Autumn is the time for fairs and festivals in the United States, and it’s also true in Europe. The crisp air, turning leaves and general coziness of September lends itself well to outdoor entertainment. No matter where you go in Europe, chances are great that you’ll be able to find a festival or fair to attend this month. Here are a few September festivals in Europe to check out if you are abroad this fall:
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Regata Storica, Venice, Italy Every year on the first Sunday of September, which in 2013 is September 1, people gather to watch the most popular regatta in Venice. The first event is a parade of boats, decorated as though they’re right out of the 16th century, and manned by crews dressed in period costume. The boats start out in Castello, race west to what used to be the convent of Santa Chiara, then turn around and head to the finish line at Ca’ Foscari. Join the locals in cheering on the participants in this historic regatta. For a better view, make the climb up to the bell tower on St. Mark’s Square.
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Cow Ball, Bohinj, Slovenia If you’re looking for something traditional to those in Slovenia but out-of-the-ordinary, to say the least, for Americans, consider attending the Cow Ball in Bohinj on Sunday, September 15, 2013. Cattle are the stars of this ball, as it’s a celebration of the homecoming of the bovine guests of honor. After spending the summer in the fields, the cows return to the Alpine valley, and all eyes are upon them. You’ll see them adorned with wreaths and escorted in a parade by milkmaids, cheese-makers, dairy farmers and herders. While you’re there, you’ll want to check out the folk-dancing, sling-shooting, log-sawing and other fun pastimes of a bygone era.
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International Oyster Festival, Galway, Ireland If seafood is more your style, then you won’t want to miss the International Oyster Festival, held this year on September 26-29. Aside from St. Patrick’s Day, this is the most popular and well-known festival in Ireland. There will be oyster-shucking competitions, oyster-eating competitions, family events, music, talks for and by food experts, and so much more. There will even be a Mardi Gras-type event, complete with colorful clothing and masks, held on the streets after dark.
- Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany Oktoberfest actually begins in the second half of September, and it’s an event that you should attend at least once in your life if you can! From the crowds to the beer, Oktoberfest is the ultimate in revelry, and it’s held every year in southern Germany. Dress in a traditional dirndl and really get into the spirit!
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Europeans know how to celebrate the fall just like Americans do, albeit sometimes differently. Have you attended any amazing fall festivals in Europe? Share your thoughts with our readers in the comments section below!
