BY THE WATER’S EDGE


From epic water fights and night- long cave raves to extravagant fruit-laden parades, these kooky events all make the most of the coast


Words: Zoe McIntyre


Fête du Citron, Menton, France FEBRUARY Locals in the French Riviera town of Menton have been cultivating citrus trees since the 16th century and, each February, they honour their beloved fruit with a two-week carnival. The entire town transforms into a surreal citrus wonderland, as giant sculptures fashioned from 150 tonnes of lemons and oranges are erected in the streets, depicting everything from sea creatures to historic monuments. As well as parades, there are visits to local producers and a host of citrus- centric dishes to try in Menton’s restaurants. At the festival’s end, any leftover lemons are turned into jam. fete-du-citron.com


26 NATIONALGEOGRAPHIC.COM/TRAVEL


Fiesta de la Candelaria, Puno, Peru FEBRUARY Set on the shores of Lake Titicaca, Peru’s Fiesta de la Candelaria is a blend of Indigenous rituals and traditions. During this two-week celebration, the town of Puno echoes with the competing sounds of folkloric bands who drum, dance, drink, sing and celebrate from morning until nightfall, when fireworks illuminate the skies. This is also a time of reverence, with homage paid to the Virgin of the Candelaria and Pachamama (Mother Earth). Festivities culminate with la diablada, the devil dance, performed by panpipe- playing dancers in Andean costumes and masks. peru.travel/en


Tremor, The Azores APRIL Crank up the sound system — there are few neighbours to disturb at this music festival on the island of São Miguel, far out in the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the Azores archipelago, the volcanic island’s untouched beauty feels in keeping with the festival’s underground, artsy vibe. The line-up includes both homegrown talent and experimental artists from abroad playing an eclectic medley of genres, from folk and jazz to psychedelic and rock. Performances and installations take place in unusual spots around the island, like churches and abandoned quarries, as well as beside thermal springs and volcanic lakes. tremor-pdl.com/en


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