AFRICA AND THE MIDDLE EAST
buzz across the world with its parties. It is an effortless culmination of music genres that are not-so-commercial. The last four days of summer are celebrated by grooving to authentic non-commercial music of the best genres like reggae, dubstep, hip hop — to name a few — that help festival-goers transcend beyond the music fed to us today. The festival takes place in an abandoned Roman fort in Stinjan near the Adriatic Sea, with Pula being the nearest airport. Areas of fun include The Moat, The Void, The Clearing, Mungo’s Arena, to name a few, with boat parties as a common activity that require pre-booked tickets as they sell out quickly.
GALWAY INTERNATIONAL OYSTER AND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL The city of Galway celebrates its rich annual oyster harvest with the Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival, held every year; this year being its 62nd. The festival can be traced back to 1954 when the first Oyster Festival Banquet was held with 34 attendees relishing dozens of oysters each. Today, the Irish and World Oyster Opening, “shucking”, championships is held annually, making the festival one of the most awaited social events of the year. Witnessing entertainment parades, feasting on seafood and relishing the famous Irish Stout are the highlights on every eventgoer’s to-do list.
OKTOBERFEST The 183rd Oktoberfest is to be held between September 17 and October 3 in the city of Munich. This tradition began on October 12, 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Prince Ludwig of Bavaria to Princess Therese of SaxonyHildburghausen. Thereafter, it gained popularity and is now celebrated year after year in honour of the inexplicable love for “liquid gold” and the Marrakesh, Morocco Sept 16-18 Dubai, UAE Sept 21-24 Hermanus, South Africa Sept 30 to Oct 2 OASIS FESTIVAL Oasis Festival is a calming experience as it ensures three days of de-stressing and relaxation. It is a perfect treatment to escape to, for tired nerves. Set to take place at The Source Hotel complex, the activities and sessions are carried out in the property’s rooms and villas itself. Other than the great line-up of artists, a schedule of three days lets you devour cuisines sourced from local eateries and restaurants, refresh with mint tea, calm your soul with yoga sessions, and treat the eyes with scenic views of the Atlas Mountains that are in close proximity.
DUBAI DANCE FESTIVAL The annual Dubai Dance Festival promises its attendees four days of crazy fun and excitement at the Dubai Marine Resort. Activities are planned in order to ensure everyone is up and moving: Stargate shows and dance animations, workshops of all dance styles and dance parties. A Zumba master class with world-class instructors and national and international shows are the latest additions to this year’s agenda. Visit the Dance Village to purchase dance accessories and shoes to groove to the music.
HERMANUS WHALE FESTIVAL As South Africa’s only Eco-Art fest, the Hermanus Festival helps people witness creatures of the sea with top local performers showcasing their talents and keeping the crowds enthralled throughout. In spite of being extravagant, this festival sticks to its purpose of being an educational and recreational one. Visitors learn about different species of whales, especially the Southern Right Whales who reside in the waters there. Whale watching is even more special during this season as the mammals come close to shore durng this month. The festival remains a favourite for locals as well as tourists.