If you’re looking to travel this May, here are a few top events from around the world to inspire one last spring getaway.
Lotus Lantern Festival, May 10-12
One of Korea’s largest festivals, the Lotus Lantern Festival celebrates Buddha’s birthday with Buddhist ceremonies, parades and a flurry of lanterns throughout Seoul’s city center and temples. Visitors can make their own lanterns, try vegetarian temple food and play folk games.
Cannes Film Festival, May 15-26
As one of the world’s most recognizable film festivals and possibly the industry’s most prestigious, Cannes Film Festival draws movie-makers, celebrities and film junkies alike. The general public can enjoy free screenings at Cinéma de la Plage, an open-air theater.
World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, May 16-18
More than 250 grill masters will head to Memphis to battle for the crown at this annual barbecue competition. Visitors can learn the tricks of the trade from barbecue masters during the Cooker’s Caravan guided tour, or you can even try your hand at judging for a $10 fee.
Monaco Grand Prix, May 23-26
Get your high-octane thrills this May at the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious Formula One races in the world. Held since 1929, the Monaco Grand Prix features a narrow course with sharp turns, elevation changes and deceivingly dangerous low speeds.
International Sand Sculpture Festival, May 25
The largest sand sculpture festival in the world comes to Pera each May, when 50 artists work their magic on more than 40,000 tons of sand. Sculptures are particularly breathtaking in the evenings, when they are lit up against the night sky. Music is this year’s festival theme.
World Street Food Congress, May 31-June 9
Love street food? Then, head to Singapore at the end of the month for a 10-day celebration of street-side dining and the local chefs who make it possible. Visitors can feast on street food from countries like Thailand, Malaysia, India, Mexico and, of course, Singapore.
(Main image: Tomas Fano used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)