Lugansk has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is late spring through early autumn (May to September), when temperatures sit between 18 and 24°C and the city's parks and outdoor markets are at their best. October and November bring heavy rainfall and grey skies, making sightseeing less enjoyable. The city's main cultural festival, the Mistrial Festival, takes place in summer and features folk dancing, traditional dress, and craft markets in the city centre.