50 Experiences Every Black Woman Over 50 Should Consider
Welcome to Your Summer
There comes a point in a woman’s life when she realizes that time is no longer something to be spent carelessly.
Not because she is getting older, but because she finally understands the value of her experiences. She knows what it took to get here. The sacrifices. The responsibilities. The seasons of putting everyone else’s needs ahead of her own. The years spent building careers, raising children, supporting aging parents, nurturing relationships, and carrying burdens that often went unseen.
For many Black women, those responsibilities begin early and linger long. We become the dependable one. The strong one. The one who figures things out. The one everyone calls when they need help.
And while there is beauty in that role, there is also a quiet cost. Too often, our own dreams are postponed until “someday.” Someday when the children are older.
Someday when work slows down. Someday when there is more time. Someday when there is more money. Someday when everything else is handled.
Yet the truth is that someday has a way of continuing to move further and further away. That is why this guide exists.
Not merely as a collection of destinations and events, but as an invitation. An invitation to reclaim a season of your life that belongs entirely to you.
Summer has always represented possibility. Long days. New experiences. Fresh memories waiting to be created. It is a season that reminds us that life is meant to be enjoyed, not simply managed.
Whether you are dreaming of sipping wine in Napa Valley, dancing in the streets of Barbados during Crop Over, attending a world-class jazz festival, exploring the history of Harlem, or finally saying yes to that international trip you’ve been discussing with your girlfriends for years, we hope these pages inspire you to think bigger about what is possible.
Because travel is about far more than transportation.
It is about transformation.
The places we visit shape us. They challenge our perspectives. They reconnect us with our curiosity. They remind us that there is still so much beauty left to discover, both in the world and within ourselves.
And perhaps most importantly, they remind us that our lives are still unfolding.
No matter your age.
No matter your relationship status.
No matter how many places you have already visited.
There is always another adventure waiting.
Why We Created This Guide
At Travel Divas, we have spent nearly two decades watching women experience the life-changing power of travel.
We have watched first-time international travelers step onto a plane with nervous excitement and return home with a renewed sense of confidence. We have witnessed lifelong friendships form over shared meals and unforgettable excursions. We have seen women celebrate milestone birthdays, retirements, personal victories, and fresh starts in destinations they once only imagined visiting.
Again and again, we have learned that travel offers something many women desperately need but rarely give themselves permission to pursue.
Space.
Space to think. Space to breathe. Space to reconnect with themselves outside of the roles they perform every day.
For Black women in particular, travel can be profoundly restorative. It provides opportunities to engage with history, culture, art, cuisine, and communities that deepen our understanding of the world and our place within it. It allows us to rest without guilt, celebrate without apology, and explore with a sense of freedom that often feels rare in everyday life.
This guide was created to help you discover experiences worthy of your time, energy, and investment.
Inside, you will find cultural festivals, food and wine events, wellness experiences, premium escapes, international adventures, and gatherings that celebrate the richness of Black culture across the globe.
Some are close enough for a weekend getaway. Others may inspire the trip of a lifetime.
All are opportunities to create memories that will last long after the summer ends.
As You Read This Guide
We encourage you to approach this guide with curiosity. Allow yourself to dream a little.
Pay attention to the experiences that make your heart beat a little faster. Notice the destinations that immediately capture your attention. Highlight the events you find yourself imagining. Share them with a friend. Start a group chat. Open a new tab and begin researching.
Most importantly, give yourself permission to consider what you truly want.
Not what is practical. Not what is expected. Not what everyone else needs from you. What you want.
Because the women who create extraordinary lives are rarely the women who wait for the perfect moment. They are the women who decide.
They decide that the next chapter deserves to be just as exciting as every chapter that came before it. And if you’re holding this guide in your hands, we suspect you’re already beginning to make that decision.
Welcome to your summer.
We have a feeling it’s going to be unforgettable.
Stay Magical,
The Travel Divas Team
The 50 Experiences
Listed in Chronological Order
1. Ojai Food + Wine
Ojai, CA | March 5-8, 2026 | Food & Wine
A premier epicurean weekend in the charming mountain town of Ojai, featuring intimate dinners, winery tours,
and cooking experiences with acclaimed California chefs.
2. Charleston Black-Owned Wine + Spirits Tasting
Charleston, SC | March 12-14, 2026 | Food & Wine
An intimate and powerful event highlighting Black-owned wine and spirits brands. A rare opportunity to sip, learn, and directly support the entrepreneurs redefining the beverage industry.
3. Cannes Film Festival
Cannes, France | May 12-23, 2026 | European & Sporting
The epitome of cinematic glamour on the French Riviera. Even as a spectator, the experience of Cannes during festival season, the fashion, the films, the yachts, is unlike anything else in the world.
4. Spoleto Festival USA
Charleston, SC | May 22 – June 7, 2026 | Arts & Ideas
America’s premier performing arts festival brings together the best in opera, dance, theater, and chamber music across 17 days in beautiful historic Charleston.
5. Roots Picnic
Philadelphia, PA | May 30-31, 2026 | Music & Culture
Curated by The Roots, this legendary two-day festival brings together the best in hip-hop, R&B;, and neo-soul with an electric Philadelphia energy.
5. Roots Picnic
Philadelphia, PA | May 30-31, 2026 | Music & Culture
Curated by The Roots, this legendary two-day festival brings together the best in hip-hop, R&B;, and neo-soul with an electric Philadelphia energy.
6. Monaco Grand Prix
Monte Carlo, Monaco | June 4-7, 2026 | European & Sporting
The most distinguished and glamorous race in Formula One. The streets of Monaco transform into the world’s most iconic circuit, surrounded by superyachts, haute couture, and the glittering Mediterranean.
7. Black Food & Wine Experience
Napa Valley, CA | June 18-21, 2026 | Food & Wine
A celebration of Black culinary excellence, exceptional wine, and vibrant culture set against the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley. One of the most elegant gatherings of the summer.
8. Food & Wine Classic in Aspen
Aspen, CO | June 19-21, 2026 | Food & Wine
America’s most iconic culinary festival, set in the breathtaking Rocky Mountain town of Aspen. Three days of cooking demonstrations, celebrity chef dinners, and world-class wine tastings.
9. Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening
Chicago, IL | June 19-21, 2026 | Arts & Ideas
One of the most historic openings of our lifetime. The Obama Presidential Center officially opens on Juneteenth weekend in Chicago’s Jackson Park. A moment worth witnessing in person.
10. Africa Oye
Liverpool, UK | June 20-21, 2026 | International
The UK’s biggest free celebration of African and Caribbean music and culture. Two days of world-class live music in Liverpool’s Sefton Park, drawing over 30,000 visitors each year.
11. Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival
Jackson Hole, WY | June 25-27, 2026 | Food & Wine
An unforgettable three-day epicurean event in one of America’s most spectacular natural settings. World-class cuisine meets the drama of the Teton Range.
12. Kapalua Wine & Food Festival
Maui, HI | June 25-28, 2026 | Food & Wine
The 45th annual celebration of wine and food in paradise. Oceanfront dinners, vineyard excursions, and culinary demonstrations make this Maui event a bucket-list experience.
13. Aspen Ideas Festival
Aspen, CO | June 25 – July 1, 2026 | Arts & Ideas
A gathering of inspiring leaders, policy makers, innovators, and brilliant thinkers. If you love big ideas and even bigger conversations, this week-long event in Aspen belongs on your calendar.
14. St. Kitts Music Festival
St. Kitts | June 25-27, 2026 | International
A magical extravaganza of Caribbean and international music set against the backdrop of this stunning island. R&B;, soca, reggae, and jazz fill three nights on the shores of the Caribbean Sea.
15. Saratoga Jazz Festival
Saratoga Springs, NY | June 27-28, 2026 | Music & Culture
Two electrifying days of jazz, soul, and blues in the elegant setting of Saratoga Performing Arts Center. A perfect blend of world-class music and upstate New York charm.
16. NMAAHC Summer Celebration
Washington, D.C. | June 28, 2026 | Arts & Ideas
Special summer programming and tours at the National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall. An experience that every Black woman should have at least once.
17. Wimbledon Championships
London, UK | June 29 – July 12, 2026 | European & Sporting
The most prestigious Grand Slam in tennis. Strawberries and cream. Pristine white courts. The gentle applause of a crowd that has been watching champions walk these grounds since 1877.
18. ESSENCE Festival of Culture
New Orleans, LA | July 3-5, 2026 | Music & Culture
The crown jewel of Black cultural celebrations. Four days of world-class concerts, inspiring panels, wellness programming, and community in the heart of New Orleans.
19. Afro Nation Portugal
Portimao, Portugal | July 3-5, 2026 | International
The world’s biggest Afrobeats festival on a stunning Atlantic beach. Three nights of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Afro-fusion with a global Black community that knows how to celebrate.
20. ESSENCE Wellness House
New Orleans, LA | July 3-5, 2026 | Concerts & Wellness
A sanctuary for mental, physical, and spiritual renewal running alongside the ESSENCE Festival. Yoga, meditation, wellness panels, and healing conversations in the heart of New Orleans.
21. Barbados Crop Over Festival
Barbados | July 4 – August 3, 2026 | International
The sweetest summer festival in the Caribbean. A month of music, arts, craft markets, and cultural events culminating in the Grand Kadooment parade. Barbados at its absolute best.
22. Tour de France
France | July 4-26, 2026 | European & Sporting
The iconic cycling race winds through the most stunning landscapes in France before its triumphant finale on the Champs-Elysees in Paris. A spectacular sporting and cultural event to witness in person.
23. Ravello Festival
Amalfi Coast, Italy | July 4 – September 5, 2026 | European & Sporting
A breathtaking summer music festival at the cliffside Villa Rufolo, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. World-class opera, classical music, and dance performances in one of Italy’s most beautiful settings.
24. Taste of Chicago
Chicago, IL | July 8-12, 2026 | Food & Wine
One of the world’s largest food festivals, showcasing over 80 Chicago restaurants across five days in Grant Park. The perfect reason to spend a long weekend in one of America’s greatest cities.
25. JAY-Z 30th Anniversary Concerts
Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY | July 10-12, 2026 | Concerts & Wellness
A historic three-night stand at Yankee Stadium celebrating one of the greatest careers in music history. This is not just a concert. It is a cultural moment that will be talked about for decades.
26. Bastille Day in Paris
Paris, France | July 13-14, 2026 | European & Sporting
Spectacular fireworks over the Eiffel Tower and national celebrations across the city. There is no better time to be in Paris. A memory that lasts a lifetime.
27. Salzburg Festival
Salzburg, Austria | July 17 – August 30, 2026 | European & Sporting
One of the world’s most prestigious performing arts events, featuring a comprehensive program of world-class opera, theatre, and classical music in the birthplace of Mozart.
28. Accra Cultural Immersion Experience
Accra, Ghana | July 2026 | International
Accra is having a moment, and it belongs on your list. From the moving exhibits at the W.E.B. Du Bois Center to the vibrant street art of Jamestown, the energy of Osu, and sunset dinners overlooking the Atlantic, a self-guided or small-group week in Ghana’s capital is one of the most enriching trips a Black woman can take right now.
29. Royal Caribbean Getaway Cruises
Caribbean | Summer 2026 | International
For the woman who wants the ease of a cruise without sacrificing the experience, Royal Caribbean’s summer Caribbean sailings deliver. Multiple itineraries departing from Miami, Port Canaveral, and Galveston, stopping at destinations including Cozumel, Nassau, St. Maarten, and Labadee, with onboard dining, entertainment, and the simplicity of unpacking only once.
30. Antigua Carnival
Antigua | July 25 – August 4, 2026 | International
A vibrant Caribbean summer carnival celebrating soca, calypso, and the infectious spirit of Antigua. Steel pan, costumes, and dancing in the streets make this a pure Caribbean joy experience.
31. International Black Theatre Festival
Winston-Salem, NC | July 27 – August 1, 2026 | Music & Culture
A prestigious biennial gathering of Black theatre professionals and enthusiasts from around the world. Performances, workshops, and masterclasses in one transformative week.
32. Newport Jazz Festival
Newport, RI | July 31 – August 2, 2026 | Music & Culture
The granddaddy of all music festivals. Three days of world-class jazz, blues, and soul on the stunning waterfront grounds of Fort Adams State Park.
33. Harlem Week
New York, NY | August 1-16, 2026 | Music & Culture
A massive two-week cultural celebration honoring the rich legacy of Harlem. Music, food, art, health fairs, and community gatherings throughout New York City’s most iconic neighborhood.
34. Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival
Philadelphia, PA | May 30-31, 2026 | Music & Culture
Curated by The Roots, this legendary two-day festival brings together the best in hip-hop, R&B;, and neo-soul with an electric Philadelphia energy.
35. Telluride Jazz Festival
Telluride, CO | August 7-8, 2026 | Music & Culture
An immersive mountain experience celebrating jazz, funk, and soul surrounded by the breathtaking San Juan Mountains. One of the most scenically stunning festival settings in America.
36. Long Beach Jazz Festival
Long Beach, CA | August 8-9, 2026 | Music & Culture
A stunning oceanfront venue sets the stage for two days of premier jazz performances. Arrive early, bring your best sundress, and let the Pacific breeze do the rest.
37. Chale Wote Street Art Festival
Accra, Ghana | August 15-16, 2026 | International
Africa’s largest gathering of artists and innovators takes over the streets of Accra’s historic James Town neighborhood. A powerful, colorful celebration of African creativity and community.
38. AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA Brooklyn
Brooklyn, NY | August 23-24, 2026 | Music & Culture
A vibrant festival of alternative Black culture, music, and art that pushes creative boundaries and celebrates the full spectrum of Blackness.
39. US Open Tennis Championships
New York, NY | August 23 – September 13, 2026 | European & Sporting
The thrilling final Grand Slam of the tennis year, played in the electric atmosphere of Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens. Bring your best energy, because this crowd brings theirs.
40. Notting Hill Carnival
London, UK | August 30-31, 2026 | International
Europe’s biggest street festival celebrating Caribbean culture, music, and food in the heart of West London. Two million people. Steelbands. Jerk chicken on every corner. Iconic.
41. Cannes Yachting Festival
Cannes, France | September 8-13, 2026 | European & Sporting
Europe’s leading in-water premium boat show transforms the Cannes harbor into a floating exhibition of the world’s most extraordinary yachts. A spectacular sensory experience.
42. Monaco Yacht Show
Monaco | September 23-26, 2026 | European & Sporting
The ultimate showcase of superyachts, attracting the world’s most discerning maritime enthusiasts to the glamorous port of Monaco. Come for the boats. Stay for the atmosphere.
43. Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Cape Town, South Africa | October 2026 | International
One of Africa’s largest and most celebrated music events, drawing world-class jazz, Afrobeats, and soul artists to the stunning Mother City. Combine the festival with Table Mountain, the Cape Winelands, and the sheer beauty of Cape Town for a trip that belongs on every woman’s bucket list.
44. Black Travel Summit
Milwaukee, WI | October 15-18, 2026 | International
A major gathering for Black travel enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and content creators. Panels, networking, excursions, and a community of people who understand why travel is transformational.
45. Taste of Soul Family Festival
Los Angeles, CA | October 17, 2026 | Music & Culture
A massive cultural block party in the heart of Los Angeles. Great food, live music, and the unmatched energy of LA’s Black community. Worth planning a fall West Coast trip around.
46. International African American Museum Summer Events
Charleston, SC | Summer 2026 | Arts & Ideas
Ongoing genealogy research programs, historical exhibits, and special summer events at this powerful museum built on the site of one of the nation’s busiest slave markets. Deeply moving and essential.
47. National Black Arts Festival Events
Atlanta, GA | Summer 2026 | Arts & Ideas
Year-round programming honoring performing and visual arts by artists of African descent, with a rich summer calendar of concerts, exhibitions, and film screenings in Atlanta.
48. Black Women Healing Retreats
Various Locations | Summer 2026 | Concerts & Wellness
Eco-friendly wellness retreats designed specifically for Black women, focused on rest, sisterhood, and liberation. Held across multiple locations, these intimate experiences prioritize your restoration above all else.
49. Harlem EatUp!
New York, NY | Dates TBA, Typically Late Spring/Summer | Food & Wine
A beloved celebration of the food, art, and culture of Harlem. Restaurants open their doors, James Beard chefs come uptown, and the neighborhood shows out for one spectacular weekend.
50. Travel Divas Upscale Group Trips
Various Global Destinations | Summer 2026 | Concerts & Wellness
Premium group travel experiences designed specifically for Black women, curated with care by the Travel Divas team. Expertly planned itineraries, handpicked accommodations, and a community of women who travel like they mean it.
“The women who create extraordinary lives are rarely the women who wait for the perfect moment.
They are the women who decide.”
Ready to make this summer unforgettable? Visit TravelDivas.com to explore our upcoming group trips.
