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Festival fever Whether it’s taking part in the world’s biggest tomato fight, drinking beer with six million people or running alongside bulls, there’s an event for it In many cases, these now world-renowned festivals started off as small village traditions. However, the locals couldn’t keep them secret for long, as the colourful and sometimes dangerous events caught the eye of intrepid travellers, who regaled their tales to other backpackers. People now gather en masse for these huge celebrations. Here are our 10 faves.
UP HELLY AA, Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland WHEN January 31 WHAT This is the largest fire festival in Europe. More than 1000 costumed revellers (known as the Jari Squad) march holding burning torches to pay homage to the Shetland’s Viking heritage. The ceremony ends as the hundreds of flaming torches are thrown into a long-ship. Then the celebration really kicks off, with music and entertainment ‘til the early hours. The following day is a public holiday, to allow for recovery – so expect a party to remember.
Up Helly Aa: best for fire lovers GETTING THERE Fly to Shetland from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Orkney. There are also ferries operating. ACCOMMODATION Dorm beds start from £10, private rooms from £17. Book accommodation early. VISA No visas required if you have one for the UK. SEE uphellyaa.org
RIO CARNIVAL, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil WHEN February 17-21 WHAT While some cities like to boast they host the world’s best festival, there’s no doubt that Rio’s Carnival is the biggest, sexiest, most colourful and most famous. It’s a hedonistic festival, which dates back to the Ancient Greeks celebrating Dionysus, the god of wine. And no one does hedonism better than the Brazilians. For five days Rio is a riot of festivities, culminating in a parade where dancers and drummers strut their stuff to see which samba school will be crowned champion. Don’t miss it. GETTING THERE Most London airports fly to Rio. ››
Enjoy the buzz in Pamplona TNTMAGAZINE.COM 117