March 1-14, Omizutori, Nara, Japan
Many rituals are performed on these dates at the Todaji Temple, but the most spectacular one has the monks running around the temple balcony holding 8m high burning torches. The last ritual is the drawing of water from the temple well at two in the morning. Visit www.jnto.go.jp
March 1-29, Pasifika Festival, Auckland
This event is a celebration of Polynesian culture. It started out as a three-day event showcasing the food, crafts and music of the Pacific Islands and has now grown into a month-long event that includes film screenings and fashion shows. Visit : www.celebratepasifika.com
March 6-16, Clown Festival, Brussels
Circus fans will love this festival. Escape Catastrophe has been involved in the training and promotion of circus and clown arts for quite a long time and their Launch Pad festival is a collection of innovative circus performances. This year they promise 20 original acts that should keep visitors enthralled. Visit : www.catastrophe.be
March 13-16, Vindelalvsdraget, Sweden
This is an endurance race of a different kind. The Vindelalvsdraget is a 400 km-long relay dog sleigh race. The race, along the frozen Vindeln River, is divided into 30 stages and is spread over four days. All kinds of skiers and dogs of any breed can participate. Visit : www.vindelalven.se
March 19-22, Art Dubai, UAE
If you are passionate about art or are just looking for a good investment you should head to Dubai for this event. Over 70 galleries from around the world will showcase some of the best contemporary paintings and sculptures during this festival. Visit : www.artdubai.ae
March 23, The Burning of Judas, Venezuela
Held in many cities and towns of the country, the burning of effigies of Judas is an almost cathartic experience for the locals. In Caracas, the capital, the festival takes on political overtones, with the effigies representing tragic events of villains of the year past. Visit : www.venezuelatuya.com
March 24, Easter Egg Rolling, England
The Egg Rolling competition is just one of the many egg-centric events held on the occasion of Easter. Participants are supposed to roll a hard-boiled egg down a hill and the egg reaches the bottom first, unbroken, is declared the winner. The Shotover Park hosts Oxford’s own egg-rolling event and it is a great place to spend a spring day with the kids. Don’t forget to take a painted egg along. Visit :www.visitoxford.org
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