Although we’re still on the run-up to the Christmas holidays, it’s the perfect time to have a look ahead into the next year and see what top European events will be taking place in early 2016.

Germany

The Bavarian city of Munich may be more renowned for its world-famous Oktoberfest, but for two weeks in April the Spring Festival will provide the perfect reason for visiting this enchanting city. The festival features many rides, ferries, markets and family activities in the Theresienwiese area, and of course there will be plenty of locally-brewed beer to welcome the warmer weather.

Great Britain

Those looking to celebrate England’s Viking heritage could do worse than visit the historic city of York in February where the Jorvik Viking Festival provides a series of informative talks and battle reenactments. Spring also marks the point where the country’s racing season really gets underway with the Cheltenham Gold Cup that is previewed at the Bookies.com site along with all of the latest racing news and odds for this most traditional of horse races.

France

If you ever needed another reason to visit the Cote d’Azur, then Nice hosts its annual carnival between 12 and 26 February. The Nice Carnival features a magnificent parade with eighteen floats working their way through the huge crowds that line the magnificent Promenade des Anglais. And with thousands of musicians and dancers joining in the celebrations, it’s the perfect way to experience this deeply atmospheric city.

The Netherlands

Famed for their ability to cultivate beautiful flowers, the people of the Netherlands get together to celebrate National Tulip Day in Amsterdam on 16 January. For one day, this fun-loving city gets covered with the colourful blooms of this flower and the public are encouraged to pick a tulip from the specially constructed garden at Dam Square in the afternoon.

Spain

Few cities are as atmospheric as that of Seville, and the months of April are the perfect time to visit before it becomes too hot. Seville’s April Fair marks another great reason to visit the charming city in this time as there are an array of colourful parades, extravagant flamenco costumes and a celebration of Seville’s nightlife that lasts well on into the night.

Ireland

And finally, those looking to warm themselves in the depths of winter should definitely attend Dublin’s Temple Bar Trad. For four nights at the end of January, this iconic venue in the heart of Ireland’s capital provides a wonderfully evocative dose of Irish traditional music along with plenty of Guinness.