Did you know that there are 569 excuses for eating chocolate? Actually we made that number up, but in the lead up to Easter at the end of April even the feeblest justification seems enough. What we need is a distraction. European festivals and events so engrossing, absurd and fun, that the last thing you’ll be thinking about is how to take candy from a rabbit…   

So you think you’ve got multitasking down to a tee? Wait until the British Juggling Convention hits Nottingham from 15 to 21 April. Catch the showdowns of juggling clubs, balls, and even small children if they get too competitive – some while hopping on one leg. You can learn a few party tricks in the workshops too.

After all that edge of your seat action, head to the The Welbeck Hotel Nottingham for a candlelight dinner at the on-site Rooftop Garden restaurant overlooking the lights of the city.

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In 140 characters or less, let us tell you why the Tweakfest exhibition in Zurich from 23-24 April is the place to be for Europe’s digital buffs. How about web gurus, the latest gizmos, workshops, discussions and an after party so hot it’ll melt your pixels.

Hip and happenin’ types love the Coronado hotel, right across from a large park with a climbing wall, tennis court and soccer pitch—or you can instead vege out over the lavish breakfast.

See more great Zurich hotel deals for 23-24 April.

If you’re in the mood for a serious culture fix, you’ll love the Ludwig van Beethoven Easter Festival in Warsaw from 9-22 April. The days and nights are filled will everything classical music from the composer’s time through to today. Dress to impress for an evening concert, attend an exhibition,pick up some dinner-party story fodder —and learn how appreciate this geniuses music even more!

Where else would be fit for you and your Immortal Beloved but the luxurious 19^th century Mamaison Residence Diana Warsaw?

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You’re guaranteed to have a blast in Florence on 24 April at the Explosion of the Cart. The crescendo is a rocket flying out of a town square to ignite a huge wooden structure to ensure a good harvest—or the modern day equivalent! Leading up to the bang you can watch the procession of the cart, brightly costumed revellers and see an archbishop getting into the action by lighting the rocket—sure beats a sermon!

Things are far more sedate at the Croce Di Malta Hotel, which has a courtyard filled with calming and beautiful magnolias and wisterias, and a beautiful swimming pool.

See more great Florence hotel deals for 24 April.