Don’t miss out on these unique winter events around the world
A packed arena at the Australian Open.
Image credit: FiledIMAGE/ShutterstockFrom thought-provoking art exhibitions to international cricket competitions to a Japanese festival revolving around snow, discover these noteworthy events happening around the world from January to April.
January
Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open 2024 in Melbourne.
Image credit: Victor Velter/ShutterstockAustralian Open
January 12 – February 1
Melbourne Park hosts the first Grand Slam event of the year, showcasing some of the world’s best tennis in a lavish setting. Enjoy comfortable amenities, delicious dining opportunities, and musical entertainment alongside the riveting game.
Art SG Singapore
January 23–25
Located at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Center, this extensive contemporary art fair showcases Southeast Asia’s flourishing art scene, with galleries and exhibits from around the world, inspiring performances, and stimulating discussions.
The snowboard halfpipe event from the 2010 Winter X Games in Tignes, France.
Image credit: oliverdelahaye/ShutterstockX Games Aspen
January 23–25
For fans of extreme sports, the X Games presents three consecutive days of thrilling competition and winter revelry. Complete with live music and back-to-back events, this lively affair will keep attendees constantly enthralled.
February
Mexico City Art Week
February 2–8
Featuring several different art fairs, events, and exhibits throughout the week, including everything from world-renowned artists to local galleries, Mexico City Art Week presents an opportunity to explore and celebrate Latin America’s vibrant culture and community.
One of the many impressive snow sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Image credit: seiksoon/iStockSapporo Snow Festival
February 4–11
Embrace the snow at Sapporo’s famous festival, where you can partake in winter activities such as ice skating, enjoy a drink at the ice bar, and witness the International Snow Sculpture Contest.
Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival
February 5–8
This unique winter event showcases elaborate light installations throughout the city of Reykjavik, as well as several other interactive events, competitions, and exhibits, all free of charge.
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup
February 7 – March 8
The International Cricket Council Men’s World Cup will be hosted by Sri Lanka and India and will run throughout February and the beginning of March. Tune in to watch 20 teams from around the world compete for the 2026 title.
Chinese New Year parades occur all around the world.
Image credit: Jason Wells/ShutterstockChinese New Year
February 17
While the Chinese New Year begins on February 17, it is followed by a whole two weeks of festivals, gatherings, and celebrating.
March
A colorful Holi celebration.
Image credit: Kristin F. Ruhs/ShutterstockHoli
March 4
Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors, is a Hindu tradition consisting of music, dancing, and throwing colored powders at one another. Celebrating the beginning of Spring and the triumph of good over evil, this vibrant holiday is a truly mesmerizing occasion.
Festival Ciutat de Clàssica
March 5–31
This city-wide festival celebrates classical music by hosting performances throughout Barcelona. With both ticketed and free events, at locations ranging from famous venues to public parks, this event has something for everyone.
Shanghai Biennale
November 8, 2025 - March 31, 2026
The Shanghai Biennale, running through March 31, features a provocative contemporary exhibition, “Does the flower hear the bee?” This globally acclaimed event draws art lovers and travelers alike from all over the world.
Las Fallas de Valencia attendees dressed in traditional clothing during the floral offering ceremony.
Image credit: Jorgefontestad/iStockLas Fallas de Valencia
March 15–19
At this culturally significant festival in Valencia, Spain, gigantic sculptures made of paper and wood are burnt to commemorate Saint Joseph, as well as act as a cleansing for the new season.
April
Filipe Toledo competing against Ryan Callinan at Bells Beach in 2019.
Image credit: I. Noyan Yilmaz/ShutterstockWorld Surf League Championship Tour
April 1–11
Watch some of the best surfers in the world compete at Bells Beach in Victoria, Australia for the first World Surf League competition of the year. This event marks the beginning of an exciting season where surfers travel to famous breaks around the globe to compete for a world title.
The Randox Grand National Festival
April 9–11
The Randox Grand National Festival in Liverpool, England, is a truly glamorous sporting event, known for its world-class horse racing and classy yet lively atmosphere.
A floral float depicting a cow from the Dutch Flower Parade.
Image credit: Vitalinka/ShutterstockDutch Flower Parade
April 18
As Spring nears, Holland celebrates with a parade of stunning floats bedecked in vibrant flowers. Located at Keukenhof Gardens, just outside of Amsterdam, this colorful event is the perfect way to celebrate the changing of seasons.
For more travel inspiration, check out the Winter Calendar in Volume 30 of Preferred Travel Magazine.