Want to elevate your holiday in the UK or Europe? Tie it in with one of these events to add some fun and tradition to your travels. From the world’s largest arts festival to a mystical parade, here are five annual events you can’t miss in Europe.
1. La Tomatina – Buñol, Spain
Located 40 kilometres west of Valencia, Spain is a small town called Buñol. It may be small, but it is world-famous for holding the La Tomatina festival every August. The day begins with palo-jabón, a greased pole with a ham on top which people compete to pull down. Then, a large food fight begins with over 100 tonnes of tomatoes tipped into the town square! This all began in 1945 when a spat during a local parade ensued, and a vegetable market stall was caught up amid it all. Townsfolk then began a yearly food fight, and the rest is history.
2. St Patrick’s Day – Ireland
St Patrick’s Day is Ireland’s largest cultural and religious celebration. It is held to commemorate the passing of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint who introduced Christianity in the fifth century. This is where the association with the three- or four-leaf clover comes from, with the three-leaf used to explain the Holy Trinity, and the fourth leaf said to add extra luck. Parades, festive meals and traditional music are the usual suspects come 17 March. This annual event is also celebrated around the world with landmarks going green – like the Chicago River being dyed green!
3. Edinburgh Fringe Festival – Edinburgh, Scotland
For three weeks every August, Edinburgh is transformed into the stage for the world’s largest arts festival. Emerging and established artists come from all corners of the earth to showcase their talents in comedy, music, theatre, dance and much more. With tens of thousands free and ticketed shows, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is one of the most budget-friendly events.
4. Krampusnacht – Central & Eastern Europe
Have you heard of the krampus before? This half-demon, half-goat mystical figure hails from Austria’s Alps and makes an appearance every festive season in cities across Central and Eastern Europe. The krampus works alongside Saint Nicholas as a good cop/bad cop duo. While Saint Nick is there for the good kids, the krampus punishes those who have been naughty. Krampusnacht (Krampus Night) is held on 5 December before Krampus parades on Saint Nicholas Day on 6 December. Bear witness to these terrifying figures as they march through towns, an unforgettable European tradition.
5. Vinterjazz – Copenhagen, Denmark
Also known as the winter jazz festival, Vinterjazz is a firm favourite every February in Denmark’s calendar. Copenhagen has made a reputation for itself as one of the jazz capitals of Europe since the 1950’s and hosts this harmonious event. From international to local musicians and large-scale orchestras to intimate wine bar gigs, take your pick of over 600 performances across over 100 venues.
Which of these would you like to attend? Experience the UK and Europe on a Globus or Cosmos tour, or an Avalon Waterways river cruise.
