Three major anniversaries are coming up in 2017 - these are the 500th anniversary of the reformation, which Germany has embraced in a number of ways, and the 150th anniversary of the founding of Canada, which has rocketed the country to the top of Lonely Planet's list the top countries to visit in the coming year and Finland is celebrating 100 years of independence in 2017.
Germany will celebrate the Reformation throughout 2017 - and launched its tourism board launched its theme of "Luther 2017 - 500 Years of the Reformation in Germany," on the official day of the beginning of the period, Oct. 31, 2016.
"Martin Luther as an iconic figure is an excellent brand ambassador when it comes to inspiring international travelers interested in culture or religion - including 800 million Protestants worldwide - to visit the cultural travel destination Germany," said Petra Hedorfer, CEO of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB). "Our Reformation anniversary theme campaign is consequently aligned with the GNTB's digital strategy and will be prominently featured on various online platforms as well as all relevant social media channels. The campaign will portray a modern Germany and strengthen the international position of Destination Germany."
Canada is looking forward to a year in the spotlight and there is no doubt events will coincide with its 150th anniversary and annual events will be further enhanced by this milestone.
"Our tourism partners from coast to coast to coast are working hard to provide travelers with unique and unforgettable experiences. There is something for everyone here. The year 2017 is also our country's 150th anniversary, and we couldn't think of a better time to invite the world to discover Canada," said Bardish Chagger, minister of small business and tourism, to Lonely Planet when the country was honored as the "Destination of the Year."
Finland will be celebrating its centenary year and the milestone will be honored through a variety of events, exhibitions, musical celebrations, films and more throughout the capital of Helsinki and the country.
Other notable anniversaries include a 50th celebration for Lindblad. The tour operator will honor the 50th Anniversary of Lars-Eric Lindblad's pioneering voyage to Galapagos with the first citizen explorers.
It has also been 90 years since the launch of Pan Am, and despite the demise of the airline in 1991, its iconic logo remains a part of travel history forever and has been memorialized in a new book Pan Am: History, Design & Identity.
For those who grew up in the '60s, it is the 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love. If you want to get back into the loving spirit, head to San Francisco this year. Visitors will be able to look back at the Summer of Love through exhibitions at some of the region's top museums, special events and concerts that honor what the movement meant.
In Hawaii, two iconic hotels celebrate milestones this year. The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa celebrates 40 years next year and has launched a romantic "Suites Set Sail" package. The exclusive travel package is curated for guests seeking a romantic Hawaiian experience on land and sea.
February 2017 will mark the 90th anniversary of The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, known as the "Pink Palace of the Pacific." Built in 1927, the iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel ushered in a new era of luxurious resort travel to Hawaii. Keep an eye out for promotions and packages throughout the year at the resort.
Fans of music will note that it is also the 50th anniversary of Canada's Festival d'Ete de Quebec, which will take place in Quebec City from July 6-16. The star-studded celebration will be made even more memorable as Canada celebrates 150 years since its founding.
While technically not an anniversary, the United Nations has declared 2017 the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. The event will recognize "the importance of well-designed and well-managed tourism, as well as the positive impact it can have on the local communities, environments and economies."
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