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Every country in the world is known for its uniqueness, culture, language, and lifestyle, and festivals are one way of showing off that unique culture and heritage. They also play a pivotal role in bringing people with different religions, economic and social backgrounds together onto one stage where they can forget their differences and celebrate as one entity! In this article, we have listed some of the most distinguished and world famous festivals you should be a part of at least once in your life!
39 World Famous Festivals To Attend
Take a look at all these amazing festivals of the world that will introduce you to a plethora of diverse cultures and traditions across the world and tell you how tiny a space you occupy on this planet. Pick the ones you’d like to attend on your next getaway!
- Donauinselfest
- Mawazine
- Summerfest
- International Fest de Jazz de Montréal
- Newport Jazz Festival
- New Orleans Jazz And Heritage Festival
- Venice International Film Festival
- Cannes Film Festival
- Berlin Film Festival
- Salon de Chocolate
- Dandiya Nights
- Nuit Blanche
- Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
- Takayama Festival
- Halloween
- Thanksgiving Day
- Tawang Festival
- Louisiana Pecan Festival
- Austin Celtic Festival
- The Great Jack-o-Lantern Blaze
- Niagara Falls Festival Of Lights
- Pizzafest
- Bacon Festival
- Wildfoods Festival
- Berlin International Literature Festival
- Cheltenham Literature Festival
- Brooklyn Book Festival
- Conrad Festival
- Buenos Aires Book Festival
- Black Necked Crane Festival
- Guatemala Kite Festival
- Bundi Utsav
- Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival
- Guru Nanak Jayanti
- Golden Eagle Festival
- Quebec Winter Carnival
- Hogmanay Festival
- Dev Deepawali
- Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival
1. Donauinselfest
Vienna is home to some of the talented musical geniuses and it is now home to the biggest and most famous music festivals in the world. Donauinselfest is a popular music festival held every year on a beautiful island. This festival is attended by less or more, a whopping 3.1 million people every year. It is a free and open-air concert held at the beginning of every summer. The festival comprises more than 200 acts performed by various artists on around 11 stages.
Where: Vienna, Austria
When: June
Also Read: Austrian Festivals
2. Mawazine
The Mawazine Festival held in Morocco is a testament to how much Africans love to party and enjoy themselves. Organized in Morocco annually, this festival is attended by approximately 2.65 million people. Mawazine is known to organize huge acts performed by top artists both international and from Africa. Top performers include Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Rod Stewart, Amadou & Mariam, and Tinariwen. Mawazine Festival is a tribute to African music and was introduced to celebrate the Moroccan culture and arts. It is no doubt the most famous music festival in the world.
Where: Rabat, Morocco
When: June
Related Post: Best Places To Visit In Morocco
3. Summerfest
One of the cheapest, people’s parties and world famous festivals is the Summerfest. It is also one of the largest festivals in the United States and is organized for 11 days. More than 800,000 punters and 800 acts are conducted every year during this festival. In 2017, this festival celebrated its 50th birthday with Pink, Bob Dylan and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Where: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
When: June-July
Related Post: Places To Visit In Wisconsin
4. International Fest de Jazz de Montréal
Performed by various artists and musicians, it is one of the most famous jazz festivals around the world. Every year organized for 10 days in Canada this festival is ranked as the globe’s largest music festival. Every year this metropolis trumpets with liveliness where all the jazz aficionados groove and enjoy. Held annually every year, this festival features around 3000 artists who perform their best pieces across various places. This festival is attended by more than 2 million visitors, both locals and tourists. The concerts of this festival are held in a wide variety of venues, including the downtown business corridor, free outdoor stages to indoor concert halls.
Where: Downtown Montreal, Quebec, Canada
When: June – July
Related Post: Quebec Summer Festival
5. Newport Jazz Festival
Another in the list of the famous jazz festivals around the world is the Newport Jazz Festival. This mega jazz event of America was founded back in 1954 by Elaine Lorillard to introduce jazz in Rhode Island. George Wein was hired to organize the first festival. Held every summer, this festival attracts jazz lovers from across the world and stays on the bucket list of many. Live music performed by the biggest artists of jazz, together with the scenic seaside allure is sure to leave you imprinted with many memories.
Where: Fort Adams State Park, Newport, Rhode Island, United States
When: July
Related Post: Best Fall Foliage Train Rides In The United States
6. New Orleans Jazz And Heritage Festival
New Orleans is known for its vibrant live music scene, nightlife, and spicy cuisine. Besides this, it is also known for its oldest and world-famous festival – New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. This festival shows an incredible diversity of blues, gospel and jazz that are influenced by the African-American culture and history. However, this festival is a major tourist destination and economic importance for New Orleans.
Where: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
When: April
Related Post: Things To Do In New Orleans
7. Venice International Film Festival
Held annually every year, the Venice International Film Festival is a cultural event and one of the most famous film festivals in the world. Passion for arts runs through Venice and this festival is a clear example to prove that. Dating back to 1932, this festival is one of the oldest events in the city and the world. The festival is managed by the Italian Foundation – Biennale and they also manage several events that are dedicated to theatre, architecture, music, dance, and more. Some of the exceptionally great movies that debuted this fest and become big hits are Gravity, La La Land, The Shape of Water and Roma.
Where: Venice, Italy
When: August – September
Related Post: Venice Carnival
8. Cannes Film Festival
Another in the list of most famous film festivals in the world is this exclusive film event that graces the city of Cannes. Attended by several huge celebrities and rising stars, the Cannes Film Festival is a grand event organized every year. The festival’s award, the Palme d’Or is a greatly desired dream of every artist. You can see a lavish red carpet swarming with these famous and well-dressed celebrities and hopeful contenders near the city’s yacht-lined harbour for this award. Besides the screening of the new movies, Cannes has also become a great platform for many attendees to share the message of gender equality in the entertainment industry.
Where: Cannes, France
When: May
Related Post: Camping In France
9. Berlin Film Festival
Honouring all the greatest films around the world, this festival is held in the party place and artistic capital of Germany. Open to the public this festival is also referred to as the Berlinale Film Festival – the real moniker of Berlin. Every year this festival screens 400 films each year and attracts a huge crowd including both celebrities and commoners. In 2018, around 3,700 journalists, 18,000 film professionals, and thousands of the general public attended this event.
Where: Berlin, Germany
When: February
Related Post: Berlin In December
10. Salon de Chocolate
Chocolate is loved by all and you see many festivals organized around the globe but nothing can beat this one. Ecuador is the producer of top-quality chocolate in the world and this festival is certainly the best to try them. Also, the chocolate sculpture competition is held at this festival, which is a delight to watch.
Where: Quito, Ecuador
When: June
Related Post: Places To Visit In Ecuador
11. Dandiya Nights
India’s great festive season, Durga Puja and Navratri, brings the most awaited event- Dandiya Nights. Filled with electrifying music, traditional Gujarati dance, and joyous spirit, Dandiya Nights is a great time to pay homage to Goddess Durga with unity and happiness and have the best time with your loved ones. The thrilling beats of songs of various Indian songs and dhols create a mind-blowing festive vibe, making you move your feet with zeal, happiness, and excitement. So, prepare to choose your best attire and polish your traditional dandiya moves.
Where: Ahmedabad, India
When: September – October
Related Post: Dandiya Nights
12. Nuit Blanche
Image Credit: art_inthecity for Wikimedia Commons
Nuit Blanche, also known as the white night, is an annual all-night arts festival that has gained international prominence since its inception. This Festival originated in 2002 and spread to multiple cities around the world. De facto art galleries provide a space for art installations, dance performances, music, films, social gatherings and other activities. A Nuit Blanche is free of charge and offers museums, art galleries, and other cultural institutions.
Where: Paris, France
When: October
Related Post: Nuit Blanche
13. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is an annual hot-air balloon festival around the first week of October in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. It is a nine-day event involving over 500 hot-air balloons participating yearly. As the fall season approaches and temperatures drop, the balloons in Albuquerque begin to rise. The colourful & many-hued balloons dot the sky like many paper lanterns floating in a stream of clear blue water. Furthermore, special shape balloons are launched at the same time and made to race against each other.
Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico, US
When: First week of October
Related Post: Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
14. Takayama Festival
Image Credit: Daderot for Wikimedia Commons
The Takayama festival is the third largest, held twice yearly in spring and autumn. The festival aims to thank the farmers for successfully harvesting their crops. The tall and heavily decorated floats are stored in the appropriate stores scattered around the old town. Get a chance to experience the “truly heavenly” and find the best winter trip with your loved ones. The colourful and stunning decorations, along with a display of festival floats, Karakuri performances, Mikoshi processions, and evening festivals are the main attractions.
Where: Takayama, Japan
When: 14th – 15th of April and the 9th – 10th of October
Related Post: Takayama Festival
15. Halloween
Trick-or-treat season is approaching. The craze for this spooky festival is frenzied, as it is one of the most exciting times of the year. Kooky costumes and scary decorations are among the most common ways to celebrate Halloween. If eerie and supernatural things excite you, there are many places to visit during Halloween that will add an extravaganza experience to your Halloween diaries.
Where: Many countries
When: 31st October
Related Post: Places To Visit During Halloween
16. Thanksgiving
Image Credit: Kaboompics.com for Pexels
Thanksgiving is about to arrive, bringing vibrant ambience, lip-smacking cuisine, and families together. This year, it is time to celebrate Thanksgiving with a unique touch- engaging in thrilling adventures, exploring new places, and enjoying delicious foods in world-renowned restaurants and beaches. Savour feasts that feature turkey, pumpkin pie, and stuffing with your loved ones. Further, participate in the annual Turkey Trot, a festive run that embraces the community spirit and Thanksgiving parades.
Where: North America
When: 4th Thursday of November
Related Post: Places To Visit During Thanksgiving
17. Tawang Festival
Ready to experience the rich cultural landscape of Arunachal Pradesh? Tawang Festival presents just the right opportunity. Celebrated in the last week of October, this street carnival is a festival that commemorates and upholds the traditions of the indigenous tribal communities residing in Tawang Valley. Art meets heritage at this festival which features folk music, vibrant dances, drama and street-style theatre, showcasing the beauty of the culture of the Monpa tribe. Witness traditional war dances, yak dances, and snow lion dances, and enjoy delicious food.
Where: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India
When: First week of November
Related Post: Tawang Festival
18. Louisiana Pecan Festival
Celebrating the significance of pecan crops in the region, the Louisiana Pecan Festival is one of the most famous annual festivals in the USA. The festival is celebrated in Colfax during the first weekend of November and captures the attention of cultural observers worldwide. The festival is a huge crowd-puller, filled with many activities and events, such as live music, food courts, a grand parade, arts and crafts booths, etc. Whether you are fond of pecan pies, or looking for a place to enjoy carnival rides, the Pecan Festival in Louisiana is the perfect place to head on to.
Where: Colfax, Lousiana, USA
When: November
Related Post: Lousiana Pecan Festival
19. Austin Celtic Festival
Celebrating Celtic traditions and rich cultural heritage, the two-day festival invites people worldwide to participate in the grand festivity. Musical shows, dance performances, workshops, animal exhibits, and other events provide a mesmerising experience to all attendees. Register for Highland Games or Celtic dog parades to add a unique dimension to the festive celebration. So, book your tickets to the Austin Celtic Festival and have a memorable time at the festival by unifying yourself with the vibrant atmosphere of Celtic culture.
Where: Austin, Texas, USA
When: November
Related Post: Austin Celtic Festival
20. The Great Jack-o-Lantern Blaze
Various autumn celebrations and festivals fill the calendar, and the Great Jack-O-Lantern Blaze is a memorable experience attracting many visitors worldwide. This annual Halloween event is initially held in the Hudson Valley region of New York and shows the history, artists’ work and seasonal spirit of Halloween. This attracts an audience of all ages with breathtaking illuminated pumpkins. This festival has become one of the top acts in the arts and theatre world, delighting numerous visitors with a one-of-a-kind show.
Where: New York, USA
When: From September to November
Related Post: The Great Jack-O-Lantern Festival
21. Niagara Falls Festival Of Lights
Image Credit: JR for Wikimedia Commons
The Winter Festival of Lights is celebrated annually in Niagara Falls in Ontario, Canada, in the winter season. It is the largest such festival in Canada, with millions of lights illuminating every corner and corridor of the region. The festival goes on from mid-November to mid-January – for a whopping 51 days, the entire district is decorated, embellished, and ornamented in a dazzling glow of twinkling lights. Enjoy this stunning outdoor festival with your family and friends at zero cost, yes zero. Explore events & places like the Sparkling Winter Lights Show, Hot Chocolate Trail, Table Rock Welcome Centre, Maid Of The Mist, and Queen Victoria Park.
Where: Niagara Falls, Canada
When: Third week of November to first week of January
Related Post: Niagara Falls Festival Of Lights
22. Pizzafest
Italy is the birthplace of every second person’s favourite – Pizza. Every night in the month of June, Naples becomes a pizza village, where more than 100000 pizzas of different kinds are consumed by visitors. Pizzafest is certainly the best place to try the yummy, classic and 50-odd historic version of pizzas.
Where: Naples, Italy
When: June
Related Post: Snorkeling In Naples
23. Bacon Festival
Come and be a guest at one of the world-famous festivals that is held on the open streets of Sacramento. Serving great dishes such as bacon gelato, bacon tater tots, bacon ramen and bacon salad on offer, no wonder this fest is popular among bacon lovers.
Where: Sacramento, California
When: February
Related Post: Hikes In Northern California
24. Wildfoods Festival
All the non-vegetarians who never shy away from trying something new, which they have never seen or heard of, then, this festival is just for you. Offering a variety of food, that probably is not cooked for our regular meals, this festival is feasted by many visitors. Seagull eggs, mountain oysters, possum cutlets, beetle grubs, earthworms, frog legs, and snails in garlic are some of the dishes that can be found here.
Where: Hokitika, New Zealand
When: March
Related Post: Canyoning In New Zealand
25. Berlin International Literature Festival
Come to this 12-day festival if you are a true book lover and want to know about everything innovative and new in the world of literature. You will find everything from the latest prose, poetry, children, adolescents, and fictional literature under one roof. Many new writers show their work and also premiere reading at this festival.
Where: Berlin, Germany
When: September
Related Post: Day Trips from Berlin
26. Cheltenham Literature Festival
Eagerly anticipated event of Cheltenham, this festival run for 10 days has been commanding the attention of a huge crowd since 1949. Over 600 local and international debaters, opinion-formers, authors, actors, and poets showcase their work. You can indulge in reading and book signing, debate or bring kids to watch their favourite story-book characters.
Where: Cheltenham, England
When: October
Related Post: Festivals In England
27. Brooklyn Book Festival
This is one of the world-famous book festivals held at various places across Brooklyn and is the largest free literary event too. Run for a week, this festival attracts loads of bookworms from around the globe. You can meet your favourite authors, get the books signed and also find many emerging writers. The Saturday Children’s Day and Sunday Festival Day are a few other highlights of this festival.
Where: Brooklyn, New York City, U.S
When: September – October
Related Post: Summer In New York
28. Conrad Festival
Conrad Book Fest is the largest literature festival in central Europe and is dedicated mostly to budding talents in literature. Several musicians, artists, actors, and others who are interested in culture also attend this festival. This festival hosts a variety of literature from Polish to international dedicated to poetry, fiction, non-fiction, prose, and children’s literature. Each year one emerging author is presented with the Conrad Award too.
Where: Poland, Europe
When: October
Related Post: Festivals In Poland
29. Buenos Aires Book Festival
Another world-famous book festival you can attend is this 20-day event held in Buenos Aires, Argentina. More than one million participants and visitors visit this festival every year. It is held on the grounds of the Argentine Rural Society. About 500 exhibitors are spread over this 450 sqm ground and offer the best to every age group.
Where: Buenos Aires, Argentina
When: April – May
30. Black Necked Crane Festival
Celebrated on 11 November every year, the Black Necked Crane Festival marks the entry of the migratory birds, black-eyed cranes from Tibet, to represent their significant role in nature and the need to preserve them. As a cultural enthusiast, history buff, nature lover, or zealot, witnessing the grand Black Necked Crane Festival is an absolute must. If you plan to visit Bhutan, there is no better time than early November. Witness traditional songs and dances, Crane watching tours, participate in environmental awareness programmes, and taste local culinary delights.
Where: Gangtey Gonpa, Gangteng-Phobji Valley, Wangdurphodrang District, Central Bhutan
When: 11th November
Related Post: Black Necked Crane Festival
31. Guatemala Kite Festival
Are you ready to see some of the biggest kites you will ever see? Organised on the first of November each year, the Guatemala Kite Festival is a fascinating melange of tradition and art. Celebrated every year on All Saints Day, with this festival the Guatemalans commemorate the lives of their ancestors, saints, and all souls that have passed to the other realm. Most Latin American countries celebrate Dia de Los Muertos or Day of the Dead; in Guatemala, the day is an occasion for cheer, celebration, and remembrance. See creativity and Mayan heritage on full display with vibrant kites made out of traditional patchwork textiles & papers soaring the skies at one of the top world famous festivals.
Where: Sumpango, Guatemala
When: 1st November
Related Post: Guatemala Kite Festival
32. Bundi Utsav
The Bundi Utsav is not only a festival but also a stunning experience that captures the essence of India in all its glory. It is an annual culture and tourism festival celebrated in Bundi, Rajasthan. This vibrant festival showcases Bundi’s rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and traditional art forms. The traditional activities and folk music become the central attraction of the festival, showing the cultural history of Rajasthan. Apart from the traditional activities, one can experience several competitions as a part of the extravaganza of the festival.
Where: Bundi, Rajasthan, India
When: November
Related Post: Bundi Utsav
33. Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival
Happening annually around October in the seventh month of the Burmese lunar calendar, this three-week festival is celebrated on the picturesque & captivating Lake Inle, nestled in the Shan state of Myanmar. The festival is a Buddhist religious procession where Images of Lord Gautam Buddha are taken from the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda and circulated across the towns and villages lying on the banks of the Inle Lake on gilded barges, which worshippers welcome with great devotion & love. Stroll through the streets of Ywama village, and marvel at the beauty of the other floating villages on Lake Inle. Visit the pagoda and the nearby floating markets where local craftsmen, traders and artists sell their wares.
Where: Taunggyi District, Shan State of Myanmar
When: Between October and November
Related Post: Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival
34. Guru Nanak Jayanti
Image Credit: Marsmux for Wikimedia Commons
Known as Guru Nanak’s Prakash Utsav, Gurpurab and Guru Nanak Parv, this festival holds great significance for the Sikh community and is celebrated as the occasion of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh gurus. Gurudwaras are the perfect place to witness the blissful charm and grand celebration of this festival. Participate in kirtans, visit your nearby gurudwaras, pay homage, and savour delicious langar to take part in the celebration.
Where: All across the world, India
When: November
Related Post: Guru Nanak Jayanti
35. Golden Eagle Festival
Experience the grandeur of the Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia, wherein the Kazakh hunters participate from near and far to be a part of the festival. Portraying the rich culture and traditions via the festival, the locals ensure that these carry forward with generations to come. The hunters train golden eagles for months and years for the festival and showcase their talent and the region’s history. If you are a history buff, zealot, or cultural enthusiast, witness the festival celebration and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Where: Ulgii, Mongolia
When: Between September and October
Related Post: Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia
36. Quebec Winter Carnival
Image Credit: Boréal for Wikimedia Commons
There is nothing like experiencing the world’s largest winter carnival by planning a trip to Quebec City. One of the top world famous festivals, Quebec Winter Carnival Festival is held annually and attracts many tourists from around the globe to gain the charm of winter in this unique festive atmosphere. Tourists can enjoy various events and festivals of all ages, like snow concerts, night parades, ice skating, etc. You can also explore the old town, which feels like you are in Europe.
Where: Quebec City, Canada
When: February
Related Post: Quebec Winter Carnival
37. Hogmanay Festival
Celebrate New Year with a tint of uniqueness, sparkle, and vibrancy. Scotland hosts this three-day world famous New Year celebration called Hogmanay with zeal, excitement, and traditions. The burst of beautiful firecrackers, opening parades, impeccable culinary delights, concerts, live shows, and whatnot make the festival memorable. Attend events like the Torchlight Procession, concerts in the gardens, and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay street party.
Where: Edinburgh, Scotland
When: New Year
Related Post: Hogmanay Festival
38. Dev Deepawali
Image Credit: Dymov_d for Depositphotos
As the cold air of November settles over Varanasi, this beautiful city prepares to celebrate the biggest festival of light, Dev Deepawali. Translated as ‘the Diwali of Gods’, this festival turns Varanasi into a breathtaking canvas of light and devotion. Millions of diyas (earthen lamps) flicker on the holy river of Ganges as devotees believe that Gods have descended to celebrate their triumph over Tripurasura, a demon. Dev Deepawali takes place on the full moon of the Hindu month of Kartik, mostly 15 days after Diwali.
Where: Varanasi
When: Between October and November
Related Post: Dev Deepawali In Varanasi
39. Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival
The Cherry Blossom Festival In Shillong exemplifies the significance of the natural beauty and rich heritage of Meghalaya to the cultural identity of its people. Cherry Blossom trees blooming in November are the centre of attention. The deliciously fragrant pink and white petals embellish the entire city with a magical atmosphere that enchants all visitors. The cultural fiesta also includes a showcase of indigenous art forms and dances along with your favourite pop, rock, EDM, and rap artists performing will leave you dreamy-eyed.
Where: Shillong, Meghalaya, India
When: November
You May Also Like To Read: Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival
In today’s world, it gets difficult for people with hectic schedules to experience the joy of discovering new cultures and traditions. This is why we suggest you take a vacation to the most wonderful destinations of the world and witness these vibrant world-famous festivals at least once to know what you’re missing out on in your daily routine. And if we missed out on any important festival in this list, let us know in the comments below.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The World Famous Festivals
What is the best celebration in the world?
Rio Carnival – Brazil, New Year’s Eve – Sydney, St Patrick’s Day NYC, Full Moon Party – Koh Phangan, and Oktoberfest – Germany are a few famous world celebrations.
What is the biggest festival in the world?
Glastonbury Festival is held in Somerset, the United Kingdom is the world’s biggest festival in the world.
How many festivals are there in the world?
There are around 35 best festivals in the world, each celebrated in a different and unique way.
Is Coachella bigger than Glastonbury?
Well, Glastonbury is bigger in size than Coachella but a larger number of crowd attains Coachella.
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A keen observer, an avid reader, a complete foodie, a pet lover and a curious entrepreneur with a vision to empower women. Penning down thoughts and musings come naturally, so, what better way to make a living than do what you love the most. Sujata started off as a content writer and today spearheads a content agency with an all-women team, where each day is about exploring the strength within, overcoming challenges and aiming to scale new heights. Her idea of a holiday well spent is visiting beautiful destinations, experimenting with food and trying out adventure activities.
