The Ultimate Summer Guide
From street parades to epic music festivals—here's to an eventful summer 2025
4 min read
Summer in Europe isn’t just about sunbathing and sightseeing—it’s a non-stop celebration of music, culture and pure energy! From legendary street parties to world-famous music festivals, the continent comes alive with events that turn cities into playgrounds for locals and travellers alike. Whether you’re dancing under the stars in Budapest, raising a beer stein in Munich, or running through Berlin’s historic streets, there’s an event for every kind of adventurer. We’ve handpicked our favourites in a summer calendar that will guarantee you experiences to remember.
Ready for it? Here are the festivals and events you will not want to miss this summer.
Feria de Abril, Seville
The Feria de Abril in Seville is a full-blown, high-energy extravaganza where the city swaps its usual elegance for a week of non-stop dancing, endless tapas and rebujito (sherry mixed with lemonade—dangerously refreshing).
Expect dazzling flamenco dresses, horse parades and casetas (private party tents) where Sevillanos show off their best moves until sunrise. It’s like stepping into a postcard—if that postcard had live music, unlimited churros and a serious lack of sleep.
When?
6 – 11 May 2025
Eurovision Song Contest, Basel
Switzerland is about to swap its mountain serenity for glitter, drama and power ballads! The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 will turn the serene city of Basel into a neon-lit stage for electrifying performances, outrageous costumes and unforgettable anthems.
Fans from across Europe (and beyond) will descend upon Basel, waving flags, debating vocal ranges and embracing the glorious chaos of Europe’s most extravagant music competition.
Expect high notes, even higher heels and at least one performance that makes you question reality. It’s Eurovision—where the only rule is that there are no rules (except, of course, the ones about jury votes and televoting drama).
When?
13 – 17 May 2025
Primavera Sounds, Barcelona
Barcelona is turning up the volume! Primavera Sound 2025 will once again take over the city with a genre-blending lineup, sea breezes and a crowd that knows every lyric by heart.
From indie darlings to electronic beats and rock legends, the festival serves up musical magic against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean. Expect long nights, short naps and enough unforgettable moments to keep you buzzing long after the last encore. Discover the full lineup of artists performing at Primavera Sound Barcelona 2025 here.
Did you know? Primavera Sound started back in 2001 as a small alternative music festival and has since grown into one of Europe’s biggest and most diverse music events. In 2022, it made history by being the first major European festival with a gender-balanced lineup.
When?
4 – 8 June 2025
Festas de São João, Porto
Get ready to party Porto-style at the Festas de São João! Every June, the city turns into one big, joyful street party, where the air is thick with the smell of grilled sardines and the sound of music fills every corner. Locals armed with plastic hammers will whack their friends with gleeful abandon, while everyone else dances in the streets under a sky lit by fireworks.
From the Douro River to the smallest alleyway, the whole city is alive with energy, making it the perfect place for a night of chaos, laughter and memories that’ll last a lifetime. Just remember—don’t take the hammer hits too personally!
When?
23 – 24 June 2025
Madrid Pride
Hold onto your rainbow flags, folks, because Madrid Pride is back in 2025, and it’s set to be a spectacle you won’t want to miss! Spanning from June 27 to July 6, this vibrant celebration attracts over 2 million people from around the globe, making it one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ events.
The main event, the Pride Parade on Saturday, July 5, kicks off at 7:00 p.m. Expect a dazzling procession of 50 colourful floats, party buses and lively walking groups, all cruising from Atocha to Plaza de Colón. It’s a moving sea of rainbows that’ll make you want to dance in the streets.
Leading up to the parade, the city buzzes with a plethora of events, including the High Heel Race on July 3, where participants sprint in stilettos—talk about putting the ‘run’ in runway! Plus, the Mr. Gay Pride Spain contest on July 4 showcases some serious charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent.
Madrid’s Chueca district, the heart of the LGBTQ+ community, comes alive with street parties, concerts and a palpable sense of freedom and joy. Whether you’re there to march, party, or simply soak in the love, Madrid Pride offers an unforgettable experience that solidifies its status as a must-visit event in Europe’s cultural calendar.
When?
27 June – 6 July 2025
Lollapalooza, Berlin
Lollapalooza Berlin is celebrating a decade of legendary performances and the 2025 edition promises to be bigger and better than ever! Get ready for Justin Timberlake, j-hope from BTS, Gracie Abrams, RAYE and Benson Boone bringing all the feels, while Armin van Buuren and Brutalismus 3000 will keep the party going all night long. K-pop fans, IVE is also hitting the stage with iconic sounds you won’t want to miss!
With art, food trucks and a vibe as diverse as Berlin itself, this isn’t just a festival—it’s a full-on celebration of music and culture. Ready to dance till dawn? Find the lineup here.
When?
12 – 13 July 2025
Bilbao BBK Live
Nestled in the hills above Bilbao, Bilbao BBK Live offers an unforgettable blend of music and stunning views. This festival brings together rock, indie and electronic acts with a relaxed vibe, allowing you to enjoy top performances by day and explore the city’s nightlife by night. It’s the perfect mix of nature, music and Basque charm. Schedule your timetable and enjoy some really good music.
When?
10 – 12 July 2025
Sziget, Budapest
This isn’t just a music festival—it’s a week-long island escape packed with non-stop party energy! Set on Óbuda Island in the Danube, Sziget brings together world-class artists, art installations and a crowd that’s here to party from sunrise to sunrise. Expect everything from massive headliners to hidden gems (lineup), all mixed with a free-spirited vibe that makes this festival truly one of a kind. With music, culture, and beachside chill zones, Sziget is the ultimate summer adventure—just don’t forget to sleep… at least once!
When?
6 – 11 August 2025
Marathon, Berlin
The Berlin Marathon is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of endurance, spirit and the thrill of the finish line! Running through the heart of one of Europe’s coolest cities, this iconic marathon attracts top athletes and everyday runners alike. With cheering crowds, historic landmarks and an unbeatable atmosphere, the Berlin Marathon is a bucket-list event for any runner.
Whether you’re racing or spectating, the energy of this fast-paced race will have you crossing the finish line with a smile (and maybe a PB!).
When?
21 September 2025
La Mercè, Barcelona
La Mercè in Barcelona is a whirlwind of color, culture and pure celebration! Held every September, this festival honors the city’s patron saint with parades, fireworks, human towers and music that fills the streets. From the iconic castells (human towers) to the dazzling fire-breathing correfoc (Catalan for “fire run”, a traditional firework parade with devils), La Mercè brings Barcelona’s traditions to life in the most thrilling way.
It’s a non-stop party, where locals and visitors come together to dance, eat, and celebrate Barcelona’s unique spirit—there’s no better time to experience the city’s vibrant energy!
When?
20 – 24 September 2025
Oktoberfest, Munich
‘Next year, we’re going’? And then your never went, right? This is you sign to make it happen. Oktoberfest in Munich is the ultimate beer-fueled extravaganza! Every autumn, the city transforms into a wonderland of giant beer tents, traditional Bavarian outfits and endless cheers of Prost!
Expect massive steins of beer, hearty Bavarian food and a lively mix of locals and visitors singing along to oompah bands (brass bands playing traditional German folk music). Whether you’re here for the rides, the roasted almonds, or just the unbeatable party atmosphere, Oktoberfest is an experience that’s as fun as it is delicious. Just remember: pace yourself—the beer may be served by the litre.
When?
20 September – 5 October 2025
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