"Dream, Explore, Conquer"

The M.U.S.T. SEE (EVENTS) List is a compilation of some of the world's most vibrant and exciting events from around the planet. Every Adventure Woman is always on the lookout for her next thrilling new adventure, and these attractions are sure to please. There is something here for every Adventure Addict. And, as always, if you have a M.U.S.T. SEE Event that should be on our list, but isn't, contact us with your suggestion. We love to hear from you! Dream to Dare…

Aintree Horse Race, Liverpool, England
www.aintree.co.uk
Why? Since 1839, the Grand National has become the most famous chase in the world. The 40-strong field of horses tackles thirty fences for one of the most, challenging, beautiful and athletically powerful horsing events on the planet.

Albuquerque Balloon Festival,
Albuquerque, New Mexico
www.balloonfiesta.com
Why? It is called a ballooning pilgrimage which delights all senses. There is something for everyone, but don't miss the Balloon Fiesta-which, with 700 balloons, it is the "largest ballooning event on Earth, the most photographed event on Earth, and the largest annual international event held in the United States." Up, up and away!

Bastille Day, Paris, France
www.french.about.com
Why? France's July 4th (on July 14th) celebrating their Independence with an enthusiastic show of patriotism. Parades and partying around town, and don't miss the spectacular fireworks display over the Eiffel Tower.

Bay to Breakers, San Francisco, California
www.baytobreakers.com
Why? One of the world's largest footraces and making the Guinness Book of World Records in 1986 with 110,000 participants; the Bay to Breakers run is an unforgettable event. You'll also find food, street vendors and music to keep you busy after the run. In 2007, elite runner, Edna Kilplagat became the first woman to cross the finish line before the men. Applause, applause!

The Boston Marathon, Boston, Massachusetts
www.bostonmarathon.org
Why? The world's oldest annual marathon attracts thousands of runners (over 20,000) and viewers (millions). It is one of the most prestigious road races in existence due to its longevity and entrance qualifications. Watch the elite field of runners go the distance (26 miles 385 yards) or qualify and run it yourself!

Bregenz Festival, Bregenz, Austria
www.Bregenzerfestspiele.com
Why? The month long festival spanning July and August is performed on the world's largest floating stage on Lake Constance. Top performers, excellent music and extraordinary productions make this festival worth the visit.

Burghley Horse Trials, Stamford, England
www.burghley-horse.co.uk
Why? This is about as good as it gets for equestrian competitions. Burghley, 'The Equestrian Social Event of the Year,' is the highest level three day event in Europe. Horse and rider compete at a Four Star Level, higher than the Olympics or the World Championships. Held of the bucolic grounds of Burghley House, this is an equestrian fan's dream.

Calgary Stampede, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
http://cs.calgarystampede.com/events/rodeo
Why? The "World's Toughest Rodeo" is by invitation only and includes six major events - Bareback, Bull Riding, Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc, Steer Wrestling and Tie-Down Roping. Also cowgirls and cowboys can also enjoy the amusment park rides, chuck wagon ciusine and Country Western concerts.

The Cartier Polo World Cup on Snow,
St. Moritz, Switzerland.
www.polostmoritz.com
Why? Twenty-five-years-old, the polo tournament on snow is as glamorous as they come. Beautiful horses combined with beautiful people make-up this fast-paced game of kings.

Chicago Blues Festival,
Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois
www.chicagobluesfestival.org
Why? It's the world's largest, free, jazz festival
and the Windy City's biggest music festival. On six stages over three days, the festival attracts over a half million people, and showcases some of the best blues talent in the world.

Cannes Film Festival, Cannes, France
www.festival-cannes.com
Why? This is the playground for the rich, powerful and glamorous. If you can't get tickets to any of the main screenings (there are also lesser screenings around Cannes at this time) then star gazing is an entertaining pastime. The stars come out for their screenings every evening and walk the red carpet waving to their adoring fans. If you want a closer peak, head out to Hotel du Cap (where the champagne flows and the palm trees grow). Things are pricey but very glitzy with Euro and American stars rubbing shoulders

Cinco de Mayo, Puebla, Mexico
www.mexonline.com/cinco-de-mayo.htm
Why? Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Although celebrated around the country of Mexico (and in the USA, as well) nothing matches the enthusiasm for the day as in the town where the victory was achieved.

Daytona 500, Daytona, Florida
www.daytona500.com
Why? Considered the "Great American Race," the Daytona 500 is the most prestigious, colorful and biggest auto race in the United States. It is also the official start of NASCAR (National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing).

Dublin Horse Show, Dublin, Ireland
www.dublinhorseshow.com
Why? Watch the best international show jumpers compete. There is something for everyone at the horse show; from over 300 vendors to a Lady's Day fashion competition. The spirit of the Irish can't be beat and the horses are spectacular.
Fantasy Fest, Key West, Florida
www.fantasyfest.net
Why? It is perhaps the craziest free-for-all of fun and decadency on the planet. Wear anything or nothing but body-paint. This is not for the shy or inhibited. But if you're looking for a party paradise you can't miss Key West's rum fandango in late October. Adults only advisory.

Fez Festival of World Sacred Music,
Fez, Morocco
www.travel-tomorocco.com
Why? The Fez Festival of World Scared Music brings together performers from around the planet to unite in peace and harmony through music. Fez, itself, is an amazing ancient city; full of markets and colorful flair.

Glastonbury Festival, Glastonbury, England
www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
Why? It's the world's largest Greenfield Music Festival. Set on almost 900 hundred acres of mythological significant land; you're sure to connect to your spiritual side. Glastonbury is a tented city (you bring your own) and this is a time to relax and embrace your 'Earth Mother' side among thousands of other chilling Green Goddesses. The winner of numerous awards, Glastonbury is an unforgettable music experience.

Glyndebourne Opera Festival, Lewes, England
www.glyndebourne.com
Why? One of the highlights of the British social season, the Glyndebourne Opera Festival is not to be missed. Set on the lawn of Gravetye Manor, the festivities includes a very proper English picnic (you can order one or bring your own) with plenty of wine and champagne. Dress is formal, but you dine on blankets or tables near the grazing cows and sheep of the manor. The opera follows after your picnic. A positively jolly good time!

Guinness Jazz Festival, Cork, Ireland
www.corkjazzfestival.com
Why? For over thirty-one years this festival has been showcasing brilliant jazz musicians. If great jazz isn't enough to get you dancing then the flow of Guinness Beer will surely do the trick. Plus, you can't beat the Irish for knowing how to have a good time.

Hogmanay, Edinburgh, Scotland
www.edinburghshogmanay.org
Why? Touted as the 'World's Best New Year's Eve Party,' Hogmanay is the four day festival of parties, street fares, and spirited celebrations. The Torchlight Procession is one of the many traditions of this international event.

The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, Hong Kong
www.discoverhongkong.com
Why? The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as, 'Tuen Ng Festival', is held in honor of the Chinese hero, Qu Yuan. Qu Yuan is supposed to have lived over 2,000 years ago and drowned himself in the Mi Lo River to expose the issue of deceitful rulers. In response, villagers tried to save his body from the water, but were unsuccessful. Competitors in the colorful festival race in 30-foot long boats manned by 20 paddlers; making it a perfect spectators' festival.

Iditarod, Anchorage to Nome, Alaska
www.iditarod.com
Why? Called, "The Last Great Race on Earth," the legendary Iditarod takes place over 1150 miles and lasts anywhere from 10 to 17 days. Battling below freezing temperatures, as well as, ferocious winds and blizzards; the mushers and their team (12 to 16 dogs) courageously race for the finish line. Lots of celebratory events at both ends of the race.

Imperial Ball, Vienna, Austria
www.viennaticket.com/english/specialevents.html
Why? Vienna, celebrated city of music, throws the grand Imperial Ball in the elegant halls of the Hofburg Palace on New Year's Eve. Celebrate the beginning of the year in the state apartments of the ancient Imperial Winter Residence. Dance to the romance of Vienna Waltzs.

Indy 500, Indianapolis, Indiana
www.500festival.com
Why? This is one of the most historic races in the good ol' USA, and has all the trimmings one would expect to go with it. There is something for everyone: a parade, a mini-marathon and the celebrity-studded 'Snakepit Ball,' just to name a few.

Ironman World Championships, Kona, Hawaii
www.ironman.com/worldchampionship
Why? The Ironman Competition attract thousands of contestants but only 1800 are able to participate in one of the most grueling challenges the sports world has to offer . The race consists of: 2.4-miles of swimming, 112-miles of biking, and a 26.2-mile marathon run through ocean waves, and uneven lava-covered terrain. It is an amazing test of will and endurance.

The Kentucky Derby, Louisville, Kentucky
www.kentuckyderby.com
Why? The first jewel in the Triple Crown of horse racing. Lots of American fun. As early as 1942, seven out of the eight finishers were owned by women and over a dozen women have been trainers. Five women have ridden in the Derby, itself. Don't forget your hat!

King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament,
Golden Triangle, Thailand
www.tourismthailand.org
Why? Representing at least fifteen polo teams from four continents this fundraiser for the benefit of elephant conservation has grown from a two day outing to a full-week extravaganza. The event has raised over $200,000 for the benefit of elephants. Other fun elephant activities take place during the course of the tournament.

La Fete de la Veraison
(Chateauneuf-du-Pape Festival),
Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France
www.tourisme.fr
Why? A celebration of wine with medieval leanings. Drink some of the best wine in the world to your heart's content with a refillable glass (for purchase). Wine even flows from the local fountain. The music, costumes and joviality of the festival make this a wine lovers dream.

Las Fiestas de San Fermin (Running with the Bulls), Pamplona, Spain
www.pamplona-tours.com
Why? Immortalized in Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel, The Sun Also Rises, the Running with the Bulls is one of the most famous events in the world. Running with the Bulls takes place in Pamplona, Spain at the Las Fiesta de San Fermin. Beyond the bulls, you'll find fireworks, food, music, and a lot of Spanish partying.

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade,
New York, City
www.macys.com/campaign/parade/parade.jsp
Why? A great American tradition and the kick-off of the holiday season. Watch it on television or take the kids to see it in person. Or go alone, if you're still just a kid at heart.

Mardi Gras Parade, New Orleans, Louisiana
www.mardigrasneworleans.com
Why? Because Mardi Gras is America's craziest party that everyone should experience at least once. The parades begin two weeks before Fat Tuesday (that is the day before Ash Wednesday), and just get bigger and better as the time progresses. Don't forget to taste some King cakes during the festivities.

Monaco Formula One Grand Prix,
Monte Carlo, Monaco
www.grand-prix-monaco.com
Why? The Grand Prix is 77 laps around the narrow, winding streets of Monte Carlo, making the Monaco Grand Prix the most exciting formula one race in the world, with little room for error.

Naadam, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
www.discovermongolia.mn, www.boojum.com
Why? A festival of dazzling athletic agility and ability; the kind of 'tricks of the trade' that Genghis Khan used to form an empire; namely, archery, horse racing and wrestling. You'll be impressed by the athleticism of the contestants and by the friendliness of the Mongolian people.

North Sea Jazz Festival
Rotterdam, Holland
www.northseajazz.com
Why? With 70,000 guests each year they must be doing something right. Reputedly the biggest of the jazz festivals, but regardless of quantity, there is undeniable quality at this "Top Ten" of Europe's Festivals.

Oktoberfest, Germany, Munich, Germany
www.oktoberfest.de
Why? This is a sixteen day beer drinking fest taking place in Bavaria's, Theresienwiese Meadow, under twelve big top tents. The festivities are kicked off with a parade, brass bands and Bavarian costumes. Also, visit the world's most famous beerhouse, Hofbrauhaus.

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival,
Ashland, Oregon
www.osfashland.org
Why? Founded in 1935, the Tony Award-winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival is among the oldest and largest professional theatres in the nation. Each year the festival presents an eight-and-a-half-month season of eleven plays in three theatres, and presents more than 780 performances annually with attendance of approximately 400,000.

Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe,
Longchamp, Paris France
www.prixarcdetriomphe.com
Why? This is France's version of the Brit's Royal Ascot, and one of the most important (and the richest) thoroughbred racing events on the European calendar.

Queen's Day,
Amsterdam, Holland, The Netherlands
www.amsterdam.info/queensday
Why? Because it's monarch Queen Beatrix's birthday, of course! It's the best and often the most outrageous 24 hour party on the planet. Everyone gets into the spirit of the event with food booths, market stalls, wild dancing and celebratory music wafting in the streets and float down the colorful canals.

Reenactment of Gettysburg, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
www.gettysburgreenactment.com
Why? Relive the decisive 1863 battle at Gettysburg of the Civil War. Three days of reenactments in authentic clothing and military regalia. Also, try the food, see a Civil War wedding, and generally, step back in history to relive one of our country's pivotal moments history.

Reggae Sumfest, Montego Bay, Jamaica
www.reggaesumfest.com
Why? The world's best Reggae Festival featuring hot bands and Reggae legends. Throw in bonfires beachside and some delicious jerk chicken and you have a serious good time on your hands. The Jamaicans are kind, as well as, friendly. Can't miss with this one

Rio Carnival, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
www.rio-carnival.net
Why? Extravagant costumes, boisterous crowds, pounding music, delicious food and drink, and spectacular parades are some of the highlights of the biggest (and rumored to be best) carnival on the planet. Check out world renown, Copacabana Palace Hotel, if you want to attend a ball, but don't have an insider's connection.

Roswell UFO Festival, Roswell, New Mexico
www.ufofestivalroswell.com
This four day festival is for believers and nonbelievers, humans and aliens, alike. Called one of the 'craziest festivals in the world;' the UFO Festival is for every Adventure Woman wanting to take one step beyond.

Royal Ascot Races, Ascot, England
www.ascot.co.uk
Why? The pomp & circumstance at England's premier horse race, and a social season standout, is too exciting to be missed. Whether you're sitting inside the Royal Enclosure or not, you will be enthralled by the whimsy and daring of the millenary pageantry. A good place to see real Royals play

Salzburg Festival, Salzburg, Austria
www.salzburgfestival.at
Why? Salzburg is a historical and beautiful city (Mozart's birthplace), and a wonderful place to visit any time of year; but especially so during the Salzburg Festival. The Festival is considered by many to be the largest, if not most important music event in Europe so purchase tickets early.

Sapporo Snow Festival
Hokkaido, Japan
www.snowfes.com
Why? Over two million people travel to see this winter wonderland of intricately cut snow and ice sculptures; some small and others verging on gigantic, but all impressively artistic and awe-inspiring.

Siena Palio, Siena, Italy
www.terresiena.it
Why? A thrilling horse race ridden bareback around Piazza del Campo (a city center) in Sienna. The race is the most famous in Italy and dates back to 1656. Colorful and emotional, like the Italians themselves, this is a spectacular and unforgettable horse race.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally,
Sturgis, South Dakota
www.sturgis.com
Why? Started in 1937, Sturgis is the 'mother' of all motorcycle rallies. Nearly a half million people make the biker pilgrimage to Sturgis each year to attend bike shows, headline concerts and to party and booze. A must attend week-long event for any Adventure Woman biker chic.

Thrissur Pooram (Elephant Pooram),
Thrissur, Kerala, India
www.festivalsofindia.in/pooram
Why? Thrissur Pooram is a big and colorful temple festival featuring elaborately decorated elephants that make a spectacular processional (Kudamatton) from other Temples. Apart from this beautiful procession, other attractions include; a fireworks display, parasol exchanges, an umbrella showing competition, drum concerts and delicious India food.

Trooping the Colour, London, England
http://www.army.mod.uk/events
Why? Help the Queen of England celebrate her birthday by watching 'all of the Queen's horses and all of the Queen's men' on parade with massed bands and quintessentially British pomp. A must see event starting at home, aka, Buckingham Palace.

Venice Carnival, Venice, Italy
www.venicecarnival.com
Why? The Carnival celebrates the passage from winter into spring. Dating back to 1296, the Carnival is a tradition of possibilities, when the most humble of classes become the most powerful by wearing ornate masks on their faces and costume. You will find music, street theater, mask contests and other amusements. If lucky, you will find a ticket to the Doge's Ball (Il Ballo del Dodge) or one of the many elegant Venetian soirees.

The Vienna Opera Ball, Vienna, Austria www.viennaticket.com/english/specialevents.html
Why? The famed Vienna Opera Ball is an Austrian society event which takes place in the beautiful building of the Vienna State Opera on the Thursday preceding Ash Wednesday. The Opera Ball is one of the unforgettable events of the Viennese carnival season. Be prepared to 'dress to the nines.'

Wexford Opera Festival, Wexford, Ireland
www.wexfordopera.com
Why? The Wexford Festival Opera has be running since 1951, playing an important role in the cultural life of Ireland, as well as, in the world of Opera and Arts internationally. Top performers combined with wonderful acoustics and comfortable seating makes this a Must See Event.

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championship, Wimbledon, England
www.wimbledon.org
Why? Tennis is happening on so many courts at once you won't know which one to watch. Strawberries and crème are a favorite at the world's most prestigious tennis tournament. Look for the ticket lottery in the late fall.