Valencia, Spain: Las Fallas de Valencia
March 2 – 19
The town is getting ready, it’s been preparing for a year now! Spain’s biggest ritual celebration is here - Las Fallas de Velencia ignites a flaming Spring (literally!). The festival pays homage to St Joseph (the patron saint of carpenters). And as a mark of appreciation, the city transforms into an arcade of delicately detailed figures made from wood and paper mâché lining up the streets of Valencia. On the last day, these huge statues (ninots) are burned for a final climax of this wild fiesta.
www.fallasfromvalencia.com
 

Maastricht, Netherlands: The European Fine Art Fair
March 9 – 18
Art is what accentuates a place. It adds life, elicits emotions, and mirrors a person’s taste. When you are trying to add a unique piece to your collection - whether it’s an antique chair or a Picasso painting - a connoisseur would tell you that the TEFAF MAASTRICHT is the exhibit to visit. The fair carries an intriguing collection of 20th century art from Europe and the Americas showcased by the most prominent galleries and art dealers.
www.tefaf.com
 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Chemical Music Festival
March 10
If you are a party hopper or just like to have a good time, this is the place to let loose to the beat of the music: One day, four locations and an electronica driven theme. A talented group of DJs spin from 8 PM until the first sign of daybreak. Experience distinctive sounds inspired from all around the world. Prepare for an eruption of emotions - they didn’t name it “chemical” for nothing.
www.chemicalmusic.com
 

Marrakech, Morocco: Andalusian Days Festival
March 15 – April 15
Discover a unique culture, and re-live an old era in a captivating place like Morocco. For a whole month, a reminiscence of Andalusian heritage is portrayed in musical events, theatrical shows, cultural lectures, exhibitions of art and old handwriting, fashion and jewelry shows…just to mention a few. The festival introduces visitors to the Islamic civilization and its true elements which are still misinterpreted by many.
www.morocco.com
 

Hong Kong, China: Hong Kong International Film Festival
March 20 – April 11
An exquisite selection of movies has been chosen, and everyone is anticipating the opening night. Hong Kong is hosting its 31st international film festival and the Asian Film Awards. Some of the best entrants are low budget, independent flicks that thanks to such film festivals are getting recognized and being shown in front of selective audiences and critics. So whether it’s in the mountains of Utah or in the most cosmopolitan city in Asia, it is about more than just the premieres. It’s also about the parties, the after parties and the celebrities…oh yeah and the movies!
www.hkiff.org.hk