Delve into Europe’s folk culture and you’ll find both familiar stories and others that are new to you. Folk customs are alive and well all around the continent to celebrate the cycles of the seasons, life’s big moments —coming of age, marriage, childbirth — and of course, holidays. Some of the pageantry you can witness is about the governing bodies of a country or is a replay of an important historical event. Regardless of the reason, you’re sure to hear traditional music, see amazing costumes, taste special foods, and feel the pride locals take in these celebrations. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to join in the dancing!
The Official Travel Portal of Europe
Myth and legend in Europe
Featured destinations
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Carnivals in Europe
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5 folkloric places to experience carnival, chosen by locals.
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Germany’s traditions and customs
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Experience German folklore in every season.
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Slovak Carnival is party time
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We’ll show you how to celebrate like a local!
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Carnival of Podence in Portugal
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…and more UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage!
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Carnival events in Greece
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Festival traditions and merrymaking.
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Romania – rich in folklore
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Experience living traditions!
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Colors of Czech traditions
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Enjoy Czechia’s folkloric customs!
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Traditional celebrations in Latvia
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Experience folklore, enjoy festivals!
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Poland: beliefs and superstitions
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Salt mines, Twardowski's mirror, clover…
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Croatia’s Nijemo Kolo tradition
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The dance without music!
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Carnival traditions in Luxembourg
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Good fun, sweet pretzels, and hot fire!
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Ethnological festivals in Slovenia
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Back to the roots of Slovenia’s cultural heritage.
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Journey through Spain’s traditions
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Spanish UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
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San Marino's medieval atmosphere
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Thrilling time travel.
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Estonia unites in song!
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Tallinn to host Youth Song and Dance Festival!
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Switzerland’s Bernese Fasnacht
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Bern’s iconic Carnival is 40 years strong.
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Getting to know customs of Serbia
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From traditions to travel memories.
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Flanders, cycling heaven
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The spring classics: both top sport and folklore.
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