The holiday season is a time of celebration, indulgence, and reflection—and the world’s most iconic resorts are offering exceptional, unforgettable experiences that take these traditions to the next level. From serene moments of wellness to extravagant feasts and glittering parties, here are some of the most remarkable events to have on your radar this holiday season—and take note, many are in close proximity to one of The Agency’s 130+ global locations.
Mandarin Oriental
Silent Night: A Calming Spa Experience
Renowned for its sophisticated approach to hospitality, Mandarin Oriental continues its ten-year vision to double its global footprint. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Silent Night, a wellness tradition encouraging guests to embrace calmness, reflection, and mindfulness during the bustling holiday season across its properties around the world. At Mandarin Oriental, New York, the Sunset Floating Meditation provides a tranquil sound bath session in the lap pool, enhanced by the glow of the setting sun. In Miami, the Signature Time Ritual features a singing bowl healing session to cleanse the mind, paired with a take-home gift for lasting relaxation. Meanwhile, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona offers a Tibetan-inspired ritual blending sound healing, massage, and rejuvenating facials, perfectly capturing the city’s festive vibrancy. We welcome this moment of silence amid this busy season.
Broadwick Soho, London
Maximalist Christmas Magic in the Heart of Soho
Broadwick Soho infuses the holidays with flair, charm, and a quintessentially British twist. With a month of events and celebrations, two life-sized elephants are decked out in Christmas finery to welcome guests. On December 10, the rooftop bar Flute hosts carols with a panto-inspired twist, while Dear Jackie serves lavish Italian meals, from Christmas Eve dinners to traditional Christmas Day feasts. Their luxurious stay packages include festive amenities, Champagne, and access to Broadwick’s exclusive lounges and dining. On New Year’s Eve, they end the year with a dazzling party with DJ sets at Flute, setting the stage for an unforgettable 2025.
Holiday Fête Crafted by Michelin Star Chef Pierre Gagnaire
Brasserie Fouquet’s
Both Brasserie Fouquet’s and Joy will be celebrating the festive season with menus inspired by the magic of the season. At Brasserie Fouquet’s, the Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve dinners will showcase French gastronomy at its finest, with a duck foie gras terrine, smoked salmon, poached lobster, and roast capon, for an authentic gourmet experience. The festive menu at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Joy, will have a Mediterranean flair with a scallop carpaccio, braised turbotin, and lobster fricassée. Meat lovers will be in heaven with Bresse capon supreme and Rossini steak filet. On New Year’s Eve, guests can continue their celebration enjoying the firework display along the Champs-Elysées, creating an enchanting backdrop from which to see in the New Year as a family, couple, or with friends.
Reschio, Umbria
A Jazz-Filled New Year’s Extravaganza
Set in a 3,700-acre sanctuary of rolling hills and cypress trees, Reschio brings Cuban glamour and old-world charm to its three-day New Year’s celebration. Guests can explore transformed stables featuring 1920s-style glamour, indulge in casino games, and attend jazz performances by Cuban-inspired headliners. The festivities conclude with a Cuban-inspired carnival and a celestial wellness retreat for relaxation and renewal on New Year’s Eve.
Gstaad Palace, Switzerland
A Storybook Winter Wonderland
This alpine gem offers festive dining, art exhibitions, and cozy igloo nights. Jingle bells ring throughout the quaint streets of Gstaad, while the LHW’s Gstaad Palace hosts intimate holiday events showcasing the magic of Swiss traditions.
Anantara Villa Padierna, Spain
Mediterranean Festivities
Celebrate the season in Marbella with a grand advent calendar, candlelight concerts, and workshops ranging from festive centerpieces to pottery at LHW’s Anantara Villa Padierna. A “Meet the Donkeys” event delights families, while culinary workshops bring a flavorful twist to holiday traditions.
Hotel Swexan, Dallas
A Texan Holiday
Wonderland Hotel Swexan transforms into a festive haven with its annual Teddy Bear Tea, a Holiday Market, and other seasonal events. Perfect for families, the celebrations blend whimsy and elegance in the heart of Dallas.
Sirru Fen Fushi, Maldives
Island Enchantment
This tropical paradise elevates the holidays with barefoot luxury. Highlights at Sirru Fen Fushi include the Fire & Earth Gala Dinner on Christmas Eve, a lavish beachfront feast under the stars, and family-friendly adventures like the Pirates Sirru Pool Party, creating cherished memories for all ages. Whether you’re seeking serene wellness escapes, vibrant city festivities, or exotic island adventures, these luxury properties offer unique ways to celebrate the season.
Festive Fun in Nature
A Holiday Hunt at InterContinental Danang
The InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort in Vietnam offers an unforgettable festive season with its unique Find the Santa Douc scavenger hunt. Nestled within a monkey reserve known for its endangered Douc Langur monkeys, the resort adds a playful twist to the holidays by hiding a Santa-clad stuffed Douc Langur doll daily between December 20 and January 3. Families eagerly wake up each morning to search for this adorable keepsake, creating a lively and heartwarming tradition that blends holiday cheer with the resort’s rich connection to nature.
For more holiday festivities and ideas for the season, check out The Agency Magazine’s Fall/Winter Issue.
