Festivals and Events

We visit some of the most fascinating cultural festivals in the world. Join us in exotic destinations across the planet for a window on local culture and customs, special events and some of the worlds most colourful and sometimes bizarre festivals.

Posted on November 12, 2012 by Guest Bloggers

The Confucius Festival in China

You would be forgiven for thinking that an event celebrating the birth of one of the greatest teachers, politicians and philosophers of all time might be a serious affair. However, the celebrations which still surround great thinker Confucius’s birthday could … Continue reading →

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Posted on August 29, 2012 by OTG Team

Festival Spotlight – Diwali, the Festival of Light

Diwali Festival is known worldwide as one of the most jubilant of the Indian festivals. But how much do you know about it? Find out more about the famous Festival of Light. Diwali lanterns Diwali is celebrated in India and … Continue reading →

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Posted on July 25, 2012 by OTG Team

Video of the Week – Kandy Perahera Festival of Sri Lanka

The annual Kandy Festival in Sri Lanka is one of the most important Buddhist festivals around leading up to the full moon in August. Take a look at this amazing video, comprised of still images from the various parades and … Continue reading →

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Posted on July 18, 2012 by OTG Team

Video of the Week: A Throw to the Ground

The annual Naadam Festival is a celebration of traditional Mongolian culture taking place in July. Over three days, the ‘Three Manly Games’ are performed by participants for the enjoyment of locals and fascinated foreigners alike. Watch ‘A Throw to the … Continue reading →

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Posted on July 2, 2012 by OTG Team

Video of the Week: The Pushkar Camel Fair

The Pushkar Camel Fair is an annual tradition in India, bringing traders from all over Rajasthan to buy and sell camels and other livestock. But the growing Indian economy poses a threat to these traditional traders. Watch our latest video … Continue reading →

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Posted on June 18, 2012 by OTG Team

China prepares for the annual Dragon Boat Festival

Celebrated in China and in Chinese communities across the world, the annual Dragon Boat Festival is a cultural showcase, featuring ornate rowing boats, rowed by 80 -100 people to the beat of large traditional drums. But there’s more to the … Continue reading →

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Posted on June 15, 2012 by Guest Bloggers

Trekking with the Berbers of Morocco

In today’s guest post, journalist Hazel Southam treks into the mountains with the Berbers of Morocco, a traditional bi-annual journey between the Dades Valley and the High Atlas mountains. All photos courtesy of Clare Kendall. Souks, storytellers and snake charmers … Continue reading →

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Posted on June 1, 2012 by Shafik Meghji

Festival Spotlight – Hola Mohalla festival in Anandpur Sahib, India

Travel writer, journalist and editor Shafik Meghji writes his first post for us about the fascinating festival of Hola Mohalla, held annually in the Punjabi city of Anandpur Sahib, India. With its celebration of athleticism, equestrian events and martial arts … Continue reading →

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Posted on May 14, 2012 by OTG Team

Photo Showcase – top five festival highlights

Summer is on its way in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing an armful of exciting festivals to entertain and delight locals and travellers alike in destinations across the world. And as the seasons change and bring warm weather back to the … Continue reading →

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Posted on April 30, 2012 by OTG Team

Festival spotlight – shake it in Sri Lanka!

Three of the most popular Sri Lankan festivals commemorate important events in Buddhism, and include Vesak Festival, Kandy Perahera and Duruthu Perahera festival. Find out more about these amazing festivals here. Vesak Festival is one of the most important festivals … Continue reading →

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