15 Of The Best Festivals In The World

There’s something about festivals that bring people together from all over the world. Whether it’s the celebration of culture, music, food, or art, festivals have a way of creating an atmosphere of joy and excitement that’s hard to replicate anywhere else. From the flamboyance of Rio Carnival to the spiritual aura of Kumbh Mela, there’s a festival for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a look at 15 of the best festivals in the world that you should definitely add to your bucket list.

The Carnival of Venice 🎭

The Carnival of Venice dates back to the 12th century and is one of the most famous cultural events in the world. For two weeks, the canals and streets of Venice are filled with people dressed in elaborate costumes and masks, creating a surreal atmosphere that’s straight out of a fairytale. The festival is a celebration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, with events like masquerade balls, parades, and live music performances.

FAQ: What is the history of the Carnival of Venice?

The Carnival of Venice began in the 12th century as a celebration of the city’s victory over the Patriarch of Aquileia. It evolved over the years to become a way for people to let loose and indulge in pleasures before the start of Lent. The festival was banned during the rule of Mussolini and was revived in the 1970s as a way to promote tourism in Venice.

Oktoberfest 🍺

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival, held annually in Munich, Germany. The festival attracts millions of visitors from all over the world who come to drink beer, eat traditional Bavarian food, and enjoy live music. The festival also features amusement rides and carnival games, making it a fun-filled event for the whole family.

FAQ: How much beer is consumed during Oktoberfest?

During Oktoberfest, over 7 million liters of beer are consumed, which translates to around 14 million pints. The festival also generates over 1 billion euros in revenue for the city of Munich.

Diwali 🪔

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important festivals in India. The festival is celebrated over five days and marks the victory of good over evil. People light lamps, decorate their homes with rangolis, and burst firecrackers to celebrate the occasion. The festival is also a time for families to come together and enjoy traditional sweets and delicacies.

FAQ: How is Diwali celebrated?

Diwali is celebrated by lighting lamps and candles, decorating homes with colorful rangolis, and bursting firecrackers. It’s also a time for families to come together and enjoy traditional foods like sweets, snacks, and curries.

La Tomatina 🍅

La Tomatina is a festival held in Buñol, Spain, where participants throw tomatoes at each other. The festival began in the 1940s and has since become a popular event, attracting thousands of tourists every year. The festival is held on the last Wednesday of August and is a fun way for people to let loose and have some messy fun.

FAQ: How did La Tomatina begin?

The origins of La Tomatina are unclear, but it’s believed to have started as a way for young people to protest against the local government. The festival was banned for a while but was eventually allowed to continue as a way to promote tourism in the region.

Holi 🎨

Holi is a Hindu festival that’s celebrated in India and other parts of South Asia. The festival is a celebration of spring and is also known as the Festival of Colors. People throw colored powders and water at each other, dance to music, and eat sweets and delicacies. The festival is a time for people to let go of past grievances and come together in a spirit of unity and joy.

FAQ: What is the significance of Holi?

Holi is a celebration of spring and marks the victory of good over evil. The festival is also a time for people to let go of past grievances and come together in a spirit of unity and joy.

Kumbh Mela 🙏

Kumbh Mela is a major pilgrimage festival in India that’s held every 12 years. The festival is a celebration of faith and spirituality, with millions of people coming to bathe in the holy rivers of India. The festival is also a time for people to come together and celebrate their shared beliefs and values.

FAQ: What is the significance of Kumbh Mela?

Kumbh Mela is a celebration of faith and spirituality, with millions of people coming to bathe in the holy rivers of India. The festival is also a time for people to come together and celebrate their shared beliefs and values.

Carnaval de Barranquilla 🎉

Carnaval de Barranquilla is a cultural festival held in Barranquilla, Colombia, that’s known for its colorful costumes and lively music. The festival is a celebration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, with events like parades, dances, and parties. The festival also has a strong religious significance, with elements of Catholicism and African spirituality.

FAQ: What is the history of Carnaval de Barranquilla?

Carnaval de Barranquilla has its roots in the traditions of the indigenous peoples of Colombia, as well as the African slaves who were brought to the region. The festival evolved over time to become a way for people to celebrate their cultural heritage and come together in a spirit of unity and joy.

Mardi Gras 🎭

Mardi Gras is a festival that’s celebrated in New Orleans, Louisiana, and is known for its colorful parades and lively parties. The festival is a celebration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, with events like masquerade balls, jazz performances, and street parties. The festival is also a time for people to indulge in traditional New Orleans food and drink, like king cake and hurricanes.

FAQ: What is the history of Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras has its roots in the Catholic tradition of Carnival, which was brought to the region by French colonists. The festival evolved over time to become a way for people to celebrate their cultural heritage and come together in a spirit of unity and joy.

La Feria de Abril 🎵

La Feria de Abril is a festival held in Seville, Spain, that’s known for its flamenco music and dancing. The festival is a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage, with events like bullfights, horse parades, and traditional Sevillanas dances. The festival is also a time for people to come together and enjoy traditional Andalusian food and drink, like sherry and tapas.

FAQ: What is the significance of La Feria de Abril?

La Feria de Abril is a celebration of Seville’s rich cultural heritage and is a time for people to come together and enjoy traditional food, drink, and music. The festival also has a strong religious significance, with elements of Catholicism and Andalusian folklore.

Chinese New Year 🧨

Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is a major holiday in China and other parts of Asia. The festival is a celebration of the lunar new year and is marked by dragon and lion dances, fireworks, and traditional food. The festival is a time for families to come together and celebrate their shared heritage and traditions.

FAQ: What is the significance of Chinese New Year?

Chinese New Year is a celebration of the lunar new year and is a time for families to come together and celebrate their shared heritage and traditions. The festival also has a strong cultural and religious significance, with elements of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.

Songkran 🌊

Songkran is a festival that’s celebrated in Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia. The festival is a celebration of the Thai new year and is marked by water fights, street parties, and traditional food. The festival is a time for people to let loose and have fun, and is also a time for families to come together and celebrate their shared heritage.

FAQ: What is the significance of Songkran?

Songkran is a celebration of the Thai new year and is a time for people to let loose and have fun. The festival also has a strong religious significance, with elements of Buddhism and Hinduism.

Coachella 🎤

Coachella is a music festival held annually in Indio, California, that’s known for its lineup of popular musicians and bands. The festival is a celebration of contemporary music and culture, with events like live music performances, art installations, and food vendors. The festival is a time for people to come together and enjoy their shared love of music.