One-Timers - Rolling Out the Red Carpet for One Time Celebrations – 2011
The worldâs most photographed event â the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
By Josephine Matyas
Has there ever been a year with so many celebrations happening from coast to coast? The 12 months of 2011 are filled with destinations whooping it up and rolling out the red carpet to mark anniversaries, many with special promotions for visitors.
The list of possibilities stretches from one coast to another. The deals and activities are special. Let’s take a look, in alphabetical order.
Alabama
In January 2011, Alabama officially kicks off the Year of Alabama Music.
The scoop: From the Muscle Shoals studios, to the Hank Williams Trail, to the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, visitors can experience the history and hear the sounds behind dozens of world-wide number-one hits.
The events: More than 200 festivals and events celebrate Alabama’s musical heritage – from fiddlers on front porches to Mobile’s Bayfest. It’s also a good time to visit the state’s 10 music-themed attractions. www.yearofalabamamusic.com
Not to be missed: The Hank Williams Festival, June 10 to 12, Montgomery; W.C. Handy Music Festival, July 23 to 31, Florence, www.wchandymusicfestival.org; the FAME Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals where international stars like Aretha Franklin and the Allman Brothers Band recorded great hits, www.fame2.com
New Mexico
New Mexico invites shutterbugs to bring their cameras to the 40th anniversary of the world’s most photographed event – the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
The scoop: During the festival (October 1 to 9) more than 600 gigantic balloons fill the skies over Albuquerque. www.balloonfiesta.com
The events: Spectators are able to walk among the balloons and talk to the pilots while they are launching. Other activities include live music, a small carnival and food booths galore serving everything from breakfast burritos to cheese curds.
Selling features: Motorcoach tours can experience the Fiesta for one all-inclusive price: motorcoach parking on the Balloon Fiesta field, entrance to the event and VIP hospitality treatment. Register groups for the Group Tour Hospitality Package at www.itsatrip.org/travel/balloon-fiesta
South Carolina
South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach is celebrating a special milestone for Canadian travellers – 2011 marks the 50th anniversary of the popular Canadian-American Days Festival (March 12 to 20). www.VisitMyrtleBeach.com
The scoop: Every March, thousands of Canadian vacationers and snowbirds visit from the north and scatter throughout the Grand Strand communities of Myrtle Beach for the festival.
The events: The annual event features a variety of fun activities and concerts, welcome receptions, military band concerts, cultural and sporting events, and wildlife and history days. There’s a huge kick-off Expo planned at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.
The deals: Special discounts are available to Canadian visitors for area attractions, restaurants, golf and services. www.CanAmDays.com
Texas
In Texas, 2011 marks the 175th anniversary of the Battle Of The Alamo.
The scoop: The historic Alamo was the first Spanish mission established in San Antonio, and the site of the famous Battle of the Alamo when its 189 defenders, including legendary frontiersman Davy Crockett, fell after repeated attacks by the Mexican army.
Must-see stops: What remains today is the chapel, one of the most photographed facades in the nation and the Long Barracks Museum and Library containing relics and mementos from the Republic of Texas and narration on the fall of the Alamo. Visit www.sanantonio.com for more information on celebrations and events.
The deals: In Canada, a number of tour operators offer packages to San Antonio, including Air Canada Vacations, Merit, Alio Tours and Huntington Travel.
Virginia
Virginia pays homage to the Civil War 150th Anniversary Celebration, marking the anniversary of the official beginning of the Civil War.
The scoop: More Civil War battles were fought on Virginia soil than in any other state. Whether your client is an American Civil War buff, a re-enactor, a student of history, or simply on vacation, 2011 is filled with exceptional opportunities to view historic sites as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Don’t miss events: In Manassas, from July 21 to 24 walking and bus tours of the area and military parades commemorate First Bull Run, the first land battle of the Civil War. www.virginia.org
To find out more about the Discover America - Canada Committee, attend a meeting or receive the bi-monthly newsletter, contact them by fax at (416) 352-5567, by e-mail at admin@seeamerica.ca or visit www.seeamerica.ca
