Europe has so much to offer tourists. From Italy to Russia, Spain and the United Kingdom – there are so many fantastic and diverse locations all situated within the continent. The myriad of cultures in Europe is one of the biggest attractions for visitors, with its rich history and intriguing blend of philosophy, literature, music, art, and architecture. In Europe, all of these come together, and are celebrated in the array of festivals which take place throughout the year.
We’ve rounded up the top festivals and carnivals you shouldn’t miss whilst in Europe.
Notting Hill Carnival, London, UK
Taking place each year over the August Bank Holiday, Notting Hill Carnival is undoubtedly one of the best festivals to attend in the summer. Full of colour, personality, and dancing, this West London carnival celebrates island life and the spirit of the Caribbean. The feel-good vibes take over London for the long weekend. It is one of the largest street festivals in the entire world, and has attracted approximately one million people in the past few years.
Cannes Film Festival, France
This annual festival is a lavish and extravagant celebration of the arts set against the glamorous backdrop of the French Riviera. If you are looking for an opulent vacation, a trip to Cannes is a must. The Film Festival usually takes place in May, when the days are long and the weather is balmy. With an abundance of culture surrounding you, this is the perfect time to holiday in France. There are opportunities to watch previews of many new films from all over the globe, and you can explore some of the other beautiful towns along the riviera, or perhaps even rent a luxury yacht in Antibes to really make the most of your vacation.
Oktoberfest, Germany
Do you consider yourself a beer muso? If so, a must-have experience is Oktoberfest in Germany. This festival is a country-wide party taking place from late September until the first weekend of October, all with the purpose of celebrating the good stuff: beer. If you are partial to a pint, you have almost a full month to jump on a plane and get a taste of the best German beer.
Glastonbury, UK
Glastonbury, a town situated in the South-West of England, is one of the world’s most famous music festivals. First held in 1970, Glastonbury proves to be as popular as ever still over 40 years later. The festival offers everything that is brilliant about Britain, with the best names in music headlining the stages, great people, and of course, terrible weather. At the last festival, Ed Sheeran headlined the unbelievable three-day musical event, which usually takes place during the last weekend of June.
Il Palio, Italy
For the history lovers, il Palio is the best festival to go to. Il Palio takes place in Italy and is happens twice a year; first on 2nd July and for the second time on 16th August. The festival is one of the most renowned and celebrated horse races globally, however it has so much more to offer than just that. All the elements of the celebration are associated with traditional Italy. Throughout the festivities, there is a magical ambience in the town that takes you back to the medieval parades and neighbourhood dinners that would take place in days gone by.
Tomorrowland, Belgium
Last but not least, is Tomorrowland. Based in Belgium, this Electronic Dance music festival that takes place in July, is the biggest and best of EDM that the world has to offer. Attracting all of the hottest names in the dance music industry. With an out-of-this-world atmosphere, Tomorrowland tickets sell out fast, so don’t hesitate in booking a flight to Belgium for one wild weekend.
