Chios Island, Greece
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It’s sure to be a night of passion on the Greek island of Chios when two rival churches take part in an unusual tradition known as rouketopolemos the night before Easter (March 31). Translated as “rocket war,” the event is exactly as it sounds: starting around 8:00 p.m., the neighboring churches begin firing thousands of fireworks at each other, causing the town to resound with the sound of hurtling comets and exploding rockets. The event is so popular, locals hike up into the hills to ensure a good viewing spot before the blazing proceedings get underway.
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Valencia, Spain
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Europeans have a way of toasting the start of spring that frankly puts the United States to shame. Whether it’s a town-wide bonfire or tossing bread rolls from the top of a hill, you’re better off on the far side of the Atlantic when the vernal equinox arrives. Case in point: Valencia, Spain. In March, the Spanish coastal city hosts a nearly month-long event known as Las Fallas, which includes street performances, a parade of giant papier-mâché puppets known as ninots, and the construction of a 50-foot high pillar made of flowers.