Festivals of Europe: fireworks, fancy dress and fun!

2012 is a year of celebration, fun and frolics for those in the UK that are marked by the historic landmark of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, as well as the momentous arrival of the Olympics.

If you enjoy the party vibe so much that you don’t want the frivolity and communal fun to end, it is possible to combine your holiday in Europe with a world-famous Festival. Join the local populace to embrace their celebration.  Here is a small selection of the Festivals available through the rest of the year:

La Tomatina, Valencia, Spain – does what it says on the tin – tomatoes abound in the world’s biggest and messiest food fight!  For big and little kids that will adore slipping and sliding in the one hundred metric tons of tomatoes provided, make sure you are around for the last Wednesday in August every year.  As well as the tomato-fest, there is also a week of music, parades, dancing, fireworks and a paella cooking competition.  Sounds like your kind of fun?

Find out more about  La Tomatina

Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany – for beer and fun lovers, head to Munich between September 22^nd  to October 7^th October 2012.  Apart from the heady offerings of the six major Munich breweries, served in 14 beer tents, there are over 200 attractions and sideshows.  These range from spectacular large rides to traditional funfair attractions.  Tuck into authentic Bavarian cuisine such as spit-roasted ox, bratwurst and spicy fish.

Get the lowdown at Oktoberfest info

Pamplona Bull Run, Spain – The world renowned San Fermin festival runs from 6-14^th July each year.  The thrilling spectacle of brave runners evading being cornered by an angry bull combines with an intoxicating party atmosphere.  The ‘raison d’etre’ of the spectacle is to lead the fearsome bulls through the streets of the old quarter as far as the bull ring.

You may not be able to find travel insurance to cover you for injuries relating to running with the bulls, but travel insurance does cover you for medical emergencies whilst abroad, as well as a host of other misfortunes such as theft or damage to valuables.

Search for your perfect single trip travel insurance product, be it backpackers travel insurance or long stay travel insurance.