Carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the world’s most spectacular Carnival celebrations, rivaling Rio de Janeiro in its scale, color, and energy. Held each February in the capital of Spain’s Canary Islands, the festival dazzles with its parades, extravagant costumes, and infectious Latin rhythms. Highlights include the glamorous Queen Election Gala, the lively Coso Apoteosis parade, and the humorous Burial of the Sardine, which closes the festivities with satire and spectacle. For weeks, the city transforms into a nonstop party of music, dance, and creativity, blending Canarian tradition, Caribbean influence, and European flair. The Santa Cruz Carnival embodies pure joy and freedom under the island’s winter sun.

Πατρινό Καρναβάλι (Patras Carnival) is Greece’s largest and most exuberant carnival celebration, held annually in the coastal city of Patras from January through Clean Monday. Dating back over 180 years, the event combines street parades, masquerade balls, theatrical performances, and an explosion of music, dance, and color. Highlights include the massive Grand Parade, the playful Treasure Hunt, and the Burning of the Carnival King, which concludes the festivities in a blaze of fireworks. Rooted in both Venetian influence and Greek folk tradition, the Patras Carnival is a dazzling expression of creativity, humor, and Mediterranean spirit.

Þorrablót (Midwinter Festival) is an ancient Icelandic celebration held during Þorri, the traditional midwinter month of the Old Norse calendar, typically spanning late January to mid-February. Rooted in Viking-age customs, the festival honors endurance through the darkest part of the year with feasts, music, and storytelling. Central to the celebration is a traditional meal known as Þorramatur, featuring classic Icelandic fare such as fermented shark, smoked lamb, and pickled ram’s testicles, shared in the spirit of humor and togetherness. Blending heritage, community, and a touch of Nordic toughness, Þorrablót remains a living link between Iceland’s modern life and its ancient past.

Carnevale di Venezia (Venice Carnival) is one of the world’s most elegant and iconic Carnival celebrations, held each February in the enchanting city of Venice, Italy. Dating back to the 12th century, the festival transforms the city into a living theatre of masked balls, costume parades, and open-air performances in its historic piazzas and palaces. The streets and canals fill with revelers wearing ornate masks and Baroque costumes, evoking the mystery and splendor of Venice’s Golden Age. Highlights include the Flight of the Angel from St. Mark’s Bell Tower and numerous exclusive masquerade events. Blending art, tradition, and romantic allure, the Venice Carnival remains a timeless celebration of beauty and imagination.

Tegernseer Tal Montgolfiade (Tegernsee Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival) lifts winter mornings in Bad Wiessee, Germany, as dozens of hot-air balloons drift above Lake Tegernsee and the snow-dusted Alps in late January and early February. Watch launches from the lakeside promenade, then stay for the signature Ballonglühen (balloon glow)—tethered balloons pulsing with flame and music after dark—or book a scenic passenger flight for a bird’s-eye view.

Carnevale di Viareggio (Viareggio Carnival) electrifies Viareggio, Italy on the weekends leading up to Lent (typically from late January into early March), when the seaside Lungomare/La Passeggiata becomes a parade ring for colossal papier-mâché allegorical floats—razor-sharp political satire on wheels—plus masked parties, marching bands, and the iconic mascot Burlamacco. Stay for the signature fireworks finale and the full-throttle carnival buzz along the beach.

La Endiablada (The Brotherhood of the Devils) is a thunderous faith-and-folklore celebration in Almonacid del Marquesado, Spain, held each February 2–3 to honor la Virgen de la Candelaria (Candlemas) and San Blas (Saint Blaise). Men dressed as diablos—in bright overalls and red mitre-style hats—strap on heavy cencerros (cowbells) and dance, jump, and escort the saints in street processions, with ritual stops such as the cemetery. The nonstop clanging turns the village into an unforgettable winter spectacle.

Festa di Sant'Agata (Feast of Saint Agatha) honors the patron saint and 3rd-century martyr of Catania, Italy, each February 3–5, when a “white river” of devotees in the sacco escorts her relics on the silver fercolo (la Vara) through Via Etnea behind towering Candelore candle-floats. Expect dawn Masses, candle offerings, bands and booming fireworks, plus ritual sweets like minne di Sant’Agata and green almond olivette between processions.

Vetrarhátíð í Reykjavík (Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavík) brightens Reykjavík, Iceland each first weekend of February, celebrating midwinter and the return of light after the darkest months. The citywide programme revolves around three signature pillars: Safnanótt (Museum Night) with late-opening museums and pop-up performances, Sundlauganótt (Pool Night) at steamy geothermal pools, and the glowing Ljósaslóð (Light Trail) of light-art installations that illuminate streets and landmark buildings. Most events are free and family-friendly, ideal for easy downtown wandering.

The 2026 Winter Olympics, officially known as the XXV Olympic Winter Games, are scheduled to take place from February 6 to 22, 2026, in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy. This marks the first time the Winter Games will be co-hosted by multiple cities, with Milan primarily hosting ice events and Cortina d'Ampezzo, which previously hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics, hosting the remaining events.

White Turf St. Moritz celebrates horse racing on snow and the winter social season in St. Moritz, Switzerland, when Lake St. Moritz freezes into a glittering track each February (three Sundays). The program pairs fast gallop and trotting races with the event’s signature skijoring, where a skier is towed behind a thoroughbred for a heart-stopping sprint. Between heats, expect alpine glamour—champagne terraces, gourmet tents, and pop-up music and art—all framed by snow-capped Engadine peaks.

Kurentovanje (Kurent Festival) is Slovenia’s most famous Carnival celebration, held each February in the historic town of Ptuj. Rooted in pre-Christian traditions, the festival centers on the figure of the Kurent, a shaggy, masked character wearing sheepskin garments, bells, and feathers, who dances and makes noise to chase away winter and welcome spring. The celebration includes parades, folk performances, music, and costume contests, drawing thousands of visitors from across Europe. Declared part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, Kurentovanje blends ancient ritual, folk art, and joyful chaos, making it one of Central Europe’s most distinctive and unforgettable Carnival festivals.

Entrudo de Lisboa (Lisbon Carnival) is a lively and colorful pre-Lenten celebration that fills Portugal’s capital with music, parades, and street parties each February. Rooted in Portugal’s centuries-old Entrudo traditions, which blend Catholic, pagan, and folk customs, Lisbon’s version mixes classic Carnival revelry with modern flair. Neighborhoods like Bairro Alto, Alfama, and Belém host vibrant costume parades, samba-inspired rhythms, and spontaneous street dancing, while local bakeries serve festive treats such as malassadas and filhós. Blending heritage, creativity, and Lisbon’s sunny spirit, the Lisbon Carnival offers a joyful, distinctly Portuguese twist on the global Carnival season.

The Carnaval de Nice is one of the world’s oldest and most spectacular pre-Lenten festivals, transforming the French Riviera into a riot of color, music, and street theater every February. With its massive flower battles (batailles de fleurs), towering papier-mâché floats, and dazzling night parades, the carnival combines Mediterranean flair with a touch of absurdity. Set against the backdrop of the Promenade des Anglais and the sparkling Baie des Anges, it’s a joyful explosion of creativity and tradition that captures the playful soul of Nice.

Carnaval de Sitges is one of Spain’s most vibrant and flamboyant Carnival celebrations, held each February in the seaside town of Sitges, near Barcelona. Famous for its dazzling costumes, parades, and inclusive atmosphere, the festival blends traditional Catalan Carnival customs with the town’s renowned LGBTQ+ pride and artistic flair. Highlights include the Arrival of the King of Carnestoltes, the extravagant Debauchery Parade (Rua de la Disbauxa), and the dazzling Extermination Parade (Rua de l’Extermini) before Ash Wednesday. With its mix of music, dance, and colorful irreverence, the Sitges Carnival is a dazzling fusion of freedom, creativity, and Mediterranean joy.

Kölner Karneval (Cologne Carnival) is Germany’s most famous and exuberant Carnival celebration, transforming the city into a week-long street party of music, costumes, and revelry. While the Carnival season officially begins on November 11th, the main festivities take place from 12–18 February 2026, culminating in the spectacular Rosenmontag parade. Throughout the week, Cologne bursts with parades, masked balls, and spontaneous street celebrations, echoing with the joyful cry of “Kölle Alaaf!”. Blending tradition, humor, and Rhineland spirit, the Cologne Carnival is a vibrant expression of freedom, creativity, and community that defines the city’s cultural soul.

Carnaval de Barcelona is a colorful and exuberant pre-Lenten celebration that takes over the Catalan capital each February, blending centuries-old tradition with contemporary creativity. The festivities begin with the arrival of King Carnestoltes, the jovial ruler of mischief, whose proclamation launches a week of parades, costume parties, and street performances across the city. Highlights include the lively Grand Parade (Rua de la Taronjada)—where orange confetti recalls medieval battles with oranges—and neighborhood celebrations throughout Ciutat Vella and Gràcia. Concluding with the symbolic Burial of the Sardine, the Barcelona Carnival combines humor, music, and Mediterranean flair in one of Spain’s most joyful winter festivals.

Carnaval de Cádiz is one of Spain’s most famous and spirited Carnival celebrations, held each February in the Andalusian port city of Cádiz. Renowned for its sharp satire, humor, and music, the festival fills the city’s plazas and narrow streets with costumed groups called chirigotas, comparsas, and choirs, who perform witty songs that poke fun at politics and everyday life. The festivities include parades, street parties, and the prestigious COAC competition in the Gran Teatro Falla, where musical ensembles showcase their creativity. Blending Andalusian flair, theatricality, and irreverent wit, the Cádiz Carnival is a joyous explosion of sound, color, and laughter that embodies Spain’s Carnival spirit.

List í ljósi (Art in the Light) is a mesmerizing winter art and light festival held each February in the fjordside town of Seyðisfjörður, Iceland. For two nights, the town transforms into a glowing outdoor gallery where artists present light installations, video projections, and interactive works that illuminate the snowy landscape and surrounding mountains. The event celebrates creativity, community, and the return of light after the long Arctic darkness, drawing visitors from across Iceland and beyond. Blending art, nature, and the region’s distinct sense of isolation and wonder, Art in the Light is one of Iceland’s most intimate and atmospheric cultural experiences.

Carnaval de Madrid (Madrid Carnival) is a lively and creative pre-Lenten celebration that fills Spain’s capital with music, costumes, and colorful parades each February. Rooted in the city’s 16th-century traditions and revived in modern times, the festival features the spectacular Grand Parade, costume contests, and the playful Burial of the Sardine ceremony, which symbolically ends the revelry before Lent. Neighborhoods like Retiro and Matadero Madrid host open-air performances, concerts, and family-friendly events, showcasing the city’s blend of heritage and modern culture. Combining humor, pageantry, and urban energy, the Madrid Carnival captures the capital’s spirited approach to celebration and renewal.

Corso Fleuri de Bormes-les-Mimosas (Flower Parade, Bormes-les-Mimosas) is one of the Côte d’Azur’s most spectacular floral festivals, held each February in the picturesque hilltop village of Bormes-les-Mimosas. Celebrating the mimosa bloom, a symbol of the French Riviera’s early spring, the event features a magnificent parade of floats decorated with thousands of fresh mimosa blossoms and other vibrant flowers. Accompanied by marching bands, street performers, and a lively crowd, the procession fills the village with color, fragrance, and Mediterranean sunshine. Blending Provençal tradition, artistry, and natural beauty, the Corso Fleuri marks one of southern France’s most joyful heralds of spring.

Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival, Menton) is one of the French Riviera’s most colorful and unique winter festivals, held each February in the seaside town of Menton, near the Italian border. Celebrating the region’s famed lemons and oranges, the event transforms the city into a citrus wonderland featuring spectacular parades, giant sculptures, and art installations made entirely from fruit. Themed each year, the festival also includes nighttime illuminations, music, and the dazzling Golden Fruit Parade. Blending Mediterranean sunshine, artistic creativity, and Provençal tradition, the Lemon Festival in Menton is a vibrant celebration of color, scent, and imagination.

Caretos de Podence is a vibrant carnival tradition from the village of Podence in northern Portugal, recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage. Each February during Entrudo (Carnival), young men called caretos storm the streets dressed in wild red, green, and yellow woolen costumes, wearing mischievous masks and clanging cowbells. Their playful antics—chasing locals, dancing, and stirring up noisy fun—symbolize fertility and the chaotic energy of spring’s arrival. Blending pagan roots with carnival spirit, the Caretos de Podence is one of Portugal’s most colorful and unique folk celebrations.

The La Battaglia delle Arance (Battle of the Oranges) is a lively, centuries-old festival held in Ivrea, a town in northern Italy. As part of the town’s Carnival celebrations, it features thousands of participants engaging in a massive orange-throwing battle, symbolizing the town's historic rebellion against a tyrannical ruler. Teams on foot represent rebellious townspeople, while those in carts represent the oppressive forces. The event is both a colorful spectacle and a symbol of freedom, with streets covered in orange pulp and participants wearing red hats to signify their involvement. It’s one of Italy’s most unique and energetic festivals, blending history, tradition, and fun.

Carnaval de Binche is Belgium’s most famous pre-Lenten celebration, recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Centered in the town of Binche, the three-day festival reaches its peak on Shrove Tuesday, when the iconic Gilles—men dressed in ornate costumes, wax masks, and wooden clogs—parade through the streets. They throw oranges into the crowds as symbols of good luck, accompanied by the sounds of drums, brass bands, and exuberant dancing. With its mix of pageantry, ritual, and community spirit, the Carnival of Binche is one of Europe’s most extraordinary and historic carnival traditions.

Jorvik Viking Festival is Europe’s largest Viking-themed heritage event, held each February in the historic city of York, England, once known as Jorvik during the Viking Age. The week-long festival brings history to life through battle reenactments, living history encampments, archaeology talks, and family workshops, all celebrating the city’s Norse past. Highlights include the dramatic Festival of Fire, where warriors clash beneath flaming torches, and the grand parade of Vikings through York’s medieval streets. Blending education, spectacle, and community spirit, the Jorvik Viking Festival offers an unforgettable journey into Britain’s Viking heritage.

London Fashion Week is London’s twice-yearly showcase of British fashion creativity in London, United Kingdom, held each February and September as designers unveil new collections through catwalk shows, presentations, and buzz-worthy industry events curated by the British Fashion Council. Expect a citywide mix of headline runways and emerging talent, with showrooms, talks, and pop-up experiences fueling the energy beyond the venues—plus street-style spotting around the central show spaces that turns the city itself into part of the spectacle.

ANIMA International Animation Film Festival, Brussels is Belgium’s flagship celebration of animation in all its forms, bringing an international lineup of short films, feature films, and family screenings to the city each late February to early March. Beyond the cinema program, ANIMA is known for its welcoming, public-facing atmosphere—pairing premieres with talks, masterclasses, and special events, alongside Futuranima days that connect creators and industry professionals. Blending playful creativity with serious craft, the festival turns Brussels into a lively meeting point for anyone passionate about animated storytelling.

Basler Fasnacht (Basel Carnival) is Switzerland’s largest and most famous Carnival celebration, recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Held annually on the Monday after Ash Wednesday, the festival begins in darkness at 4:00 a.m. with the magical Morgenstreich, when the city lights are extinguished and illuminated lanterns parade through the streets to the sound of piccolos and drums. For three days, Basel transforms into a whirlwind of masked cliques, satirical floats, marching bands, and confetti-covered streets, all infused with sharp political humor and artistic flair. Blending tradition, music, and irreverent wit, the Basel Fasnacht is a captivating celebration of creativity and local pride—often called “the three most beautiful days of the year.”

Pragueshorts Film Festival is a competitive celebration of international and Czech short films held in Prague, Czech Republic, curated by the team behind the Karlovy Vary festival and designed to spotlight the year’s most inventive storytelling in short form through premieres, competitions, and special thematic programs, often complemented by Q&As and industry-focused events; in 2026, the festival runs 25 February–1 March 2026 in Prague cinemas, followed by an online extension on KVIFF.TV from 1–22 March 2026.

Engadin Skimarathon is Switzerland’s largest cross-country skiing event and one of the world’s premier mass-participation ski races, held each March in the Engadin Valley. Since 1969, thousands of skiers from over 60 nations have taken part in the 42-kilometer course from Maloja to S-chanf, gliding across frozen lakes, snowy forests, and picturesque alpine villages. The event also includes shorter races and a women’s marathon, welcoming participants of all levels. With its mix of competition, camaraderie, and breathtaking scenery, the Engadin Ski Marathon captures the spirit of endurance and elegance that defines winter sports in the Swiss Alps.

The Paris-Nice is an annual professional cycling race held in France, often referred to as "The Race to the Sun." It is one of the most prestigious stage races in the cycling calendar, covering a variety of terrain from the flat roads near Paris to the challenging climbs of the Alps and the Côte d'Azur. The race lasts for about seven days and features both sprinter-friendly stages and mountain challenges. Paris-Nice attracts top cyclists from around the world, offering a mix of fast-paced sprints and strategic climbs, making it a crucial event leading up to the Tour de France. The race is celebrated for its historic significance and the scenic beauty of its route.

One World International Human Rights Film Festival is a leading human-rights documentary festival held each March in Prague, Czech Republic, bringing together an international selection of films on social, political, environmental, and humanitarian themes, paired with in-depth Q&As and expert discussions that extend the conversation beyond the screen. Organized by the Czech NGO People in Need, the festival is widely described as the world’s largest event of its kind and, after its Prague run, it continues as a traveling program in dozens of cities across the Czech Republic (and sometimes beyond).

St. Patrick's Day in Dublin is a grand celebration of Irish culture, held annually on March 17th to honor St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. The day is marked by a large parade through the city, featuring vibrant floats, marching bands, dancers, and performers, celebrating Irish heritage and traditions. The city comes alive with live music, street performances, and parties, while pubs and restaurants serve traditional Irish food and drinks, especially Guinness. Dublin’s St. Patrick's Day festivities attract thousands of visitors from around the world, creating an exciting and lively atmosphere filled with pride and cultural celebration.

Laetare de Stavelot is a lively spring carnival celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent in the Belgian town of Stavelot. Famous for its mischievous characters known as Blancs-Moussis—cloaked figures dressed in white with long red noses—the festival fills the streets with playful antics, confetti, and laughter. The Blancs-Moussis parade through town, throwing confetti, waving inflated pig bladders, and playfully teasing the crowds. With its mix of humor, tradition, and community joy, the Laetare Carnival of Stavelot is one of Belgium’s most unique and entertaining folk celebrations.

Las Fallas is an annual festival held in Valencia, Spain, celebrating the arrival of spring. The event is famous for its massive puppets and figurines made of papier-mâché, known as fallas, which are paraded through the streets and later burned in a spectacular display of fireworks. Las Fallas includes music, dancing, street parties, and traditional foods, making it a vibrant celebration of Valencian culture. The festival also features fireworks displays, artistic performances, and cultural events, drawing locals and tourists alike to experience the energy and excitement of one of Spain's most iconic celebrations.

Festival svjetla Zagreb (Festival of Lights Zagreb) brings a magical glow to Croatia’s capital each March, when streets, squares, and landmarks across the city are transformed into radiant works of projection art, light installations, and interactive displays. From the historic Upper Town to the lively city center, artists use light to reimagine Zagreb’s architecture and public spaces, creating an enchanting nighttime journey for visitors. With its mix of technology, creativity, and urban atmosphere, the Festival of Lights Zagreb has quickly become a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar and a dazzling welcome to spring.

Festival Internacional de Chocolate de Óbidos (Óbidos International Chocolate Festival) transforms the medieval Portuguese town of Óbidos into a paradise for chocolate lovers each spring, typically from March to April. The cobbled streets and castle walls host dazzling chocolate sculptures, pastry competitions, live demonstrations, and workshops led by master chocolatiers. Visitors can taste an incredible range of artisanal chocolates, desserts, and drinks, while children enjoy interactive activities in the “Kids’ Chocolate House.” Blending culinary creativity, art, and the historic charm of Óbidos, the International Chocolate Festival is one of Portugal’s sweetest and most popular gourmet events.

Osterfestspiele (Salzburg Easter Festival) is an exclusive classical music festival founded in 1967 by the legendary conductor Herbert von Karajan, held each spring in Salzburg, Austria. Over the Easter period, the festival presents world-class opera productions, symphonic concerts, and chamber music, often featuring the renowned Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra alongside celebrated soloists. Known for its artistic excellence and intimate scale, the Osterfestspiele offers a rare opportunity to experience top-tier performances in Salzburg’s historic venues, combining spiritual reflection with musical brilliance.

Thüringer Bachwochen (Thuringian Bach Weeks) is Germany’s oldest and most prestigious Bach festival, held each spring across the Thuringia region, where Johann Sebastian Bach spent much of his life. Concerts take place in historic churches, castles, and towns closely linked to the composer, including Weimar, Eisenach, and Arnstadt. The festival brings together world-class orchestras, choirs, and soloists to perform Bach’s masterpieces alongside contemporary interpretations that keep his legacy alive. Blending musical excellence, historical resonance, and regional pride, the Thuringian Bach Weeks offer an unforgettable journey through the landscapes and sounds that shaped one of the world’s greatest composers.

The Amsterdam Tulip Festival is an annual event held in Amsterdam, celebrating the city’s iconic tulip season. During the festival, millions of tulips bloom across the city, with vibrant displays in public parks, gardens, streets, and various landmarks. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, photography exhibitions, and events focused on the history and cultivation of tulips in the Netherlands. The festival highlights the beauty of these flowers and showcases Amsterdam’s role as a hub of Dutch horticultural tradition.

Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFFF) is Belgium’s flagship genre cinema event, running each spring with a high-energy program of horror, thriller, science fiction, and fantasy screenings, packed with premieres, late-night cult slots, and a famously vocal audience atmosphere. Founded in 1983, the festival pairs its film selection with a broader fan experience—think Q&As, masterclasses, themed happenings, and a festival “village” vibe—typically hosted at Brussels Expo (Palais 10), making it as much a celebration of community as it is a showcase for fantastic cinema.

The Edinburgh Science Festival is an annual event held in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is one of the largest science festivals in Europe, offering a diverse range of interactive exhibits, workshops, talks, and performances aimed at engaging people of all ages with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The festival features events at various venues across the city, including museums, theaters, and outdoor spaces. It highlights innovation, discovery, and the importance of science in daily life, while fostering curiosity and learning in a fun, accessible way. The Edinburgh Science Festival attracts a wide audience, from families to professionals, and is a celebration of scientific exploration and creativity.

Das Nürnberger Volksfest (Nuremberg Folk Festival) is an annual folk festival held in Nuremberg, Germany. It is one of the largest and most traditional beer festivals in the country, spanning several days and featuring a mix of beer tents, carnival rides, games, and live music. In addition to the beer-focused events, Das Nürnberger Volksfest also includes traditional Bavarian food, parades, and folk performances, creating a festive and lively atmosphere. The event is a celebration of Bavarian culture, combining hospitality, heritage, and fun in the heart of Nuremberg.

International Pan Celtic Festival is a vibrant celebration of Celtic culture, language, and music, held each spring in Ireland, with recent editions hosted in Carlow. The festival brings together participants from the six Celtic nations—Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall, and the Isle of Man—for a week of concerts, dance, storytelling, and cultural exchanges. Highlights include the Pan Celtic Song Contest, colorful parades, and lively sessions that fill the town with the sounds of harps, fiddles, and pipes. Blending shared heritage, modern creativity, and cross-cultural friendship, the International Pan Celtic Festival celebrates the living spirit of the Celtic world.

Bloemencorso (Flower Parade) is one of the Netherlands’ most iconic floral traditions, held each spring in several towns across the country, most famously between Noordwijk and Haarlem during the Bollenstreek Bloemencorso. The parade features spectacular floats, cars, and bicycles elaborately decorated with tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other spring blooms, celebrating the beauty of the Dutch flower-growing regions. Accompanied by marching bands, street performers, and cheering crowds, the event transforms the bulb fields and towns into a moving sea of color and fragrance. Blending horticultural artistry, regional pride, and springtime joy, the Flower Parade is a dazzling tribute to the Netherlands’ world-famous floral heritage.

Sechseläuten is an annual spring festival held in Zurich, Switzerland, celebrating the arrival of spring. The festival features a lively mix of traditional events, including parades, live music, folk dances, and local food and drink. Carnival rides, games, and attractions are set up for all ages, creating a festive atmosphere in the heart of Zurich. A key highlight of the festival is the dramatic burning of a snowman, known as Böögg, which symbolizes the end of winter and the welcoming of spring.

Münchner Frühlingsfest (Munich Spring Festival) is an annual spring festival held in Munich, Germany. The event celebrates the arrival of spring with a vibrant mix of beer tents, carnival rides, games, and live music. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere with attractions for all ages, including traditional Bavarian food, beer, and cultural performances.

Festival International des Jardins de Chaumont-sur-Loire (International Garden Festival, Chaumont-sur-Loire) is a world-renowned landscape and design exhibition held annually from late April to early November in the enchanting grounds of the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire, in France’s Loire Valley. Since 1992, the festival has invited leading garden designers, architects, and artists to create more than 20 themed gardens, each exploring innovation, ecology, and art through living design. Visitors wander through a sensory world of colors, textures, and ideas, surrounded by the estate’s château and parklands. Blending creativity, environmental awareness, and French elegance, the International Garden Festival is a must-see for lovers of nature and contemporary design.

The Feria de Abril (April Fair) in Seville, Spain, is a week-long celebration of Andalusian culture, held two weeks after Easter. The festival transforms the fairgrounds into a dazzling scene of colorful "casetas" (private tents), where locals gather to enjoy flamenco music and dancing, traditional Sevillanas, and delicious food and drinks, including tapas and sherry wine. By day, parades of horse-drawn carriages and riders in traditional attire fill the streets, while at night, the fairgrounds come alive with music, lights, and festivities. One of Spain’s most famous festivals, the Feria captures the joyful spirit of Seville.

Sagra del Carciofo di Chiusure (Artichoke Festival) is a beloved spring food festival held each April in the hilltop village of Chiusure, near Asciano in Tuscany’s Crete Senesi. Dedicated to the region’s prized wild artichokes, the event celebrates Tuscan rural cuisine with open-air markets, food stalls, and local wines, all set against stunning views of the rolling countryside. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as fried artichokes, bruschette, and pasta specialties, while enjoying live music, folk performances, and a friendly village atmosphere. Blending flavor, landscape, and tradition, the Artichoke Festival offers an authentic taste of Tuscany’s springtime charm.

Bratislavské mestské dni (Bratislava May Festival) is a joyful spring celebration held each May in Slovakia’s capital, marking the symbolic opening of the city to its residents and visitors. The festival features a rich program of concerts, folk performances, open-air markets, and guided tours, with museums, galleries, and city landmarks offering free entry. Parades, street artists, and craft fairs fill the historic center with color and energy, while local food and wine add a festive touch. Blending tradition, community, and urban culture, the Bratislava May Festival captures the welcoming spirit and creative vibrancy of the Slovak capital in springtime.

United Islands of Prague (often branded simply as United Islands) turns the Vltava River islands into a roaming showcase of new Czech and European music in Prague, Czech Republic, held each late April and early May. The heart of the action is the open-air stages on Štvanice Island (and nearby riverbanks), complemented by intimate club nights across the city, so you can hop from indie and rock to hip-hop and electronic discoveries—easy island-hopping with a laid-back springtime buzz.

The Festa da Flor (Madeira Flower Festival) is a vibrant annual celebration held in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, showcasing the island’s stunning floral beauty. The festival features elaborate flower parades, intricate flower carpets, and the Wall of Hope, where children place flowers as a symbol of peace. Highlights include the Allegorical Flower Parade, with floats covered in colorful blooms, traditional folk performances, and a lively market selling floral arrangements and regional crafts. The event transforms Madeira into a fragrant, picturesque wonderland, celebrating the island’s rich botanical heritage and welcoming the arrival of spring.

The Fête du Pain (Festival of Bread) is an annual celebration of French baking traditions, held in May across France, with the main event taking place in Paris near Notre-Dame Cathedral. The festival highlights the craftsmanship of artisan bakers, featuring live demonstrations, baking workshops, and competitions for the best baguette and croissant. Visitors can taste freshly baked French traditional bread, learn about the importance of authentic baking techniques, and meet master bakers. Established in 1996, the festival coincides with Saint Honoré’s Day, the patron saint of bakers, and honors France’s rich bread-making heritage.

Journées Romaines de Nîmes (Roman Days of Nîmes) is a spectacular historical reenactment festival held each spring in the southern French city of Nîmes, celebrating its rich Roman heritage. Centered around the city’s magnificent Arena of Nîmes, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, the festival features gladiator battles, military parades, theatrical performances, and living-history camps that bring antiquity vividly to life. Participants in authentic costumes recreate daily life from ancient Rome, while visitors enjoy workshops, markets, and family activities throughout the city. Blending education, spectacle, and archaeological grandeur, the Roman Days of Nîmes transport guests back two millennia to the glory of the Roman Empire.

Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival is one of Ireland’s most unique summer celebrations, blending culinary delights with vintage rock ’n’ roll energy in the charming town of Enniscorthy, County Wexford. Held each August Bank Holiday weekend, the festival features food markets, cookery demos, artisan tastings, and family activities, alongside live rockabilly music, retro cars, and lively dance events. Streets come alive with the rhythm of the 1950s as visitors enjoy delicious local produce and nostalgic entertainment. Combining Irish hospitality, culinary creativity, and retro flair, the Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival offers a flavorful, feel-good experience for all ages.

Rochester Sweeps Festival (Rochester Sweeps Festival, Kent) is one of England’s most colorful May Day celebrations, reviving the centuries-old tradition of chimney sweeps welcoming the arrival of spring. Held each early May in the historic town of Rochester, the festival fills the streets with Morris dancers, folk musicians, giant puppets, and performers in bright green and black paint. The event opens with the traditional awakening of Jack-in-the-Green, a leafy spirit symbolizing renewal, followed by lively parades and music across the city’s medieval backdrop. Blending pagan folklore, English folk culture, and joyous revelry, the Rochester Sweeps Festival is a vibrant celebration of spring’s rebirth.

Calendimaggio di Assisi (May Day Festival of Assisi) is a spectacular medieval spring festival held each May in the hilltop town of Assisi, Italy, celebrating the return of good weather and the renewal of life. The town divides into two rival districts—Parte de Sopra and Parte de Sotto—which compete in a vibrant display of pageantry, music, costume, and theatrical performances that recreate the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Highlights include processions by torchlight, flag-throwers, and choral contests filling the town’s piazzas with energy and color. Blending history, community pride, and springtime joy, the Calendimaggio di Assisi is one of Italy’s most enchanting cultural traditions.

Feria Medieval de Ibiza (Ibiza Medieval Fair) is a vibrant historical festival held each May in the Dalt Vila, Ibiza’s UNESCO-listed old town, transforming its cobbled streets into a living medieval marketplace. The event celebrates the island’s rich multicultural past—from Christian to Muslim and Jewish influences—with craft stalls, costumed performers, jugglers, falconers, and street musicians filling the ancient ramparts. Visitors can taste traditional foods, watch artisan demonstrations, and wander through a world of color and history surrounded by the island’s breathtaking views. Blending heritage, spectacle, and Mediterranean charm, the Ibiza Medieval Fair offers a magical journey back to the Middle Ages.

Fiestas de San Isidro (Festival of San Isidro, Madrid) is the Spanish capital’s most iconic spring celebration, held each May in honor of San Isidro Labrador, Madrid’s patron saint. The city comes alive with open-air concerts, processions, dance, and traditional attire, as locals gather at Pradera de San Isidro Park to picnic, sing, and sip limonada (a local wine-and-lemon drink). Highlights include chulapo and chulapa costumes, folk music, and the pilgrimage to the saint’s shrine. Blending religious devotion, popular culture, and Madrileño pride, the Fiestas de San Isidro capture the joyful spirit of Madrid in full bloom.

Hafengeburtstag (Port Birthday) is an annual festival held in Hamburg, Germany, celebrating the anniversary of the city's port. The event features a variety of maritime activities, including boat parades, ship tours, and sailing exhibitions. With live music, street performances, and food stalls, the festival creates a festive atmosphere. The Hafengeburtstag showcases Hamburg’s maritime heritage, highlighting its role as a major shipping hub. It is a lively celebration of the city’s connection to the sea, offering both cultural and entertainment experiences for all ages.

The Venice Biennale is one of the world’s most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions, held every two years in Venice, Italy, since 1895. Showcasing cutting-edge works from international artists, the event spans multiple disciplines, including visual arts, architecture, cinema, dance, music, and theater. The Biennale features national pavilions in the Giardini and Arsenale, where countries present curated exhibitions reflecting current artistic trends and cultural themes. Renowned for pushing artistic boundaries, it attracts global attention from artists, curators, and art lovers, making Venice a hub of innovation and creativity during the event.

Feria del Caballo (Horse Fair) is an annual festival held in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. The event celebrates the region's rich equestrian heritage and flamenco culture, featuring horse exhibitions, dressage performances, and traditional Spanish horse riding. The festival also includes flamenco dancing, live music, and gastronomy, with food stalls offering local delicacies. Feria del Caballo is a lively celebration of Jerez's cultural traditions, attracting locals and tourists who enjoy the festive atmosphere, horse parades, and vibrant flamenco performances in one of Spain's most famous wine-producing regions.

Giro d’Italia (Tour of Italy) is one of the world’s most prestigious cycling races, held each May and forming part of the sport’s legendary Grand Tours alongside the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. First organized in 1909, the multi-stage race covers over 3,000 kilometers, tracing a spectacular route through Italy’s mountains, coastlines, and historic cities—and occasionally crossing into neighboring countries. Cyclists compete for the coveted Maglia Rosa (Pink Jersey), awarded to the overall leader. Blending endurance, strategy, and Italian passion, the Giro d’Italia is both a world-class sporting event and a breathtaking showcase of Italy’s landscapes and spirit.

Mezinárodní hudební festival Pražské jaro (Prague Spring International Music Festival) is a landmark classical music festival held each year in Prague, Czech Republic, bringing leading international orchestras, ensembles, and soloists to the city for a concentrated season of concerts and special projects; founded in 1946, it traditionally opens on May 12—the anniversary of composer Bedřich Smetana’s death—often with his cycle Má vlast (My Country) as a signature statement of Czech musical identity. In 2026, the festival runs from 12 May to 4 June 2026, and it also encompasses the respected Prague Spring International Music Competition, reinforcing its role as both a major performance showcase and a platform for emerging talent.

Fête de la Bretagne (Festival of Brittany) is a vibrant regional celebration held each May across the Brittany region of France, showcasing the area’s rich Celtic culture, music, and traditions. Over 1,000 events—from folk concerts and bagpipe parades to craft fairs, dance performances, and gastronomic festivals—take place in towns and villages throughout the region and even abroad. The festival honors Breton identity and creativity, uniting locals and visitors in a joyful expression of community spirit. Blending heritage, modern artistry, and Celtic pride, the Festival of Brittany is a living celebration of one of France’s most distinctive cultural regions.

Festa della Sensa (Feast of the Ascension) is one of Venice’s oldest and most symbolic festivals, celebrated each May to commemorate the city’s maritime heritage and its historic “marriage to the sea.” The highlight is the Sposalizio del Mare ceremony, in which the Mayor of Venice sails aboard the ornate Serenissima boat to cast a gold ring into the lagoon, symbolizing Venice’s eternal bond with the sea. The festival also features regattas, processions, and historical reenactments around St. Mark’s Basin and the Lido. Blending pageantry, tradition, and spiritual meaning, the Festa della Sensa beautifully captures Venice’s enduring relationship with the waters that define it.

Wiener Festwochen (Vienna Festival) is a six-week celebration of theater, music, and art that transforms Austria’s capital into a vibrant stage each May and June. Founded in 1951, the festival brings together international artists, avant-garde productions, and cutting-edge performances in venues ranging from grand theaters to open-air stages across Vienna. With its blend of classical tradition and contemporary experimentation, the Wiener Festwochen embodies the city’s cultural dynamism and remains one of Europe’s most prestigious multidisciplinary festivals.

Infiorata di Noto (Flower Festival of Noto) is a breathtaking art and flower festival held each May in the Baroque town of Noto, Sicily. Along Via Nicolaci, local artists create intricate floral mosaics using thousands of petals to form stunning designs inspired by an annual theme—ranging from mythology to contemporary art. The event transforms the street into a vibrant, perfumed carpet of color, drawing visitors from around the world. Accompanied by parades, music, and cultural exhibitions, the Infiorata di Noto beautifully blends artistry, nature, and Sicilian tradition, celebrating the island’s creativity in full bloom.

Bath Literature Festival turns the Georgian streets of Bath, United Kingdom into a citywide celebration of books, ideas, and the written word each May, drawing bestselling authors, journalists, historians, poets, and sharp-witted thinkers for talks, debates, readings, and book launches in theatres, halls, and atmospheric heritage venues across town. Expect easy-to-dip-into programming—writer Q&As, panel conversations, and occasional workshops—often kicking off with a lively, free “Party in the City” vibe that spills into Bath’s venues and bars.

International Chamber Music Festival is the eldest chamber music festival in Europe, founded in 1964, and staged each year in the atmospheric Old Town of Plovdiv, with concerts set in landmark architectural venues such as the Regional Ethnographic Museum and other historic sites. Typically running from mid-May to mid-June, the festival presents a focused series of chamber concerts and masterclasses, bringing together leading Bulgarian and international soloists and ensembles in a program that balances beloved classics with rarer discoveries. After a brief interruption in 2020, it continues as one of Bulgaria’s most enduring classical music forums—pairing artistic excellence with the unique ambience of Plovdiv’s heritage setting.

Roland Garros, also known as the French Open, is one of the four prestigious Grand Slam tennis tournaments, held annually in Paris, France. Played on clay courts at the Stade Roland Garros, it’s renowned for its challenging surface, which slows down the ball and demands exceptional endurance and strategy from players. The tournament features men’s and women’s singles and doubles, as well as mixed doubles and junior competitions. Taking place in late May to early June, Roland Garros attracts top tennis talent and passionate fans from around the world, offering thrilling matches and iconic moments in tennis history.

Paris Beer Festival is France’s leading celebration of craft brewing, held each May across the capital’s bars, breweries, and event spaces. Organized by Bière Parisienne, the festival showcases the creativity of French and international microbreweries through tastings, workshops, meet-the-brewer events, and a lively Grand Finale weekend featuring hundreds of beers on tap. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, bringing together beer enthusiasts, professionals, and newcomers to explore the growing world of artisanal brewing. Blending Parisian culture with craft innovation, the Paris Beer Festival is a must for anyone who loves good beer and good company.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the UK’s most prestigious horticultural exhibition, held each May in London, United Kingdom, in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and staged at this location since 1913, the show is famed for its headline Show Gardens, cutting-edge planting trends, new plant launches, and high-profile visitors, offering an unrivalled snapshot of the year’s best garden design and floral artistry. In 2026, the show runs 19–23 May 2026.

Karneval der Kulturen (Carnival of Cultures) is an annual cultural festival held in Berlin, Germany. The event celebrates cultural diversity with a vibrant parade featuring colorful costumes, music, dance, and performances from around the world. The festival includes street food, art exhibitions, workshops, and live music from various cultures, reflecting Berlin's multicultural spirit. Karneval der Kulturen attracts locals and tourists to enjoy the lively atmosphere, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of the city and promoting unity through diversity.

Bath Fringe Festival is a lively, multi-venue arts festival held in Bath, England, United Kingdom, turning the city into a late-spring cultural playground of theatre, comedy, music, spoken word, film, and pop-up performances across pubs, clubs, theatres, and public spaces; in 2026, it runs from 22 May to 7 June 2026 (17 days), with a deliberately open, “few rules” ethos that invites everything from intimate showcases to high-energy nights out, making it one of the most eclectic and community-driven highlights of Bath’s early-summer calendar.

Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend fills Brussels, Belgium each last weekend of May with free jazz concerts across the city centre, turning the Grand-Place, Place Sainte-Catherine, and Place de la Bourse into lively open-air stages. The weekend celebrates jazz in all its forms—swing, bebop, fusion, blues, soul—with pop-up sets in bars and cultural venues, plus a roaming Brass Parade that pulls crowds from square to square.

Prague Fringe Festival brings a punchy, English-language mix of theatre, comedy, cabaret, storytelling, and dance to Prague, Czech Republic, taking over the cobbled lanes of Malá Strana (Lesser Town) each late May. Across black-box stages, basement rooms, bars, and historic halls, international artists deliver compact, high-energy shows that are easy to hop between—then spill into post-show buzz in the “Fringe Zone” cafés. Come for bold new work, unexpected venues, and an intimate festival vibe in the heart of the city.

One Dance Festival is Bulgaria’s leading international contemporary dance and performance festival, staged annually in Plovdiv with a bold program of premieres and acclaimed productions from Bulgarian and international choreographers, alongside talks, workshops, and special events that turn the city into a meeting point for today’s dance scene. Formerly known as ONE DANCE WEEK (and earlier Sofia Dance Week), it has grown since 2008 into one of the Balkans’ key platforms for innovative movement and cross-genre performance, combining artistic ambition with an accessible, citywide festival atmosphere.

Mednarodni festival alpskega cvetja (International Wildflower Festival) is a charming eco-cultural celebration held each late May to early June in Bohinj, Slovenia, within the Triglav National Park. The festival honors the rich Alpine flora of the region through guided botanical walks, workshops, local food tastings, and art exhibitions inspired by nature. Visitors can join herbal tours, cheese-making demonstrations, and folk music events, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Bohinj and the surrounding mountains. Blending environmental awareness, traditional craftsmanship, and Alpine beauty, the International Wildflower Festival celebrates the harmony between people and nature in Slovenia’s most pristine valley.

Fleadh Nua (New Festival) is a vibrant celebration of Irish traditional music, song, and dance, held each May in the city of Ennis, County Clare—one of Ireland’s great musical heartlands. Founded in 1970, the festival has grown into a week-long gathering of sessions, concerts, céilís, and workshops, attracting musicians and enthusiasts from across Ireland and beyond. The streets and pubs of Ennis come alive with music from morning till night, capturing the warmth and spontaneity of Ireland’s living folk tradition. Blending heritage, community, and joyful creativity, Fleadh Nua celebrates the enduring heartbeat of Irish culture.

Listowel Writers’ Week is Ireland’s oldest and most esteemed literary festival, held each late May to early June in the charming town of Listowel, County Kerry. Founded in 1970, the festival brings together writers, poets, and readers from Ireland and around the world for readings, workshops, panel discussions, and awards ceremonies. The town’s pubs, theatres, and streets buzz with creativity as both emerging and established voices share their work in an atmosphere of warmth and curiosity. Blending literature, community, and conversation, Listowel Writers’ Week celebrates the written word in the heart of rural Ireland.

Les Fêtes Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc Festival) is a moving historical and patriotic celebration held each May in the city of Rouen, where Joan of Arc was tried and executed in 1431. The festival honors her legacy as a national heroine with medieval reenactments, costumed parades, concerts, and ceremonies at the city’s historic landmarks, including the Old Market Square and Joan of Arc Church. Blending faith, history, and pageantry, the event brings the Middle Ages vividly to life while paying tribute to Joan’s courage and enduring spirit. Deeply rooted in French heritage, the Joan of Arc Festival reflects Rouen’s pride in its place in France’s storied past.

Oslo Middelalderfestival (Oslo Medieval Festival) is a lively historical reenactment festival held each June in the grounds of the Akershus Fortress, celebrating Norway’s medieval heritage through music, crafts, and living history. The event features knight tournaments, archery contests, storytelling, and markets filled with artisans demonstrating traditional skills. Visitors of all ages can enjoy theatrical performances, authentic food, and costumed parades, immersing themselves in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Blending education, entertainment, and heritage, the Oslo Medieval Festival brings Norway’s distant past vividly to life in the heart of its capital.

Festa di San Giorgio (Feast of St. George) is a spectacular religious and cultural festival held each May in Ragusa Ibla, Sicily, honoring the town’s patron saint. Centered around the magnificent Baroque Cathedral of San Giorgio, the celebration features solemn processions, vibrant fireworks, and joyful music and dance that fill the winding streets of the old town. The highlight is the grand procession of the saint’s statue, carried through the illuminated streets amid cheers and confetti, blending devotion with celebration. Rich in faith, community spirit, and Sicilian tradition, the Feast of St. George is one of southern Italy’s most heartfelt and visually stunning patronal festivals.

Bath International Music Festival brings a week of classical and choral concerts to Bath, United Kingdom, from late May into early June, celebrating the city’s love of live performance in its most atmospheric spaces. Expect virtuoso soloists, string quartets, and visiting orchestras in historic churches and Georgian halls, where intimate acoustics make even big works feel close-up. Between headline evenings, look for lunchtime recitals and community moments that let you hop venues and hear Bath’s UNESCO streets soundtrack themselves.

Ducasse de Mons (also known as the Doudou Festival) is a traditional and vibrant annual festival held in Mons, Belgium. The event celebrates the town’s rich cultural and religious heritage, featuring a series of processions, performances, and historical reenactments. The highlight of the festival is the Lumeçon, a dramatic battle between Saint George and a dragon, which takes place in the main square. The festival is recognized as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage event and is a lively celebration filled with music, parades, and community gatherings, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the unique traditions of Mons.

The Festas de Lisboa (Festivals of Lisbon) is an annual celebration held throughout the city of Lisbon, Portugal, in honor of Saint Anthony, the city's patron saint. Celebrated in June, the festival is famous for its lively street parties, parades, traditional music, and dancing, particularly the "bailes populares" (popular dances). One of the highlights is the Marchas Populares, where neighborhoods compete with colorful processions and performances. The streets of Lisbon are adorned with decorations, and visitors can enjoy local food, such as grilled sardines and traditional drinks. The Festas de Lisboa is a vibrant and joyful celebration of Lisbon's culture, community spirit, and history.

Distortion is a citywide celebration of club culture, street life, and new dance music in Copenhagen, Denmark, staged each early June as late-afternoon street parties take over neighbourhoods like Nørrebro and Vesterbro, then hand off to after-dark Distortion Club nights in the city’s venues. The week crescendos with Distortion Ø on Refshaleøen, an industrial harbour island reimagined as a multi-stage electronic playground—expect pop-up art, street food, and a contagious anything-goes atmosphere.

Nestinarstvo (Fire-Dancing Ritual) is a centuries-old feast in Bulgari, Bulgaria, held each June 3–4 to honour Saints Constantine and Helena and seek the village’s well-being and fertility. By day, sacred icons are carried in procession to a holy spring for blessings; by night, initiated nestinari enter a trance to the beat of drum and gaida (bagpipes) and dance barefoot across glowing embers, turning the village square into a smoke-lit theatre of faith and folklore.

The Holland Festival is an annual international arts festival held in Amsterdam, Netherlands. It is one of the country's most prestigious cultural events, featuring a wide range of performances in theater, dance, music, opera, and multimedia art. The festival attracts renowned artists and performers from around the world, showcasing both contemporary works and classic productions. With performances in various venues across the city, the Holland Festival is a celebration of global creativity and artistic innovation, offering a unique opportunity for audiences to experience cutting-edge cultural performances in one of Europe's most vibrant cities.

Svátky písní Olomouc (Festival of Songs Olomouc) fills Olomouc, Czech Republic each first week of June with a citywide celebration of choral singing and vocal art, drawing amateur choirs from around the world into the UNESCO-listed historic center. The headline draw is Mundi Cantant, an international competition where ensembles perform across styles—from sacred and folklore to popular/jazz and contemporary—culminating in an Absolute Winner finale, alongside public concerts that let you sample soaring harmonies in elegant halls and churches.

NorthSide Festival is Aarhus’s three-day celebration of contemporary live music in Aarhus, Denmark, staged in the leafy Eskelunden park each early June. It pairs big-name headliners with new discoveries across multiple stages, while doubling down on its sustainability-first ethos—think plant-based food, low-waste initiatives, and greener power choices—so the festival feels as forward-thinking as it is fun. Expect an easy city-festival vibe: bike-friendly access, riverside hangouts, and a crowd that skews music-curious.

Festival Artisti di Strada (Street Artists Festival) is a joyful open-air celebration of street art and performance, held each July in the lakeside town of Ascona, Switzerland. For three days, the picturesque streets and piazzas along Lake Maggiore fill with jugglers, acrobats, musicians, magicians, and clowns from around the world. The town becomes a living stage, where art, laughter, and spontaneity meet the charm of the Swiss-Italian Riviera. Blending Mediterranean flair, creativity, and community spirit, the Street Artists Festival in Ascona is a highlight of Ticino’s summer, enchanting visitors of all ages with its playful energy and seaside atmosphere.

Фестивал на розата (Rose Festival) is Bulgaria’s most fragrant celebration, held each June in the Valley of the Roses, the world’s leading producer of rose oil. Locals in traditional costumes gather at dawn to harvest delicate Damask roses, while visitors join in lively parades, folk performances, and rose-picking rituals. The festival also showcases rose-based treasures—from perfumes and liqueurs to sweets and crafts—highlighting the flower’s deep cultural and economic importance. Blending color, scent, and centuries-old tradition, the Rose Festival of Kazanlak is a joyful tribute to Bulgaria’s national bloom.

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious and iconic races in Formula 1, held annually on the tight, narrow streets of Monte Carlo. Known for its glamorous setting and challenging circuit with sharp corners and limited overtaking, the race emphasizes qualifying as starting positions are crucial. It has a rich history with legendary drivers, and winning it is considered a significant achievement. The event also attracts celebrities and royals, making it a highlight of the F1 season.

Tallinna Vanalinna Päevad (Tallinn Old Town Days) is the Estonian capital’s largest and oldest cultural festival, held each early summer to celebrate the charm and heritage of Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town. For several days, the cobblestone streets come alive with open-air concerts, street theater, art exhibitions, and folk performances, while locals dress in medieval costumes and artisans showcase traditional crafts. The event highlights the vibrant blend of history, community, and creativity that defines Tallinn, offering visitors an authentic experience of the city’s living medieval spirit.

Le Infiorate di Spello is an annual flower festival held in Spello, Italy celebrating the beauty of flowers and the town’s artistic heritage. During the festival, the streets of Spello are transformed into vibrant, colorful displays of intricate flower carpets and designs. Local artisans and volunteers use thousands of petals to create detailed, temporary artworks depicting religious, cultural, and artistic themes. The festival coincides with the Feast of Corpus Christi, and the flower arrangements are often blessed by local clergy before the procession takes place. Le Infiorate di Spello is a stunning celebration of creativity, nature, and tradition, drawing visitors from around the world to admire the beauty of these floral masterpieces.

24 Heures du Mans (24 Hours of Le Mans) is the world’s most iconic endurance car race, held annually in Le Mans, France, since 1923. This legendary 24-hour showdown pushes drivers and machines to their limits on the Circuit de la Sarthe, combining closed public roads with racetrack sections. Beyond the track, the event transforms into a full-blown festival, with a lively carnival, Ferris wheel, live concerts, and fireworks lighting up the night. With its mix of speed, strategy, and spectacle, Le Mans offers a one-of-a-kind blend of motorsport glory and festival energy that draws over 250,000 fans from around the world.

Rock for People is Czechia’s flagship rock-and-alternative gathering in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic, staged each mid-June at the former airfield festival complex Park 360. Expect a multi-stage marathon of global headliners and emerging acts, plus festival-side culture—afterparties, pop-up talks and theatre, and a full village of food stands and craft bars—with easy add-ons like camping and city shuttles that keep the energy rolling late into the night.

Festival minipivovarů na Pražském hradě (Prague Castle Microbrewery Festival) invites beer lovers to Prague, Czech Republic each June, when the Royal Garden of Prague Castle (along Střelecká cesta beneath the Royal Summer Palace) becomes a tasting promenade for Czech and Moravian craft breweries, often joined by select guests from abroad. Entry typically includes a branded tasting glass, and you can chat directly with brewers while sampling lagers, ales, and seasonal specialties, backed by hearty Czech street food in one of the city’s most scenic settings.

The Médievales de Provins is a vibrant annual festival held in the UNESCO-listed town of Provins, France, celebrating its rich medieval heritage. Taking place over a weekend in June, the event transforms the town into a bustling medieval village with costumed parades, knight tournaments, jousting, falconry displays, and reenactments of medieval life. Visitors can explore craft markets, enjoy traditional music and dance, and feast on authentic medieval cuisine. Set against Provins’ well-preserved ramparts and historic architecture, the festival offers a magical step back in time for all ages.

Royal Ascot is Britain’s most prestigious horse racing event, held annually in June at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England. Established in 1711 by Queen Anne, it is known for its high-stakes races, royal pageantry, and fashionable dress code, including extravagant hats. The event spans five days, featuring world-class thoroughbred racing, highlighted by the Gold Cup and attended by members of the British Royal Family, who arrive in a royal procession. Combining sport, tradition, and elegance, Royal Ascot is a key fixture in the British social calendar, attracting elite guests, celebrities, and racing enthusiasts from around the world.

Internationalt Drageflyvetræf på Fanø (International Kite Fliers Meeting, Fanø Island) is the world’s largest gathering of kite enthusiasts, held each June on the wide sandy beaches of Fanø, a Danish island in the North Sea. For over 30 years, thousands of kite fliers from around the globe have filled the skies with an incredible array of colorful creations, from delicate handmade designs to massive, whimsical shapes. The festival celebrates both craftsmanship and community spirit, drawing families, photographers, and spectators who come to marvel at the ever-changing spectacle above the dunes. With its mix of art, playfulness, and natural beauty, it’s a uniquely magical event by the sea.

Celebration of the Five-Petalled Rose turns Český Krumlov, Czech Republic into a Renaissance stage each June, on the weekend closest to the summer solstice, celebrating the city’s golden age under the Rožmberk (Rosenberg) dynasty—whose emblem was the five-petalled rose (known locally as Slavnosti pětilisté růže). Expect a grand costumed procession through the UNESCO-listed old town, lively craft markets, historical music and theatre, and crowd-pleasing knightly tournaments around the castle district.

De Parade in Amsterdam is a vibrant annual event held during the summer. The festival features a diverse range of performances, including theater, dance, music, and circus acts, all set in a series of large, colorful tents. Known for its lively and informal atmosphere, De Parade transforms Amsterdam's Martin Luther King Park into a dynamic cultural hub, where local and international artists showcase contemporary and experimental work. The festival emphasizes accessibility and interaction, making it a popular event for both families and theater enthusiasts.

Juhannus (Midsummer in Finland) is one of Finland’s most beloved seasonal celebrations, held on the weekend closest to June 24th to honor the summer solstice and the feast of St. John the Baptist. Across the country, Finns retreat to lakeside cottages to light bonfires, enjoy saunas, and celebrate under the midnight sun with music, dancing, and traditional foods. Many towns also host open-air festivals and folk events, while the serene countryside glows with endless daylight. Blending pagan roots, Christian tradition, and deep love for nature, Juhannus captures the essence of Finnish summer and the joy of light returning to the north.

Празник на черешата (Cherry Festival) is Kyustendil’s sweet salute to the cherry harvest in Kyustendil, Bulgaria, held each late June when the town proudly leans into its nickname, the “Fruit Garden of Bulgaria.” The center fills with an exhibition-bazaar of gleaming cherry varieties and inventive cherry displays, plus tastings and take-home treats—jams, syrups, cakes, and pastries—all backed by lively folk music and dance that turns a simple fruit celebration into a full weekend of local pride and summer flavor.

Kieler Woche (Kiel Week) is an annual sailing event and festival held in Kiel, Germany. It is one of the largest sailing regattas in the world, attracting international sailors and maritime enthusiasts. The event features competitive sailing races, live music, cultural performances, and street markets. Kieler Woche also celebrates maritime culture with various activities on the water and along the city's waterfront, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. It draws both locals and tourists to enjoy the combination of sport, culture, and entertainment, making it a major event in the German summer calendar.

INmusic Festival is Zagreb’s flagship open-air celebration of contemporary live music in Zagreb, Croatia, staged on the lush islands of Lake Jarun (notably the Isle of Youth) each late June. Expect a boutique-but-big energy: multiple genre-spanning stages mixing rock, indie, pop, and electronic with major international headliners and regional discoveries, all in a lakeside “festival-within-the-city” setting. Many fans extend the experience at the on-site INmusic camp on nearby Jarun islands.

The Festa de São João (Festival of Saint John) is an annual celebration held in Porto, Portugal, in honor of Saint John the Baptist. The festival, which takes place in June, is one of the most vibrant and popular events in Portugal, featuring street parties, music, dancing, and fireworks. A unique tradition of the festival is the hitting of people's heads with plastic hammers, as a playful gesture of celebration. The Festa de São João also includes barbecues, with grilled sardines being a local favorite, and the release of sky lanterns into the night sky, creating a stunning visual display. It is a joyful and lively celebration of local culture, community spirit, and tradition.

Oberlindenhock is an annual street festival held in Freiburg, Germany. The event celebrates the vibrant community spirit of the Oberlinden area, featuring live music, street performances, and various cultural activities. The festival includes food stalls serving local specialties, art exhibitions, and outdoor activities. Oberlindenhock is a lively celebration of Freiburg's culture, offering a fun and festive atmosphere in one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.

Elbhangfest is an annual cultural festival held in Dresden, Germany. The event celebrates the traditions and history of the Elbe River region, featuring a variety of music, theater performances, art exhibitions, and local food. The festival spans multiple venues along the riverbank, including street performances, parades, and cultural activities that highlight the region's heritage. Elbhangfest offers a lively celebration of Dresden's cultural richness and the beauty of the Elbe river.

Aarhus Jazz Festival turns Aarhus, Denmark into a citywide celebration of jazz in all its forms each July, with hundreds of gigs across concert halls, cafés, churches, museums, and outdoor stages. Expect everything from classic swing to avant-garde and jazz-tinged electronic, plus easy drop-in highlights like free daytime sets, jazz lunch, and family-friendly kids’ concerts. The vibe is hop-on/hop-off: follow the sound through the centre, then finish with late-night jam sessions in intimate venues.

Festival komorní hudby Český Krumlov (Český Krumlov Chamber Music Festival) celebrates chamber music and the town’s aristocratic musical heritage in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic, from late June into early July, with intimate concerts in storybook venues—Castle and Château halls, the Masquerade Hall, and candlelit churches. Its signature highlight is Baroque Night at Český Krumlov Castle, a playful 18th-century-style feast of music on period instruments, costumed pageantry, and late-evening sparkle that makes the UNESCO streets feel like a living stage.

Roskilde Festival turns fields just outside Roskilde, Denmark into an eight-day celebration of music, art, and activism in late June and early July, run proudly as a non-profit that channels its surplus to good causes. The heart is the iconic Orange Stage, backed by a village of genre-spanning stages, pop-up talks and workshops, and a legendary camping city where community rituals—parades, DIY camps, sunrise sets—are as memorable as the headliners.

The Wimbledon Tennis Championship is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, held annually in Wimbledon, London, typically in late June and early July. It is the oldest tennis tournament in the world, having first been played in 1877. Known for its prestigious history, Wimbledon is famous for its grass courts, strict dress code requiring players to wear white, and its tradition of royal patronage. The tournament features men's and women's singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events, attracting top-ranked players from around the globe. Wimbledon is a highlight of the tennis season, drawing large crowds and global TV audiences, and is celebrated for its rich traditions and high level of competition.