Thaipusam

23 January

A fascinating Hindu festival that includes a parade, purification and cleansing rituals along the Streets of Georgetown to Jalan Kebun Bungah.

Penang International Floral Festival

1 May - 30 June

Flowers in a myriad of colours come to full bloom in Penang's Botanical Gardens, George Town.

Penang International Dragon Boat Festival

1 May - 30 June

Brightly-painted boats race to the finishing line amidst drumbeats, cheers and a dazzling display of colours.

Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival

24 May - 3 August

Malaysia's annual sales carnival promises plenty of bargains and special discounts on lots of items from designer wear to electrical items to lighten the hearts (and pockets) of shopaholics nationwide.

Penang World Music Festival 2008

2 - 4 May

Held at the Botanical Gardens, musicians from all over the world are brought together under one stage, performing music of their respective nations.

Penang Bridge International Marathon

29 July

This sporting event combines a full marathon, a half-marathon and a quarter marathon on the Penang Bridge, with participants from all over the world compete for trophies, medals and other great prizes.

Merdeka Celebrations

31 August

Malaysians from all over the country get together to celebrate this historic event commemorating the country's 51st foray into the state of independence, marked with a host of activities including parades, exhibitions and fireworks displays.

Penang International Lantern Festival

1 November - 31 December

Also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, the island of Penang is alighted with lanterns of various shapes, sizes and colours, marking the Chinese's successful rebellion against the Mongol rulers in the 14th century.

Malaysia International Gourmet Festival

1 - 30 November

The country's premier gastronomic event comes to town with some of Malaysia's finest restaurants offering special promotions and exclusive menus for almost a month.

Malaysia Year End Sale Carnival

29 November - 4 January 2009

This sale carnival is a much-awaited event for shopaholics nationwide as big-name stores offer fantastic discounts and bargains.