March has finally arrived and spring is in sight. The days are getting longer and it shouldn’t be long until the weather starts to warm up (we hope!). While you’re waiting for the first glimpses of spring sunshine here are 10 exciting prize ideas for competitions or group trips to set your imagination running.
Holi, IndiaThe perfect way to welcome in the colourful spring season, Holi is a celebration like no other. Throughout India the streets are filled with locals and tourists alike, who celebrate the festival by throwing bright dyes, powders and liquids. The rainbow of hues created, coupled with the sheer energy of the event, makes this an incredible time to visit India. | ||
SXSW, Austin, USAOriginally an indie music festival, South by Southwest (SXSW) has expanded over recent years to include a film programme to rival that of Cannes, as well as a technology showcase. Much of SXSW’s music scene is dedicated to showcasing up and coming new performers so this is the perfect place to discover your new favourite artist. Away from the festival, the city of Austin is a vibrant and interesting city with some of the best food in Texas; make sure you get out and explore! | ||
St. Patrick’s Day, IrelandOn the 17th March each year an army of green-clad revellers celebrate the day of the Irish patron saint with dancing, merriment and copious amounts of Guinness. No-one parties like the the Irish so come and experience the craic for yourself. | ||
National Grape Harvest, ArgentinaMendoza is Argentina’s most famous wine growing region and the perfect host location for the country’s biggest wine party. The celebrations for Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia last 10 days and include fireworks, parades, dancing and – of course – plenty of opportunities for wine tastings. One of the highlights from the harvest is the crowning of the Harvest Queen, a title which is taken very seriously. Visitors line the streets for a glimpse of the contenders in the hope that they can catch a cluster of grapes thrown by their favourite. | ||
Beyond Wonderland, California, USABeyond Wonderland is Alice’s adventures meets festival frolics. Indulge in an ‘Eat Me’ cupcake à la Wonderland; dance to dubstep at the Queen’s Domain stage, complete with giant hookah-smoking caterpillar; or listen to booming baselines at the Mad Hatter’s Castle. Beyond Wonderland is a sexy, sparkling, storybook festival like no other. | ||
Las Fallas Festival, Valenica, SpainLas Fallas is a 5 day fiesta leading up to the feast of St. Joseph, patron saint of the city of Valenica. Steeped in tradition, and with more than a little satire, elaborate fallas sculptures are paraded through the city as temporary art exhibitions. The finale sees all statues, except the one voted the favourite, burnt to the ground to represent renewal of the spirit. Featuring parades, fireworks and street parties, it’s a noisy and dramatic celebration that really shouldn’t be missed. | ||
Calle Ocho, Miami, USAThe Calle Ocho is a laid-back Latino fiesta set on the streets of party-loving Miami. Held across 23 city blocks in Little Havana, Calle Ocho is all about chilled tunes and succulent street food. Stroll from the sounds of salsa to the music of merengue, stopping en route to pick up delicious pinchos and tamales. | ||
Equinox at Chichén Itzá, MexicoChichén Itzá is an awe-inspiring sight at the best of times but no more so than during the equinox, when the light falls in a unique way purported to be symbolic of day and night. Large crowds of visitors flock to the ancient Mayan city to witness the spectacle for themselves and explore the famous ruins. | ||
Starkbierfest, Munich, GermanyWhy wait until October, when the Starkbierfest (Strong Beer Festival) is celebrated in March? More intimate than Oktoberfest, this popular local festival sees individual Munich breweries host special events. Bavarian classic food is served up alongside liquid refreshment and live music abounds as punters sit at gingham-clad tables to tap their feet and raise a glass in celebration. | ||
Keukenhof Gardens, AmsterdamThe spectacular Keukenhof Gardens open their doors in March to showcase the incredible colour and variety of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. Just a short hop from Amsterdam, the beautiful landscaped 32-hectare site features formal displays and stunning sculpture alongside over 7 million hand planted flower bulbs. |
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