Festivals are a great way to explore a country. They offer you an opportunity to experience different cultures and traditions and meet people from around the world. Festivals are also perfect for mental health because they can help relieve stress and anxiety.
It’s one thing to visit a community to explore the tourist venues and nature surrounding it. It’s a whole other experience to visit a community when it is having one of its festivals!
Festivals are one of the best ways to experience the culture and local flavors a community offers. Festivals usually occur in public places, so meeting new people and making friends is easy. There are many different types of festivals, so there is definitely one that will appeal to you.
If you are looking for an exciting and fun-filled way to travel this year, then be sure to visit some of the world’s best festivals. Here are eleven of the best festivals to check out:
Best Festivals in the World
1. Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Feb 28 to March 4)
To be fair, Carnival is celebrated throughout Brazil and is one of the most famous festivals worldwide. Nearly 500k people visit this Carnival annually; it is the benchmark by which many other best festivals are judged! It’s a 5-day celebration 40 days before Easter, culminating in Fat Tuesday before the Lent period begins on Ash Wednesday.
The only way to describe Carnival is “euphoria.” Singing, dancing, and partying bring out the fun people need just as Spring begins, allowing everyone to display their true heart and soul in a joyous atmosphere.
Colorful parades and marches can be found every day, and you can party every night away with your own preferred festive garb! You’ll even find many people in drag during this euphoric festival!
What to explore after the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro has much more to do than just attending the Carnival festival. Some of the other top attractions include:
The Christ the Redeemer statue is popular because it symbolizes hope and redemption. It’s located on Mount Corcovado and it is one of the largest art deco statues in the world. The statue was built in 1931 and it is dedicated to Jesus Christ.
Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rio de Janeiro, offering panoramic views of the city and the ocean below. The mountain is made up of two peaks, named Sugarloaf and Morro da Urca. Visitors can reach the summit via a cable car or by climbing the stairs.
Santa Teresa is a historic neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro known for its charming colonial-era buildings and winding streets. The neighborhood is on a hill overlooking the city and the ocean below.
Where to stay in Rio
You must stay in the right area when visiting Rio de Janeiro for Carnival. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Rio: The Copacabana Palace Hotel is one of the most iconic hotels in Rio de Janeiro. This hotel was originally built in 1923 and has been renovated several times. The Copacabana Palace Hotel is located on Copacabana Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Mandarin Oriental Rio de Janeiro is another luxurious hotel in Rio de Janeiro. This hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the city or the ocean. The Mandarin Oriental Rio de Janeiro also features a spa, several restaurants, and a fitness center.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider staying at the Ipanema Inn Hotel. This hotel is in the heart of Ipanema Beach and offers beautiful ocean views. The Ipanema Inn Hotel features an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant.
No matter what type of accommodation you choose, be sure to visit some of Rio de Janeiro’s world-famous festivals this year.
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2. Battle of the Oranges – Ivrea, Italy (March 2 – 4)
This is one of the most famous festivals in the world. No one knows how the Battle of the Oranges began. All people know is that orange is traditionally the color of Protestantism, and it is believed that at some point, someone threw some oranges at the Italian royalty to protest something.
A popular account of the festival’s origins tells the story of a girl who decapitated a royal who tried to force himself upon her. Named Violetta, a young girl is chosen to play this role every year.
Unlike the tomato festivals of Europe, the Battle of the Oranges is more violent than you’d likely think, so being part of one of the nine combat teams may not be for you. The safest way to experience the festival is to hide behind the safety nets installed along the battle routes. You can stand in the battleground, but beware of large, rogue oranges!
As the days leading up to the festival approach, the townspeople of Ivrea spend their time baking traditional food items like panettone and torrone. Plenty of food stands sell sweet and savory treats if you get hungry from all the excitement.
What to explore after the Battle of the Oranges
Ivrea is home to a number of other attractions in addition to the Battle of the Oranges. Some of the top attractions include:
The Duomo di Ivrea is a beautiful medieval cathedral located in the town of Ivrea, Italy. The cathedral was built in the 13th century, and it features a number of beautiful Gothic arches and columns. The Duomo di Ivrea also features a stained-glass window dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The Castello di Ivrea is a beautifully preserved castle in Ivrea, Italy. It was built in the 10th century and has been used as a military fortress, a prison, and a palace over the years. Today, it is open to the public and hosts regular cultural events. The castle is a popular tourist attraction and is well worth a visit if you are in the area.
Lake Sirio is a picturesque lake located in the town of Ivrea, Italy. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and its lovely views of the surrounding mountains.
Where to stay
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Ivrea and enjoy one of the biggest and best festivals, here are a few options. The best option is to stay in one of the hotels near the cathedral, such as the Duomo di Ivrea Hotel or the Castello di Ivrea Hotel. These hotels offer stunning views of the cathedral and are within walking distance of all the action.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider staying at Residence I Due Laghi. This hotel is located on the outskirts of Ivrea and offers beautiful views of Lake Sirio.
See Related: Discover Italy’s Hidden Beach in Polignano a Mare
3. Mardi Gras New Orleans (Tuesday, March 4th)
Who doesn’t know about Mardi Gras? Festive costumes, tons of beads, and plenty of festivities mark the occasion where parades and social norms are thrown out the window. Similar to the Carnival celebrations of Brazil, Mardi Gras is a time to let loose and have fun.
When experiencing Mardi Gras, don’t forget to load up on plenty of King Cakes! Coming in a wide variety of flavors, these cakes are stuffed bread that is often sweet, but savory varieties are also available. Put on your mask, gather some beads the old-fashioned way, and have yourself a grand time before Ash Wednesday!
Mardi Gras is not just one event but a season of events starting the Saturday before Ash Wednesday and ending on Fat Tuesday. Some of the most popular events include parades, balls, and concerts.
Parades are probably the most well-known aspect of Mardi Gras and occur almost daily during the season. The Krewe of Bacchus parade is the most famous, which features elaborate floats and celebrity riders.
Balls are another popular event during Mardi Gras and often have themes related to the season. Some popular balls include the Mardi Gras Ball at the Monteleone Hotel and the Orpheuscapade Ball.
What to explore after Mardi Gras
In addition to Mardi Gras, there are plenty of other attractions to check out in New Orleans. Some of the top attractions include:
The French Quarter is a must-see for anyone visiting New Orleans. This historic district is home to some of the most famous buildings in the city, including the St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square. There are also plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops in the French Quarter, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
Louis Armstrong Park is in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana. The park is home to several institutions, including the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, and the Congo Square Rhythms Festival.
Where to Stay
There are a number of hotels in New Orleans to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences.
For a luxurious experience, the Monteleone Hotel is a great option. This historic hotel is located in the heart of the French Quarter and offers a variety of amenities, including a rooftop pool and spa.
Consider staying at the Royal Sonesta New Orleans for a more affordable option. This hotel is also located in the French Quarter and offers a number of amenities, including an on-site restaurant and bar.
Another great option is staying in one of the neighborhoods outside the French Quarter. The Garden District is a popular option, as it is home to a number of luxurious mansions.
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4. Holi Festival, India (Monday, March 17)
Celebrating the triumph of good over evil, the Holi Festival is an ancient Hindu festival in India. It is one of the most colorful festivals on the planet. Throwing colors are usually derived from plants like turmeric, but chalk is sometimes used today. Religious and social barriers are discarded as everyone becomes equal through the color of love.
The Holi Festival is celebrated around the world, but everyone should experience the Hindu foundations of this festival at least once in India.
After throwing the colors, people will get cleaned up and exchange sweets as they spend time with loved ones. One of the key components of love is forgiveness, which is emphasized in this famous festival. Generate harmony by offering someone a hug, wish them a “Happy Holi,” and you’ll have an incredible life experience!
What to explore after the Holi Festival
There are a number of other attractions near the Holi Festival in India that are worth checking out. Some of the top attractions include:
The Taj Mahal is one of India’s most famous tourist destinations and is well worth visiting. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built this iconic white marble mausoleum in memory of his late wife.
The Golden Temple is the holiest shrine in the Sikh religion and is located in Amritsar, Punjab. The temple is made of gold and is a stunning sight to behold. The Meenakshi Temple is a Hindu temple located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi.
Where to stay
If you’re looking to experience Holi India, one of the world’s top festivals, be sure to stay at the right place! Certain areas of the country are better suited for celebrating the event, and we’ve got all the info you need to make sure your trip is as impressive as it can be.
Mathura is one of the most popular destinations for enjoying Holi. Located just a few hours outside of Delhi, this city has many temples and religious sites, making it the perfect place to spend the festival.
For a more rural setting to experience Holi, head to Vrindavan, another popular destination known for its stunning temples and natural beauty.
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5. Coachella Valley Music Festival, California (April 11 to 13)
Combining art and music, Coachella attracts some big-name artists while providing an incredible opportunity for some outdoor fun. Bands like Outkast and Arcade Fire have headlined in past years. Many other musical artists perform each year at Coachella to let you rock out with your bad self! Enjoy dinner in the Rose Garden; don’t forget you can camp on-site!
Don’t forget to explore the boutique to enjoy the works of many local artists. Used LPs are available from the vinyl emporium so that you can relive some of history’s greatest bands.
Local chefs will also serve gourmet delicacies from the terrace so your senses can work out! Plan your trip to attend Coachella as soon as possible, as tickets sell quickly!
What to explore after the Coachella Music Festival
If you’re looking for things to do near Coachella, there are plenty of attractions in the Palm Springs area. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is great for checking out the local scenery.
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, the Joshua Tree National Park is a great option. There are also plenty of museums and art galleries in the area, so you’ll be sure to find something that interests you. Check out these other great day trips from Palm Springs.
Where to stay in Palm Springs
If you’re planning on attending the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance! There are a number of great places to stay near the festival, from camping grounds to family-friendly hotels to luxury hotels.
If you’re looking to take in scenic views or camp, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a great option. The tramway will take you up into the mountains, where you can find a number of campgrounds to choose from. If you like hiking, check out Tahquitz Canyon.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious option, plenty of great hotels are in the area. The Parker Palm Springs hotel is just minutes from the festival grounds.
The Ace Hotel and Spa is another great option, as is the Fantasy. There are also plenty of great options for lodging in Palm Desert.
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6. Songkran Water Festival – Thailand (April 13 – 15)
Who doesn’t like spraying someone else with some cold water? It’s even more fun to get soaked on a hot day, and let’s face it – Thailand can offer some scorching days! At the Songkran Water Festival, the celebration is in conjunction with the observation of the New Year on the calendars of Southern Asia. People will randomly spray others with water guns, and if you get covered in talc or chalk and water, don’t worry. You’ve just been blessed!
Traditionally, throwing water was meant to be a religious experience, and many followed the traditional components of this Festival with prayer and tithing. Beauty contests are often held as everyone assists everyone else in washing away all the bad that has happened to them in the previous year.
What to explore after Songkran Water Festival
The Songkran Water Festival is a great opportunity to explore some of the religious aspects of Thailand. If you’re interested in learning more about the traditional ceremonies and prayers that are observed during the festival, be sure to visit some of the temples in Thailand.
The Songkran Water Festival is also an excellent opportunity to enjoy traditional Thai food. Be sure to try local dishes, such as Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup. You can also enjoy delicious desserts, such as mango with sticky rice.
If you’re looking for something to do during the day, be sure to check out the water fights. These can be fun, and you’ll get soaked in the process.
Where to stay in Bangkok
Looking to join in on the world’s biggest water fight? Or maybe you’d instead participate in some other amazing festivities. Check out our list of the top places to stay for the festival below!
The best hotels in Bangkok for Songkran Water Festival are definitely the Amari Watergate and the Pullman Bangkok Grande Sukhumvit. These hotels offer excellent locations and luxurious amenities to make your stay more enjoyable.
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7. Running of the Bulls (San Fermin Festival – Pamplona, Spain, July 6 to July 14)
With your adrenaline pumping, you hear the pounding footsteps of the mighty bulls behind you. People, slightly panicked yet also slightly enthralled, scramble down the streets to see how far they can get without having a bull give them the worst spanking of their lives!
The San Fermin Festival was actually born from a genuine need: the bulls had to come from outside of the city into the bullring. The run usually takes about 4 minutes, but sometimes it can take as long as ten if a stubborn bull is in the mix!
After the running of the bulls, don’t miss the tomato fight afterward! Those under the age of 18 are forbidden from running with the bulls. It requires cool nerves and fast reflexes, and you’ve got to be in at least somewhat good shape. If not, you’re recommended to be an observer, but that’s all right – this Festival is always an incredible sight!
Where to explore
Once the San Fermin Festival is over, there are still plenty of things to explore in Pamplona! If you’re looking for a little bit of history, be sure to check out the Pamplona Cathedral. This cathedral was built in the 16th century and is home to beautiful architecture.
If you’d like to visit something a little more modern, be sure to check out the Museo de Navarra. This museum houses a collection of contemporary art, as well as archaeological and historical artifacts from the region.
And if you’re looking for something to do during the day, be sure to check out one of the city’s many parks. Parque de la Ciudadela is a great option.
8. Cannes Film Festival – France
The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. Held every year in Cannes, France, the festival showcases some of the best films from around the world. The festival also awards a number of prestigious prizes, including the Palme d’Or (Golden Palm) for the best film.
The Cannes Film Festival is also a popular event for celebrities. A number of high-profile celebrities attend each year, and it’s not uncommon to see stars like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie walking the red carpet.
If you’re a fan of movies, then the Cannes Film Festival is definitely worth checking out. The festival runs for two weeks in May each year, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly!
What to Explore after the Festival
The festival runs for two weeks in May each year, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly! While in Cannes, be sure to check out some of the attractions nearby. Some popular attractions near the Cannes Film Festival include:
Check out the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. This iconic avenue in Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous restaurants and bars. Be prepared to spend money, as these establishments aren’t cheap!
If you’re a fan of history and architecture, then be sure to check out Notre Dame Cathedral while in Paris. This world-famous cathedral is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and for good reason! Notre Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and has been standing since the 12th century.
The Eiffel Tower was named after its designer, Gustave Eiffel. The Tower was built in 1889 as the entrance arch for the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair). At the time, it was the world’s tallest man-made structure. The Eiffel Tower is open to visitors every day of the year except for Christmas Day.
Where to Stay
When attending the Cannes Festival, it’s important to choose the right place to stay. A number of hotels and resorts are located in Cannes, but not all of them are created equal.
If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, then be sure to check out the Carlton Hotel. This iconic hotel is located on the Promenade de la Croisette, the main street in Cannes. The Carlton Hotel has been hosting guests since 1921, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular choice. The hotel features beautiful architecture, a private beach, and a number of top-notch restaurants.
If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, then be sure to check out the Midi Hotel. This hotel is located in the city center of Cannes and offers guests a number of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
Be sure to research these hotels before your trip to choose the one that’s right for you!
9. La Tomatina – Spain (August 27)
Often called the largest tomato fight in the world, La Tomatina is believed to have started around 1945 when some critters in the area ate all the watermelon the locals had gathered.
People threw tomatoes at them to get away, then someone thought it would be funny to throw a tomato at their neighbor, and now everyone throws tomatoes at everyone else!
The festival begins by having people try to climb up a greased pole that has ham on top. When the shots ring out, the tomatoes begin to fly! A classic scene is to see a group of people in the back of a truck throwing out tomatoes like a human-machine gun! Crowd sizes are now limited to 20,000 people, and these tickets sell fast – if you plan on attending, reserve your trip well in advance.
What to explore after La Tomatina
If you’re planning on attending La Tomatina, be sure to research the attractions in the area. Some popular attractions near La Tomatina include checking out the Plaza de Toros. This iconic bullfighting ring is located in Valencia and is a popular tourist attraction.
The City of Arts and Sciences is a large complex constructed in the early 21st century. The complex features a number of museums, theaters, and science museums.
Be sure to research these attractions before your trip to plan which ones you want to visit!
Where to stay
When attending La Tomatina, it’s important to choose the right place to stay. A number of hotels and resorts are located in Valencia, but not all of them are created equal.
If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, then be sure to check out the Hesperia Tower. This iconic hotel is located in the city center of Valencia and offers guests a number of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, then be sure to check out the Midi Hotel. This hotel is located in the city center of Valencia and offers guests a number of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
10. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (October 4 – 12)
Hot air balloons are a classic part of American culture, and during the summer months, many hot air balloons can be seen in the skies across the country. To celebrate these colorful balloons, Albuquerque, the capital of New Mexico, has the benchmark Fiesta that encourages people from around the world to experience the flight of a hot air balloon for themselves.
Even if you want to keep your feet firmly on the ground, seeing hundreds of hot air balloons in the sky simultaneously is an amazing experience! The Fiesta also brings forth local culture and flavors from the First Nations tribes that have called the New Mexico area home for centuries.
Live music also plays each night, chainsaw carving occurs on-site, and a rodeo is held for further entertainment. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the culture of the Western U.S., this is the place!
What to explore after Albuquerque International Balloon
After you’ve experienced the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, be sure to check out some of the other attractions in the area.
The city of Albuquerque is home to a number of museums, including the Explora Museum and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. The city is also home to a number of art galleries, including the Eyebeam Gallery and the Harwood Art Center.
The Sandia Mountains are located just east of Albuquerque and are popular destinations for hikers and mountain climbers. The Sandia Mountains offer a number of trails for all levels of hikers, including the popular La Luz Trail.
If you’re looking for a bit more excitement, be sure to check out the Wild Water West water park. This water park offers a number of activities, and it’s also an excellent spot for a family.
Where to stay
When attending the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, choosing the right place to stay is important. A number of hotels and resorts are located in the area, but not all of them are created equal.
If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, then be sure to check out the Hesperia Tower. This iconic hotel is located in the city center of Albuquerque and offers guests a number of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, then be sure to check out the Midi Hotel. This hotel is located in the city center of Albuquerque and offers guests a number of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
See Related: Best Places to Visit for Your Birthday
11. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York (November 28)
Watching Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on television is a tradition of many American families. Filled with massive balloons and colorful parade floats, the imagination of many a child has been inspired by this parade. Supplemented with live music, marching bands, and some of the year’s hottest celebrities, several hundred thousand people also come out to watch this parade live.
That’s what makes seeing this parade live and in person such a special event. As Americans give thanks for all they have at the end of the year, social barriers are broken down for at least a few hours as everyone commemorates their gratefulness for family, friends, and blessings. Don’t forget to tour Times Square and other New York landmarks like the Statue of Liberty while in town!
What to explore
After watching Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, be sure to explore some of the other attractions in the area. The city of New York is home to a number of museums and art galleries.
Some popular museums and art galleries in the city include the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Guggenheim Museum. The city is also home to a number of Broadway theaters, including the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
If you’re looking for a bit of nature, be sure to check out Central Park. This park is located in the heart of the city and offers visitors a number of activities, including walking, biking, and horseback riding.
Where to stay
Choosing the right place to stay in New York for Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is important. A number of hotels are located nearby, but not all of them are created equal.
If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, then be sure to check out the Plaza Hotel. This historic hotel is located in the center of New York City and offers guests a number of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
Don’t forget to check out the Times Square Hotel when searching for more affordable. This hotel is located in the center of Times Square and offers guests several amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
See Related: Where to Stay in NYC for Sightseeing
Tips on Visiting World Festivals
When attending the world’s best festivals, there are some things you can do to make the most of the experience. Here are some tips:
- Plan ahead. Most world festivals have many activities and events; trying and fitting everything in can be difficult. Plan what you want to see and do before you go so you don’t miss anything important.
- Be open to new experiences. World festivals offer a great opportunity to try new things and see different cultures. Be adventurous and try out some of the food and drinks offered. You may even find a new favorite dish!
- Spend time with the locals. One of the best things about world festivals is getting to know the locals and hearing their stories. Talk to people and learn as much as you can about their culture.
- Dress appropriately. World festivals can be quite festive, and it’s important to dress appropriately. Bring something that will keep you cool in the heat and that you won’t mind getting a little dirty.
- Pack light. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and don’t want to be weighed down by unnecessary gear. A small backpack or cross-body bag will suffice.
- Bring your camera! There will be many amazing things to see and do at a world festival, so bring your camera to capture all the memories.
- Be prepared for crowds. World festivals are often quite popular, so be prepared for large crowds. This can mean long lines and waits for food and other activities.
Other Notable Festivals worth a mention
While our list of the top eleven world festivals will give you lasting memories, more festivals might fit the season or your other unexplored hobbies. Here is a list we think you should consider:
- The Montreux Jazz Festival is an annual jazz festival in Montreux, Switzerland. The festival was founded in 1967 by Claude Nobs. The festival is held at the Montreux Convention Centre and features a wide range of jazz styles, from traditional to contemporary.
- The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is a month-long arts festival in Edinburgh, Scotland, every year. The festival is the largest arts festival in the world and features a number of different activities, including theater performances, comedy shows, and art exhibitions.
- The snow sculpture festival is a winter tradition in many parts of the world. These festivals often feature large-scale sculptures made entirely out of snow and ice. One of the most famous snow sculpture festivals is the Sapporo Snow Festival, which takes place in Sapporo, Japan.
- The Burning Man festival is a week-long event in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada. The festival is described as an “experiment in community and art, ” attracting people worldwide. The festival features a number of different activities, including art installations, live music, and fire performances.
- The Venice Carnival is a popular festival in Venice, Italy, every year. The festival lasts two weeks and features a number of different activities, including parades, concerts, and masked balls.
- If you’re looking for a world-class film festival to attend, be sure to check out the Toronto International Film Festival. This is an important film festival and of the largest in the world. It features a number of different films, including independent films, international films, and Canadian films.
The world has a lot of great festivals to offer. Whether you’re looking for something family-friendly or have an interest in the arts, this list should inspire you on where to go next, as well as what events are worth checking out.
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Katie Featherstone
Wednesday 26th of February 2014
Nice collection. I've been drooling over Coachella's line up for years!