Discover the Best 15 City Break Festivities
Get ready to experience the best City Break festive days! From the vibrant green streets of Dublin on St. Patrick’s Day to the historic military parades of Paris on Bastille Day, there’s a celebration for everyone. In this blog, we take you on a journey to 15 of the most exciting and unique City Break festive days, showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of each destination. Whether you’re a history buff, culture enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and unique experience, this blog has something for everyone. So pack your bags for your next City Break and get ready to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of some of the world’s most vibrant cities.
1. Dublin St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin is a festival that brings together the people of Dublin and visitors from around the world to celebrate the rich history and culture of Ireland. Whether you are looking to take part in the parade, enjoy some live music and dancing, or sample the best of Irish cuisine, there is something for everyone during St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin.
St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on the 17th of March to commemorate the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. The history of St. Patrick’s Day dates back to the 17th century, when the day was made an official feast day by the Catholic Church. The day has since become a celebration of Irish heritage and culture, and is now celebrated around the world as a symbol of Irish pride and unity. In Dublin, St. Patrick’s Day is marked by a series of festivities that take place throughout the city.
The highlight of the celebrations is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is a grand procession that winds its way through the streets of Dublin, filled with colourful floats, marching bands, and street performers. The parade attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a truly spectacular sight to behold. There are many other events and activities that take place during St. Patrick’s Day. There are concerts and musical performances in various venues around the city, as well as open-air festivals and cultural exhibitions that showcase the best of Irish music, dance, and art.
One of the most popular St. Patrick’s Day events in Dublin is the St. Patrick’s Day Festival, which is a four-day festival that takes place in and around the city centre. The festival features a variety of events and activities, including music performances, dance workshops, cultural exhibitions, and food markets.
The St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Dublin are not limited to just one day, as the festivities continue well into the night. There are many pubs and bars around the city that offer live music and traditional Irish drinks, such as Guinness and whiskey, and provide the perfect setting for a lively and celebratory atmosphere.
When: 17th of March (every year)
2. Athens Greek Independence Day
Greek Independence Day in Athens is a day of national pride and celebration, and a chance for Greeks to come together to remember their rich cultural heritage and commemorate the country’s independence. Greek Independence Day, also known as Greek National Day, is a national holiday and marks the start of the Greek War of Independence in 1821, which saw the Greeks rise up against Ottoman rule and gain their independence.
In Athens the celebrations for Greek Independence Day are particularly grand and involve a number of festivities and events. The day begins with a military parade, which takes place in the centre of the city and includes marching soldiers, brass bands, and military vehicles. The parade is watched by thousands of people, including the President of Greece and other dignitaries.
Another highlight of the celebrations in Athens is the raising of the Greek flag on top of the Acropolis, which is accompanied by a 21-gun salute. This is followed by religious ceremonies and church services, as well as patriotic speeches and cultural events. One of the most popular events during Greek Independence Day in Athens is the city’s traditional carnival, which takes place in the streets and squares of the city centre.
The carnival features colourful floats, live music and dance performances, and food stalls selling traditional Greek cuisine. There are also concerts, theatrical performances, and exhibitions that take place throughout the city during the celebrations. These events showcase the best of Greek culture and heritage, and will provide you with an opportunity to learn about the country’s rich history and traditions during your city break to Athens.
Whether you are looking to take part in the military parade, enjoy the carnival atmosphere, or learn more about Greece’s rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone during Greek Independence Day in Athens.
When: 25th of March 2023
3. Amsterdam Kings Day
King’s Day in Amsterdam is a truly unique and unforgettable experience, offering a chance to celebrate the national holiday in one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in Europe. King’s Day, also known as Koningsdag, is a national holiday in the Netherlands to commemorate the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. It is a day of national pride and celebration, and is particularly popular in Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands.
King’s Day in Amsterdam is a lively and vibrant festival that takes over the city, with streets, parks, and canals filled with people dressed in orange, the national colour of the Netherlands. The celebrations begin early in the morning and continue well into the night, with a wide range of events and activities taking place throughout the city. One of the main events of King’s Day in Amsterdam is the Vrijmarkt, or free market, which is a massive street market where people can buy and sell a variety of items, including clothing, toys, and food. The Vrijmarkt is one of the largest street markets in Europe, and attracts ten thousands of visitors each year.
In addition to the Vrijmarkt, there are many other events and activities taking place during King’s Day in Amsterdam, including live music performances, street theatre, and boat parties on the canals. There are also a number of cultural events, such as exhibitions and festivals, that showcase the best of Dutch art, music, and literature.
King’s Day in Amsterdam is a family-friendly event, and there are many activities and events designed for children, including face-painting, bouncy castles, and children’s performances. There is also a special children’s parade that takes place in the city centre, featuring colourful floats and live music. On King’s Day in Amsterdam, there is an abundance of activities for people of all interests.
You can opt to participate in the energetic street festivities, sample the delicious local cuisine and beverages, or uncover the city’s abundant cultural legacy, and there will surely be something that appeals to you.
When: 27th of April (every year)
4. Berlin May Day
May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is a public holiday celebrated on May 1st in many countries around the world, including Germany. In Berlin, the capital city of Germany, May Day is a day of political rallies, demonstrations, and cultural events, reflecting the city’s rich history and diverse heritage.
One of the main events during May Day in Berlin is the political rally, which takes place in the city centre and is attended by members of various labour unions, political parties, and social organizations. These rallies are an opportunity for people to come together to voice their concerns and to advocate for workers’ rights, social justice, and political change.
Another highlight of the celebrations in Berlin on May Day is the cultural festival, which takes place in various venues throughout the city. This festival features live music, dance performances, and theatre shows, showcasing the best of Berlin’s cultural heritage. In addition to these events, there are also exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours that take place during May Day in Berlin. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, as well as to sample traditional German cuisine and drinks.
May Day in Berlin is a day of political activism and cultural celebration, and a chance for the people of Berlin to come together to voice their concerns and to celebrate their rich heritage. Enjoying a cultural festival, or exploring the city’s rich history and architecture are just a few of the many activities available to everyone during May Day in Berlin. There is something for you to experience and enjoy during your City Break to Berlin.
When: 1st of May 2023
5. Rome Festa Della Republica
Festa della Repubblica in Rome is a day of national pride and celebration, and a chance for the Italian people to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage. Festa della Repubblica, also known as Republic Day, marks the day in 1946 when the country voted to abolish the monarchy and establish a republic, and is a day of national pride and celebration for the Italian people.
In Rome, Festa della Repubblica is a major event that attracts people from all over the country. The celebrations in Rome are a mix of cultural, historical, and political events, reflecting the rich and diverse heritage of Italy. One of the main events is the military parade, which takes place in the city centre and features marching soldiers, brass bands, and military vehicles. This is followed by a political rally, which is attended by members of the Italian government, as well as political leaders from other countries.
Another highlight of the celebrations in Rome is the cultural festival, which takes place in various venues throughout the city. This festival features live music, dance performances, and theatre shows, showcasing the best of Italian culture and heritage. There are also exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours that take place during Festa della Repubblica. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the country’s rich history, art, and architecture, as well as to sample traditional Italian cuisine and drinks.
When you take a City Break in Rome during Festa della Repubblica, there are ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the city’s offerings. Joining the military parade, participating in the cultural festival, and discovering the city’s rich history and architecture are just a few of the many possibilities for a memorable and fulfilling experience.
When : 2nd of June 2023
6. Lisbon National Portugal Day
National Portugal Day marks the day when Portugal officially became a kingdom in 1139 and is a day of national pride and celebration for the Portuguese people. In Lisbon, National Portugal Day is an important event that attracts people from all over the country. The celebrations in Lisbon are a mix of cultural, historical, and religious events, reflecting the rich and diverse heritage of Portugal.
One of the main events during National Portugal Day in Lisbon is the military parade, which takes place in the city centre and features marching soldiers, brass bands, and military vehicles. This is followed by a religious procession, which winds its way through the streets of Lisbon and culminates in a mass at the Cathedral of Lisbon.
Another highlight of the celebrations in Lisbon is the cultural festival, which takes place in various venues throughout the city. This festival features live music, dance performances, and theatre shows, showcasing the best of Portuguese culture and heritage. There are also exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours that take place during National Portugal Day in Lisbon. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the country’s rich history, art, and architecture, as well as to sample traditional Portuguese cuisine and drinks.
National Portugal Day in Lisbon is a day of national pride and celebration, and a chance for the Portuguese people to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage. Whether you are looking to take part in the military parade, enjoy the cultural festival, or explore the city’s rich history and architecture, there is something for everyone during National Portugal Day in Lisbon.
When: 10th of June (every year)
7. New York Independence Day
Independence Day in New York City is a truly unique and unforgettable experience, offering a chance to celebrate one of the most important events in American history in one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in the world.
Also known as the Fourth of July, Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on July 4th. It marks the day in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was signed, declaring the independence of the 13 American colonies from British rule. In New York City, Independence Day is a major event that attracts visitors from all over the world. The city is home to some of the largest and most spectacular Independence Day celebrations in the country, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
One of the main events of Independence Day in New York City is the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular, which is one of the largest fireworks displays in the country. The fireworks are launched from several barges along the East River, providing a stunning and colourful display that is visible from many parts of the city. There are lots of events and activities as well, including live music performances, street festivals, and parades, which offer a chance to celebrate the holiday in a fun and festive atmosphere.
Taking a City Break in New York during Independence Day offers a range of exciting activities for all. Participating in the festivities, witnessing the fireworks display, and delving into the city’s rich cultural heritage are just a few of the ways to celebrate this special day.
When: 4th of July (every year)
8. Brussels National Belgium Day
National Belgium Day, also known as Belgian National Day, is a public holiday celebrated and marks the day in 1831 when the country declared its independence from the Netherlands. It is a day of national pride and celebration for the Belgian people. In Brussels, National Belgium Day is a major event that attracts people from all over the country. The celebrations in Brussels are a mix of cultural, historical, and political events, reflecting the rich and diverse heritage of Belgium.
One of the main events during National Belgium Day in Brussels is the military parade, which takes place in the city centre and features marching soldiers, brass bands, and military vehicles. This is followed by a political rally, which is attended by members of the Belgian government, as well as political leaders from other countries.
In addition to these events, there are also exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours that take place during National Belgium Day in Brussels. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the country’s rich history, art, and architecture, as well as to sample traditional Belgian cuisine and drinks. National Belgium Day in Brussels is an occasion for Belgians to revel in their national pride and rich cultural heritage.
With a military parade, a cultural festival, and opportunities to delve into the city’s history and architecture, there truly is something for you to enjoy during this celebratory day. If you enjoy being part of parades, immersing yourself in cultural ambiance, or discovering Brussels’ history, National Belgium Day presents a distinctive and unforgettable opportunity.
When: 21st of July
9. Paris Bastille Day
Bastille Day, also known as National Day or La Fête Nationale, is a day of national pride and celebration for the French people, celebrated annually on July 14th. Marking the beginning of the French Revolution, this public holiday is a time for the French to come together and celebrate their rich cultural heritage.
Paris is the epicentre of Bastille Day celebrations. With a mix of military, cultural, and historical events, the day is a showcase of France’s diverse heritage. The military parade on the Champs-Élysées features marching soldiers, brass bands, and military vehicles, followed by a display of military aircraft and fighter jets flying overhead in a display of national pride.
The cultural festival, taking place in various venues throughout the city, offers live music, dance performances, and theater shows that highlight the best of French culture. Exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours also take place, providing an opportunity to learn about France’s rich history, art, and architecture, and to sample traditional French cuisine.
No matter what your interests are, Bastille Day promises a unique and memorable City Break to Paris. From participating in the grand military parade, to experiencing the cultural festival, to exploring the city’s rich history and architecture, this national holiday offers a wide range of activities for you to enjoy.
When: 14th of July (every year)
10. Zurich Swiss National Day
Swiss National Day is a public holiday celebrated on August 1st in Switzerland, marking the country’s independence and unity. In Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, Swiss National Day is a day of national pride and celebration, and an opportunity for people to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage.
One of the main events during Swiss National Day in Zurich is the parade, which takes place in the city centre and features marching bands, traditional Swiss costumes, and colourful floats. This parade is a celebration of Swiss culture and heritage, and is attended by people of all ages and backgrounds. Another highlight of the celebrations in Zurich on Swiss National Day is the firework display, which takes place over Lake Zurich in the evening. This breath-taking display of pyrotechnics is a spectacular show of colour and light, and is enjoyed by thousands of people from all over the city.
There are also exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours that take place during Swiss National Day in Zurich. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, as well as to sample traditional Swiss cuisine and drinks. Swiss National Day in Zurich is a day of national pride and celebration, and a chance for the people of Zurich to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage.
No matter your preference, Swiss National Day in Zurich has something to offer for you. From participating in the festive parade, to witnessing the breath-taking firework display, to delving into the city’s rich history and architecture, this national holiday promises a diverse and memorable experience.
When: 1st of August (every year)
11. Budapest Hungary National Day
Hungary National Day, also known as St. Stephen’s Day, is a public holiday marking the country’s independence and sovereignty. One of the main events during National Day in Budapest is the parade, which takes place in the city centre and features marching bands, traditional Hungarian costumes, and colourful floats.
This parade is a celebration of Hungarian culture and heritage, and is attended by people of all ages and backgrounds. Another highlight of the celebrations in Budapest on National Day is the fireworks display, which takes place over the Danube River in the evening. This breath-taking display of pyrotechnics is a spectacular show of colour and light, and is enjoyed by thousands of people from all over the city.
Hungary National Day in Budapest is a day of national pride and celebration, and a chance for the people of Budapest to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage. Whether you are looking to attend the parade, enjoy the fireworks display, or explore the city’s rich history and architecture, there is something for to enjoy during a city break to National Day in Budapest.
When: 20th of August (every year)
12. Barcelona National Day Catalunya
National Day of Catalonia, also known as La Diada, is a public holiday celebrated on September 11th in Catalonia, a region in northeastern Spain that includes the city of Barcelona. La Diada is a day of national pride and celebration, and an opportunity for people to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage.
One of the main events during La Diada in Barcelona is the parade, which takes place in the city center and features marching bands, traditional Catalan costumes, and colorful floats. This parade is a celebration of Catalan culture and heritage, and is attended by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Another highlight of the celebrations in Barcelona on La Diada is the human tower competition, or “castells,” which is a traditional Catalan folk dance. Teams of people come together to form elaborate and intricate towers, showcasing the strength and unity of the Catalan people.
In addition to these events, there are also exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours that take place during La Diada in Barcelona. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, as well as to sample traditional Catalan cuisine and drinks.
In conclusion, National Day of Catalonia in Barcelona is a day of national pride and celebration, and a chance for the people of Catalonia to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage. Whether you are looking to attend the parade, watch the human tower competition, or explore the city’s rich history and architecture, there is something for everyone during La Diada in Barcelona.
When: 11th of September 2023
13. Seville All Saints Day
All Saints Day is a public holiday celebrated on November 1st in many countries, including Spain. In Seville, the capital city of the Andalusian region in southern Spain, All Saints Day is a day of commemoration and celebration, as well as an opportunity for people to come together to honor the memory of their loved ones who have passed away.
One of the main events during All Saints Day in Seville is the procession of the “La Macarena” brotherhood, which takes place in the city center and features a procession of hooded penitents carrying a statue of the Virgin Mary. This procession is a religious event that has taken place in Seville for many centuries, and is attended by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Another highlight of the celebrations in Seville on All Saints Day is the visiting of cemeteries, where families come together to place flowers and light candles on the graves of their loved ones. This is a time for quiet reflection and remembrance, and is an important part of the cultural traditions of Seville.
In addition to these events, there are also exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours that take place during All Saints Day in Seville. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, as well as to sample traditional Andalusian cuisine and drinks.
In conclusion, All Saints Day in Seville is a day of commemoration and celebration, as well as an opportunity for the people of Seville to come together to honor the memory of their loved ones who have passed away. Whether you are looking to attend the procession of La Macarena, visit the cemetery, or explore the city’s rich history and architecture, there is something for everyone during All Saints Day in Seville.
When: 1st of November (every year)
14. Valencia Day
Valencia Day is the name for a series of festivities and events that take place in Valencia, the third largest city in Spain, throughout the year. Valencia is a city with a rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene, and the festivities throughout the year reflect this vibrant and dynamic community.
One of the main events during Valencia Day is Las Fallas, a festival that takes place in March and celebrates the arrival of spring. During Las Fallas, massive wooden structures, called fallas, are erected throughout the city, and are then set on fire in a grand finale, known as the “La Nit del Foc” or the “Night of Fire”. This festival is a celebration of the creativity and ingenuity of the Valencian people, and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Another popular event during Valencia Day is the City of Arts and Sciences, a complex of futuristic buildings that houses some of the city’s most important cultural institutions, such as the Opera House, the Science Museum, and the Hemispheric Cinema. This complex is a symbol of Valencia’s commitment to the arts and sciences, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, technology, or the arts.
In addition to these events, there are also a variety of other festivals, exhibitions, concerts, and sporting events that take place throughout the year in Valencia. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, as well as to sample traditional Valencian cuisine and drinks.
In conclusion, Valencia Day is a series of festivities and events that take place throughout the year in Valencia, the third largest city in Spain. Whether you are looking to attend Las Fallas, explore the City of Arts and Sciences, or attend a sporting event, there is something for everyone during Valencia Day in Valencia.
When: 9th of October 2023
15. Madrid National Day Of Spain
National Day of Spain, also known as Dia de la Hispanidad or Columbus Day, is a public holiday celebrated on October 12th in Spain and many other countries around the world. In Madrid, the capital city of Spain, National Day is a day of national pride and celebration, as well as an opportunity for people to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage.
One of the main events during National Day in Madrid is the military parade, which takes place in the city centre and features soldiers, horses, and marching bands. This parade is a celebration of Spain’s military history and heritage, and is attended by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Another highlight of the celebrations in Madrid on National Day is the folk dance competition, which features traditional Spanish dances, such as flamenco and salsa. This competition is a celebration of Spain’s rich cultural heritage, and is an opportunity for dancers from all over Spain to come together and showcase their skills.
In addition to these events, there are also exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours that take place during National Day in Madrid. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, as well as to sample traditional Spanish cuisine and drinks.
In conclusion, National Day of Spain in Madrid is a day of national pride and celebration, and a chance for the people of Spain to come together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage. Whether you are looking to attend the military parade, watch the folk dance competition, or explore the city’s rich history and architecture, there is something for everyone during National Day in Madrid.
When: 12th of October 2023
