One of the first discussions held on this website was the topic of the possibility of a defined European Culture. (See culture forums).

Whether or not there is such a thing, it is certainly true that Europe has exported global cultural phenomena over the centuries.

Mardi Gras, the Shrove Tuesday ritual marking the start of Lent, is now celebrated with greater vigour in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and in New Orleans, USA than it is anywhere in Europe.

The drinking of wine fermented from the fruit of the vine, first cultivated in the fertile valley of Mesopotamia but reaching its apotheosis in Western Europe is an example of a prime cultural product whose reach and popularity is now global.

Now Europe itself plays host to the defined cultural traditions from peoples and places far beyond its shores. Does it reflect on cultural stability and European self-confidence that this diverse continent can amalgamate and incorporate multi-culturalism, world music, non Judaeo-Christian traditions and indeed celebrate them with such panache and style?

Perhaps it is just that we have the necessary infrastructure, communication technology, transport links and an eager consumer base with leisure time to spare who can facilitate and participate in some of the most interesting festivals and cultural events which are essential parts of the European calendar.Here is a selection of some of the non-traditionally European cultural festivals that take place every year.