Europe In Full Bloom: 20 Unforgettable Spring Festivals And Events

Home to some of the world’s best Spring festivals, European festivals never fail to evoke magic and wonder. We at Spritzience think building a festival into your vacation itinerary is the definition of affordable luxury. It gives you time to slow down and enjoy the festivities, celebrating with the locals. Making a small effort to speak a few words in the local language, or wearing a partial costume ( a special hat, headband or face paint), can have you completely welcomed into the fold.

If you’re traveling to Europe why not coordinate your dates to take advantage of a festival celebrating the king, the saints, a vintage car race or furniture fairs (both modern and vintage). In most cases people are outside in the streets enjoying a Spritz at a cafe as they celebrate. Even at our furniture fairs – think DJs inside a palace and maybe even some Champagne. Come along with Spritizience as we share our favorite highlights and show you how to combine them into the ultimate trip.

Spring Festivals During March

1. Parma Mercanteinfiera (Italy): March

Parma’s Mercanteinfiera is a paradise for antique lovers. This is one of Europe’s largest antique fairs, attracting collectors and treasure hunters from all over. In 2025, there are 2 editions. Spring is held from March 8th to 16th and fall from October 11th to 19th.

Our strategy is to go near the end of the show. As vendors are more willing to negotiate on prices – they don’t want to minimize what they’re packing up and bringing home. We’ve bought all sorts of treasures here – from vintage bookshelves to wrought iron garden mirrors and everything in between – vintage pharmacy jars and wooden shoe forms. Vendors who have brick and mortar stores usually offer special discounts. So I’ve learned best to stock up on items here.

The fair also has a large section of vintage paintings, jewelry, and clothing, and, in our opinion, is a treasure trove for mid-century modern furniture. To fully take it in, plan for at least 4 hours if you’re a fast mover or 6 to 8 hours if you’re scouting for a number of things. You’ll find everything you need to transform your home into a veritable wunderkammer.

Parma is A Foodie’s Delight

Beyond the fair, Parma is a cute town that is a true gastronomic wonderland. Restaurants serve special pastas filled with cheeses and herbs (tortelli d’erbetta), risottos, and plenty of dishes featuring the local Prosciutto di Parma. The city’s elegant piazzas and vintage theater make it a great stop on a central Italy itinerary.

For a well-rounded trip, pair Parma with a visit to Bologna and Modena for more food delights, creating a perfect blend of cultural and culinary indulgence.

2. Festa di Mandorle (Agrigento, Italy): March

The Festa di Mandorle (Almond Blossom Festival) in Agrigento is a spectacular celebration of Sicilian heritage, spring, and the fragrant almond trees in bloom. Held in the stunning Valley of the Temples, it dates back to the 1930s. It brings together folklore groups from around the world.

The festival is a fusion of performances in front of ancient Greek ruins, parades, and lively dance performances in the main town square. If you’re lucky, the almond trees will be in blossom, they give off the most intoxicating scent. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the festival serves as a bridge between past and present. Uniting the island’s deep-rooted traditions with an international audience. Every year, groups from different countries participate in colorful processions, showcasing their own folk dances and costumes, making the event a cultural melting pot.

Food Specialties

On the edge of the old town, local artisans display crafts, and special pop-up food stalls offer a selection of foods, including almond-based sweets like the famous Sicilian marzipan and pastries. It’s great to combine a festival with a day exploring Agrigento’s UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples.

As the festival coincides with the start of spring, it’s an ideal time to visit and soak in the rich cultural atmosphere of Sicily. For a great 1-week itinerary, fly into Palermo and spend a couple of days visiting the baroque old town. Head to Cefalu to see the Unesco-listed duomo and soak in the atmosphere of a small fishing village. Then take the train to Agrigento to spend a few days at the Festa di Mandorle (Almond Blossom Festival).

3. Obidos Chocolate Festival (Portugal): March 21st-April 6th

Every spring, the medieval town of Óbidos transforms into a chocolate lover’s paradise with the arrival of the Festival Chocolate Óbidos. This world-renowned event brings together master chocolatiers, pastry chefs, and artisans. They showcase their talents through extravagant chocolate sculptures, innovative desserts, and hands-on workshops.

From the moment you step into the festival, the air is filled with the rich aroma of cocoa. The fair area inside the castle walls comes alive with vibrant stalls offering everything from handcrafted truffles to decadent chocolate fondues. The festival offers an unforgettable journey through the art and taste of chocolate.

But the Festival Chocolate Óbidos isn’t just about indulging in sweets. It’s also an immersive experience where chocolate takes center stage in unexpected ways. Cooking demonstrations reveal how cocoa can be incorporated into savory dishes. While mixologists craft chocolate-infused cocktails.

One of the festival’s biggest highlights is the international chocolate sculpture competition. Artists create jaw-dropping edible masterpieces that defy imagination. The event also caters to families, with kid-friendly activities like chocolate painting workshops. Plus, there are interactive exhibits that explore the history of cocoa from bean to bar.

Beyond the festival grounds, Óbidos itself enhances the experience with its enchanting medieval backdrop. As you wander through its charming streets, you’ll find cozy cafés. Try a chocolate-infused delicacy, like the traditional Ginjinha liqueur served in edible chocolate cups. Then admire the stunning views from the ramparts of the town’s ancient walls.

4. Keukenhof (Netherlands): March to May

Keukenhof, the world’s largest flower garden, is a breathtaking explosion of color each spring. Located near Amsterdam, this 79-acre park is open for just eight weeks from March 20th to May 11th, 2025. It’s spectacular to see gardens with row upon row of flowers, seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, to be exact.

Beyond the dazzling floral displays, Keukenhof offers bike rentals to explore the surrounding fields. You’ll also find boat tours through the waterways, and hands-on workshops for gardening enthusiasts. Themed pavilions provide insight into Dutch horticultural traditions, making this a paradise for flower lovers.

If you’re visiting Keukenhof, consider pairing it with Koningsdag in Amsterdam on April 27th, 2025, for a truly unforgettable Dutch experience. It’s a combination of natural beauty and lively celebration.

And if you love exploring gardens, with a twist- think futuristic vibes, towering Supertrees, lush conservatories, and stunning floral displays consider making a stopover in Singapore as you head to or from Europe. Find out what it’s like to experience the Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, on a day tour.

Spring Festivals During April

5. Fuori Salone (Italy) April 7-13th, 2025

If you love cutting-edge design, Fuori Salone is the place to be. Held alongside Milan Design Week every April, this citywide event turns Milan into an open-air exhibition of art, architecture, and innovation. From stunning showrooms to quirky pop-ups in hidden courtyards, the festival showcases the best in contemporary design.

From exhibits in historical palazzi to luxury brand showcases at brand headquarters, every corner of Milan pulses with creative energy. Areas like Brera, Tortona, and Isola become hotspots for design lovers, featuring pop-up bars, exclusive parties, DJs, and unique installations. You’ll find all the high-end furniture brands plus luxury brands like Porsche, and Veuve Cliquot often have unique installations.

While you’re in Milan, check out some venues for a hand-crafted cocktail. Visit at least one of our favorite spots for mouth-watering gourmet pizzas.

A great 1-week itinerary is to fly into Milan and spend a couple of days enjoying the Fuori Salone. Then head to Lake Como for a couple of days to enjoy the villas and a Spritz with a view. Finish your trip by taking the high-speed Freccia train from Milan to Venice. Where you can enjoy the city and buy amazing hand-crafted Venice souvenirs. For a unique experience take a private taxi boat from Venice to the Venice airport.

6. Foundation of Rome (Italy): April 21st

Every April 21st, Rome marks its legendary founding with grand celebrations, reenactments, and a dazzling fireworks display over the Tiber. Known as Natale di Roma, this is one of the spring festivals most steeped in history, honoring the city’s origins in 753 BC.

One of the highlights is the parade of costumed gladiators, senators, and vestal virgins. They march through the streets, evoking the grandeur of ancient Rome. The festivities also include historical reenactments at the Circus Maximus and light shows at the Colosseum.

For history buffs, this is the perfect time to visit Rome, as museums and archaeological sites often host special exhibitions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, experiencing Rome on its birthday is an unforgettable journey through time.

7. Koningsdag /King’s Day, (Netherlands): April 27th

Koningsdag, or King’s Day, is the Netherlands’ biggest and most exuberant national holiday. Celebrated every April 27th, it honors King Willem-Alexander’s birthday with city-wide festivities, and an infectious sea of orange-clad revelers.

Amsterdam is the heart of the celebration. You’ll find boat parties turning the canals into floating spring festivals and DJ playing in large squares. For a more relaxed experience, explore the street markets in Utrecht or the family-friendly activities in The Hague. The best way to join in? Wear something orange and dive into the joyous chaos.

Food stalls sell traditional Dutch treats like bitterballen and stroopwafels, while bars overflow with locally brewed beers. Whether you prefer wild parties or cultural exploration, King’s Day showcases the Dutch spirit in the most unforgettable way.

8. Frühlingsfest (Germany): April & May

Munich’s Frühlingsfest, or Spring Festivals, is often called Oktoberfest’s little sister—but it’s an event that stands on its own. Held from April 25th to May 11th, 2025, this festival brings all the charm of its autumn counterpart but with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.

There are fewer beer tents than Oktoberfest, as Fruhlingsfest has only 2. Howeer, what most people don’t realize is that it’s much easier to gain entrance to the tents during Fruhlingsfest. The tents have the same great atmosphere with Bavarian brass bands playing and traditional German fare, including pretzels, bratwurst, and roasted pork knuckles. However, it’s usually possible to find a seat at the tables without having reserved a ticket. This is important as you won’t be served a beer or food unless you have a seat.

Tips for Fruhlingsfest

I prefer to go during the early afternoon (lunch time) or early evening, 5 pm. At these times, you have the best chance of easily finding a seat. While it’s less busy than Oktoberfest, people do still reserve seats – these are booked by the entire table (usually 10 seats) months in advance. So it’s next to impossible to get a reserved seat. Unfortunately, you can’t book a partial table, say for 2 or 4 people.

Outside of the tents, there are beer gardens. Here, there are generally plenty of tables to sit at where you can almost always grab a seat. However, I don’t think they’re as much fun, as you can’t hear the brass band music, which is a big part of what makes the tents feel so festive. The Theresienwiese area, where Fruhlingsfest is held, also has Carnival rides and games to enjoy.

For a great 1-week itinerary, fly into Munich for a few days to enjoy Fruhlingsfest. Then take the train to Salzburg to enjoy the baroque buildings of the old town and follow in the footsteps of the Sound of Music for a few days. Or take the train North to medieval Nuremberg and Bamberg to admire the baroque architecture and palaces.

Spring Festivals During May

9. Camogli Fish Festival (Italy): May 11th

Camogli’s Fish Festival, held on the second Sunday of May, is unique and one of the most delicious spring festivals. IT celebrates Liguria’s fishing heritage. The star attraction is the enormous frying pan. It’s over four meters wide—used to cook thousands of portions of freshly caught fish for festival-goers.

Visitors can watch as skilled fishermen prepare the feast, then enjoy their meal along the picturesque harbor. The event also includes live music, boat races, and fireworks, making it a lively seaside celebration.

Camogli, often overlooked in favor of nearby Portofino, is a gem worth exploring. With its colorful houses, car-free medieval old town, and stunning sea views, it’s the perfect place to enjoy an authentic slice of coastal Italy. A great way to check out the car-free town of Camogli and the surrounding towns is to go train hopping.

10. Infiorata Noto (Sicily, Italy): Mid May

The Infiorata Noto is a spectacular celebration where one street of this Sicilian town is transformed into an intricate carpet of flowers. Held every May, this is one of the spring festivals that sees artists create breathtaking floral mosaics using petals, seeds, and leaves.

Walking along Via Nicolaci, you’ll see stunning depictions of religious, historical, and artistic themes. The scent of fresh blossoms fills the air as the entire city comes together to celebrate beauty and tradition. This event is held from May 16 to May 20th, 2025, It includes concerts, a Baroque parade, and a parade of flag-wavers. Pop-up tents offer local Sicilian delicacies like cannoli and arancini.

A great 1-week itinerary would be picking one of the UNESCO towns of Noto, Ragusa Ibla, Modica or Scicli as a base. Then spend a few days exploring these 4 incredible baroque towns. Then head to Syracuse, staying on the island of Ortigia to enjoy the seaside and amazing Sicilian food. Fly out of Catania.

11. Cannes Film Festival (France): May

The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious spring festivals in the world, attracting celebrities, filmmakers, and cinephiles alike. Held annually in May (May 13 to 24, 2025), this glamorous event transforms the French Riviera into a hub of cinematic excellence, with red carpet premieres, exclusive parties, and an air of undeniable sophistication.

If you’re lucky enough to attend, you might catch a glimpse of A-list stars or even score a ticket to a screening at the Palais des Festivals.

While Cannes is known for its luxury, you don’t have to be a Hollywood insider to enjoy the festival. Many films are screened for the public on the Plage Macé beach, offering a unique way to experience world-class cinema under the stars. You can also buy tickets to selected films and shorts.

Beyond the festival, take time to explore Cannes’ charm—stroll along La Croisette, visit the Marché Forville for local delicacies, or head to Nice to take in some great shopping.

12. Sagra di Limone (Monterosso, Italy): May 17th

The Sagra di Limone, or Lemon Festival, in Monterosso al Mare is a fragrant and flavorful tribute to the citrus that thrives along the Ligurian coast. Held in mid-May, this is one of the best spring festivals for transforming a village into a sea of yellow, with lemon-themed decorations, artisanal products, and culinary delights.

Lemon-infused dishes take center stage, from lemon gelato to limoncello tastings. There’s also a scenic walking trail lined with lemon trees, offering breathtaking views of the Cinque Terre coastline.

For a truly immersive experience, join a local cooking class to learn how to make traditional Ligurian lemon-based dishes. Monterosso, with its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches, is an ideal spot to relax after the festival.

13. Feast of San Giorgio (Ragusa Ibla, Italy): May 23rd to 25th

The Feast of San Giorgio (Saint George) in Ragusa Ibla is one of Sicily’s most spectacular religious festivals. Celebrated in late May, this grand event honors Saint George, the patron saint of Ragusa, with deep-rooted traditions, breathtaking processions, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

The highlight of this one of the spring festivals is the grand procession, where the gilded statue of Saint George and Holy Ark are carried through the winding, baroque streets of Ragusa Ibla. Accompanied by 2 marching bands and thousands of devotees, it’s a beautiful religious procession to watch.

Visitors to Ragusa Ibla during the festival will also be enchanted by the town’s baroque beauty. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ragusa is known for its stunning architecture, charming alleys, and historic churches. The festival provides a perfect excuse to wander through its picturesque streets, sip on local wines, and embrace the magic of Sicilian life. For a great 1 week itinerary fly into Catania, and head to Siracusa for a couple of days. Then work you way across the island, spending time in the hilltop towns of Noto, Scicli and Modica.

14. Sagra della Focaccia, (Recco, Italy): May 25th

Recco’s Sagra della Focaccia is a celebration of one of Italy’s most beloved breads: Ligurian focaccia. Held on May 25th, 2025, this festival has been drawing food lovers since 1955. You’ll want to indulge in the town’s famous focaccia col formaggio—thin, crispy layers filled with melted cheese.

Five different local bakers prepare enormous trays of focaccia, distributing slices for free 10 to noon in the morning and then again from 2:30 to 5:30 in the afternoon, across different squares in the town. The festival also has live music and DJs, making it an immersive culinary experience.

It’s a delicious and unique type of focaccia you’ll want to head to the Liguria region during spring festivals season to try it. The focaccia is a protected geographical indication (PGI). This means that it can only be made in the towns of Recco, Avegno, Sori and Camogli with specific ingredients and baked under strict regulations to guarantee the authenticity.

Recco, itself is not a charming coastal town, given that it was almost entirely bombed during WW2. Therefore, I would recommend staying in the more picturesque neighboring towns of Sori or Camolgi or Santa Margherita.

15. Venice Biennale (Italy): May to Nov

The Venice Biennale is a global celebration of contemporary art and culture, bringing together artists, critics, and enthusiasts from around the world. This internationally renowned exhibition, held every two years (May 10, 2025 to Nov 23, 2025) transforms Venice into a vibrant artistic playground with national pavilions and avant-garde installations.

One of the highlights of the Biennale is the Giardini, where various countries showcase their artists in dedicated pavilions. The Arsenale, a historic shipyard, also hosts expansive exhibitions featuring cutting-edge contemporary works. If you want an exclusive experience, opt for guided tours that offer behind-the-scenes insights and private viewings.

While in Venice, take a break from the Biennale’s intensity by sipping a spritz along the Grand Canal or go shopping at one of our favorite spots for Venetian artisan souvenirs. The festival provides the perfect excuse to rediscover the city’s enchanting beauty while immersing yourself in the latest artistic trends.

Spring Festivals During June

16. Verona Opera Festival (Italy): June – Sept.

As the birthplace of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is already one of the most romantic cities in the world, but during spring festivals season, it transforms into a cultural hotspot with its annual Verona Opera Festival. Held in the iconic Arena di Verona, from June through September, in a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater, this festival is an absolute treat for opera and music lovers alike. As the arena is open you’ll sit under the stars, surrounded by ancient stone walls, as the powerful voices of world-class opera singers fill the air.

In addition to the music, this opera venue is famed for its massive sets – costumed performers and live animals move back and forth across the stage. It’s a wonder to look at it, with so much action on the stage itself, you’ll debate what scenes to look at. Even if you’re not an opera fan, it’s something to behold. Tickets are booked months in advance, so it’s essential to check the dates as far in advance as possible and pre-buy your seats.

Visiting Verona

Beyond the performances, Verona itself is a dream. Wander through its charming streets, explore Juliet’s House, and indulge in some of Italy’s finest wines in the nearby Francia Corta region. For some dining options, check out our guide to magical restaurants and risottos in Verona. A great 1-week itinerary would include Verona, plus Lake Garda, Sirmione for an interesting island stay packed with history and great food, and Venice for amazing handcrafted souvenirs and canals or Milan for shopping, food, and the best cocktail bars in Milan for some amazing cocktails.

17. Mille Miglia (Italy): June 17-21, 2025

The Mille Miglia is an iconic vintage car race that stretches from Brescia to Rome and back, covering 1,000 kilometers through Italy’s most picturesque countryside. Unlike modern races, the Mille Miglia is a celebration of automotive history. To participate, the car has to have either raced in or be a model that raced in the Mille Miglia from 1927 to 1957. This makes for some spectacular car entries, as you’ll get to see classic Bugattis, Ferraris, and Mercedes.

What I love best about the Mille Miglia is that, unlike a classic car show, you get to see hundreds of vintage race cars driving by. So while it’s not one of the traditional spring festivals, we think it’s a unique cultural event worth inclusion. The route passes through a range of cobbled villages, rolling vineyards, and Renaissance cities of small, medium, and large size and has been dubbed “the most beautiful race in the world.” Spectators line up along the road to watch these vintage race cars whiz past. If you select the right city, you can even find sidewalk cafes to sit and enjoy a Spritz while watching the cars. It’s not just about speed—it’s a rolling museum of Italy’s love affair with cars.

Tips for Watching the Mille Miglia

Held annually, the route changes every year, but what stays consistent is that this is a 5-day race with 5 major checkpoints (one for the end of each day of the race). I recommend using one or more of the race checkpoints as your base to see the race (San Lazzaro di Savena, Rome, Milano Marittima, Parma, or Brescia). As the cars slow down and line up to stop at the checkpoint, you get to see them up close.

At Spritzience we found it fun to sit and have a Spritz at a cafe and wave to the cars passing by – the convertibles are especially neat as the drivers often have goggles and hats to deal with the wind. Then we moved to the checkpoint to see the cars stop. Many of the drivers will also park just past the checkpoint to polish a windshield or show the car off. It’s an opportunity to talk to the driver and find out about the history of their car.

For a great 1-week itinerary, and tips on how to chase the race, see our post on the Mille Miglia 2025.

18. Feast of San Ranieri (Italy): June

Each June, the city of Pisa glows with thousands of candlelit lanterns in honor of its patron saint, San Ranieri. This luminous spring festival transforms the Arno River into a magical spectacle as the city’s historic buildings are outlined in candlelight. The Luminara candles are lit early evening on June 16th, and followed by music and fireworks over the Arno River.

The celebrations continue on June 17th with a grand regatta, where teams row in a historic boat race reminiscent of Pisa’s medieval maritime glory.

For a fun 1 week itinerary, stay a few days in Pisa, using it as a base to explore Lucca and the famous marble mines of Carrara. Then head further into Tuscany to stay in UNESCO Pienza, known for its amazing architecture and wonderful food, as a base. Take day trips to explore the Val D’Orcia and with visits and wine tastings in Montepulciano and Montalcino.

19. Marchas Populares (Portugal): June

On June 12, 2025, the streets of Lisbon and Cascais will come alive with the Marchas Populares, a joyous celebration of Portugal’s patron saints. The festival is marked by colorful parades, traditional folk dances, and an endless supply of grilled sardines and vinho verde.

In Lisbon, locals dance the night away in the historic Alfama district. Couples often get married en masse in a tradition called the “Brides of Santo António,” adding a romantic touch to the festivities.

The coastal town of Cascais also comes alive for the Marchas Populares, a vibrant festival celebrating Santo António. A vibrant parade kicks of the night, where locals have unique and colorful costumes. The streets fill with music and dance, while locals grill sardines and serve sangria.

20. Luxembourg National Day, (Luxembourg): June 23rd

Luxembourg National Day, celebrated on June 23rd, is one of the joyous spring festivals filled with parades, concerts, and fireworks that illuminate the medieval skyline of the Grand Duchy. This national holiday officially honors the Grand Duke’s birthday, though the festivities truly center around national pride and community spirit.

The celebrations begin the evening before with a torchlight parade and lively street parties in the capital. Locals and visitors alike gather in the city center to enjoy open-air concerts, delicious Luxembourgish cuisine, and an electrifying atmosphere that lasts well into the night.

On the big day, a military parade, a Te Deum mass, and a spectacular fireworks show over the Pont Adolphe make this an unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect chance to immerse yourself in Luxembourg’s unique blend of history, culture, and modern sophistication.

21. Lyon Nuits de Fourvière (France): June & July

The Nuits de Fourvière festival in Lyon is a spectacular celebration of performing arts, featuring theater, music, dance, and circus acts in an ancient Roman amphitheater. Taking place throughout June and July, this event transforms Lyon into a cultural hub where world-class performances meet historic grandeur.

What makes Nuits de Fourvière special is its eclectic lineup, blending classical and contemporary acts. One night might feature electronic music, while the next brings a rock concert, soul music or an avant-garde dance troupe. Lyon itself is a joy to explore, especially its Old Town with its hidden passageways, known as traboules. Pair a festival night with a meal at a traditional bouchon, where you can savor local specialties like quenelles and Lyonnais sausage.

With all of the amazing Spring festivals to explore in Europe, you’re sure to find something unique to enjoy. Let us know in the comments section, have you been to any of these festivals? Do you have a favorite one?