Articles and Stories

May 21, 2015

By Amanda Scott

Planning a European summer vacation?  If so, here are some festivals you won’t want to miss.

White Nights Festival, St. Petersburg, Russia

Due to St. Petersburg’s northern location they experience round-the clock daylight from May until mid-July. The White Nights Festival takes place during this time and consists of a series of classical ballet, opera, and musical performances.

Bastille Day, France

The French celebrate this national holiday on July 14. It is a celebration of French culture and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in France. It includes a military parade, parties, and fireworks. A massive dance party takes place the night prior at Place de la Bastille.

Roskilde Festival, Roskilde, Denmark

This festival is a musical extravaganza and host to over 170 artist on eight stages. This year the fest runs from June 27th through July 4th and will attract over 150,000 music lovers. Popular artists such as Paul McCartney, Nicki Minaj, Muse, and Pharrell Williams will take to the stage in 2015.

Montreux Jazz Festival, Montreux, Switzerland

Jazz fans gather for this prestigious music festival that is held annually in early July. Although Jazz is an important part of the festival, many genres of music are represented. The festival grew from a three day event to a two week long festivity. The 2015 Montreux Jazz Festival will take place from July 3rd through July 18th.

Salzburg Festival, Salzburg, Austria

Another festival for the music fanatics, this one takes place over five weeks from July 18th to August 30th. People flock to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, to take in opera and theater.

Cowes Week, Cowes, England

Starting in 1926, Cowes Week is one of the longest running regattas. Featuring up to forty races, you can take in the action from the shore or upon a spectator boat. In addition to the sailing activities, the week includes other activities such as cocktail parties and live music. The regatta starts August 8, 2015 and culminates with a fireworks show that following Friday.

La Tomatina, Bunol, Spain

The world’s largest tomato fight is set to take place on August 26, 2015. 45,000 participants and 125 tons of tomatoes will take to the streets of Bunol. La Tomatina has made this small town know worldwide.

Notting Hill Carnival, London, England

Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street festival, takes over West London every August Bank Holiday weekend. This year that holiday falls on Aug 30th and 31st. Set to a Caribbean theme, the carnival includes Calypso music, tasty Caribbean treats, and a huge parade.

So if you haven’t booked your tickets yet, now is the time.