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Sunday 7 August 2011

Vienna Opera Ball

Vienna Opera Ball
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Month : February
Place : Vienna, Austria
Famous For : Traditional Festival
Attractions : Dress Codes, Horse-drawn Carriages, Walzers.

The Vienna Opera Ball is one of the highlights of the Vienna's carnival season. It's an annual Austrian society event which takes place in the building of the Vienna State Opera. The Vienna Opera Ball event is held on the Thursday preceding Ash Wednesday. There is a proper dress code for this event such that you can wear your best fantasy ball gown and enjoy the romantic atmosphere.

Major Attractions
The Vienna Opera Ball event was started in 1936, in defiance of the Great Depression, in the gloriously ornate 'Staatsoper' building itself. But the actual traces of its origin date back to the 19th century, when the dancers, singers and musicians of the opera house would perform at magnificent society events across the city. During this event, the auditorium of the Vienna State Opera is turned into a large ballroom, almost overnight. On the eve of the event, the rows of seats are removed from the stalls, and a new floor, level with the stage, is built. There is a graceful dress code of evening dress, with white tie and tails for men accompanied by floor-length ball gowns for women. Rich and famous people arrive in fairytale horse-drawn carriages and retire to a box or a table from which the evening"s entertainment can be observed. Skillful, young dancers become a part of the principle 'committee' of 'walzers'.

Festa Junina

Festa Junina Festival, Brazil
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Month : Brazil Winter
Place : Brazil
Famous For : Traditional Festival
Attractions : Dressing up like a farmer, Dancing, Drinking, Fireworks.

Festa Junina is the Brazilian form of the European festival of Saint John. The festival takes on a whole new look and life in Brazil where it's transformed into a kind of mini carnival with a rural theme. The main attractions of this festival in Brazil include dressing up like a farmer, dancing, drinking, firework displaying spectacular of exuberance of Brazil.

Major Attractions
The festival of Festa Junina takes place in the beginning of the Brazilian winter, consequently during the European summer. The feast is mainly celebrated on the eves of the Catholic solemnities of Saint Anthony, Saint John the Baptist, and Saint Peter. The rural themes of rain and harvest have become central to the celebrations, involve dressing up like a farmer - preferably in gingham for the girls and short trousers with braces for the men. Once the outfits are donned the celebrations turn to country style dancing. The celebrations usually take place in a huge tent made of raw material (with a thatched roof) that was reserved for special parties in old rural areas. Men dress up as farm boys with large straw hats and women wear pigtails, freckles, painted gap teeth and red-checkered dresses, all in a loving tribute to the origins of Brazilian country music. Nowadays, Sao Joao festivities are extremely popular in all urban areas and among all social classes. In the Northeast, they are as popular as Carnival. Two northeastern towns in particular have competed with each other for the title of "Biggest Sao Jao Festival in the World", namely Caruaru (in the state of Pernambuco), and Campina Grande,in Para"ba state. In fact, Caruaru features in the Guinness Book of World Records for holding the biggest outdoor country festival.

Boston Festival

Boston Festival
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Month : June
Place : Boston, London
Famous For : Music Festival
Attractions : Folk music, Arts and Crafts fair, Dance performances, Oral traditions sessions, Workshops and Exhibitions

The Boston Folk festival is a two day music festival held in Boston, London. The festival focuses to promote the diversified musical talents of the city in an exquisite atmosphere of country, blues and folk performances. The festival was started in the year 1998 and since then, it has evolved to become one of the city's best-loved music events. The festival is held every year during the month of June at the University of Massachusetts (Umass), Boston.

Major Attractions
Besides a widespread spectrum of musical line ups, the Boston Folk festival also features arts and crafts fair, dance performances, oral traditions sessions, workshops and exhibitions. The cluster of activities also include a children's activities area, alongside a numerous food and crafts vendors. A variety of dishes like hot dogs, burgers, salads, vegetarian burgers, and other eatables are available at the festival venue. There are three premier venues for the festival namely the Field Stage, the Lipke Stage and the Coffeehouse Stage. The Field Stage hosts music from 11AM to 7PM, Lipke Stage from 11:00AM to 5:30PM and finally the the Coffeehouse Stage boosts off a musical gala from 11:00AM to 5:30PM. The children activities comprise of music-related arts and crafts. And is open from noon to 5:00PM at the rear of the Field Stage field. 

Feast of Fools

Feast of Fools
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Month : January
Place : Europe
Famous For : Traditional Competition
Attractions : Youngsters playing roles of a mock pope, archbishop, bishop, or abbot to reign as Lord of Misrule, Dances, Songs

The Feast of Fools is a much awaited festival in several countries of Europe. It's observed every year on New Year's Day on January 1. The festival is celebrated with a central idea to initiate a brief social revolution, in which power, dignity and impunity is briefly conferred on those in a subordinate position. In accordance to this principle, the Feast of fools is considered as a a successor to the Roman Saturnalia.

Major Attractions
The origin of this festival dates back to medieval times which was celebrated by the clergy and laity from the fifth century until the sixteenth century in several countries of Europe. The Feast of Fools is also popular by the name of festum fatuorum, festum stultorum, festum hypodiaconorum, or fete des fous. Main countries in which this festival is observed are Spain, Germany, England, and Scotland, however, the principle celebrations are held in France. During the celebrations in earlier times, young people, who played the chief parts, chose from among their own number a mock pope, archbishop, bishop, or abbot to reign as Lord of Misrule. Participants would then "consecrate" him with many ridiculous ceremonies in the chief church of the place, giving names such as Archbishop of Dolts, Abbot of Unreason, Boy Bishop, or Pope of Fools. The ceremonies often mocked the performance of the highest offices of the church, while other persons, dressed in different kinds of masks and disguises, engaged in songs and dances and practiced all manner of revelry within the church building.

Tulsa Mayfest

Tulsa Mayfest
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Month : May
Place : Tulsa, U.S.A
Famous For : Arts & Music Festival
Attractions : Visual Arts, Dances, Music Competitions, Kids Zone.

Tulsa Mayfest is amongst the most awaited celebrations in United States of America. It's basically an outdoor arts and music festival held every year at Tulsa. The festival aims to solidify the understanding and appreciation of arts and humanities among various artists and art lovers. The most notifying of Tulsa Mayfest is that it's a family-oriented event and has offerings in store for everyone. The next edition of Tulsa Mayfest will be held from May 19 to May 22, 2011.

Major Attractions
The Tulsa Mayfest traces its origin back in the year 1972, when the Junior League of Tulsa were working out a way to celebrate their upcoming 50th Anniversary. They came up with the idea of an arts festival called Jubilee "73 which was a common celebration of City of Tulsa"s 75th Anniversary, the Junior League of Tulsa"s 50th Anniversary, and the Tulsa Philharmonic Society"s 25th Anniversary. In the very next year, It was only in the year 1978, that the festival got its current name of "Mayfest". The celebrations grew manifolds with expansion of visual and performing arts staging areas. Artists and craftsmen to display their works, which were to be judged by an appointed jury. Other attractions of the festival in recent times include The international music competition, multi-disciplined arts from dance, kids zone, music and visual arts. 

Dance Festivals

Dance Festivals
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Shake your booty at world's most popular dance festivals. Explore an exclusive list of internationally awaited dance festivals across the globe. Get detailed information on top dance festivals like theme, dress code, music and attractions. Festivals based on various dance forms like ballet, hip hop, classical, salsa, contemporary, free style, pooping and locking, etc are an ideal way to celebrate and exercise. Popular dance festivals including the likes of Venice Opera Ball and Baisakhi are a lively example of dancing celebrations

Harvest Festivals

Harvest Festivals
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The Harvest festivals are the most eagerly awaited celebrations in rural world. These are the annual celebrations which occur in a given region depending upon the climate and crop at that time. The most common features of harvest festivals is feasting (both family and public) with foods that are drawn from crops that come to maturity around the time of the festival. Other attractions of a harvest festival includes eating, merriment, contests, music and romance. The most renowned harvest festival in the world is Chuseok Harvest Festival of Korea.

Religious Festivals

Religious Festivals
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Experience the divine atmosphere during most widely celebrated festivals of different religions in the world. A religious festival is a time of special importance marked by adherents to that religion. On this day, all the people commemorate the preachings of various saints who have described the path towards salvation, eternal peace and satisfaction. Get detailed information on beliefs and customs performed during popular religious celebrations worldwide like religious festivals of India and Japenese religious festivals. Explore the beliefs and customs performed during celebrations of different religious festivals.

Valentines Day

Valentines Day Celebration
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Month : February
Place : Worldwide
Famous For : Traditional & Love Festival
Attractions : Love Confessions, Greting Cards, Exchange of Gifts, Day of Lovers.

Valentines day or St. Valentines day falls on February 14 every year. This is one of the most awaited days among all occasions that celebrate relationships. Since, this involves one of the most beautiful and intriguing of all human emotions, love. It is because of this fact alone that Valentine's day has mysterious yet alluring undertone to it. There are many things that build up on this fascination that we have with such aspects of love and Valentines day.

Valentines Day is a beautiful occasion that speaks of love and romance. All of us want to do something different and special for our loved ones on this day. These are only some of valentines day gift ideas that are sure to please you and your Valentine. People therefore exchange Valentine's Day greetings with their parents, teachers, siblings, friends, sweethearts or anyone special or close to them. The commonest way of expressing love on Valentine's Day is through exchanging cards, flowers and chocolates.

Valentine's Day History and Legends
Valentines day has evolved from a day that honors Saint Valentine to a day that is relevant for the feelings of love, from the passionate desire and intimacy of romantic love. The romantic festival of Valentine's Day is said to have originated in pagan times in Rome when people celebrated annual fertility festival called Feast of Lupercalia in mid-February. A unique custom of the festival was the mating of young boys and girls for a year through a lottery system. Quite often the couple would fall in love and marry.

During the 3rd century a priest by the name of Valentine, under Claudius II in Rome, secretly disobeyed the law. Claudius had come to believe that a single soldier was a better soldier than a married young man and so decided to outlaw marriage in order to have plenty young strong men with no wives at his disposal. Valentine, the priest, did not obey this law and continued to celebrate the holy bond of marriage for young couples in secrecy. Of course, the way it always works with secret clauses, he was caught and sent to his death. The second legend believes that Valentine was a prisoner who fell in love with a young woman, who came to see him often. It is believed that she was his jailors daughter. Before his untimely death he wrote her a love letter, signed with "Your Valentine". There fore the phrase "Be my Valentine". Some believe he was beheaded, others thought that he died of sickness. No one is even sure if 14 February was the day of his birth or his death or if it had indeed anything to do with Saint Valentine at all. The only thing that is for sure, is that the Romans had a tradition in the middle of February, which would mark the 14th, called the Love Lottery. It was believed that spring and with it the renewal of life came along in the middle of February, therefore the love lottery was held, coupling young men and women for one year, often leading to marriage.

By Middle Ages, Saint Valentine became the patron saint of love and lovers in England and France. In 498 AD, when Pope Gelasius decided to put an end to pagan celebration of Feast of Lupercalia, he declared that 14th February be celebrated as St Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day Celebration
Valentine's Day is the day for celebration of love. Love, a very generic term is relative to any of a number of emotions that speak of affection and attraction. This word can refer to a variety of different feelings, states, and attitudes, ranging from faint pleasure to a feeling of strong interpersonal attachment. Valentine's day is also the day of making fresh promises of love and of keeping true to those promises you made at an earlier date.

Kwanzaa Festival

Kwanzaa Festival
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Month : August
Place : U.S.A
Famous For : Cultural Festival
Attractions : Kinara (Candle holders lit by participants), Celebration of African culture and heritage.

Kwanzaa is one of the most important festivals in United States of America. The mere extent of this festival's vitality is that it drives the image of the Americans on world stage. It's actually a celebration honoring universal African heritage and culture over seven long days. The week long festivity is observed every year from December 26 to January 1. The main attraction of Kwanzaa festival is marked by participants lighting a kinara (candle holder).

Major Attractions
The Kwanzaa festival was started by Ron Karenga and was first celebrated from December 26, 1966 to January 1, 1967. The festival traces its roots in the black nationalist movement of the 1960s. It was started to act as a reuniting medium to help African Americans reconnect with their African cultural and historical heritage. During the early years of Kwanzaa, it was aimed to be an alternative to Christmas. However, after a good passage of time, Kwanzaa gained mainstream popularity and finally in 1997 started the current Kwanzaa. It's termed as "A Celebration of Family, Community, and Culture." Nowadyas, many Christian African Americans celebrate Kwanzaa do so in addition to observing Christmas. Recently, in 2009, Maya Angelou narrated the award-winning documentary - The Black Candle, the first film about Kwanzaa.

Raksha Bandhan

Month : August/September
Place : India
Famous For : Religious & Love Festival
Attractions : Sisters tying Rakhi on Brother's wrist, Exchanfe of Gifts, Sweets, Colorful Rakhis, Traditional Customs.

Rakhi is basically a sacred thread of protection embellished with the love and affection of a sister for her brother. This day is also known as Raksha Bandhan and celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana in India. This frail of thread of Rakhi is considered as stronger than iron chains as it binds the most beautiful relationship in an inseparable bond of love and trust. Rakhi festival also has a social significance because it underlines the notion that everybody should live in harmonious coexistence with each other.

Rakhi Celebrations
In India, Rakhi celebrations are about strengthening the bond of love between brothers and sisters and fostering brotherhood. This festival is not a ritual, custom and tradition that can change over time but style of celebration has become contemporary. Since ages, Raksha Bandhan is being celebrated in the same way. All the traditions are followed with the same enthusiasm. The gaieties have only blown up to a larger scale. Rakhi festival is the celebration of the chaste bond of love amongst the siblings.
Raksha Bandhan
Everyone start preparing for this festival much in advance. About a month before the commencement of raksha bandhan, you can see fancy and colorful rakhis in every market. Ladies start shopping for rakhi and rakhi gifts quite early. They shop for new clothes and beautiful rakhi gifts specially the one that have to be sent to their brothers staying far. Almost every shop, be it sweet shops, garment shops, gift shops, or any other shop, all are flooded with attractive rakhi gifts to attract people.

The celebration of Rakhi, in India, is well known for its carnival spirit and strengthening the bond of love between brothers and sisters. In fact, India is globally known for its colorful festivals and ever-green tradition. Celebrated with different rituals, family get-together and sweets, Raksha Bandhan is about sentiments, love and enjoyment. Like any other festival, rakhi has its unique significance.

On the day of Rakhi festival, the festivity of this auspicious day begin by the day break. After taking bath early morning, people get ready by wearing new clothes and gather for worshiping. After invoking the the blessings of the Gods, the sister performs brother"s arti, puts tika and chawal on his forehead and ties Rakhi amongst chanting of mantras. Sisters whole heartedly give sweets to their brothers to eat which in turns add more sweetness in the Raksha Bandhan celebration and pray for their well being. In return, brothers pamper their sisters and present beautiful gifts to lure them. They also promise to take care of her and stand by her side in any circumstances.

After performing all these rituals, the whole family reunion to enjoy and have fun. Then all of them share the delicious food, tasty sweets, gifts, music and dance. It is a day to remember all the memorable time spent together for those who, for any reason, are far away from their family. Emotions can also be expressed through e-mails, e-cards, rakhi greeting cards and rakhi through Internet. The overflowing emotions of siblings cannot be stopped on this day.

Rabindra Nath Tagore started gathering of people like 'Rakhi Mahotsavas' in Shantiniketan to propogate the feeling of brotherhood among people. He believed that the this will invoke trust and feeling of peaceful coexistence. Raksha Bandhan, for them, is a way to harmonize the relationship of humanity. The tradition continues as people started tying rakhis to the neighbor and friends.

Bhai Dooj

Bhai Dooj
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Month : October/November
Place : India
Famous For : Religious Festival
Attractions : Tilak on Brother's Forehead, Exchange of Gifts, Puja.

Bhai Dooj festival celebrates the eternal bonding between brother & sisters. It's one of the major festival of India celebrated between brothers and sisters to strengthen the bond of love they share. The main rites & rituals performed during this festival include sisters putting 'tilak' on their brother's forehead and praying for their long life. In return, brothers pamper their sisters, facilitate them with gifts and promise to stand by their side in all hardships of life.

Bhai-Dooj is celebrated every year, two days after the festival of Diwali in 'Kartik' month. This Hindu festival celebrates the love and affection between a brother and a sister. 'Bhai' means brother and 'Dooj' means two days after new moon. This unique festivity is one of the most awaited festivals in India.

How to celebrate Bhai Dooj
The festival of Bhai Dooj is known to be based on mythological concept. The celebrations of Bhai dooj reflects the importance of unique cultural traditions that vary with different region of India. This helps to keep the family close and brings prosperity, well being and luck. Bhai Dooj falls on the two day after Diwali and is celebrated all over the country.

All the rituals and pooja held on Bhai Dooj is carried out in the general puja room or on the same platform that was decorated for Diwali pooja. Sisters decorate their puja thali with mithai, batashas, roli and rice along with the coconut. They light up the puja lamp and perform all the rituals. Once the pooja is performed by every members of the family, the sister applies tika on the forehead of the brother. After applying tikka, she gives him a few of the eatables along with the coconut.

Those married women who stay close to their parent's place visit their brother early in the morning and greet them. Those staying far off either take out few days to visit her brother or express their love and blessings through posting greeting cards or e-cards and sending their good wishes. After all the rituals of Bhai Dooj is performed, brothers pamper their sisters by presenting the most memorable gifts. Most commonly, the girl of the house is given presents of clothes, utensils, and lots of mithai and fruits at festivals. 

Mother's Day

Month : May
Place : World Wide
Famous For : Traditional & Love Festival
Attractions : Gifts for Mothers, Greeting Cards, Enjoyment with Mothers.

Mother is undoubtedly the most precious gift of god. Her ambivalent presence in our life can't be substituted by anyone. Mother's Day is a grand opportunity to honor the spirit of motherhood. It's time to tell your mother that she will always be important to you throughout your life and you will continue to love her for ever. Mother's Day is celebrated to honor all mothers and express gratitude for the hardships they bear in bringing up a child. Most countries including US, Australia, Canada and India celebrate Mothers Day on the second Sunday of May. Mothers Day came into being due to the efforts made by Ms Julia Ward Howe and Ms Anna Jarvis. The Resolution for having a dedicated Mother's Day was signed by US President Woodrow Wilson on May 8, 1914. Since then people across the world have been celebrating Mothers Day with joy and devotion.

Mother's Day History
All across the world, more than 46 countries honor mothers with a special day, but not all nations celebrate on the same day. We honor mothers with cards, candy, flowers and dinner out. Mother"s day was first suggested in the United States by Julia Ward Howe, writer of the Battle Hymn of the Republic. She suggested that this day be dedicated to peace. Miss Howe organized Mother"s Day meetings in Boston every year.

Mother's Day Celebrations
A very special day is reserved every year to show deep feelings of love, care and respect for ones Mother, termed as the Mother's Day, it will be celebrated with fanfare on the 10th of May. Although there are some countries where this day is celebrated on different dates. No single day has been kept for universal celebrations. It would've been a great idea if one single day could have been identified to earmark this special relationship.

How is Mothers Day Celebrated ?
The best way to make this day special for your mother is to shower her with lot and lots of love and affection for what she is waiting for since you grew. The backbone of Mother's Day is the strong bonding shared by a Mother and her child. This day can be made special for her if a careful thought is given in putting together a bouquet of wonderful surprises that you can deliver to your mother. This could include small things like having a nostalgic conversation with her, treating her to self-cooked food, taking her out for shopping, showering her with gifts, thanking her for all she has done for you, re-assuring her of your love and support throughout the rest of her life.

Cakes, cookies and pies are the favourite dishes prepared on the occasion of Mothers Day. Some consider having dinner at home with the family as an ideal way of celebrating Mothers Day, many on the other hand prefer to dine out. Hence, restaurants are seeing more business then ever on the occasion of Mothers Day.

Since Mothers Day is observed as a holiday in lot of countries many like to take the opportunity to go out for family picnics and have fun. In several schools, celebrations of Mothers Day are organised wherein children present skits, songs and plays to honor mothers.
Mother's Day

Father's Day

Month : June
Place : World Wide
Famous For : Traditional Festival
Attractions : Gifts for Fathers, Greeting Cards, Enjoyment with Fathers.

Father's day celebrate the eternal presence of the most precious person in our life " Father. It's an occasion to express your love & respect for the sacrifices your father has made for you. With a list of what Dad likes, schedule Father's Day festivity as a surprise. Give everyone in the family a chance to spend time with Dad, and show Dad how much you appreciate him on this special day.

Father's Day is celebrated on variety of dates across the world. Previously this festival was confined to pay gratitude to father only, but nowadays, people also with "Happy Father's Day to their stepfather, grandfather, father-in-law, uncles or any other man who is as protective and caring as a father. involves gift giving and special dinners to fathers and family oriented activities.

The idea of Father's day celebration was first given in 1909 by Ms Sonora Louise Smart Dodd, a loving daughter from Spokane USA. Sonora, who was very much attached to her father Mr William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran. She felt that if there is a day to honor mother then there should also be a day to honor father. Sonora struggled relentlessly to make the idea a reality. Finally, in 1972, President Richard Nixon made Father's Day a national observance. Today, Father's Day is celebrated in several countries across the globe. Though the date and manner of celebration differ, every where people take opportunity of the day to honor their father and express love for them.

How is Father's Day Celebrated ? 
For the best Father's Day experience, the whole family together and start planning early. Make any necessary appointments ahead of time, especially if you are considering taking Dad on a trip or to a restaurant, and ask other family members to clear their calendars so they can devote as much time as possible to Dad. If someone can't make it or the travel distance is too great, check in with that person to make sure they will call or send a message that can be read during the Father's Day activities.

Generally, children present a bouquet of fresh flowers, a greeting card, a gift hamper, etc to their father. This can be made better by accompanying with his favorite breakfast, lunch or dinner. After such a beautiful start of the day, children usually spend a full day with dad by
Father's Day going out for a picnic or for a treat in a restaurant. Some people also like to throw a great party on Father's Day and invite friends and relatives on this auspicious day.

Those who stay at home with their father try to assist them by completing pending works. To many children, this is the most special way of expressing affection for dad on Father's Day and to let him know how that everything he does for the family is appreciated from the core of the heart.

Bonding Relation Festivals

Bonding Relation Festivals
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Experience the warmth of emotions on various love bonding festivals celebrated all over the world. Celebrate the divine relationships between parents, children, spouse, siblings and others on special days observed for these purposes only. Experience the widespread sense of affection and togetherness on these touching festivals celebrating love.

Key West Fantasy Fest

Key West Fantasy Fest
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Month : October
Place : Key West (Miami), U.S.A
Famous For : Fetish Carnival
Attractions : Fetish Party, Headress Ball, Danceapalooza, Celebrity look-a-like competition, Wet T-Shirt Competition, Toga parties.

The Fantasy Fest is a much awaited festivity in U.S.A. It's usually held every year during the third week in October month at Key West (Miami), Florida U.S.A. The Key West Fantasy Fest is a ten day long event. It involves various highlighted events like parties, parades and other exciting events providing it a grand stature.

Major Attractions
The Fetish Fest came into existence when on Halloween day 1978, Joe Lisky notice that no-one was on the streets of Key West. The town was deserted. He felt a carnaval would boost the local economy and the rest is a history of fetish, sexuality and good times. The top attractions of Key West Fantasy Fest includes a good Dungeons & Dragons fetish party, the annual Headress Ball, Danceapalooza, celebrity look-a-like competition, wet t-shirt competition and toga parties. Besides this, there are lots of pool parties, rooftop parties as well as drive-by pick-up truck parties & ask around everyone's welcoming and open. Another not to be missed event is the Masquerade March through the streets on the second Friday and the Captain Morgan's street parade on the second Saturday of the parade. Over 80,000 people participate in this walking fetish party and anything goes.

Love Parade

Love Parade Germany
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Month : August
Place : Berlin, Germany
Famous For : Traditional Festival
Attractions : Golden Angel, Gay & Lesbian Parades.

The Love Parade is a popular festival parade that originated in 1989 at Berlin, Germany. It was held in Germany annually between 1989 and 2003, and then from 2006 to 2008. The 2004 and 2005 editions in Berlin and the 2009 edition in Bochum were canceled. The Love Parade traces its origin back in 1989 in the spirit of a changing Europe. There are some political overtones to the whole affair but basically, Love Parade is about music and carefree Euro-fun. The festival is a rave of epic proportions. Fans of techno, trance and house music turn the streets into a massive dance party that is at times bawdy and slightly orgiastic.

Major Attractions
Love Parade was first celebrated four months before the demolition of the Berlin Wall. Initiated by Matthias Roeingh aka "Dr Motte" and his then girlfriend Danielle de Picciotto, it was held as a political demonstration for peace and international understanding through love and Music. Until 1996, the famous Berlin "Kurfrstendamm" was the venue for this parade. After 1996, Kurfrstendamm was overcrowded which shifted the parade to "Strabe des 17. Juni" which is near the Tiergarten Park in the center of Berlin. Siegessule, in the middle of the park forms the center of the parade. The golden angel on top of the column has become a symbol of the parade.

Gay/Lesbian Festivals

Gay/Lesbian FestivalsThe Gay and Lesbian festivals are a showcase of advanced and developed world. These celebrations speak out the fact of fundamental rights being accepted for everywhere and for everyone. Gay/Lesbian festivals are popular observances for homosexual people who love to make out with same sex. The most famous Gay/Lebian festivals re Love Parade, Key West Fantasy Fest etc. The main highlights of this festivals are parties, street parades, film shows, prides, fashion shows, dance and drinks

Balloon Festivals

Balloon Festivals
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The balloon festivals are one of the most watchable celebrations where hundreds of hot air balloons rise up in the air competing for victory. These are actually competitive events held in different parts of the world, which involve a series of ballooning events with balloons in different shapes. Most popular of all is the Saga international balloon festival of Japan and Canberra Balloon Fiesta in Australia. Besides this, the balloon festivals also involve other attractions like car shows, live entertainment, fireworks, food and drinks etc.

Boryeong Mud Festival

Balloon Festivals
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Month : July
Place : Boryeong, South Korea
Famous For : Mud Festival
Attractions : Mud Games, Visit to Coal Mine & a Buddhist Shrine.

The Boryeong Mud Festival is a popular and much awaited festival in South Korea. It's held every year during the summer season in Boryeong, South Korea. The festival has evolved as a major attraction for tourists and eventually the best event in South Korea. The Boryeong Mud Festival takes place usually in the month of July. It's undoubtedly the most precious experience South Korea can offer.

Major Attractions
In Boryeong Mud Festival, the mud is dug up near Boryeong, trucked to the Daecheon beach area, and dumped at a 'Mud Experience Land'. The mud is considered rich in minerals and used to manufacture cosmetics. Some of the final weekend participants are foreign tourists, and especially American Soldiers, but most of the participants during the week are Koreans, attracted by clever marketing by the town. The town fathers and mothers discovered that the mud is more lucrative as a tourist attraction than using the muddy fields for agriculture. The economy generated from the festival supports the many hotels and restaurants along the waterway and several blocks inland. There is also a great deal to see and do in the vicinity and a free tourist bus takes visitors to local sites, including an impressive coal mine and a famous Buddhist shrine.

Bastille Day

Bastille Day
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Month : July
Place : France
Famous For : Traditional Festival (National Festival)
Attractions : Parades featuring troops from France and allied countries, Interview of President, Garden Party.

Bastille Day is one of the most important events in France. It's actually the French national holiday, which is celebrated every year on 14 July. Popularly called by the name of le quatorze juillet (the fourteenth of July), the Bastille Day's formal name in France is La Fete Nationale (The National Celebration). The celebrations kick off on the morning of 14 July itself in the presence of President of the Republic at the Champs-Elysees avenue in Paris.

Major Attractions
The Bastille Day festival traces its origin way back in the year 1789 when the republic of France was on a rising. In 1789, a severe storming of the Bastille fortress-prison took place, which was seen as a symbol of the uprising of the modern nation. In the next year (1790), a festival called Fete de la Federation was observed to mark one year anniversary of the incident. Since then, Bastille Day is celebrated every year to commemorates the 1790 Fete de la Federation. The celebrations start with a parade featuring cadets from the Ecole Polytechnique, Saint-Cyr, École Navale etc., other infantry troops and then motorized troops. Alongside the marching troops, aviation of the Patrouille de France flies above the parade ground. Nowadays, units from France's allies countries are also invited to the parade. The parade is followed by an interview of the president with members of the press, discussing the situation of the country, recent events and projects for the future. But current president of France abolished the practice. After the interview, the President also holds a garden party at the Palais de IElysee.

Public Holidays United States

Public Holidays:
 20112012
New Year’s Day1 Jan2 Jan
Martin Luther King Day17 Jan16 Jan
President’s Day21 Feb20 Feb
Memorial Day30 May28 May
Independence Day4 Jul4 Jul
Labour Day5 Sep3 Sep
Columbus Day10 Oct8 Oct
Veterans Day11 Nov12 Nov
Thanksgiving Day24 Nov22 Nov
Christmas Day25 Dec25 Dec

SLUG Queen Festival

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The quirky city of Eugene, Oregon annually plays host to an utterly bizarre beauty pageant, known as the SLUG Queen Festival. Taking its name from an acronym (the Society for the Legitimisation of the Ubiquitous Gastropod) - purportedly developed in honour of the slimy creatures that fill Eugene's perennially-sodden gardens - the festival started as an anti-pageant of sorts, designed to mock the usual way in which beauty competitions are run. This anarchic, playful spirit has imbued every SLUG Queen Festival since, and visitors can look forward to joining a crowd of thousands to watch the costumed procession, and the hilarious talent-show that ensues. Unsurprisingly, the competition has evolved into a unisex affair, and the judge's official edict to contestants - 'bribe early, bribe often' - is probably the only thing taken seriously at the whole competition. Rounding out the irreverent atmosphere, are slug-themed food stalls and a dedicated children's area, with plenty of fun activities. Past winners of the pageant include Marie Slugtoinette and Slugretha Franklin.
Venue: Eugene, Oregon
Date: 25 - 28 August 2011

Kentucky Derby

Kentucky Derby
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Known as the 'Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports', the Kentucky Derby is the highlight of the American horse racing calendar and the first leg of the famous Triple Crown (the other races being the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes). It is one of the oldest races in the US, and is held every year at Churchill Downs in Louisville. Visitors to the Derby will be able to enjoy traditions like mint juleps, large hats, and gawking at the famous faces in Millionaire's Row. Advance tickets are available from the Churchill Downs website, as the event always sells out.
Venue: Churchill Downs
Date: 7 May 2011

Summer X-Games

Slam City
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$1,000,000 in prize money is up for grabs for those death-denying stunt devils that enthral spectators annually in displays of gravity-defying manoeuvres. The competitors attend in their specialisations of skateboarding, Moto X, BMX, and climbing to set new records of madness, in this, the world's number one experience for alternative sports. Spectators from all over the globe come to watch this ESPN covered event which is showing no signs of slowing down.
Venue: Staples Center and Home Depot Center
Date: 28 - 31 July 2011

Iditarod

Only 1,150 miles to go
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Arguably Alaska's most popular event on the calendar, the Iditarod is a dog sled race from the city of Anchorage to the remote town of Nome, over 1,000 miles (1,609km) of dangerous, dramatic terrain and some of the most severe weather conditions on the planet. Touted by locals as the last great race left on Earth, the event sees over one hundred participants from around the globe partake in this annual endurance test that lasts anywhere between eight and 15 days. Participants will be subjected to temperatures of -100°F (-75°C), white-outs, and blizzards, although the experience of racing snow dogs on the the back of a sled through gorgeous mountain scenery, frozen lakes and dense forests under the guidance of the Northern Lights makes this an experience unlike anything else.
Date: March 2012 TBA
Time: 10am

Winter X Games

Hitting the pipe
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There is little is that is not absolutely exhilarating about Winter's greatest extreme sports extravaganza. Competitors from all around the world participate in a variety of death-defying events that wow the tens of thousands of gawking spectators each year. The X Games are one of the highlights of the winter season in Colorado and it is simply amazing to witness the limits being pushed in snowboarding, skiing and snow-mobiling, which for most amateurs is simply a bit of fun.
Venue: Aspen Snowmass
Date: 27 - 30 January 2011

Sundance Film Festival

Sundance Film Festival
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The Sundance Film Festival is one of the most prestigious independent film festivals in the world. Many major contemporary filmmakers, such as Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh and the Coen Brothers, all made names for themselves at Sundance. The wintry wonderland of Park City buzzes with film buffs and film buyers over the 10 days as deals are made, prizes are awarded, hearts are broken and legends are created. The festival was started by screen icon Robert Redford in 1981, and supposedly named after his character from the film 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.'
Venue: Park City
Date: 20 - 30 January 2011

Burning Man

The Burning Man
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The Festival of the Burning Man is one of the most unique festivals. Drawing crowds of over 20,000 each year from all over the world, the celebration is of art, creativity and humanity. Unlike most other festivals in the world, this one has no commerce; no shops, no rock stars, no rollercoasters. It is simply a gathering, albeit a very large one. The Black Rock Desert, two or three hours north of Reno is the setting. The serenity of the place allows festival goers the environment to feel uninhibited and expressive. The emphasis is on community and people helping one another and all who attend do so in friendship. And on the last day, the bonfire of the Burning Man takes place setting the skies alight in fire while the community dances around. Due to the non-commercial nature of the festival, those attending are advised to bring everything they might need for themselves with them, as little or nothing will be available. The art theme for 2010 is 'Metropolis'.
Venue: Black Rock Desert
Date: 29 August to 5 September 2011

The US Masters

2005 winner Tiger Woods
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The US Masters Tournament (referred to simply as The Masters) is one of golf's four major championships. Unlike the other three 'majors,' the Open, The US Open and the PGA Championship, this tournament is held at the same venue each year, the Augusta National Golf Club. The Masters was begun in 1934 by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts, two amateur golfers who wanted to provide a service to the sport by creating the Augusta National Invitation Tournament. It was only in 1939 that the tournament became referred to as The Masters Tournament. Augusta National Golf Cub is equidistant from Atlanta and Savannah.
Venue: Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta
Date: 4-10 April, 2011

Academy Awards

The Academy Awards
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The annual presentation of the Oscars is the biggest movie-related event in the world that recognises excellence in the film industry among producers, actors, directors, technicians and writers. Every year the world's attention is on the entertainment community to see who will receive the celebrated gold statuettes representative of the highest honour in filmmaking.
Venue: Kodak Theatre, Hollywood
Date: 26 February 2012

Seafair

Seafair
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Seafair is one of the biggest community festivals in the country, a summer tradition that is rated as one of the top events in North America. Major events include the famous US Navy Blue Angels air show, Hydroplane Races, the Torchlight Run and Parade, and the traditional Milk Carton Derby in which families take to the water in homemade milk carton boats and rafts. There is also plenty of live music, art and cultural attractions, and demonstrations throughout the city, as well as half marathons and triathlons to participate in. Seafair has been an annual event in Seattle since 1950.
Venue: Various
Date: 25 June to 7 August 2011

Memphis in May

Beale Street Music Festival
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May is the month with the most celebrations in Memphis, when the city celebrates with a clutch of festivals designed not only to highlight the indigenous charms of Tennessee but also as a cultural exchange exercise, honouring a different 'guest' country each year. Kicking off the merry month is the Beale Street Music Festival, billed as 'one outrageous party' taking place over three days, with four stages on 13 hectares (33 acres) alongside the mighty Mississippi. This is followed up by the Desti-Nations International Festival featuring activities, displays and cultural exhibitions relating to the chosen guest country. The other two main events of Memphis in May are the World Championship Barbecue Contest and the Great Southern Food Festival combined with the Sunset Symphony concert on the riverbank. For more information, call (901) 525 4611.
Venue: Various
Date: Various events annually in May

Miami Carnival

Miami Carnival in full swing
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Having become a well-entrenched tradition over the past 20-odd years, the Miami Carnival is a cultural festival with a Caribbean-Latin flavour, providing a day of family fun and frolics that attracts about 50,000 people. Focus of the carnival is a colourful parade featuring steel bands, performers and dancers in flamboyant costumes, live bands and huge decorated floats. Spectators can enjoy food stalls and all sorts of allied outdoor festivities.
Venue: Bicentennial Park, Downtown Miami
Date: 7-10 October, 2011
Time: 12pm to 11pm

US Open Tennis Tournament

US Open
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The top names and seeds vie for victory in the final Grand Slam event of the season in New York each year. Singles, doubles, men's and ladies, and mixed doubles make up the five separate tournaments within the championship. Held annually at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, the event dates back to 1881 when it was played in the State of Rhode Island as a men's singles event only and it was not until 1968 that The US Open took the shape and structure that it has today.
Venue: Arthur Ashe Stadium, Flushing Meadows
Date: 29 August to 11 September 2011

St Patrick’s Day

St Patrick's DayBoston boasts a long-standing Irish culture with Irish pubs a-plenty, and St Patrick's Day is a significant event in the city, featuring one of the biggest parties in America. It was here that the first St Patrick's Day was celebrated in 1737, and today green-clad families gather to enjoy the high-spirited celebrations. Featuring marching bands, pipe bands, and plenty of traditional costumes, the event takes place the day after St. Patrick's Day.
Venue: South Boston
Date: 17 March 2011
Time: 1pm

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras float
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Despite the devastating hurricane season in 2005, New Orleans is once again hosting the world-renowned annual Mardi Gras, a carnival that was first celebrated in its present form in 1856 and has earned a reputation for being the most scandalous and sensational annual event on the world's festival calendar. The origins of the carnival can be traced back to Roman times, but the date is based on the Christian calendar. Traditionally Mardi Gras day falls on 'Fat Tuesday', the day before Ash Wednesday, usually occurring during late February or early March each year. The history and traditions of the New Orleans Mardi Gras are confusing and complicated, but what it all means to revelling visitors is a series of ever-more exciting spectacular street parades through the French Quarter starting about 10 days before Fat Tuesday, building up to the big day. The whole affair turns into a major street party, with traditional strings of beads being exchanged in return for favours.
Venue: Throughout the city, especially Bourbon Street
Date: 21 February 2012

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