Travel-Tips: Summer Festivals 2023

As the warmth of summer lingers and the vibrant energy of the city reaches its peak, there's no better time to immerse yourself in the eclectic urban festival scenes. From lively street parades to musical extravaganzas, we present an array of late summer festivals that are not only entertaining but also easy on the wallet.

LONDON

Notting Hill Carnival (27-28 August 2023)
Get ready to embrace the infectious rhythm of the Caribbean at the Notting Hill Carnival, Europe's largest street festival. Held annually over the August Bank Holiday weekend, this vibrant celebration showcases the rich cultural heritage of London's Caribbean community through dazzling costumes, pulsating music, and mouth-watering Caribbean cuisine.

Camden Fringe Festival (31 July - 27 August 2023):
For the theater and comedy lovers, the Camden Fringe Festival is a must-visit event. Showcasing emerging talent and established performers, this vibrant festival hosts a diverse range of performances across multiple venues throughout August. With shows ranging from drama to stand-up comedy, there's something to suit every taste.

Totally Thames Festival (1-30 September 2023)
Set against the stunning backdrop of the River Thames, Totally Thames is a month-long festival held in September. Explore a wide range of activities, from riverside art installations to guided river walks, showcasing the cultural and historical significance of the River Thames.

Open House London (6-17 September 2023)
Architecture enthusiasts rejoice during Open House London, a festival that grants access to hundreds of (usually restricted) buildings and landmarks across the city. Stroll through awe-inspiring structures, discover hidden gems, and learn about the city's architectural heritage during this captivating weekend event in September.

Check out our Wombat's City Hostel London.

 

MUNICH

Hands Off The Wall Festival (28-30 July 2023)
The world’s leading female graffiti artists arrive at Wombat's City Hostel Munich Werksviertel to leave their mark on the area. With over 300 applications, the festival management has selected 33 artists from Europe, the USA, Canada, South America, Africa and New Zealand. During the festival, they will transform Werksviertel and add their artworks to 25 different walls.

Theatron Musiksommer (27 July - 20 August 2023)
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Olympiapark, Theatron Musiksommer is a music festival that showcases a diverse range of genres, from rock and pop to jazz and reggae. With live performances by local and international artists, this open-air festival creates a vibrant atmosphere where music lovers can come together and celebrate in late August.

Corso Leopold (9-10 September 2023)
Corso Leopold is a neighborhood festival held in the vibrant Schwabing district. Celebrating local art, culture, and culinary delights, this lively event offers a diverse program of live music, street performances, art exhibitions, and food stalls. Experience the vibrant and bohemian atmosphere of Schwabing in early September as you immerse yourself in this charming festival.

See our two Wombat's City Hostels in Munich.

 

BUDAPEST

Sziget Festival (10-15 August 2023)
Considered one of Europe's largest music festivals, Sziget Festival offers an unforgettable experience in August. Located on the Óbuda Island, this week-long event attracts renowned international artists, hosting a diverse range of music genres. Explore multiple stages, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and participate in various activities, including art installations and workshops. Headlining this year are Billie Eilish and David Guetta!

St. Stephen’s Day in Budapest (18-20 August 2023)
The foundation of the Hungarian state more than 1000 years ago is celebrated with countless events. Festivities kick off with the spectacular fireworks on Friday - they can even be viewed from the Danube if you book a firework cruise. For all three days the Danube Bank in Buda (in front of the Várkert Bazár/Castle Bazaar) will be home to a Gastro Promenade. There will be live concerts on the green hills behind Buda Castle, in the park on Erzsébet Square and at the Jozsef Gruber Reservoir. The Fashion & Design Festival will also take place in the Whale building on the Danube bank in Pest.

Budapest Wine Festival (7-10 September 2023)
Raise your glass and savour the flavours of Hungary's renowned wines at the Budapest Wine Festival. Held in early September, this annual event takes place in the picturesque Buda Castle. Sample an impressive selection of wines from various regions, learn about winemaking traditions, and enjoy live music performances in a breathtaking setting.

Choose as your home base our City Hostel Budapest!

 

VIENNA

Film Festival at Rathausplatz (1 July - 3 September 2023)
Experience the magic of open-air cinema at the Film Festival at Rathausplatz, which runs throughout the summer. Set against the backdrop of Vienna's City Hall, this festival screens a wide range of international films, from timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces. You won’t be limited to popcorn – the Filmfestival is famous for its rich culinary offerings. This year, 26 experienced restaurateurs invite you on a culinary journey around the globe via the Rathausplatz!

Popfest (28-31 July 2023)
Beautiful scenery, extraordinary acts (over 50!) and endless bangers on the "Lake Stage" in front of the Karlskirche – all with free admission. The venue is less than 15 minutes’ walk from Wombat's City Hostel Vienna!

Impulsanz Wien (6 July – 6 August 2023)
ImPulsTanz - Vienna International Dance Festival was established in 1984 and has grown to become the biggest festival for modern dance and performance worldwide. Every summer, it offers a vastly varied schedule of performances, workshops, research initiatives, and musical acts (including free workshops and free events!).

 

LIVE AT WOMBAT’S

Last but not least, there is a music festival all year round at each Wombat’s hostel! Head to wombeats.com to check out the continuously updated concert program. The best part – entry is free!