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Discovering the Top Festivals in Europe

Best Festivals in Europe to Visit This Year

European festivals are full of fun and flavour, whatever the season. With P&O Ferries routes offering flexible crossings and fuss-free travel, you can dive straight into the fun with ease and everything you need for an unforgettable adventure.

  • Festival of Lights, Lyon, France
    In December, Lyon sparkles with four festive nights of Fête des Lumières. Popular with people of all ages, this festival of light fills the city with beauty, floating figures and views and things to visit you don’t want to miss.

  • Lord Mayor’s Show, London
    Every November, London comes alive with parades, music, and celebrations, blending British tradition with lively street festivities.

  • Sinterklaas Procession, Amsterdam
    Every December, Sinterklaas arrives in Amsterdam with spiced biscuits, festive parades, and balcony speeches. Take the Hull to Rotterdam route for a smooth start to the celebration, where festive scenes bring sweet smiles across the city.

  • Oktoberfest, Germany
    Held annually from mid-September to early October, Oktoberfest is one of Europe’s top beer festivals, offering Bavarian food, live music, and a lively, festive atmosphere.

  • Alba White Truffle Fair, Italy
    From October to December, Alba celebrates its famous white truffles with tastings, markets, and culinary displays, offering a true taste of Italian tradition. Travel down via the Dover to Calais route and treat yourself to Italy’s finest seasonal delicacies.
Types of Festivals in Europe: Something for Everyone

No matter your style, there’s a festival in Europe for you.

  • Food & Drink Festivals
    Tuck into tasty treats at the best food festivals in Europe.

    • Lille Braderie (France): Shop and snack your way through this giant flea market with local cuisine on every corner.

    • Festival TREK (Rotterdam): This festival turns Rotterdam’s Vroesenpark into a feast-filled fair, with plenty of food trucks and family-friendly fun. Its  street-side snacks and a carefree crowd, it’s an annual celebration of flavour and festivity.

    • Bruges Beer Festival (Belgium): Sip, sample, and learn from master brewers what makes Belgian beer so great.

    • Galway International Oyster Festival (Ireland): Celebrate fresh seafood with oyster-shucking contests, feasts, and coastal charm.

  • Cultural Festivals
    Want something more traditional?

    • European Heritage Open Days (Northern Ireland): Held mid September every year,  this event invites exploration of architectural heritage and historic landmarks, celebrating history.

  • Family-Friendly festivals vs. Adults-Only
    Looking for fun for all ages? Try

    • Keukenhof Tulip Festival (Netherlands) offers flower-filled fields to bass-pumping beats, this is one of Europe’s biggest festivals that brings something for everyone

    • Adults can head to Sonar Festival (Spain) for edgy beats and electric nights.

Top Tips for Enjoying Festivals in Europe

Planning Festival Travel in Europe

Planning ahead helps you make the most of every moment. Here are five fun festival tips to keep your trip smooth and stress-free:

  1. Book Early
    Big-name festivals like Tomorrowland and Oktoberfest sell out fast. Secure your spot early and sail smoothly with P&O Ferries to lock in your dream dates and a comfy cabin.

  2. Pack Smart
    Weather in Europe can be unpredictable. So, stash layers and spare chargers. Smart packing keeps you comfy, whatever happens with the weather.

  3. Budget Wisely
    Festivals don't have to drain your wallet. Do you research and discover the best places to eat and stay whichever festival you visit.

  4. Stay Synced
    Download event apps and maps. They help you find what you are looking for and everything else in between.

  5. Travel Stress-Free
    Avoid airport anxiety. Travel with P&O Ferries for scenic sea views, no baggage limits, and a calm, carefree crossing.
Why Travel by P&O Ferries?

Festival season is all about fun, not stress. P&O Ferries gives you a smooth and scenic way to travel.

  • Luggage Freedom
    Tents, costumes, snacks, and speakers, bring it all. With no baggage limits, you can pack freely, whether you are camping or visiting a day festival, luggage is endless on P&O Ferries.

  • Comfort at Every Crossing
    Stretch out in spacious cabins, sink into soft seating, and sample freshly prepared meals onboard.

  • Flexible Travel Times
    Want to extend your trip? Or shop after the festival? No problem. Travel your way, on your time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1 What is the biggest festival in Europe?
Oktoberfest in Germany is the biggest festival in Europe, attracting millions of visitors each year with Bavarian food, beer, and centuries-old traditions.
2 Where is the best festival in Europe?
In 2025, two of the best festivals in Europe are Germany’s Oktoberfest (20 Sept–5 Oct), famous for Bavarian food and beer, and London’s Lord Mayor’s Show (8 Nov), a historic event full of British tradition. Wherever you’re heading, set sail with P&O Ferries for a flexible, fuss-free journey to Europe’s biggest celebrations.
3 How to travel to festivals in Europe?
The easiest way is to take a P&O Ferries ship to any of our European ports, combining comfort and flexibility. From there, you can reach festival destinations by train, bus, or car, taking all your gear with you hassle-free. So don’t hesitate and book your ferry to Europe today.