2026 Festivals and Events – Updates and Last Min Options 

9th January 2026

2026 Festivals and Events – Updates and Last Min Options 

Featuring Festivals Calendar – Info, dates, availability, offers and last min deals on 2026 Festivals and Events Tours

Good morning from Best Value Tours, England where we are excited to feature today in conjunction with our sister-site Backpacker Tours, great information and updates on our Festivals and Events Calendar

More from Best Value Tours – Stonehenge, UK/Ireland, European, Worldwide and much more Contact details below and do shout, we are happy to help with any questions – WhatsApp Email  Contact Us.

Featuring Festivals Calendar – Info, dates, availability, offers and last min deals on 2026 Festivals and Events Tours

Featuring Festivals Calendar – Info, dates, availability, offers and last min deals on 2026 Festivals and Events Tours

January

27th January 2026 6 Day Up Helly Aa Viking Fire Festival Shetland 

Up Helly Aa is the undisputed highlight of the tour. As darkness falls, Lerwick is transformed by the glow of hundreds of flaming torches carried by costumed Vikings known as Guizers. Led by the Guizer Jarl, the torchlit procession moves through the streets in a powerful display of pageantry, music, and tradition.

February

13th February 2026 6 Day Rio de Janeiro Carnival Experience

Experience the rhythm, colour, and nonstop energy of Rio de Janeiro during the world’s most famous celebration. This immersive six-day adventure places you at the heart of Carnival, combining iconic sightseeing, legendary parties, cultural discovery, and ample free time to explore the city your way.

13th February 2026 Sitges Carnival From Barcelona

Join the original and best Barcelona to Sitges Carnival trip! Get ready for winter’s craziest party, rolling with the biggest crew. Skip the public transport crowds, by traveling on our private buses. Plus, our pre-party is absolutely legendary! We never miss a party, so for Sitges Carnival, we charter a bus for you, load it with sangria, fancy dress, and face paint, then head straight into Spain’s Mardi Gras.

Escape the winter chill at the Atlantic’s hottest party. Carnival’s are celebrated globally, with Sitges standing out as a premier destination. Just 40 minutes from Barcelona, Sitges Carnival draws 250,000 people to this charming coastal town. It’s your ultimate chance to go absolutely wild and embrace every temptation. This is your moment to dress up, and go all out with sequins, feathers, body paint, glitter or even a mask!

March

15th March 2026 – 4 Day Dublin St Patrick’s Celebrations

Begin your unforgettable St Patrick’s adventure by meeting your fellow travellers in central London before boarding a luxury air-conditioned coach. As you leave the city behind, enjoy the changing landscapes of England and Wales en route to the ferry crossing over the Irish Sea. Arriving in Dublin, alive with St Patrick’s Day excitement, you’ll check into the stylish Mespil Hotel (or similar), perfectly located for easy access to the celebrations. The evening is yours to explore the buzzing streets, join the festivities and perhaps enjoy your first Guinness of the trip.

St Patrick’s Day itself. Wake to Ireland’s biggest celebration as the city bursts into colour with parades, costumes, music and a joyful atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Join the street party, dance among the sea of green and soak up the unforgettable energy only Dublin can deliver.

April

17th April to 10th May 2026 – Springfest Munich, Germany

An unforgettable adventure at Springfest in Munich. This incredible festival, known locally as Frühlingsfest, presents a fantastic alternative to the larger Oktoberfest. It traditionally takes place during April and May, offering a delightful seasonal experience. Attendees can enjoy traditional German beers, savour delicious local food, and experience thrilling fairground rides. Oompah bands play lively, traditional music throughout the festival grounds. Springfest offers a slightly more intimate and local feel. Yet it promises just as much fun and excitement for all visitor

May

24th May 2026 – 9 Day Bushfire Festival – Malkerns Valley, Eswatini with Cape Town and Kruger National Park

Experience the very best of Southern Africa on an unforgettable nine-day journey that blends iconic landscapes, incredible wildlife, vibrant cities, and an internationally celebrated music festival. This tour is designed for travellers who want adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments, all wrapped into one perfectly paced itinerary. From the moment you arrive, every day delivers a new highlight, creating a seamless mix of exploration, excitement, and relaxation.

Your journey takes you to Eswatini for the grand finale: three unforgettable nights at the iconic Bushfire Festival.

June

26th to 30th June 2026 – San Vino Wine Fight Festival, Spain

Known locally as “La Batalla de Vino de Haro,”. The San Vino Wine Fight is your chance to experience one of the world’s great red wine regions in a truly unique way. Prepare to be drenched from head to toe in wine that. While this wine does not meet the region’s top-tier standards, it certainly won’t go to waste!

This experience includes entry into the battle and a comfortable stay in our camping accommodations. Complete with sleeping mats and sleeping bags. Enjoy an open bar serving beer, wine, and sangria. Also a delicious daily brunch featuring a cooked breakfast buffet and bottomless mimosas.  The guides will show you the ropes. Plus you’ll get a welcome local cheese and wine tasting and of course plenty of red wine too.

18th to 20th June 2026 – Sonar Festival

Three days of nonstop partying have made it one of Europe’s most famous festivals. They wear stylish sunglasses and flip-flops to enjoy Sonar’s many artists in Barcelona’s sun.
Sonar Festival includes a stay at a beautiful beachfront hostel, hearty breakfast and dinner daily, best of Barcelona walking tour, either a Spanish Cooking Class, party pack or boat party, crazy pre-game drink deals and discounts for wild nights out, nightly guest list club entry, plus access to a variety of activities to add on, such as Sonar festival tickets, bike tours, paintballing, Barcelona Beer Bike, waterpark parties, jet-skiing, go karting, kayak and snorkelling and of course the legendary Barcelona Boat Parties!

For one of the biggest seasonal highlights, this Stonehenge Summer Solstice 2026 planning guide covers everything you need to prepare.

July

4th to 15th July 2026 – Pamplona Bull Run, Spain

The Pamplona Bull Run is the highlight, but imagine a city-wide celebration. A truly unforgettable sangria-soaked street party bursting with infectious energy. That’s exactly what awaits you at San Fermín. The air pulsates with live music, renowned DJs play late into the night and the sky erupts with dazzling fireworks. Beyond the spectacle, indulge in an abundance of delicious food, from traditional tapas to hearty local specialities. All contributing to an atmosphere of sheer Spanish good times!

9th to 13th July 2026 – Bilbao BBK Live Music Festival

Every year, in the hills of Bilbao, the Basque Country’s biggest city, people from all corners of the globe gather for three days of music, merrymaking, friendship, and dancing! Experience over 60 international and local acts alongside vibrant Basque culture.

At Bilbao BBK Live, your accommodation is camping, and we’ll supply all the gear for a comfortable setup, including a twin-share tent, camping mats, and sleeping bags.

10th to 17th July 2026 – Semana Grande Festival

Semana Grande translates into ‘The Big Week’ and that’s exactly what it is! A week of massive street parties with loads of concerts, from rock to pop and classical to jazz, in the picturesque San Sebastian in the Basque country. Crazy festivities, and fireworks, its the biggest party in San Sebastian, Spain.

23rd to 30th July 2026 – Les Fetes de Bayonne Festival

Experience carnival parades, impressive drumming displays (tamborradas), Basque sports, and traditional music and dance. Enjoy nightly concerts and fireworks. You can also dive into French culture by joining the world bell pepper omelette championship at the local market!

August

25th to 27th August 2026 – La Tomatina Festival 3 Days

Prepare yourself for the most exhilarating and deliciously messy adventure of your life! La Tomatina is calling, inviting you to dive headfirst into Spain’s iconic and undoubtedly most fun food fight. This isn’t just an event; it’s a global phenomenon, a true bucket-list experience that annually transforms the quaint Spanish town of Buñol into a vibrant red spectacle. Imagine yourself amidst 20,000 eager participants, all united by one joyous purpose: to enthusiastically hurl over 120 tonnes of ripe, squishy tomatoes at friends, foes, and friendly strangers.

The origins of La Tomatina run deep, with the spirited tomato-throwing tradition dating back to at least 1944. What started as a spontaneous street brawl has blossomed into an internationally renowned festival, drawing enthusiastic tomato warriors from every corner of the world. It’s an hour of pure, unadulterated chaotic joy, an experience so unique it’s hard to put into words – it truly is the most fun you can have with your food!

7th August 2026 – Sziget Festival Road Trip for 10 Days

Europe, you throw a great music event! Budapest’s Island of Freedom takeover of Sziget is our current favourite. The music, art, performances, and forest moods will woo you. To enhance the experience, we start the party in Berlin a few days early and visit Prague and Vienna before heading to Hungary.

We’ll spend two nights in Berlin getting to know this colourful city and our new team. The Berlin Wall ruins are the most intriguing of our classic sights. Our local guide will lead you on a historical walking tour of 20th-century Berlin, including Hitler’s bunker and the Holocaust Memorial. The hungry traveller can find everything from Checkpoint Charlie to hidden gems in Berlin’s side alleyways. Our Alternative Berlin walking tour will take us to all the hipster spots.

September / October

19th September to 4th October 2026 Oktoberfest

8 Day Road Trip to Oktoberfest in Germany, Touring Holland and Belgium

Get ready for the ultimate Oktoberfest road trip, packed with iconic cities, unforgettable beer culture, and nonstop good times as you journey from London to Munich with an epic crew. This multi-country adventure is designed for travellers who want to combine Europe’s must-see destinations with the world’s most legendary festival, all while soaking up local flavours, history, and vibrant nightlife along the way.

The journey kicks off in London before crossing the Channel via Dover and Calais, setting the tone for a fast-paced European escape to Germanies awesome Oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest for 4 Days

Geared up for the biggest beer festival? A place with only as many beers as infectious energy? Get your dirndl or lederhosen ready for our Oktoberfest journey to Munich, Germany. A squad of 18-35s will visit Munich’s prominent landmarks, historic locations, and attractive suburbs during the world-famous beer festival for parties, pigs, and playgrounds.

On day one of your Munich Oktoberfest vacation, after welcome at our hotel, we’ll take a city orientation, where you may buy a dirndl or lederhosen to dress like the locals. Get informed with these facts: Check your list as you visit the 14 main beer tents, the largest of which holds 11,000 partygoers.

Oktoberfest Festival, Munich

Imagine yourself at Oktoberfest, the world’s largest folk festival in Munich, Germany. You’re surrounded by millions, soaking in an unparalleled celebration of Bavarian culture. Traditional music fills the air. Find yourself fully immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the famous beer halls, truly feeling the heart of this global phenomenon.

Contact Us

Please see below some of previous ‘Helpful Posts’

from Backpacker Tours and our sister-site Best Value Tours

12 Day Classic Highlights of Britain and Ireland Tour

Discover the captivating charm and rich history of the British Isles and Ireland on our immersive 12-day “Britain and Ireland Tour”. This enchanting journey, starting and ending in the vibrant city of London, takes you through 26 diverse cities across four remarkable countries: England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Prepare to be swept away by breathtaking landscapes, iconic landmarks, and a treasure trove of cultural experiences.

7 Day Tour of the Best x5 European Countries Destinations

An unforgettable 7-day journey across the heart of Europe. From the charming canals of Amsterdam to the iconic boulevards of Paris. This meticulously crafted tour immerses you in the diverse cultures, picturesque landscapes and rich histories of the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and France. Promising a week packed with iconic sights and memorable experiences.

11 Day Indulgence of Pakistan from Lahore to Islamabad plus the Magnificent Passu Glacier

Welcome to Pakistan, a land of ancient civilizations, dramatic mountain landscapes, and warm hospitality. Your journey begins in Lahore, the cultural heart of the country, where Mughal-era monuments, vibrant bazaars, and rich culinary traditions set the tone for the adventure ahead. Explore the historic Walled City, marvel at the grandeur of the Badshahi Mosque, and experience the patriotic spectacle of the Wagah Border ceremony before enjoying local flavors at the iconic Food Street.

7 Day Relaxed Walking Tour of the Wine Vinieris of Burgundy

This immersive seven-day journey through Burgundy invites you to experience one of France’s most celebrated regions through its landscapes, history, and extraordinary food and wine culture. Beginning in Dijon, the historic heart of Burgundy, you’ll be welcomed by your Experience Officer and fellow travellers before settling into the rhythm of local life. Dijon’s UNESCO-listed centre, renowned mustard, cassis liqueur, and rich culinary traditions set the tone for a week of discovery.

Scottish Collection: Featuring – From Edinburgh Loch Lomond, Trossachs, Sterling Castle, Balmaha and Aberfoyle for Lunch

Striking Hilltop Fort the Magnificent Sterling Castle

Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle

Magnificent, Majestic Warwick Castle at Christmas

Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds and Warwick Castle Day Tour

Charming Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare

Windsor, Stonehenge, Lacock and Bath with Lunch in Historic Pub

Stonehenge and Extended Bath with Flexible Entrance Options and Family Discounts

Featuring – Escorted Day Tour, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and Fast Tracked Louvre

Windsor, Oxford and Stonehenge – Day Tour | Best Value Tours

Grounds of Windsor Castle, the splendour of Windsor Great Park – see wild Deer on your festive visit

The Making of Harry Potter

 Stunning Cotswolds, with Lunch in Historic Inn

From Edinburgh to Fictional Harry Potters Hogwarts at Alnwick Castle and Northumberland Coast with Bamburgh

Alnwick Castle Northumberland, fictional Hogwarts Harry Potter

Stonehenge Inner Circle Tours 2025 and 2026

For a truly unforgettable experience, the Stonehenge Inner Circle Tour is an absolute must to unlock the magic of this mystical and ancient monument, with 1000’s of years of fascinating and much varied history, from the Druids to the Romans, to modern day and everything in between. An exclusive inner circle or also know as private access visit, offers rare access inside the world’s most famous prehistoric monument, which only a few privilege visitors get to enjoy each year.

On our inner circle tours you will be accompanied by an expert Stonehenge Guide who will bring the stones to life for you. Show you and explain the phenomenal ancient mathematical accuracy of the calculations made. How astonishing our ancient ancestors were able to align the vast Sarsen stones and not so small Blue Stones, to all but perfection alignment for; various alignment throughout the astronomical calendar with the sun and moon, setting and rising.

A quite remarkable achievement with the resources 2000 years when the current version of a monument on that site stands. A small part of the 5000 year history at this site of monuments and celebrations. All consumed into the magic the stones hold and that can truly feel as part of the memorable inner circle experience, come see for yourself, it is real.

Stonehenge Inner Circle Calendar

The Stonehenge Inner Circle Summer is considered March to September and most inner circle tours run during that period. Due to ground conservation reasons, currently Stonehenge do not allow access tours in October or November each year. Although there is general talk with more modern conservation techniques this may change in the future and we will announce if that happens.

The inner circle tours are morning or evening (evening when available). There are only limited dates throughout the year when it is possible to be inside the stone circle for the actual sunrise or sunset. If that is an ambition for you, please contact us (contact details below) and we will help free of charge. The time slots most tours enjoy, just after sunrise or just before sunset are spectacular and the way the sun and the moon align with the sun and moon will all make sense, all brought to life by your entertaining and knowledgeable, Stonehenge Expert Guide.

Due to lack of daylight hours, the evening/sunset tours only run March until September, however there are a good amount of morning tours still available December to February. Christmas, there is no access Christmas Eve, Day or Boxing Day, New years Eve or Day.

A wonderous time of year and each year; 20th June Sunset and 21st Sunrise, the site becomes as it has been since ancient times, a place of celebration, worship, music, drum, pipes and much merriment. We offer two outstanding Solstice tours that include options for sunrise, sunset and much more, further details below and we cannot recommend more highly this joyous and invigorating experience.

In Preparation for and clear up after, the Summer Solstice Events, Stonehenge are unable to offer access 16th to 19th and 22nd to 30th June each year. Thus as you will imagine as is by then peak summer, the weeks or so before or after 16th to 30th June are the most in demand of the year and the most popular dates sell out rapidly after launch (expected later this week). If you would like any guidance or assistance with this please contact us (contact details below). We are happy to deal with any questions you have and this is a completely free service.

This still leaves many 100’s of inner circle tours that are available each year and we will be delighted to help you find (free of charge) you best and best Value option and again our contact details are below. We have been commended for outstanding customer service so feel free to contact our knowledgeable and friendly agents whom will be delighted to help with your Stonehenge questions.

Beyond closure dates that occur each year as set out above. English Heritage/Stonehenge occasionally allow filming or other events at Stonehenge, when again inner circle access is not possible. as example there were block dates for filming this year 22nd to 30th September. We have advance notice of such events or filming, so can help you in your holiday date planning. if the Stonehenge inner circle is a must do for you, it is wise to plan that element, before if possible you finalise your holiday dates.

Charming, Vibrant, Colourful and Musical. Various Morris Dancers groups most welcoming attend the Solstice adding much Joy.

Finally a note on prices, which so sorry are frustratingly not cheap, however they are nevertheless still exceptional value. If you extract out any individual entrance costs, the actual tour cost is quite small. Plus great value as luxury transport with free wi-fi and your expert guide are also included. So amazing value for which we promise, will be a memorable and maybe spiritual experience that many experience inside the mystic and mythical ancient stone circle. Come and feel it to believe it.

More randomly, there are occasions when Stonehenge allow filming and so forth, as example 22nd/30th September  this year, so no access were available then. if you would like some help planning your inner circle experience please do contact us, details below and it is a free service.

Whilst so sorry the inner circle tours are not cheap, they are nevertheless still exceptional value, as include all entrance fees. If you extract the attractions entrance fees which are all expensive, you will find the actual tour cost is amazing value. Not least as includes an expert Stonehenge Guide, who will bring the stones alive for you and explain the astonishing accuracy of the alignment of the sun and moon, sunrise and sunset with the stones. Genuinely magical and enchanting.

The regular inner circle tours only depart and return from London, there are no regional departures. So sorry we can only help with tours, if you want Stonehenge Inner Circle tickets only English Heritage will be able to help with that and sorry it is not possible to meet any of our tours en-route or at Stonehenge.

Best Value Tours – Our Collection of Stonehenge Inner Circle Tours

Stonehenge Inner Circle, Lacock and Bath | Best Value Tours

Morning Stonehenge Inner Circle Tour and Windsor | Best Value Tours

Stonehenge Evening Inner Circle Tour with Avebury | Best Value Tours

Stonehenge Inner Circle Sunset and Windsor Open Top Bus Tour | Best Value Tours

Stonehenge Morning Inner Circle Tour with Salisbury | Best Value Tours

Stonehenge Sunrise Inner Circle Tour with Lacock and Bath | Best Value Tours

Afternoon Stonehenge Inner Circle Tour with Windsor | Best Value Tours

Stonehenge Summer Solstice 

Stonehenge Summer Solstice, Lacock in the Cotswolds and Avebury Stone Circle | Best Value Tours

Stonehenge Summer Solstice Sunrise Express Tour | Best Value Tours

More Stonehenge Stonehenge Tours | Best Value Tours

Alternative regular Stonehenge Tours Stonehenge Tours | Best Value Tours

Small Group Stonehenge Tours Small Group Tours of England | Best Value Tours

Cruise Shore Transfers including Stonehenge Shore Excursions & Cruise Transfers | Best Value Tours

More Day Tours Day Tours | Best Value Tours

Scotland Day Tours Scotland Tours | Best Value Tour