Different cultures and countries celebrate in different ways. And many of these celebrations have become major tourist attractions, luring visitors from around the world to witness the festivity and the atmosphere of such events. Some of the well-known global parties include:
Oktoberfest – dubbed the “world’s biggest fair”, this celebration lasts for approximately 2.5 weeks in September and October and is hosted in Munich (Bavaria), Germany. This fair sees an average of 5 million visitors every year and is characterised by eating traditional German food and drinking plenty of beer while celebrating the music and other cultural elements of this nation. Similar events are held throughout the world in reference to this grand celebration.
Mardi Gras – this is traditionally a Catholic celebration held prior to the observance of Lent. This event is all about wearing outlandish costumes, eating, drinking and generally overturning social conventions by going ‘all out’, whatever that entails for the particular crowd. The Mardi Gras held in New Orleans has become one of the world’s best known events.
The Running of the Bulls – a small group of bulls (usually about 12 of them) is released in the streets of Pamplona for the festival of Sanfermines. Spectators are then able to participate, running ahead of and alongside these beasts in displays of bravado. There are often casualties; human and, sadly, the innocent animals too. Countries like Mexico, France and Portugal have started to have this annual event in cities around them as well, owing to its popularity.
La Tomatina – a rather bizarre party, La Tomatino is a giant food fight and the missiles are hundreds of thousands of ripe tomatoes. It is held on the last Wednesday of August and sees an average of 20 000 to 30 000 people participating, both locals and international tourists. It is held in Buñol, a very small town in Valencia, Spain.
Burning Man – as a tribute to the community in Blackrock Desert, Nevada, an 8-day festival is held. It is all about camping, fun and relying on the barter system (as no cash is accepted except to purchase water and ice) in order to raise money and awareness about this society. It culminates with the burning of a 72-foot ‘man’, made of wood. Approximately 45 000 to 50 000 people attend this mammoth event every year.
Songkran – the Thai New Year is celebrated by engaging in a massive water fight (as water symbolises the cleansing of your sins and the renewal of yourself). It is held in the middle of April and is held all over Thailand. The biggest, most well attended parties are usually in Bangkok and Chang Mai.
The Glastonbury Music Festival – this festival lasts for 3 days and attracts more than 175 000 spectators from all over the world. It is held in June to celebrate the wonders of the earth, art, music and culture. Hundreds of bands perform in Pilton (England) while the spectators camp over, socialise, dance and have fun.
Australia Day – on 26 January, the Australians celebrate the first European settlement in the annals of history by enjoying barbecues, beer and fun with friends and family. While politically based, this day has become a favourite tradition of patriotism and celebrating all things Australian.
