From celestial spectacles to world-class expos, 2025 is packed with unmissable global events that promise to draw travelers from all corners of the world.
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a sports fan, this year’s lineup offers something for everyone.
Agoda, a leading digital travel platform, has curated a list of the five most exciting events of 2025, helping travelers plan their next big adventure. These events not only provide unique experiences but also offer opportunities to explore diverse destinations and cultures.
Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, “With some amazing events on the calendar, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for travelers looking for a unique experience. With a wide range of accommodations, flights, and activities, all wrapped in a seamless booking experience, Agoda is here to help capture every moment by making travel planning both effortless and enjoyable.”
1. 2025 Jubilee Year – Rome, Italy (Throughout 2025)
Every 25 years, Rome hosts a Jubilee Year, a sacred tradition dating back to the 14th century. Millions of pilgrims from around the world will travel to the Eternal City to participate in spiritual celebrations, processions, and papal blessings.
One of the highlights of the Jubilee Year 2025 is the World Meeting of Families in June, an event that unites people from different backgrounds in a shared celebration of faith. For history and culture lovers, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Rome’s deep religious traditions while exploring its ancient landmarks, Vatican City, and Renaissance masterpieces.
2. Northern Lights – Tromsø, Norway (January – April 2025)
For those seeking a natural wonder, Tromsø in Norway offers one of the best chances to witness the aurora borealis in its full glory.
2025 will be a particularly special year for Northern Lights hunters, as it coincides with the solar maximum, a period of heightened solar activity that leads to more frequent and vibrant aurora displays.
Beyond chasing the lights, travelers can enjoy dog sledding, Arctic fjord cruises, and reindeer safaris, making Tromsø an unforgettable winter escape.
3. World Expo 2025 – Osaka, Japan (April 13 – October 13, 2025)
The World Expo 2025 in Osaka is set to be one of the year’s biggest international events, drawing millions of visitors to Japan’s vibrant Kansai region.
With the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” this six-month-long event will feature cutting-edge innovations, immersive exhibits, and cultural showcases from more than 150 participating countries.
You can also read about the national pavilions of Asia Pacific, Europe and, North America & the Middle East.
Aside from the Expo, visitors can explore Osaka’s historic sites, buzzing street food culture, and nearby attractions such as Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe.
4. SAIL Amsterdam – Amsterdam, Netherlands (August 20 – 24, 2025)
Taking place only once every five years, SAIL Amsterdam is one of the world’s most impressive maritime festivals.
In August 2025, the city’s harbor will be filled with majestic tall ships, historic vessels, and modern naval fleets, creating a breathtaking floating parade.
Visitors can board ships, meet sailors, and take part in waterfront festivities, concerts, and exhibitions. For history buffs and sea lovers, this is a rare chance to see a centuries-old seafaring tradition come to life.
5. SEA Games – Bangkok, Thailand (December 9 – 20, 2025)
For sports fans, Bangkok will be the place to be in December 2025 as the city hosts the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, a prestigious multi-sport event featuring top athletes from across the region.
Held every two years, the SEA Games showcase a mix of traditional and modern sports, including Muay Thai, sepak takraw, and e-sports.
Beyond the competitions, travelers can immerse themselves in Thailand’s dynamic street markets, royal palaces, and world-famous cuisine, making it a perfect end-of-year travel destination.
Plan Your 2025 Adventures with Agoda
With over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000+ flight routes, and 300,000+ activities, Agoda makes it easier for travelers to seamlessly plan their trips around these global events.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection in Rome, Arctic adventures in Norway, cultural experiences in Japan, maritime history in Amsterdam, or thrilling sports in Bangkok, 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for travelers.
