Discover Europe’s Autumn Festivals

From the weather to the food, there are a lot of good reasons to make the journey to a European hotspot in the summer months. However, a hidden gem of sorts is just how magnificent it is to visit Europe in autumn.

Hear leaves crunching underfoot as you walk down the canals in Amsterdam. Smell the scent of mulled wine as you explore town centres that have been transformed with market stalls. Eat some of the finest European delicacies. See streets lined with vibrant foliage.

Another great aspect to visiting Europe in autumn is the fact that the festival season is well and truly swinging into gear. Expertly utilising some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes as their backdrop, these festivals celebrate everything from food and drink to culture and history.

Amsterdam Lights Festival, The Netherlands

A 53 day event ranging from the 30th of November to the 21st of January, the Amsterdam Lights Festival has to be seen to be believed. The open-air exhibition makes use of specially created artwork to showcase something special.

This year, the festival’s theme centres around artificial intelligence and digital technology so expect to see sculptures and art installations that push the limits, all while doubling as conversation starters.

Our top tip: be informed. The lights operate from 5pm to 11pm every night, however, on New Year’s Eve, they will be turned off at 8pm. So, to avoid disappointment, make sure to get there before closing.

Bonfire Night, London

Dating back to 1605, Guy Fawkes Night - now commonly referred to as Bonfire Night - marks a monumental night in British history. After a plot by Guy Fawkes to take down the King was thwarted, Londoners celebrated with bonfires and fireworks.

Today, spots all over London mark Bonfire Night with an array of different festivities. Alexandra Park doubles as a German beer festival, complete with music and of course, the light show. Meanwhile, places like Wimbledon Park and Battersea Park combine music and funfair rides with warming food and drink from local street villages and bars before the main event, the fireworks, begin. 

Top Bonfire Night tip: find a spot early. Popular locations like Battersea Park tend to see crowds gathering early. This is because the banks of the river Thames make for a great outlook as the fireworks let loose up above.

Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival, Hungary

Running from the end of September through to the first week of October, the Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival celebrates something quintessentially European, and that is rich culture.

In order to highlight just how vibrant the cultural scene is in Budapest, the festival shines a light on reformist artists through forms ranging from music concerts and fine art to exhibitions and dance. 

Our top tip: there are so many different venues associated with the Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival. To make sure you hit all the right spots, make sure to print out a venue map and create a route that allows you to see everything that might spark your interest.

Oktoberfest, Germany

From September 16th to October 3rd, Munich, Bavaria, will play host to the 118th iteration of Oktoberfest. Celebrating the best of German food, live music, and culture, Oktoberfest commands more than six million international and national attendees each year.

Packed full of events, Oktoberfest festivities include an opening and closing ceremony, along with various parades, a religious mass, outdoors concerts and even a gun salute. There is truly something for everybody. 

Top Oktoberfest tip: make sure to put some thought into your clothes! Some like to pair the traditional Dirndls with blouses and trousers while others incorporate shorts and shirts and the signature German footwear.

Amsterdam Dance Event, The Netherlands

Between the 18th and 22nd of October, Amsterdam became Europe’s capital of electronic music. This event is quite unique, not only does it provide a platform to listen to great electronic dance music, but, by day it also doubles as a conference.

With experts in the field coming from all over the world to inspire the next generation, people will get to learn tips and tricks, all while enjoying a program that celebrates energy and innovation.

Top Dance Event tip: there are over 2,500 artists performing across the city. To ensure you don’t miss out on experiencing both established and up and coming artists, do some research before choosing a venue. This way, you can discover something different every night.

Falmouth Oyster Festival, England

Occurring every autumn for the past 25 years, the Falmouth Oyster Festival is a Cornwall institution. Taking place at Discovery Quay in the old seaside English town, the festival is all about celebrating fresh food, live music and craft.

While some flock to the festival for the Grand Oyster Parade and the shucking competition, others are drawn to the cooking demonstrations by regional top chefs and the abundance of ale and wine bars on offer.

Our top tip: with a host of free events on offer, expect a crowd for the duration of the festival. Also, be mindful that while the majority of events are free, the night time concerts will command an entrance fee.

Festival of Lights, Berlin

With the aim of making the city a stage, the Festival of Lights in Berlin is a celebration of light art, colour and inclusivity. By shining a light on both landmarks and elements of diversity, a sense of respect and appreciation is fostered.

Featuring light installations designed by people from all over the world, each buys into the idea of focusing on values ranging from uniqueness and dignity to respect and acceptance. Showing how differences can make life more colourful.

Top tip for the Festival of Lights: choose your route carefully. Landmarks all over the city are lit up and as this attraction is free, you’re going to want to hit as many stops as possible. For the most efficient route, make sure to have a plan of attack.

Tollwood Winter Festival, Munich

In Europe, the seasonal transition between autumn and winter can be seamless. While winter is undoubtedly marked by colder temperatures, the allure of European festivals remains the same.

One of the great winter festivals is that of Tollwood. Held in the very centre of Europe from the 23rd of November to the 31st of December, it’s often referred to as Munich’s alternative Christmas Market and features great food and entertainment.

Our top tip: the Tollwood Winter Festival offers a myriad of free entertainment, however, you should be aware that attendance at about 10% of the live theatre, music and other performance events requires a ticket.

Hogmanay, Edinburgh

Referred to by some as the world’s most famous New Year’s Festival, Hogmanay runs from the 29th of December to New Year’s Day. Complete with street parties and concerts, fireworks and free family events, it’s not hard to see why 140,000 people attend Hogmanay each year.

This year Hogmanay is going to be particularly special as it celebrates 30 years of fun and festivities. From the torchlight procession and street party to the concert in the gardens, there is something for everyone.

Top tip for Hogmanay festival: plan well in advance. With 140,000 other revellers to contend with, attractions and food and drink venues will book up in no time. To avoid disappointment, start making plans now.

Christmas Markets 

Synonymous with Europe is the Christmas Markets. Most European cities have town squares dedicated to the Christmas spirit, however, no one can compete with the Frankfurt, Salzburg and Prague Christmas Markets.

The Frankfurt Christmas Market dates back to 1393. Expect to delight in the scale of the Christmas lights and associated illumination. In Salzburg, marvel at the hand-knitted goods. In Prague, arrive with an empty stomach so you can appreciate the plethora of food and drink.

Top tip for the Christmas Markets: make sure to check opening hours. Each market will differ in how long and how frequently they stay open. Additionally, some nights of the week there will be special events, so, for the most unique experience, make sure you know the schedule.

Final thoughts

Planning a European adventure is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In order to ensure that you have the most authentic and awe-inspiring adventure possible, consider visiting Europe in the later parts of the year.

From September to mid-November and mid-November to March, Europe experiences their autumn and winter seasons. While Europe draws great crowds in summer, travel is altogether different in autumn and winter.

For one, foliage is either coming to life or complete with a dusting of snow. However, the major drawcard is the festivals. Celebrating the best of history, art and culture, the autumn to winter season is where Europe comes to life, offering travellers a one-of-a-kind adventure.