Worldwide, there are several major cities and countries that each celebrate their own "National High Mass. There are significant events everywhere that are of some national importance that often have a story or ritual from the past associated with them.
We spotlight some of them and are happy to knit a program with them!
King's Day in the Netherlands
The Netherlands turns orange every year during King's Day, the national celebration in honor of King Willem-Alexander's birthday. What once began as a celebration of royalty has grown into one of the most enjoyable and exuberant days of the year. Throughout the country it is buzzing with free markets, festivals, boat parades and street parties. Kings Day brings young and old together in a unique atmosphere of togetherness and festivity, and this in several major Dutch cities.
When: Annually on April 27
How? Think everyone with orange accessories, boating on the canals with entertainment and music, Dutch classics....
Oktoberfest in Germany
Starting in late September, Munich fills up with millions of visitors for the world's largest beer festival: Oktoberfest. Welcome to this colorful mix of tradition, conviviality and, of course, beer - lots of beer. In big beer tents surrounded by merry-go-rounds, parades and live brass bands, people from all over the world celebrate together in lederhosen and dirndl. But Oktoberfest also has infectious popularity outside of Bavaria: from local editions in other cities to international variants - everywhere glasses are raised and people party German style.
When: Annually from late September to early October (this year from 20/09 - 5/10)
How? We reserve a large table in one of the typical beer tents and provide traditional lederhosen for the whole group.
Saint Patrick's Day in Ireland
During Saint Patrick's Day, everything turns completely green for a moment, Ireland's national holiday now celebrated worldwide. The religious commemoration of Saint Patricius has become a vibrant folk festival filled with music, dancing, parades and, last but not least, a good glass of Guinness. From Dublin to New York and from Sydney to Amsterdam, people dressed in green and three-leaf clovers are popping up on the streets everywhere to celebrate together Irish style. A day when folklore, friendship and revelry come together - whether you are Irish or just feel that way for a moment.
When: Annually on March 17
How? Like walking four-leaf clovers with orange beards and a Guinness in hand, dancing through the streets of Ireland and watching the various parades and processions.
La Tomatina in Buñol, Valencia
For one day in late August, the quiet Spanish town of Buñol turns into a big red, slippery chaos during La Tomatina: the world's biggest tomato fight. Thousands of revelers from all corners of the world gather to - armed with ripe tomatoes - engage in an hour-long friendly battle in the streets. A special experience that you won't soon forget - except perhaps whatever clothes you were wearing.
This is perfect to combine with a program in Valencia, which is a good half-hour drive away.
When: Annually on the last Wednesday of August
How? With an outfit that can go straight into the trash after the tomato fight, we trek through the streets of Buñol with an ample supply of tomatoes. Afterwards, we provide a refreshing glass to wash it all down.
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
If there is one city where carnival becomes a spectacle of global proportions, it is Rio de Janeiro. For five days the Brazilian metropolis is bursting at the seams with samba, color, glitter and unprecedented energy. From the impressive parades in the Sambadrome to the hundreds of street parties (blocos) in every neighborhood, the entire country celebrates, dances and shines. Originally with a Catholic slant, it has now evolved into a cultural highlight full of expression, rhythm and connection. Carnival in Rio is not an event you visit - it is an experience that completely engulfs you.
When: Annually the week before Christian Lent (this year it was from 28/2 - 5/3)
How? We reserve seats in the bleachers of this elongated open-air street where all the floats, dancers and live percussion bands pass by. Enjoy the shows and the infectious music.
