Finding the ‘authentic’ experience when on holiday is what we’re all about, and there’s no better way to see a place than when the streets are alive with locals putting on a spectacle.
Visiting a city during a cultural celebration is a sure way of adding an extra dimension to your trip, so we’ve pulled together a list of festivals around the world you won’t want to miss – from Munich’s popular Oktoberfest, to lesser-known festivals in Papua New Guinea and Ljubljana.
January events and celebrations
The Harbin Ice & Snow Festival, China
If you’re not put off by sub-zero temperatures then China’s ‘Ice City’ Harbin is worth a visit. From 5th January onwards, the nation’s most northerly province hosts the largest winter festival in the world. You’ll see the biggest ice sculptures in the world and a huge Buddha made out of snow. Harbin Ice and Snow World is full of activities too, including ice-skating, skiing, rock-climbing, snow fights, ice golf and ice archery. There is an ice maze and ice hotel too.
In the evening visitors can attend the Ice Lantern Garden Party which features the biggest artistic collection of ice lanterns in the world.
Due to its location the weather is usually always cold, with temperatures averaging at -7°C during the day, but -20°C at night. Originally the event was mainly locals but now attracts tourists from all over the world.
Where to stay: The Songbei District in Harbin is conveniently located for the ice festival.
Kayak’s tip: Also take time to visit the historical district of Lao Daowai to see the Chinese-baroque buildings and eat traditional Chinese food.
The International Kite Festival, India
Locals in the westernmost state of Gujarat Uttarayan spend months making elaborate, colourful kites to fly at the International Kite Festival – an important date in the Indian calendar.
During the second week of January the vision of kites flying from dawn until dusk is a sight to behold. The celebration, which started in 1989, is to toast the end of winter and start of summer. It’s said the kites symbolize the spirits of the gods waking up from their deep winter sleep.
Ahmedabad, the state’s largest city, is the place to be for the most lively celebrations, particularly on January 14, when the atmosphere is electric.
Where to stay: You’ll find a selection of Ahmedabad accomodation options here.
Kayak’s tip: You’ll find an incredible atmosphere on the banks of the Sabarmati River to watch the kites fly. It’s a popular viewing spot.
February cultural celebrations
Rio Carnival, Brazil
Put on your comfy shoes and dance to your heart’s content during Rio De Janeiro’s iconic Carnival. The images of scantily-clad dancers energetically throwing shape on board floats across the city are world-famous.
The celebrations kick off on February 17 and last for five days, with the final night renowned for having the best parties. You’ll find samba beats and street-parties at every turn with everyone united in their desire to have a great time. Just make sure you pace yourself so you can last the five days. The Brazilians are pretty hard-core partygoers.
Where to stay: The beachfront neighbourhoods are all brilliant but we recommend the Ipanema area.
Kayak’s tip: Don’t miss the parades at the Sambadrome event as they are known for being the best.
Shrovetide Dragon Festival, Ljubljana, Slovenia
You shouldn’t need an excuse to visit the happening city of Ljubljana in Slovenia, but what better time to go than during the little known Shrovetide festival each February or March. This celebration, steeped in Pagan tradition and dating back hundreds of years, sees some other-worldly creatures descend on the streets as locals don traditional attire and parade through the city to welcome spring.
You’re unlikely to find a more authentic celebration anywhere in the world, but be ready to be spooked by homemade masks and terrifying costumes which are said to fright away the winter spirits.
Where to stay: Vander Urbani is in the heart of the action.
Kayak’s tip: The best known celebrations are found in the town of Ptuj, 85 miles east of the city.
March world celebrations
Mardi Gras, New Orleans, USA
New Orleans is a fun place to visit at any time. But for 4-8 weeks, the city is even more colourful and lively than usual as New Orleans builds up to the climax event of Mardi Gras which take place in the latter half of March.
Often referred to as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras was originally an occasion of eating rich foods ahead of the fasting during the Christian holiday of Lent. The city has really put its stamp on the celebration, with piousness taking second place to jazz, blues and late night parties in true Louisianan style.
You’ll see street processions with loud music, dancers decked out in colourful outfits and elaborately decorated floats passing through the city. If you want to learn more about the history of Mardi Gras there is a museum filled with some of the best ever outfits.
Where to stay: We recommend staying in the heart of the action in the French Quarter.
Kayak’s tip: for Preservation Hall is a must-visit historical venue for the best live music.
Holi Festival, India
We could all benefit from a bit more colour in out lives. But if you want a lot more – literally – then head to India at the end of March where the Holi celebrations are big and bold!
Thousands of tourists flock to join colours at this vibrant celebration which signals the end of winter. Public squares in the towns and cities are jam-packed with people joining together commemorate the victory of good over evil. Celebrated by Hindus across Asia and the world, the biggest events take place in India, with each region adding a local twist.
Where to stay: We suggest heading to Mathura, in the Braj region of India, as it is synonymous with the Hindu God of the Holi festival, Lord Krishna.
Kayak’s tip: Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting ruined as you will get absolutely covered in colourful powder!
St Patrick’s Day, Dublin, Ireland
Does anyone know how to party better than the Irish? Annually on the 17th March, the Feast of St Patrick is a time for celebration in honour of the foremost patron saint of Ireland. Although celebrated around the world by the Irish diaspora, for a true celebration of Irish culture, warmth and the best quality Guinness, Dublin is the place to be. There’s a huge procession through the city so don your finest emerald green outfit, but avoid the classic Irish stereotypes – leprechauns are a no go if you want to fit in with the locals.
Where to stay: For the best atmosphere stay in Temple Bar. We can’t guarantee you a peaceful night’s sleep though.
Kayak’s tip: Book your accommodation early as more than 500,000 people visit the city for St Patrick’s Day.
April events and celebrations
Kings Day, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
This rowdy street festival is a staple of the Dutch party calendar. Taking place on the 27th April each year, locals celebrate the King’s birthday by dressing in the royal colour: orange. Head to the centre of the action in Amsterdam, where the canals become home to floating revellers in boats of all shapes and sizes, and flea markets pop up throughout the city. You’ll find free parties cross the city but the best ones are in the Westerstraat, Prinsengracht and Reguliersdwarsstraat.
As the sun sets, King’s Night begins, showcasing some of the best electronic music from around the world. So raid your wardrobe and your local second hand shop for orange accessories, slap on the face paint, get out and get seen!
Where to stay: There are a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets across the city.
Kayak’s tip: Don’t burn out after night one as King’s Day is actually more like King’s weekend.
Semana Santa, Antigua, Guatemala
Each year the week at Easter, the narrow cobbled streets of Antigua are adorned with “alfombras” – colourful carpets made of sawdust, flowers, pine needles and fruit to celebrate the religious festival of Semana Santa. Brilliant geometric patterns and vivid colours fill the streets, before being swept away by the rather sombre procession of enormous floats which re-enact the final days of Jesus Christ.
Where to stay: Antigua Seaview is located in the heart of the capital of Saint John’s.
Kayak’s tip: We recommend joining an organised tour to experience all that Semana Santa has to offer.
Songkran Festival, Thailand
No-one is spared from a soaking at this country-wide water fight. Originating as part of a ceremony to celebrate Buddhist New Year, the pouring of water over Buddha statues has morphed into a day-long drenching for anyone that steps outside. Celebrated annually on the April 13 across Thailand, bring your water pistol and help usher in a New Year. Your super-soaker will never be a match for the ultimate water-weapon – an elephant’s trunk!
Where to stay: We recommend staying in Bangkok where the celebrations are the most raucous. (which is saying something in Bangkok!) The biggest celebrations are in Khao San Road and Silom.
Kayak’s tip: Have a protection case on your camera – or don’t bring it with you – as you will be getting soaked.
May global festivals
Cherry Blossom Festival, Japan
Japan is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year, but when blossoms blanket the landscape in pale pink, it becomes particularly magical. Sakura (cherry blossoms) bloom between late March and May, and are a spectacle not to be missed. Dedicated Sakura watchers can travel Northwards throughout the season and follow the pink flowers through the country. Visitors love to dress in flowing skirts and pastel colours and enjoy picnics under the trees.
Where to stay: In Yoshino for the best place to view the blossoms is from the top of Mount Yoshino where you can see 30,000 cherry trees at the same time. Stunning!
Kayak’s tip: This is a very popular celebration so plan your journey carefully as the trains get very busy.
Procession of the Holy Blood, Belgium
An unusual Catholic Procession in the Belgian city of Bruges takes place on Ascension Day. Dating back to 1303, so important is the ritual that it has gained UNESCO World Heritage status, as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
40 days after Easter, people line the streets of the chocolate-box city in the afternoon of ‘Holy Blood Day’ to watch a 3000-strong procession led by a vicar holding a vial of blood, believed to be from Jesus Christ. The procession starts from the Basilica of the Holy Blood chapel where the vial is safely kept throughout the year. Those in the parade are dressed in robes, armoury or outfits to represent scenes from the Bible.
Where to stay: You’ll get great views if you stay near the 12th century chapel where the procession starts, before travelling along the Dijver canal.
Kayak’s tip: If you want to join the procession you must get tickets in advance from the tourist office.
June festivals around the world
Haro Wine Festival, Spain
Dating back to the 6th century, The Batalla de Vino, which translates as the Wine Battle is simply put; a water fight, but with sticky wine.
At the end of June, around the day of their patron saint, Saint Pedro, locals in La Rioja town of Haro attend mass around 7am before spraying red wine over each other with water pistols. (or buckets if they want to be extra mucky!)
Don’t panic at the thought of good wine going to waste, for the wine used is pretty awful stuff.
It’s not exactly known why this has become an annual tradition but it’s believed to be have started after an argument with the neighbouring town of Miranda de Ebro in the early 13th century.
If you want to join in the erm, fun, it’s suggested you wear a white t-shirt (that you don’t mind ruining) so that you end up looking like a purple grape by the end of it all. Great pictures guaranteed! (you might want to keep the camera locked away during the wine fight though!)
Where to stay: Luz Hotel is a 10-minute walk from Haro’s main square.
Kayak’s tip: Make sure you bring your own water pistol so you can get the full experience.
Inti Raymi Festival, Cusco, Peru – 24 June
Inti Raymi, or The Inca Festival of the Sun is a traditional religious ceremony of the Inca Empire in honour of the god Inti. It is the most important Incan festival, held annually in Cusco annually on June 24 to mark the end of the winter.
The tradition started as desperate locals pleaded the sun god to return and help bring their crops back to life after the cold winter. On the morning of solstice, the people of Cusco would gather in the main square, remove their shoes and face the rising sun.
Now, hundreds of years after the tradition started, the indigenous communities living throughout the Andes love to celebrate the occasion by wearing colourful costumes and dancing to music. Millions of people flock to the town and celebrations last for nine days, including a procession through the town and also a re-enactment of a traditional Inca Inti Raymi celebration.
Where to stay: Inca Wazi Plaza is centrally located at Plaza de Armas.
Kayak’s tip: It’s not uncommon for visitors to Cusco to suffer with altitude sickness so you might need a few days to acclimatise before the celebrations. Drink plenty of water and Muña Tea.
July
AgitÁgueda, Águeda, Portugal
The riverside city of Águeda hosts a three-week festival of street art and performance each July, making a special effort to foster new talent. See the city come alive through art installations, and escape the summer sun by walking the cobbled streets beneath a canopy of colourful umbrellas which are an Instagram favourite.
Where to stay: Try the Hotel Estalagem Da Pateira.
Kayak’s tip: You can go to live concerts for free on Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday during the festival so plan accordingly.
Gion Matsuri, Kyoto, Japan
Visit Kyoto during the Gion Matsuri festival in July, and the streets will be bustling with “yamaboko” floats adorned with lanterns and tapestries celebrating the local Shinto faith. The floats are not the only spectacle – the event is often nicknamed the “kimono festival”, and you can expect to see locals dressed in their finest garments as they join the crowds to celebrate. Grab a beer from a geisha at the bustling street markets or sample incredible Japanese eats.
Where to stay: The Kyoto Granbell is a great base to explore the historic city.
Kayak’s tip: If you’re a foodie, you’re going to love the food stalls. Just come armed with a full wallet as it’s not cheap.
August events around the world
La Tomatina, Buñol, Spain
Yes, the Spaniards seem to have a penchant for weird and wacky festivals. No wine this time, instead get turned into human ketchup at this messy tomato celebration. Taking place in Buñol, just outside the city of Valencia, each year, this must be one of the messiest celebrations around the world.
After a local quarrel escalated into an impromptu food fight in 1945 with locals raiding a market stall to fend off an angry performer, the tradition stuck and around 30,000 residents have returned each year to pelt each other with produce. Fortunately they have settled on soft and squishy tomatoes as their ammunition…
Where to stay: We recommend staying in Valencia and making the 40 minute journey to Buñol.
Kayak’s tip: Get there early for thousands of people will be trying to make their way into the city, and you’ll want to avoid the traffic and queues.
The Highland Games, Dunoon, Scotland
The Highland Games are a staple of the Scottish summer calendar, and a brilliant place to soak up the Celtic culture. Expect all the classic emblems like kilts, bagpipes and the caber toss, and be ready to learn more about the rich culture and traditions. Hosted in August, The Cowal Gathering held in Dunoon, Argyll, is the largest, most spectacular Highland games in the world. Whether you want to try to answer the age old question of what is worn underneath a Scot’s kilt is up to you…
Where to stay: The Park Hotel in Dunoon is just half a mile away from the Cowal Gathering.
Kayak’s tip: Take the bus to the Highland games as there is very limited parking.
Celebrations around the world in September
Hermanus Whale Watching Festival, South Africa
The deep blue sea never fails to amaze, but you’ll be privy to a pretty spectacular event if you ever happen to be in the South African coastal town of Hermanus at the end of September. The town comes together to celebrate the migration of Southern Right Whales during its annual Whale Watching Festival – the only eco-marine festival in the world.
It is the peak time for whale activity in the area so be sure to be in town between September 29 and October 1.
You can attend fascinating talks, events and exhibits to learn more about how we can protect whales and other marine wildlife. There are treasure hunts, a parade, live music, activities for children and even a 10km fun run if you’re feeling energetic.
Where to stay: As the name suggests you’ll get epic views at the One Marine Drive Hotel.
Kayak’s tip: Bring your binoculars!
Regata Storica, Venice, Italy
Lazy gondola rides are part and parcel of visiting Venice. But if you’re up for a more strenuous adventure on the city’s famous waters you can enter the Regata Storica.
On the first Sunday of the month, participants take part in the annual races around the island. There are events for children and different categories for adults. The event has been taking place since the 1800s and sees thousands of Venetians coming together to watch the great event.
Even if you’re not a rowing fan, it’s a great spectacle that you’ll remember forever.
Toasting the occasion there is a parade down the Grand Canal and also parties across the city.
Where to stay: Hotel Testa is ideally located to be a part of the celebrations.
Kayak’s tip: Head to the Punta della Dogana for the best views of the racing.
October festivals around the world
Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
This well-loved festival is descended upon by people from around the world in search of parades, food, dancing, and most importantly, beer. Oktoberfest takes place each September in the Bavarian capital (confusing, we know…), characterised by blue-and-white checked table cloths, with servers carrying impossible numbers of “steins” of beer to thirsty party-goers. This is definitely one of the most popular celebrations on the list, but steeped in Bavarian brewing tradition, you’re sure to find fringe-events beyond the big beer halls.
Where to stay: Arthouse Munich is a convenient base to explore the city.
Kayak’s tip: We recommend Munich’s Hofbräuhaus Brewery for a really lively atmosphere!
Dia De Los Muertos, Mexico
The Day of the Dead is a celebration in Mexico when deceased spirits are believed to be able to return to visit their relatives. Traditionally celebrated on November 1-2, spirits drift back into the human world while the living take to the streets for a beautiful celebration in honour of those who have passed on to the afterlife. Characterised by the stylised skull and skeleton designs that pervade Mexican art, expect to see streets adorned with flowers, paper decorations and colourful carpets in remembrance. No Mexican celebration would be complete without food and drink, so make sure you get to try some pan de muertos (bread of the dead), agua de Jamaica (hibiscus flower water) and the punchy alcoholic pulque.
Where to stay: The event is widely observed in Mexico but we suggest staying nearby the small island of Janitzio in Lake Pátzcuaro, located in the Mexican state of Michoacán. Try Cabañas Yunuén By Rotamundos,
Kayak’s tip: It’s important to be respectful of local customs and ask to take photos in the graveyards.
November cultural events around the world
Diwali, India
Diwali, the festival of light, has been catching the eye of travellers since the 11th century and is a spectacle like no other. A world-wide celebration held in Autumn, Diwali is a five-day commemoration of harvest shared by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists. If you want to experience it closer to home, the largest Diwali outside of India is held each year in Leicester, featuring the same spectacles like the lighting of the lamps, and “rangoli” decorations created using coloured sand.
Where to stay: If you want the true experience there is a constant stream of firecrackers and fireworks in Varanasi – a hugely sacred pilgrimage site – on the main day of the festival.
Kayak’s tip: Bring your ear plugs in case you’ve had enough noise at any stage.
Yi Peng Festival, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a beautiful historic city in northern Thailand that plays host to the annual Yi Peng lantern festival. The November sky is filled with thousands of paper lanterns let-go by festival-goers, signifying the release of the ills and misfortunes of the previous year, ushering in hope and luck for the year to come. Join the crowds in the streets, or sit at a rooftop bar to watch the spectacle.
Where to stay: There are hotels to suit all budgets and tastes, check out our best picks here – we recommend Duangtawan Hotel Chiang Mai.
Kayak’s tip: Be sure to dress appropriately if you are visiting a Buddhist temple
National Kenu & Kundu Festival, Alotau, Papua New Guinea
Fancy doing something well off the beaten track? Well, if you ever find yourself in the South Pacific in November, head to the remote town of Alotau on the eastern tip of Papua New Guinea. The jaunt will give you a glimpse into a different world, where tribes from the 600+ neighbouring islands convene to trade, dance, sing and most importantly – race canoes – during the three-day event. It will give you a fascinating insight into the Milne Bay culture. The country has a rich ethos of travelling by water, and the kenu (boats) and kundu (drums) are the focus of this annual festival. The real showpiece is a race of kenu boats, each one uniquely designed and crafted by a local community. The rivalry is fierce!
Where to stay: Try Green Hills Pebac Pngcr in the capital Port Moresby.
Kayak’s tip: Enjoy a yam feast – the country is famous for them. They’re superfoods don’t you know!
December global festivals
Hornbill Festival, India
India features prominently on our list but this is one of the lesser-known festivals. The north-eastern state of Nagaland is home to many differing tribes, each with their own cultural celebration.
However the Hornbill unites the neighbouring tribes to protect the unique Naga heritage. Named after the large, colourful bird which is symbol of the Naga warrior folklore, the Hornbill attracts visitors to soak up the atmosphere.
For ten days between December 1-10 the tribes take part in various activities such as fashion shows, sporting events, colourful tribal ceremonies and performances in Naga Heritage Village. There are also sculpture displays, craft showcases, food stalls and even a Miss Nagaland beauty pageant.
Where to stay: Niathu is one of the few places near the festival with air conditioning.
Kayak’s tip: Tourists from outside Indian need register at the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) within 24 hours of their arrival at the festival.
Junkanoo, Bahamas
Only good vibes here. The national festival of the Bahamas, Junkanoo takes place on Boxing Day. Residents spend months planning the elaborate pageant which starts in the early hours in the morning. You’ll hear lots of whistling and musicians play brass instruments, cowbells and drums. There are cash prizes on offer for the best outfits so as you can expect, the locals like to go all out.
The biggest event is held in the capital of Nassau, although celebrations are held all across the 16 islands.
Where to stay: Bay Street is the place to be for parade so the Holiday Inn Express is perfectly located.
Kayak’s tip: Dress in your biggest, boldest colours!
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