It’s that time of year again, when music concerts swap sticky dive bar floors for well-tramped grass and enormous open-air stages. 2013’s festival season is finally upon us and to get in the mood, here are 10 of the world’s best. From America to Australia via Europe and Japan, just about every artist you can think of, is bringing their music to the great outdoors this year and the only question is, which one do you go to first?

1. Leeds & Reading Festivals, UK

A performance from Leeds Festival 2007. Photo credit: Sam Saunders via Flickr

Britain’s annual mud-baths-cum-music-festivals are as notorious for their riotous performances as they are for their unfortunate abundance of rainfall. Among the most popular are the Leeds & Reading Festivals.

Held simultaneously at two venues in the North and South of the country over the final bank holiday weekend of the summer (late August), with a rotating cast of bands, the two festivals have quickly reached legendary status among world rock fans. The audiences, renowned as one of the craziest festival crowds, make the festival, with the last evening routinely turning into a chaotic display of alcohol-fueled debauchery, as the festival campsites turn into one enormous party with campfires, fireworks, and impromptu mud sliding.

2. Lollapalooza, Chicago

Lollapalooza in downtown Chicago. Photo credit: tacvbo via Flickr.

Unashamedly meshing the mainstream with the indie, the bill for Chicago’s renowned Lollapalooza Festival reads like the ultimate record collection, with everything from little-known gems to major acts joining the party. Started up back in 2005, what Lollapalooza lacks in history it makes up for in sheer popularity with music fans from all over the country descending on downtown Chicago in early August to sate their musical appetites.

2013 looks set to be typically eclectic, as Black Sabbath fans descend on the venue to catch the bands much anticipated reunion, mixing with indie-pop kings Mumford and Sons, the Killers, Vampire Weekend, and the Lumineers.

3. Roskilde, Denmark

Crowd at Roskilde. Photo credit: Wouter Kiel via Flickr

Northern Europe’s largest open-air festival, Roskilde in Denmark has been running annually since 1971 and attracts over 90,000 music lovers over its 4 day run. A mere 30km outside of Copenhagen, the festival brings fans from Europe and all over the world to enjoy the mix of rock, pop, hip hop and electronica, mixing local bands with world renowned artists playing over 7 stages.

The festival has played host to everyone from Bob Marley to Nirvana over it’s 40 year reign, and this year’s headliners are set to continue making history with Bjork, Bon Iver, Jack White, and Bruce Springsteen all taking to the stage.

Read more: Tips for Attending Roskilde Festival in Denmark

4. Splendour in the Grass, Australia

Natural amphitheatre at Splendour in the Grass. Photo credit: Vinni123 via Flickr.

It may be winter in Australia but the sun is bound to be shining for the annual Splendour on the Grass festival, a short trip from hippie haven Byron Bay and one of the world’s largest eco-friendly festivals. The New South Wales concert stretches over 3 days and draws fans from all over the country for possibly the most chilled out rock concert known to man. It’s not just about the music here, there’s a natural beauty spa onsite, a kids relaxation area, and a shopping area nick-named the ‘very small mall’.

5. Benicassim Festival, Spain

Festival Internacional de Benicassim. Photo credit: Rafael Tovar via Flickr

In July, Spain’s East coast will become a hub of international music, as the Festival Internacional de Benicassim (FIB) descends on the unassuming coastal region. Attracting a massive 50,000 festival-goers over its 4 days, this is one festival that covers all bases when it comes to music genres.

This year’s line-up offers up more than 70 musical acts including the Kilers and Queens of the Stone Age.

6. Bonnaroo Festival, Tennessee

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. Photo credit: Jason Anfinsen via Flickr.

The Southern cousin of Lollapalooza and another favorite on the US Festival roster, Bonnaroo in Tennessee pits itself as more than just a music festival, with a vast array of arts and cultural programs. There’s certainly no shortage of entertainment over the festival’s 4 days, with 150 acts performing, an adjourning film festival, a silent disco, art installations, and live comedy capturing the attentions of over 80,000 campers. There are even free yoga classes, a complimentary hair salon, and the Broo’ers mini festival celebrating micro-brewed beers from all over the country.

This year’s line-up brings a veritable summer soundtrack of Wilco, Of Monsters and Men, Bjork,and dozens of the world’s best loved bands spanning rock, pop, country, and even some hip hop and electronica thrown in for good measure.

7. Summer Sonic Festival, Osaka, Japan

Large enthusiastic crowds at Summer Sonic. Photo credit: LuxTonerre via Flickr.

Musicians have long pegged Japan as one of their favorite places to perform, due in no small part to the wild enthusiasm of the crowds. Held simultaneously in Osaka and Tokyo over a weekend in mid-August, the Summer Sonic Festival is the biggest event on the calendar for Japanese music fanatics. There are no bounds to great music here, with a roster of rock, punk, hip hop, and pop keeping the crowd bopping well into early hours.

The 2013 line-up looks like its been lifted from the Billboard chart with some of rock’s finest like Metallica, Muse, and Smashing Pumpkins, who are sure to send the crowd into a frenzy. Make sure you catch some of Japan’s own rock bands too—legendary for their craziness.

Read more: Things to Do in Tokyo in Summer

8. Sziget, Budapest, Hungary

Sziget Festival 2009. Photo credit: opethpainter via Flickr

Eastern Europe’s coolest music festival, the Sziget Festival in Hungary has rapidly risen to the ranks of festival stardom, becoming one of the most exciting dates on the European calendar. The mammoth 7-day extravaganza leaves few left standing by its close. Hosted on an island on the river Danube in the center of Budapest, the festival is nothing if not unique—pitch your tent on the riverbank, stock up on €1.50 beers, and head to one of the infamous Hungarian bathhouses to spruce yourself up in between acts.

As for the entertainment, expect to be spoilt with variety—around 60 stages feature everything from rock to classical and there are film showings, art exhibitions, sports, all-night parties, and even a fairground; you can even learn to belly dance or go bungee jumping.

10. Rock Werchter, Belgium

Rock Werchter. Photo credit: Antonio Zugaldia via Flickr.

Belgians might be better known for sipping beer and whipping up some of the world’s most delicious chocolates, but these rock fans know how to get down and dirty in the mosh pit come festival season. Forget the cultural and artistic ethos of modern festivals; the Rock Werchter Festival in Belgium has been all about the music since it started up in the 1970s so expect some sweaty, beer-fuelled crowds connecting over a shared love of all things loud. It’s not all rock’n’roll though—the festival features everything from indie, pop and rock, to hip hop and dance, so there’s something for everyone.

Read about more festivals around the world

- Zoë Smith

9 of the Best Summer Music Festivals Around the World by Zoe Smith from Viator Travel Blog

Wine connoisseurs and foodies have plenty to get excited about this year, with a packed roster of gastronomic events taking place around the globe. From celebrity studded culinary masterclasses to grape-stomping competitions, here are 10 Wine and Food festivals that you don’t want to miss.

Food and Wine Classic, Aspen

Food and Wine Classic, Aspen. Photo courtesy of Aspen/Snowmass via Flickr.

One of the most prestigious epicurean events in the States, Aspen’s annual Food and Wine Classic festival is organized by the team of gastronomes behind the monthly Food & Wine Magazine and celebrated its 30^th anniversary in 2012. Each June, a world-renowned team of wine experts and celebrity chefs descend on the Rocky Mountains resort, bringing with them thousands of ravenous foodies to participate in a series of workshops, cooking competitions, parties and dinners. Most notable is the famous Grand Tasting Pavilion, showcasing a mouthwatering display of foods and wines from around the globe.

Festival Gourmet International

Mexico’s Festival Gourmet International

Mexico’s most popular food and wine extravaganza has been running for almost 20 years, with local restaurants inviting a roster of celebrity chefs to collaborate on a range of creative regional cuisine. Held annually in Puerto Vallarta, the Festival Gourmet International spans 10 days, during which each restaurant produces a special nightly menu, and activities include cooking workshops, talks and the famous Chef’s Hell-Raising Party.

Taste of Amsterdam

Taste of Amsterdam

The Netherlands might be better know for its coffee culture than as an epicenter of global cuisine, but the Taste of Amsterdam festival looks set to change that. The three-day festival is held in the capital each June, drawing around 15,000 food lovers to the city for a series of wine tastings, culinary demonstrations and food exhibits, culminating in a giant alfresco feast produced by a team of the city’s finest restaurants.

New Zealand’s Wildfoods Festival

Wildfoods Festival. Photo courtesy of eliduke via Flickr.

From the gourmet to the grotesque, even the most adventurous gastronomes will be amazed with the foods on offer at New Zealand’s annual Wildfoods Festival. Held each spring in Hokitika on the South Island’s West Coast, the wacky food festival is one of the most unique culinary events in the world, with a banquet of daring delicacies on offer. This isn’t one for the weak of stomach, but where else can you dine on sautéed Lambs’ testicles, snack on fried huhu grubs and wash it down with a side of Sheep brain? Even the drinks come with a twist – pressed flower wine or worm milkshakes, anyone?

Wurstmarkt Festival, Germany

Homemade German Sausages.

Renowned as the world’s largest wine festival, Germany’s Wurstmarkt, or ‘Sausage Market’, is the ultimate event for European wine lovers, with a long history dating back to 1417. Held on the second and third weekend of September in the town of Bad Durkheim in Germany’s Pfalz region, the Wurstmarkt pulls in crowds of over 600,000 visitors and features over 150 different wines from locations all over the country. Wine tasting is the main event, with a dedicated Wine Village and Winegrower’s garden set up to showcase local wines, two giant wine and beer halls, and dozens of Schubkärkchler – traditional tasting stalls where wine is served up with the region’s other specialty, homemade sausages.

World Gourmet Summit, Singapore

World Gourmet Summit. Photo courtesy of Camemberu via Flickr.

Singapore’s biggest food and wine festival has been bringing the gastronomic glamour to Asian shores for 16 years now, with 10 days of food themed events focusing on ethnic cuisines from around the world. Cooking workshops taught by master chefs, celebrity-studded charity dinners and tastings with world renowned winemakers are all on the schedule, but most impressive is the giant alfresco Gourmet Village and 5,000 square meter Gourmet market, where mere mortals can pick up the skills and ingredients to indulge their culinary creativity.

Good Food and Wine Show, South Africa

Capetown Vineyard

With annual events held in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg, there’s no excuse for missing South Africa’s largest and most popular food and wine show. The giant culinary industry exposition brings together internationally acclaimed chefs from all over the globe, for a weekend of gourmet events. Expect cooking demos and culinary art displays held in the four state-of-the-art Kitchen Theaters, wine tasting, hands-on cooking workshops and a gourmet restaurant area. Those with a sweet tooth will likely enjoy the annual gelato competition, whereas coffee drinkers can head to the dedicated coffee theater, host to the National Barista Championships.

Melbourne Food & Wine Festival

Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. Photo courtesy of Trupp Photography via Flickr.

Roving gastronomes have long had the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival on their agenda and the huge 20-day event is the biggest of its kind in the Pacific. Australia’s cultural capital has been hosting the event each March for over 20 years now, featuring the country’s most prestigious sommeliers and culinary masterminds in an array of food and wine centered events. Whether you’re interested in watching celebrity chef demonstrations, sampling artisan food products, attending gourmet gala dinners and Australian wine seminars, or taking a cooking master class, there’s something for all tastes and experience levels. Even if you don’t get tickets for one of the main events, the city will be going food-crazy throughout the festival, with farmers markets taking over the streets, fun family-friendly activities being held around town and special menus and promotions running at many of the city’s top restaurants.

Food & Wine Festival, Austin

Grapefest. Photo courtesy of apbutterfield via Flickr.

With so many Food and Wine Festivals taking place around the US, it’s hard to choose the best, but for a super size festival with bags of character, head to the Austin Food & Wine Festival. The Lone Star State casts away its Tex-Mex staples and barbecue grills for an annual weekend of gourmet cuisine and fine wine. Events include live cooking demonstrations from top culinary experts, wine seminars, live music and the legendary Grand Tasting Pavilion where over 80 wine, spirit and artisan food producers will be showcasing their products. Alternatively, wine lovers might prefer the annual autumn Grapefest – a riotous celebration of America’s 5th largest wine-producing state complete with endless wine tastings, an International Wine Garden, wine-themed culinary demonstrations and an hilarious grape-stomping contest.

Real Food Festival, London

Fresh knishes. Photo courtesy of citymaus via Flickr.

The UK hosts a plethora of food festivals but the most patriotic has to be the Real Food Festival, specializing in homegrown, sustainably and ethically produced food and wine from around the British Isles. Held each spring in London’s Southbank center, the 3-day festival celebrates the country’s most delicious food products with a series of events and tasters run by top chefs, farmers markets and live demonstrations. Visitors will get the chance to sample and purchase artisan cheeses, chutneys, meats, hand-made chocolates and a range of regional delicacies from around the UK. Even if you can’t make it for the annual mega-event, you can get a taste of London’s finest at the weekly Real Food Markets held along the Southbank waterfront.

-Zoe Smith

The 10 Best Wine and Food Festivals in the World by Zoe Smith from Viator Travel Blog

Dorsoduro. Photo courtesy of Ramón Cutanda via Flickr.

In the high season, Venice’s population doubles and the log jam on the main thoroughfares becomes almost unbearable, as thousands of tourists clog the alleyways between the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco. A short walk over the Ponte dell’Accademia crossing the Grand Canal, however, provides an escape route into one of the most enduring and increasingly fashionable districts of La Serenissima, Dorsoduro. Somewhat euphemistically translated as ‘high ridge’, it juts out from San Polo and lies to the South of San Marco with its tip almost opposite the Doge’s Palace.  It also embraces two islands across the canal to the south, Giudecca and the less fashionable, Sacca Fisola.

Cantine del Vino gia Schiavi. Photo courtesy of timsackton via Flickr.

Ambiance

What I adore about this district is its bohemian atmosphere, its relative tranquillity and its mix of students congregating around the campos near the University at Ca’ Foscari and locals relaxing outside the osterias and wine bars in the early evenings. Restaurant prices are much lower than those across the Grand Canal, service is much more cordial and the ambiance is friendly and unassuming. Stroll along the Fondamenta Nani next to the Rio di San Trovaso in the early evening and you will find locals and tourists congregating around the Cantina del Vino gia Schiavi and the smaller Al Squero sipping prosecco or spritz and sampling the crostinis, cichettis, rosettas and paninis. Nearby the Gelateria Lo Squero serves up its speciality pistachio gelato; recently Angelina Jolie herself was seen sampling the local ices there.

Near Santa Maria della Salute. Photo courtesy of Old Fogey 1942 via Flickr.

The Waterfront

A short walk away is the waterfront, Fondamente Zattere stretching all the way from the Maritime port to the church of Santa Maria della Salute (La Salute) at the tip of Dorsoduro guarding the entrance to the Grand Canal. Fish restaurants, bars and cafes look out over the Canal de Giudecca and the luxury hotels, home to the rich and famous on the island opposite during the Venice Film Festival. Vaporetti crisscross the canal and occasionally huge cruise ships ply their way slowly towards the lagoon towed somewhat precariously by fleets of tugboats. If you are in need of refreshment, sample the gianduiotto ice cream with its lashings of chocolate and cream in one of Venice’s oldest and most famous gelateria, Nico’s near the Ponte Lungo.

Nearby, at Santa Maria della Visitazione, look out for the lion’s head, bocca di leone, embedded in the church’s wall. The Doges wanted to encourage Venetians to denounce people who had committed crimes without fear of retribution and letters were signed in front of a witness then placed in the lion’s mouth surreptiously. If the crimes were deemed serious enough, the accused was arrested and tried. More often than not, however, it led to wrongful imprisonment and endemic paranoia and suspicion especially at times of plague.

San Travaso. Photo courtesy of dalbera via Flickr.

Gondolas

Dorsoduro is also the home to last remaining boatyard for gondolas in Venice and you can watch the squeraroli plying their centuries-old trade next to the San Trovaso church in Lo Squero. Gone are the days when some 10,000 gondolas monopolised transportation in Venice and today only 425 licences are issued for the whole network, with many handed down from father to son and new recruits having to pass an extremely arduous exam. The gondolas are built to precise specifications, painted the regulation black and made from 280 pieces of eight different types of wood. At the prow is an iron stabiliser, made of six metal combs (pettini) that represent the six sestieres, or neighbourhoods, that comprise Venice. The posterior pettini represents the island of Guidecca.

Until recently, the gondoliers were all male but in 2010 a mother of two, Giorgia Boscolo, became the first female to take up this trade. If you fancy a gondola ride, however, beware since they do not come cheap and cost €80 for 40 minutes (€110 after 19.00) and €40 to €50 for every twenty minutes after that. It pays, therefore, to go in a group.

Campo San Barnaba. Photo courtesy of Nick Bramhall via Flickr.

Churches

Dorsoduro also has some of the most beautiful but less frequented churches in Venice, which allows you to enjoy their solitude and charm far away from the crowds that swamp the churches around San Marco. In San Sebastiano, Veronese spent 10 years of his life painting almost every wall, the ceiling and even the organ and was eventually buried there. It is worth the visit just to see the wonderful sacristy and the magnificent paintings around the altar. You can also watch the painters meticulously and delicately retouch the wall paintings as part of the restoration programme funded by the New York-based Save Venice Inc.

Nearby, Chiesa dell’Angelo Raffaele, was immortalised by the British novelist, Sally Vicker in Miss Garnet’s Angel; and San Nicolo dei Mendicoli was used as the setting for Nick Roeg’s 1973 thriller, Don’t Look Now, starring Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie. San Barnaba was used as the exterior of the library in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade;  and in the 1955 film, Summertime, starring Katherine Hepburn who insisted on falling into the canal herself rather than use an understudy. Unfortunately, she contracted an eye disease as a result, which affected her for the rest of her life.

Ponte di Pugni

In contrast to the solitude and reverence of the churches, however, the Ponte di Pugni stretching over the Rio de San Barnaba, has a much more infamous past and was the site of the War of the Fists that took place between rival gangs in the 17th and 18^th centuries. These were huge fist fights numbering hundreds of fighters that were watched by thousands of spectators and supported financially by the nobility and church. They were principally between the Castellani who were shipbuilders from the Arsenale close to San Pietro di Castello and the Nicolotti, who were fisherman from the Western end of Dorsoduro near San Nicolo dei Medicoli. Although they started out with referees and some semblance of order, they soon disintegrated into all out battles where people were crushed to death or drowned in the canals. They were subsequently banned in 1705 when contestants and indeed spectators joined in with all manner of weaponry.

Entrance to the Peggy Guggenheim Museum. Photo courtesy of TracyElaine via Flickr.

Peggy Guggenheim Museum

The Peggy Guggenheim Museum sitting by the banks of the Grand Canal, however, blends beautifully into its surroundings and provides an oasis of calm serenity that belies the wonders of its art collection. The gardens of the single storeyed Palazzo Venier dei Leoni are filled with sculptures yet nevertheless remain unassuming and a place to relax or even write a message to a loved one and post it on a tree donated by Yoko Ono. Inside, you can wander around galleries filled with priceless collections of cubist, surrealist and abstract art including works by Picasso, Salvador Dali, Jackson Pollock, Francis Bacon, Jean Metzinger and Hans Arp; or eat in the wonderful cafeteria overlooking the gardens.

Galleria dell’Accademia

Whilst Dorsoduro’s attraction is its ambiance, it nevertheless does possess some very important tourist attractions. The Galleria dell’Accademia, just over the bridge across the Grand Canal, is one of the principal art galleries in Venice and in Italy. Despite its somewhat unglamorous appearance, it hosts major works by Bellini, Tintoretto, Veronese, Titian, Carpaccio and has Giorgione’s priceless Tempesta. Only 180 visitors are allowed at one time, so either go early or be prepared for very long queues. Further north is Ca’ Rezzonico, built in 1648, where Robert Browning spent his last days until his death in 1889 and was also rented by Cole Porter. This is a very grandiose Baroque Palazzo housing the museum of 18^th- century Venice and worth the entrance fee just to view the lavishness of the interior.

 ‘La Salute’

‘La Salute’, itself is also well worth a visit. Built to commemorate the plague that swept through Venice in 1630 and took 80,000 lives, it was designed by Baldassare Longhena when he was only 26, and took 50 years to complete and required some 100,000 pinewood logs to be driven vertically into the ground to support it. Quite apart from its immense structure its interior hosts two magnificent pieces of artwork, Tintoretto’s Wedding at Cana and Titian’s St Mark Enthroned with Saints Cosmos, Damian, Roch and Sebastian.

La Salute via Wikimedia Commons

Festivals

If you happen to be there on November 21^st, prepare yourself for the Festa dell Madonna della Salute when a bridge is constructed from San Marco to La Salute and the whole city turns out to celebrate the end of the plague and the survival of La Serenissima.  In the third week of July, a similar festival takes place when a bridge is constructed from Zattere to La Redentore on the island of Guidecca to celebrate the end of the plague in 1576 and culminates in a huge firework display that illuminates the whole city.

Dorsoduro. Photo courtesy of Toni Rodrigo via Flickr.

Dorsoduro is one of my favourite districts in Venice and one that I love to explore. Its magic is its variety, its vitality and its mixture of young and old, pensioners and students, locals and tourists, workers and art aficionados. We should also not forget, however, that it also plays host to a major prison, and the inmates’ voices can be heard resonating around the alleyways near the Venice University of Architecture faculty not far from the waterfront.

-Graham Walker

Planning a Trip? Browse Viator’s Venice tours and things to do, Venice attractions, and Venice travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Venice for a customized tour!

The Dorsoduro District of Venice by Graham Walker from Viator Travel Blog

There is nothing like attending mass in Saint Peter’s Square. It’s the stuff bucket lists are made of. Packed inside the little area are thousands of people from all over the world. This year, Easter mass and the events leading up to Easter will be especially busy in the Vatican.

Between the resignation announcement of Pope Benedict XVI and the inauguration of the new Pope Francis, Vatican City has been swarming with people – reporters, travelers, and the faithful who had some to see Pope Benedict XVI one last time, to be there when a new Pope was chosen, and then to see the inauguration of the new Pope Francis. Now that Pope Francis has officially become the leader of the Catholic Church, you might assume things at Vatican City will settle down, but it’s actually predicted that visitor numbers will continue to be much higher than normal during this time of year.

Learn how to book a Vatican tour.

St Peter’s Square

It is important to note, some of these events, especially those that require a seat, require tickets in advance. While these are not easy to come by, your best bet is to reach out to the American Seminary, or, if Catholic, asking your bishop. Here are the Easter Week dates for 2013.

Sunday, March 24, Palm Sunday and Passion of the Lord:  Start the week of services with this special event to kick off Holy Week in Rome. This Papal Mass takes place at Saint Peter’s Square at 9:30 a.m. The service includes the Blessing of the Palms, Procession and Holy Mass. Oftentimes the Pope will dedicate a portion of time to send a special message to the world’s youth.

Wednesday, March 27, Papal Audience: Pope Francis will give his first Papal Audience to the public on March 27.

Thursday, March 28, Holy Thursday: Beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the Vatican Basilica, this Chrismal Mass is a special event since morning mass is not the norm. Hours later, at 5:30 p.m., at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, there is the Mass of the Lord’s Supper and the beginning of the Paschal Triduum. This mass commemorates Christ bathing the feet of the Apostles.

Friday, March 29, Good Friday: Expect the crowds to really take shape today and continuing to pick up steam the entire weekend. At 5 p.m. at the Vatican Basilica, the Papal Mass takes place, celebrating the passion of the lord. Then, at 9:15 p.m. at the Colosseum, there is the Way of the Cross, where the Pope (and onlookers) traces the Stations of the Cross from the Colosseum to Palatine Hills in a torch-lit procession. Other than Easter Sunday’s Mass, this event is one of the most spectacular ones to attend.

Colosseum

Saturday, March 30, Holy Saturday: Get a spot early for this event, the Papal Mass and Easter Vigil, which begins at 9 p.m. During this Mass, those who have converted are accepted into the church.

Sunday, March 31, Easter: There are two morning services today. The first, the Holy Mass of the Day, is at Saint Peter’s Square at 10:15 a.m. Then, at noon at Central Loggia of the Vatican Basilica, is the “Urbi et Orbi” message and blessing.  By far, this is the crowning glory of all of these services. The Pope takes center stage in front of the visitors (of all faiths) and address the crowd in St. Peter’s Square. Amongst the historic structures, the Pope stands from his balcony overlooking the Vatican and speaks to those in attendance (and those watching along on television).

Read more about Easter at the Vatican and how to Celebrate Easter with the Pope

Sticking around after Easter? The week following the holiday is Culture Week. During this week, Rome’s city and state-run museums and galleries are free to enter. In addition, there are special events, concerts and more.

- Diana Edelman

Easter Week in Rome, Italy by Diana Edelman from Viator Travel Blog

There’s nothing quite like visiting a place when it’s in the middle of a party – especially if it’s the kind of celebration that doesn’t happen every year. In addition to the many festivals and events that occur annually around the world, there are some that are on a far less frequent schedule – some will only happen this year.

Here’s a selection of some of the must-see festivals and events happening exclusively in 2013.

Queen’s Day in Amsterdam

Queen’s Day celebrations

Amsterdam likes to party, and Queen’s Day on April 30 has long been an incredibly popular holiday on the Dutch calendar. In 2013, however, the holiday will take on added significance as Queen Beatrix announced in January that she will be abdicating the throne this year. Her son, Prince Willem-Alexander, will be “honored as King” on Queen’s Day this year. Although there aren’t any details yet about other specific changes to 2013’s festivities, you can bet this will be a Queen’s Day to remember.

British and Irish Lions Rugby Tour in Australia

Rugby game. Photo courtesy of jeremyfoo via Flickr.

Through June into early July, the British and Irish Lions Rugby Tour takes places at stadiums all around Australia (and one in Hong Kong). The nine-match tour has been 12 years in the making, and is expected to be the biggest rugby tour in Australian history, with 400,000 people expected to attend the games.

Take a sports lovers tour of Melbourne 

Venice Biennale

Art installation at one of Venice’s Biennales. Photo credit: ecosistema.urbano via Flickr.

Venice’s famous festival of the arts, the Biennale, gives away its schedule in its name. Every other year (always in the odd-numbered years), there are special art exhibits, theater and dance performances, and concerts. The festival starts in June and continues through November, which gives visitors a chance to skip the summer crush of tourists and still catch some of the exhibits. Check the schedule now to find out what sorts of things you can see, and plan to spend a couple of nights in Venice in order to take full advantage of the performances as well as the city itself.

Take an art tour of Venice 

International Festival of Music in Bogotá

Rock Al Parque. Photo courtesy of Yassef. via Flickr.

The folks at UNESCO do more than just add places to their list of heritage sites – they also declare various cities capitals of culture, music, and art (among other things). In 2013, Bogotá is a UNESCO City of Music – and we can think of no better way to honor that designation than by attending the debut edition of the city’s music festival. The 2013 International Festival of Music (I Festival Internacional de Musica de Bogotá, if you’re looking for the official Spanish name) is dedicated to all things Beethoven, and runs from March 27-30. Rock music more your thing? Head for Simón Bolivar Park during Rock al Parque, Bogotá’s annual rock festival (Latin America’s largest), which is held annually (typically in June-July).

Wagner’s Ring Cycle

Catch Richard Wagner’s music at orchestras all over the world. Photo credit: MITO SettembreMusica via Flickr.

200 years after Richard Wagner’s birth, orchestras all over the world will be staging performances of the composer’s entire Ring Cycle. The Berlin production (a partnership with Milan’s La Scala) is particularly notable, since Wagner was German and the conductor is a renowned Wagner expert, but almost regardless of where you are in the world, you’ll find a Ring Cycle production somewhere nearby. Music aficionados can check out performances in Seattle, Taipei, New York City, London, Bangkok, St. Petersburg, Palermo, Riga, Paris, Melbourne, and many more cities. Just be prepared for a multi-night event – it is, after all, roughly 16 hours of music.

The Gathering in Ireland

Ireland

There may never be a bad year to visit Ireland, but in 2013 the country is making a concerted effort to invite the millions of Irish descendants around the world to return for a sort of “family reunion.” Called “The Gathering,” the invitation lasts all year long and will feature different festivals, exhibits, and other events in different parts of the country – including special “clan gatherings” to really emphasize any Irish ancestry you might have. This is, after all, one of those countries in which most of us feel like family whether we’re Irish or not – but if you are Irish, 2013 is a stellar year to be in Ireland.

Book a multi-day tour of Ireland 

150th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg

Gettysburg. Photo credit: Donald West via Flickr.

Gettysburg National Military Park is marking the 150th anniversary of both the infamous Battle of Gettysburg and President Lincoln’s subsequent Gettysburg Address with a slate of events throughout 2013. There’s a lecture series, musical and theatrical performances, and a new exhibit featuring rare Civil War artifacts. From June 30-July 4 there will be several National Park Service programs to mark the official anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, and then on November 19 there will be a ceremony to mark the 150th anniversary of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.

Visit on a Gettysburg Day Trip from Washington DC

The Opening of the New Bay Bridge in San Francisco

Bay Bridge Construction. Photo courtesy of jitze via Flickr.

By the end of the year, San Francisco will be home to the world’s largest Self-Anchored Suspension Span (SAS) supported by a single 1-mile long main cable. The new East Span of the bridge cost more than $6 million to build and is expected to open on Labor Day weekend, an event marked by several celebrations, a foot race across the bridge, and the opportunity to walk across the bridge before it opens to vehicle traffic. More than 150,000 people are expected to walk across the bridge on Labor Day (paying a $37 toll to do so) so this is sure to be a great weekend to visit the city.

See the bridge from above on a San Francisco helicopter tour 

Sharjah Biennial

Sharjah. Photo credit: yeowatzup via Flickr.

One of the emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, Sharjah has long been regarded as a cultural capital. In fact, UNESCO named it the Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998. Sharjah’s biennial arts festival has been held in odd-numbered years since 1993, and in 2013 it runs from March 13-May 13. This 11th edition of the festival is called, “Re:emerge, Towards a New Cultural Cartography,” and nearly 100 artists have been selected to participate. There will be concerts, films, dance performances, and art exhibits – and 2013 is also the first year when the Sharjah Art Foundation will host the festival from its new Art Spaces, under construction since 2009.

500th Anniversary of Ponce de Leon Landing in Florida

Ponce de Leon statue in St Augustine. Photo credit: Dave via Flickr.

It’s hard to call it a “discovery” when there were already people living there, but it was 500 years ago that Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León landed at present-day St. Augustine and gave the place its name – La Florida. In 2013, there are special events throughout the state to mark the anniversary, including historic exhibits and lectures, parades, musical performances, scavenger hunts, a re-enactment of de León’s arrival on Melbourne Beach on April 2, and a Ponce de León celebration in St. Augustine from April 2-7.

Istanbul Biennial

Contemporary Art Exhibit at Istanbul Biennial. Photo courtesy of yellow book via Flickr.

Another arts festival that gives away its infrequency in its name is the Istanbul Biennial, held every two years (in the odd-numbered years). Istanbul’s festival focuses on contemporary arts, and runs from September 14-November 10 this year. 2013 is the 13th edition of the Biennial, and the concept this year is called “Mom, am I barbarian?” (the title refers to a book by Turkish poet Lale Müldür). As the festival won’t begin until mid-September, the program of events isn’t yet available – but in a city that’s becoming more and more art-centric every year, it’s a safe bet to assume that booking a trip to Istanbul for the Biennial will make any contemporary art lover smile.

Toronto Fringe Festival

Comedy at the Toronto Fringe Festival. Photo credit: Kevin Konnyu via Flickr.

You may be familiar with the huge Edinburgh Fringe Festival that takes place each August, but that’s not the only Fringe. In fact, Toronto’s Fringe Festival is in its 25th year in 2013. While it’s primarily a theater festival, The Toronto Fringe (like its Edinburgh cousin) also features musical performances, comedians, art displays, and childrens’ activities. This year’s Fringe will include more than 150 productions at 25 venues across Toronto from July 3-14.

Make the most of your visit with a Toronto City Pass 

200th Anniversary of “Pride & Prejudice”

Jane Austen’s house in Chawton. Photo credit: Herry Lawford via Flickr.

The house where Jane Austen was living when she penned one of England’s most beloved novels is an obvious destination for any Austen fan in 2013, 200 years after “Pride & Prejudice” was first published. The cottage in Chawton, however, is only one of the places around the world that’s celebrating Austen (and the novel) this year. Chawton is hosting “Pride & Prejudice” readings, writing workshops, “Pride & Prejudice” study days, musical performances, and even lace making classes. Elsewhere, you can attend a Jane Austen Festival in Louisville (USA), a “Pride & Prejudice” Festival in Cambridge (UK), “Pride & Prejudice” celebrations in Sydney and A.C.T. (Australia), and “Pride & Prejudice” readings in places as far afield as Brazil, Portugal, and Italy.

International Day of Happiness in Bhutan

Festival in Bhutan. Photo courtesy of jadis1958 via Flickr.

Many travelers have heard about how Bhutan measures its own success as a country not by the familiar “gross domestic product” but by what it called “gross national happiness,” or GNH. Last summer, Bhutan’s campaign to bring greater global awareness to GNH bore fruit – the United Nations declared March 20 the International Day of Happiness. 2013 will mark the first time the day has been recognized by the UN, and although there’s no indication yet that Bhutan will be holding any special events on March 20, the Bhutanese calendar is already crammed with national and local festivals – including several in March. Besides, where else would you rather be on the first International Day of Happiness than in the country that essentially invented it?

Read more about festivals and events around the world.

- Jessica Spiegel

14 Festivals and Events Worth Traveling For in 2013 by Jessica Spiegel from Viator Travel Blog

In a region of rolling farmlands, cows grazing in pastures and family-run orchards, it’s unsurprising that Normandy is renowned for its cuisine – even the region’s most famous exhibit, the Bayeux Tapestry, is filled with deftly embroidered banquets. The Norman palette is defined by local produce – rich, salted butters and creamy cheeses from local dairy farms; cider fresh from the apple orchards and an impressive array of seafood.

There are few things that the French enjoy celebrating more than their cuisine and Normans regularly don their traditional costumes and haul out the cider barrels in ode to their homegrown delicacies – a fun way for visitors to not only taste the food, but to get a sense of its history. From cheese-eating and shrimp-shelling competitions, to a procession of ships in honor of the mackerel harvest, here are 10 of Normandy’s most unique food festivals.

1. Festival of Norman Gastronomy, Rouen

Escargots. Photo credit: Fabio Sola Penna via Flickr.

The oddly named Fête du Ventre et de la Gastronomie Normande (literally: Festival of the Stomach and Norman Gastronomy) is a great introduction to the region’s historic foods, celebrating age-old culinary traditions alongside local produce. Held annually over a weekend in late October in the old market square of Rouen, the event dates back to 1935 when farmers the area and the neighboring Seine Valley would congregate in the town to feast on the best of the year’s harvest.

Today, hundreds of exhibitors line the streets, many dressed in traditional costumes and accompanied by their farm animals. Watch butter and cream being whipped up by hand, marvel over curious vegetables once used in ancient recipes, sip freshly brewed cider, and enjoy cooking demonstrations. Local seafood, apples and honey take center stage, alongside some more curious French delicacies like foie gras and stuffed snails, and they’ll be plenty of free tasters available.

2. Apple Festival, Vimoutiers

Cider in Normandy. Photo credit: Jérôme via Flickr.

The humble apple has long been a staple favorite in Normandy, with hundreds of acres of apple orchards throughout the region and a number of famed local apple varieties. Most celebrated are the acidic green apples that make Normandy’s famous Cider and regional specialties Calvados, an apple brandy, or Pommeau, an apple aperitif.

A number of apple festivals take place throughout the region, but the Foire de la Pomme in Vimoutiers is one of the most popular, featuring decorative barrel-making displays, cider tasting and competitions, and a range of food and artisan stalls. Apple lovers will discover there’s far more the fruit can turn its hand to than a simple apple pie – poulet au Calvados (chicken with apple-brandy sauce) is sure to be on the menu, or snack on apple fritters, apple crepes (pancakes) and a variety of creative apple breads and pastries.

3. Cheese Festival, Livarot

Livarot cheese. Photo credit: Alpha via Flickr.

Few products remain as quintessentially French as cheese and you’ll be hard pushed to find a Frenchman who doesn’t revel in the country’s number 1 export. Normandy is home to a number of renowned cheeses, most famous of which is Camembert, and regional villages host several festivals devoted to local cheese.

Best of the bunch is the Foire Aux Fromage (cheese fair) held in Livarot each August. The town might be most renowned for its eponymous cheese, but they’ll be a range of produce on offer – Camembert, Pont l’Evêque, the spicy Pavé d’Auge and creamy Neufchâtel are sure to be available, and look out for ‘Fromage de Monsieur’ created in Rouen by the aptly named Monsieur Fromage (Mr. Cheese). The big event however, is the cheese-eating competition where hardy farmers compete to consume as much Livarot cheese as possible in a 15-minute time frame. Past winners have downed a belt-popping 2 kilos!

4. Shrimp Festival, Honfleur

Shrimps, or Crevettes, as they are called in French, are the food of honor at Honfleur’s annual Fête de la Crevette held each fall. Get your hands dirty by joining in the shrimp peeling competitions; explore the ancient fishing vessels moored along the banks of the Vieux Bassin d’Honfleur harbor; enjoy seafood cooking demonstrations and sample a variety of shrimp-themed dishes to the tune of local musicians. Be sure to try the famous ‘little gray’ shrimps, too – a regional favorite.

5. Honey Festival, Clères

The botanical and zoological gardens of Parc de Clères host an annual Fête du miel (Honey Festival) where visitors can get up close with the bumblebees in the park’s apiary. Held in March, the festival aims to not only educate guests on the art and science of beekeeping, but to allow hands-on experience with the beehives, honeycomb collecting and honey making. If you prefer to steer clear of the bees themselves, you can take a honey cooking class or head for the sample stalls instead, where you can purchase a range of homegrown honey products and taste a variety of honey-infused treats.

6. Herring and Scallop Festival, Dieppe

Coquille Saint-Jacques. Photo credit: david__jones via Flickr.

Dieppe’s annual Foire aux Harengs et de la Coquille Saint-Jacques (Herring and Scallop Fair) is held on the last weekend of November, attended by crowds of 100,000. In ode to the region’s ‘red label’ scallops (designating the highest quality in French food), the fair offers an incredible assortment of seafood cooked up creative marinades and quirky spice blends. Explore the exquisite boats displayed in the harbor, watch cooking demonstrations and buy paper cupfuls of smoked herrings to munch on while you enjoy the live entertainment.

7. Festival of Ancient Cider Making, Orne

Calvados distillery. Photo credit: iamkaspar via Flickr.

You can’t visit Normandy without at least a sip of the famous local beverage – cider has been produced in the region since the 1600s and it’s renowned as the best in the country. It’s the ancient art of cider making that’s celebrated at the Fête du Cidre à l’Ancienne each November, offering a fascinating glimpse into historic production methods. Local farmers get in the spirit with traditional dress and a number of ancient machines are resurrected for the festival.

An enormous ancient apple press and an 18thcentury wooden gadage (horse-driven mill) take center stage, producing fresh apple juice throughout the day. Visitors can also learn how to distill cider into Calvados apple brandy; taste a range of flavored and hot ciders; sample regional foods and enjoy plenty of street entertainment from traditional dancers to live music.

Read more about drinking cider in Normandy

8. Black Pudding Fair, Mortagne-au-Perche

Black pudding. Photo credit: Roberto Verzo via Flickr.

A sausage made from blood, fat and onions might not be cause for celebration for the weak of stomach (or vegetarians for that matter), but lovers of black pudding flock to this fair, where the prestigious ‘International Black Pudding Championships’ have been held since 1963. La Foire au Boudin is held each March, drawing hundreds of butchers from all over Europe to compete for the title of the ‘best pudding’ – a much coveted accolade amongst those in the know.

Today’s 3-day event sells over 5km of black pudding, in an unbelievable array of varieties – raw onion and brandy black pudding, black pudding pocked with raisons, prune and apple black pudding and even a chocolate black pudding were all on last year’s menu.

9. Carrot Festival, Créances

Vegetarians choosing to avoid the Black Pudding Fair might prefer the distinctly less grisly Carrot Festival (Fete de la Carotte), held yearly on the second Saturday of August in the small town of Créances, supposedly the producer of the ‘finest carrots in France’. A small celebration in comparison to some of the region’s other festivals, the event is none-the-less unique, featuring vegetable displays and competitions, a cooking competition, live music and a parade of carrot growers.

10. Mackerel Festival, Trouville

Mackeral. Photo credit: New Brunswick Tourism via Flickr.

For a peek into the hearts and minds of Norman sailors, head out to the diminutive fisherman village of Trouville for the annual Fête de la Mer et du Maquereau (Sea and Mackerel Festival). Held each July to celebrate the seafood harvest the weekend festival revolves around the traditional blessing of the boats and sailors, decorating the vessels with flowers as they sail through the harbor.

A mass of seafood tasters (make sure you sample the region’s famous grilled mackerel), stalls selling sea-related crafts, local choirs singing sea shanties, and a memorial for those who’ve died at sea, all provide interest, but to really get into the spirit, join the fishermen on their boats on the final day and help bring in the season’s first catch of Mackerel.

 - Zoe Smith

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Normandy tours and things to do, Normandy attractions, and Normandy recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Bayeux for a customized tour!

10 Mouth-Watering Food Festivals of Normandy, France by Zoe Smith from Viator Travel Blog

Most of us are familiar with some of the most famous Carnival celebrations in the world – Rio, Venice, and New Orleans among them. But Carnival is celebrated all over the world in nearly any place that has a strong Catholic background, so there are plenty of places where you can enjoy Carnival festivities even if you’re not in Brazil or Louisiana this year.

Here are the countries with some of the more interesting Carnival celebrations around the world.

Salvador, Brazil

Carnival in Brazil

Sure, we’ve all heard about Carnival in Rio, but there are celebrations in other parts of Brazil, too. One of the other cities that does Carnival in a big way is Salvador, where the traditional Brazilian dancing is accompanied by live Bahia music performed by bands carried on the back of big trucks through the city center. Virtually anywhere you go in Brazil during Carnival, however, you’ll find some kind of party.

Ivrea, Italy

Post-orange fight in Ivrea. Photo credit: Sebastiano Rossi via Flickr.

Venice’s Carnival masks and ornate costumes are legendary, but for something even more strange in Italy you’ll need to visit the town of Ivrea during Carnival. Ivrea’s Battle of the Oranges pits orange-throwing teams against one another. It’s a food fight of epic proportions. The town of Viareggio takes a more stately approach toward Carnival, with its parades of caricatures of famous people.

Binche, Belgium

Carnival masks in Binche, Belgium. Photo credit: Véronique Mergaux via Flickr.

You’d be forgiven for thinking, “Carnival? In Belgium?” But the Carnival in Binche, Belgium dates back several centuries and is now on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Binche celebrates with three days of parades, during one of which men known as Gilles, dressed in colorful costumes and clogs, throw blood oranges into the crowds.

Oruro, Bolivia

Carnival in Oruro, Bolivia. Photo credit: bjaglin via Flickr.

Another Carnival celebration that makes UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List is La Diablada Carnival in Oruro, Bolivia. The Diablada is a particular dance that features prominently in Oruro’s Carnival parades, when nearly 50 different groups of dancers form a procession each Saturday during Carnival. The religious roots of Oruro’s celebrations date back to pre-colonial times, when the indigenous people would make offerings to Mother Earth and a God of the Mountains.

Moscow, Russia

Caviar blini. Photo credit: Bolshakov via Flickr.

Cold places aren’t ideally suited to scantily clad parade dancers, but the weather lends yet another reason for a celebration that’ll warm the spirit. So in Moscow, the week before Lent is marked by locals stuffing themselves silly on the thin pancakes known as blini. Moscow’s Carnival-esque week is called Mslenitsa, translated as either “Pancake Week” or the even more fattening “Butter Week,” and celebrations also include masquerade balls and outdoor winter sports.

Mazatlán, Mexico

Carnival celebrations in Mazatlán. Photo credit: Frank Kovalchek via Flickr.

Mexico celebrates Carnival in cities throughout the country, but the biggest Carnival celebration happens in the seaside city of Mazatlán. Some smaller towns incorporate the indigenous traditions of those towns, but in Mazatlán the Carnival celebrations are similar to the ones you’ll see in other parts of the world, with costumes, parades, and live music. The popular local blend of Mexican and polka music, called Banda, is what you’ll hear most often during Carnival in Mazatlán.

Goa, India

The Indian state of Goa is well-known for its festive atmosphere, so it shouldn’t be surprising to learn that Goa is home to India’s biggest Carnival celebration, too. This is partly thanks to the influence left from Portugal’s centuries of rule over Goa, and partly thanks to Goa’s modern residents who have incorporated their own Hindu elements into Carnival. Carnival in Goa lasts for three days, during which you’ll see fireworks and parades of costumed characters, as well as revelers dumping buckets of colored water on spectators.

Nice, France

Carnival parade in Nice. Photo credit: Deb Collins via Flickr.

Residents of Nice will tell you theirs is the oldest Carnival celebration in the world, dating back to 1294. Whatever the truth of that statement is, Carnival in modern Nice is a great spectacle with parades of huge floats over multiple days during the festival, which lasts more than two weeks. Nice’s party may not be as famous worldwide as that of New Orleans or Rio, but it’s well-known enough to attract more than one million revelers each year.

Trinidad and Tobago

Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago. Photo credit: Jean-Marc via Wikimedia Commons.

The capital of Trinidad and Tobago claims to have the biggest Carnival celebration in the Caribbean, and although some of the elements are familiar – outlandish costumes and big parade floats – some are unique combinations of Catholic and local features. Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago lasts for months, with a Carnival Steel Pan competition happening before Carnival, so to really get the full flavor of the festival you might want to plan to stay awhile.

Quebec City, Canada

Snow sculptures in Quebec. Photo credit: meddygarnet via Flickr.

Carnival is a moving target, the dates changing each year with the Catholic calendar, but in Quebec City they’ve removed the date-related confusion. Quebec’s Winter Carnival is held in late January/early February each year, and highlights include ice and snow sculptures as well as a variety of outdoor winter sports. You won’t see the skimpy Rio-style attire in Quebec, but you can attend a masquerade ball (indoors!) and stay warm with Caribou, a heated drink made of wine, whiskey, and maple syrup.

Portugal

Carnival costumes in Portugal. Photo credit: Rosino via Flickr.

Portugal might have exported its Catholicism to places like Brazil, thereby influencing the original Carnival celebrations there, but these days Portugal has imported Brazilian-style Carnival traditions back across the pond. Carnival celebrations differ across the country, but most Portuguese regions incorporate things like elaborate costumes and samba parades. In some regions, large masks or figures are made and then burned in big bonfires.

- Jessica Spiegel

Carnival Celebrations Around the World by Jessica Spiegel from Viator Travel Blog

Taking place on January 26th every year, Australia Day commemorates the First Fleet in Sydney Cove in 1788. Australia Day is typically celebrated by Australians heading outdoors, to the beaches or to the backyard for a barbecue and a couple of beers. Think of it much like American Independence Day as it also happens in the middle of summer in Australia and produces a national holiday full of celebration, including fireworks.

In case you’re a visitor to the great land Down Under (or an Aussie traveler), we have decided to produce a list of activities you can take part in besides the typical Aussie barbecue no matter where you might be traveling on the big day. All of these options have been chosen to help people get better acquainted with the country that is being celebrated.

Sydney

Fly over Sydney in a helicopter

1. Cruise the Sydney Harbour

Because the big fireworks show is happening in Darling Harbour,the best vantage point is on a boat! The Australia Day Tall Ship Cruises on Sydney Harbour takes travelers for a leisurely run around Sydney before docking for dinner and the show. Otherwise, any daytime cruise of the harbor is worthy of an Australia Day celebration. Just getting outdoors to enjoy the iconic summer weather does the trick. Try the Sydney Harbour Cruise with Goat Island Walking Tour to learn more about Australia’s history and founding.

2. Enjoy a show at the Sydney Opera House

With no landmark more iconic to the city of Sydney than the Sydney Opera House, enjoying a show makes for a great way to spend your day off on Australia Day. La Soiree is set to run on January 26th, and you can get your ticket and behind-the-scenes experience by purchasing the Summer at the House Performance Ticket and Tour option right here on Viator.

3. Head to higher ground

Gaining a new perspective of the country being celebrated on Australia Day can start right in Sydney. The Sydney BridgeClimb takes brave souls to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge – a whopping 440 feet (134m) above the water. A more leisurely option is to explore the great city by helicopter.

4. Hang with the local wildlife

It is often a joke that the giraffes at the Sydney Taronga Zoo have the best views of Sydney city, but visitors tend to stop laughing when they discover this statement is based on fact.  The zoo across the harbor has done a great job at snatching up both prime real estate as well as a well-rounded selection of animals from Australia and from across the globe. Get in touch with the country through its unique wildlife on Australia Day by purchasing the Taronga Zoo General Entry Ticket.

Melbourne

Celebrate Australia Day in Melbourne

5. Ride and dine on a famous tram

Trams are a distinguishing feature of Melbourne city, and some entrepreneurial people decided to put a restaurant on an older model. Now, you can explore South Melbourne, St Kilda, Prahran and Malvern while enjoying a delicious dinner on the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant Tour. Sounds like an interesting way to spend the Australia Day holiday, right?

6. Get on the water

The Yarra River flows alongside the lands of Melbourne making it a prime target for a place to relax and celebrate the country of Australia on Australia Day. Getting on the water is an activity done in true Aussie spirit, and you can do so on the Yarra by partaking in a 2-3 hour Melbourne Kayak Tour or a Spirit of Melbourne Dinner Cruise.

7. Take in the scenery from the perfect vantage point

Tall buildings, bridge summits and rooftops don’t have anything on the best vantage point of all:  the sky.  Spend your Australia Day in true awe of the scenery below by partaking in a Melbourne Balloon Flight at Sunrise. Soar directly over the city as the sun slowly lights up the sky. The perfect way to start a holiday celebration – unless, of course, you’re taking the scenic route of a Melbourne Helicopter Tour instead.

8. Tour the Yarra Valley wine country

Taking just an hour to get to the relaxing and picturesque Yarra Valley from Melbourne, a day trip with the Yarra Valley Wine and Winery Tour is on the menu for wine enthusiasts. Explore the top wineries of the region, get tasting tips, loads of nibbles and a full lunch in the middle. Even better, get the peace and serenity that comes from venturing away from the city – a place that is sure to be full of action given the holiday festivities.

Brisbane

Enjoy Brisbane by night on a dinner cruise

9. Enjoy a fancy dinner

Australia knows a good restaurant. Ever since the Master Chef explosion a few years ago, food has become a trendy night out for people of all ages while chefs have skyrocketed into national stardom. Choose from meals at the likes of Aria, Moda, or Alchemy to name a few. Fancy restaurant or not on Brisbane soil, a Brisbane River Dinner Cruise still offers a special occasion meal out on the water.

10. Get a feel for Moreton Island

Moreton Island lies 36 miles from Brisbane city, but it attracts visitors regardless because of its unique getaway vibe. Resembling Fraser Island, as it is largely composed of sand, top attractions here include 4WD excursions, along with camping and fishing.  From Brisbane, catch the Moreton Island Snorkel and Sand Boarding 4WD Day Trip, or the Tangalooma Resort Moreton Island Day Cruise, with the option for dolphin feeding if you choose!

11. Tackle adventure from morning to night

Australia Day is a full day affair, so why not make your adventures a full day as well?  You can start off in Brisbane with a Hot Air Ballooning Experience (with Champaign breakfast if you choose), have a break for a mid-day barbecue with friends before attempting the famous Brisbane Story Bridge Climb at night.

Perth

Take a Perth Helicopter Tour on Australia Day

12. Get acquainted with the animals of Western Australia

While Australia already possesses a range of unique wildlife, Western Australia has a few of those on its personal list alone. If you’ve never heard of a quokka, I suggest looking these chipmunk like creatures up for a closer view. Or, take advantage of the Full Day Rottnest Island tour including Wildlife Cruise so you can get over and check them out in real life. In addition, the wildlife cruise will help you spot dolphins, seals and sea birds along the way. If you can’t make it up to Exmouth for a chance to swim with whale sharks, swimming with dolphins off the coast of Rockingham makes for a good substitution.

13. Take a breather in the Swan Valley

One of the beautiful features of the Swan Valley is its close proximity to Perth city. It’s just a 25 minute journey by car to get from downtown to the middle of peaceful Swan Valley – a place chock full of microbreweries, wineries and other delicious spots. Another perk is the ability to travel by boat along the Swan River to get there. Try the Swan Valley Lunch Cruise for that option. If food is what you’re after, then you’ll be interested in the Swan Valley Tour from Perth with Wine Beer and Chocolate Tastings.

14. Explore Perth by air

Just like any coastal region of Australia, getting up in the air brings a world of awe. You can explore the city of Perth by helicopter, all the way from Perth to Fremantle and Cottesloe Beach. Choosing a longer helicopter ride will give you the possibility to explore the surf beaches south of Fremantle as well.

15. Discover Fremantle’s cafe culture

Once a fishing port, Fremantle has transformed itself into a cute city with a large cafe culture and lots of artistic flair. By joining up with the Small Group History of Fremantle Walking Tour, you can discover this city and its history in a matter of about 2 hours. It even includes a visit to the Fremantle Prison, an UNESCO World Heritage listed site.

Gold Coast

16. Hug a koala

Celebrate Australia Day with a hug from a koala!

It’s one of the iconic animals of Australia that little girls around the world dream of cuddling at least once in their lives. Live the dream at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, and do a lot of other Australian-specific activities like watching a crocodile feeding or petting a kangaroo, too. Visitors can also take advantage of the high ropes course, full of zip lining and detailed maneuvering.

17. Escape to the islands

The Gold Coast is a bustling strip of beach towns known especially for its party culture. When not in the mood for a Surfers Paradise overcrowded beach experience, get out and enjoy island life – the perfect, relaxing way to spend your Australia Day. Stradbroke Island lies just 35 minutes from Gold Coast when taking a boat, and the Stradbroke Island Day Trip will have you deep in the wilds near a private beach in no time. Another option is to hit up Island Swim and Snorkel Cruise to Wave Break Island – an island uninhabited but perfect for swimming and snorkeling the day away.

18. Visit the Q1 Tower

The Q1 Tower is home to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Located on the 77th floor, this observation point provides a 360 degree panorama of the Gold Coast area with perfect beach views of Surfers Paradise reaching all the way back to the Gold Coast Hinterland in the opposite direction.  In addition to being a simple observation deck (with cafe and bar of course), visitors can choose to sign up for the SkyPoint Climb – Australia’s tallest external building climb. And, if that’s too much excitement for one day, be sure to head down to the bottom level and seek out the Q1 Spa for a relaxing massage.

19. Get a taste of Gold Coast thrills

We’ve already mentioned the SkyPoint Climb at the Q1 Tower in the previous point, but that doesn’t even begin to explore the thrilling possibilities in the Gold Coast. There are roller coasters galore at Dreamworld, water slides at White Water World, and jet skies out on the water. A dual thrilling experience to sign up for is the Gold Coast Helicopter Flight and Jet Boat Ride.

Hobart

Tasman Peninsula

20. Take a detour to Bruny Island

Bruny Island lies to the south of Tasmania and presents itself as more of a day trip kind of destination. One can easily explore from Hobart with the Full-Day Bruny Island Tour, which includes a 3 hour cruise along the coast as well as explorations on the island itself.  The South Bruny Island is home to the South Bruny National Park, which is known for being a great bird haven.

21. Spend the day at Mount Wellington

Whenever in Hobart, the nearby Mount Wellington is always in view, towering next to the city with its often snow-capped tops.  Visitors and locals are able to drive to the top on a sealed road, but many use the chance to get a real dose of exercise by walking to the top.  Once there, a great (and adventurous) way of making it back down is by signing up for the Mount Wellington Descent Cycling Tour.

22. Step onto a yacht

The popularity of yachting and sailing in Tasmania is visible just by peeking into the many harbors surrounding the state. Plus, there is that whole Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race that takes place every year. Now, Australia Day can be your chance to step onto a yacht yourself for a Half Day Sailing Tour on the Derwent River.

23. Explore Port Arthur

Port Arthur’s historical nature makes it a perfect Australia Day destination. Visitors can reach this former convict settlement by taking the Full Day Tasman Peninsula Tour from Hobart, which will also include a 3 hour scenic coastal cruise, lunch and stops at many attractions along the way.

Cairns

Meet kangaroos on the Kuranda Scenic Railway Day Trip

24. Venture to Kuranda in the rainforest

Kuranda, known as the Village in the Rainforest, lies to the west of Cairns. Once there, visitors can explore the markets, visit a butterfly sanctuary, and watch an Aboriginal cultural show, but that’s not the best part of the trip in our opinion.  Taking the scenic railway one way and the cable cars the other means you literally get to sit above the canopies and get panoramic views of Cairns in the distance. Try the Kuranda Scenic Railway Day Trip for most of these options in one.

25. Learn about the Aboriginal culture

While Australia Day is more about celebrating the birth of the country as we know it today, perhaps a jaunt further into history would help provide the full picture. We’re referring to the Aboriginal culture, and several options are available near Cairns to help you learn more.  The most unique one overall would have to be the Flames of the Forest Dining Experience that includes Aboriginal music and storytelling.

- Brooke Schoenman

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Australia tours and things to do, Australia attractions, and Australia travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Australia for a customized tour!

25 Ways to Celebrate Australia Day by Brooke Schoenman from Viator Travel Blog

As the Christmas lights start to fade and the holiday season is coming to an end, there’s still one final bash to send out 2012. With the New Year just around the corner, now’s the time to make your New Year’s resolutions, drink away the last year’s regrets and celebrate starting all over again in 2013. From riotous street parties and fireworks extravaganzas, to marching bands and torchlight processions, here are 20 of the best New Year’s Eve parties from around the world.

1. New York City

Celebrate New Year's Eve in NYC!

Few places rival the atmosphere of New Year’s Eve in New York City, home to one of the night’s most memorable events – the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. A custom dating back to 1907, the iconic ball – a 12ft glittering sphere weighing 11,875 pounds – is dropped each year at the turn of midnight from a flagpole on top of One Times Square, as the square is blitzed with 1 ton of shimmering confetti.

One of the world’s most electric New Year’s Eve parties, Times Square draws in over a million revelers to countdown the seconds to the New Year, as well as being broadcast live to millions of viewers around the world. Celebrity music acts, an enthralling pyrotechnic lightshow and the popular New Year’s Eve Wishing Wall, where partygoers can write down their hopes for the New Year, add to the festivities. If you prefer to escape the masses, book a table at one of the bars or restaurants overlooking the Square, or opt for a boat cruise from New York Harbor where you’ll get a great view of the midnight fireworks set off from Liberty Island.

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2. Paris

Paris lives up to its ‘city of lights’ nickname come New Year’s Eve, with fireworks dazzling the city streets and thousands of party-goers hitting the streets, bars and clubs to see in the Nouvelle Anné. In the heart of the city, the Eiffel Tower forms the centerpiece for a spectacular lightshow and fireworks display, and the surrounding Champs-Elysees area comes alive with a massive street party. Expect handfuls of popping papillotes (chocolates that set off like firecrackers when opened), lots of obligatory cheek kissing and gallons of France’s most popular export – Champagne.

For less-crowded celebrations, get a great view of the fireworks from the Montmartre artist district; take a romantic boat cruise along the Seine or tuck into a decadent New Year’s menu at the infamous Moulin Rouge.

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3. London

Watch Big Ben strike midnight in London

One of the last capitals in Europe to see in the New Year, London pulls out all the stops for the biggest party of the year. Over 250,000 people cram along the boats and banks of the River Thames and its surrounding bars and restaurants for a prime view of the night’s events. As the epic countdown begins and Big Ben strikes midnight, the city erupts in a dramatic 10-minute lightshow and firework display, set to a backdrop of the towering London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster.

Festivities don’t end on New Year’s Eve though – a 3-hour parade takes to the streets of central London on New Year’s Day, with colorful floats, marching bands, costumed dancers and a procession of the Queen’s horses.

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4. Hawaii

One of the last places in the world to enter the New Year, New Year’s Eve in Hawaii is sure to be a party worth waiting for. Bring in 2013 on the beach, with glittering fireworks displays illuminating the beachfronts at Aloha Tower, Waikiki, and Ko Olina on Oahu; Wailea, Hana, and Manele Bay on Maui; and Poipu Beach on Kauai. Beachside bars and clubs will be in full swing for the New Year, with theme nights, open-air music concerts and boat cruises all offering unique ways to party into the early hours.

Book a New Year’s Eve cruise or show in Hawaii

5. Vienna

New Year's Eve in Vienna. Photo credit: Andreas Perhab via Flickr.

With its snow-trimmed streets still aglow with festive illuminations and the city’s famous Christmas markets transformed into New Year fairs, Vienna is an atmospheric place to spend New Year’s Eve. Hundreds of thousands take to the streets of Vienna to witness the city’s fireworks at the Wiener Prater fun fair, but the city also hosts over a vast number of balls, galas and concerts that bring a touch of old age elegance to the proceedings. If you can’t get tickets to the glamorous ‘Grand Ball’ at Hofburg Palace, take in a classical concert, Burlesque show or dinner party cruise along the Danube.

Be sure to save some energy for the day after, when a huge crowd gathers in front of the City Hall to watch the famous New Year’s concert from the Vienna Philharmonic on a giant TV screen.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at an Austrian Wine Tavern and read more about New Year’s Eve in Vienna

6. Melbourne

Hosting more than half a million people, Melbourne’s vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations feature two official fireworks displays, with celebrations starting off the evening in Yarra Park. The city’s impressive midnight display showers the entire city with color, with rockets launched from rooftops around central Melbourne and the Victoria Harbour. There’s plenty to do on New Year’s Eve too – music stages around the city host a variety of live acts; carnival rides and sporting activities make up the family precinct in Yarra Park; Federation Square hosts indigenous folk musicians and Brazilian samba dancers; while street performers and celebrity appearances along the waterfront keep spirits high right up until midnight.

Ring in the New Year in Melbourne with a cruise and read more about New Year’s Eve in Melbourne

7. Sydney

Fireworks show for New Year's Eve in Sydney. Photo credit: Rob Chandler via Flickr.

One of the world’s first cities to celebrate the New Year, Sydney’s fantastical New Year’s Eve lightshow is renowned around the globe. The towering Sydney Harbour Bridge is the centerpiece for celebrations with two fireworks displays set off from river barges and rooftops, and elaborate pyrotechnic displays setting Sydney Harbour and the iconic Opera House on fire. The evening of entertainment includes aerial acrobatics, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander smoking ceremony (said to cleanse the evil spirits of the past year) and an Acknowledgement of Country presentation, culminating in the magnificent Harbour of Light Parade™ – a mass flotilla of illuminated boats choreographed throughout the harbor.

Book a Sydney New Year’s Eve tour or activity

8. Whistler

For an action-packed New Year’s Eve, Whistler makes the perfect location to tick some winter adventures off your bucket list. Spend the day snowboarding or snowmobiling, check out the free Festival of Lights exhibit at Millennium Place, then hit the icy lakes for a moonlit ice skate to kick start the celebrations.

Whistler village hosts a number of New Year’s Eve Events, with a roster of free entertainment, live music and arts in the conference center, and the village square getting in the party mood with fire dancers, DJs and an extravagant fireworks display at midnight. Alternatively, celebrate the New Year with a view, with dinner at on the summit of Blackcomb mountain where you’ll be able to watch the fireworks from 6,000 feet (1,829 meters) above.

Book a New Year’s Eve Snowcat Excursion with Mountaintop Fondue Dinner

9. Edinburgh

The Scottish capital is well known for hosting some of the liveliest New Year’s Eve events in the world, celebrating with a massive 4-day festival, known as ‘Hogmany’. The centuries-old tradition brings crowds of 250,000 party-seekers to Edinburgh to take part in the famed events. A torchlight procession starts the proceedings, followed by a giant open-air Ceilidh (a traditional Celtic party) with live music and entertainment performed on stages around the city, and a huge concert and series of parties taking over the city for the big night. As midnight strikes, 4.5 tons of pyrotechnics set the Edinburgh skyline ablaze as the crowds slur the words to classic Scottish song ‘Auld Lang Syne’. Hold off on the hangovers though, as New Year’s Day hosts a number of fun events, from dry dog sledding across Holyrood Park to swimming in the ice-cold waters of Loony Dock.

Read more about New Year’s Eve Events in Edinburgh

10. Las Vegas

Expect crowds and lots of parties in Las Vegas for New Year's Eve. Photo credit: Sky Island via Flickr.

Nowhere on earth does nightlife like Las Vegas, and the biggest celebration of the year sees over 300,000 people descend on the party capital. The famed Las Vegas Strip is car-free and firework-friendly throughout the night, with live bands, pyrotechnic displays and laser-shows turning the area into a giant street party. Bars and nightclubs all over town will be turning up the volume (and the ticket prices) for some mammoth celebrations and famous music acts will be hitting the stage (The Killers, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pitbull and Calvin Harris are all on the bill for the 2013 celebration). Whether you’re gambling away the past year’s savings, smooching beneath Bellagio’s famous dancing fountains or partying into the early hours in a haze of champagne cocktails, Vegas does its hard-partying reputation proud over the New Year.

Celebrate the New Year with tickets to a show in Las Vegas

11. Orlando

Walt Disney World lights up for New Year's Eve. Photo credit: terren in Virginia via Flickr.

America’s theme park capital, Orlando, offers plenty of options for seeing in the New Year, with the city’s legendary Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld all open until 1am on New Year’s Day. Universal Citywalk hosts a huge New Year’s event with live bands and the NYC Times Square ball drop showcased on large screens.

If you’ve got kids in tow for the New Year, few destinations are as perfect as Disney World Orlando, where daylong celebrations culminate in an explosive midnight fireworks display. Cirque du Soleil performances, dance parties, raining confetti and live entertainers will keep the whole family mesmerized as you await the final countdown.

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12. New Orleans

Home to one of the nation’s best New Year’s Eve fireworks displays, a fiery kaleidoscope cascading over the Mississippi River, New Orleans erupts in festivities as the clock strikes midnight. The 15-minute long spectacle might be the biggest event of the evening, along with the famous Fleur de Lis drop where, reminiscent of the Times Square Ball drop, an oversized object is dropped from the roof of the Jax Brewery on Jackson Square, but the night doesn’t end there. Parties can go on until the sun comes up, with live music booming from the bars and clubs in the city’s French Quarter and the streets still bustling in the early hours.

Read more about New Year’s Eve in New Orleans

13. Berlin

With more than one million people chanting the countdown to midnight and over 2,000 fireworks raining sparks over the city, New Year Eve is undoubtedly the event of the year in Berlin. The main event, a gigantic street party with live bands and a mind-boggling lightshow, has been a tradition since the fall of the infamous Berlin wall, and today the mammoth event  is broadcast all over the world.

A 2km ‘party mile’ stretches between the landmark Brandenburger Tor (Brandenburg Gate) and the Siegessäule (Victory Column), with video screens, live music stages, party tents and refreshment stands transforming the historic city into a vibrant circus. Whether you opt for strutting your moves on the dance floor, munching Bratwurst and drinking German beer, or simply soaking up the party atmosphere, ‘Silvester’  (New Year) is the liveliest time to be in the German capital.

14. Reykjavik

New Year's Eve in Reykjavik begins with mass at the cathedral. Photo credit: Daniel Williams via Flickr.

With a mere four daylight hours over the Christmas season, the northernmost capital of the world has plenty of excuses to get the party started early for the New Year. Reykjavik’s New Year’s Eve celebrations traditionally kick off with evening mass at Reykjavik’s Cathedral, before locals join forces around huge bonfires to play music, sing and dance as they countdown the end of 2012. As the clock strikes midnight, the city erupts with fireworks and huge crowds gather around landmarks like the Hallgrímskirkja church, Perlan (The Pearl) and Landakotskirkja church for an extravaganza that aims to rival the northern lights. It’s after midnight that the city’s renowned nightlife swings into action, with bars and clubs blaring long into the New Year.

15. Rio de Janeiro

The cultural capital of Brazil might be most famous for its riotous Carnival, but New Year’s celebrations come a close second. Rio’s famous Copacabana beach hosts the celebrations, with giant stages set up along the oceanfront, and an array of drum-heavy music, opulent Carnival-style costumes, traditional dance performances and fairground attractions keep revelers entertained through the evening hours.

Over 2 million people cram onto the beach, in a mass of white (the color said to bring good luck for the new year), drinking champagne, tossing handfuls of flowers into the ocean (a gift to Yemanja, Goddess of the seas) and dancing the samba until the main event. As the New Year is counted in, a procession of boats set off a torrent of vivid fireworks over the ocean.

16. Hong Kong

New Year's Eve party in Hong Kong. Photo credit: Bryan Allison via Flickr.

With its enormous fireworks display and pyrotechnic lightshow more electrifying each year, Hong Kong has firmly cemented its reputation for one of the world’s best New Year’s Eve celebrations. The events kick off in Hong Kong’s Times Square shopping mall, where a replica ball drop takes place in homage to the famous NYC Times Square festivities. Over at the waterfront, a sparkling countdown is etched onto the night sky above Victoria Harbour, before the waterfront explodes in an extravagant fireworks display. Whether you’re partying on a boat by the harbor or gazing up from a rooftop terrace, the HK$7 million spectacle is sure to incite gasps right up until its mindblowing finale – a pyrotechnic dragon dancing across the skyline.

17. Barcelona

Spain’s party capital will be saving the best for last, with restaurants, bars and nightclubs all holding special events for New Year’s Eve. In the run up to midnight, huge street parties take over Plaza Catalunya, Las Ramblas and Plaza Reial, with crowds singing, popping champagne and counting down the seconds until the New Year. While there is no official fireworks display in Barcelona, a number of hotels and private parties along the waterfront brighten up the sky with their own displays.

Make sure you save some energy reserves for the first week of the New Year, too – the spectacular 3 Kings Parade brings colorful chariots, marching bands and torchlight processions to the city streets.

18. Toronto

New Year's Eve celebrations in Toronto's Nathan Phillips Square. Photo credit: Tania Liu via Flickr.

Toronto celebrates New Year’s Eve in style, but the real spectacle is at the nearby Niagara Falls – more than 3 million lights feature in the ‘Winter Festival of Light’ and the midnight fireworks display is set against one of the world’s most impressive backdrops.

If you prefer to stay in town, the main hub of New Year’s celebrations is in Nathan Phillips Square, where a giant music concert, fireworks display and public countdown will bring in 2013.

19. Bangkok

From the glitzy Thonglor district to the backpacker-haven of Khao San Road, every bar and nightclub in Bangkok will be heaving with revelers on December 31st, as the city’s Thai and international populations come together to celebrate the New Year. The biggest event of the night is in CentralWorld Square, where crowds of several hundred thousand will be gathered for a spectacular light show and live concert. As well as the dramatic countdown to midnight, they’ll be video screens projecting celebrations from around the world, a series of fireworks displays set off along the riverside and lively beer gardens lining the streets.

Read more about New Year’s Eve in Bangkok

20. Cape Town

While New Year’s Eve might hold the best parties, Cape Town’s real festivities kick off on New Year’s Day, when the ‘Kaapse klopse’, or Cape Town Minstrel Carnival, hits the streets. Expect flamboyant parades and performances with thousands of traditional dancers, marching musicians and hoards of costumed Minstrels, in a celebration that dates back to the 19th-century slave trade (traditionally this was the one day of the year the slaves were given a day off). There’s no need to wait until the 1st to start partying, though – a number of New Year’s Eve festivals, concerts and events will keep the city dancing well past the strike of midnight. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront hosts a music concert and midnight fireworks display; the Victoria Falls New Year’s Carnival includes a carnival-themed train, live music and plenty of entertainment and DJs in the Cape Quarter will keep the roofs raised well into the night.

 - Zoe Smith

Planning your New Year’s Eve? Browse Viator’s USA New Year’s Eve tours and tickets and Europe New Year’s Eve tours and tickets!

20 New Year’s Eve Celebrations Around the World by Zoe Smith from Viator Travel Blog

What are you doing when the clock strikes 12 on New Year’s Eve? Depending on where you are, this answer could vary. In America, there is the tradition of watching the ball drop from Times Square in NYC (or the Peach drop in Atlanta and so on), along with an impressive fireworks display that rivals Independence Day, breaking out into “Auld Lang Syne” and the kiss to start the year off right.

But, that’s America.

What about downing 12 grapes at each chime of the clock? Or, smashing plates against a front door?

There are different ways people bring in the New Year around the world.

Let’s take a trip, shall we?

Wales

Referred to as “Nos Galan”, at the first strike of 12 in Wales, people open their back doors, then shut them. This signifies letting the old year exit (hopefully quietly) and then closing out any bad luck. At the last stroke of midnight, the front door is opened to let in the New Year and new luck. Tradition also dictates that if the first visitor in the New Year is a woman and a man opens the door to let her in, it is bad luck. Also, if the first man to come into the home in the New Year is wearing a red hat, that’s bad luck, too.

The following morning in Wales, New Year’s Day (“Dydd Calan”), children awake early and visit neighbors to sing until midday.

Denmark

Hide your nicer dishes for this New Year’s Eve tradition. In Denmark, people toss old dishes at the homes of their friends. The more broken dishes you have laying scattered about your front stoop, the more friends you have.

Spain

Eat 12 grapes in Spain for good luck! - photo courtesy of JaulaDeArdilla via Flickr

People in Spain bring in the “Nochevieja” by eating grapes, one-at-a-time, at each chime of the clock. Those who can down the 12 grapes in a minute have good luck for the New Year. Those who can’t? Well, better luck in 365 days. After midnight, people leave their homes and head out to celebrate.

Read more about Spain’s Holiday Traditions

Hungary

“Jack Straw,” an effigy, is made up to represent evils and misfortunes of the past year and is then paraded around Hungary villages before it is burned on New Year’s Eve, or “Szilveszter.” Then, to put the old year in the past, people attend church.

South Africa

At midnight, it’s tradition in South Africa for churches to chime their bells and locals to shoot their guns. In the past, people used to fling fridges off of balconies and bridges, too, but due to serious risks, this practice has been largely curtailed.

Japan

"Forget the year" in Japan - photo courtesy of civ33 via Flickr

The New Year, which symbolizes renewal, is the most important holiday in Japan. In the days leading up to December 31, Japanese hold “Bonenkai” or “Forget the year” parties to prepare for the coming New Year. On New Year’s Eve, Buddhist temples hit the gong 108 times to expel the 108 types of human weaknesses so everyone starts the year fresh.

Read more about New Year in Japan

Netherlands

To commemorate the start of the New Year in the Netherlands, Christmas trees are burnt, fireworks are launched and children toss fire crackers. This tradition is said to come from a pagan custom – the firecrackers drive away demons and allow people to start the New Year with a clean slate. The next day, some people take a quick polar bear dip into the frigid waters of the North Sea.

China

While people in China may not celebrate the same New Year as others, they still have a tradition. “Yuan Tan”, the Chinese New Year, takes place between January 1 and February 19 and is based on the lunar calendar. Unlike most other New Year celebrations, the Chinese New Year lasts for 10 to 15 days and includes fireworks, celebrations and the exchange of red envelopes with gold coins placed inside for good luck.

Colombia

In this country, Colombians build a dummy to represent the old year. It is clad in old clothes from each family member and stuffed with straw and firecrackers, along with pieces of paper where each family writes down faults or bad luck they want to get rid of in the new year. Then it is burned to ashes.

Greece

Look out for coins or charms in the Vasilopita in Greece! - photo courtesy of Irene-Angelica Chounta via Flickr

In Greece, they make special bread called “Vasilopita”. It is baked with a coin or charm inside it. At midnight, it is cut and served, and the person who has the piece of bread with the coin or charm receives good luck for a year.

Is there a New Year’s Eve tradition you have in your country? Please share it below!

Read more about New Year’s Eve Celebrations Around the World

- Diana Edelman

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New Year’s Eve Traditions Around the World by Diana Edelman from Viator Travel Blog

During the month of December, European countries come alive with the spirit of the holidays. Christmas Markets become a star attraction, especially in Germany, enticing visitors with their selections of holiday gifts and traditional food and drink set in festive market surrounds. Imagine the smells of roasting almonds and mulled wine wafting through the air on a cool winter evening as hundreds of fellow market-goers laugh and converse with loved ones. What fun!

For those travelers wishing to explore several of these markets while in Europe, Christmas market tours will give that ability in a short period of time, and with a qualified guide. Rose-Marie Cannemeijer-Dimitri, one of our Amsterdam-based private guides, offers several tour options during the Christmas markets season to nearby cities of Bruges, Brussels, Cologne and Valkenburg to name a few. Her 25 years guiding experience and ability to speak 6 languages fluently make her an excellent option for exploring the markets with a local’s insight.

Christmas Markets to Explore with Rose-Marie

Christmas Market in Cologne. Photo credit: Colin Grey via Flickr.

Across Rose-Marie’s 1, 2 and 3 day tours, stops at Christmas Markets in the following cities are options: Bruges, Brussels, Cologne, Dusseldorf, Essen, Antwerp, Valkenburg, Ghent, and Aachen.

Some of the city highlights, as noted by Rose-Marie:

Cologne – A total of six Christmas markets can be found and explored in Cologne, along with  Christmas concerts, nativity displays and a potential stop at the ice skating rink.

Bruges – This gothic city puts an old-time vibe in with the Christmas markets experience. Here it is also imperative to indulge in both chocolate and waffles (perhaps together) while walking along the cobblestone streets near the markets.

Valkenburg – Valkenburg is home to a special kind of Christmas Markets as they are the oldest and largest markets taking place in European caves!

Aachen – The destination is interesting for a Christmas Markets tour because the center of the star-shaped town is a cathedral – the same one where Charlemagne was crowned in 800.

Christmas Market Tour Options with Rose-Marie

Christmas Market in Brussels. Photo credit: Gary Bembridge via Flickr.

The markets you visit with Rose-Marie from her base of Amsterdam will depend on the length of your travels together. Choose from varying options of 1, 2 or 3 days of travel.

1-Day Christmas Market Tours:

• Dusseldorf Christmas Market (Germany) – Available from November 23 to December 23, 2012.

• Brussels Christmas Market (Belgium) – Available from November 23 to January 6, 2013.

• Bruges Christmas Market (Belgium) – Available from November 23 to January 6, 2013.

• Valkenburg Christmas Market (Netherlands) – Available from November 23 to December 23, 2012.

** Belgium runs Christmas Markets through early January.

2-Day Christmas Market Tours:

• Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp Christmas Market Tours (Belgium)

• Dusseldorf and Essen Christmas Market Tours (Germany)

• Cologne and Dusseldorf Christmas Market Tours (Germany)

• Valkenburg and Maastricht (Netherlands) to Aachen (Germany) Christmas Market Tours

3-Day Christmas Market Tours:

Valkenburg's Christmas Markets are in caves! Photo credit: chris friese via Flickr.

• Valkenburg and Maastricht (Netherlands) to  Aachen and Monschau (Germany)

• Rhine Valley tour, Cologne, Lorelei, Rudesheim and Cochem including a Rhine Cruise (Germany)

• Cologne and Aachen (Germany) to Bruges and Ghent (Belgium)

Booking a Christmas Markets tour with Rose-Marie is as simple as heading over to her Viator private guide profile and selecting “Book this tour guide!” 

Happy travels, and happy holidays!

Read more about Christmas in Amsterdam

- Viator Travel Team

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Amsterdam tours and things to do, Amsterdam attractions, and Amsterdam travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Amsterdam for a customized tour!

Exploring Christmas Markets in Europe by Viator Travel Team from Viator Travel Blog

Santa Claus, Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Papa Noel. Whatever name you give to the portly man in red, there’s no denying the magnetic charms of everyone’s favorite Christmas character. With daily meet-and-greets in his many workshops and grottoes around the world, Santa is just as busy in the run up to Christmas as he is on Christmas Eve, and there are plenty of ways to get up close to the bearded fellow himself.

Whether you choose to take a trip to the North Pole, ride in Santa’s sleigh or check out some of Santa’s most unique pastimes, here are 10 spectacular ways to discover Santa Claus around the world.

1. Santa Claus Village, Lapland

Meet Santa in Lapland

Few places are as synonymous with Christmas as Lapland, the Official Home of Santa Claus, and Northern Finland’s magical Santa Claus Village is the ultimate Christmastime holiday destination. Santa’s year-round residence lies in the Arctic village of Rovaniemi, where the landscape is blanketed with snow and Christmas spirit oozes from its every pore.

In the village, a vast Christmas Exhibition features items and multi-media showcases of Christmas traditions from around the world, and there’s even a Santa theme park, where sleigh rides, a giant snow globe, an ice gallery and even an elf school will keep the kids (and adults) thoroughly entertained. Here, you can bake gingerbread cookies with Mrs Claus; watch Santa’s elves at work in their workshop; and see if you can spot Rudolf among Santa’s herd of friendly reindeer. There’s even a Santa Claus Post Office, where you can stamp your postcards with the much-revered Arctic Circle postmark or request a special letter from Santa Claus to be sent to your home.

2. Montreux Christmas Village, Switzerland

With its snow-capped chalets, vast icy lakes and alpine scenery, Switzerland is a natural winter wonderland come Christmastime. Samichlaus, the Swiss Santa Claus, pays a visit to many of the country’s festive Christmas markets, but his most idyllic hideout is at Montreux’s mountaintop Christmas village, overlooking the iconic Lake Geneva, the Bernese Alps and the famous Mont Blanc Massif. Wrapped up warm in his ubiquitous red hat, Santa takes up residence in a cozy log cabin at the top of the Rochers-de-Naye mountain at 6,700ft (2,042m).

Take the cogwheel railway from Montreux to the summit, where you’ll be able to meet Santa’s faithful reindeer, stroll around the twinkling Christmas market, make your own traditional wax candles and stock up on Santa’s favorite snack – delicious spiced gingerbread. Make sure you’ve been good, though – Santa’s mean sidekick, Schmutzli, is ready to dole out a bundle of sticks to those who’ve misbehaved.

Take a Switzerland Christmas Markets tour

3. North Pole, Alaska

North Pole, Alaska. Photo credit: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Europe District via Flickr.

Legend dictates that Santa Claus’ hometown is at the North Pole and back in the 1950s a team of entrepreneurial Alaskans renamed their town the ‘North Pole’ in his honor. It’s not just the name though, the entire town aims to bring your festive fantasies to life, with streetlamps fashioned like candy canes, trails of reindeer hooves dotted through the snow and glittering Christmas lights hung from the shop fronts.

Visitors can meet the ‘World’s largest Santa’, a 42-foot statue; wander down Santa Claus Lane; watch the elves hard at work in Santa’s Workshop; get their postcards stamped with a ‘North Pole’ postmark  and even take a spin in Santa’s sleigh. Of course, Santa and his reindeer are in residence all year round, huddled in the warmth of the Santa Claus House, where piles of mail simply addressed to ‘Santa Claus, North Pole, Alaska’ have made it to their destination.

4. St Nicholas’ birthplace, Turkey

The inspiration for the modern-day Santa Claus, St Nicholas was a 4th century Greek Christian bishop whose immense generosity earned him the unofficial title as the Saint of Christmas. While the red-suited fellow gets plenty of attention in Turkey, too, it’s his predecessor St Nicholas who is revered as one of the country’s proudest ancestors, hailing from the ancient Lycian region.

Take a journey through the history of Santa Claus, with a visit to St Nicholas’ birthplace, Patara; marvel at the St Nicolas statue in Demre, where the St Nicholas Church is a popular pilgrimage site, housing a collection of restored medieval frescoes detailing the life of St Nicolas. You can even see some of the Saint’s bones in the Antalya Archeological Museum.

5. Papai Noel, Brazil

With all those thick layers and that famously bushy beard, Santa must have a tough time surviving the humidity of the Southern Hemisphere. Luckily Papai Noel – the Brazilian Santa Claus – has it sorted. Dressed in a lightweight silk suit in his trademark fire engine red, Santa, who is said to live in Greenland most of the year, makes a few stylish appearances through the holiday season.

Traditionally, Papai Noel arrives to greet his adoring fans a few days before Christmas at the famous Maracanã soccer stadium in Rio de Janeiro, flying in by helicopter above the world’s largest floating Christmas tree, before singing carols and dishing out candy to the kids. Keep your eyes peeled if you head to the beach on Christmas day, too – Santa is often spotted surfing the waves of Copacabana beach, dressed in his full attire.

6. Great Santa Run, UK

One of the Santa races around the world. Photo credit: Newsbie Pix via Flickr.

If one Santa just isn’t enough, how about a convoy of hundreds of Santas, all undertaking a 5km run in full suits and beards? The Great Santa Run is held annually in Edinburgh, Scotland and Nottingham, England, where you’ll have a tough time spotting the real Santa amidst his many followers. Organized by the When You Wish Upon A Star children’s charity, the sponsored runs help to raise funds for the disadvantaged children around the UK, but if you can’t make to one of these locations, don’t worry. A number of similar Santa-themed marathons are held around the world, but it’s Derry in Northern Ireland that holds the Guinness World Record for the largest Santa gathering, with an incredible 12,965 Santas in attendance!

Browse Christmas tours in London

7. Scuba Diving Santa, Japan

Scuba diving Santa. Photo credit: Lisa Jacobs via Flickr.

When he’s not dashing through the snow and squeezing himself down chimneys with a sack full of presents, what do you reckon Santa’s hobbies are? Tobogganing, perhaps? Or skiing? Toy making and carving gingerbread houses? Scuba diving?

As implausible as it may seem, on his annual visits to Japan, Santa Claus ditches the snow for the waters at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, where he undertakes daily swimming sessions for 6 weeks over the festive season. For the most unique Santa experience, time your visit for one of his five daily swims, where you’ll get to see Mr. Claus suited and booted (or rather, finned), snorkeling with the tropical fish; handing gifts to the best behaved dolphins and even braving a swim with the whale sharks.

8. Santa Fest, Sydney

Santafest in Sydney. Photo credit: Nigel Howe via Flickr.

Sydney gets some serious Santa fever at the end of November each year, when the city’s annual Santa Fest hits Darling Harbour. There will be Santa hats and shiny belt buckles all around, as Sydney-siders gather along the waterfront to celebrate the turning on of the city’s Christmas lights. Santa imposters will be stilt-walking along the promenade; waterskiing along the ocean; and paragliding overhead, but the arrival of the real Santa is the focal point of the day. Ditching his flying sleigh for a vintage 1930s boat, Santa will be sailing into the harbor and bringing with him a spectacular evening fireworks display and lightshow. After soaking up the applause, Santa will light up the Christmas tree, join in some festive karaoke and dish out plenty of surprise gifts to the kids.

9. Macy’s Santaland, New York City

Santa arrives during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Photo credit: tweber1 via Flickr.

Out of all his grottoes, winter wonderlands and sleigh rides around the world, the famous Macy’s Santaland must surely be one of Santa’s favorite retreats. New York City’s most renowned Christmas installation, Santaland features an entire North Pole ‘village’, with a train taking children through an enchanted forest of talking trees; a wonderland of giant candy-canes and ice-skating polar bears; a dramatic display of motorized model trains; and glittering Christmas trees heaped with presents. Santa arrives by sleigh as part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and makes himself comfortable on his ornate throne in his grotto, where he spends his days posing for photos with his guests and even joining some of them for a special Santa breakfast.

Book a Christmas tour in New York City

10. Virtual Santa

For over 50 years the North American Aerospace Defense Command has been tracking Santa’s whereabouts from December 1stup until his epic round-the-world sleigh ride on Christmas Eve. The brainchild of a cheerful phone operator who decided to play along when children started ringing the wrong number for a department store’s ‘Santa hotline’, the Santa tracker is now an annual undertaking run by festive-minded volunteers. Those hoping to sneak a peek at Santa, can follow the NORAD Tracks Santa website, for his coordinates in the run up to the big day.

Read more about Christmas around the World

- Zoë Smith

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Christmas Markets tours in Salzburg, Christmas tours in Paris, Christmas tours in Rome, and Munich Christmas Markets tours.

10 Ways to Discover Santa Claus Around the World by Zoe Smith from Viator Travel Blog

With city skylines glittering with illuminations and enough festive delicacies to make everyone loosen their belt buckles a few notches, the Christmas season is upon us once again. The only question is: where should you spend the big day?

Whether you want to soak up the atmosphere of Europe’s vibrant Christmas markets; visit Santa’s hometown; attend Christmas mass with the Pope; or enjoy a picture-perfect white Christmas, here are 25 of the best places to spend Christmas around the world.

1. Austria

Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride from Salzburg

With elaborately-woven Advent wreaths, nativity displays and sparkling tree ornaments, Austria’s handcrafted Christmas decorations are just one of the reasons to visit the Austria’s celebrated Christmas markets. Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart, delivers a traditional Christmas, with classical music concerts, carol singers and an atmospheric market piled with traditional baked goods, candied fruits and roasted chestnuts. Alternatively, Vienna’s main Christmas Market is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the late 13th-century.

2. Germany

Home to Europe’s original ‘Christkindlmarkt’ Christmas market, Germany is one of the continent’s most festive destinations come December. Visit the oldest Christmas market in Dresden, dating back to 1435; Munich’s huge Marienplatz market and Tollwood Winter Festival; or Berlin’s hugely popular Christmas Market, held in the grounds of the stunning Charlottenburg Castle. Make sure you tuck into some Lebkuchen – delicious spiced gingerbread – washed down with a cup of Glühwein – hot mulled wine.

3. London

London at Christmastime

The inspiration behind Charles Dickens’ famous novel A Christmas Carol, London has no shortage of festive traditions to keep visitors entertained over the holidays. Expect a spectacular array of Christmas lights brightening up the city streets; vibrant Christmas markets stretching along the Thames River and Hyde Park; magical Santa’s grottos; and ice rinks popping up below the city’s landmark buildings. Don’t forget to tuck into a healthy portion of Christmas pudding, too – the festive dessert dates back to medieval England and the English still swear by their secret recipe, served doused in flaming brandy.

4. France

Spend Christmas in the world’s most romantic city, Paris, where the city lives up to its nickname the ‘City of Lights’, with a glittering display of Christmas lights – don’t miss the animated window displays at department store Galeries Lafayette. Go ice-skating or shop for gifts beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower; visit one of the many Christmas-themed markets or take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel at Place la Concorde. If you’re in France over the holidays, pay a visit to the ‘capital of Christmas’ too – Strasbourg hosts the country’s most renowned Christmas markets, dating back to 1570, and draws visitors from all over Europe.

5. Rome

Even if you’re not a regular churchgoer, Christmas Eve is one night of the year when people all over the world descend on their local church for the special midnight mass service. And where better to celebrate the birth of Christ, than at the Vatican in Rome, with Pope Benedict XVI himself? Papal audiences with the Pope, featuring readings, a blessing and prayers are held year round in St Peter’s Basilica, the colonnaded square in the Vatican city, but few services are as memorable as Christmas mass. Held at 10pm on Christmas Eve, then again at 12pm on Christmas day, make sure you book your tickets in advance if you don’t want to miss out.

6. New York

NYC Christmas. Photo credit: Ana Raquel S. Hernandes via Flickr.

One of the world’s biggest holiday destinations, New York’s most famous tourist spots get a yuletide makeover in the run-up to Christmas. Check out the dazzling Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center, with its 30,000 twinkling fairy lights; stroll along Fifth Avenue where the shops are aglow with festive window displays; go ice skating in Central Park; or marvel at Macy’s fantastical Santaland. If you really want to get in the mood, get tickets to one of the city’s famous Christmas shows – the Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas spectacular, with its living nativity and flying Santa, is a huge favorite, as is St John the Divine’s Winter Solstice.

Book a New York City Christmas tour

7. Boston

It’s hard to believe that back in the 17thcentury, Christmas was banned in Boston, but the city has wasted no time in making up for it. With holiday markets, candlelight carols, ice-skating on frozen lakes and an abundance of festive shows, there’s plenty to do in the Massachusetts capital. Don’t miss a look at the Faneuil Hall tree, a glittering marvel dripping with ornaments; the historic Christmas trees on Boston Common; or a visit to the Stone Zoo’s Zoolights with its mind-blowing lightshow.

8. Budapest

Budapest in winter

The ancient buildings of Budapest shimmer with Christmas lights in the winter months, making it one of the most atmospheric times to explore the historic city. Warm up frosted digits in a steaming outdoor pool at one of the city’s famous bathhouses; tuck into home-made strudel and töki pompos (oven-baked doughballs) at one of the city’s many Christmas markets; ice skate on the Városligeti Tó lake before a backdrop of the towering Vajdahunyad Castle; or go sledging with the locals at the Normafa park.

Book a Budapest Christmas Markets Tour

9. Brussels

In a country famed for having not just one, but two Santas (St. Nicholas and Pere Noel) it’s no surprise that the Belgium capital makes the most of its yuletide celebrations. Brussels’ annual ‘Winter Wonders’ Christmas market was voted the ‘most original in Europe’ by British tour operators and features 2km of stalls, a giant Ferris Wheel and fairground, a sledding track, ice rink and a series of music concerts and lightshows on the famous Grand Place. There’s even a Food Plaza where you can sample local specialties like sweet Belgium waffles, croustillons (sugared doughnuts) and, of course, plenty of delicious Belgium Chocolates.

10. Madrid

Madrid is in the mood for a fiesta during the Christmas season and there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained, from the Christmas market in Plaza Mayor to a number of pop-up ice rinks. The Christmas season officially starts on December 15th, marked with a huge show in Plaza de Oriente, and culminating with the vibrant Three Kings Parade on January 5th, an annual procession of colorful floats and a walking nativity, marching through the city streets.

11. Tallinn

Tallinn Christmas market. Photo credit: Jaanus Silla via Flickr.

For a unique Christmas away from the crowds of Western Europe, there’s plenty of Christmas spirit on offer in the Estonian capital. Tallin’s medieval old town is dusted in snow, with nighttime lanterns giving atmospheric glow to the cobblestone streets. It was here, back in 1441, that the world’s first Christmas tree was erected and holiday traditions still include the legendary tree on Town Hall Square. Classical concerts, an international Christmas market, an outdoor ice rink and the Estonian Open Air Museum’s elaborate Christmas Village are all mainstays of the holiday season.

12. Prague

A city of stunning gothic architecture and quirky folkloric traditions, Christmastime in Prague is unlike any other. Even the city’s renowned Christmas markets bring a touch of local traditions, with giant hams spit-roasting in the town square, choirs singing carols by candlelight, wooden huts selling hand-painted ornaments and local handicrafts, and ladies in traditional dress frying trdelník – sugary Czech pastries. There’s even a stable in the Old Town Square, with sheep, goats and donkeys set around a traditional nativity.

Read more about Christmas in Prague

13. Montreal

Montreal at Christmastime. Photo credit: Emmanuel Huybrechts

Montreal’s strong French influence brings a European feel to the Quebec metropolis and the island dazzles with Christmas cheer in the winter months. The annual Santa Claus Parade, a tradition dating back to 1925, and the French-themed Défilé de Noël festival, both see the streets lined with colorful floats; ice skating rinks and Christmas fairs pop up all over the city; and weekly fireworks light up the night sky from the Old Port. Best of all are the French-inspired foods – candied chestnuts, buttery pastries and mugs of steaming hot chocolate.

Book a Christmas tour in Montreal

14. Chicago

Midwesterners know a thing or two about celebrating Christmas and Chicago is a hub of wintry fun in the holidays. Take in the famous Macy’s Christmas tree and animated window displays; practice your ice skating moves in Millennium Park; walk the Magnificent Mile where an incredible one million lights adorn the shop windows; and check out the Museum of Science & Industry’s incredible ‘Christmas around the World and Holidays of Light’ exhibition, with it’s falling snow and forest of tinsel-draped Christmas trees. The biggest event of the season is the traditional German-style Christkindlemarket, where a Santa House, tree lighting ceremony, carol concert and lantern parade provide plenty of entertainment and vendors sell food and wares from around Europe and America.

15. Alaska

If you’re after a guaranteed white Christmas, Alaska is the perfect choice, with a packed schedule of winter carnivals, dogsledding races, ice carving competitions and community snowshoeing expeditions. Head to the North Pole, where the entire town is a festive dream – wander down the magical Santa Claus Lane where even the streetlamps look like candy canes; meet the ‘World’s largest Santa’, a 42-foot statue; feed carrots to Santa’s reindeer and snap a photo in Santa’s sleigh. Of course, don’t forget to visit the Santa Claus House and pay your respects to the bearded fellow himself.

16. Switzerland

Switzerland during Christmas. Photo credit: Olivier Bruchez via Flickr.

With snow-blanketed Alps and world-class ski resorts, Switzerland is a country made for winter. Explore the glittering Lake Geneva, where Christmas markets are held in Geneva, Lausanne and Vevey, and a mountaintop Christmas village hosts a Santa’s grotto and reindeer park in Montreux. Alternatively, check out Europe’s longest street of Christmas illuminations in Basel or hit Zurich’s five Christmas markets, where you can pick up boxes of freshly made Nidelzältli toffees to munch on beneath the famous Singing Christmas Tree on Werdmühleplatz. If it’s spectacular views you’re after, the Mt. Pilatus Christmas Market is Switzerland’s highest at a breathtaking 2,133m.

17. Copenhagen

Despite the diminishing daylight hours, Denmark is anything but gloomy at Christmastime and Copenhagen’s famous Tivoli gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland, with a Christmas carnival, an ice palace and a vibrant light show over the Tivoli Lake. Admire the twinkling Christmas lights on Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street, Straget; take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the picturesque Kronborg Castle and wander the shimmering Nyhavn canal with a glass of glogg (mulled wine with cinnamon, raisins and almonds) and a bag of freshly baked ebleskiver (apple dumplings).

18. Medellin, Colombia

Colombia might not be first on your list of festive destinations, but the unassuming town of Medellin is home to one of the world’s most spectacular lightshows – a month long carnival drawing revelers from all over the world. Over 16 million lights twinkle from the city skyline throughout December and early January, with pyrotechnic light displays over the Santa Elena River, rainbow colored water fountains, lively street parties and a giant 79-foot Christmas tree.

19. Lapland

Meeting Santa in Finland

Few destinations are as quintessentially Christmassy as Lapland, spread across the arctic regions of northern Norway, Finland and Sweden and the unofficial home of Santa Claus. Mr. Claus is in residence throughout the holiday season at Finland’s world famous Santa Claus village in Rovaniemi, where you can take a ride on a reindeer sleigh, get your postcards stamped at Santa’s very own post office, watch Santa’s Elves at work and even learn to bake gingerbread with Mrs. Claus. It’s not the only place to catch Father Christmas in action, though – he also runs a number of similar villages dotted throughout northern Norway and Sweden.

Read more about holiday markets in Sweden

20. San Francisco

San Francisco is up for a party at any time of the year, but come the holiday season, the celebrations are electric. Ice skate beneath the 83-foot Christmas tree in Union Square; add a symbolic origami paper plane to the World Tree of Hope at City Hall; check out the lights in the tree-lined Huntington Park and along the historic Picardy Drive; or take the kids to visit the infamous Tom and Jerry tree on 21st street.

Book a San Francisco Christmas tour

21. Lake Tahoe

Transforming from a summer getaway to winter wonderland, Lake Tahoe provides plenty of snow-filled holiday fun. Burn off those extra Christmas calories with skiing, snowmobiling and ice skating; take a moonlight sleigh ride along the lake; or check out the Squaw Valley Festival of Lights, where the entire resort is set alight with festive decorations and a huge illuminated tree.

Book a Lake Tahoe Christmas tour

22. Vancouver

Capilano Suspension Bridge lit up for Christmas

Vancouver’s green spaces are taken over with celebratory events throughout the holidays, with a winter wonderland stretching across the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park; the Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden; and Stanley Park’s Bright Nights transforming the park into a replica of the North Pole. Not only that, but Grouse Mountain hosts a reindeer farm, Santa house and ice-skating rink along the mountaintop; a procession of decorated ships cruise along the harbor for the unique Carol Ships Parade of Lights Festival; and an enormous Santa Claus Parade is held in the city center.

Book a Vancouver Christmas tour

23. Sydney

Sunbathing on Christmas Eve and celebrating Christmas day with a barbecue on the beach might seem odd to those from the northern hemisphere, but don’t be fooled into thinking that a hot Christmas can’t be festive. Sydney’s iconic skyline blazes even brighter during the holiday season, with the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House and Town Hall all part of the Christmas lightshow. Christmas markets and carol singers liven up the streets, and the annual Santa Fest at Darling Harbour sees Mr. Claus arrive by boat beneath an explosion of fireworks. Don’t wear yourself out partying Christmas Day, though – you won’t want to miss the huge sendoff for the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race on Boxing Day.

Book a Sydney Christmas tour

24. Philippines

A Christmas parol in the Philippines. Photo credit: Constantine Agustin via Flickr.

If the Christmas fun feels like its over all too quickly, try spending the holiday season in the Philippines. Boasting the world’s longest Christmas season, the Filipino Christmas stretches from the start of September up until the ‘Feast of the Epiphany’ on January 6th. Carol singers and parols (traditional star-shaped lanterns made of bamboo or rattan) begin to brighten up the streets from September, but the main festivities kick off on December 16th with the capital’s giant lantern festival and street parties culminating on Christmas Eve with a huge family feast.

25. Bethlehem

There’s no place more traditional to spend Christmastime than in Bethlehem, Israel, the birthplace of Jesus and the center of nativity scenes worldwide. Thousands make the pilgrimage to Bethlehem each year, gathering in the Manger Square on Christmas Eve and attending the midnight mass service at the Church of the Nativity, built on the spot where Jesus was born. It’s a gathering of locals and foreigners, with all religions coming together to watch or partake in the carol singing, candle parades and live music.

– Zoë Smith

25 Places to Spend Christmas Around the World by Zoe Smith from Viator Travel Blog

If you’re searching for a place to get you in the mood for Christmas, look no further than Germany. With hundreds of Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte), a mouth-watering selection of festive dishes, and perfect conditions for winter sports, you’ll quickly fall in love with this enchanting destination. Christmas is a wonderful time to visit Germany–the locals embrace the season of goodwill by adorning the streets with colorful decorations and inviting visitors to sample the tasty local cuisine, as well as a glass or two of the famous Glühwein (mulled wine).

Keep warm with a cup of Glühwein

There are hundreds of Christmas markets all over Germany, which typically open at the end of November and run until Christmas Eve. Opening hours vary but the markets are open daily, usually from 10am until around 8pm or 9pm.

The markets have been a long-standing tradition and embrace many local customs. German Christmas carols are sung and small wooden huts are decorated with nutcrackers, glass baubles, candles and festive textiles. You can buy a variety of local handicrafts that demonstrate gifted local craftsmanship, such as wood carvings, tablecloths, children’s toys and sheepskin winter clothing. As you walk down the street, the scent of cinnamon from freshly baked gingerbread biscuits fills the air, and it’s impossible to resist the delicious German sausages roasting over an open fire. Germany at Christmas time is a magical place to be.

If you’re planning to visit at the end of November, please be aware that November 25th, 2012 is “Totensonntag,” a Remembrance Day in Germany. This day is a public holiday in many German cities and Christmas markets as well as many shops and attractions may be closed for the day.

If you’re in Germany on December 6th, look out for some entertaining traditions. This day is known as St. Nicholas Day (Nikolaustag). On the night of December 5th, children will put their boots outside the door and according to German legend, St. Nicholas will visit each house during the night. If a child has been good, St. Nicholas will fill their boots with sweets, but if they have been bad, their boots will be filled with twigs.

The weather in Germany can get cold so be sure to wrap up warm. Daytime temperatures in December average between 32°C and 40°C, but at night, temperatures often drop below freezing. The locals stay warm by wearing thick layers and drinking the hot drinks on offer at the street stalls.

If you book a few weeks in advance, you can find excellent flight deals from the UK with budget airlines such as easyJet, Ryanair and Monarch Airlines. Special winter promotions can be found on many hotel sites when staying three or more nights.

Top Christmas Markets

The Weihnachtsmärkte in Germany are world famous and every city, town and village has its own Christmas market with unique surprises such as miniature railways, medieval stalls, walk through advent calendars and circus performances. The larger cities in Germany typically have several different themed markets, whereas the smaller cities offer more intimate, charming markets, usually based around the old town market square.

Read more about German Christmas Markets

Here’s a selection of some of the best Christmas markets to visit.

1. Nuremberg

November 30th-December 24th, 2012

Bratwurst roasting on an open fire

This is Germany’s most famous Christmas Market, which has the nickname of “Little Town from Wood and Cloth,” due to the 180 wooden market stalls decorated with red and white cloth in the picturesque old town. The market is known as “Christkindlesmarkt” and attracts over 2 million visitors each year. Every two years, there is a tradition where a girl aged between 16 and 19 years old is chosen as the Nuremberg Christmas Angel (Christkind). She opens the market, spreads Christmas cheer around the town and visits charities and children’s hospitals.

Nuremberg is often labelled as the prettiest Christmas market in Germany and each year there is a competition between stall owners to win the award for the most beautiful stall design. The market is famous for its Lebkuchen (spicy gingerbread cakes) and Nuremberg Bratwursts (small charcoal-grilled sausages) which are served with a portion of sauerkraut. Unusual souvenirs you can buy include “Nuremberg Plum People,” (Zwetcshgenmännle) which are tiny statues made from prunes.

The Kinderweihnact is the children’s market and offers attractions such as a Ferris wheel, steam train and carousel. There is an emphasis on quality at this market, and the Nuremberg Market Council have banned mass produced goods, taped music and plastic fir garlands. It is the place to come if you want to buy top quality goods in a quaint setting.

2. Berlin

November 26th-December 31st, 2012

A magical Christmas atmosphere in Berlin

With over 50 Christmas markets each year, Germany’s capital has the most extensive range of markets to visit. There is at least one market in each of the city’s twelve districts, so you can be sure that there is something for everyone.

For an upscale market, you should go to The Gendarmenmarkt–a large Christmas market set in Berlin‘s most beautiful square. There is a small entry fee, but you’ll find yourself in a world of live music, colorful market stalls and food stands from Berlin’s top chefs.

You should also visit the Scandinavian influenced Lucia Christmas Market at the Kulturbrauerei where you can buy unique hand carved wooden goods and try out the heated capes when you feel cold. Berlin’s largest market is in Altstadt Spandau, which has 200 stalls on weekdays and 400 at weekends. The market celebrates Advent every day and the nativity displays are unforgettable.

The beautiful Schloss Charlottenburg in Berlin

For a unique market, The Berlin Environmental and Christmas Market is the place to go. It showcases environmentally friendly handmade good such as bags, jewelery and household ornaments. Charlottenburg Market is a beautiful place to go in the evening. The market is set around a castle which is lit up by multicolored lights once it gets dark.

To launch yourself into a winter wonderland of ice skating and tobogganing, you should take a stroll to the Winter World at Potsdamer Platz, and for children’s entertainment, Alexanderplatz market is full of rides and a petting zoo.

You can be sure to be involved in some serious market-hopping if you visit Berlin.

Read more: Top 5 Berlin Christmas Markets

3. Munich

November 30th-December 24th, 2012

Sheepskin goods to keep warm at the markets

Bavaria’s capital plays host to a historical Christkindlmarkt in the famous Marienplatz. The market has been open since the 17th century and Munich‘s cathedral provides the beautiful backdrop to this popular market in the heart of the old town. The market is a particularly good place to buy authentic Bavarian handicrafts such as wood carvings from Oberammergau, bees’ wax candles and chimney sweep figures made from almonds and plums.

The market’s focal point is a 30-meter Christmas tree lit by 2500 candles, and nearby, live Christmas concerts are played from the town hall’s balcony at 5:30pm daily. Inside the town hall, children can get involved in arts, crafts and Christmas cookie baking.

Christmas nativity scene

To witness one of the largest Christmas manger markets in Germany, you should go to the Kripperlmarkt, where you can buy Christmas angels, animals, religious figures, lanterns and gifts from the three kings to make up your own unique nativity scene.

There are many unusual outdoor performances you can watch, including the Krampuslauf (Krampus Run), where St Nicholas’ trolls run through the market in brightly colored costumes. Also, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure you try the delicious local specialty, Honigkuchen (honey cake).

Read more about the Munich Christmas Market

4. Dresden

November 30th-December 24th, 2012

Decorative gingerbread hearts

Dresden boasts Germany’s oldest Christmas Market called “Striezelmarkt” which began in 1434 as a one day meat market, then eventually evolved to a magical Christmas market.

The Striezelmarkt was given its name because of the traditional Christmas cake, Striezel, which is more commonly known as Stollen. If you come to Dresden on December 8th, you’ll witness the Stollen festival. This is a unique festival where a four-ton stollen makes its way to the city’s baroque Altstadt (Old Town), lead by a procession of bakers and pastry chefs. The stollen is unveiled and weighed before being cut and sold by the Stollenmädchen (stollen girl).

Dresden has the world’s tallest wooden Christmas pyramid – a 45 foot high wooden carousel with life-sized figurines and beautiful nativity scenes. You can climb this pyramid to witness beautiful views of the city and the famous Frauenkirche. As well as the pyramid, Dresden is home to the world’s biggest nutcracker, so you’ll never be short of things to see.

Dresden has many unique handcrafts that you won’t find at other markets. You should go to the Münzgasse area to find products made from wood carvers of the Erzgebirge mountain villages, beautiful textiles and folk art from Lusatia, lace products from Plauen and blown glass from Lauscha.

Make sure you visit the beautiful market stalls in the stable yards at Residenzschloss (Dresden Castle) and to witness jugglers, musical performances and guild craftsmen, Dresden Royal Palace is the place to go.

5. Bremen

November 29th-December 23rd, 2012

Bremen Christmas Market

If you’re looking for a romantic German city, Bremen is your perfect choice. Germany’s oldest maritime city has plenty to charm you–there is a medieval market along the river Weser (The Schlachte Magic Christmas Market) with old fashioned taverns and people dressed in medieval clothing carving wood and performing demonstrations to passers-by. There is also a walk-through advent calendar on the maritime promenade, and each day a new surprise is revealed as a door is opened.

Dom St Petri (Cathedral of St Peter) is a highlight of the town square and it is over 1200 years old. Also on the square is the Rathaus (town hall) which has made it on to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Rathaus is the backdrop to over 170 festive stalls providing everything from local foods, to traditional handicrafts to unique Christmas decorations.

Whilst you’re in Bremen, you should take a stroll to The Schnoor District which is the oldest quarter of the city. Here you will find idyllic alleyways and tiny shops full of unique Christmas gifts.

Other Things to Do

Winter Sports

Take advantage of the winter sports while you're in Germany

If you’re a fan of winter sports, Germany provides the perfect backdrop for snow lovers. From The Black Forest to The Alps, there are plenty of places to get your snow fix. The ski season usually begins early to mid-December and lasts until March. Go to the Garmisch-Partenkirchen for 47 miles of downhill runs and 7 miles of cross country skiing with heights of up to 7000 feet. Germany’s highest peak is the famous Zugspitze, which lies 1 hour 15 minutes south of Munich. It is almost 10,000 feet high and is usually open from the end of November with an annual winter festival showcasing unusual attractions such as hot air ballooning and horse and carriage racing.

Sample Local Food and Drink

Be sure to try roast goose in Germany

During the festive period, many traditional dishes such as roast goose, white sausage and suckling pig start appearing on local menus.

Be sure to sample Bratkartoffeln (fried potato with bacon and onion), Bratwurst (German sausage), Gans (roast goose), Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes served with apple), Lebkuchen (spicy gingerbread), Sauerkraut (fermented shredded cabbage), Schweinshaxe (roasted pork hock), Stollen (German Christmas cake) and Weisswurst (sausages with veal and bacon).

A visit to Germany wouldn’t be the same without a visit to a traditional Bierkeller. Disappear down the steps of a dimly lit cellar and weave your way past huge barrels to sit down and enjoy the locally brewed beers. Whilst you’re on the market, make sure you try some of the hot drinks on offer such as Eierpunsch (egg punch) and Glühwein. For children wanting to try a traditional drink, get them a glass of Kinderpunsch – a non-alcoholic punch made with tea, apple juice and honey.

Germany is an enchanting place during the festive season, so wrap up warm, grab a Glühwein and get ready to experience true German hospitality.

Photos courtesy of Alicia Drewnicki.

Book a Christmas Markets tour in Germany

- Alicia Drewnicki

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Germany tours and things to do, Germany attractions, and Germany travel recommendations, or book a private tour guide in Germany for a customized tour!

German Christmas Markets: Where to Go and What to See and Do by Alicia Drewnicki from Viator Travel Blog

Visiting Italy during the Christmas season offers two bonuses – you’ll avoid the high summer season tourist crowds, and you’ll get to see the country decked out in all its holiday finery.

December 25th isn’t the biggest holiday of the winter season in Italy (that’s Epiphany, in early January), but it’s still a great time to go – and you’ll find a festive atmosphere in every corner of the country. There are a few areas, however, that seem to take the holidays to another level.

Here are a few suggestions for the best places to spend Christmas in Italy.

Rome & Vatican City

Christmas in Rome. Photo credit: Victoria Reay via Flickr.

Heading for Rome over Christmas is probably the most obvious choice, and with good reason. In addition to the festivities in Rome itself, you also have Vatican City‘s celebrations – it’s like getting two cities’ worth of holiday in one spot.

At the Vatican, the Pope delivers a Christmas Eve midnight mass (book tickets well in advance if you want to sit in St. Peter’s), there’s a huge Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square, and a life-sized Nativity scene in front of the basilica. In Rome, the Piazza del Popolo fills with over 100 Nativities, the Piazza Navona turns into a Christmas market, and Christmas Eve mass is held in historic churches throughout the city – including the Pantheon, where you’ll hear Gregorian chants.

Book a Rome Christmas Day Walking Tour and read more about Christmas in Rome and Vatican City

Venice

Christmas ornaments in Murano. Photo credit: Juliette Gibert via Flickr.

While winter in Venice can be cold and damp, Christmas can also be a magical time to visit.

Even if you’re not lucky enough to witness snow falling on the canals and gondolas, Venetians know how to ward off the chill with hot spiced wine and other holiday treats, sold in the Christmas markets. No matter your age, you’re bound to be charmed by the figure of Father Christmas arriving by gondola to distribute goodies, and Christmas Eve mass held in St. Mark’s Basilica is enough to make any trip to Venice worth it.

Keep in mind that many restaurants and hotels do close in the winter, so do your homework beforehand to find out what will be open.

Read more about having a Venetian Christmas

Naples

Figurines on Via San Gregorio Armeno. Photo credit: acetosa888 via Flickr.

Naples is home to a street that can rightfully be called “Christmas Alley” year-round. This city is the epicenter of Italy’s Nativity scene tradition, and the shops along Via San Gregorio Armeno that make both the detailed structures and the myriad figurines that inhabit them work (and sell) all year long.

The figurines range from the expected (holy family and shepherds) to the regional (pizza makers) to the topical (current political or sports personalities). They come in all different sizes, including some that are more than a foot tall for larger Nativity scenes in shop windows and churches. It’s an interesting stop in any season, but kicked into high gear over the Christmas holidays it all makes a little more sense.

Sicily

Christmas in Sicily. Photo credit: Leandro Neumann Ciuffo via Flickr.

For a location with loads of Italian Christmas traditions but (likely) much milder weather, head south to Sicily.

Second only to the Neapolitans in terms of their affection for the Nativity scene, Sicilians erect elaborate Nativities everywhere (from public squares to churches to private homes), including a living Nativity in a cave near Trapani – in other words, locals dress up and re-enact the Nativity daily from Christmas Eve through the Epiphany.

On Christmas Eve, you’ll also see big bonfires in many towns, and this is also the night that marks the start of the holiday feasting. It won’t be balmy enough to hang out on Sicily’s gorgeous beaches, but you’ll get all the festive atmosphere and avoid most of the cold, damp weather found on the mainland.

Trentino-Alto Adige

Trentino-Alto Adige at Christmastime. Photo credit: Alessandro via Flickr.

Germany is known worldwide for its fabulous Christmas markets, so it stands to reason that the heavily Germanic regions in northeast Italy would have inherited some of those traditions – and they have.

Spend Christmas in the Trentino-Alto Adige and you’ll have snowy winter scenery straight out of a postcard (the nearby Dolomites provide a pretty stunning backdrop) while you sip mulled wine in the market squares.

This area is also a good base if you want to take day-trips into Venice or Verona without staying in either one the whole time, or if your idea of the perfect Christmas vacation includes access to world-class skiing.

Read more about Christmas Markets in Italy

Abruzzo & Molise

Zampognari. Photo credit: Vincepal via Flickr.

Along with the Christmas markets and feasts that go along with the holidays throughout Italy, the Abruzzo and Molise regions are home to an older tradition you won’t find in the main tourist centers.

Nine days before Christmas, the bagpipe-playing zampognari come down from the hills into the towns (dressed in period costumes), symbolizing the shepherds who visited Jesus upon his birth. The added bonus of heading for these rural regions of central Italy is that you’re more likely to be sharing the holiday with other Italians rather than foreign visitors.

Read more tips for visiting Italy during Christmas

 - Jessica Spiegel

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Where to Spend Christmas in Italy by Jessica Spiegel from Viator Travel Blog