Photos: AP / Sucheta Das, Manish Swarup, Biswaranjan Rout

"Up-Helly-Aa" is a very impressive spectacle, a celebration of Shetland history, and a triumphant demonstration of the islanders' skills and spirit. This northern Mardi Gras lasts just one day (and night) and held on the last Tuesday in January. Only men can take an active part in the celebrations "Up-Helly-Aa". The first celebration was in 1878.

Lerwick, Scotland. (Photo: AFP)

People drop lines in holes on a frozen river at a trout fishing festivity in Hwacheon, about 20 km (12 miles) south of the demilitarised zone separating two Koreas, northeast of Seoul. The trout fishing event was part of the annual ice festival, which attracted more than 1,000,000 people and lasts for three weeks in January.

(Xinhua Photo)

Berlin Festival of Lights - bigger and even more fascinating than last year, Berlin Festival of Lights illuminates Berlins famous sights, places and buildings.

Photo: DPA, DDP, AP, Reuters, Getty Images