What's On Worldwide

Isle of Man

July 7, This is Tynwald Day, said to be one of the world's oldest parliamentary ceremonies, dating back more than 1,000 years. On this day, on the ancient site of the parliament, all legislation passed in the previous year is proclaimed in Manx Gaelic. Manx residents then air their grievances in public.

Spain

July 6-14, Pamplona. Las Fiestas de San Fermin, one of the world's most riotous and dangerous parties, takes place (right). Otherwise known as the Running of the Bulls, the object is to run as close in front of the bulls as you dare, armed only with a rolled-up copy of the Independent on Sunday (or indeed any other newspaper). Deaths bring glory to bereaved families.

Croatia

July 10-25, Dubrovnik. This is the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, returning to life after the traumas of war. There will be drama, music, dance and opera performances in this fantastically sited city on the Dalmatian coast.

York

July 4 to 13, England. The Early Music festival. This is one of the most important annual events for lovers of music from the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and Classical periods. Performances take place in various venues, including York Minster.

Japan

July 7, Tanabat, or Star festival is celebrated all across Japan. As an offering to the stars, Vega and Altair, which meet across the Milky Way, children set up bamboo branches carrying strips of paper with their wishes inscribed.

India

July 6, Rath Yatra. This is an important festival held in Puri and other places, especially to the south, which is designed to commemorate Krishna's - Lord Juggernath's - journey to Mathura.

Sweden

July 13-19, Gothenburg. The Gothia Cup takes place, the biggest soccer tournament in the world for young people. Some 25,000 players from almost 50 countries will be taking part.