Summer has returned to most parts of the world, and wherever on the network you are headed, chances are there is something dazzling or delicious or both for you to experience. Here are 9 events and festivals you shouldn’t miss.
1. DOKfest München
What: The Munich International Documentary Film Festival aims to bring the best documentaries of the year to the big screen. The 33rd edition presents 154 films from 50 countries, including opening film Over the Limit, a behind-the-scenes look at Russian competitive sports via the life of gymnast Rita Mamun. Notably, the festival’s special focus section, DOK.female, highlights women-driven films such as Matangi / Maya / M.I.A., an intimate take on British rapper M.I.A.; and Ouaga Girls, about young women from Burkina Faso who learn to be car mechanics.
When: 2 to 13 May 2018
Where: Cinemas across Munich
How much: Tickets start from €7 (S$11)
2. Frieze Art Fair
What: One of the art world’s most anticipated fairs returns to New York with works from over 190 galleries across 30 countries. New at this year’s edition are Live, a selection of performances and interactive projects; and For Your Infotainment, a themed section that pays tribute to the important work of art dealer Hudson (he went by one name) and his gallery, Feature Inc.
When: 4 to 6 May 2018, preview days 2 to 3 May 2018
Where: Randall’s Island Park, New York
How much: Tickets start at US$48 (S$63) for one-day access, not inclusive of ferry to Randall’s Island, while tickets for themed tours start at US$23 (S$30). Purchase them here.
3. London Wine Week
What: Sip your way through pop-up wine bars, mingle with a glass of prosecco in hand and indulge in bespoke wine tasting flights created by some of London’s top sommeliers in this week-long festival across the city.
When: 14 to 20 May 2018
Where: The London Wine Week hub will be housed at Flat Iron Square in London Bridge, while participating bars are located in hip neighbourhoods like Spitalfields, Covent Garden and Shoreditch.
How much: Many events are free to enter, but purchasing a digital pass for £10 (S$18) will get you access to the aforementioned tasting flights and attractive deals in over 125 venues.
SEE ALSO: London’s coolest cocktail bars that only the locals know about
4. Auckland Writers Festival
What: Immerse yourself in stand-up poetry, literary theatre, readings and debates at this six-day festival involving 230 writers and thinkers from all over the world. Learn from luminaries like Norwegian writer Karl Ove Knausgaard and New York Times bestselling author of The Jane Austen Book Club, Karen Joy Fowler; listen to true stories told unscripted at Festival Gala Night; and check out Family Day for fun, kid-friendly performances and activities.
When: 15 to 20 May 2018
Where: Most events will be held at the Aotea Centre in Auckland.
How much: While over a third of events are free, prices for ticketed events range from NZ$20 to NZ$42 (S$19 to S$40).
5. Taste of Paris
What: There’s so much to see and do in the City of Lights, and one of the best ways to experience it is through your taste buds. At this culinary festival, you can sample gastronomic delights prepared by important Parisian restaurants like Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, meet top chefs in person at cooking demonstrations, and shop for a wide array of artisanal French produce.
When: 17 to 20 May 2018
Where: The Grand Palais, Paris
How much: Two types of tickets are available. The Découverte ticket (€20/S$32) grants you basic access to the festival, while the Premier ticket (€70/S$113) entitles you to VIP access and entry to the Champagne bar. Purchase them here.
6. Sanja Matsuri
What: The annual Sanja Matsuri festival in Tokyo is a boisterous affair that involves mikoshi (ornately decorated portable shrines) being paraded around the streets as a way of ushering in good fortune. It’s held in celebration of the three founders of Senso-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo.
When: 18 to 20 May 2018
Where: Asakusa Shrine & Senso-ji, Tokyo
How much: Free
7. 46th Istanbul Music Festival
What: Centred on the theme “Family Bonds”, Istanbul’s premier music festival hosts leading figures in classical music, such as famed Latvian-born Israeli cellist Mischa Maisky and his children Lily and Sascha. It also includes performances at culturally rich venues like the Hagia Irene Museum and the Grand Bazaar.
When: 23 May to 12 June 2018
Where: Various locations across Istanbul
How much: Tickets are priced between TRY 30 to 500 (S$10 to S$161). While the Weekend Classics concerts are free, though advanced registration is recommended. Purchase tickets here.
8. Vivid Sydney
What: Sydney never fails to put on a good show every winter. This spectacular annual event returns with more mesmerising light installations and projections, as well as a slew of music performances by big-name Australian and international acts such as Solange Knowles, Cat Power and St Vincent. Don’t miss the gorgeous artwork projected on the iconic Sydney Opera House at Circular Quay and the interactive light art sculptures around Darling Harbour and the Royal Botanic Garden.
When: 25 May to 16 June 2018
Where: Various locations across Sydney
How much: Most light shows are free, while tickets for music showcases, talks and masterclasses are available from the respective venues.
SEE ALSO: Cool things to do in Sydney with your family
9. Distortion
What: Copenhagen’s epic dance music extravaganza celebrates its 20th anniversary this year with daytime parties, underground club raves and a massive finale bash. DJs from all over Europe and UK will be spinning everything from hip hop to techno and house, so wear your comfiest shoes and expect to be on your feet from dawn to (after) dusk.
When: 30 May to 3 June 2018
Where: Various locations across Copenhagen, with most events happening at the festival site Distortion Ø.
How much: Tickets range from DKK300 (S$65) for a one-day pass to DKK550 (S$120) for a full event pass. You also have the option to camp.
To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
