watchmaking boutiques and private venues – The Patek Philippe Museum being one of them. Between shows and activations, visitors can take a boat cruise around the lake for lunch or wander Rue du Rhone and its many luxury shops. For more information, visit www.geneve.com.

 

St. Barts Film Festival: St. Barts – April 28-May 3

The 24th annual St. Barts Film Festival showcases the astounding talent of the area with screenings, debates, lectures and meet-and-greets with notable producers, actors and directors. For more information, please visit: www.stbarthff.org.

 

Thunder Beach Spring Motorcycle Rally: Panama City Beach, FL – April 29-May 3

The most biker-friendly rally in the country, Thunder Beach Spring Motorcycle Rally will feature 200 vendors and exhibitors, a bike parade, beauty pageants, poker runs, live music, motorcycle stunt shows, tattoo contests, bike shows with category judging and much more. Events will take place at multiple venues throughout the Panama City Beach area. For more information, visit www.thunderbeachproductions.com.

 

The Virginia International Tattoo: Norfolk, VA – April 30-May 3

The largest spectacle of music and might in the country, the Virginia International Tattoo offers an astounding display of inspirational military music, majestic massed pipes and drums, show stopping drill team maneuvers, colorful and elegant dancers and much more. This year’s theme is “Stories of the Greatest Generation: 75 Years Since the End of World War II.” This year’s lineup features performances from Australia, Canada, Latvia, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States. Tickets start at $10. For more information, visit www.vafest.org/tattoo.

 

Fifth Avenue Blooms!: New York, NY – May 1-16

Fifth Avenue Association will entice visitors and draw crowds with the creation of a public, site-specific, large-scale flower installations along Fifth Avenue this May. In collaboration with floral designers and talent such as the globally celebrated Preston Bailey, the association will offer an immersive backdrop that will become the season’s “must see” public art installation. For more information, visit www.fifthavenue.nyc.

 

EatDrinkRI: Providence, RI – May 6-9

Showcasing the best of the ever-expanding Rhode Island culinary scene, the Eat Drink RI Festival is a four-day, all-local food festival held throughout downtown Providence. The festival showcases the best of the culinary world in Rhode Island, presenting farmers, chefs, bartenders and food and drink artisans from across the state. For more information, visit www.eatdrinkri.com.

 

Emotional Fitness Retreat at Red Mountain Resort: St. George, UT – May 6-10

Red Mountain Resort, a premier adventure and wellness destination in southern Utah, is hosting a special Emotional Fitness Retreat led by energy healing expert Andrea Becky Hanson. This five-day, four-night retreat encourages guests to resolve their deepest emotional blocks through private and group healing workshops, a fire ceremony, outdoor journaling, yoga and meditation and more. Guests will leave with a newfound understanding of their life’s purpose, their heart’s deepest desires and strategies to live a more compassionate, confident lifestyle. Retreat pricing starts at $2,325 per person. For more information, visit www.redmountainresort.com.

 

International Bar-B-Q Festival: Owensboro, KY – May 8-9

The world’s foremost pitmasters turn out for the International Bar-B-Q Festival, now in its 42nd year. Visitors and local alike attend the festival to enjoy four stages of live music, all the BBQ one can eat and the exhilarating team competition for the ‘best secret recipes.’ The winner is awarded the Governor’s Cup for best overall Bar-B-Q cooking team. Festival attendees can enjoy free entertainment while sampling burgoo and bar-b-q sandwiches before buying their favorite mutton, pork and chicken by the pound. For more information, visit www.bbqfest.com.

 

Visit Panama City Beach 70.3 Gulf Coast: Panama City Beach, FL – May 9

What began as a challenge between groups of Navy SEALS has become one of the most recognized endurance events in the world. IRONMAN is a statement of excellence, passion and commitment that is a true test of mental and physical toughness. Panama City Beach has proven to have the best combination of temperature and terrain for this competition, making the Florida edition of the challenge one of the most popular races on the circuit. For more information, visit www.ironman.com.

 

Florida Beach Jam: Panama City Beach, FL – May 13-16

Thousands of jeep owners and enthusiasts will gather in Panama City Beach for the fifth annual Jeep Beach Jam. This five-day family event, organized by the JBJ Productions, Inc. team will be filled with many fun-in-the-sun activities including concerts, scavenger hunts, off-road excursions, bonfires and more. Events will take place at many locations throughout the city. For more information, visit www.floridajeepjam.com.

 

Lower Town Arts & Music Festival: Paducah, KY – May 15-16

The Lower Town Arts & Music Festival is a two-day celebration of art, music, food, beer and wine from Paducah and the surrounding region. The event will also feature acclaimed headlining musical acts, to be announced. The growing festival takes place in the historic Lower Town Arts District close to downtown Paducah. This event is fun for all ages. The event is free. For more information, visit lowertownamf.com.

 

Fred Wilson: Afro Kismet at The Gibbes Museum of Art: Charleston, SC – May 15-October 4

Fred Wilson: Afro Kismet, will be on display at the Gibbes Museum of Art in partnership with Spoleto Festival, USA, and features the internationally acclaimed artist’s most recent body of work originally produced for the 15th Istanbul Biennial. Fred Wilson challenges assumptions of history, culture, race and conventions of display. By reframing objects and cultural symbols, he alters traditional interpretations, encouraging viewers to reconsider social and historical narratives. In Afro Kismet, Wilson investigates the long-ignored presence of communities of African descent from the time of the Ottoman Empire to the Republic of Turkey. Tickets are $12 for non-members. For more information, visit www.gibbesmuseum.org.

 

Caves Ouvertes: Geneva, Switzerland – May 16

On Open Cellar Day, vineyards and estates alike open their doors to have their wines sampled by the public. This special opportunity to explore Geneva’s vineyards and regional wines only comes once a year. Guests will also enjoy the live music and soak up the atmosphere of the beautiful rolling hills just above Lake Geneva. This event is free. For more information, visit www.geneve.com.

 

American River BBQ Challenge Cruise on the American Countess – May 24-31

American Queen Steamboat Company, an industry leader in American river cruises, will elevate its programming with brand new special interest sailings in 2020. On board the brand new steamboat paddlewheeler American Countess, the best of the best in the barbeque business will create unique experiences in each port between Memphis, Tenn. And Alton (St. Louis), Ill. Guests will indulge in each authentic, local culinary craft, and then rate each contestant – including the AQSC culinary team. At the conclusion of each journey, the winner will be announced, as chosen by guests. For more information, visit www.americanqueensteamboatcompany.com.

 

Styleweek Northeast: Providence, RI – May 27-30

Some of the hottest designers and names in fashion will come together for the 10th anniversary season of Styleweek Northeast. This event has quickly turned into one of the Northeast’s premiere fashion weeks showcasing emerging designers and connecting them with the community, buyers and press, while providing a professional trade setting. For more information, visit www.styleweeknortheast.com.

 

The Grand Opening of The Margaritaville Beach Resort: Nassau Paradise Island – June 2020

The Margaritaville Beach Resort is coming to The Pointe in Nassau. Amongst its seven-acre establishment, this new and highly anticipated 284 room resort will feature an open-air shopping concourse, a movie theater, bowling alley, cascading water pool, a spa and private beach. There will be 11 food and beverage outlets, ranging from casual, toes-in-the-sand spots, to fine dining. Live entertainment will play a prominent role throughout the resort and they will also have thousands of feet of meeting space, as well as a large ballroom. The resort is located just 20 minutes from the airport and within walking distance of downtown Nassau, home to many bars, restaurants and much more. For more information, visit www.nassauparadiseisland.com.

 

Garden of the Gods Resort and Club Junior Golf Academy: Colorado Springs, CO – June 5-7

Garden of the Gods Resort and Club’s 27-hole championship Kissing Camels Golf Course provides a scenic background for junior golfers. The resort and course will welcome junior golfers to experience a three-day program of instruction from PGA professionals comprised of skill assessments, practice sessions and a nine-hole event. $175 per junior golfer. Must be a resort guest. For more information, visit www.gardenofthegodsresort.com.

 

PVDFest: Providence, RI – June 11-14

For the sixth year in a row, experience live music, dance, food and visual art installations as PVDFest transforms public spaces, parks and outdoor stages into festival grounds. PVDFest is a free outdoor party that inspires the soul, fires the spirit and has thousands dancing in the streets. Produced by the City of Providence with founding partner First Works, this celebration has become a signature, much-anticipated celebration for residents and visitors alike. For more information visit www.pvdfest.com.

 

Beer Cheese Festival: Winchester, KY – June 13

Winchester’s annual Beer Cheese Festival welcomes cheese lovers from near and far to sample an array of beer cheese from around the county and enjoy other festival activities such as live music, a beer garden and arts and crafts. Beer Cheese dates back to the 1930s when local chef Joe Allman created the slightly salty, perfectly spicy spread that can now be found from Kentucky to California. The event is free to attend, and guests may purchase “Beer Cheese Bucks” to use when purchasing tastes of various beer cheeses. For more information, visit www.beercheesefestival.com/bcf.

 

International Festival of Arts and Ideas: New Haven, CT – June 13-27

One of the region’s most anticipated cultural events, the International Festival of Arts and Ideas showcases stunning music, dance and theater performances, emergent thinkers and a diverse display of cultural and arts programs from around the world. This festival has been a long-standing tradition within the New Haven community and continues to draw an audience of thousands every year. For more information, visit www.artidea.org.

 

The Grand Opening of The Harriet Tubman Museum: Cape May, NJ – June 19

Honoring an American abolitionist and key figure in the Underground Railroad, The Harriet Tubman Museum will open June 19th to coincide with Juneteenth, which celebrates the 1865 executive decree that freed more than 250,000 enslaved African Americans in Texas. The museum will display artifacts related to the pioneering freedom fighter along with African American art. For more information, visit www.harriettubmanmuseum.org.

 

Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival: Louisville, KY – June 19-20

Kentucky has officially named 2020 the Year of Music, making the Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival the perfect way to usher in the summer. Presented by Four Roses Bourbon, festival goers will be immersed in a soul-satisfying haze of New Orleans and Memphis-style blues and pit barbecue smoke. Overlooking the Ohio River at the Louisville Water Town Park, this event is fun for all ages with countless barbecue and other local restaurants offering samples and specialties, kids’ play areas, a varied lineup of bands and more. For more information or to buy tickets, visit: www.louisvillebluesandbbqfestival.com.

 

The Kimberly Hotel: New York, NY – All 2020

The Kimberly Hotel in New York City is offering guests the deal of the decade to celebrate the 2020’s with their Roaring 20’s Package. Guests who book at The Kimberly will have the option to book two nights in their top executive suite at a $2,020 rate, which will include round trip airport transfers, dinner at their Bistango restaurant, breakfast at their Upstairs rooftop lounge and more. Guests are invited to experience the charm and luxurious comfort of The Kimberly with the best deal in town. For more information, visit www.kimberlyhotel.com.

 

from Lou Hammond Group https://louhammond.com/2020/02/24/roundup-of-lhg-client-spring-events-and-updates/
via https://louhammond.com