In many respects, Europe is the intellectual and artistic center of the Western world. The continent is a traveler’s paradise due to its wide variety of languages, peoples, and historical sites. French, Italian, Czech, and Austrian capitals have a rich history as cultural epicenters. As a result, it should come as no surprise that European festivals are the biggest in the world.
European music festivals celebrate everything from traditional music to contemporary art to the stunning landscapes surrounding them. These events will blow the minds next year by promising to be even improved. See every one of them! Europe is home to various experiences, whether you’re interested in cuisine, music, nature, or something else.
Spain Music Festivals
A great music festival has been organized in one of Europe’s best cities, which has eluded most of its rivals. You may see up-and-coming artists at Sonar by Day, and a wide range of prominent DJs and bands, mainly from the electronic music scene, during Sonar by Night. If you’re very dedicated, you could do both and still be able to rave till 8 a.m. on Sunday. If you can’t afford the full €185 abono ticket, there are plenty of ‘off-sonar’ parties and activities to attend (many of which are free).
Veszprém
Fest
The greatest in opera, jazz, classical, world, and pop music are brought to Veszprém every year by VeszprémFest. This festival does not limit itself to a particular genre but strives for the highest worldwide standards and excellence. Live performances by famous artists are just a tiny part of what makes VeszprémFest unique.
The concerts’ extraordinary settings help to set them apart. Performances in earlier years were hosted in the stunning Baroque-style castle area immediately in front of the Archbishop’s Palace. Still, in recent years tourists have been able to attend concerts at the Historia Garden, which has a breathtaking perspective of the castle. In addition, classical music concerts have been held in the park close to the old Jesuit Monastery at Veszprém Valley as part of VeszprémFest in recent years.
The Rosé, Riesling, and Jazz Days are a companion event held at város square, showcasing the high quality of wine and cuisine made by Balaton area wineries and local artisans, and including performances by young artists from the Hungarian jazz scene.
Colors of Ostrava
The 2019 edition of Colours of Ostrava, which will take place over two dozen outdoor & indoor stages, will include a wide range of current and classic artists performing genres as diverse as electro, folk music, jazz, indie rock, or reggae. In addition, there will be approximately 350 performances, talks, workshops, performances, art installations, and kid-friendly activities for festivalgoers to enjoy.
The festival’s unique setting among the city’s historic mines and steelworks, now a European Cultural Heritage Site, is only one of its many strengths. Despite its urban setting, the festival grounds are lush with trees and grass, and several shady areas are perfect for resting and relaxing. Camping on the beautiful grounds of the Ostrava Silesian Castle is one choice, while hotels and apartments in the city’s heart are another. In addition, the festival site is conveniently located within walking distance of the city’s central tram system, making travel to and from the city a breeze.
Wacken Open Air
Attracting thousands of metal and hard rock fans each year, Germany hosts Wacken Open Air for a weekend of nonstop thrashing. One of the greatest music festivals in the world, this four-day event has been going strong since 1990. The festival takes place in the small town of Wacken, located approximately 80 kilometers northwest of Hamburg. It features performances by more than 150 bands over eight stages, including the main stage and two platforms. Rock out till the morning light with performances from major acts like Iron Maiden, Opeth, & Children of Bodom.
Wide Awake Festival
Brockwell Park in South London is the site of the Wide Awake Festival during the second Bank Holiday weekend in May. The event caters to Londoners looking for a change of pace from the typical day festival fare. They look for jazz, post-punk, techno, and more and put on a fantastic live music show that features various genres.
The legendary band Primal Scream will perform their whole album Screamadelica live on stage (for the first time in over ten years), joined by Floating Points, Caribou, and others. Another headlining artist who appeared to rule the festival circuit last year is on the stage tonight: Bicep. This year’s event will have a lineup with 50% women and underrepresented genders since Wide Awake is a part of Keychange.
Your experiences at these European festivals will be unlike any other and will leave you with unforgettable memories. So put these dates on your calendar and consider taking a vacation to Europe to experience the continent’s culture firsthand during one of these exciting events. Lastly, read more about travel around the world here.
