What's Happening In Europe in August 2023?
If you’re planning to visit Europe this August, we’ve got some good news for you. This month is packed with events and festivals that you won't want to miss.
Don't let the summer heat keep you off your feet. August is the height of festivals and events in Europe. Spend your days enjoying new places, cultures and flavours by taking part in these amazing events.
2023 August Events in Europe
Swiss National Day | The Garda Jazz Festival | Fête du Lac Fireworks | Gemma Vintage Car Rally | Lech Classic Festival | Val Gardena Folklore Festival | Hinterglemm Farmer's Market | Laurentius Night | Kaiser Festival | Silvretta Ferwall March | Paznaun Market Day | Venice International Film Festival
Swiss National Day
Where: Switzerland
When: 1st August 2023
Every year, on August 1st, the Swiss celebrate their National Day. This is a national holiday with local festivities typically including speeches by prominent political or public figures.
Families gather together, have fun and make a big deal out of the holiday. Communities across Switzerland also celebrate the occasion with bonfires, fireworks, and parades. The day marks the foundation of the confederation and commemorates the creation of the federal council in 1848 under Napoleon I.
The Garda Jazz Festival
Where: Lake Garda, Italy
When: 31st July-13th August 2023
The Garda Jazz Festival is held on Lake Garda, right on the shores of the scenic lake. This year's event will run from August 1st to 14th 2022. During that time, the beautiful towns around Lake Garda will be filled with top-class live performances, intimate sessions in bars and pubs, and amazing jazz music!
La Fête du Lac
Where: Lake Annecy, France
When: 5th August 2023
Lake Annecy will sparkle once again with a spectacular fireworks display. This special show is a one-of-a-kind experience, and should not be missed. The show lasts 1 hour 10 minutes and features fireworks in rhythm with music, lights, and special effects.
16th Gemma Vintage Car Rally
Where: Saalbach & Hinterglemm, Austria
When: 5th August 2023
The 16th Gemma Vintage Car Rally is a great event for car enthusiasts. If you have a passion for rare vehicles, this is the place to be. You'll see true rarities and one-of-a-kind cars on display.
Lech Classic Festival
Where: Lech, Austria
When: 31st July - 6th August 2023
Enjoy classical sounds in alpine dream scenery, where the Lech Classic Festival will once again offer a great programme of international musicians.
Val Gardena Folklore Festival
Where: Town hall square, Selva Val Gardena, South Tyrol, Italy
When: 6th August 2023
If you enjoy traditional dress and customs, then consider a trip to the Dolomites this August. The Val Gardena Folklore Festival is the biggest festival in the three villages of Val Gardena.
The traditional costumes worn here are among the most beautiful and versatile of Alpine region. Val Gardena's traditional costumes are characterised by their elaborate decoration, which reflects the social status of the wearer.
41st Hinterglemm Farmer's Market
Where: Saalbach & Hinterglemm, Austria
When: 11th-13th August 2023
Hinterglemm Farmer’s Market is about more than just groceries: it's about the best food in town, live music, and homemade crafts. Enjoy a fun-filled weekend that features homemade foods from local farmers, listen to music on site, and watch a big parade featuring beautiful horse-drawn carriages.
Laurentius Night
Where: Lech, Austria
When: 12th August 2023
During the Laurentius night, many shooting stars and other celestial bodies can often be seen by looking up at the sky. Lech Zürs am Arlberg gives a special space to those interested, and invites them to experience it at the Rüfikopf mountain station.
An experienced astronomer will guide you through the planets and stars so that you can learn to identify them individually, as well as appreciate the mountain world at night in a completely new way.
Kaiser Festival
Where: St Gilgen, Austria
When: 18th August 2023
On August 18, the Kaiser Festival takes place in St. Gilgen, Austria, to honour Emperor Franz Josef, who spent many summers in Salzkammergut and visited Lake Wolfgangsee.
The event starts at the Boat station of St. Gilgen with the welcome of the paddle steamer, 'Emperor Franz Josef I'. Afterward, a festive procession goes through the town to Mozartplatz, followed by a music concert and dancing.
Silvretta Ferwall March
Where: Galtür, Austria
When: 19th August 2023
Galtür invites hikers to the 49th International Silvretta Ferwall March on 19th August 2023 for a day of exploring in the beautiful Silvretta. Participants can choose from four different routes, with varying difficulty levels.
Families with children of all ages will enjoy this wonderful event. The treasure hunt at the family route is really popular among little hikers, who are eager to get their hands on a silver or bronze medal.
For experienced hikers, the impressive mountain landscape of Ferwall and Silvretta, alpine flora, and fauna are all reasons to participate in this summer highlight of the Galtür.
Paznaun Market Day
Where: Ischgl, Austria
When: 26th August, 2023
The annual Market Day is a great opportunity to experience the Paznaun Valley. With live music by the Ischgl brass band and many fun activities, this community event is the perfect way to spend the weekend.
You'll also have the chance to enjoy the Paznaun Valley Alpine Cheese, with local dairy farmers, cheesemakers and vendors on hand with fresh produce and out-of-the-ordinary goods.
Venice International Film Festival
Where: Venice, Italy
When: 30th August - 9th September, 2023
The Venice International Film Festival welcomes the best of international cinema, with the added attraction of having its stars on hand. Movie stars, the paparazzi and furious bustle—the world’s oldest film festival offers film lovers a chance to see their favourite actors, actresses and directors on display.
Many film screenings are open to the public, with tickets available online. Competition films are likely to sell out quickly, so secure your tickets as soon as you can! Further details, including a full programme of screenings, are available on the official Biennale website.
