📋 Table of Contents
📌 Read in :
Français (French)
After a festive end to the year, January arrives, and let’s be honest, the month isn’t exactly ideal for travelling. With the start of the year, we tend to dive back into work and daydream about sandy beaches for our summer holidays. However, January does offer some great events in Europe. Whether it’s the Monte Carlo Rally, the Scottish festival Celtic Connections, or the Kiruna Snow Festival in Sweden, there are plenty of opportunities for entertainment and a good reason to explore beyond one’s borders. Here’s where to head to in Europe in January, based on the festivals and events taking place.
In Monaco for the Monte Carlo rally | Monaco
Where? Monaco, in the principality of the same name (map)
When? For the dates of the next edition, go to the official website
While we’ve mentioned “Monaco” as the location, most of the Monte Carlo Rally actually takes place in the Alpes-Maritimes, Ardèche, Drôme, and Hautes-Alpes, further north, varying from year to year. This competition, established in 1911, is organised every January and is part of the World Rally Championship. Sure, you have to be into motor sports, but the race always takes place in a stunning setting, making it a perfect excuse to visit southeastern France (and a bit of Monaco, of course).
In Glasgow for the Celtic Connections | United Kingdom
Where? Glasgow, west of Edinburgh, southern Scotland (map)
When? For specific dates, check the official festival website
The festival bills itself as the premier Celtic event in the UK. And it’s easy to believe. This must-attend Celtic cultural event has been held annually since 1994 in Glasgow, featuring nearly 300 concerts, lectures, and workshops. With an educational aspect to the festival, thousands of children participate. Spanning over fifteen days, it provides ample time to immerse oneself in this identity. For the night owls, every evening after the concerts, the Celtic Connections Festival Club continues the celebrations into the early hours, always offering a surprise – no programme is announced beforehand.
A Ronse for the Ronsese Bommelfeesten | Belgium
Where? Ronse, west of Brussels (map)
When? For the dates of the next edition, go to the official website
In Dutch, “Bommel lopen” translates to “wandering masked”, as mentioned by the town of Ronse’s website. This captures the essence and proceedings of the event. The Bommel festival is held at the very start of the year, the weekend following Epiphany. What’s it like? Think of the large-scale carnivals that Belgians are known for. Over three days, the town is flooded with thousands of revellers, to the sound of brass bands and accompanied by towering effigies. A touch of madness to kick off the year.
In Tromsø for the Northern Lights Festival | Norway
Where? Tromsø, northern Norway (map)
When? For exact dates, visit the official website
Craving vast landscapes, polar chill, and Norwegian culture? The Northern Lights Festival, held in the northern city of Tromsø since 1988, is just for you! The event annually showcases top artists ranging from ancient to modern music, from opera to jazz, from chamber music to symphonies. In total, over 500 concerts and performances have taken place since the inception of this now indispensable Norwegian festival.
🌌 Don’t miss out on the northern lights. To be honest, they don’t coincide with the festival, but if you wish to witness Norway’s most magnificent night lights, we’ve got a whole article on that.
In Kiruna for the Kiruna Snow Festiva l | Sweden
Where? Kiruna, in the far north of Sweden (map)
When? For the dates of the next edition, go to the Festival website
The festival celebrates snow and the return of light and is held in the small town of Kiruna, northern Sweden, 140 kilometres above the Arctic Circle. It has taken place every last weekend of January since 1986. Activities centred around snow and cold are featured: from the world championships of snow blowers (yes, really) to art exhibitions, dog sledding, figure skating, music performances and even a children’s play area made entirely of snow. A haven for lovers of the Far North.
In Basel for the Vogel Gryff Festival | Swiss
Where? Basel, west of Zurich, in northern Switzerland (map)
When? To find out when the next edition is held, consult the official website
This marks a significant cultural highlight for Basel. The Vogel Gryff Festival revolves around a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, featuring a Wild Man (Wild Maa), a Griffin (Vogel Gryff), and a Lion (Leu). The latter two welcome the first to dance in the streets of Lesser Basel. Numerous activities take place while these three mythical creatures entertain.
In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria for Carnival | Spain
Where? Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital of the Canary Islands (map)
When? For the next edition, visit the official website
The Carnaval Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is an annual celebration akin to the renowned Rio de Janeiro Carnival. This event is a kaleidoscope of colours, music, and dance, encapsulating the festive spirit of Canary Islands culture. Participants adorn themselves in vibrant costumes and parade through the streets to upbeat music. The carnival is famous for its spectacular parades, concerts, and dances, drawing both locals and tourists into a lively celebration of life and Canarian culture. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in a festival rich in traditions, exuberance, and artistic creativity.
Our short list of European destinations to visit in January is wrapped up. Of course, it isn’t exhaustive. So, please feel free to share your suggestions in the comments.