4. Brussels Jazz Marathon

The Buzz -- For one weekend each May, Brussels swings to the sounds of live jazz. Nearly 100 concerts are scheduled on 60 stages throughout the city. Local artists play in pubs and on street corners, and internationally known acts perform to sold-out crowds. Concerts are offered during the day and at night, indoors and outdoors, including on one large stage in the Grand-Place, where free shows are held. The "Jazz Pass" buys admission to all shows and to transportation between venues on jazz marathon buses and on public transportation. Attendance at the popular festival often runs as high as 250,000.