Festive seasons around the glove

FINLAND ICE MARATHON

February 24 to 27, Kuopio, Finland

The frozen surface of Kuopio’s Lake Kallavesi is hit by thousands of blades during the international Finland Ice Marathon, which attracts skating enthusiasts both for fitness and competition. The keep-fit series has become a favourite and is now the marathon’s largest event. The highlight of the day though is the Mini-Marathon, where the youngest participants attempt to complete the 500m course.

 

DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL

January 1 to February 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is second to none when it comes to shopping, and the best time for shopaholics is during the huge, sprawling Dubai Shopping Festival. More than two million visitors attend the event each year, as reductions are offered across a vast range of must-haves, from jewellery to fashion, electrical goods and carpets. The most atmospheric shopping is to be found in the souks, located on either side of Dubai Creek, where bargaining is part of the buzz. Be prepared for international theatre and street performances, fashion shows, nightly fireworks and laser shows, prize draws, film festivals, children’s events and handicraft shows. 

 

GOA CARNIVAL

February 6 to 9, Goa, India

Introduced by the Portuguese, Goa Carnival was primarily celebrated by Christians before absorbing traditional Hindu revelry. Today, it draws thousands of people from all over the country. Huge colourful parades take over the Indian state’s cities with bands, floats and dances, while the evenings mean serious partying wherever you are.

 

AUCKLAND ANNIVERSARY DAY REGATTA

February 1, Waitemata Harbour, New Zealand

The first Auckland Regatta was held on the day the city was founded – September 18, 1840, – when Captain Hobson’s officials raised the flag to take formal possession of the site in the name of Queen Victoria, 11 years before the first America's Cup. Every year Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour comes alive in one of the world's biggest one-day Regattas with hundreds of boats lining up in the harbour. There are also different races and parades throughout the day. Visit www.Regatta.org.nz.

 

PARO TSECHU FESTIVAL

March 19 to 23, Paro, Bhutan

This annual festival takes place for five days in the massive Paro monastery in Bhutan’s west. The colourful dances of many names, such as “Lord of Death and his Consort”, “Lords of the Cremation Grounds” and “Eight Kinds of Spirits”, entertain the locals – who usually dress up in their best traditional costumes. For the exact days of Paro Tsechu Festival, visit www.Tourism.Gov.bt.

 

RIO CARNIVAL

February 5 to 10, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Once again, the samba spirit reigns over the Rio Carnival. After months of preparation, every samba school takes to the streets in an effort to win the favour of the crowds and whip onlookers into a frenzy of singing and dancing. Judges at strategic points along the carnival grade the contestants on everything from enthusiasm, discipline and costume to rhythm and dance. Visit www.Rio-carnival.net.