Even though we are well into the summer season, there's still plenty planned for August and September. Dropping in on a local celebration can give you a glimpse of the regional culture, see how the locals play, and meet some people in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Check with the national tourist board of the countries you are planning to visit before you leave, and see if your trip will be coinciding with any festivals or holiday celebrations. Alternatively, stop in at the local tourist office when you arrive, and get the latest information on what's happening around town.
I've gathered together a few of the "happenings" in Europe that are either still on going or yet to come. Check them out if you think you might be heading in that direction this summer....
GERMANY
Die Bayreuther Festspiele runs from June 25 until August 28, when Bavaria transforms into an exciting melange of events.
ITALY
The 77th Verona Arena Festival is held between June 25 and August 29. The Arena of Verona is the most famous contemporary "archeological theaters"-an amphitheater where you can watch performances of your favorite operas and other classics of the stage. This season will include four new stagings- three operas (Aida, Madame Butterfly and The Merry Widow) and a ballet (The Tempest). In total, the calendar for this season boasts 51 performances over the course of 46 evenings.
SCOTLAND
Scotland Jazz Concerts. If you like jazz, you should be able to find a concert to your liking in Scotland. There are 64 concerts being held in Edinburgh alone. Check out this website for more information, or contact the local tourist board when you arrive in Scotland.
Edinburgh International Book Festival If you love books, this is the place to be. Held August 14-30, writers, readers and anyone else with a connection to books will gather at the beautiful Charlotte Square Gardens to share their passion. Meet some of the biggest names in international fiction, as well as rising new authors in Scottish literature.
AUSTRIA
The Salzburg Festival is one of the best and most famous in classical music. Held July 24-August 29, it is a veritable gathering of who's who of classical musicians. If you love Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Verdi, etc. etc., etc., you'll find nirvana at Salzburg. july 24-aug 29 world famous, offers drama, opera and concerts-all of the superstars gather here in Slazburg-Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Haydn, Verdi-if they've made a name for themselves in classical music, then no doubt their legacy will be heard here in Austria during one of the best music festivals in the world.
