According to TCS World Travel there are many vibrant Spring festivals not to be missed:
India
In India, the Hindu festival of Holi (Festival of Colours) takes place the day after the first full moon in March and is a euphoric celebration marking the beginning of Spring and the end of dull winter days. Participants (young and old) throw brightly coloured powder and water at each other and come together in the friendly chaos. Historically the festival honoured a good harvest and the fertility of the land.
Thailand
Held in April, the 3-day Songkran festival of water marks the beginning of the Thai New Year. The Thai people take to the streets and participate in a massive water fight, using super soakers and water balloons to soak each other… and don’t think you can escape if you are a tourist! Traditionally Songkran is a time to clean and reflect. Locals bathe Buddha statues with water and gift food to the monks.
Japan
In Spring, it is a national tradition for the Japanese to get together with friends and family under the magnificent beauty of the blossoming cherry trees (sakura) for a picnic. The Hanami (celebrations involving picnics or parties) are full of traditional food and drink. So popular is this tradition there is a “Cherry Blossom forecast” which is watched carefully by those planning Hanami as the blossom only lasts for 1 or 2 weeks – there is even an app so that you can keep a close eye on the blossom forecast!
The Netherlands
In mid to late April the magnificent annual flower parades (Bloemencorso) take place throughout the Netherlands and are a colourful sight to behold. The oldest and most famous parade takes place along a 25 mile route from Noordwijk to Haarlem. Thanks to millions of flowers (predominantly the famous tulip) and hundreds of volunteers, 20 huge floats and 30 lavishly decorated cars follow the route. Even the canal boats and bicycles of Amsterdam are decorated with flowers to celebrate the Bloemencorso.
If you have not experienced any of these amazing sights then they should be added to your bucket list immediately!
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