July 2023
Summer vacations are well underway around the world with families and friends traveling and uncovering new places.  The adventure of traveling somewhere new inspires curiosity about culture, heritage, and traditions. Holidays around the world are the perfect way to satisfy that curiosity.

Discover & Explore different holiday traditions around the world with Historic Hotels!
Eureka Springs, Arkansas (1886)

1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa is a mountaintop vacation retreat hand-constructed of Arkansas limestone by Irish stone masons. When this “Grand Ol’ Lady of the Ozarks” opened, the railroad had reached the village and brought tourists eager to sample the healing waters of the local springs. Located atop the historic district and surrounded by acres of gardens, forested walking trails, and restored Victorian shops, the hotel retains its historic character all while offering spa activities, rooftop dining, and luxurious amenities. Eureka Springs itself ranks consistently a top destination for the arts and has been named the "Wedding Capital of The South" by many within the hospitality industry.

Historic Hotels of America®
& Holiday Traditions!
Bring on the fireworks as well the holiday season nostalgia in July as we celebrate America's Independence Day and look at holiday traditions at different Historic Hotels in America. Come along as we discover and explore holidays in July and take a small leap into the holiday season!
Fourth of July
Christmas
Halloween
(1847) Washington, DC

The Fourth of July is a festive summer holiday that includes good BBQ, family and friends, and of course a grand firework display. The nation’s capital, Washington DC, is home to elaborate Fourth of July celebrations.

A most celebrated historic Washington, DC, hotel, The Willard InterContinental has been the focal point for elegant dinners, meetings, and social events since 1818. Located in the heart of Washington, DC, one block from The White House and Ranked among the “Top 10 Best Hotels in Washington, DC, 2019” by U.S. News & World Report, The Willard’s unique blend of contemporary luxury and historic charm subtly reflects the spirit of the city. The Willard Intercontinental is a popular spot for watching the fireworks on the Fourth for its convenient downtown location.

(1907) New York, New York

Christmas always marks the festive time of year and is unique in its traditions celebrated differently around the world. Notoriously known for being the set of many films throughout its history, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York takes the torch when it comes to Christmas done festively at The Plaza Hotel. Lookout for seasonal guides during the holiday season for festive activities.

A U.S. National Historic Landmark, The Plaza has stood as one of New York City’s most iconic destinations since the beginning of the 20th century. The timeless monument to luxury is framed by the some of the most extraordinary and historical locations in the world since it first opened its doors in 1907. It is located on the intersection of 5th Avenue and 59th Street in upper Manhattan.


(1886) Eureka Springs, Arkansas

October marks the beginning of spooky season and that means witches, pumpkins, ghosts, and of course, Halloween. 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa take the average ghost story to a different level. There have been plenty of reports over the years of intense paranormal activity such has visual apparitions in the mirror, rearranged room decorations, playful spirits in Victorian attire, and slammed and locked doors.

1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa is a mountaintop vacation retreat hand-constructed of Arkansas limestone by Irish stone masons. Located atop the historic district and surrounded by acres of gardens, forested walking trails, and restored Victorian shops, the hotel retains its historic character all while offering a spa activities, rooftop dining, and luxurious amenities.
History Mystery: Which hotel served as a women's college for almost 30 years?
Discover the mystery behind how a hotel served as a remarkable women's college, conservatory, and preparatory school.
Historic Hotels Worldwide®:
Preserving World History
Venturing to other parts of the world, there are many holiday traditions that are unique to different countries. India and China both have cultural holidays such as Holi and Chinese New Year that are made up of colorful and spiritual festivities. Take a look at our Historic Hotels in the regions where some of these traditions take place!
Holi
Chinese New Year
(1670) Rajasthan, India

Holi is a religious holiday celebrated primarily by the Hindu faith and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. It is described as the “Festival of Colors” because of the playful tradition of tossing gulaal (colored powdered pigments) onto one another and into the air. In Rajasthan, India, it is perhaps the most kaleidoscopically-vibrant scene on earth as it already the land of bright hues and Holi heightens that appeal further.

Originally built in 1670, Deogarh Mahal is an imposing palace boasting a commanding view of the Aravalli mountain range, lakes, and countryside in Rajasthan, India. With its gray battlements, domes, turrets, jharokhas, and huge gateways, Deogarh Mahal is a stunning sight from the village below. Boasting 50 individually decorated guestrooms and suites, Deogarh Mahal highlights the rich history, art, and traditions of India throughout the property with expressive colors, vibrant linens, and intricately detailed furnishings. While less ostentatious than other Rajasthan residences, Deogarh Mahal represents a wealth of history and cultural significance.

(1929) Shanghai, China

 The Lunar New Year is a celebration that symbolizes the arrival of spring and is also the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar. It is widely celebrated in South Korea, Vietnam, and is the most important holiday in China. During this time, families decorate windows and doors with vibrant red paper in different designs with auspicious wishes written on them for the new year. Shopping is done for the holiday in open-air markets and buying little gifts for loved ones.

Situated at the famous Bund promenade and the unrivaled shopping area on Nanjing Road, the Fairmont Peace Hotel is the perfect place to explore Shanghai’s spectacular scenery and vibrant lifestyle. The city is home to the world’s second-highest observation deck in the Shanghai Tower, a huge collection of ancient Chinese artifacts in the Shanghai Museum, and the busiest shopping center in the world on Nanjing Road. Guests can visit Old Town Shanghai for historic buildings and landmarks, take several classic tours along the river, the Bund, and throughout Shanghai.

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