Making and enjoying music is a universal part of being human, dating back thousands of years. It brings us together, sparks joy, makes us move, stirs up emotion and serves as a reminder that people often see life in the same way. That is why the International Music Council, a UNESCO organisation, declared 1 October annual International Music Day almost 75 years ago.
Since its inception, International Music Day has been about celebrating the power of music and its ability to foster unity and peace across the globe. So, in honour of this year’s International Music Day, Expat Explore has compiled a list of the world’s most unmissable music moments! Read on for the best global musical events and experiences.
Here are our top unique global experiences for music lovers:
Go to a no-curfew techno rave in Berlin
Hardcore techno music lovers need one place on their travel bucket list – Berlin, Germany! Not only is the techno harder but the raves are also longer. Berlin is known for having no-curfew clubs where the rave often lasts a whole weekend. For locals, the rave and techno experience is less about partying and more about promoting a lifestyle. Its all about art, dancing and connecting with like-minded people.
Whether you’re new on the techno scene or a veteran raver, a weekend out in Berlin is something you simply have to experience for yourself. If you can get in, that is…
Related: Deep dive into all the incredible things to experience in Berlin!
See an opera at Palais Garnier
A trip to Paris provides an opportunity to tick many of the world’s most popular travel attractions off your bucket list! But a night at the opera in Palais Garnier should be at the top of that list. Considered by many as a quintessential Parisian experience akin to visiting the Louvre or Notre Dame, delighting your senses with a classic opera is an unmissable experience on a tour of France.
Apart from the operatic arrangements that would please even the most discerning of music critics, Palais Garnier’s grandeur is also a must-see. Known for its ornate details and opulent design, the Palais Garnier is a historic site to behold! Take in the splendour of the authentic Napoleon III-style opera house that was the setting for the 1910 novel The Phantom of the Opera.
Attend a classical concert in Vienna
As the birthplace of world-renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Austria is quite at home on a list of must-visit musical places. Capital city Vienna, which is also the world capital of classical music, is known for hosting regular classical evenings dedicated to the works of the late greats like Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and more.
Embark on a truly magical musical journey as top Viennese orchestras take you back in time with the power of music. If that’s not reason enough to visit, the concert halls are nothing short of breathtaking!
Related: Join the Vienna Classical Music Concert optional excursion on our Eastern Highlights tour!
Feel the Fado in Portugal
Portugal brings us the next musical moment on our list, sure to stir up the emotions of any traveller to encounter it. We’re talking about the traditional Portuguese music genre of Fado. Translated as “fate”, Fado music is distinctly mournful as it paints a picture of times when love was divided by oceans. As such, Fado is Portugal’s answer to folk and blues music.
Be sure to make time for this emotional musical experience when you visit Lisbon. As soon as the lights fade and the room silences, you’re in for the show of a lifetime!
Related: Portugal belongs on your bucket list, and here’s why!
Discover Irish music in Dublin
Ireland is next on our list, with the capital city of Dublin acting as a cacophony of sounds and music styles. From contemporary and experimental to traditional, Dublin truly comes alive with music when the sun goes down. However, the most magical musical experience in Dublin can be found in the heart of Irish culture – pubs!
Dublin is known for some incredible traditional Irish music, and the pub scene is just the place to experience it. Not only do you get to hear the impressive sounds of live Irish folk music but you can also tuck into the most delicious traditional meals and grab a Guinness to wash it all down.
Related: Pre-book the Irish Music Evening optional excursion before your trip to Ireland!
Dance the Flamenco in Spain
A list of memorable world music experiences would be incomplete without a nod to Spain. As buzzing as the streets, eats and people are, the music is no different. Enter Flamenco, a traditional art form that was simultaneously a symbol of the regimen and a tool for rebellion.
Flamenco is a world-famous style of Spanish folk music and dance including cante (singing), toque (guitar playing), baile (dance) and palmas (handclaps). Experience the passion, power and excitement of the performers as you embrace the Flamenco in its home.
Related: Enjoy a Barcelona Flamenco Show & Dinner optional excursion on our Taste of Spain tour!
Now that you’ve sampled a few snippets of the world’s best musical experiences, we’re sure you’re ready to fully immerse yourself! If you ever need a reason to travel the world, International Music Day is the perfect opportunity for music lovers.
With so many musical genres and traditional styles all over the world, there’s something to satisfy almost anyone’s taste! Book a trip with Expat Explore, and get ready to stomp your feet and feel the rhythm worldwide!