Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Here are some of the best festivals in Europe for people who like to travel — and one extraordinary celebration in French Polynesia. No matter if you like internationally acclaimed jazz, electronic music, indigenous dances–these festivals are sure to provide you a real (and unforgettable) taste of tourism.
1. La Tomatina (Spain)
Held annually in the town of Buñol, La Tomatina is one of the most iconic festivals in Spain. Known for its massive tomato fight, this festival attracts thousands of tourists every August. The festival’s chaotic yet fun atmosphere provides a unique and entertaining experience for both locals and international travelers, driving tourism to the small town.
2. Oktoberfest (Germany)
Munich’s Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival and a major draw for both tourism and the travel industry. This iconic 16- to 18-day event, held every fall, attracts millions of beer lovers who come to enjoy traditional German beer, food, music, and Bavarian culture. It’s an essential part of Germany’s cultural heritage and a major source of tourism revenue for the region.
3. Carnival of Venice (Italy)
Held annually in Venice, Carnival of Venice is famous for its elaborate masks and costumes. The festival features a series of events, including parades, balls, and performances that highlight Venice’s cultural history. This centuries-old celebration is a major draw for international visitors looking to experience the romantic beauty of Venice, blending culture, history, and the arts in an unforgettable setting.
4. Edinburgh Festival Fringe (Scotland)
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival, held every August in Scotland’s capital. With thousands of performances across various genres, from theater and comedy to dance and music, the festival draws artists and tourism enthusiasts from across the globe. It’s an essential part of Scotland’s tourism economy, as the city sees an influx of visitors during the event.
5. San Fermin (Spain)
Best known for the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, San Fermin is a world-renowned festival held every July. Thousands of tourists flock to the Spanish city to watch the adrenaline-pumping bull runs, but it also includes traditional music, dance, and cultural activities. The festival brings significant tourism revenue to the region, making it a key event for Spain’s travel industry.
6. The Running of the Hares (Norway)
A quirky and unique festival, Norway’s Running of the Hares in the town of Kongsberg celebrates the local history and culture through a series of events that include races, parades, and community activities. This fun, offbeat festival attracts those looking for a more unusual travel experience in Scandinavia.
7. Fête de la Musique (France)
Held every year on June 21, Fête de la Musique celebrates music with free concerts, performances, and public gatherings across France, particularly in Paris. This global event promotes the diversity of music and allows tourists and locals to enjoy performances in parks, streets, and squares. It’s an accessible and fun way to experience French culture while attracting both tourism and local participation.
8. Amsterdam Light Festival (Netherlands)
The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual winter event that transforms the city into an open-air museum showcasing spectacular light installations and artworks. Held between November and January, the festival encourages tourism by offering visitors the chance to experience the beauty of Amsterdam in a new and enchanting light. The artistic approach to light also contributes to the city’s standing as a leading destination for travelers interested in arts and culture.
9. Dublin Horse Show (Ireland)
Ireland’s Dublin Horse Show, held every August, is one of the premier equestrian events in the world. The event attracts both tourism and professional riders, featuring competitions, show jumping, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a celebration of Ireland’s equestrian culture and brings substantial tourism traffic to Dublin each year.
10. Sziget Festival (Hungary)
Held every August on an island in the Danube River in Budapest, the Sziget Festival is one of Europe’s largest music festivals, featuring a wide range of genres and attracting international performers and audiences. The festival has a massive global following and brings a significant boost to Hungary’s tourism industry, with tens of thousands of international visitors flocking to the country every year.
These festivals not only provide exciting experiences for travelers but also play a crucial role in promoting tourism and driving economic growth in their respective countries. Whether celebrating music, culture, or history, these events showcase the diversity and rich traditions of Europe, making them an essential part of the global travel industry.
Concluding Remarks: The Best of European and World Festivals
The Montreux Jazz Festival, Exit Festival, Heiva i Tahiti and Tomorrowland are just some of the festivals that provide memorable ways to travel. Whether you’re in search of world-class jazz, electronic rhythms or a deep dive into local culture, these festivals offer a gateway to the world as seen through the kaleidoscope of music and culture.
For people in the tourism game, these aren’t minor holidays; they’re events that offer a vivid reminder of how festivals can change the nature of travel, drawing people from around the world and providing a particular kind of window into the soul of a place. Whether you’re a festival fiend or an event virgin keen to give it a whirl, there’s a celebration out there that will inspire you to try something different.
