The warm days of summer might seem a distant memory, but that doesn't mean you have to stay locked up until April. Enjoy a cultural experience at a music festival in Russia, or dazzle at the striking ice displays in Japan.
Music lovers
Winter Festival, Prague (2-7 Jan)
Treat yourself to a week of concerts, ballets and operas; all performed by the best talents Prague has to offer. The festival program includes ‘Don Giovanni’ by Mozart and boasts works from Shostakovich, Puccini and Tchaikovsky. Fill your evenings with music and ballet, and spend the days exploring the beautiful city for an unforgettable winter excursion.
International Winter Festival, St Petersburg (14-24 Dec)
Russia is known for its superb ballets, and the International Winter Festival in St Petersburg is sure to delight ballet enthusiasts as well as general revellers. With an immense repertoire some of the acts include a ballet adaption of ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ concerts by the Russian National Orchestra, as well as the St Petersburg Philharmonic, and music that will warm you in the cold Russian winter.
Keen on ice
Snow Festival, Sapporo, Japan (5-11 Feb)
The streets of Sapporo come alive during the international Snow Festival. In barely a week, the festival is packed with events such as the International Snow Statue contest, the Maruyama Zoo Snow Festival, and an international ski marathon. Admire the ice sculptures and try some of the events for yourself. With options for young and old this festival’s all inclusive atmosphere and nonstop entertainment is a must do on any Japan agenda.
Holiday fun
Winterfest, Glasgow (21 Nov-3 Jan)
Glasgow’s Winterfest incorporates holiday festivities and general winter fun into an extensive festival to see in 2010. Join in the Christmas spirit and sing carols in George Square. The highlight of the festival is the Hogamany, a massive outdoor concert perfect for ushering in the New Year.
Budapest Winter Festival, Budapest (3 Nov- 28 Feb)
Relaxation and entertainment are the main goals of the Budapest Winter Festival. The massive event includes classical concerts, historic plays, traditional ballets, a visit from the Finnish Santa Claus, and a Christmas festival with all the bells and whistles of the winter season. With such an impressive schedule, the first annual Budapest Winter Festival is sure treat to beat winter boredom.
Other great festivals:
The Ice Lantern Festival, Harbin, China (5 Jan-5 Feb)
Big Snow, Andorra (14-21 Mar)
Telus Ski and Snowboard Festival (16-25 Apr)
