HAMAMATSU FESTIVAL

May 3 to 5, Shizuoka, Japan

More than 100 kites will be flying over the Nakatajima Dunes, one of the three largest sand dunes in Japan next month as Shizuoka celebrates Hamamatsu. A tradition that dates back more than 450 years, the kite flying has its origins in the history of Hamamatsu Castle. Written in the Edo era, this describes how a large kite was flown for Yoshihiro, the oldest son of the Prince of Hikuma castle, at his birth. Today, kites are still flown at Hamamatsu when a baby boy is born. During the festival various events are held at two main venues each with their main attraction: the kite-flying battle at Nakatajima beach and the parade of palace floats downtown.

LOTUS LANTERN FESTIVAL

Seoul celebrates the Lord Buddha with the Lotus Lantern Festival. An eye-popping lantern parade, a Buddhist culture street fair and a traditional lantern exhibition are held in and around Jogyesa temple, Bongeunsa temple and the Cheonggye-cheon area. There’s also Zen meditation advice and practice under the guidance of Korean Buddhist monks. Visit http://www.LLF.or.kr.

GYMPIE SHOW

May 12 to 14, Queensland, Australia

More than a century old, the Gympie District Show has evolved into a great family event and a yearly ritual. It features Queensland Championship show jumping, events and competitions for horses, studs, prime and dairy cattle, dogs and goats. The event starts on the Thursday night with a high-powered fireworks display. Friday – People’s Day – boasts both the opening ceremony and the Grand Parade. Tons of events for all ages ensure that up to 40,000 people visit each year. See more at http://www.GympieShow.org.au.

FESTIVAL OF FOOLS

April 29 to May 2, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Head to Northern Ireland and have fun with the fools as Belfast hosts great street shows! The fun varies from curious walkabout characters to jugglers and around 100 circus acts, puppet shows, comedians and more. It’s the best free show in town. For the detailed programme, visit http://www.FoolsFestival.com.

CANNES INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

May 11 to 22, Cannes, France

Filmmakers might start their careers in Hollywood, but the Cannes Film Festival is where they’re made. This ritzy, increasingly competitive festival, where the fashion is just as important as the films, awards and winners, is one of the last of its kind. Visit Cannes from mid to late May, and rub shoulders with celebrities (and the paparazzi who stalk them) at the famed Cote d’Azur beach resort. Visit http://www.Festival-Cannes.fr/en.html.

WAISAK FESTIVAL

May 20, Yogyakata, Indonesia

Visit the Buddhist monument of Borobudur, and celebrate Waisak Festival aka Vesakha Day. Held on the night of the full moon in May, the religious festival draws many Buddhist pilgrims to the site. Ceremonial offerings are made such as fruit and flowers and thousands of candles, representing Buddha’s enlightenment are lit in the darkness. Processions are also held throughout Java.