1. Overview of Global Festivals
When we travel, we love immersing ourselves in the culture of a destination, and joining a celebration or festival is the best way to do that. Although the past few years have brought uncertainty to large gatherings, we sincerely hope to see vibrant festivals return to life again.
2. The Biggest Festivals Worldwide
Dave and I seem to have a knack for arriving at the right place at the right time. When visiting various locations, we’ve often stumbled upon unique celebrations occurring during our stay. We’ve had the honor to witness some amazing festivals around the globe.
3. Thaipusam – Malaysia
Thaipusam is an extraordinary Hindu festival that occurs annually in January and February within Tamil communities in Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius. We’ve had the privilege of experiencing this festival twice in Malaysia—at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur and in Penang. The festival is celebrated during the full moon of the Tamil month of Thai, with devotees performing incredible acts of devotion by piercing their bodies as offerings to Lord Muruga.
- When: Annually in January or February
- Where: Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, India, Mauritius
- Duration: Three days
4. Songkran Festival – Thailand
Every year, Thailand celebrates the New Year with the world’s largest water fight, known as Songkran Festival, held on April 13th. This lively event extends to neighboring countries as well, including Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam, with festivities beginning days before and lasting well after. The best place to partake in the celebrations is in Chiang Mai, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
- When: Annually April 13-15
- Where: Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar
- Duration: Three days
5. Holi – India
Holi is famously known as “The Festival of Colours” and celebrates the arrival of spring. This vibrant Hindu festival occurs on the full moon day of the Hindu calendar month, Phalunga. Officially celebrated for two days, people gather across India, particularly in Mathura, the birthplace of Krishna, to participate in colorful festivities, signifying victory over evil.
- When: Annually between February and March
- Where: India
- Duration: Two days
6. Dia De Los Muertos – Mexico
The Day of the Dead festival in Mexico celebrates the return of deceased relatives’ souls from October 31 to November 2. During this period, relatives create altars, dress in colorful costumes, and paint their faces as skulls, signifying remembrance and honoring their loved ones.
- When: Annually October 31 – November 2
- Duration: Three days
7. St. Patrick’s Day – Ireland
Saint Patrick’s Day, celebrated on March 17, honors Ireland’s patron saint. Initially a solemn holiday, it has transformed into a lively celebration characterized by parades and festivities globally. It brings millions together, especially in Dublin, where the celebrations are most vibrant.
- When: Annually March 17
- Duration: One day
- Where: Ireland and many other countries with Irish immigrants
8. Montreux Jazz Festival – Switzerland
The Montreux Jazz Festival, held each summer on the shores of Lake Geneva, showcases a variety of musical acts since its inception in 1967. Originally focused on jazz, it now celebrates all music genres, drawing music enthusiasts from around the world.
- When: Annually during the first two weeks of July
- Duration: Two weeks
- Where: Montreux, Switzerland
9. Montreal Jazz Festival
Taking place at the end of June, the Montreal Jazz Festival is the largest of its kind globally, running for more than 40 years with a plethora of performances that enliven the city. Visitors can enjoy numerous free events and spontaneous performances throughout the city.
- When: Annually, last week of June
- Duration: Ten days
- Where: Montreal, Canada
10. Summerfest – Milwaukee, USA
Summerfest in Milwaukee is celebrated as the world’s largest music festival. Spanning over 40 years, it features numerous stages and showcases both established and up-and-coming artists in a lively atmosphere filled with food and entertainment.
- When: June and July
- Duration: Three weekends starting in late June
- Where: Milwaukee, USA
11. Yi Peng Festival – Thailand
The Yi Peng Festival, held in Chiang Mai, is famous for its stunning lantern releases that light up the night sky. Artfully crafted lanterns are released en masse, creating a breathtaking spectacle for both locals and tourists alike.
12. Loy Krathong – Thailand
Loy Krathong involves placing candles into banana leaf boats and launching them on rivers as a tribute to the Goddess of Water. While this festival offers a more cultural experience, it attracts many visitors who partake in the celebrations.
- When: November on the full moon of the Thai lunar calendar
- Duration: Four days
- Where: Northern Thailand
13. Sziget Festival – Hungary
Sziget Festival is an extensive cultural and music festival in Budapest, occupying a vast island for a week each August. Alongside music, it celebrates arts and interactive installations, attracting a diverse audience.
- When: Every August
- Duration: Ten days
- Where: Budapest, Hungary
14. Mardi Gras – USA
Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an extravagant event marking the day before Ash Wednesday. Known for its lively spirit, this festival combines cultural traditions with a modern party atmosphere, drawing attendees from all over.
- When: Beginning of Lent – 6 weeks before Easter
- Where: New Orleans, USA
15. Carnival – Brazil
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is famed as the world’s largest festival, where locals and tourists partake in samba parades and street parties, celebrating the end of Lent in a vibrant and lively fashion.
- When: Beginning of Lent – 6 weeks before Easter
- Where: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Duration: Six days
16. Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival – China
This festival attracts millions of visitors, showcasing stunning ice sculptures and winter activities. Held in Harbin, it features numerous attractions, making it a must-see event during the winter months.
- When: End of December to late February
- Where: Harbin, China
- Duration: Approximately two days
17. Oktoberfest – Germany
Celebrated annually in Munich, Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival, attracting millions eager to enjoy traditional brews and celebratory activities that honor Bavarian culture.
- When: 16 to 18 days leading up to the first Sunday in October
- Where: Munich, Germany
- Duration: Two weeks
18. Winterlude – Canada
Winterlude, held annually in Ottawa, celebrates winter with snow sculpting competitions and various activities, creating a vibrant winter wonderland each January.
- When: End of January to mid-February
- Where: Ottawa, Canada
- Duration: Two weeks
19. PRIDE – Toronto and New York
Pride festivals worldwide celebrate the LGBTQ community with events promoting social acceptance and legal rights. Toronto’s Pride Festival is known for its vibrant celebrations and events, drawing massive crowds every June.
- When: Month of June in Toronto
- Where: Downtown Toronto
- Duration: One month
20. Toronto International Film Festival – Canada
The Toronto International Film Festival has become a significant event in the film industry, attracting movie lovers and celebrities alike each September for screenings of the latest films.
- When: September
- Where: Toronto, Canada
- Duration: Two weeks
21. La Tomatina – Spain
La Tomatina is the world’s largest food fight, held annually in Valencia where participants throw tomatoes at each other, resulting in a colorful and messy celebration each August.
- When: Last Wednesday of August
- Where: Valencia, Spain
- Duration: One hour
22. Burning Man – United States
Burning Man is a unique festival held annually in the Nevada desert, known for its radical self-expression and community spirit. With thousands in attendance, it combines art, music, and exploration of human experience in an extraordinary way.
- Where: Black Rock City
- When: Labor Day
- Duration: Nine days leading up to Labor Day
These are the most exciting festivals around the world. Have you attended any festivals not mentioned above? We would love to hear your experiences!
