There’s a lot to celebrate in Europe – especially during one of Europe’s many fire and ice festivals. Each festival is different from the rest, but they’re all a good time. From Iceland to Malta and everywhere in between, Europe’s festivals are some of the most colorful, festive and energetic celebrations on the planet. Browse some of the best and literally the brightest fire and ice festivals in Europe with this photo gallery.
Belgium’s Snow and Ice Festival is a true winter wonderland. Artists create breathtaking ice sculptures. Children glide down ice slides. And live performances bring it all to life.
Pyrotechnic magicians put on awe-inspiring displays at Las Fallas de Valencia. Participants create puppets known as ninots to be destroyed by fire at the peak of the festivities. It’s a satirical celebration that’s all in good fun and is always a yearly highlight in Spain.
See the sky shine brightest after sunset at the Malta Fireworks Festival. The festival consists of three days of fireworks, food and fun. It’s all to pay tribute to Malta’s accession into the European Union back in 2004.
The premier summer celebration in Portugal, Festival do Atlântico is a party that needs four Saturdays in July to be fully appreciated. It’s all topped off with an array of firework displays choreographed alongside music.
Music takes center stage at the Leigo Lake Festival in Estonia. Witness professionally trained orchestras strum their stuff with Leigo Lake as the backdrop at this tranquil August celebration.
One of the biggest fireworks shows in Europe has taken place in Iceland for the past 15 years. Vibrant colors of fireworks not only illuminate the night sky but also reflect off of the calm waters during the Fireworks Show at Jokulsarlon.
Romance comes naturally in Europe. With so many things to see and do, it’s no coincidence that Europe is one of the top destinations in the world for romantic getaways. From popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower to lesser-known spots like waterfalls in Iceland, browse this gallery to prep for the best romantic sightseeing in Europe.
Set sail on Europe’s high seas with a cruise. Explore the water and coastal destinations of one of Europe’s many cruise options, from big luxury cruise lines to chartering a small fishing boat.
Europe’s culture is not limited to its numerous art museums and palaces. Some of Europe’s greatest stories can be heard over a glass of wine, beer or other drink within the walls of a pub or finest alcohol outlets off the beaten track.
If your European vacation includes the words “birdie,” “par” and “eagle,” then these golf courses are must-visit spots for you. Tee off at eight of Europe’s most pristine golf courses from the level greens of Malta to the towering cliffs of Portugal. No matter what type of course you’re looking for, Europe is bound to have it.
The reason why Styrian fried chicken in particular is so famous has a lot to do with the “Sulmtal Geflügel” (“Sulmtal poultry”), which is now undergoing something of a revival. Since the 17th century, this name has been given to the particularly fleshy capons and poulards which proved highly popular amongst the nobility of Europe. During the Habsburg Monarchy, this delicious poultry was even supplied to markets on the far side of the Alps, as far away as Trieste and Marburg.
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