It must be the afternoon siestas and cafes con leche, because the Spaniards serve up the unequivocally wildest, year-round sideshow of celebrations and festivals in Europe. Every Hemingway-quoting frat boy has heard of the uncontrollably raucous Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, but the dangerous fun doesn't stop there.
Catholic ritual is a big part of Spanish daily life and is duly reflected in how they celebrate.
The south of Spain, called Andalucia, has a relaxed attitude all its own. For a real look into this ancient land, stop by the rowdy, spirited Feria de Sevilla or family reunion atmosphere of the Romeria del Rocio Pilgrimage . Still other Spanish events take on a more pagan quality. La Fallas de Valencia is a pyromaniac's dream and the Carnival in Cadiz offers the most uninhibited pre-lent fun on the European continent. And for the faint of heart, a calmer, more romantic alternative might be the beautiful Las Diada de Sant Jordi in Barcelona.