Whilst Spain is world-renowned for its vibrant fiestas, the United Kingdom and Ireland also offer an extraordinary variety of festivals that reflect the rich cultural heritage, artistic expression and communal life of their nations. Exploring the festivals of other countries can offer fascinating comparisons and understanding the unique celebrations of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland can deepen our appreciation of Spain’s own traditions. From ancient fire festivals in the Scottish islands to raucous cheese-chasing in the English countryside, music gatherings in the Welsh hills and age-old rituals in rural Ireland, these festivals reveal a different but equally spirited approach to celebration.
This is one of five articles exploring Festivals in Europe:
1. Festivals in Europe: Overview
2. Festivals in the UK and Ireland (this article)
3. Festivals in France
4. Festivals in Germany
5. Festivals in Italy
Across the British Isles, the calendar is filled with events that range from the eccentric and deeply rooted in local tradition to some of the world’s most spectacular cultural showcases. In England, you’ll find everything from world-class music festivals and historic flower shows to peculiar rural customs involving flaming barrels or rolling wheels of cheese. Scotland, with its dramatic landscapes and festival-rich cities, is renowned for Hogmanay, Highland Games and the globally admired Edinburgh festivals. Wales offers a proud calendar of cultural celebrations, including its National Eisteddfod, folk music festivals and community gatherings rooted in ancient Celtic customs. Ireland, too, is home to a vibrant and distinctive festival tradition, from the exuberant global celebrations of St Patrick’s Day to local events such as the Fleadh Cheoil, the Galway Races and the centuries-old Puck Fair.
Whether you are drawn to classical music, contemporary theatre, motorsport, poetry, or traditional athletic feats, the festivals of the United Kingdom and Ireland provide an inspiring lens through which to explore their diverse cultural life.
Festivals in the UK: England
Festivals in England span an extraordinary spectrum – from quaint village fêtes with jam-making contests and flower displays to vast music gatherings that attract hundreds of thousands. Whilst events like Glastonbury and Notting Hill Carnival are internationally celebrated, England’s cultural landscape also includes a wealth of smaller, eccentric festivals that showcase its quirky charm – from flaming tar barrels to cheese-rolling races.
Throughout the summer, music festivals dominate the calendar, taking place in countryside fields, stately home estates and even racetracks, often catering to families and diverse audiences. Alongside these, prestigious arts festivals, flower shows and flamboyant sporting occasions such as Royal Ascot, Wimbledon and the Grand National contribute to a rich tradition of celebration.
Whether you’re drawn to world-class music, traditional customs, or uniquely English oddities, the country offers festivals to suit every taste and interest. Here are some of the best-known events:
Cultural Festivals in England
England’s cultural calendar is a vibrant showcase of heritage, performance, ritual and community celebration. Some events are centuries old, whilst others reflect modern multicultural Britain. These festivals are excellent opportunities to experience English traditions, local creativity and the eccentricities that give English culture its distinctive charm.
Notting Hill Carnival – A Celebration of Caribbean Culture
Held each August Bank Holiday in the heart of West London, Notting Hill Carnival is Europe’s largest street festival. Originally started in the 1960s by Caribbean immigrants, it now attracts over two million visitors annually. The two-day extravaganza features dazzling costumes, live steel bands, sound systems, calypso and soca music and an abundance of jerk chicken and Caribbean rum. More than just a party, the carnival stands as a celebration of diversity, resilience and community spirit.
Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels – Fiery Devon Tradition
One of England’s most extraordinary events takes place in the small Devon town of Ottery St Mary on 5th November. Unlike the usual Bonfire Night fireworks, here locals carry flaming barrels of tar through the narrow streets on their shoulders. This centuries-old ritual is believed to ward off evil spirits and celebrate Guy Fawkes Night with theatrical intensity. It’s dangerous, chaotic and utterly unique – a prime example of rural English tradition at its wildest.
Stonehenge Summer Solstice – A Spiritual Gathering
Each June, thousands gather at Stonehenge to mark the Summer Solstice. As the sun rises directly over the Heel Stone, druids, pagans and spiritual seekers join tourists and curious onlookers in celebrating the longest day of the year. It’s a peaceful, mystical event that connects ancient ritual with modern expressions of nature worship and alternative spirituality.
Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling – Gloucestershire’s Bizarre Contest
Every spring, hundreds gather on a steep Gloucestershire hillside to witness a truly bizarre spectacle. Participants chase a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down an almost vertical slope, often tumbling spectacularly. Injuries are common, but so is laughter. Despite official attempts to discourage the event due to safety concerns, it remains a beloved tradition and a testament to English eccentricity.
Chelsea Flower Show – The Pinnacle of Horticultural Art
Hosted in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea every May, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the most prestigious event in the gardening calendar. Landscape designers, horticulturalists and plant nurseries showcase visionary garden concepts and rare botanical specimens. It’s a refined affair frequented by royals, celebrities and green-fingered enthusiasts, reflecting the English love of gardens and design innovation.
Bath Festival – Art and Literature in a Georgian City
Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage city, provides a fitting backdrop for this multi-arts festival held each May. The Bath Festival offers an eclectic programme including classical and contemporary music, literature, spoken word and debates. It’s a celebration of creativity and conversation, drawing internationally renowned performers and authors to this elegant city.
Bognor Birdman – Flight, Fantasy and Failure
In the seaside town of Bognor Regis, brave (or foolish) participants launch themselves from the pier in homemade flying machines. The aim is to “fly” the furthest distance before crashing into the sea. What began as a quirky competition in the 1970s has become a humorous annual event that combines engineering enthusiasm with absurd comedy.
London’s Chinese New Year – Welcoming the Lunar Year
Chinatown, Trafalgar Square and the West End light up each January or February with dragon dances, firecrackers and lanterns to celebrate Chinese New Year. The event features martial arts displays, traditional music and street food stalls, attracting families and culture lovers in one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside Asia.
Music Festivals in England
England is a global capital for music and its festivals span every genre from folk to electronic, jazz to indie rock. Whether in rolling countryside or urban parks, these festivals draw devoted fans and top international acts alike.
Glastonbury – The Icon of British Festivals
Held on Worthy Farm in Somerset, Glastonbury is the largest and arguably most famous music festival in the world. First staged in 1970, it now features hundreds of acts across multiple stages, blending music, politics, theatre, art and environmental activism. Past headliners include David Bowie, Beyoncé, Radiohead and Paul McCartney. The mud, the wellies, the massive crowds – Glastonbury is a rite of passage for music fans.
Leeds Festival – Rock and Alternative for the Masses
Running alongside its twin event in Reading, Leeds Festival takes place each August at Bramham Park. It’s a high-energy celebration of rock, punk, indie and hip-hop, drawing young crowds and top-tier performers. Over the years, bands such as Arctic Monkeys, Foo Fighters and The 1975 have graced the stage. The atmosphere is loud, youthful and raucous.
Latitude Festival – Culture in the Suffolk Countryside
Set in the picturesque Henham Park, Latitude is as much about theatre, comedy, poetry and literature as it is about music. Its family-friendly atmosphere, lake-side setting and pastel-coloured sheep create a relaxed vibe. It appeals to a slightly older audience looking for an intelligent mix of culture and entertainment under the open skies.
Cambridge Folk Festival – Celebrating Acoustic Tradition
First held in 1965, this festival has become one of the most respected folk music events in the world. Set in leafy Cherry Hinton Hall, it showcases a wide spectrum of folk – from traditional English ballads to Americana and global roots music. With workshops, storytelling and spontaneous sessions, the spirit is one of communal celebration and musical heritage.
WOMAD – World Music and Dance
Founded by Peter Gabriel in 1982, WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) brings together international artists from every continent. Now held in Charlton Park, Wiltshire, the festival is a vibrant, inclusive space where global sounds meet gourmet cuisine, dance, crafts and children’s activities. It champions cultural diversity and musical exploration in a welcoming environment.
Cheltenham Jazz Festival – Swing, Soul and Beyond
Taking place every May, the Cheltenham Jazz Festival hosts world-class performers alongside up-and-coming talent. Set across stylish venues and atmospheric tents, the festival embraces all forms of jazz, including blues, soul and crossover acts. Cheltenham becomes a buzzing hub of creative energy during the festival weekend, drawing fans from across the UK and beyond.
Bath International Music Festival – Classical Meets Contemporary
Although now merged into the broader Bath Festival, this event’s music strand continues to feature a high-quality programme of classical, chamber and experimental music. Performances are often held in historical venues such as Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, creating a captivating fusion of sound and setting.
Sporting Events in England
From world-famous horse races to elite tennis tournaments and quirky local competitions, England’s sporting events often carry the feel of a festival. These gatherings attract both dedicated fans and casual spectators looking for excitement, pageantry and the chance to be part of a national pastime.
British Formula 1 Grand Prix – Speed and Spectacle at Silverstone
Held at Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire, the British Grand Prix is a cornerstone of the Formula 1 calendar. Since its first race in 1950, it has become an unmissable event for motorsport fans, offering high-speed drama, technical mastery and the roar of international crowds. It’s more than a race – it’s a weekend-long festival of adrenaline and engineering excellence.
Wimbledon – A Grand Slam of Tradition
The oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, Wimbledon is a quintessentially British event. Taking place over two weeks in late June and early July, it’s known for its strict dress codes, strawberries and cream and royal patronage. Fans queue for hours to watch stars battle on the grass courts, whilst the atmosphere outside is equally festive, with screens, picnics and flowing Pimm’s.
Royal Ascot – Fashion and Horse Racing Elegance
Founded by Queen Anne in 1711, Royal Ascot combines elite horse racing with fashion and social prestige. The event, held in June, is attended by members of the Royal Family and watched by millions worldwide. With a strict dress code and a daily royal procession, it is as much about spectacle and tradition as it is about the races.
Grand National – A National Obsession
Held at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool, the Grand National is perhaps the most famous steeplechase in the world. First run in 1839, this four-mile race features dramatic fences such as Becher’s Brook and The Chair. It captures the nation’s imagination each April, as millions place bets on their favourites and watch the drama unfold on television or from the stands.
Cheltenham Festival – Jumps Racing at its Finest
Each March, Cheltenham Racecourse hosts four days of exhilarating jump racing. The Cheltenham Festival is a highlight of the National Hunt calendar, culminating in the prestigious Gold Cup. Irish and British racegoers descend in their thousands, filling the town with music, laughter and Guinness. It’s a cultural as well as sporting highlight.
Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race – Tradition on the Thames
This rowing race between Oxford and Cambridge Universities has taken place since 1829. Held annually on the River Thames in London, it pits elite student athletes against each other in a gruelling test of strength and stamina. Tens of thousands gather along the banks, turning the event into a springtime celebration of rivalry and resilience.
London Marathon – A Capital Challenge
Since its founding in 1981, the London Marathon has grown into one of the world’s great running events. Elite athletes and amateur charity runners alike pound the 26.2-mile route through the capital each April. The race’s carnival atmosphere, cheering crowds and fancy-dress fundraisers make it one of the most uplifting days in London’s sporting calendar.
Festivals in the UK: Scotland
Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Scotland to experience the country’s extraordinary festivals – celebrations that reflect a proud heritage, a love of spectacle and a deep sense of community. From raucous Hogmanay street parties to ancient athletic contests in the Highlands and internationally acclaimed arts festivals in Edinburgh, Scotland offers a festival calendar as rich and dramatic as its landscape.
With its rugged coastlines, soaring mountains and two of Europe’s most vibrant cities in Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scotland provides a remarkable setting for both grand cultural events and intimate local traditions. Whether in the bustling city streets or tucked away in remote rural communities, Scottish festivals have an unmistakable character – by turns solemn, joyful, competitive and wildly exuberant.
The year begins with a bang, quite literally, as Hogmanay lights up the nation with fireworks, music and high-spirited revelry. Just weeks later, Burns Night sees Scots everywhere raise a dram to the national bard, while the Viking-inspired Up Helly Aa in Shetland provides a fiery midwinter spectacle like no other. By spring and summer, traditional Highland Games dominate the cultural calendar, showcasing feats of strength and endurance alongside stirring bagpipe music and traditional dancing.
Perhaps no city embodies the Scottish festival spirit more fully than Edinburgh. Its August festival season is world-famous, comprising the Edinburgh Festival, the Fringe and the awe-inspiring Military Tattoo. The capital also hosts film, science, jazz and storytelling festivals throughout the year, reinforcing its status as one of the most exciting cultural destinations in Europe.
From ancient rituals to contemporary performance and from intimate island gatherings to large-scale international events, Scotland’s festivals offer something for everyone. They are a true celebration of the country’s diversity, creativity and enduring traditions. Some of the most visited festivals in Scotland include:
Hogmanay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is one of the world’s grandest New Year celebrations, drawing visitors for a four-day extravaganza of torchlit parades, concerts, ceilidhs and fireworks under the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Beginning on 29 December with the Torchlight Procession – and continuing through a spectacular Street Party and Concert in the Gardens – Hogmanay symbolises Scotland’s community spirit and festive flair. On New Year’s Day, participants gather at South Queensferry to take part in the Loony Dook: a costumed plunge into the icy Firth of Forth to raise money for charity. The origins of Hogmanay as Scotland’s principal winter festival date back to the discontinuation of Christmas celebrations in the 17th century, making it a vibrant alternative tradition .
The Highland Games
Celebrating Scotland’s martial and cultural heritage, the Highland Games are held across the country – most famously the Braemar Gathering and the Cowal Highland Gathering. These events blend feats of strength, such as the caber toss and hammer throw, with Highland dancing, bagpipe contests, clan displays and local fare. Dating to medieval times and patronised by folk and royalty alike, the Games offer a festival atmosphere shaped by athletic competition, regional pride, music and dance.
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle’s Esplanade every evening in August, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo brings together military bands, dancers, precision drill teams and global cultural performers. Marked by stunning light shows and fireworks, the Tattoo draws over 220,000 live attendees annually and millions more via broadcast. Each year’s performance is theme-based – past titles have included Kaleidoscope and East meets West – and often features a haunting solo by the Lone Piper echoing against the ancient stones. It is both a cultural showcase and a moving tribute to musical tradition.
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world – a thirty‑day open-access explosion of comedy, theatre, dance, cabaret and more, occupying venues across the city in early to mid‑August. In recent years it has featured thousands of shows in hundreds of locations, ranging from street performers to avant‑garde theatre. With relatively cheap tickets, it remains accessible to new talent and audiences alike. Despite logistical challenges around accommodation and infrastructure, the Fringe continues to grow in global importance – its former chief executive argued it should be regarded on par with the Olympics for cultural status.
Edinburgh International Festival
Running concurrently with the Fringe, the Edinburgh International Festival is a curated celebration of world-class music, dance, theatre and visual arts. Founded in 1947, it showcases internationally esteemed artists performing in prestigious venues across the city throughout August . Over its history, EIF has hosted premieres of works by composers and playwrights and helped launch global cultural conversations. Though financially distinct from the Fringe’s grassroots energy, together the two festivals transform Edinburgh into an unrivalled global arts capital.
These flagship festivals are complemented by other celebrated events such as the Edinburgh Art Festival, Celtic Connections in Glasgow and the Hebridean Celtic Festival on the Isle of Lewis – each offering distinctive musical, theatrical, or cultural experiences deeply rooted in Scottish place and tradition.
Other lively regional festivals include Highland Games beyond Braemar, Feis Ile on Islay, the Spirit of Speyside whisky festival, or lesser-known events like the World Stone Skimming Championship and traditional gatherings across the isles – to enrich the UK-wide perspective for fiesta-loving audiences.
Festivals in the UK: Wales
Wales, often referred to as the Land of Song, boasts a rich and vibrant festival culture that reflects the country’s deep-rooted love of music, poetry and storytelling. From ancient traditions to cutting-edge contemporary events, the Welsh festival calendar is as varied as the landscape itself. At its heart lie the eisteddfodau – poetic and musical competitions that celebrate Welsh language and culture – with the National Eisteddfod and International Eisteddfod in Llangollen among the most renowned.
Music plays a central role in Welsh festivals, whether it’s folk gatherings in towns like Fishguard and Pontardawe, jazz in Brecon, classical concerts in St Asaph Cathedral, or the alternative vibes of the Green Man Festival in the Brecon Beacons. Literature lovers flock to Hay-on-Wye for one of the world’s most famous literary festivals, while food enthusiasts can enjoy dozens of food events from Aberaeron to Newtown. Whether you’re exploring Welsh heritage or discovering new creative voices, festivals in Wales offer an unforgettable mix of cultural richness and spectacular scenery.
National Eisteddfod of Wales
The National Eisteddfod of Wales is the country’s most prestigious cultural festival and a proud celebration of Welsh language, literature, music and performance. Held annually during the first week of August, it is a unique event that combines a competitive arts festival with a vibrant cultural gathering, attracting thousands of visitors from across Wales and beyond.
Unlike other festivals with permanent venues, the National Eisteddfod is nomadic in nature. Each year it relocates to a different host region, alternating between North and South Wales, allowing communities across the country to take ownership of the event and showcase their local heritage. This rotational format not only strengthens regional identity but also deepens national unity.
At the heart of the Eisteddfod is a packed programme of competitions, ranging from poetry and prose to music, dance and visual arts. The prestigious Chairing and Crowning of the Bard are emotional high points of the festival, honouring excellence in Welsh poetry. While most events are conducted in Welsh, simultaneous translation facilities ensure that non-Welsh speakers can also take part in the experience.
Beyond the competitions, the Maes – the temporary festival village – becomes a hub of cultural activity, featuring exhibitions, debates, concerts, food stalls and a strong presence from Welsh media, publishers and campaign groups. It is a living expression of modern Welsh identity, rooted in tradition but always evolving.
More than just an event, the National Eisteddfod serves as a cultural touchstone for the Welsh nation – a reaffirmation of language, creativity and community spirit that continues to thrive in the 21st century.
Festivals in Ireland
Ireland’s festival scene is a joyful expression of the country’s rich heritage, warm hospitality and irrepressible spirit. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and famously friendly people, Ireland offers an impressive calendar of festivals that reflect its unique blend of ancient tradition and contemporary creativity. Whether rooted in history or modern culture, these events provide unforgettable experiences for both locals and visitors.
From the global celebrations of St Patrick’s Day to the traditional music and dance of Fleadh Cheoil, Irish festivals bring communities together through shared passion and lively celebration. The capital, Dublin, hosts a wide range of arts and music festivals including the internationally acclaimed Temple Bar TradFest, while regional cities such as Galway are increasingly recognised as cultural powerhouses, offering events like the Galway International Arts Festival, the Oyster Festival and the iconic Galway Races.
Ireland’s love of music is matched by its appetite for variety – from local ceílí dances to large-scale rock and pop festivals like Oxegen. More eccentric offerings, such as Killorglin’s Puck Fair, add an unexpected twist to the festival landscape, ensuring that no matter when or where you visit, there’s likely to be a unique celebration unfolding.
Whether you come for the ‘craic’, the culture or the coastal charm, festivals in Ireland embody the warmth, wit and rhythm of a nation that truly knows how to celebrate. Some of the country’s most popular festivals to add to your diary are as follows:
St Patrick’s Day
Celebrated each year on 17 March, St Patrick’s Day is Ireland’s most iconic national holiday, honouring its patron saint. What began as a religious feast has grown into a global celebration of Irish identity, with parades, music, dance and a sea of green festivities in cities across the world. In Ireland itself, particularly in Dublin, the event takes on a vibrant, inclusive character, combining cultural showcases with street performances, fireworks and traditional music. From rural towns to urban centres, the entire country embraces the day with enthusiasm, making it a perfect introduction to the spirit of Irish celebration.
Wexford Opera Festival
Founded in 1951, the Wexford Festival Opera has established itself as a major event on the international opera calendar. Set in the charming seaside town of Wexford, this autumnal festival is known for its adventurous programming, often reviving rare and overlooked works. Performances take place in the state-of-the-art National Opera House, yet the festival’s influence spills out into the streets, pubs and galleries of the town, creating a truly immersive cultural experience. It attracts opera enthusiasts from around the world and plays a vital role in sustaining Ireland’s classical music scene.
Galway Oyster Festival
The Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival, held every September, is one of Ireland’s most unique gastronomic events. Dating back to 1954, it celebrates the native oyster season with a lively combination of food, music and revelry. The festival includes the World Oyster Opening Championship, gourmet tastings and lively street parties, all set against the backdrop of Galway’s historic streets and Atlantic coast. Blending fine dining with traditional Irish hospitality, it’s a must for food lovers and curious travellers alike.
Puck Fair
Held each August in the town of Killorglin, County Kerry, Puck Fair is one of Ireland’s oldest and most eccentric festivals. Its origins trace back over 400 years, with the curious tradition of crowning a wild mountain goat as ‘King Puck’ for the duration of the three-day event. The festival includes music, street performances, a horse fair and fireworks, offering a surreal yet charming glimpse into Irish folklore and rural community life. Its blend of pagan symbolism and carnival atmosphere makes it one of the most distinctive celebrations in the country.
Fleadh Cheoil Music Festival
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is the world’s largest annual celebration of Irish traditional music, drawing performers and audiences from across the globe. Organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, it typically takes place each August in a different host town, which becomes a hub of ceílí dancing, instrumental competitions, street sessions and impromptu performances. The festival not only preserves and promotes Irish musical heritage but also brings generations together in a shared appreciation of song, dance and storytelling.
Galway Races
Held at the end of July and into early August, the Galway Races is one of Ireland’s most celebrated horse racing festivals. Set at the Ballybrit Racecourse, it combines sporting excitement with high fashion, socialising and a festive spirit that spills across the entire city. With Ladies’ Day, live music and seven days of thrilling races, the Galway Races is both a key event in the racing calendar and a major social occasion, attracting visitors from all over Ireland and beyond.
Galway Arts Festival
The Galway International Arts Festival, held each July, is one of Europe’s leading multi-arts events, showcasing theatre, music, visual art, dance and performance. Since its founding in 1978, the festival has earned an international reputation for innovation and creativity, drawing renowned artists while also nurturing new talent. With events held in theatres, public spaces and unconventional venues across the city, it transforms Galway into a stage for bold artistic expression and cultural exchange. The atmosphere is electric, making it a highlight of Ireland’s cultural calendar.
