Introduction
If you're imagining a memorable European trip that's brimming with music, culture, and something unexpected, Loveholidays has everything you need. The festival season doesn't stop when August stops; in fact, the following months are some of Europe's most iconic events. Bavarian beer- soaked tradition, to fairy-tale Christmas markets, here's the festivals you should plan into your itinerary.
1. Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany (20 September – 5 October 2025)
Imagine raising a mug with nearly 6 million other celebrants at the world's most famous beer festival! City people distinguish Oktoberfest for its cold lagers; However, this festival is about Bavarian culture with music, parades, and people in lederhosen and dirndls; There will be lots of loud cheering, enthusiastic brass bands, and a general richness and warmth about the festival and culture that you will yell out "Prost!" during the whole visit.
2. Advent Markets – Vienna, Austria (November – December 2025)
As winter comes around and the chill bites down, Vienna glimmers with the magic of the Christmas markets. With stalls having artisanal gifts, sweet and hearty local culinary delights, and twinkling lights under Vienna's stunning architecture, it would be difficult for anyone not to enjoy themselves. With over 20 or so unique and charming markets - typically at City Hall, Belvedere Palace or Maria-Theresien Platz - this is a Christmas Wonderland and exciting experience for anyone looking for festive cheer.
3. Lord Mayor's Show – London, United Kingdom (8 November 2025)
This pageantry-filled procession has been a part of the London calendar since the 1500s. A celebration bursting with music, floats and well, pageantry, thousands of people from London and beyond, take to the streets to witness the newly elected Lord Mayor of London parade through the City of London; rather than just visit a living history book, there is much carnival about it!
4. Sinterklaas Procession – Amsterdam, Netherlands (5 – 6 December 2025)
Dutch holiday magic is alive and well in Amsterdam with the arrival of Sinterklaas, who arrives by boat – along with 600 happy "Pieten", of course! There was also a musical program in Dam Square and an appearance on the balcony at Leidseplein! After all, it's not just a parade. This is a cultural experience that embraces childhood wonder and brings warmth and joy regardless of age!
5. Hogmanay – Edinburgh, Scotland (31 December 2025 – 1 January 2026)
Celebrate the New Year more than ever before at Edinburgh's three-day Hogmanay festival. With street parties, concerts and fireworks, all taking place in front of the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, it easily becomes one of the most exciting and scenic celebrations in the world.
6. Spain's La Tomatina – Buñol (Last Wednesday of August 2025)
Strictly, just squishing the premise, technically La Tomatina takes place on the last Wednesday of August and in 2025, the last Wednesday is right at the end of summer. It's a tomato event like no other: over 120 tons of tomatoes raining down with 22,000 participants sticky in all the good ways! Grab your goggles and gloves, and join in the most fabulously messy festival in all of Europe.
Why Travel with Loveholidays?
Simplicity in planning: Loveholidays is managing the details for you, so simply focus on enjoying the thought of your trip rather than worrying about it! How great it is that you get your flights booked, your accommodation is confirmed, and you can coordinate travel along with festivals in various packages - done for you. Authentic Local Experiences: Experience snippets of local culture at Bavarian beer halls and Amsterdam's historic canals, and festivals are literally at the heart of Europe.
Suitable for every vibe: Whether you're drinking an Oktoberfest beer, at the festive markets in Vienna, or watching Edinburgh's fireworks, the festival experience corresponds with your vibe.
Sample Itineraries:
Option A: Autumn Glow
- (20 Sept – 5 Oct) Enjoy Oktoberfest in Munich.
- Then be adventurous and make your way to Vienna: This is the trip to see Christmas markets, but only in November or December!
Option B: Winter Magic Tour
- (Early November) Open in London with the Lord Mayor's Show.
- (5-6 Dec) Sinterklaas Procession in Amsterdam.
- (31 Dec to 1 Jan) New Year's Eve and Hogmanay in Edinburgh.
Option C: Summary of Summer
- (Late August) Get messy and enjoy La Tomatina!
- (September) Enjoy your summer and prepare for the festive season.
What Are Some Local Tips?
Book early - especially for Oktoberfest and the markets in Vienna!
Stay Central - You can get an immediate feel for the local vibe, and even the festival, if you are within walking distance of the venues.
Dress for the weather and venue - wear lots of layers in winter, wear what feels comfortable at a festival or costume.
Plan to do more than just the festival - most festivals can be complemented with local tourism opportunities, so make sure to plan for opportunities for city walks, museums or cafés!
Final Thoughts
Whether you are after warm beer in Munich, twinkly lights in Vienna, pomp and ceremony in London, sweet festive magic in Amsterdam, or an epic countdown in Edinburgh, Loveholidays has all the right stuff to help you plan your perfect Christmas adventure. Let the countdown begin!