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May festivals and events worth travelling for

Two festivals worth planning a trip around in May, with the day to be there and how far ahead to book.

A golden mikoshi carried through the crowd at Senso-ji in Asakusa during Sanja Matsuri
14 to 16 May 2027Shrine festival

Sanja Matsuri

Tokyo, Japan

If you are in Tokyo in mid-May, go to Asakusa. After a Friday of costumed procession, its neighbourhood teams spend the weekend carrying their portable shrines through the streets round Senso-ji temple.

Best day
Sunday 16 May, from 7am
Book
Asakusa rooms months ahead
17 May 2027National day

Syttende Mai

Oslo, Norway

Line Oslo's main street on 17 May and you will see the city's schoolchildren march behind brass bands up to the royal family on the Palace balcony.

Best day
The morning, for the 10am children's parade
Book
A dinner table, well ahead
Next month June Monaco Grand Prix, Inti Raymi