Jane
Festivals offer a vivid window into the culture, history, and creativity of communities around the globe. They gather people in shared spaces where music, food, traditions, and artistry come alive. In 2025, festival travel combines time-honored rituals with modern production standards, improved accessibility, and strong sustainability practices. More events now use eco-friendly materials, digital ticketing, energy-efficient lighting, and structured crowd management. These changes help travelers celebrate responsibly while enjoying smoother, safer, and more immersive experiences.
Below are thirty of the most popular festivals around the world, each with its own signature atmosphere, cultural meaning, and practical tips to help you plan a memorable trip.
30 Must-See Festivals Around the World in 2025
1. Rio Carnival, Brazil
Rio Carnival transforms the entire city into a multi-day celebration filled with samba school parades, blocos, and dazzling costumes. The Sambadrome remains the centerpiece of the event, showcasing thousands of dancers and musicians. Local designers and artisan costume creators create elaborate outfits that reflect months of preparation. Travelers often book accommodations nearly a year in advance, and curated experiences that include smaller neighborhood blocos allow visitors to enjoy a more authentic, crowd-friendly celebration.
2. Holi, India
Holi, the Festival of Colors, celebrates joy, renewal, and community. Streets fill with clouds of bright powders as people gather for music, dancing, and festive meals. Many 2025 Holi events use plant-based, non-toxic powders that are easier to clean and kinder to the environment. Craft vendors offer traditional sweets, herbal colors, and water-resistant apparel suited for celebration.
3. Oktoberfest, Germany
Oktoberfest in Munich draws millions to celebrate Bavarian beer culture, hearty food, and regional music. Craft breweries often introduce special seasonal beers and highlight sustainable brewing methods. Many visitors choose locally made lederhosen, dirndls, and reusable beer steins to enjoy the festival with authenticity and comfort.
4. Diwali, India
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, illuminates cities with clay lamps, fireworks, and family gatherings. Eco-friendly fireworks and handcrafted diyas support both local artisans and safer celebrations. Travelers can explore markets lined with decorations, sweets, textiles, and ready-made gift sets. Many neighborhoods hold community lightings and cultural programs that welcome visitors.
5. Cherry Blossom Festivals, Japan
Cherry blossom season, or hanami, attracts travelers to parks across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other regions. Bloom forecasts are updated frequently, helping visitors plan ideal viewing days. Bento boxes, reusable picnic gear, and compact accessories from Japanese outdoor brands make the experience more comfortable. Many parks now offer special food stalls, themed souvenirs, and guided night viewing events.
6. Mardi Gras, New Orleans, USA
Mardi Gras celebrates Creole culture with parades, masquerade balls, and public festivities. Krewes design elaborate floats and costumes that often take months to construct. New sustainability efforts encourage recyclable parade materials and eco-friendly beads that reduce environmental impact. Neighborhood parades, local music, and traditional cuisine give the festival both grand spectacle and community spirit.
7. La Tomatina, Spain
La Tomatina in Buñol is one of the world’s most unique food fights. Participants throw pre-mashed tomatoes for a chaotic hour of fun under strict safety rules. Goggles, quick-dry clothing, and secure phone cases are recommended essentials. Local shops sell protective footwear and waterproof gear to help visitors stay safe and comfortable.
8. Chinese New Year, China And Beyond
Chinese New Year welcomes the Lunar New Year with parades, dragon dances, lantern displays, and family gatherings. Major celebrations occur in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Chinatowns worldwide. Markets offer paper lanterns, embroidered clothing, and festive gifts. Since travel corridors get crowded during this period, booking early is essential.
9. Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival, USA
Coachella blends major music performances with large-scale art installations and fashion. The 2025 festival features energy-efficient lighting, expanded shade structures, and refill stations that support sustainable attendance. Compact cameras, hydration packs, and comfortable footwear make long days more enjoyable. Merch tents spotlight collaborations with ethical apparel brands.
10. Songkran, Thailand
Songkran marks the Thai New Year with water play, temple visits, and cultural ceremonies. Many cities now designate water zones to improve safety and reduce overcrowding. Travelers typically wear light, quick-dry clothing and carry waterproof bags. Local vendors sell traditional snacks and floral shirts that have become iconic during the festival.
11. Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Scotland
The Edinburgh Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival, showcasing theater, comedy, and experimental performance. In 2025, digital ticketing improvements will make it easier to attend multiple shows in a day. Independent bookshops and craft stores sell posters, prints, and memorabilia tied to standout performances. Street performers and pop-up venues add energy to the city throughout August.
12. Día De Los Muertos, Mexico
Día de los Muertos honors ancestors with altars, marigolds, sugar skulls, and festive gatherings: Oaxaca and Mexico City host particularly vibrant celebrations. Artisan markets sell papel picado, handcrafted figurines, and decorative candles. Cultural tours often include visits to cemeteries and local workshops, offering context behind the symbolism and traditions.
13. Glastonbury Festival, United Kingdom
Glastonbury presents a blend of music, performance art, activism, and global culture. The festival features green camping zones, composting programs, and partnerships with sustainable outdoor brands. Durable tents, solar lanterns, and eco-friendly gear help visitors navigate the large venue. The programming spans multiple genres and artistic experiences.
14. St. Patrick’s Day, Ireland
St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland features parades, music sessions, traditional food, and street festivals. Dublin hosts large public performances and artisan markets. Many visitors purchase local wool goods and knitwear as souvenirs. Craft breweries and pubs offer seasonal beverages that highlight Irish brewing heritage.
15. Carnival Of Venice, Italy
The Carnival of Venice is known for its iconic masks, historical costumes, and elegant balls. Mask makers offer both rentals and bespoke pieces that reflect centuries of craftsmanship. Smaller curated events help preserve historic venues and provide a more intimate festival experience. Visitors often take part in photography tours and costume workshops.
16. Lantern Festivals, Taiwan And Asia
Lantern festivals across Asia feature illuminated displays, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities. Eco-friendly LED lanterns and advanced lighting designs create striking nighttime panoramas. Local artisans sell lantern kits that allow travelers to craft personal keepsakes. Taiwan’s Pingxi sky lantern release remains one of the most famous attractions.
17. Bastille Day, France
Bastille Day celebrates French history with military parades, fireworks, picnics, and concerts. The Champs Élysées parade and the Eiffel Tower fireworks remain signature events. Bakeries and gourmet brands release themed pastries, chocolates, and picnic boxes. Many cities now test sustainable pyrotechnics to reduce environmental impact.
18. Harbin Ice And Snow Festival, China
The Harbin festival showcases towering ice sculptures, illuminated castles, and winter activities. Temperatures can be extremely cold, so insulated clothing, thermal boots, and hand warmers are essential. Visitors can explore ice slides, themed parks, and nighttime displays that cover expansive areas carved from the Songhua River’s ice.
19. Burning Man, USA
Burning Man creates a temporary desert city built on artistic expression, collaboration, and self-reliance. Participants bring solar-powered gear, dust protection, and bicycles suited for the playa. Many camps now feature renewable energy systems and low-impact materials. Large-scale art installations and community participation remain central to the experience.
20. Up Helly Aa, Scotland
Up Helly Aa in Shetland showcases Viking heritage through costumed processions and the ceremonial burning of a wooden longship. Local craftspeople create detailed costumes and props. Since the event takes place in January, visitors need warm layers, gloves, and sturdy boots.
21. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, USA
The Balloon Fiesta fills the sky with hundreds of colorful hot air balloons during early morning launches. Night glow events illuminate the field under a dark sky. Tripods, insulated drinkware, and foldable chairs help enhance comfort during long viewing hours. Photography workshops offer guidance from professionals.
22. Fuji Rock Festival, Japan
Fuji Rock blends international and Japanese music in a scenic mountain setting. Shuttle buses, eco-camping zones, and waste-reduction programs support sustainable travel. Weatherproof clothing, boots, and compact rain gear are recommended due to unpredictable mountain weather.
23. Gion Matsuri, Japan
Gion Matsuri in Kyoto features historic floats, traditional performances, and a centuries-old procession. Local artisans display handcrafted fans, textiles, and accessories. Preservation efforts in 2025 continue to support float restoration and cultural education programs.
24. Tomorrowland, Belgium
Tomorrowland is a world-renowned electronic music festival with imaginative stages, immersive visuals, and global attendance. The 2025 edition integrates advanced lighting and AI-generated visual effects. Compact chargers, secure belt bags, and reusable hydration bottles help visitors enjoy long festival days.
25. Loy Krathong, Thailand
Loy Krathong is a serene celebration where participants float beautifully decorated baskets on rivers and lakes. Markets sell eco-friendly krathongs made from banana leaves and natural materials. Many cities host cultural performances, fire shows, and temple ceremonies.
26. Inti Raymi, Peru
Inti Raymi in Cusco honors the Incan Sun God through reenacted ceremonies, vibrant costumes, and historical performances. Textile markets sell alpaca garments, woven accessories, and traditional crafts. Guided tours often include archaeological sites connected to the festival’s origins.
27. Pushkar Camel Fair, India
The Pushkar Camel Fair blends livestock trading, cultural performances, competitions, and a bustling rural market scene. Travelers can enjoy folk music, handicrafts, and traditional foods. Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for long days under the desert sun.
28. Bonnaroo, USA
Bonnaroo showcases diverse music, immersive art, and a strong sense of community. The festival promotes reusable cup programs and sustainability stations. Lightweight camping gear, hydration packs, and breathable clothing help visitors stay comfortable during multi-day attendance.
29. Venice Biennale, Italy
The Venice Biennale transforms the city into a global art hub with national pavilions and curated exhibitions. Visitors can purchase exhibition guides, art books, and limited edition prints from official vendors. The event highlights cutting-edge contemporary art across multiple media.
30. Sziget Festival, Hungary
Sziget in Budapest is a weeklong cultural and music festival featuring international headliners, dance stages, workshops, and art zones. Green camping options and diverse food markets support a sustainable visitor experience. A compact daypack and reusable water bottle help when navigating the island’s many venues.
Planning Tips For Festival Travel In 2025
Planning is essential, especially for high-demand festivals. Book flights and accommodations early since many events sell out months in advance. Official festival apps provide schedules, venue maps, transport tips, and digital tickets. Support local artisans by buying handmade crafts, eco-friendly clothing, and reusable travel accessories.
Consider travel insurance that covers schedule changes or weather-related delays. Check local safety guidelines, permitted items, and recommended gear. With festivals increasingly focused on sustainability and visitor convenience, thoughtful preparation helps ensure a fun, responsible, and rewarding experience in every destination.
