There’s a whole world of amazing festivals to immerse yourself in – we’ve picked out 13 of our favourites. And should you decide on a favourite too, and you even decide to stay there, World First is here to help you with your currency transfers for, say, your property purchase.

In the meantime though, take a look at our 13 fab festivals around the world in 2016 – it may inspire you to do something different!

atiAti-Atihan, Kalibo, Phillipines – January 17-26
A vibrant mix of music, processions and dancing to the rhythm of drums that will make you feel like you’re at the Rio Carnival – and it’s all in honour of Santo Niño (infant Jesus).

Carnaval, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – February 5-9
The daddy of carnivals. Two million visitors a day for four days. Music, colourful costumes and massive parades are the order of the day at this unique, iconic and enormous carnival.

Battle of the Oranges, Ivrea, Italy – February 6-9
Take half a million kilograms of oranges, and throw them at each other. That pretty much sums up the Ivrea Battle of the Oranges, and they’ve been doing it since the 19th century.

Chinese New Year, China – February 8
All sorts of ways to celebrate, from Beijing’s temple fairs, with martial arts displays and lion & dragon dances, to Guangzhou’s flower fairs – with gorgeous floral displays and local music.

PyroNational Pyrotechnic Festival, Tultepec, Mexico – Feb 1-12 (TBC)
Who knew there was a patron saint of firework makers? Fans of fire, fireworks and illuminations will be in seventh heaven at this event in honour of John of God.

Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras, Sydney, Australia – March 5
So much going on, including a massive harbour party, drag races on Bondi Beach and the Mardi Gras Film Festival. A huge parade brings the curtain down on of one of the biggest festivals of its kind in the world.

Holi, Mumbai, India – March 23
Holi – the Festival of Colours – celebrates the start of spring. It’s fun and free, and starts with a Holika bonfire on the night before Holi. The next day is all about the paint – everywhere. Don’t think that you can just watch…

boiBoi Bumba, Parintins, Brazil – June 24-26
See this Brazilian folk theatrical tradition for yourself. Hear the toadas, talk to the locals and get completely immersed in buzz of the city. Local food and drink is waiting for you – like you need reminding…

Festival of San Fermin, Pamplona, Spain – July 6-14
Think of Pamplona and you probably think of the running of the bulls. Well that happens at 8am daily, but if you like fireworks and processions, colour and music, you’ll love this. A million Spaniards can’t be wrong!

Calgary Stampede, Calgary, Canada – July 8-17
Get your cowboy hat and boots at the ready and join the 100,000 or more that head to the Calgary Stampede every day. Sample a scorpion pizza (it’s got real bite!), and see the rodeo and concerts!

BurnBurning Man, Nevada, USA – August 28 – Sep 5
Before, it’s arid, cracked terrain. Then a city is ‘built’ by people who are ready to embrace the festival of art, parades and music. People who go aren’t just attending, they’re taking part – whether performing or creating some kind of art installation.

Diwali, India – October 9-16
Diwali – the festival of lights – is an important festival for Hindus and is India’s biggest festival. It’s also a feast for the senses, with great noise from fireworks and firecrackers. The candlelight everywhere makes Diwali warm and atmospheric.

Loi Krathong, Bangkok, Thailand – November 15
One seriously enchanting festival. People gather at rivers, lakes and canals to give thanks to the goddess of water. They decorate lotus shaped rafts with candles, flowers and incense before releasing them into the water. If your candle stays alight before it slips out of view, that’s supposed to bring you good luck.

Like the sound of these? There are more incredible festivals as part of our 101 Must-Do Global Events in 2016!

101 Morning Update