The Mediterranean Basin has always been the cradle of culture and tradition diversity, where tourists flock every year seeking a taste of its unique identity from the variety of Festivals and national events that take place in all the lively regions of the Med. So if you're looking for a fun and culturally rich holidays, it's the place for you.
NORTH AFRICA: EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
This is where the Moorish and Arabian cultures blend together to give a very amusing traditions and festivals.
There are sport events like the Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert Morocco in April, hundreds of runners gather from all around the world to compete in a one of the kind marathon.
International Festivals like Mawazine in Morocco, very famous celebration, bringing each summer the elite singers from all around the world (www.festivalmawazine.ma)
the International Carthage Festival in Tunisia held in the ancient Roman ruins of Carthage annually in the summer season between mid July and mid August, a festival of music theater opera and cinema
(www.festivaldecarthage.com)
And to fully immerse in the North African culture, you shouldn’t miss the National Amazigh Film Festival in Algeria and The Sahara Festival in Douz Tunisia. (www.festivaldouz.org.tn)
MEDITERRANEAN EUROPE FESTIVALS
Spain -who knows how to celebrate life more than the Spaniards- this is where you can go crazy and totally immerse in an upbeat and fun atmosphere.
San Sebastian Festival, in Majorca and San Sebastian is an explosion of craziness, dance and music taking place in January in celebration of St.Sebastian.
The Traditional Arizkun Carnival, in Navarra held in February, People wearing sheepskin coats jumping over bonfires. That should be fun. In mid May comes the Fiesta de San Isidro, Madrid’s largest fest. And of course the one and only SanFermin bulls Festival, prepare to run and go to Pamplona in mid July.
July is the month of festivity in Italy, with food, music and medieval festivals, it’s pumping with activities. Festivals like Palio in Siena and the Festa de la Madonna Bruna are very famous and exciting.
In France, it’s without doubt that movie festival in Canne is the Event of the year, that’s when the town shifts into chic and upbeat mode, very fun time of the year (www.festival-cannes.fr).
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW?
North African countries as well as Turkey, celebrate the holy month of Ramadan annually, and some restriction can be employed regarding alcohol consumption in same places. So before going check out if it's Ramadan or not, to be fully prepared.