There’s no better time for travelers to get immersed in a culture than an event that celebrates individuality, whether through music or food, etc. If you are looking for a spur of the moment trip, why not go when there is a festival taking place? Here are some of the top festivals in the world to consider.
Austria: World Bodypainting Festival
If you visit Austria in July, be sure to visit the World Bodypainting Festival. Here, you’ll find a blend of art, fashion and music that attracts tens of thousands of visits every year. See the best bodypainting artists from 50 nations worldwide, with competitions in body paint, makeup and photography.
The event takes place July 1-3, 2016. For tickets and more information, visit www.Bodypainting-Festival.com.
Portugal: NOS Alive
If you are looking to travel to the Mediterranean city of Lisbon, you’ll be able to visit historical landmarks, sandy beaches, and happening bars. Along with all of these attractions, you’ll also find NOS Alive, an ultimate festival for people that love music. This three-day event is one of the best kept secrets in Europe, with a mix of culture, sea, and sun. Here, you’ll find big names like Radiohead and Arcade Fire, who are set to hit the stage this year.
NOS Alive takes place July 7-9th. For more information and tickets, visit www.nosalive.com.
Chicago: Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza started out as a travelling farewell to the band Jane’s Addiction before it settled down to live forever in Chicago’s Grant Park. During this music fest, you’ll find top names like Disclosure, Lana del Ray, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ellie Goulding and more. While visiting Chicago, be sure to indulge in some of their best eats in Chow Town and check out the eco-centre Green Street.
Lollapalooza takes place July 28-31st, 2016 in Chicago, IL. For more information visit, www.lollapalooza.com.
Croatia: Dubrovnik Summer Festival
Croatia hosts the music, dance, opera, and theatre at the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Walk along the city’s famous walls for views of the city and coastline for a once in a lifetime experience. You are sure to enjoy this cultural experience that pleases all of your senses!
For more information, vist www.dubrovnik-festival.hr/.
France: Midi Festival
The medieval hill town of Hyeres in the French Riviera serves as a base for the Midi Festival. During this event, you’ll find some of the world’s best-left field music. A few of the acts that will be there are Au Revoir Simone, Connan Mockasin, and Erol Alkan. The surrounding area features a racetrack, beach and arts centre for you to explore at your leisure. 2016 dates will be announced soon.
For more information and tickets, visit midi-festival.com/.
Finland: Wife-Carrying World Championships
If you are looking for something a bit bizarre, the wife-carrying contest in Market Square in Finland takes place each year on the first Saturday in July. Running since 1992, this festival has roots in the less humorous custom of pillaging neighboring villages for womenfolk. The best costume and the strongest carrier, the winning couple receives the woman’s weight in beer and a range of wife-carrying memorabilia.
For more information, visit www.sonkajarvi.fi.