After Thanksgiving Conversations…Here’s what’s trending & booking fast!
There’s something special about the quiet moments that follow Thanksgiving.
The house settles, the dishes are finally done, and conversations from the holiday weekend linger in the heart a little longer.
So many families tell me that this is the time — right after gathering around the table — when they begin dreaming aloud about the trips they want to take together. The laughter shared over pie becomes the spark for planning the next year’s memories.
And this year, those conversations are pointing in one clear direction:
Families are planning ahead for 2026.
Not out of urgency or pressure, but out of a deep desire to create space on the calendar for joy, connection, and the kind of intentional time that doesn’t simply happen — it’s chosen.
As we step into this beautiful season of anticipation, here’s what vacations families are already planning for 2026 and why these early decisions are giving them such peace.
Theme Parks in 2026: A Year of Big Magic and Bigger Possibilities
Walt Disney World & Universal Orlando
Families are securing their 2026 theme park vacations now — especially for winter, spring break, and fall break getaways. These familiar rhythms give families consistency and something hopeful to look forward to throughout the year.
But 2026 planning looks a little different than years past, largely because of one major milestone:
The Epic Universe debut in 2025 gave Orlando a fresh new park to visit — and Dates Are Already Filling
Demand for Universal’s new theme park, Epic Universe is high. Availability is shifting quickly. And here’s the detail many families don’t realize:
The nuances of adding Epic Universe park to your package are tricky… with blackout dates and limited availability.
And with the three new hotels expanding the choices for where to call “home base” while in Orlando, finding the sweet spot for easy access, best value, and exceptional experience is more complicated.
That means early planning isn’t just helpful — it’s wise. Families who want to experience this groundbreaking new park without the overwhelm of last-minute scrambling are choosing to secure their 2026 dates now, while options are still open and flexible.
If your family talked about “finally doing Universal next time,” Thanksgiving may have planted the seed — and 2026 might be the perfect opportunity to watch it bloom.
Not to be left out, the Disney World parks are revving up for an amazing 2026. Because Disney has released hotel availability through December 2026, families who love the Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are already saving their spots.
PRO TIP: Ask me how you can save up to 35% on a fall/holiday trip! Hint: This is a secret sale you will NOT find on Disney’s website!!
These trips fill quickly, not because of sales, but because the best rooms disappear long before the season arrives.
Celebrating Big Moments Through Multi-Generational Travel
One of my favorite trends this season is the rise of meaningful, multi-generational trips. Families are creating space to honor:
- Milestone birthdays
- “Every-other-year” family traditions
- Grandparent-led adventures
- Cousins’ trips that strengthen lifelong bonds
There’s something deeply faith-filled about gathering across generations — sharing time, not just photos; stories, not just schedules. Many families told me over Thanksgiving that they want more of that.
More togetherness. More legacy. More laughter echoing through the years.
2026 is shaping up to be the year they make those dreams real.
Cruising Into 2026: Alaska, Caribbean Journeys & Small-Ship Serenity
Alaska for Summer
Caribbean Sailings for First-Time Cruisers
Small-Ship Experiences for More Breathing Room
An important shift for 2026: many families are choosing concierge-level staterooms or small-ship sailings.
And not because they want something extravagant — but because they want something peaceful.
A small ship often carries around 1,000 guests instead of 6,000 or more on large vessels. That means:
- Shorter lines
- Calmer dining and activity spaces
- Easier movement around the ship
- Better viewpoints, especially in places like Alaska
- A more relaxed pace where you don’t feel like you’re competing for space
Families are craving room to breathe — and small ships are offering exactly that.
All-Inclusive Resorts, Honeymoons & Virtuoso Hotels for 2026
Beyond theme parks and cruises, families are also planning (and YES, I can assist you with all of these trips, too!):
- All-inclusive resort stays for spring break
- Honeymoons centered on rest and beauty
- Domestic getaways at Virtuoso hotels, complete with thoughtful amenities
- River cruises through Europe
- Christmas Market experiences that bring old-world charm to life
- Bucket-list journeys to Israel
Many of these ideas began over Thanksgiving conversations — family members sharing dreams, comparing notes, talking about “someday.” And 2026 is becoming the year when someday turns into a date on the calendar.
A Few Helpful Planning Notes for 2026
Real ID Requirements
TSA’s Real ID regulations are changing, so now is a good moment to ensure everyone’s documents are up to date.
It’s Not About Sales — It’s About Choice
Black Friday travel deals weren’t the highlight this year, and that’s perfectly okay. The families choosing their 2026 trips now are doing so for one simple reason:
Availability matters more than discounts.
The room you want, the itinerary that fits your family’s flow, the ship that feels right — those are the details that shape the heart of a trip. Early planning gives you the freedom to choose with confidence.
And yes — you can still place a trip under the tree.
Experience gifts are becoming a favorite tradition, and a 2026 vacation makes for a beautiful surprise wrapped in hope and joy.
A Gentle Invitation as You Plan Your 2026 Memories
If you looked at each other and said, “We should plan something for 2026″…
If you’re craving peace, connection, and a year filled with intention…
I’d be honored to help you map out the details with calm, joyful expertise.
Let’s take those holiday conversations and turn them into something beautiful — a journey your family will remember, savor, and carry with them long after the suitcases are unpacked.
When you’re ready, I’m here to guide every step with clarity and care.
