January
Australian Open | Melbourne, Australia | 12 January – 1 February
This year’s Australian Open combines world-class tennis with a festival-like atmosphere for tennis fans, families, and intrigued newbies. Fans can watch the top-ranked players in intense matches on the courts, explore fan zones with interactive games, live music from top artists, and munch on Melbourne’s best selection of gourmet street food.
X Games at Buttermilk Mountain | Aspen, Colorado, USA | 23–25 January
Held on Aspen’s legendary slopes, the X Games feature snowboarding, skiing, BMX, and more thrilling competitions that push the limits of speed and creativity. Spectators can watch aerial tricks, halfpipe runs, and freestyle events in an iconic winter setting. Off the slopes, visitors can enjoy music performances, athlete meet-and-greets, and the beautiful Aspen region.
Napa Truffle Festival | Napa Valley, California, USA | 16–19 January
This festival celebrates winter’s prized truffle harvest in California’s wine country. Attendees can enjoy gourmet dinners prepared by Michelin-starred chefs, hands-on truffle hunts in local vineyards, cooking classes, wine pairings, and market tastings. The combination of culinary craftsmanship, scenic vineyard settings, and seasonal flavors creates an immersive food and wine adventure.
Tucson Jazz Festival | Tucson, Arizona, USA | 16–24 January
The Tucson Jazz Festival brings together legendary performers and rising talent in venues across the city, from intimate clubs to larger concert halls. Highlights include improvisational sets, masterclasses, and workshops, giving visitors the chance to experience the depth of jazz culture while enjoying the city’s vibrant arts scene and desert landscapes.
Sundance Film Festival | Park City, Utah, USA | 22 January – 1 February
This year, Sundance is set to showcase more independent films that will redefine cinema. Be among the first to see its narrative features, documentaries, and short films, with post-screening Q&As with directors and actors. Held in the mountain town of Park City Utah, it’s an exciting event to attend during a snowy winter getaway.
Lollapalooza India | Mumbai, India | 24–25 January
Get ready for an epic Lollapalooza India with Linkin Park, Playboi Carti, YUNGBLUD, and Kehlani among the many talented artists on this year’s line-up. With four stages, large-scale art installations, a curated food park, and the social-impact #LollaForChange platform, the festival promises two unforgettable days of sound, culture, and community at Mumbai’s lively Mahalaxmi Racecourse.
February
Six Nations Rugby Championship | UK, Ireland, France, Italy | 7 February – 14 March
Europe’s premier rugby tournament brings fierce national rivalries to stadiums across six countries for another year of bloody, muddy rugby. Expect bone-crunching tackles, last-minute tries, and stadiums pulsating with chants and national pride. Nothing beats watching these matches in the flesh, so head to London, Paris, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Rome, and Dublin to cheer on your team.
Northern Lights Solar Peak | Norway & Arctic Circle | Throughout Winter
This year, the Aurora Borealis reaches its solar maximum, meaning it’s the most visible time to see the Northern Lights in its 11-year cycle. Although the phenomenon can be spotted throughout winter, February is the most visible and active time. So wrap up warm and fly to Iceland, Lapland, Scotland, Norway, and other northern countries for a once in a blue moon chance to witness ethereal green lights dancing across snow-covered landscapes.
Winter Olympics 2026 | Milan, Italy | 6–22 February
The Winter Olympics return with world-class competition in skiing, snowboarding, ice hockey, figure skating, and more. Spectators can witness record-breaking performances while enjoying the wonders of wintery Italy from Milan to the Dolomites. Beyond the action, take the chance to indulge in northern Italian culture, cuisine, and scenic winter landscapes. A perfect mix of high-octane sport, festive atmosphere, and breathtaking locations.
Rio Carnival | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | 13–21 February
Rio Carnival 2026 explodes with color, music, and rhythm across the city’s streets and iconic Sambadrome. Spectators witness dazzling samba school parades with intricate floats, sparkling costumes, and choreographed performances, while street parties (blocos) fill neighborhoods with live music, dancing, and local cuisine. This unique celebration of Brazilian culture, energy, and artistry, is a true bucket-list event that will fill you with joy and inspiration.
Super Bowl LX | Santa Clara, California, USA | 8 February
Get ready for the ultimate showdown at Levi's Stadium as Super Bowl LX delivers top-tier NFL action, fanfare, and spectacle. The game’s halftime spotlight goes to Bad Bunny, set to deliver a spectacular show under the bright California sky. Expect thunderous gridiron plays, roaring stadium crowds, pre-game entertainment, and global buzz across the USA as the sporting event of the year plays out.
Nice Carnival | Nice, France | 11 February – 1 March
Throughout most of February, the coastal city of Nice lights up with elaborate floats, vibrant costumes, and daily parades along the French Riviera for the Nice Carnival. See the "Battle of Flowers" on the Promenade des Anglais, see the illuminated floats and evening shows that bring the carnival to life after dark, and taste local delicacies from street vendors and festival markets.
Québec Winter Carnival | Quebec City, Canada | Early–mid February
One of the largest winter festivals in the world, Québec Winter Carnival features ice palaces, snow sculptures, parades, and outdoor activities like canoeing and dog-sledding. Cultural shows, traditional cuisine, and the iconic Bonhomme mascot make it a family-friendly celebration blending Quebecois heritage with thrilling winter fun.
Ice Music Festival | Greenland | 26–28 February
The strangely captivating Ice Music Festival in Greenland features instruments carved from ice, producing hauntingly beautiful music in a unique fusion of art and nature amongst frozen landscapes. The festival brings together Greenland’s musical talents with its close connection to its Arctic lifestyle, showcasing the magic humans can create with raw talent and creativity.
Mardi Gras (115th edition) | New Orleans, Louisiana, USA | 6–17 February
New Orleans comes alive once again with vibrant parades, street celebrations, masked balls, and a captivating mix of Southern music during Mardi Gras 2026. As a festival of feasting, its trying the local culinary delights like king cake and other Creole dishes make it the perfect Deep South experience.
March
Total Lunar Eclipse | Global | 3 March
On the night of March 3rd, the world will be treated to a rare total lunar eclipse where the moon moves into the Earth’s shadow, causing it to appear blood-red. While Europe, Africa, and the Eastern US won’t be in sight of the moon during the eclipse, Asia and Australasia will have excellent visibility, especially in the Philippines.
Holi Festival (Festival of Colors) | India | 4 March
During Holi, Hindus gather in the masses across India to throw colored powder and water over each other, celebrating the arrival of Spring and the triumph of good over evil. It’s like a rainbow explodes over towns and cities, causing an infectious sense of joy and freedom. Even if you don’t practice Hinduism, or any religion for that matter, immersing in the colorful crowds of Holi festival will be deeply moving.
Lollapalooza South America | Brazil, Chile, & Argentina | 13–22 March
Catch the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Tyler, The Creator, Chappell Roan, Deftones, Lorde, Skrillex, Doechii, Turnstile, and Lewis Capaldi at iconic venues in Santiago and Buenos Aires during Lollapalooza South America 2026. Between live performances from the year’s biggest artists, enjoy the eclectic festival spirit at the immersive art installations, interactive experiences, gourmet food zones, and curated spaces for relaxation.
Art Basel Hong Kong | Hong Kong | 27–29 March
Art Basel Hong Kong transforms the city into a global art hub, showcasing contemporary works from leading galleries worldwide. This is your chance to see the latest in contemporary art, attend talks and panel discussions, and engage with emerging artists. Combining cultural insight, networking opportunities, and immersive exhibitions, it’s a must-visit destination for collectors, creatives, and art enthusiasts alike in an incredible city.
National Grape Harvest Festival | Mendoza, Argentina | 26 February – 9 March
Mendoza bursts into another year of celebration for the National Grape Harvest Festival, blending Argentinian tradition, music, and wine culture. Witness lively parades, folkloric dances, and the iconic grape-stomping ceremony that showcase the region’s unique heritage and world-leading wines. Of course, there’s plenty of chances to sample the regoin’s delicious wine too, with wine tastings, vineyard tours, and local culinary delights.
Winter Paralympics 2026 | Milan & Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy | 6–15 March
Following the Winter Olympics held earlier in the season, the Winter Paralympics kicks off for a week of impressive paralimpic sports. Watch inspring paralympic athletes compete at the highest level across skiing, snowboarding, ice sledge hockey, and other events. Catch the opening ceremony at Arena di Verona and celebrate with the winning nation at the finals in Cortina.
April
Bisket Jatra | Nepal | 14 April
Bisket Jatra transforms Bhaktapur into a whirlwind of color, sound, and devotion as locals and visitors celebrate the Nepali New Year. Towering chariots rumble through the streets while drums, horns, and chants reverberate through ancient squares. Rituals honor deities and ancestors, and the city pulses with communal energy, blending spiritual reverence with exhilarating spectacle and cultural pride.
Cherry Blossom / Sakura Season | Kyoto, Japan | 1–9 April
If you’re planning to visit Japan, there’s no better time than the Sakura season, when the pink cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, turning the country into a cotton candy wonderland. Find them framing lakes, walking routes, roads, and temples everywhere from Tokyo to Hokkaido, making every scene that bit more photo-worthy.
Bali Spirit Festival | Ubud, Bali, Indonesia | 15–19 April
The Bali Spirit Festival fully embraces and embodies this identity for five days of yoga, healing workshops, music, and meditation for solo travelers and families alike. Start each day with some ashtanga, followed by breathwork, reiki, or a nutritional workshop at the Healing Hut, and finish it dancing with your newfound community at the World Music Stage.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival | New Orleans, Louisiana, USA | 23–26 April & 30 April – 3 May
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival will fill the streets with sumptuously Southern music, food, and culture in 2026. From soulful jazz and gospel to lively brass bands, the city pulses with the rhythm of the biggest names from in and around New Orleans. Meanwhile, local chefs serve Creole and Cajun delights, making the event one of the best ways to get a true taste of the Deep South.
Coachella (25th Anniversary) | Indio, California, USA | 10–12 April & 17–19 April
Get your best festival fit ready for Coachella 2026 as it takes over the desert in Indio, California for another year of futuristic whimsy. This year, the festival has outdone itself with headliners including Justin Bieber and Sabrina Carpenter, plus many more exciting artists like Karol G, The Strokes, and FKA twigs. Beside the music, expect Instagrammable art installations, memorable fashion moments, food trucks, surprise sets, and days filled with music and magic.
Route 66 Centennial “Dust to Dreams” Drive | Chicago to Los Angeles, USA | 13–29 April
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a cross-country journey highlighting historic towns, roadside attractions, and classic Americana. Participants experience curated drives, local entertainment, and cultural exhibitions, offering both nostalgia and adventure along the legendary “Main Street of America.”
Monaco Historic Grand Prix | Monte Carlo, Monaco | 24–26 April
The Monaco Grand Prix 2026 will turn the streets of Monte Carlo into a playground of speed, glamour, and spectacle. Expect thrilling races, electric energy, and a celebration of motorsport amidst the sophisticated streets. After Formula 1’s elite navigate hairpin turns, and iconic harbor straights to crown the day’s winner, it’s time to get glammed up and head to the nearest yacht party.
Keukenhof / Dutch Spring Flower Season | Lisse, Netherlands | 19 March – 10 May
The Netherlands is famous for its colourful tulip farms, and there’s no better place to appreciate them than at Keukenhof Gardens during the Dutch Spring flower season. Its breathtaking display of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in meticulously designed landscapes are a magnificent sight to behold.. Visitors can explore themed gardens, art installations, and seasonal exhibitions, combining horticultural beauty with Dutch culture.
Holy Week / Semana Santa Processions | Seville & Spain | 29 March – 5 April
For a culturally rich experience in Spain, visit during the week of Santa Semana, where communities gather to celebrate Easter with true Catholic devotion and tradition. Cities like Seville, Malaga, and Valladolid come alive with solemn processions, ornate floats, and centuries-old religious rituals that will move even the most steadfast non-believers.
World Snooker – Tour Championship | Manchester, UK | 30 March – 5 April
Head to Manchester for the Tour Championship wherethe top 12 players of the seasongather for a high-stakes showdown. With a £500,000 prize fund and the winner taking home £150,000, every frame counts. It’s the climax of the Players Series, where ranking, prestige, and momentum toward the season finale ride on razor-thin cues and nerves of steel.
May
Chelsea Flower Show | London, England | 19–23 May
The show-stopping Chelsea Flower Show by the Royal Horticultural Society will brighten the grey skies of London again in 2026 as the world’s best garden designers, florists, and landscape artists showcase their extraordinary capabilities at the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Attended by members of the Royal Family, it’s one of the most highly anticipated and British-coded events of the year in the UK.
Lotus Lantern Festival | Seoul, South Korea | 26–27 May
In May, Seoul transforms into a luminous wonderland as thousands of lanterns light the city in celebration of Buddha’s birthday. Visitors join in crafting lanterns, explore traditional rituals, and become part of a citywide spectacle where spiritual reverence meets the joyous rhythm of Korean culture. Expect temples that shimmer under glowing colors, waterways that mirror floating lanterns, and drumbeats that echo through historic streets.
French Open | Paris, France | 18 May – 7 June
Tennis will reach dramatic heights on Paris’s iconic clay courts at Roland Garros this Spring as players battle through breathtaking rallies and five-set thrillers. Beyond the stadium, Paris’s cafes, historic streets, and chic boutiques provide the perfect complement, letting spectators soak up the city’s elegance while witnessing one of the sport’s most legendary Grand Slam events.
PGA Championship | Aronimink Golf Club, Pennsylvania, USA | 14–17 May
This year, the PGA Championship showcases golf’s finest players as they navigate the perfectly sculpted fairways and challenging greens of Aronimink Golf Club. It’s the first time in 64 years the event was held on these lush Pennsylvanian greens, and only time will tell if today’s golfers will fare as well as their predecessors.
Cannes Film Festival (79th Edition) | Cannes, France | 13–24 May
The French Riviera glitters with glamour as the Cannes Film Festival unfolds in May 2026. As one of the most prestigious events in film, it will welcome the world’s most impactful actors and directors of our time. Take the chance to immerse in the glamorous world of film at premieres, screenings, and meet and greets whilst enjoying the opulent surroundings of the French Riviera.
Venice Biennale | Venice, Italy | 9 May – 22 November
Venice becomes a living gallery as palaces, gardens, and canals host contemporary masterpieces from May through to November, fusing artistic expression with the decadence of Venice’s romantic waterways and historic architecture. During this time, visitors can wander between national pavilions, discovering avant-garde installations, digital art, and immersive sculptures that challenge perception.
Eurovision Song Contest | Vienna, Austria | 12 & 14 May (semi-finals), 16 May (final)
Europe’s most popular music contest returns in 2026, and this year it’s hosted by Vienna at the elegant Wiener Stadthalle. Expect flamboyant stage shows with artists from across the continent, live voting drama, and events at the open-air “Eurovision Village.” Whether you’re a dedicated Eurovision fan or not, it will make your visit to Vienna that much more memorable.
AfrikaBurn 2026 | Tankwa, Northern Cape, South Africa | 27 April – 3 May
AfrikaBurn transforms South Africa’s Northern Cape into a vibrant, ephemeral city of art, music, and imagination. Featuring immense sculptures, theme camps, and immersive performances, it’s a festival of radical self-expression and connection. If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to form temporary society where every participant contributes to a shared celebration of art, culture, and freedom in South Africa’s stark beauty, now’s your chance.
MTN Bushfire Festival | Malkerns Valley, Eswatini | May
This May, make your way to Malkerns Valley to be part of the magical moments where MTN Bushfire merges African music, art, and culture in Eswatini’s scenic landscapes. Stages host international performers, while local artisans and interactive installations fill the grounds with color and energy. There’s no better place to experience the beauty and vibrancy of Southern African culture.
Highways Festival | Royal Albert Hall, London, UK | 15–17 May
Highways Festival electrifies London’s Royal Albert Hall with the soulful sounds of Americana and country music this May. Audiences are drawn into intimate performances, storytelling sessions, and collaborative sets by global artists. Against the grandeur of this historic venue, the festival pulses with roots traditions, heartfelt performances, and the warm energy of music that bridges continents and generations.
June
FIFA World Cup 2026 | USA, Canada, Mexico | 11 June – 19 July
The FIFA World Cup is back in 2026 for another nail-biting championship, but this time it will be held in not one, not two, but three host countries: the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The kick-off match will take place at the Aztec Stadium in Mexico City on June 11 with an epic opening ceremony before expanding across 16 cities, including Toronto, Texas, LA, and Monterrey, as the best footballers from around the world play for the ultimate title.
Berlin Art Week 2026 | Berlin, Germany | 15–21 June
As an expressive and creative city, it’s no surprise that Berlin Art Week is one of the most exciting and inspiring art events of the year. The entire city becomes a hub for contemporary art with exhibitions, gallery openings, and interactive installations across the city in June. Collectors, creatives, and enthusiasts explore emerging talent and established artists, engage in discussions, and attend workshops, and much more.
Rock am Ring & Rock im Park | Nürburgring & Nuremberg, Germany | 5–7 June
Rock am Ring & Rock im Park 2026 explodes with power as rock and metal titans like Linkin Park, Iron Maiden, Volbeat, Limp Bizkit, Papa Roach and more take over Nürburgring and Nuremberg. Expect three days of crushing riffs, crowd-surfing energy and pulsing stages. Food trucks, camping grounds, late-night camaraderie and roaring crowds round out a weekend where rock culture reigns supreme.
Governors Ball | New York City, USA | 5–7 June
Set on Randall’s Island, NY, Governors Ball is a celebration of pop culture through music, art, and food with New York’s skyline as the backdrop. This year’s line-up is strong as ever, including acts like Olivia Rodrigo, Tyler, The Creator, Hozier, and Glass Animals. Iconic acts for an iconic setting.
Download Festival | Donington Park, UK | 10–14 June
Heavy metal and hard rock fans get ready for another raging Download Festival at Donington Park with live performances from both legendary bands and rising stars in 2026. This year’s holy grail is Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park, and Guns N’ Roses, plus the Architects, Feeder, Pendulum, and many more are set to perform. As rock goes, there’s nowhere better festival to find yourself at this year than in the muddy mosh pits of northern England.
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival | Manchester, Tennessee, USA | 11–14 June
Bonnaroo lights up the Tennessee countryside with a genre-bending mix of Yungblud, Rüfüs Du Sol, Noah Kahan, Kesha, and Mt. Joy setting the tone for four days of pure festival magic. Expect sunrise sets on The Farm, sprawling art installations, forest hideaways, and late-night dance tents—all wrapped in Bonnaroo’s signature blend of Southern warmth, creativity, and community spirit.
Electric Forest | Rothbury, Michigan, USA | 18–21 June
Electric Forest transforms the Michigan woods into a neon dreamscape as ILLENIUM, Excision, Kaskade, and GRiZ power the festival’s electrifying soundtrack. Together with its art installations, hidden stages, interactive forest paths, and immersive light shows, the Forest delivers a surreal, electronic escape where music, nature, and imagination merge.
Roskilde Festival | Roskilde, Denmark | 27 June – 4 July
Roskilde Festival turns the Danish countryside into a vibrant cultural world of its own as Gorillaz, The Cure, Zara Larsson, David Byrne, and Ethel Cain lead an eclectic, genre-blending lineup. Massive orange-stage moments meet grassroots art, activist spaces, late-night raves, and communal camping traditions. Expect a bold, free-spirited atmosphere where boundary-pushing music and Scandinavian creativity shape every corner of the experience.
Rock in Rio Lisboa | Lisbon, Portugal | 20–21 & 27–28 June
Rock in Rio Lisboa is set to erupt with a modern-classic lineup as acts like Katy Perry, Linkin Park, Cypress Hill, The Pretty Reckless, Kaiser Chiefs, Rod Stewart, Cyndi Lauper, 4 Non Blondes, and Joss Stone light up Portugal’s biggest music party. Expect massive open-air stages, carnival-style energy, thrill rides, street-food villages, and sunset performances that spill into Lisbon’s lively, music-soaked nights.
Primavera Sound Barcelona 2026 | Barcelona, Spain | 4–6 June
Primavera Sound unfolds across the waterfront of Barcelona with a lineup that swings from legendary to cutting-edge: The Cure, Doja Cat, The xx, Gorillaz, Massive Attack, and Addison Rae share the bill with Big Thief, Kneecap, and Slowdive. Expect sunset sets over Parc del Fòrum, boundary-pushing performances, late-night electronic stages, and Barcelona’s effortless blend of art, style, and Mediterranean energy.
July
Wimbledon Tennis Championships | London
Wimbledon sweeps England into its timeless summer ritual — strawberries, sunshine, and Centre Court suspense this July. Watch the world’s top players battle through marathon rallies on legendary courts, between Henman Hill picnics, crisp Pimm’s, and classic British pageantry. Attended by the Royal Family, this a decidedly British yet global event that even superficial tennis fans will love.
Commonwealth Games | Glasgow, Scotland
Watch Glasgow erupt with energy this July as athletes from across the Commonwealth compete for their country in the city’s stadiums and streets. Expect world-class performance wrapped in Scottish warmth as the games transform the city into a celebration of unity and pride. With some of Scotland’s most magnificent landmarks nearby, it’s the perfect chance for some adventure, too.
Aix-en-Provence Festival | Aix-en-Provence, France
This July, the captivating sounds of opera will drift through warm Provençal air as Aix-en-Provence’s courtyards, theatres, and open-air stages host world-leading performers. Between the champagne receptions, baroque masterpieces, and modern opera, it promises a delicious blend of high-society culture and southern French charm.
Calgary Stampede | Calgary, Canada
Watch the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” in Calgary, Alberta, this July, where thundering rodeos, chuckwagon races, and cowboys take over the city for a world-class rodeo show. Between shows, wander through midway rides, craft stalls, live country music tents, and bbq food trucks, all of which ramp up that Western energy.
America’s 250th Birthday | Philadelphia & Across the USA
Coast-to-coast celebrations will mark 250 years of independence this July 4th, making it a special time to visit the country. In Philadelphia, history will come alive with parades, reenactments, concerts, and fireworks above Independence Hall, while cities nationwide will host block parties, cultural showcases, and patriotic displays. It’s a rare moment where past and present merge, inviting visitors into a once-in-a-generation national party.
NOS Alive | Lisbon, Portugal
NOS Alive will electrify Lisbon’s waterfront with a sharp mix of indie icons, electronic giants, and global headliners including Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Foo Fighters, Florence + The Machine, Twenty One Pilots, and Lorde. Join other festival-goers from around the world and dance beside the Atlantic, gobble pasteis de nata and fresh seafood, and spill into the city’s late-night bars after each set. The vibe blends coastal cool, Portuguese rhythm, and a world-class musical lineup.
The Open Championship | Royal Birkdale Golf Club, England
Royal Birkdale’s rugged dunes and sea winds set the stage for golf’s oldest major. Fans line fairways to watch precision, patience, and pure skill define every shot. Between rounds, visitors roam English seaside towns, pubs, and historic clubs. It’s a tournament where tradition meets raw coastal drama—an irresistible pilgrimage for lovers of the sport.
Tomorrowland | Boom, Belgium
Get your tickets to Tomorrowland, a festival that will transform Boom into a fantasy realm of colossal stages, pyrotechnic spectacles, and euphoric electronic lineups. Festival-goers can wander through themed worlds, secret sets, and immersive art that blurs reality. The energy is pure magic as thousands unite beneath lasers and fireworks, dancing from afternoon sunshine to late-night mythic madness.
Fuji Rock Festival | Naeba Ski Resort, Japan
Set in the misty mountains of Naeba, Fuji Rock blends world-class music with serene forest paths, riverside stages, and lantern-lit nights. The vibe is both electrifying and tranquil — an eco-minded celebration wrapped in breathtaking Japanese mountain scenery. Festival-goers can ride gondolas between stages, sample local Japanese eats, and unwind in nature between sets.
Lollapalooza Chicago | Chicago, Illinois, USA
Get ready for another legendary Lollapalooza as it floods Grant Park with a massive blend of pop, rock, hip-hop, and electronic heavyweights this July. Skyline views frame every stage as crowds roam food villages, art markets, and after-shows. It’s a high-energy urban festival where music meets city culture, transforming downtown Chicago into a four-day sonic carnival.
August
Edinburgh Festival Fringe | Edinburgh, Scotland
The world’s largest arts festival transforms Scotland’s capital into a nonstop celebration of comedy, theatre, music, and performance this August. Streets, pubs, and pop-up venues overflow with creativity as established stars and emerging talent perform side-by-side. Expect belly-laughs, late-night shows, unexpected brilliance, and a city buzzing with artistic energy from morning until night.
Notting Hill Carnival | London, England
London’s streets erupt in colour, rhythm, and celebration during Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street festival. Sound systems blast reggae, soca, and calypso as dancers in feathered costumes parade through West London. Between jerk chicken stalls, steel bands, and endless dancing, the carnival delivers an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean culture and community.
La Tomatina | Buñol, Spain
Every August, the small town of Buñol hosts the world’s messiest festival as thousands gather to hurl ripe tomatoes through the streets. What begins as a food fight quickly turns into a joyous, pulpy spectacle filled with laughter, music, and camaraderie. It’s chaotic, surreal, and wildly fun — a once-in-a-lifetime experience best enjoyed with goggles and a good sense of humour.
Sziget Festival | Budapest, Hungary
Set on Óbuda Island, Sziget Festival creates a week-long world of music, art, and freedom in the heart of Budapest. With a lineup spanning pop, rock, electronic, and global sounds, the festival pairs massive headline acts with circus shows, yoga sessions, beach zones, and art installations. By day or night, Sziget feels like a floating city built on creativity and connection.
Burning Man | Black Rock Desert, Nevada, USA
Burning Man returns to the Nevada desert as a temporary city dedicated to radical self-expression, art, and community. Towering installations rise from the dust, mutant vehicles roam the playa, and participants create a gift-based society unlike anything else on Earth. As the Man burns beneath the stars, the experience becomes transformative, intense, and profoundly human.
Obon Festival | Japan
Obon is one of Japan’s most important spiritual festivals, honouring the spirits of ancestors through lanterns, dances, and ceremonies. Across the country, families gather for Bon Odori dances, temples glow with candlelight, and rivers carry floating lanterns into the night. It’s a deeply moving cultural experience that blends remembrance, beauty, and tradition.
Pukkelpop | Hasselt, Belgium
Pukkelpop delivers a forward-thinking mix of alternative, electronic, and indie music in Belgium’s festival heartland. Known for its adventurous programming and vibrant crowds, the festival balances big-name headliners with underground discoveries. Expect high-energy stages, creative visuals, and an atmosphere that keeps dancing going long after sunset.
Perseid Meteor Shower | Global
August brings one of the most spectacular celestial displays of the year as the Perseid meteor shower streaks across night skies. With minimal light pollution, viewers can see dozens of meteors per hour, creating dazzling trails of light. Whether watched from remote countryside or seaside cliffs, it’s a humbling reminder of the universe’s beauty.
September
Venice Film Festival | Venice, Italy
Cinema returns to the Lido as the world’s oldest film festival welcomes global premieres, red-carpet glamour, and industry buzz. Directors, actors, and critics gather to celebrate artistic excellence while audiences experience cutting-edge films before they reach the mainstream. Between screenings, Venice’s canals and historic cafés provide an unmistakably cinematic backdrop.
Oktoberfest | Munich, Germany
Munich erupts into celebration as Oktoberfest begins, filling massive beer tents with music, laughter, and clinking steins. Visitors don traditional lederhosen and dirndls while enjoying Bavarian beer, pretzels, sausages, and folk dancing. The atmosphere is loud, friendly, and unforgettable — a cultural institution as much as a party.
Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) | Toronto, Canada
TIFF transforms Toronto into a global film capital each September, drawing A-list stars, directors, and movie lovers alike. Known for launching Oscar contenders, the festival offers premieres, industry talks, and public screenings across the city. It’s an exciting chance to experience cinema at its most influential moment of the year.
Paralympics | Various host cities
The Paralympic Games spotlight extraordinary athletes whose strength, resilience, and skill redefine sporting excellence. Events across multiple disciplines showcase elite competition, emotional triumphs, and unforgettable moments of human achievement. Watching live offers an inspiring perspective on sport, determination, and global unity.
Mid-Autumn Festival | China & East Asia
The Mid-Autumn Festival celebrates family, harvest, and the full moon with lantern displays, mooncakes, and gatherings across China and East Asia. Parks glow with candlelit lanterns, streets fill with performances, and families reunite under bright autumn skies. It’s a poetic, reflective festival that blends tradition with visual beauty.
San Gennaro Festival | Naples, Italy
Naples comes alive in honour of its patron saint, San Gennaro, with religious processions, street food, music, and local pride. The festival blends sacred rituals with vibrant street celebrations, offering visitors a deep look into Neapolitan culture. Expect bustling streets, passionate crowds, and unforgettable flavours.
Regata Storica | Venice, Italy
Venice’s canals become a stage for history during the Regata Storica, featuring elaborately decorated boats and rowers in traditional costumes. The grand procession celebrates Venice’s maritime past before thrilling races unfold along the Grand Canal. It’s a visually stunning event that fuses sport, heritage, and pageantry.
October
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta | Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Hundreds of hot air balloons lift into the dawn sky each morning, painting New Mexico in waves of colour during the world’s largest ballooning event. Mass ascensions, glow nights, and shaped balloons create magical moments against desert landscapes. It’s a surreal, family-friendly spectacle that feels both peaceful and exhilarating.
Tokyo International Film Festival | Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo celebrates global cinema with premieres, screenings, and industry gatherings that showcase both Japanese and international films. Venues across the city host discussions, red carpets, and special events, blending traditional storytelling with modern innovation. Experiencing film culture in Tokyo adds a distinctive energy to this prestigious festival.
Diwali (Festival of Lights) | India
Diwali illuminates India with millions of lamps, fireworks, and family gatherings celebrating the triumph of light over darkness. Homes, temples, and streets glow with candles and colourful decorations while sweets are shared among loved ones. The atmosphere is joyful, spiritual, and visually breathtaking.
Frieze London | London, England
Frieze London brings cutting-edge contemporary art to Regent’s Park, drawing galleries, collectors, and creatives from around the world. Visitors explore bold installations, emerging artists, and thought-provoking exhibitions inside striking temporary structures. It’s a highlight of the global art calendar set within one of London’s most beautiful green spaces.
Austin City Limits Music Festival | Austin, Texas, USA
ACL takes over Zilker Park with a diverse lineup spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music across two energetic weekends. Between stages, festival-goers enjoy Austin’s famous food trucks, craft beer, and skyline views. The laid-back Texas vibe blends perfectly with big-name performances and sunny autumn days.
Halloween | Global
Halloween transforms cities and towns worldwide into playful realms of costumes, haunted houses, and festive nightlife. From neighbourhood trick-or-treating to massive club events and parades, creativity and imagination run wild. It’s a night where the eerie and the fun collide in celebration.
World Series | USA
Baseball’s biggest championship brings stadiums alive with tension, tradition, and roaring crowds. Fans watch history unfold as the season’s top teams battle for the title across iconic ballparks. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the World Series delivers drama and American sporting culture at its finest.
November
Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) | Mexico | 1–2 November
Across Mexico, Día de los Muertos honours loved ones who have passed with colourful altars, marigolds, candles, and joyful remembrance. Cemeteries glow with candlelight as families gather to share food, music, and stories. Rather than mourning, the festival celebrates life, memory, and the enduring bond between the living and the dead.
NYC Marathon | New York City, USA | Early November
The New York City Marathon transforms the five boroughs into a moving street party as runners from around the world race past iconic landmarks. Crowds line the streets with signs, music, and cheers, creating one of the most electric atmospheres in global sport. Whether running or watching, the city’s energy is unforgettable.
Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Lantern Festival | Chiang Mai, Thailand | November
Thailand glows during Loy Krathong and Yi Peng as thousands of lanterns float into the sky and candlelit offerings drift along rivers. The festivals symbolise letting go of misfortune and welcoming new beginnings. In Chiang Mai, the sight of illuminated lanterns rising together creates a moment of pure magic and serenity.
Art Basel Miami Beach | Miami, Florida, USA | Late November
Art Basel Miami Beach brings the global art world to Florida with bold exhibitions, immersive installations, and high-profile events. Galleries, collectors, and creatives gather across Miami for a week of culture, nightlife, and conversation. The fusion of contemporary art and tropical glamour makes it one of the art calendar’s most dynamic events.
Thanksgiving | USA | Late November
Thanksgiving brings families and friends together across the United States for a day of gratitude, food, and tradition. Tables overflow with turkey, stuffing, and seasonal favourites, while parades and American football add to the festive atmosphere. It’s a uniquely warm cultural moment rooted in togetherness.
Pushkar Camel Fair | Pushkar, India | November
One of India’s most vibrant festivals, the Pushkar Camel Fair combines livestock trading with cultural celebration. Thousands of camels fill the desert town alongside music, dancing, competitions, and religious rituals. The result is a spectacular blend of colour, tradition, and rural life in Rajasthan.
December
Christmas Market Season | Gdańsk, Poland | Throughout December
Witness Gdańsk glow with old-world charm as its Christmas Market fills the historic streets with wooden stalls, mulled wine, gingerbread, and handcrafted ornaments. The Long Market will shimmer beneath festive lights, while carol concerts and winter activities turn the port city into a Baltic holiday fairytale. While it has all the staple ingredients of a typical Christmas market, it’s wrapped in a flattering bow of Polish seasonal tradition, putting it among the best in Europe right now.
Tomorrowland Thailand | Chonburi, Thailand | TBC December
Tomorrowland Thailand will bring its signature fantasy stages, world-class electronic acts, and immersive art installations to the tropical coastline of Chonburi. Festival-goers can dance beneath palm trees, dive into Thai street-food villages, and explore surreal themed worlds. With beach sunsets giving way to explosive lasers and fireworks, the event will merge Southeast Asian energy with Tomorrowland’s iconic spectacle.
Formula 1 Final – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix | Abu Dhabi, UAE | 4–6 December
The F1 season finale in Abu Dhabi will light up Yas Marina Circuit as championship battles reach their breaking point. Sunset racing, marina-side grandstands, and dramatic tight turns will set the stage for one of F1’s most glamorous showdowns. Off-track, fans can enjoy concerts, yacht parties, and Ferrari World thrills, turning the finale into a full desert-luxury celebration.
Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul) | Pampanga, Philippines | 13 December
This December, the Pampanga region just outside Manila will burst into light as towering, hand-crafted lanterns (some reaching several meters wide) spin, dance, and glow in synchronised displays. Each barangay will compete to outshine the others, merging engineering, artistry, and tradition. Visitors can expect street food, live music, and a festive warmth that transforms the city into the Philippines’ brightest and most dazzling holiday spectacle.
Natal Luz (Christmas of Lights) | Gramado, Brazil | TBC December
Get in the festive spirit at Natal Luz in Gramado as it becomes a glowing Alpine-style wonderland with parades, light shows, theatrical performances, and nightly fireworks. Visitors can stroll through illuminated plazas, explore Christmas villages, and enjoy concerts framed by Serra Gaúcha’s cool mountain air. The festival’s mix of Brazilian creativity and European-inspired charm will make it South America’s most magical holiday escape.
