10. Freddie Mercury's Memorial Day

The Buzz -- The late Queen front man is an icon in the city where he lived for several years: the bronze statue of Freddie that dominates the market place is Montreux’s stylish riposte to the Cristo Redentor and the Statue of Liberty. The memorial weekend sees pilgrims paying homage at his house and the original site of the legendary Mountain recording studio. It culminates in a concert by tribute bands – easily the best party of the year.