January 2012 looks set to be filled with festivals and events worldwide, from the traditional Chinese New Year (23 January 2012) to the Highland Village Christmas Market (24 November 2011 – 4 January 2012) But what about the slightly less known festivals that take place every year?
Here we have a selection of the January 2012 festivals that you may not have considered. You might not have known they even existed.
La Vijanera
One resident dressed as The Bear during La Vijanera
Where: Cantabria, Spain
When: 8 January 2012
Why: Usually taking place every first Sunday of the year (except Jan 2012) the small village of Silio (Molledo, Cantabria) celebrates the triumph of good over evil with this carnival-style festival. Participation sees the residents don masks, animal skins and coloured clothing.
During an open – air theatre performance, residents act out parts such as “La Pepa” (symbolic of the Spanish constitution) “The Madame” and “The Elderly”. The performance ends with the capture of “The Bear” (one of the participants dressed as the bear) and is believed to ward off evil spirits and enter the new year with good omens.
CountryLink Parkes Elvis Festival
Elvis impersonators during the festival
Where: Central New South Wales town of Parkes, Australia
When: 11 January – 15 January 2012
Why: This may not be your typical festival, but it will be a moment to remember. Last year, up to 9,000 Elvis Presley fans gathered (in costume) to celebrate Presley’s birthday. The five – day programme includes look-a-like and sound-a-like contests, the Elvis Street parade, an Elvis Gospel Church service and another 120 individual events.
For more holiday ideas in Australia, visit Discover: Margaret River
Well – Wishing Festival
Wishes tied to foam oranges during the Well - Wishing festival
Where: Hong Kong, Lam Tsuen wishing square
When: 23 January – 6 February 2012
Why: The festival takes place to mark the start of the lunar new year. Visitors can make their wishes at the Lam Tsuen wishing tree, and enjoy the traditional activities to welcome in the year of the dragon. Activities include throwing wishing – placards, sampling the traditional Hakka regional snacks, or taking part in the magical Wishing Lanterns Lighting Ceremony.
Remember: Some of the activities do require pre-registration, so planning ahead is advised. The festival runs 09:00 to 19:00 local time from Monday to Friday, and finishing at 22:00 local time on weekends.
To learn more about Hong Kong, visit Discover: Hong Kong
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