Content
The world is poised to come alive with an array of festivals and events that celebrate culture, art, music, and tradition. From the cherry blossom-lined streets of Japan to the pulsating rhythms of Brazil’s Carnival, the months ahead promise an exhilarating journey through some of the most captivating celebrations on the planet.
March: Embracing the Arrival of Spring
Japan
As winter loosens its grip and nature begins to awaken, March heralds the arrival of spring with a myriad of festivals and events around the world. In Japan, the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms takes center stage as the nation celebrates the Sakura Matsuri, or cherry blossom festival. Visitors from far and wide flock to iconic spots such as Tokyo’s Ueno Park and Kyoto’s Maruyama Park to witness the fleeting spectacle of delicate pink blossoms adorning the trees.
Ireland
St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated on March 17th, is a cultural and religious holiday commemorating the death date of Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland. Originally a religious feast day, it has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture with festivities including parades, wearing green attire, music, dancing, and the consumption of traditional Irish food and drinks, especially Irish stouts like Guinness and Irish whiskey.
St. Patrick’s Day celebrations can be found in many cities around the world, not just in Ireland. But naturally, Dublin hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the world, featuring a massive parade, music performances, and various cultural events throughout the city.
April: A Symphony of Culture and Sports
France
The Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris is one of the most prestigious marathons in the world and typically takes place annually in the spring in Paris, France. Participants from all over the world come to run through the streets of Paris, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
The marathon route starts and finishes near the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs-Élysées. The exact route may vary slightly from year to year, but it typically covers a scenic course that showcases the beauty and charm of Paris.
Italy
The Biennale Arte, one of the most prestigious events in the art world, is set to captivate audiences once again with its highly anticipated 2024 edition. Scheduled to take place in the enchanting city of Venice, Italy, the Biennale Arte 2024 promises to be a celebration of contemporary art like never before.
Renowned for its ability to push boundaries, challenge perceptions, and inspire dialogue, the Biennale Arte serves as a platform for artists from around the globe to showcase their innovative works.
May: Designing and Racing
Monaco
Prepare for the thrill of a lifetime as the Principality of Monaco gears up to host one of the most prestigious and iconic events in the world of motorsport – the Monaco Grand Prix 2024. Renowned for its glitz, glamour, and heart-pounding racing action, the Monaco Grand Prix stands as a pinnacle of excellence in Formula 1 racing, attracting fans, drivers, and celebrities from across the globe.
Scheduled to take place in the opulent surroundings of the Monte Carlo Circuit from May 23rd to May 26th, the Monaco Grand Prix promises a weekend of high-octane excitement and unparalleled luxury. Against the backdrop of Monaco’s stunning coastline and chic cityscape, the world’s finest drivers will compete for glory on one of the most demanding and prestigious tracks in motorsport history.
Australia
Melbourne Design Week is an annual event that celebrates and showcases the best of design in Melbourne, Australia. It typically takes place over the course of several days, offering a diverse program of exhibitions, talks, workshops, tours, and other events focused on design across various disciplines such as architecture, fashion, graphic design, industrial design, and more.
The event aims to highlight Melbourne’s vibrant design culture, creativity, and innovation, bringing together designers, industry professionals, enthusiasts, and the public to explore, engage, and learn about the latest trends and developments in design.
Whether you’re a design professional, student, or simply someone with an interest in design, Melbourne Design Week offers something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate the power and influence of design in shaping our world. Be sure to check the official Melbourne Design Week website or related social media channels for updates on upcoming events, dates, and programming details.
June: Football, football, football
Germany
In the heartland of football passion, where the beautiful game is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric, Germany eagerly awaits the arrival of the UEFA European Football Championship in 2024. As the host nation, Germany is preparing to welcome the footballing world to a spectacular celebration of talent, competition, and camaraderie.
Germany’s love affair with football is legendary. From the grassroots level to the highest echelons of the sport, football holds a cherished place in the hearts of millions of Germans. From the bustling metropolis of Berlin to the historic charm of Munich, the tournament will offer a unique opportunity for fans to experience the cultural vibrancy of each host city while enjoying world-class football.
July: Superheroes, Royals and Nomads
France
The Olympic Games are one of the most anticipated and celebrated sporting events on the global stage, bringing together athletes from all corners of the world to compete at the highest level. In 2024, the Olympic Games are scheduled to take place in Paris, France, marking the return of the prestigious event to the city for the first time in a century.
Paris promises state-of-the-art venues and world-class infrastructure to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike. The event organizers are committed to implementing eco-friendly practices, promoting inclusivity and diversity, and investing in community development initiatives that will benefit Parisians long after the Olympic flame has been extinguished.
United Kingdom
For centuries, Buckingham Palace has stood as a symbol of British monarchy and tradition. During the Summer Opening, visitors have the rare opportunity to step inside the gates of this historic residence and explore its magnificent State Rooms, adorned with priceless artworks, lavish furnishings, and exquisite décor fit for royalty.
As part of the Summer Opening 2024, Buckingham Palace hosts special exhibitions and events that offer insights into royal life and history. Many television producers draw inspiration from Buckingham Palace and its inhabitants when crafting royal dramas. TV show lovers can gain firsthand inspiration and a deeper appreciation for the settings and characters depicted in their favorite series.
USA
Comic-Con, the world’s premier pop culture convention, is set to return in 2024 with another epic gathering of fans, creators, and industry professionals. Held annually in San Diego, California, Comic-Con is a mecca for lovers of comic books, movies, television shows, video games, and all things nerdy and geeky. With its diverse array of panels, screenings, exhibits, and celebrity appearances, Comic-Con promises an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages.
At Comic-Con 2024, fans can expect an exciting lineup of panels featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment. From exclusive previews of upcoming blockbuster movies to in-depth discussions with comic book creators and industry insiders, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Marvel, DC, Star Wars, or any other franchise, Comic-Con offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow fans and get a behind-the-scenes look at your favorite properties.
Mongolia
The Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s most significant and revered cultural event, is set to take place in 2024, promising a vibrant celebration of traditional Mongolian sports, arts, and culture. Held annually in July across the country, Naadam is a time-honored tradition that dates back centuries, originating from the era of Genghis Khan as a way to train warriors for battle. Today, Naadam has evolved into a national holiday and cultural festival that showcases the rich heritage and nomadic way of life of the Mongolian people.
At the heart of the Naadam Festival are the “Three Manly Games” or “Three Games of Men” – wrestling, horse racing, and archery. These traditional sports reflect the skills and abilities prized by the nomadic warriors of Mongolia and remain central to the festival’s identity.
August
Netherlands
The Grachtenfestival, or Canal Festival, takes place against the backdrop of Amsterdam’s iconic canals, providing a stunning setting for a diverse array of musical performances. From classical concerts to jazz ensembles, the festival showcases the talents of both established musicians and emerging artists, with performances held in unique venues ranging from historic canal houses to floating stages
One of the highlights of the Grachtenfestival is the opportunity to explore Amsterdam’s neighborhoods and hidden gems. Concerts and performances take place in various locations across the city, inviting attendees to discover charming canal-side venues, historic landmarks, and bustling squares while immersing themselves in the festival’s musical offerings.
September: Whales and Venice
Italy
The Regata Storica, or Historical Regatta, is an annual event steeped in tradition and history that takes place in the enchanting city of Venice, Italy. Dating back to the 13th century, this colorful and vibrant regatta celebrates Venice’s rich maritime heritage and showcases the city’s enduring connection to the water.
Held on the first Sunday of September, the Regata Storica is a highlight of Venice’s cultural calendar and attracts thousands of spectators from around the world. The event is a spectacle of sight and sound, featuring a series of rowing races along the Grand Canal, as well as a magnificent historical procession that pays homage to Venice’s glorious past.
Spain
Every year, the streets of Barcelona come alive with a riot of color, music, and festivity as the city hosts La Mercè, one of its most cherished and vibrant traditions. This annual festival, which honors the city’s patron saint, Mare de Déu de la Mercè (Our Lady of Mercy), is a time-honored celebration of Catalan culture, heritage, and community spirit.
Throughout La Mercè, the city’s squares, parks, and landmarks serve as stages for a dazzling array of cultural performances, including live music concerts, dance shows, theater productions, and art exhibitions. From traditional Catalan folk music to contemporary world beats, the festival offers something for every taste and preference, showcasing the richness and diversity of Barcelona’s cultural scene.
South Africa
The Hermanus Whale Festival is a spectacular annual event held in Hermanus, South Africa, celebrating the magnificent southern right whales and their migratory journey along the country’s coastline. This festival, often referred to as the “whale capital of the world,” is a testament to the town’s commitment to marine conservation and eco-tourism while providing an unforgettable experience for visitors from near and far.
The festival typically takes place in September, coinciding with the peak of the southern right whale season along the Western Cape. During this time, hundreds of these majestic creatures migrate from their feeding grounds in the Antarctic to the warmer waters of South Africa’s coastline to mate, calve, and rear their young. Hermanus, with its unique position overlooking Walker Bay, offers one of the best vantage points in the world for whale watching, making it the perfect location for this celebration of marine life.
October: Beer and Celebrating Light
Germany
Oktoberfest, the world’s largest and most famous beer festival, is an annual event held in Munich, Germany, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe. Steeped in tradition and Bavarian culture, Oktoberfest is a celebration of beer, food, and camaraderie that dates back over two centuries.
Today, Oktoberfest spans over two weeks, beginning in late September and running into the first weekend of October. The festival takes place at the Theresienwiese, a large open space in the heart of Munich, where massive beer tents are erected to accommodate the millions of visitors who flock to the event each year.
India
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and holds immense cultural and religious significance. Observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists, Diwali is a festival of lights that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival typically falls between October and November, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar, and spans over five days of festivities, each with its own rituals and customs.
Preparations for Diwali usually begin weeks in advance, with people cleaning and decorating their homes, offices, and public spaces. The streets are adorned with colorful rangoli designs, intricate patterns made from colored powders, rice, or flower petals, while homes are illuminated with rows of oil lamps and decorative lights.
November: Day of the Dead
Día de los Muertos is a colorful Mexican holiday that celebrates the lives of deceased loved ones. Observed annually on November 1st and 2nd, Día de los Muertos is a time for families and communities to come together to honor and remember those who have passed away, welcoming their spirits back to the world of the living for a brief visit.
Rooted in indigenous traditions dating back thousands of years, Día de los Muertos combines elements of pre-Hispanic beliefs with Catholic traditions brought by Spanish colonizers. Día de los Muertos is also marked by festive celebrations, including parades, music, dance, and storytelling. In some communities, there are processions to cemeteries, where families gather to clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones, and to share meals, stories, and memories.
December: Christmas and New Year
USA
Times Square in New York City is synonymous with New Year’s Eve celebrations, drawing massive crowds to witness the famous ball drop at midnight. The streets are filled with revelers who come to watch live performances, musical acts, and the iconic descent of the New Year’s Eve ball, accompanied by a breathtaking fireworks display.
Scotland
Hogmanay is the Scottish word for New Year’s Eve and refers to the traditional celebrations that take place across Scotland to welcome the arrival of the new year. The origins of Hogmanay can be traced back to the ancient pagan winter solstice celebrations, which were later incorporated into Christian traditions. Over time, Hogmanay evolved into a distinctively Scottish holiday, celebrated with enthusiasm and gusto by people of all ages.
One of the most iconic Hogmanay customs is “First-Footing,” where the first person to enter a household after midnight on New Year’s Eve is believed to bring good luck for the coming year. Traditionally, the “first-footer” is expected to bring symbolic gifts such as whisky, coal, or shortbread, and is welcomed with warmth and hospitality by the household.
Indonesia
In Bali, New Year’s Eve, known as “Nyepi,” marks the beginning of the Balinese Saka calendar and is celebrated with great reverence and tradition. Nyepi is preceded by a series of rituals and ceremonies known as “Ngrupuk,” where communities come together to cleanse the island of evil spirits through colorful processions, music, and dance.
The highlight of Nyepi is the “Day of Silence,” a 24-hour period of introspection and meditation observed by locals and visitors alike. On this day, the entire island comes to a standstill as people refrain from work, entertainment, and even speaking. Streets are deserted, businesses close their doors, and lights are dimmed to create an atmosphere of peace and serenity.
Leading up to Nyepi, Bali is filled with the sights and sounds of “Ogoh-Ogoh” parades, where giant papier-mâché effigies representing evil spirits are paraded through the streets amidst the beating of drums and chanting of prayers.
FAQ
What documents do I need to travel?
We recommend looking up your passport index at passportindex.org
What tips do you have for staying on a budget while traveling?
Book your airport transfers to and from the airport in advance. Gettransfer.com offers some of the best prices and operates worldwide. Pay for your trip in your own currency via the app or website.
