Festivals & Events
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Top Festivals
Germany
MTV Europe Music Awards
5 November 2009 in Berlin
Not only was Berlin the site of the very first Europe Music Awards back in 1994, but 2009 also marks the 20th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. What better way to celebrate such a historic symbol of freedom than with a night of amazing music and winners that are freely chosen by music fans.
MTV Europe Music Awards
5 November 2009 in Berlin
Not only was Berlin the site of the very first Europe Music Awards back in 1994, but 2009 also marks the 20th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. What better way to celebrate such a historic symbol of freedom than with a night of amazing music and winners that are freely chosen by music fans.
Thailand
Surin Elephant Round-up
21-22 November 2009 in Surin
Elephant lovers come from around the globe to witness this extraordinary display. About 100 trained elephants give shows of football, tug-of-war between elephants and men, log-pulling skills and a spectacular parade of elephants outfitted for ancient warfare.
Surin Elephant Round-up
21-22 November 2009 in Surin
Elephant lovers come from around the globe to witness this extraordinary display. About 100 trained elephants give shows of football, tug-of-war between elephants and men, log-pulling skills and a spectacular parade of elephants outfitted for ancient warfare.
United States
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
26 November 2009 in New York
In 2009, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will march down a new route. After 82 years of parading down Broadway, Macy's is moving the whole parade to a new route along 7th Avenue. Organizers say you'll have the best views on Central Park West between 61st and 72nd Streets.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
26 November 2009 in New York
In 2009, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will march down a new route. After 82 years of parading down Broadway, Macy's is moving the whole parade to a new route along 7th Avenue. Organizers say you'll have the best views on Central Park West between 61st and 72nd Streets.
Egypt
Cairo International Film Festival, 20-30 November 2009, in Cairo
Egypt is regarded as the 'Hollywood of the Middle East' and has a strong influence on cinema in the Arab world. Last year the festival honours the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with movies falling under the banner of 'dignity and justice for all'.
Cairo International Film Festival, 20-30 November 2009, in Cairo
Egypt is regarded as the 'Hollywood of the Middle East' and has a strong influence on cinema in the Arab world. Last year the festival honours the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with movies falling under the banner of 'dignity and justice for all'.
South Africa
Ficksburg Cherry Festival, 19-21 November 2009, in Ficksburg
This small town produces 95% of German's annual cherry harvest. The festival celebrates the year's crop with events such horse shows, flower shows, beauty pageants and a fun run. It ends with a carnival parade and firework display.
Ficksburg Cherry Festival, 19-21 November 2009, in Ficksburg
This small town produces 95% of German's annual cherry harvest. The festival celebrates the year's crop with events such horse shows, flower shows, beauty pageants and a fun run. It ends with a carnival parade and firework display.
Hong Kong
Lan Kwai Fong Street Carnival/ SoHo Wine & Dine Carnival, 6-8 November 2009, in Hong Kong
Two signature events - Lan Kwai Fong Street Carnival and SoHo Wine and Dine Carnival - are part of the greater Hong Kong Food and Wine Year 2009 that celebrate the city's gastronomic diversity. The event kicks off on Friday evening, 6 November but Saturday afternoon is really when the party gets started at around 1pm.
Lan Kwai Fong Street Carnival/ SoHo Wine & Dine Carnival, 6-8 November 2009, in Hong Kong
Two signature events - Lan Kwai Fong Street Carnival and SoHo Wine and Dine Carnival - are part of the greater Hong Kong Food and Wine Year 2009 that celebrate the city's gastronomic diversity. The event kicks off on Friday evening, 6 November but Saturday afternoon is really when the party gets started at around 1pm.
Hong Kong Open Golf Championships, 12-15 November 2009, in Hong Kong
Played on the Hong Kong Golf Club course at Fanling, the Hong Kong Open Golf Championship is the territory's longest-running professional sporting event. The total prize money amounts to a massive US$2.5 million.
Played on the Hong Kong Golf Club course at Fanling, the Hong Kong Open Golf Championship is the territory's longest-running professional sporting event. The total prize money amounts to a massive US$2.5 million.
India
Pushkar Camel Fair, 30 October to 2 November 2009, in Pushkar
The lakeside town of Pushkar comes to life for this extraordinary event. Camels are traded between the desert people, but most people come for the camel racing which takes place amidst singing and dancing.
Pushkar Camel Fair, 30 October to 2 November 2009, in Pushkar
The lakeside town of Pushkar comes to life for this extraordinary event. Camels are traded between the desert people, but most people come for the camel racing which takes place amidst singing and dancing.
Japan
The November Basho, 15-29 November 2009, in Fukuoka
If you would like to watch top-class Sumo wrestling, head for this event. One of the year's six Grand Tournaments, it attracts the world's top wrestlers and takes place at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center. Here you will be able to view a Yokuzuna (grand champion) in action. The best seats are at ringside.
The November Basho, 15-29 November 2009, in Fukuoka
If you would like to watch top-class Sumo wrestling, head for this event. One of the year's six Grand Tournaments, it attracts the world's top wrestlers and takes place at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center. Here you will be able to view a Yokuzuna (grand champion) in action. The best seats are at ringside.
Korea
Seoul International Computer Music Festival (SICMF), 29 November to 3 December 2009, in Seoul.
Every year over 100 composers from various countries submit their works for the festival, and about 20 pieces among them are chosen and performed at the festival. This year organisers have also invited special composers and performers to the festival including DEGEM, CCRMA and Meta Duo.
Seoul International Computer Music Festival (SICMF), 29 November to 3 December 2009, in Seoul.
Every year over 100 composers from various countries submit their works for the festival, and about 20 pieces among them are chosen and performed at the festival. This year organisers have also invited special composers and performers to the festival including DEGEM, CCRMA and Meta Duo.
Malaysia
Genting International Magic Festival, 2009 DATES NOT AVAILABLE November 2008, in Genting Highlands.
This innovative event sees the largest gathering of magicians and illusionists in South East Asia, which display all their mind-boggling tricks. It is held at the enormous Gentling casino and entertainment complex near Kuala Lumpur.
Genting International Magic Festival, 2009 DATES NOT AVAILABLE November 2008, in Genting Highlands.
This innovative event sees the largest gathering of magicians and illusionists in South East Asia, which display all their mind-boggling tricks. It is held at the enormous Gentling casino and entertainment complex near Kuala Lumpur.
Philippines
Higantes Festival, 22-23 November 2009, in Angono.
This festival is held in honour of San Clemente, the patron saint of fishermen, and named after massive paper Mache puppets used in the procession through the town's streets. The march is led by the image of the saint, carried by local fishermen, and ends in a huge water fight.
Higantes Festival, 22-23 November 2009, in Angono.
This festival is held in honour of San Clemente, the patron saint of fishermen, and named after massive paper Mache puppets used in the procession through the town's streets. The march is led by the image of the saint, carried by local fishermen, and ends in a huge water fight.
Singapore
Singapore River Regatta, 21-23 November 2009, in Singapore.
More than 100 teams with over 2000 participants take part in this annual dragon boat race on the Singapore River. Boats are beautifully decorated and thousands of spectators crowd the river banks to watch this colourful event.
Singapore River Regatta, 21-23 November 2009, in Singapore.
More than 100 teams with over 2000 participants take part in this annual dragon boat race on the Singapore River. Boats are beautifully decorated and thousands of spectators crowd the river banks to watch this colourful event.
Thailand
Loi Krathong Festival, 1-2 November 2009, nationwide.
This is one of Thailand's most appealing festivals. Floats decorated with banana leaves and flowers are launched on rivers and dams and lanterns are lit and set off into the sky. The main celebrations take place in the capital Bangkok and include an illuminated boat procession, lit-up buildings and historical sites.
Loi Krathong Festival, 1-2 November 2009, nationwide.
This is one of Thailand's most appealing festivals. Floats decorated with banana leaves and flowers are launched on rivers and dams and lanterns are lit and set off into the sky. The main celebrations take place in the capital Bangkok and include an illuminated boat procession, lit-up buildings and historical sites.
Surin Elephant Round-up, 21-22 November 2009, in Surin.
This internationally-famous event brings thousands of visitors to the Sri Narong Stadium, where some 100 trained elephants give shows of elephant football, tug-of-war between elephants and men, demonstrations of log-pulling skills and a spectacular parade of elephants outfitted for medieval warfare.
This internationally-famous event brings thousands of visitors to the Sri Narong Stadium, where some 100 trained elephants give shows of elephant football, tug-of-war between elephants and men, demonstrations of log-pulling skills and a spectacular parade of elephants outfitted for medieval warfare.
Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic Jazz Festival, 6-8 November 2009, in Cabarete.
The Dominican Republic is famous for meringue so it is no surprise that this festival attracts top Latin jazz performers. Concerts are held at Cabarete beach and the Gran Teatro del Cibao in Santiago. The main events take place on Cabarete Beach on Friday and Saturday nights, when entry is free.
Dominican Republic Jazz Festival, 6-8 November 2009, in Cabarete.
The Dominican Republic is famous for meringue so it is no surprise that this festival attracts top Latin jazz performers. Concerts are held at Cabarete beach and the Gran Teatro del Cibao in Santiago. The main events take place on Cabarete Beach on Friday and Saturday nights, when entry is free.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica 12-15 November 2009, in Montezuma.
Costa Rica's surfing hotspot seems an unlikely venue for a film festival, but it has gained a huge following. A number of international films are shown, but just as popular are the beach parties, street parties and after-parties.
Costa Rica 12-15 November 2009, in Montezuma.
Costa Rica's surfing hotspot seems an unlikely venue for a film festival, but it has gained a huge following. A number of international films are shown, but just as popular are the beach parties, street parties and after-parties.
Austria
Vienna Christmas Market, 20 November - 26 December 2009, in Vienna.
This huge Christmas market is held in the square in front of Vienna's city hall (Rathausplatz). Held for more than 700 years, you can buy treats such as cotton candy, glazed fruits and baked apples, as well as many unique handicrafts.
Vienna Christmas Market, 20 November - 26 December 2009, in Vienna.
This huge Christmas market is held in the square in front of Vienna's city hall (Rathausplatz). Held for more than 700 years, you can buy treats such as cotton candy, glazed fruits and baked apples, as well as many unique handicrafts.
Belgium
Bruges Christmas Market, 20 November 2009 to 3 January 2010, in Bruges.
Few markets are as traditionally beautiful as this one, located around an open-air ice rink on the main square of Bruges. Colourful lights illuminate festive stalls crammed with Christmas goodies, including chocolates, sweets and decorations.
Bruges Christmas Market, 20 November 2009 to 3 January 2010, in Bruges.
Few markets are as traditionally beautiful as this one, located around an open-air ice rink on the main square of Bruges. Colourful lights illuminate festive stalls crammed with Christmas goodies, including chocolates, sweets and decorations.
England
MTV Europe Music Awards, 5 November 2009 in Berlin.
Not only was Berlin the site of the very first Europe Music Awards back in 1994, but 2009 also marks the 20th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. What better way to celebrate such a historic symbol of freedom than with a night of amazing music and winners that are freely chosen by music fans.
MTV Europe Music Awards, 5 November 2009 in Berlin.
Not only was Berlin the site of the very first Europe Music Awards back in 1994, but 2009 also marks the 20th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. What better way to celebrate such a historic symbol of freedom than with a night of amazing music and winners that are freely chosen by music fans.
Lord Mayor's Fireworks Display, 14 November 2009, in London.
The Thames River explodes into a great firework display. It is in honour of the Lord Mayor, but it also remembers the attempt by Guy Fawkes to change history. The fireworks are sent off from barges in the river, while thousands line the banks and buildings with a view.
The Thames River explodes into a great firework display. It is in honour of the Lord Mayor, but it also remembers the attempt by Guy Fawkes to change history. The fireworks are sent off from barges in the river, while thousands line the banks and buildings with a view.
Premier League: Arsenal v Chelsea, 28 November 2009, in London. This is one of the Premier League’s most important marquee matches as Arsenal takes on the giants of Chelsea. The game takes place in the Gunner's Emirates Stadium, north London. If you want to experience top-class English football, this is a perfect opportunity.
France
Toulouse Antiques Fair, 7-15 November 2009, in Toulouse.
Every November, 300 dealers descend upon the lovely southern city of Toulouse and its Parc des Expositions for the Toulouse Antiques Fair. It has been voted France's premier event in its category by the trade press. The display is arranged in three halls - Prestige, Antiques and Arts and Crafts.
Toulouse Antiques Fair, 7-15 November 2009, in Toulouse.
Every November, 300 dealers descend upon the lovely southern city of Toulouse and its Parc des Expositions for the Toulouse Antiques Fair. It has been voted France's premier event in its category by the trade press. The display is arranged in three halls - Prestige, Antiques and Arts and Crafts.
Champs-Elysées Christmas Lights, 24 November to 31 December 2009, in Paris.
The Avenue des Champs-Elysées lights up for Christmas, heralding both the festive and commercial seasons. The view down this avenue is one of the most famous in the world - and nothing beats it in its Christmas finery.
The Avenue des Champs-Elysées lights up for Christmas, heralding both the festive and commercial seasons. The view down this avenue is one of the most famous in the world - and nothing beats it in its Christmas finery.
Germany
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, 27 November to 24 December 2009, in Nuremberg.
All major German cities have wonderful Christmas markets, but this is the one that tops them all. Around 200 candlelit stalls cater for shoppers and there are plenty of choir concerts and small performances. The atmospheric highlight is the cavalcade of children walking with colourful
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, 27 November to 24 December 2009, in Nuremberg.
All major German cities have wonderful Christmas markets, but this is the one that tops them all. Around 200 candlelit stalls cater for shoppers and there are plenty of choir concerts and small performances. The atmospheric highlight is the cavalcade of children walking with colourful
Norway
Oslo World Music Festival, 3-8 November 2009, in Oslo.
Venues throughout Oslo play host to performers from every corner of the globe during this event. Headliners in 2009 include Gilberto Gil, Khaled, Tony Allen, Tinariwen and BLK JKS as part of a line up that features more than 300 musical acts.
Oslo World Music Festival, 3-8 November 2009, in Oslo.
Venues throughout Oslo play host to performers from every corner of the globe during this event. Headliners in 2009 include Gilberto Gil, Khaled, Tony Allen, Tinariwen and BLK JKS as part of a line up that features more than 300 musical acts.
Portugal
Arte Lisboa, 18-23 November 2009, in Lisbon.
The country's premier art show at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL) brings works from 60 galleries around the world to Lisbon. All art enthusiasts are offered a glimpse into the international art scene and it is a great opportunity to network and view the latest up-and-coming talent.
Arte Lisboa, 18-23 November 2009, in Lisbon.
The country's premier art show at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL) brings works from 60 galleries around the world to Lisbon. All art enthusiasts are offered a glimpse into the international art scene and it is a great opportunity to network and view the latest up-and-coming talent.
Scotland
St Andrew's Festival, 27 -30 November 2009, in St Andrews.
Where better to celebrate St Andrew's Day (30 November) than with the people of the city named after him. Various events combine to celebrate the patron saint of Scotland, including concerts of traditional and classical music, exhibitions of arts, crafts and photography, fireworks and a food festival.
St Andrew's Festival, 27 -30 November 2009, in St Andrews.
Where better to celebrate St Andrew's Day (30 November) than with the people of the city named after him. Various events combine to celebrate the patron saint of Scotland, including concerts of traditional and classical music, exhibitions of arts, crafts and photography, fireworks and a food festival.
Spain
Barcelona International Jazz Festival, 22-29 November 2009, in Barcelona.
Say goodbye to summer with the sounds of big band, bebop, gospel and Latin-jazz. The event celebrates the best music in the jazz universe and has featured the likes of Al Green, Katie Melua, Mariza, the Herbie Hancock Sextet and the Matthew Herbert Big Band in past years.
Barcelona International Jazz Festival, 22-29 November 2009, in Barcelona.
Say goodbye to summer with the sounds of big band, bebop, gospel and Latin-jazz. The event celebrates the best music in the jazz universe and has featured the likes of Al Green, Katie Melua, Mariza, the Herbie Hancock Sextet and the Matthew Herbert Big Band in past years.
Canada
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, 6-156 November 2009, in Toronto.
Held at Toronto's Direct Energy Centre, this is a big agricultural and horticultural expo showcasing the finest in agricultural products, from sheep to home-made jam. Attractions include a fabulous garden fair with plants, flowers and horticultural gadgets. You can also view show jumping at the Royal Horse Show.
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, 6-156 November 2009, in Toronto.
Held at Toronto's Direct Energy Centre, this is a big agricultural and horticultural expo showcasing the finest in agricultural products, from sheep to home-made jam. Attractions include a fabulous garden fair with plants, flowers and horticultural gadgets. You can also view show jumping at the Royal Horse Show.
Mexico
Puerto Vallarta International Gourmet Festival, 12-22 November 2009, in Puerto Vallarta.
The best restaurants come together every year to create top notch gastronomic delights at this gourmet festival. International chefs are brought in for gourmet cooking classes, tastings and special dinners.
Puerto Vallarta International Gourmet Festival, 12-22 November 2009, in Puerto Vallarta.
The best restaurants come together every year to create top notch gastronomic delights at this gourmet festival. International chefs are brought in for gourmet cooking classes, tastings and special dinners.
United States
New York City Marathon, 1 November 2009, in New York.
Now the largest marathon in the world with over 90,000 applicants, the course passes through all of New York City's five boroughs: Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan, before finishing at Tavern on the Green in Central Park. Huge crowds line the route.
New York City Marathon, 1 November 2009, in New York.
Now the largest marathon in the world with over 90,000 applicants, the course passes through all of New York City's five boroughs: Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan, before finishing at Tavern on the Green in Central Park. Huge crowds line the route.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, 26 November 2009 in New York.
In 2009, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will march down a new route. After 82 years of parading down Broadway, Macy's is moving the whole parade to a new route along 7th Avenue. Organizers say you'll have the best views on Central Park West between 61st and 72nd Streets.
In 2009, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will march down a new route. After 82 years of parading down Broadway, Macy's is moving the whole parade to a new route along 7th Avenue. Organizers say you'll have the best views on Central Park West between 61st and 72nd Streets.
Argentina
Argentinean Open Polo Tournament, 22 November - 13 December 2009, in Buenos Aires. Held at the Campo Argentino de Polo en Palermo only over the weekends, this event was first held in 1893. It is seen as a great occasion to meet Argentinean movers and shakers and draws an international crowd.
Argentinean Open Polo Tournament, 22 November - 13 December 2009, in Buenos Aires. Held at the Campo Argentino de Polo en Palermo only over the weekends, this event was first held in 1893. It is seen as a great occasion to meet Argentinean movers and shakers and draws an international crowd.
Australia
Melbourne Cup, 3 November 2009, in Melbourne.
This is the biggest horse racing event in the southern hemisphere, and the richest horse race in the world. It captivates Australia, with virtually everyone layout a bet on the outcome. The race day is a big day for hats, as celebrities and punters jostle to be the best-dressed on the day.
Melbourne Cup, 3 November 2009, in Melbourne.
This is the biggest horse racing event in the southern hemisphere, and the richest horse race in the world. It captivates Australia, with virtually everyone layout a bet on the outcome. The race day is a big day for hats, as celebrities and punters jostle to be the best-dressed on the day.
New Zealand
Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, 28 November 2009, in Taupo.
The magnificent Lake Taupo is the setting for one of the world's largest fun bike events - the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, first held in 1977. Over 10,000 people are expected to take part. It is followed by a rip-roaring carnival with plenty of great prizes.
Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, 28 November 2009, in Taupo.
The magnificent Lake Taupo is the setting for one of the world's largest fun bike events - the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, first held in 1977. Over 10,000 people are expected to take part. It is followed by a rip-roaring carnival with plenty of great prizes.
Hong Kong
South Pacific Hotel Hong Kong is smack in the middle of the junction of the Wanchai business district and Causeway Bay. It gives visitors ease of access to shopping, dining, entertainment or commercial districts of the city via the Causeway Bay MTR station plus numerous bus and tram lines.
Rooms from only US$ 80 per night TAX AND SERVICE INCLUSIVE
Hong Kong
Lan Kwai Fong Hotel is set amongst the renowned dining and entertainment districts of SoHo and Lan Kwai Fong which are both within short walking distance. It was awarded 'Best Boutique Hotel in Asia' honours by Travel Weekly Asia Magazine and is close to MTR and tram stops plus the Star Ferry Terminals. Airport shuttle and free hotel shuttle bus service are provided.
Rooms from only US$ 183 per night TAX AND SERVICE INCLUSIVE
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