The world's best festivals, all throughout the year

Bookworms will be in heaven when the International Book Festival comes to Edinburgh. From fiction’s hottest rising stars to Booker prize-winners, more than 1,000 authors gather to discuss books at over 900 events including workshops, readings and signings. 10-26 Aug 2019

Raise a stein to the best beer festival in the world when Princess celebrates all things lager, ale, IPA and more onboard. Watch Bavarian dancers, listen to polka music, then have a go at an accordion and pretzel making. Runs onboard Sep-Oct

Whether dance, theatre, music or film is your passion, there’s entertainment to suit at the RomaEuropa Festival. More than 500 artists perform in over 20 locations across Rome in one of the most prestigious arts events in Europe. 17 Sep-24 Nov 2019

Cruising down the world’s most famous shortcut is certainly reason to celebrate, so Princess Cruises’ Panama Canal itineraries host their own festival onboard to mark the journey. Try ‘Mola’ arts and crafts, steel pan music classes, and show your moves at a Piazza party. Runs onboard Sep-May

Hong Kong is world-famous for its harbour lights and fireworks, but the displays during the Pulse Light Festival must be seen to be believed. With seasonal decorations, Christmas trees, lights at every turn, and an enormous carnival, festive cheer is guaranteed. 29 Nov 2019-24 Feb 2020†

Art lovers are spoilt for choice during Singapore Art Week when the city hosts over 100 fascinating workshops, gallery events, exhibitions and installations. Be sure to stroll through Little India where wall murals, film screenings and live music bring the history of this vibrant district to life. 11-19 Jan 2020

Mexico’s most colourful event honours the deceased with skeleton make-up, costumes and parades. Now you can sample the tradition onboard selected Princess itineraries. Enjoy face painting, flower making and a vivid variety show. Runs onboard Jan-Apr

Tuck into some of Australia’s best produce at Melbourne’s renowned food and wine festival, featuring tastings, culinary masterclasses and special dining offers. With everything from five-star dining to food trucks, this huge festival is the perfect introduction to this sprawling, friendly city that comes alive during March. 2020 dates to be confirmed

Get ready for the party of a lifetime onboard selected cruises with joyful Mardi Gras celebrations. Translated from French as ‘Fat Tuesday’, this is traditionally the last day of indulgence before Lent and we guarantee it will be one to remember. With flags flying high above the Piazza, you can join culinary demonstrations and percussion classes, wear colourful masks and dance to Zydeco. All without having to leave the ship. Runs onboard Jan-Apr

Each summer, the sun never fully sets in the upper northern hemisphere, casting an all-night glow known as midnight sun. St. Petersburg celebrates its radiant nights with a two-month festival of ballet, opera and classical music. After emerging from the theatre into startling daylight, wander the city’s streets and grab a Russian ice cream – known as morozhenoe. 2020 dates to be confirmed

There are few places as breathtaking as Alaska with its wide-open vistas, towering glaciers and awesome wildlife. Celebrate the trip of a lifetime on selected Alaska cruises with Klondike Days, as real Alaskans share tales of the indigenous Tinglit tribes. Learn the language of Alaska’s native clans, play the penny whistle and enjoy unmissable onboard cultural activities. Runs onboard Apr-Sep*

One of Japan’s biggest annual events, the Gion Matsuri was first held to pray for deliverance from the plague but is now one of the world’s best street parties. Locals join parades and floats dressed in colourful yukata robes and dine out on Kyoto’s best street food. Head to the Shinmachi and Muromachi areas for a glimpse of private treasures belonging to the city’s oldest families, which are displayed outside their traditional homes to mark the festival. 1-29 Jul 2020†

*2020 dates yet to be confirmed. †Dates are subject to change