Mezcal used to be a cheap drink, produced by local artisans and drunk by Mexican lower classes. But in 2013, it was the fifth most-drunk liquor worldwide. With its ancient distilling methods and complex flavours, how has it captured the palates of a growing number of admirers?

France hosted more than 1,600 festivals in 2014, including some of Europe’s most iconic gatherings. But as attendees are served the same predictable line-ups and experiences, big events are losing appeal. What’s the allure of niche festivals and how can brands tap into these intimate occasions?

Every year, more than 6 million people attend live music events in the UK. Festivals are no longer about peace, love and LSD – they're commercial success stories. But have they kept any of their rebellious spirit, or are they just Instagram islands where anything goes?

In 2014, Utah saw 70,000 people come together to revel in the two-day Hindu festival of colours known as Holi. With a crowd that was more Mormon than Hindu, the occasion highlighted how the religious event has been embraced by people of all backgrounds. How has Holi gone hipster?