"Celebration vacation" trend -- and Disney moves into the market

from today's Walt Disney World news service (9/19):

Nationwide Survey by Ypartnership Reveals New Trend of 'Celebration Vacations'

"New York (September 18, 2008) – Vacations have always been a welcomed source of rest and relaxation, yet a new survey reveals they are increasingly motivated by events of high “personal significance.”

In a national survey of approximately 4,600 adults conducted by Ypartnership in June 2008, almost three-quarters (70%) revealed they have taken a vacation primarily to celebrate a special occasion. Adults less than 35 years of age (75%) were more likely to have taken such a vacation than adults over 55 years of age (69%).

“The motivations revealed in this fascinating piece of work suggest that vacations are increasingly viewed as an appropriate way to either recognize or reward the participants for some event of great significance in their lives,” said Peter C. Yesawich, whose marketing services firm authored the survey. “As such, we call them ‘Celebration Vacations’.”" ...

for the complete press release

STR newsfeed coverage

Disney announcement:
At-a-Glance: ‘Celebration Vacations’ Come to Life at Disney Parks

"WHAT: Beginning Jan. 1, 2009, Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will invite guests to celebrate their lives’ special moments – large and small – with family and friends at the place where dreams come true. New research shows that families are planning trips around life’s special moments, memories and milestones to celebrate with loved ones. It’s a newly identified, national trend dubbed by experts as “celebration vacations.”

WHEN: Beginning Jan. 1, 2009, for guests at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts." ....

for the complete press release