Noctourism is the next big thing for unforgettable events
A new travel trend, “noctourism,” is illuminating the event planning world, offering attendees unique, immersive experiences that go beyond the typical daytime agenda. Imagine your team bonding under the aurora borealis, networking during a moonlit kayak tour, or brainstorming beneath a sky ablaze with stars. Noctourism, or nocturnal tourism, is all about embracing the magic of the night, and it’s poised to revolutionize how we think about events.
Booking.com has identified noctourism as a top travel trend for 2025, driven by a desire for “midnight magic” and a shift away from crowded daytime destinations. With rising global temperatures, attendees are also seeking cooler alternatives, making nighttime events even more appealing. According to their research, a significant majority of travelers are eager to explore dark sky destinations, participate in starbathing experiences, and witness once-in-a-lifetime cosmic events.
For meeting and event planners, this trend presents an exciting opportunity to create truly memorable experiences. Stephanie Vermillion, an astrotourism expert, emphasizes that nighttime travel “adds a sense of mystery and adventure,” revealing natural wonders unseen during daylight hours. Consider incorporating guided stargazing tours, nocturnal wildlife experiences, or even aurora borealis viewings into your event itinerary.
The possibilities for noctourism events are vast. Picture a team-building exercise with night canoeing on the Amazon, where the sounds of nocturnal wildlife create a truly immersive experience. Or, consider a leadership retreat in Sweden, where attendees can witness the breathtaking northern lights, followed by dog sledding under the stars.
Stateside, planners can explore bioluminescence kayak tours in Maine, stargazing in Utah’s Bryce Canyon, or manta ray night snorkeling in Hawaii. In Sedona, a desert mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, is situated in the northern region of Arizona. Darkness lingers for longer, visitors can opt for more evening-based activities to truly immerse into the local surroundings such as The Night Sky Star, Galaxy and Sedona Story Tour, where astro-adventurers can learn more about the history of Sedona’s astrology concepts and uncover hidden aspects of modern culture, connecting this to the region’s ancient past. These unique experiences offer a refreshing alternative to traditional event activities, providing attendees with a sense of wonder and adventure.
By embracing noctourism, meeting and event planners can create extraordinary experiences that leave a lasting impression. From chasing the aurora borealis to exploring bioluminescent bays, the night offers a world of possibilities for unforgettable events.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
Photo by Booking.com
