By Elizabeth Baker
Europe is a beautiful and cultured continent, offering dozens of attractions in hundreds of cities. Those traveling to Europe in October have a wide variety of events to choose from, but these activities are not worth missing.
Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany
Perhaps the most famous European event in October is Germany's famed Oktoberfest, a 16-week festival held annually in Munich, Germany. The festival begins in late September and runs through the beginning of October. Considered by many to be the world's largest fair, Oktoberfest draws more than six million people from around the world each year. Those in attendance celebrate the festival by drinking German beer, listening to German folk music and eating large amounts of food, including traditional German fare such as Hendl (chicken), Brezel (pretzel), Schweinebraten (roast pork), Weisswurst (white sausage), Steckerlfisch (fish on a stick), and Käsespätzle (cheesy noodles). The festival generally runs until the first Sunday in October, so this is something to attend in early October.
Festival D'Automne in Paris, France
The Festival D'Automne, or autumn festival, is held in Paris each year and celebrates the country's fine art, music, theater, dance and film. In 2009, the festival will be held from September 15 to December 19, so tourists traveling to France at any point in October will be able to attend. The 2009 events include photography and art shows, theater viewings, dance and acrobatic performances and sculpture openings. The events are held at different venues throughout the city, so check the official website for complete listings.
Eurochocolate in Perugia, Italy
The Eurochocolate festival is a celebration honoring the country's finest chocolatiers and the chocolates they make. Held annually in Perugia, Italy, the festival's events include chocolate tastings, performances of famous chocolatiers at work and gourmet meals that incorporate chocolate. Tourists may also purchase gourmet chocolate as souvenirs to bring home to family and friends.
About the Author:
Elizabeth Baker has been writing professionally since 2002, specializing in health, education, food and travel topics. Her work has appeared in "The Claremont Review," "The Bullet," "The Mercury" and "Positive Teen." Baker has a Bachelor of Arts in English and creative writing from Gettysburg College and is a graduate student in the University of Iowa's nonfiction writing program.
