As we begin to emerge from a bitterly cold winter of being trapped inside, Spring doesn’t just signal a new season but a new sense of optimism for the UK. The light at the end of the tunnel now seems not so far in the distance and the idea of travel, new experiences and different surroundings is slowly becoming a reality again. While it is still too soon to be able to hop on a plane across the Atlantic for an Easter getaway, we hope these Springtime activities and joys from our clients will give you that inspiration to start filling your calendar with travel plans again.
New England
During the last weekend of April, the annual Daffodil Festival takes place on Nantucket Island – a weekend of events to celebrate springtime awakening. The first occasion, a very simple affair in the 1970s, included an antique car parade in which islanders showed off their classic cars, followed by a community tailgate picnic in ‘Sconset. Now, decades later, the Daffodil Festival on Nantucket includes art shows, tours, parades (including the antique car parade and tailgate picnic), exhibitions, contests, lectures, and, of course, the annual Nantucket Daffodil Flower Show. There are activities for all ages, and faithful festivalgoers dress up for the occasion and participate enthusiastically! Take part in the Daffy Hat Contest, a Children’s Parade featuring decorated bikes, strollers, wagons, and other self-propelled vehicles, and the famous Sconset Tailgate Picnic. The Pine Woods Morris Dancers often perform throughout the day at various locations.
Kennebunkport in Maine is renowned for being one of the prettiest coastal towns in New England. As the weather starts to turn in the spring, and the sun starts to linger longer, it makes for a great place to spend Spring. Explore the nature paths at Laudholm Farm and Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge, tour the Fransiscan Monastery grounds, and while away along the beautiful peaceful paths to the riverfront, over 60 serene acres. Mid-April is also when the humpback whales start to make an appearance around the coastal waters of Maine, so avid whale watchers will be able to catch their first glimpses of the season too!
For a cooler New England tradition, sample “Sugar on Snow”. Maple sugaring season is in full swing during the spring in New England. From Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts, to New Hampshire’s Maple Sugaring Weekend in late March, there are plenty of Maple Sugar themed activities to take part in across the regions. One of the many traditions is “Sugar on Snow”. To prepare, clean fresh snow is packed down and then hot maple syrup is drizzled over the top in rows. This turns the snow into a maple taffy, which can then be eaten. It is a New England specialty, and one not to be missed in the early days of Spring!
@NewEnglandVisit #VisitNE
Louisiana
In just a few short weeks, gardens and fields all across Louisiana will be blooming with brightly coloured wildflowers. There really is no shortage of gardens and trails across the state where you can enjoy the Spring spectacle. The Wild Azalea Trail in Alexandria holds the honour of being the longest continuous trail in the state. Designated a National Recreation Trail due to its incredible scenic value, it offers hikers a chance to be surrounded by beautiful wild azaleas in bloom. The Jungle Gardens on Avery Island is also a sight to see. The 170-acre semi-tropical garden is nestled along Bayou Petite Anse, offering visitors a chance to see wildlife along their garden stroll. The rolling landscape gives way to abundant flowers, including azaleas, camellias, Louisiana irises, and many others.
In New Orleans, saying goodbye to King Cake season while simultaneously welcoming back crawfish season is a sure sign of springtime in the city and across Louisiana. While the state-wide delicacy is technically available year-round, any New Orleanian knows that crawfish is best enjoyed in the spring. Grab a pound (or two) while the getting is good this season. From boiling and peeling, to where to purchase and picnic – check out the Guide to Crawfish for inspiration and guidance at home.
While 2021 will continue to see the postponement and cancellation of festivals, New Orleans will be back in all its glory in 2022 – and Spring truly is an exciting time to be in the city. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival that is taking place in October 2021 will be back next year in its usual April timeframe, featuring huge names from across the world as well as the iconic Louisiana second line performances it is known for. The historic French Quarter Festival will also be returning in April 2022
Showcasing the very best food, music, art and culture from inside of New Orleans.
@LouisianaTravel #OnlyLouisiana
Maverick
While Hawaii is a fantastic destination all year round, April and May are considered some of the best months in terms of climate. There are pleasant average highs of 30 degrees and little rainfall leading up to the summer months, making it an ideal time to explore the many glorious islands in the vicinity.
Maui and Kauai in particular, lure travellers with an invigorating mix of natural beauty and outdoor fun, all shared with warm alohas. Maverick Helicopters offer the opportunity to fly over both the pristine coastline of Maui and the lush and rugged terrain of Kauai for an incredible aerial adventure. These helicopter tours feature some of the islands stunning natural landmarks including the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, the Bali Hai Cliffs along the North Shore and Mount Makana.
Maverick Helicopters have been offering high-class tours for 25 years to guests and have picked up a record nine consecutive FAA Diamond Safety Awards in the process for their tireless work to aircraft safety and mechanical training.
@MaverickHelicopters #FlyMaverick
North Carolina
North Carolina bursts with growth and greenery in spring! Flowers start to bloom, the days get warmer, and the whole state begins to buzz with festivals and events.
North Carolina’s mountain wildflowers are as spectacular as the fall foliage. Colour unfolds from March to June with a sequence of trout lilies and violets, trillium and lady slippers, and azaleas, mountain laurel and rhododendron. Pick up well-known trails at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain and Chimney Rock. East of the mountains, discover a surprising wealth of wildflowers at Raven Rock State Park in Lillington and the amazing Flower Hill Nature Preserve near Clayton.
Throughout April, celebrate North Carolina Beer Month, which connects the dots on the brewery map and destinations where beer culture thrives. Travellers can cross from the mountains to the coast to find signature festivals, including the Untappd Beer Festival in Bank of America Stadium in Uptown Charlotte. Or simply grab a seat on a spaced-out patio. With more than 300 breweries and brewpubs, North Carolina is the state of Southern beer.
By the end of April, coastal waters feel welcoming even to people without wetsuits, and stand-up paddleboards dot the surf and sounds along the 320-mile shoreline. Paddle boarding attracts more first-time participants than any other outdoor sporting activity, and North Carolina makes an ideal destination for both novices and champions. And with plentiful lakes and rivers, the state has developed inland strongholds including Lake Norman, the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte and Asheville.
@VisitNC #VisitNC
Tennessee
Enjoy a spring train ride to see Tennessee’s gorgeous scenery and learn about the history around the area with the Tennessee Valley Railroad. Board at the Grand Junction Station in Chattanooga for a 55-minute excursion that crosses four bridges and passes through a pre-Civil War tunnel. The local history is presented by a tour guide and there is a brief tour of a train restoration shop plus a historic turntable demonstration.
Window Cliffs State Natural Park in Baxter is a 275-acre natural wonder with a challenging hike that rewards those with spectacular views of the Upper Cumberland below. The name is derived from the natural stone structures at the summit, producing a window-like shape. Cross over streams, hills and more to get some of the most epic photos.
For those looking to expend extra energy, visit the SOAR Adventure Tower in Franklin, about 30 minutes south of Nashville. With four levels and more than 110 climbing elements, kids and adults alike are challenged to overcome their limitations both physically and mentally. Each platform offers three different features so you can change course whenever to create your own experience. Music-themed elements can be found throughout the courses, giving a nod to the rich music found throughout Tennessee. Ground level is perfect for little ones to explore their own abilities, ideal for ages 4-7 with 19 elements. Level 1 is 15 feet above ground, Level 2 is approximately 30 feet above ground and Level 3 is more than 45 feet, all filled with challenges to complete. When back on the ground, the family can also take part in a round of mini golf!
@tnvacation #MadeInTN
Ends
For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:
Kirsty Dillury, PR and Communications Director: kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk
Anna Watt- Senior PR Manager: anna@ttmworld.co.uk
Alex Keelan – Communications Executive for Louisiana Office of Tourism, Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, Maverick Helicopters, Visit North Carolina: alex@ttmworld.co.uk
David Venables – Communications Executive for Discover New England, Tennessee Tourism: david@ttmworld.co.uk
For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)208 313 1717