Make the most of big events in 2025 as a vacation rental host

Not sure how to align your listing with the year’s top events? Don't worry - Travelnest has done the heavy lifting for you. Below, we've rounded up some fantastic events happening in 2025 across every season, so you can update your listings and make the most of the year.

Why events matter to vacation rentals 

Catching the wave of local events isn't just about filling your listing; it's about showcasing the unique experiences your location offers. Whether you're targeting marathon spectators or festival-goers, event-specific stays add unbeatable value to your property in the eyes of potential guests. 

What’s more, marketing your rental around events is an excellent way to stand out on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and beyond. By tailoring your listing to mention nearby events and amenities, you’re likely to see higher visibility, better engagement, and ultimately, more bookings. 

Spring 2025 events perfect for attracting guests 

Spring promises a wealth of events guaranteed to lure visitors to your area. Here are the highlights to consider featuring in your listing. 

1 March – St David’s Day parade (Cardiff) 

Cardiff comes alive with vibrant parades, music, and celebrations honouring Wales' patron saint. If you own a property in or around Cardiff, highlight its proximity to the parade route—guests will adore the convenience. 

3–5 April – Grand National (Liverpool) 

The Grand National is a global spectacle, drawing thousands of racing fans to Liverpool. Properties near Aintree Racecourse will be in high demand. Be sure to mention easy transport links in your listing to catch the eye of race-day attendees. 

27 April – London Marathon 

One of the UK’s most iconic sporting events, the London Marathon draws international participants and spectators alike. Even if your property isn’t in central London, mentioning nearby transport options is a must for marketing to marathon-goers. 

22 May–1 June – Hay Festival (Hertfordshire) 

The Hay Festival, known as the "Woodstock of the Mind," attracts culture enthusiasts from around the globe. Rentals with cosy spaces and easy access to Hertfordshire’s countryside will resonate deeply with this crowd. 

Summer 2025 events worth capitalising on 

Summer is prime time for festivals and cultural celebrations. Add these standout events to your Airbnb listing to attract sunshine-seeking visitors. 

3–20 July – Manchester International Festival (MIF) 

Manchester’s world-renowned biennial festival is expected to be bigger than ever, with groundbreaking exhibitions and performances. Properties near key venues like The Factory will be a hit with festival-goers. 

7 June – UK Pride (Portsmouth) 

This one-day event transforms Portsmouth into a colourful extravaganza of live performances, parades, and parties. Market your property as a pride-friendly space to attract LGBTQ travellers. 

18–23 June – Sheffield DocFest 

Documentary lovers flock to Sheffield for this fascinating film festival. If your property is well-equipped with streaming services or offers a cosy atmosphere for post-festival downtime, be sure to highlight these amenities. 

1–24 August – Edinburgh International Festival 

For nearly a month, Edinburgh buzzes with theatre, music, and performance art. Properties near the city centre or with easy access to festival venues are hot commodities. Don’t forget to market any unique touches—like sweeping balcony views or dog-friendly stays. 

Autumn 2025 events you don’t want to miss 

Autumn is rich with literary, gastronomic, and cultural events—perfect for attracting niche audiences to your rental property. 

12–21 September – Jane Austen Festival (Hampshire) 

Step into Regency England with this festival celebrating one of Britain’s most beloved authors. Think period dramas and vintage outfits—an ideal time to capture literature and history enthusiasts. 

12–14 September – Ludlow Food Festival 

One for the foodies! Ludlow’s famed food festival celebrates the best of British cuisine—perfect for homes with gourmet kitchens or beautiful dining spaces. 

13 September – Roald Dahl Day (Buckinghamshire) 

Families flock to Buckinghamshire for this whimsical celebration of Roald Dahl’s world. Highlight your family-friendly amenities, such as bunk beds or gardens, to attract these guests. 

19–28 September – York Food & Drink Festival 

Another foodie favourite, this event offers live cooking demos, tastings, and artisan markets. Vacation rentals with dining areas and nearby walking routes to York’s city centre will stand out on search pages. 

Winter 2025 events to brighten the booking calendar 

The year concludes with festive cheer and seasonal celebrations. Draw in guests with these winter highlights. 

15 November–5 January – Christmas at Chatsworth (Derbyshire) 

Chatsworth hosts a dazzling spectacle of lights, decorations, and events. If your rental is in Derbyshire, marketing it as a festive retreat is a brilliant way to attract holiday guests. 

25 November – Ulverston Dickensian Festival (Cumbria) 

This charming Victorian-themed event is a perfect cosy winter getaway attraction. Properties with fireplaces, hot tubs, or winter escape vibes will stand out in bookings. 

9 & 12 December – Festivo (Berkshire) 

This enchanting music festival creates a magical atmosphere in Berkshire. Rentals near concert venues or offering luxe touches like warm complimentary drinks will secure bookings fast. 

30 December–2 January – Hogmanay (Edinburgh) 

Round out the year with Scotland’s premier New Year’s Eve celebration. Properties with direct views of the Hogmanay fireworks or easy access to Edinburgh’s celebrations will shine. 

How to update your listing for 2025 events 

Now that you know the major events happening throughout the UK, it’s time to optimise your vacation rental listing. Here are a few tips to boost your success. 

1. Highlight Events in Descriptions 

If your property is near an event, include it in the headline and description of your listing. For example, mention "Just 10 minutes from the Grand National," or "Steps from York Food & Drink Festival activities." 

2. Optimise Availability 

Ensure your calendar is up to date, especially for key event dates. Guests searching for event-specific stays will want to book quickly, so don’t miss out. 

3. Update Across Platforms 

Take advantage of platforms like Travelnest, which makes updating your property description across multiple sites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia seamless! 

Get ahead of the rush 

2025 is packed with incredible opportunities for vacation rental hosts. By aligning your listing with these standout events, you’re not only filling your calendar - you’re also creating unique experiences that guests will remember (and recommend) long after their stay. 

Start planning today and showcase the best of what 2025 has to offer!