Best Annual Festivals In The US

Are you a fan of festivals and looking for an unforgettable experience in the United States? Look no further as we have compiled the best annual festivals in the US with something for everyone. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, these events are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

🎉 Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana

One of the most iconic festivals in the US, Mardi Gras is a celebration of food, music, and culture. The festival takes place in New Orleans, Louisiana, and lasts for two weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday. Revelers dress up in colorful costumes and throw beads from floats to the cheering crowds.

What is the history of Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras dates back to medieval Europe and was brought to America by French explorers in the 17th century. The festival has since become an integral part of New Orleans culture and attracts over a million visitors every year.

What can I expect at Mardi Gras?

Expect to see extravagant parades, live music, and indulge in traditional New Orleans food such as gumbo and po’boys. Join in the fun and dance the night away at the numerous street parties and balls.

🎶 Coachella in Indio, California

One of the most popular music festivals in the world, Coachella attracts music lovers from all over. The festival takes place in Indio, California, over two weekends in April and features a lineup of the biggest names in the music industry.

What is the history of Coachella?

Coachella was founded in 1999 and has grown to become one of the most profitable music festivals in the world. The festival is known for its diverse lineup and attracts over 250,000 visitors every year.

What can I expect at Coachella?

Expect to see your favorite musicians perform live on multiple stages, as well as art installations, food vendors, and fashion boutiques. Camp out in the desert with other music enthusiasts and experience the festival from sunrise to sunset.

🍁 Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

Oktoberfest is a world-renowned festival celebrating beer, food, and German culture. The festival takes place in Munich, Germany, and lasts for 16 days, starting in late September and ending in early October.

What is the history of Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest dates back to 1810 when a horse race was organized to celebrate the wedding of King Ludwig I and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The festival has since evolved into a celebration of beer and attracts over six million visitors every year.

What can I expect at Oktoberfest?

Expect to see traditional German clothing, beer halls, beer gardens, and amusement rides. Indulge in traditional Bavarian food such as pretzels, sausages, and schnitzel. Don’t forget to try the festival’s signature beer, brewed specifically for Oktoberfest.

🎭 Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is a celebration of music, dance, and culture. The festival takes place in February and lasts for four days, attracting visitors from all over the world.

What is the history of Carnival?

Carnival has roots in ancient Roman festivals and was brought to Brazil by Portuguese colonizers in the 18th century. The festival has since become an integral part of Brazilian culture and attracts over two million visitors every year.

What can I expect at Carnival?

Expect to see colorful costumes, elaborate floats, samba parades, and street parties. Join in the fun and dance to the rhythm of samba music with the locals. Indulge in traditional Brazilian food such as feijoada and caipirinhas.

🍎 New York City Marathon in New York, New York

The New York City Marathon is one of the largest and most prestigious marathons in the world. The race takes place in November and attracts over 50,000 runners from all over the world.

What is the history of the New York City Marathon?

The New York City Marathon was first run in 1970 and has since become a symbol of New York City’s resilience and determination. The race takes runners through all five boroughs of the city and is known for its challenging course.

What can I expect at the New York City Marathon?

Expect to see thousands of runners from all over the world compete in the race. Cheer on the runners from the sidelines and experience the energy of the city as it comes together to support the athletes. Join in the festivities and attend the post-race party in Central Park.

🌽 Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, Iowa

The Iowa State Fair is a celebration of agriculture, food, and entertainment. The fair takes place in August and attracts over one million visitors every year.

What is the history of the Iowa State Fair?

The Iowa State Fair dates back to 1854 and has since become one of the largest state fairs in the country. The fair is known for its butter sculptures, livestock shows, and famous food on a stick.

What can I expect at the Iowa State Fair?

Expect to see traditional fair attractions such as carnival rides, games, and live music. Sample unique foods such as deep-fried Oreos, bacon-wrapped corn on the cob, and a variety of foods on a stick. Don’t miss the chance to see the famous butter cow sculpture.

🎨 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a celebration of hot air balloons, music, and culture. The festival takes place in October and attracts over 500 hot air balloons from all over the world.

What is the history of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta was founded in 1972 and has since become the largest balloon festival in the world. The festival is known for its unique balloon shapes and special events such as the mass ascension and balloon glow.

What can I expect at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?

Expect to see hundreds of hot air balloons fill the sky at dawn and dusk. Join in the fun and go on a balloon ride or attend the special events such as the balloon glow and fireworks display. Indulge in traditional New Mexican food such as green chili and enchiladas.

🍓 Strawberry Festival in Plant City, Florida

The Strawberry Festival is a celebration of strawberries, food, and entertainment. The festival takes place in March and attracts over 500,000 visitors every year.

What is the history of the Strawberry Festival?

The Strawberry Festival dates back to 1930 and has since become one of the largest festivals in Florida. The festival is known for its strawberry shortcake, livestock shows, and live music.

What can I expect at the Strawberry Festival?

Expect to see carnival rides, games, and live music from country to rock. Sample delicious strawberry treats such as strawberry shortcake, strawberry pie, and strawberry milkshakes. Don’t forget to take home some fresh strawberries from the festival.

🌹 Rose Parade in Pasadena, California

The Rose Parade is a celebration of flowers, music, and culture. The parade takes place on New Year’s Day and attracts over one million spectators every year.

What is the history of the Rose Parade?

The Rose Parade dates back to 1890 and has since become a symbol of Southern California’s creativity and diversity. The parade is known for its extravagant floats made entirely of flowers, marching bands, and equestrian units.

What can I expect at the Rose Parade?

Expect to see elaborate floats made entirely of flowers, marching bands, and equestrian units. Attend the post-parade festivities and see the floats up close. Experience the energy of the city as it comes together to celebrate the new year.

🎭 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah

The Sundance Film Festival is a celebration of independent cinema, music, and culture. The festival takes place in January and attracts filmmakers and film enthusiasts from all over the world.

What is the history of the Sundance Film Festival?

The Sundance Film Festival was founded in 1978 by Robert Redford and has since become one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. The festival is known for its independent films and cutting-edge technology.

What can I expect at the Sundance Film Festival?

Expect to see independent films, attend workshops, and network with filmmakers and industry professionals. Join in the fun and attend the music events and parties. Experience the beauty of Park City and the surrounding mountains.

🍁 Fall Foliage Festival in Stowe, Vermont

The Fall Foliage Festival