Popular Indian and International Events in August 2017

The month of August ushers in festivities, not just in India, but in various parts of the world. Moreover, the best way to experience and enjoy a destination is to time your travel around a local festival or event. Here is a list of popular national and international events to watch out for in the month of August.

International Balloon Fiesta

When: 10-13 August 2017 | Where: Bristol, England | Entry: Free (parking charges applicable)

Let your excitement map the sky as you participate in the International Balloon Fiesta. If you are planning a family trip to Europe, time it around the Balloon Fiesta and witness the magic woven by over 150 balloons from across the world. After taking off from Ashton Court Estate in the morning, these colourful balloons continue to illuminate the skies till evening. The entry to the festival is free, but if you are driving down to the venue, do remember to purchase parking tickets from the Fiesta’s official website. When in Bristol, visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Educate and entertain yourself at Blaise Castle House Museum, and sample exotic flora and fauna at the Bristol Zoo.

Krishna Janmashtami

When: August 15, 2017 | Where: Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna, and join the Krishna Janmashtami celebrations across the country. The most elaborate celebration, which attracts tourists from across the world, takes place in Mathura, the birth place of Lord Krishna. The floral decoration at the main Krishna Temple, and the festive fervour of the town will leave you in complete awe. The International Society for Krishna Conscience (ISKCON) commemorates the day with day-long prayers and an offering of 108 varieties of prasadam to the deity.

Book Your Flight to Agra (nearest airport)

Summer Sonic

When: 19-20 August 2017 | Where: Japan | Entry: INR 14700 (Approx. for the 2-day festival)

Be a part of Japan's most prominent music fest—Summer Sonic, which takes place simultaneously in Tokyo and Osaka. The festival plays host to famous native Japanese and other global bands. This year’s leading performers are Liam Gallagher, Foo Fighters and Calvin Harris, amongst others. Both cities don a festive look as music lovers gather to celebrate this artistic extravaganza. And if you are a hard-core Rock fan, land in Japan on 11^th or 12^th August to be a part of the Rising Sun Rock Festival in Hokkaido.

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Madras Week

When: 20 - 27 August 2017 (Madras Day – 22 August) | Where: Chennai

This metropolis in Southern India may have been renamed Chennai, but its founding day is termed after its former name—Madras Day. The celebrations span across an entire week showcasing the rich socio-cultural and demographic wealth of the city. There is a plethora of activity and events, including food festivals, nature and heritage walks, exhibitions and cultural performances. Once limited to the main city, the event has now gained popularity among both national and International tourists.

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Total Solar Eclipse & Summer Salute Festival

When: 21 August 2017 | Where: Hopkinsville, Kentucky, USA | Entry: Free

Gear up to watch a complete solar eclipse as the moon overshadows the sun to reveal a ring of light at Hopkinsville, Kentucky, US—the best site to spot the corona and sample this celestial wonder. Though the eclipse will last only 2.40 minutes, the Summer Salute Festival timed around it will offer you a complete package of fun and entertainment. Hit the streets of Hopkinsville to sample delectable street food, watch live music performances, and enjoy several games.

Pop-Kultur (Berlin Music Week)

23 - 25 August 2017 | Where: Berlin

Unlike other festivals, which bring artists together to celebrate various forms of music, Berlin Music Week popularly known as Pop-Kultur, is an annual government-funded event focusing on future forms of music. Here, musicians from varied genres come under one roof to share the stage, and churn out experimental music of a different league. During August, Belin witnesses a host of events apart from Pop-Kultur, including international festivals of beer and dance, as well as special museum nights.

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Ganesh Chaturthi

When: 24 August – 5 September 2017 | Where: Mumbai

Mumbai, also known as the business capital of India, brims with festivity as every nook and corner adorns a spiritual look with Ganesh Chaturthi. As per Hindu mythology, Ganesh Chaturthi marks the presence of Lord Ganesha on Earth, over a span of 10 days. During the festival, larger-than-life-sized idols of Lord Ganesha are installed in pandals, both in neighbourhoods for community celebrations, and individual homes to usher in good luck and prosperity. These idols are then immersed in the sea to mark the return of the deity. This is the best time of the year to visit Mumbai, as the energy is infectious.

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Does that give you enough inspiration to plan your next getaway?