The month ushers in a season of unbridled celebration, where cities across continents throw open their streets, squares and screens for the world to join in. From centuries-old traditions to contemporary spectacles, culture spills into the open, inviting travellers in. Here are some of the most exciting celebrations to catch around the globe.
Venue: Theresienwiese, Munich. Dates: September 19, 2026 – October 4, 2026. The thrill begins long before the first Maß is raised, as Munich prepares to welcome the world to the 191st Oktoberfest, the largest folk festival on the planet. For 16 days, Theresienwiese turns into a whirl of grand beer tents, Bavarian music, hearty food and exhilarating fairground rides. The opening ceremony, when Munich’s mayor taps the first keg with the famous cry of ‘Ozapft is!’, is a spectacle in itself. Beyond the celebrations, travellers can soak up Munich’s unmistakable Bavarian character and put a tick off on their travel checklist.
Venue: Various locations across Barcelona, Spain. Dates: September 23, 2026 – September 27, 2026. The thrill of seeing an entire city turn into one giant celebration is what makes La Mercè such a special reason to visit Barcelona. Held in honour of the city’s patron saint, the festival fills streets and squares with concerts, human towers, giants and traditional Catalan celebrations. More than 100 concerts are planned across the 2026 edition, with artists from around the world adding a contemporary pulse to the festivities.
Venue: Various cinemas and cultural venues across Rio de Janeiro. Date: October 1, 2026 – October 11, 2026. The thrill of discovering a film before it becomes the next big talking point makes the Rio International Film Festival a tempting reason to visit Brazil. The festival brings premieres, competitive screenings, international selections, special screenings and conversations with filmmakers to cinemas across Rio. The 2026 edition opens with Rosebush Pruning, starring Callum Turner, Riley Keough and Elle Fanning. Between screenings, travellers can trade cinema seats for Rio’s beaches, viewpoints and lively neighbourhoods, for a full Brazilian escape.