Toss a rainbow of coloured powder into the air in a celebration of spring alongside the locals at the Holi Festival in India. Marvel at the flower-filled floats at the Nice Carnival in France. Hear the crash of drums, fireworks, and blaring pipes of a world-class performance at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland.

Whether you are visiting a destination for the first or fifth time, experiences like these at a special event during your tour makes for an even bigger “Wow!” Celebrating at a local festival is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture, connect with the locals, and add new excitement to a getaway.

Plus, it’s easier than you think. Our travel experts know the area and these special events well, so you can rest easy knowing you won’t miss a thing. We cover all the details – from securing tickets, to getting to and from the event – so all you need to do is enjoy.

Holi Festival, India

Experience the Holi Festival (pictured above) – the Hindu “festival of colour,” a celebration of spring, fertility, love, and the triumph of good over evil. Each March, locals and visitors unite to create a kaleidoscope of colour right in the streets of India.

You’ll join people from all around India and the world in throwing powdered colour and being drenched in a rainbow of coloured water in uninterrupted revelry. The tradition is not as much for any religious purpose as other holiday rituals are, but rather for pure enjoyment.

For centuries, Holi has remained a joyous occasion that is celebrated in almost every part of the country. Jaipur hosts one of the most exciting events. See India and the Hindu culture in a new light – this vibrant event is not to be missed.

Collette Tours:

India’s Treasures featuring Holi Festival

Mysteries of India featuring Holi Festival

Nice Carnival, France

Be swept up by the humming energy of this jubilant fête (party) at one of the most famous carnivals in the world: the Nice Carnival.

This colourful event is one of the oldest and most famous carnival events in the world, much like Brazil’s and Spain’s. Hundreds of thousands of people flock to the coast of the French Riviera in February to witness this spectacle of festivity and joy that dates back to the 13th century.

With a different theme every year, each carnival brings a unique twist to the holiday. Watch as the night is transformed by an array of colours, elaborately costumed dancers and towering floats during the Parade of Lights. And don’t miss The Battle of the Flowers, local artisan stands, and fireworks.

Collette Tours:

French Impressions featuring Nice Carnival

Spotlight on the French Riviera featuring Nice Carnival

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Scotland

The artful crashing of drums, blare of pipes, and stage movement makes the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo one of the world’s most famous. The British Armed Forces lead this royal military performance with precision, attracting visitors from all over the world to Scotland’s capital city.

The British Army has a proud history of its Tattoo, dating back 70 years. Today, its audience takes in a spectacular display of colour, music, and light at the regal Edinburgh Castle Esplanade every August.

The excitement continues with battle re-enactments, fireworks, traditional cultural dancers, and a thrilling finale of massed pipes and drums. The performance closes each night with a lone piper playing traditional sounds from the castle ramparts.

With the British Army at the core of it all, civilian musicians and dancers join the show as well. The Tattoo also tours around the world, performing at festival and other international Tattoos.

Collette Tours:

Exploring Scotland & Ireland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

British Landscapes featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Discover featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

From the once-a-decade Oberammergau Passion Play in Germany, to the blooming Tulip River Cruise along Dutch waterways, you will love these Collette tours centered around amazing worldwide events. Visit www.collette.com/specialevents for more.

For reservations or to book, visit www.collette.com or call 800.468.5955.

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