Summer is over, thus the days are shorter, the air is colder, and the hats and gloves are out…but, just because the snow is coming does not mean we should go into hibernation! With all the rocking fall festivals in the lineup across the pond, now is the perfect time to head to Europe (and make your summer vacation last just a little bit longer)!
5. Oktoberfest, Germany
Beer lovers and partiers rejoice! Munich is the stomping grounds for Oktoberfest, an all-you-can-drink beer festival from September 19th to October 4th, 2015. While Oktoberfest is held all over Germany, Munich is where all the real action is. This event is worth planning a trip to Europe, and although the festival has already passed, it books up quick, so get ahead of the game and start planning! This festival is all about pounding back a pint (or several) with the locals, who are up at the crack of dawn drinking, celebrating, and loving life. What better time to join in on the fun! Das Boot anyone?
4. Festes de la Mercè, Spain
Year round is a giant street party in Barcelona, so for there to be a festival at the end of September claiming to be the city’s greatest party, you know it has to be epic. From the 18th to the 24th of September, the festival is the official send-off of summer, and the city bids adieu with a bang. The streets literally come alive with fire during the Correfoc (there is a slightly less intense fire run for kids earlier in the day, while the event for adults waits until dusk), and many parades and street vendors invade the city with music, dance, great food and delicious drink. You’ll see street performers, human pyramids, projection shows, and all the fun you can possibly imagine. It is not just for the tourists, the locals anticipate this event all summer. But come to Barcelona for this festival and you can’t help but be thankful that summer has gone. It’s an unforgettable festival sure to keep you energized for the coming winter.
3. Iceland Airwaves, Iceland
From November 4th to 8th this year, nearly 9,000 people will take over the island of Iceland. Downtown Reykjavik is overrun with eager festival goers and partiers looking to take in the latest and greatest musical acts. The setting couldn’t be more perfect for this festival. The music seems to seep into your soul and extend into the vast wilderness surrounding the capital. People who attend are eager to party, Reykjavik is a small town, so if you are looking for peace and quiet, maybe avoid Iceland during this time. But, if you are looking for great music, fun locals, new friends, and memories you won’t forget, head to Iceland!
2. Wine Festival, Moldova
In one of the most underrated countries in Europe is one of the most underrated festivals of the year. The Moldova Wine Festival, held every year during the first weekend of October. The Moldovan’s are proud of their wine, as they should be. Moldovan’s wine is rich, delicious, and, consumed in large quantities over the weekend of this festival. Their wine is celebrated all over the country, but the main events are held in the capital, Chisinau. Sponsors set up booths all over the main square for taste testing, while locals provide tons of entertainment like dancing and music. The locals welcome travellers to their festival, and are eager to have a great time. Moldova is the perfect place to extend your summer vacation!
1. Lollapalooza, Berlin
Two straight days of non-stop, heart pounding music, friends, and awesome vibes in one of the most eclectic cities in the world is what you sign up for when you head to Lollapalooza. Some of the world’s best and most well-known artists from a plethora of genres take over Berlin and lead you in a massive, city wide, 48 hour party. And being the first European edition of the festival, you can be sure that the city will be pulling out all of the stops. Being an international city, expect amazing food and drink, unbelievable music, and an art and social environment unlike any other. Berlin is the place to be in September, so pack your most colorful clothes, party shoes and get ready to tear up the streets for Lollapalooza!
