Events in Europe
European Heritage Days
European Heritage Days is an annual event held across Europe on the third weekend of September, offering free access to historical sites, museums, monuments, and government buildings that are usually closed to the public. Launched in 1984, the event highlights cultural heritage through guided tours, special exhibitions, and interactive workshops, allowing visitors to explore everything from medieval castles to private mansions and iconic landmarks. It’s a unique opportunity to discover hidden treasures, learn about history, and celebrate Europe’s rich cultural legacy.
St. Andrew’s Day
St. Andrew’s Day is Scotland’s national holiday, celebrated every November 30th in honor of Saint Andrew, the country’s patron saint. Marking the start of the Scottish winter festival season, the day is filled with traditional music, ceilidh dancing, flag-flying, and plenty of Scottish fare like haggis and whisky. Cities and villages alike host events ranging from torchlit processions to cultural showcases that celebrate Scottish heritage and community spirit. It’s a joyful, patriotic occasion that brings the warmth of tradition to the year’s darkest days.
Edinburgh Science Festival
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.
Beltane Fire Festival
The Beltane Fire Festival is an annual event held on April 30th in Edinburgh, Scotland, celebrating the ancient Celtic festival of Beltane, which marks the arrival of summer. The festival features a large, colorful procession, where participants dress in elaborate costumes representing elements of nature, mythology, and the changing seasons. It includes dramatic performances, live music, and fire displays, all set against the backdrop of Calton Hill. The Beltane Fire Festival is a unique blend of contemporary and traditional rituals, aiming to honor the connection between people and nature, and attract thousands of visitors to experience its vibrant, energetic atmosphere.
Largs Viking Festival
The Largs Viking Festival is an annual event held in Largs, Scotland, celebrating the town's Viking heritage. The festival features a series of reenactments, including a dramatic Viking battle and the ceremonial burning of a Viking longship. Visitors can enjoy Viking-themed activities, such as traditional music, dancing, storytelling, and market stalls selling crafts and food. The festival commemorates the historic Battle of Largs, which took place in 1263, and attracts thousands of visitors each year, offering a lively and immersive experience into Scotland's Viking past.
The Cowal Highland Gathering
The Cowal Highland Gathering is an annual event held in Dunoon, Scotland. It is one of the largest and most prestigious Highland Games in Scotland, featuring traditional Scottish events such as caber tossing, tug-of-war, pipe bands, dancing, and heavy athletics. The gathering also includes a wide variety of cultural activities, including Scottish music, dancing, and displays of local crafts. With its stunning setting on the west coast of Scotland, the Cowal Highland Gathering attracts thousands of visitors each year, offering a celebration of Scottish heritage, tradition, and community.