Introduction
Are you a traveler looking for something exciting to experience? Are you looking to explore the world, immerse yourself in a different culture, and take in the sights and sounds that form the fabric of everyday life in a distant nation? If so, attending a festival or event could be the perfect way to do just that.
From the world-famous Oktoberfest in Germany to the awe-inspiring Holi celebrations in India, festivals and events take place around the world every year in different shapes and sizes, offering a unique insight into the cultures they represent.
In this blog post, you’ll find an overview of some of the best festivals and events around the world. Discover what these incredible celebrations have to offer and get inspired for your next trip abroad!
The Burning Man Festival
This annual event, taking place in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada, USA, attracts people from all over the world, with around 80,000 attendees gathering in the desert for this one week event.The Burning Man Festival is known for its radical self-expression and self-reliance; ‘leave no trace’ is encouraged, meaning that all participants are encouraged to pack everything in and out.
Featuring fire performances, DJs, art installations, and interactive workshops, this ‘anything-goes’ attitude makes it an absolute must-see event.
La Tomatina
For those looking for something a bit more light-hearted, La Tomatina in the Spanish town of Buñol is an ideal festival choice. Every year, on the last Wednesday of August, thousands of brave festival-goers gather to take part in the world’s largest food fight. How it works? Well, around 100 tonnes of ripe tomatoes are used in the combat, and participants are encouraged to go wild with the abundance of the juicy fruits. The fight is followed by a huge street party, where everyone gathers to enjoy the music and drink cervezas.
Holi
Also known as The Festival of Color, Holi has a special place in the Hindu calendar as it is believed to celebrate the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Held annually in India and other Hindu countries, this two-day event takes place on the last full moon of the month of Phalguna.
From the celebratory bonfires and mythological stories told around them, to the dazzling array of colors that come alive as people paint each other with vibrant pigments,Holi is the most spectacular festival of color in the world and a truly unforgettable experience.
Rio de Janeiro Carnival
No list of the best festivals and events around the world would be complete without mentioning Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro Carnival. This is one of the most famous and well-attended parties in the world, and for good reason. Taking place during the Catholic festival of Lent, it is a celebration of life and showcases the vibrant rhythms and music of Brazil through elaborate dances and samba parades.
Rio de Janeiro Carnival is actually a series of events and parties, usually taking place over a 4-day period. Samba schools are the heart and soul of the carnival, and they come to life every night in the form of dazzling performances, extravagant costumes and unbeatable energy.
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest, Munich’s famous beer festival originated in 1810 and continues to be the world’s largest folk festival. Taking place in Germany’s Bavarian capital, this event sees thousands of people each year don traditional German costumes and take part in the festivities.
The Oktoberfest lasts for two weeks and has something for everyone; highlights include concerts, culinary delights, fireside chats and of course, plenty of beer from Munich’s six breweries. You’ll also find amusement rides, traditional German food, and a fun fair!
Running of the Bulls
One of the most daring festivals to date, the annual Running of the Bulls (known as the encierro) is a traditional event held in Pamplona, Spain and has been taking place for the past 400 years.
On the morning of the seven-day festival, brave runners take to the streets of the old quarter of Pamplona and take part in the race with six bulls, who are released in the city streets. This is a thrilling event to witness and definitely not one to miss.
La Feria de San Fermin
Another noteworthy event in Spain is La Feria de San Fermin in Pamplona. Popular among locals and tourists alike, the festival features bullfights, traditional parades and canons filled with rose petals, as well as a vibrant nightlife.
From concerts and dances to food markets and even an annual wine bathe, La Feria de San Fermin is an amazing blend of traditional Basque and Spanish culture, making it unmissable for anyone looking for a truly unique experience.
Holi One Color Festival
This travelling festival combines music, performance art, and fun in the form of color battles. Held in countries across Europe and Africa, this celebration of life and unity sees participants covered from head to toe in brightly-colored powder.
The atmosphere is electric and exhilarating, as festival-goers come together to enjoy the music and exchange color bombs with one another. This is one event for those who seek an unforgettable experience – don’t miss the opportunity to join this one-of-a-kind festival.
The Lantern Festival
The Lantern Festival is a Chinese festival that marks the end of the Spring Festival period and is celebrated in many Chinese cities and towns. This spectacular event takes place on the 15th day of the first lunar moth of the year and sees thousands of lanterns lit across the country in celebration.
From traditional red lanterns which are handpainted with folklores and pictures that tell the stories of the city to impressive light-illuminated displays, This festival is the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of Chinese culture and the country’s ancient traditions.
Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival
The Dragon Boat Festival is one of Asia’s most celebrated events, and is held in Hong Kong every June or July as part of the city’s summer Chinese festivals. Opening ceremonies usually take place in Victoria Harbour, where hundreds of dragon boats compete in races across the bay.
The competition takes place over the course of several days, and the final day is perhaps the most visually impressive. On that day, brightly-colored dragon boats with up to 80 paddlers dressed in traditional costumes sail down the harbor, competing for the coveted title of champion.
Combined with traditional ceremonies and performances, this is without a doubt an impressive and vibrant event that cannot be missed.
Yokote Kamakura Festival
The Yokote Kamakura Festival is an annual event that takes place in Yokote, Japan. In the days leading up to the festival, ice houses in the shape of little igloos are built in the middle of the snow-covered fields.
On the evening of the festival, the ice houses are lit up with candles in an effort to bring warmth and happiness to the community.Participants float paper boats with candles in the river that runs near the festival ground, while local officials and children dressed in traditional costumes parade through the streets.
Truly a magical sight to behold, the Yokote Kamakura Festival is definitely worth a visit!
Concluding Thoughts
From the Burning Man Festival in Nevada to the Yokote Kamakura Festival in Japan, a world of exciting festivities awaits travelers to every corner of the sphere.
For a more colorful, immersive and unique experience, these festivals and events are the perfect way to learn more about a country’s culture and get a true taste of everyday life. Get exploring and start planning your next big adventure.