It’s a new year, and the Aussie music festival is back in a big way, with more than a dozen events already held in the first week of January.
There’s no doubt things have changed in the past three years, with COVID causing headaches for festival promoters having to cancel events at the last minute due to local outbreaks or changed restrictions
As we head into 2023 with no restrictions, open borders and a new national cultural policy coming into effect at the end of January, things are looking up for the live music scene
Tone Deaf has gathered as much info as we can to bring you a month-by-month guide to the music festivals happening in Australia this year – we will keep adding to the list as more festivals and lineups get announced
January 2023
Sydney Festival
When. Thursday, 5th – Sunday, 29th January
Where. Sydney, NSW
Who. Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith, Bonobo, Katie Noonan performs Joni Mitchell’s Blue, Emma Donovan and Paul Grabowsky, Prinnie Stevens, Ursula Yovich + more
Website
Tamworth Country Music Festival
When. Friday, 13th – Sunday, 22nd January
Where. Tamworth, NSW
Who. Adam Harvey, Andrew Swift, Beccy Cole, Casey Barnes, Fanny Lumsden, Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham, John Williamson, Kasey Chambers, Kevin Bloody Wilson, Lachlan Bryan, Lee Kernaghan, Melanie Dyer, Sara Storer, Shane Nicholson, The Whitlams, The Wolfe Brothers, Troy Cassar-Daley + more
Website
Cairns Summer Sounds
When. Friday, 13th January – Saturday, 4th March
Where. Cairns, QLD
Who. Thundamentals, The Cat Empire, Dami Im, Jess Mauboy, Eric Bibb, Stella Donnelly
Website
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The best festival of the world is of course, subjective, but here are 50+ awesome world festivals to add to your festival bucket list
The best world festivals can be the top way of experiencing somewhere new. Go to a world festival and you get to sample the local cultural traditions in one place, you can mingle with the locals, and see their twist on festival fun
I’ve been to over 60 festivals around the world, so let me introduce you to some of my favourites, and the famous festivals in the world I want to go to in the future
Festivals don’t all have to be welly-wearing, rain dodging affairs – and you can actually learn a lot from going to different festivals around the world. When it comes to the best festival in the world, you need to visit a few of these before you decide. If you already know which is your favourite festival in the world, let me know in the comments box at the end
To help you compile your own list of world festivals you need to attend, here are just some of the top festivals in the world for your festival bucket list
Festivals and celebrations around the world calendar
If you want to know more about festivals in January, I have a whole blog post dedicated to the month
January world festivals calendar
1. Thaipusam Festival
Malaysia
Fancy popping over to Malaysia to celebrate that little thing called good versus evil?
Every year Hindus, more specifically the Tamil community, gather at their local temples to express their thanks and pay penance for anything bad they may have done
Although you can see the celebrations anywhere in the country, the Batu Caves in Selangor is one of the most popular places. People journey here on a pilgrimage, cleanse themselves and fast as part of their homage to Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war
– When is Thaipusam festival? Thaipusam usually falls in January or February
– Where is Thaipusam festival? Malaysia
2. Timkat Festival
Ethiopia
If Ethiopia wasn’t on your travel list before, slide it right in there. Next up on the international festivals list is Timkat – taking place on the 19th of January every year. It’s also Ethiopia’s biggest festival
Otherwise known as the Feast of Epiphany, Timkat celebrates the baptism of Jesus with a few special ceremonies followed by neighbourhood parties. Locals reenact the baptism, people make the pilgrimage from other countries and the streets are decorated in the colours of the Ethiopian flag
While there’s loads of places in Ethiopia to see some of the traditions, the capital Addis Ababa is by far the best
Timkat is one of many deeply religious festivals around the world, and one of the best festivals in Ethiopia
– When is Timkat festival? 19th January
– Where is Timkat festival? All over Ethiopia
3. Hogmanay Festival
Scotland
A wee dram of whisky, some ceilidh numbers and a few degrees from freezing makes for the best way to see in the new year. Hogmanay is one of the best New Year festivals in the world
Held in Edinburgh, the midnight main event takes place in Princes Street Gardens, right in front of the famous Edinburgh Castle. It could definitely be the best festival of the world, on NYE anyways
Although today much of New Year’s Eve in Scotland is about the swally and the street parties, the night actually has a pretty significant role in Scotland’s history. Back when it wasn’t getting on with church, Scots didn’t get to celebrate Christmas and so they stockpiled all their party spirit ready to be unleashed on NYE in full force
Obviously times have moved on but the strength of the celebrations remains strong and Scots still see in the bells with a good old knees up whether it be in a Highland bar, Glasgow house party or at the famous Edinburgh street party
The centre of the city is closed off to cars, so pedestrians can wander free and bring their own alcohol in plastic containers to party on the streets
Real life vikings come over from the Shetland Islands to lead the city’s procession with fire torches, before the hourly firework displays light up the skies. This is definitely one of those bucket list festivals you need in your life
I WENT. My Hogmanay Experience in Edinburgh
– When is Hogmanay festival? New Year’s Eve
– Where is Hogmanay festival? Edinburgh, Scotland
4. Kumbh Mela Festival
India
The Kumbh Mela is a gathering of over 1 million people around the River Ganges. It’s the biggest festival in the world
I went a few years ago, when it was reported there was over 70 million people in attendance over the month. SEVENTY MILLION
I very nearly got lost at the biggest festival in the world – it wasn’t fun. You can read more about my Kumbh Mela experience here. This is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar
I feel like this festival doesn’t make it onto best world festivals lists for some reason, so I’m happy to include it here
– When is Kumbh Mela festival? Jan / Feb
– Where is Kumbh Mela festival? India
I’ve written a book about festivals around the world – check it out here
February world festivals calendar
For more great festivals in February read this post
5. Venice Carnival
Venice
If you love mystery, magic and masquerade, pop this one on your own list of world festivals to attend. Each February, Venetians put two weeks aside to party. Back in the 12th century when this first became of thing, lent was a party-free zone. It also meant you couldn’t eat any rich food so to make up for what they’d be missing, Venetians would cram all their wild ways into the two weeks before lent and the tradition has since carried on
Back then, wearing a mask was very much the norm and so the locals’ love of them is revived every year with masked balls, mask contests and masquerade pub crawls. Loads of the events are invite-only and are super fancy, but there are a fair few concerts and street parties you can join for free
The Venice Carnival is definitely on my festival bucket list for next year
– When is Venice Carnival? Around 8th to 25th February
– Where is Venice Carnival? Err, Venice.
6. Sky Lantern Festival
China
For all the amazing festivals China has, the Sky Lantern one is the mothership. Celebrating Chinese New Year, usually around February or March, no doubt you’ll have seen plenty of pictures of the Sky Lantern Festival
Thousands of lanterns are let go at night creating the most magical experience. The festival is over 2000 years old and is traditionally a time to be spent with family before socialising with other loved ones
You can catch the festivities, including a parade of a traditional Chinese dragon, all over the country, but some of the best places include Nanjing, Shanghai and Guangzhou
One of the most amazing festivals around the world to experience as a bystander
– When is China’s Sky Lantern Festival? Around February 8th
– Where is China’s Sky Lantern Festival? All over China
READ MORE. The Best Present Ideas for Festivals
7. Rio de Janeiro Carnival
Brazil
Known as one of the biggest and best festivals in the world, Rio de Janeiro Carnival is an iconic Brazilian parade that has the celebs flocking and backpackers saving just to be a little part of this colourful extravaganza
Held around February to March depending on the start of lent, the Rio Carnival floats and costumes take months to put together and are some of the most amazing you’ll ever see. You can line the city streets to watch the parade go by or else buy spectator tickets for The Sambodromo where the themed floats go by to the sounds of samba, steel drums and screams of onlookers
Tickets cost upwards of $60 and while it’s not a bank breaker, the cost to get to Brazil might mean a little saving. Take a look at my top tips for saving money at festivals to help you get by. Add this to your celebrations around the world calendar
– When is Rio Carnival? Around Fri, 21 – Wed, 26 Feb
– Where is Rio Carnival? Rio, in Brazil
READ MORE. I’ve Written a Book About Festivals
March world festivals calendar
For more festivals in March, check out my dedicated post here
8. Holi Festival
India
We’ve all heard of Holi right?
To experience the dust throwing, colour crazy fest in all its glory, you have to head to its home country of India come March time. An ancient Hindu festival, it goes way beyond good insta-photos and signifies the start of spring and the coming together of friends and family to rid of bad blood
As one of the world’s most iconic and best festivals, Holi is celebrated nationwide meaning you can pick your preferred Indian location and start joining in the bonfire displays and street parties wherever you are
It’s just one of many festivals in India, although the most important one, which I’ve been to, is the Kumbh Mela
– When is Holi Festival? Around 9th to 10th March
– Where is Holi Festival? All over India, but also celebrated around the world
9. St Paddy’s Day
Ireland
An easy one to tick off given its close proximity to us in the UK, is St Paddy’s Day in Ireland. It’s one of the most popular world festivals and although the epicentre is in Ireland, Paddy’s Day is celebrated around the world
If you want to go to one of the craziest festivals in the world, fly over to Dublin and then either stay in the city or go on from there to any Irish town where you’ll find friendly locals, a decent pub and a load of Guinness to help you celebrate the patron saint of Ireland
No matter where you end up on March 17th, you can guarantee there’ll be decent music, a lot of partying and loads of green clothing to honour the day their favourite saint died
St Patrick’s Day may be one of the most popular festivals in Ireland, but it’s also one of the biggest and most famous festivals in the world. It’s celebrated wherever you can find an Irish pub.
– When is St Patrick’s Day? 17th March every year
– Where is St Patrick’s Day? Mainly Ireland, but there are also huge celebrations in Chicago, New York, Sydney and London
10. Mardi Gras
USA
It’s all about New Orleans, especially around Easter time; when Mardi Gras takes place on the day before Ash Wednesday. Despite taking place in New Orleans, its roots actually originated from Europe and the celebrations held by Pagan people that were then adopted by Rome and brought to New Orleans by explorers
Over the centuries Mardi Gras festival has garnered more steam with over 100 different parades taking place in and around New Orleans. In fact, Louisiana is the only state that makes this day a national holiday. This is a huge world festival
Mardi Gras is a huge thing for New Orleans, and people turn up in their thousands to celebrate it. If you’re planning on visiting, I have a great cheap guide to New Orleans and a comparison of the decent priced accommodation too
– When is Mardi Gras? Around 25th February
– Where is Mardi Gras? All over New Orleans
Fancy doing a festival quiz?
50 questions, 50 answers, a great festival quiz – do it with friends, or by yourself
11. Las Fallas Festival
Valencia, Spain
Las Fallas is also known as the Fire Festival – not the Netflix / Bahamas one – Las Fallas’ routes and origins go back way before that.
Every March in Valencia huge effigies are positioned in the streets for people to come and admire. Skilled craftsmen will have spent the last year creating them, and then on the last night of the festival they all go up in smoke. Yep, they’re all lit and burnt to welcome in the new year. And then production starts again.
Las Fallas is a huge celebration in the city, and an incredible spectacle to see. Of course there are fireworks all day every day too – any excuse in Spain
Las Fallas is among one of the 60+ festivals I’ve been to
I went in 2018 – here’s my Simple Guide to Las Fallas Festival
– Where is Las Fallas Festival? Valencia, Spain
– When is Las Fallas Festival? Friday 15th to Tuesday 19th March
12. SXSW Festival
USA
SXSW is the festival where creatives go to discover and be discovered. Held every March in Austin it’s an opportunity for the next big things in music, tech and film to come together and showcase their work.
Buy a [very expensive] ticket and you’ll have access to a whole host of free parties, influential people and gigs and shows across the city. I loved my time at SXSW although the amount I spent on it does kinda blow my mind if I think about it too hard.
Good job I got to meet Richie Hawtin, Gary Vee and a whole load of other ‘influential’ people. Also, definitely drank my ticket money back in cocktails on Sixth Street at the free parties.
The festival takes place all over the city of Austin, in all kinds of venues from homes to hotels to cinemas and the great outdoors
The atmosphere changes depending on the band or artist you’re going to see, but whoever it is, you can feel the thrill of potential in the air. Everyone’s either trying to find the next big thing, or actually be it. It’s one of the best world music festivals in the world
Great for us bystanders who just want free parties, and some new music inspiration for our Spotify
I’ve put together a guide to SXSW accommodation, and a look at the best hostels in Austin, to help you plan your trip to one of the coolest festivals around the world
I went to SXSW in 2016 – What to Expect from SXSW
– When is SXSW? Around 16th to 22nd March
– Where is SXSW? Austin, Texas, USA
April world festivals calendar
13. The Penis Festival
Japan
The Kanamara Matsuri, or ‘Festival of the Steel Phallus’, is held annually in Kawasaki, just south of Tokyo. The Penis Festival, as it’s known around the world, celebrates everything ‘penis’
One the first Sunday in April, the normally sleepy Kawasaki’s Daishi neighbourhood is overrun with colourful penises of all shapes and sizes
Visit this awesome world festival and you’ll see each mikoshi carried by dozens of locals outfitted in happi coats and sweatbands. Other men just wander wearing loin cloths
This is actually a really serious festival though, so don’t rock up as a tourist laughing at it all. It’s there to celebrate the Shinto God of fertility, and there’s a lot of meaning behind every tradition and action. It’s definitely one of the most interesting festivals in April
– When is the Penis Festival? 13th to 15th April
– Where is the Penis Festival? It’s held in all the big cities in Thailand – have fun
14. Songkran Water Festival
Thailand
Thailand celebrates its new year, known as Songkran, on the 13th to 15th of April.
Locals turn towns into waterparks throwing, squirting and soaking one another with water – so expect to get a little wet. Then there’s processions of Buddha images, temple visits and spring cleans to make sure everyone is all set for the coming year
Bangkok is a great place to celebrate with the Bangkok Songkran Splendours Festival, but Chiang Mai and Phuket also put on a good show / fight
I’ve never actually made it to Songkran, but this is definitely one of the coolest festivals in the world and a total bucket list festival.
– When is Songkran? 13th to 15th April
– Where is Songkran? It’s held in all the big cities in Thailand – have fun
15. Kings Day Festival
Netherlands
On 27th April, the Dutch come out in force, and in orange, to celebrate their monarch
Dating back to the 1880s, people across the country, including the royals themselves, get their party pants on for this national holiday. But it’s Amsterdam where the real party happens
Boats flood the river packed full of people, revellers line the banks and crowds dangle out of windows watching the music, DJs and dancers below before taking it out to parties on the outskirts of the city. It’s also the only day anyone can set up shop in the street for a bit of free trading so grab a bargain and pick yourself up a little momento to celebrate one of the best festivals in the world
– Where is Kings Day? In all the big cities of the Netherlands, but the biggest party is in Amsterdam
– When is Kings Day? On the 27th April every year, but lasts a few days
16. Coachella Festival
California
Coachella is probably the most Instagrammed festival in the world. I went a few years ago, before Instagram took over, but now it’s the festival to be seen and photographed at
The Coachella wheel is iconic, the line ups are always totally extra, and the billed stars are known for bringing their mates on stage too. Held in the Nevada desert the conditions can be tough, but I had a wonderful 5 nights of camping at Coachella and it remains one of the most fun and friendliest festivals I’ve ever been to.
Even the security guards were high fiving ‘Happy Coachella’ as you passed them
Being in the sun, in the Colorado Desert, with some of the biggest artists in the world to entertain you just feels incredible. And then when said biggest artists bring their famous friends on – a la Beyonce, bringing Jay Z and Destiny’s Child in 2018 – the crowd go wild.
Camping at Coachella was one of my most favourite festival camping experiences ever – we made a lot of friends. Coachella is one of the most popular music festivals in the world.
I went in 2014. The Brits Guide to Coachella Festival
– When is Coachella Festival? It’s held over the two weekends between 10th and 19th April.
– Where is Coachella Festival? Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, in the Coachella Valley
17. New Orleans Jazz Festival, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
The New Orleans Jazz Festival has been exciting audiences for over 50 years now. It’d be hard to name a soul or jazz great that hasn’t blessed the stage. It’s another of the great music festivals around the world
The line up is always stellar, but also, the after parties. It finishes at 7pm so the crowd filters into the bars of New Orleans. Having listened to gospel, blues and jazz all day, it’s time to follow that brass marching band into the city
There’s no party like a NOLA party, and the Jazz Festival is the most significant of the lot
It was a life dream of mine to visit, and then unfortunately that year the party got rained off on day two. I just have a memory of Stevie Wonder on stage with a megaphone asking people not to go home, when it was too dangerous to stay.
It was a sad day on so many levels.
I went in 2016. 11 Survival Tips for the New Orleans Jazz Festival
– When is Coachella Festival? It’s held over the two weekends between 10th and 19th April.
– Where is Coachella Festival? Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, in the Coachella Valley
May world festivals calendar
More festivals in May
18. Cannes Film Festival
France
Cannes is the most important film festival in Europe. It’s one of the biggest cultural events in film, and it’s your chance to see some of the most important upcoming films, if you’re a VIP
Things are a little different if you just want to rock up to this world festival as a normal person, as I found. Still worth it though
I went to the Cannes Film Festival a few years ago
– When is Cannes Film Festival? In May
– Where is Coachella Festival? Cannes, France
19. Pahiyas Festival
Philippines
Quickly make Patron Saint of Farmers, San Isidro de Labrador, your new favourite saint as it’ll get you to the Philippines
Each 15th of May, people across the country honour this agricultural legend with a celebration of all the best local food they have whether its via vendors, stalls or restaurants. But they don’t just stop at eating it, they go all out decorating their house in colourful food
The creations for Pahiyas Festival are insane and definitely worth getting the camera out for. Also, the costumes and outfits are among the most colourful of any world festival ever.
– When is Pahiyas Festival? 15th May every year
– Where is Pahiyas Festival? In Lucban, in the Philippines
READ MORE. The Best Festivals in the Philippines
20. Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling Festival
England
Basically, you roll a big, round, Double Gloucester cheese down Cooper’s Hill in Gloucestershire and run after it
Apparently the cheese can reach speeds of upto 70mph so it’s quite the challenge – the person who crosses the finish line first, wins the cheese
Simple
This cheese festival is a world famous super popular event, where over 5000 people turn up. Thanks to the old Health and Safety though, they now have to roll replica cheeses
Sad times
One of the most unique world food festivals
– When is Cooper’s Hill Festival? Bank Holiday Monday
– Where is Cooper’s Hill Festival? In England
21. Cheung Chau Bun Festival
Hong Kong
From the 5th to the 9th day of the 4th lunar month, aka May, Hong Kong goes all out for its annual celebration of the end of the plague
Back in the 1600s when the disease was rife, locals put up an alter outside the Pak Tai Temple to give them a place to pray for the evil spirits to leave the island and rid them of the plague. Locals believe that praying away the plague really worked and so they celebrate every year with a week of music, dance, drums and parades
A great weekend that definitely makes it on a list of best festivals around the world
– When is Cheung Chau Bun Festival? Around 27th April to 1st May
– Where is Cheung Chau Bun Festival? In Cheung Chau in Hong Kong
22. VIVID Sydney
Australia
VIVID Sydney is basically an awesome light show projected onto some of the most iconic spots in the city. Take a boat ride in the harbour and you can see projections onto the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House too.
Explore Sydney while the festival is on and you can enjoy light installations and projections. Make sure to go and explore the ones in the zoo. This is a night time festival, but the fun flows into the day
My absolute favourite installation was the lit up dancers, set to music. You need to see it.
– When is VIVID Festival? 22nd May to 13th June
– Where is VIVID Festival? All over Sydney
June world festivals calendar
23. Isle of Wight Festival
England
The Isle of Wight Festival is a stalwart on the UK festival calendar. It’s one of the first festivals of the season and a great weekend away
I’ve been over a few times and love the atmosphere and fun experience. You can tell by the name it’s on the beautiful Isle of Wight, and as well as all the fun of the festival, you can stay for a bit longer and enjoy all the Isle of Wight activities too
Thanks to the length of time it’s been running, the Isle of Wight festival is known as one of the most famous music festivals in the UK
READ MORE. I went to the Isle of Wight Festival in 2018
– When is Isle of Wight Festival? Around 7-9th June
– Where is Isle of Wight Festival? Isle of Wight Festival, UL
24. Karneval der Kulturen
Germany
As if Berlin needed much more of an excuse to plant itself firmly on the bucket list, it’s got Karneval der Kulturen for extra brownie points
This multicultural festival is all about embracing people of every age, ethnicity, religion and gender. Over four days, 1. 5 million people come to see the dance displays and diverse musical acts across several stages. The wide array of genres are said to represent the city’s global community
The story goes that KdK originally kicked off 1996 and was designed to dispel any racism and create more of a community vibe. Equality never gets old when it comes to world festivals
Karneval der Kulturen means Carnival of Cultures in English btw. Sounds like it could be up there with the most hipster festivals around the world, especially being in Berlin
– When is Karneval der Kulturen? Around 7-9th June
– Where is Karneval der Kulturen? Berlin, Germany
25. Rock in Rio
Parque Olímpico, Cidade do Rock, Brazil
Rock in Rio started in the 80s to lift spirits in the socio-economic turmoil, and has been going strong ever since. As South America’s largest music festival, with over 700,00 attendees you know the energy is going to be insane
Imagine those singalongs
Seven days of rock, electronic and alternative music takes place in the ‘City of Rock’ looking out to the Jacarepaguá Lake. The electric atmosphere is spiked by art exhibitions, modern facilities, an amusement park and a circus too
This, and Coachella, are the the best festival of the world
– When is Rock in Rio? Around 20-21st June
– Where is Rock in Rio? Parque Olímpico, Cidade do Rock, Brazil
26. Glastonbury Festival
Glastonbury, England
Does Glastonbury need an introduction? Probably not to us Brits with all the BBC coverage that seems to escalate every year. Glasto is known as one of the best festivals in the world, and it has thousands of loyal followers willing to book in their tickets months in advance
Well, just in case – it’s the biggest festival in the UK with over 200,000 in attendance. Glastonbury becomes a village for the duration of the festival and attracts the biggest names for the main stage. Food vendors flock, there’s a whole cider and real ale vibe going on, and there’s literally, not exaggerating, an entertainment tent to suit every taste – whatever you’re into
Over 135k tickets sell out in less than an hour for Glasto, before the acts are even announced. Why? Because the atmosphere is unbeatable
There are guaranteed huge headliners of course, but the main draws are the different areas – each with a unique vibe. The festival’s hippy roots shine through in the Green Fields, the Wood has a nightly firepit, there’s a cinema, a latino section, pyrotechnics and a whole area dedicated to activism and inspirational talks
Glastonbury attracts a chilled crowd, who know how to party [for 5 days straight. ]. I’d recommend it as the best festival in the world, if anyone ever asks me
I’ve been three times, and have LOADS of Glastonbury advice on this blog. Everything you need to know about Glastonbury in fact.
I’ve been a few times. Tips for Your First Time at Glastonbury
– When is Glastonbury Festival? Around 24th to 29th June
– Where is Glastonbury Festival? in Glastonbury, Somerset
27. Summerfest
Wisconsin, USA
Glastonbury is the biggest music festival in the UK, but Summerfest is the biggest music festival in the world, by attendance. Over 800,000 people go to Summerfest in Wisconsin every year – that’s insane.
The western world’s top musicians perform across 11 stages over 11 days. One of the most incredible things about Summerfest, that other festivals can learn from, is the fact it’s only $23 per day to get in. Absolute bargain for the quality of acts they have on the stages
Summerfest has been going for almost 50 years now and was started by the government as a celebration for locals, and a way to bring more money into Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It worked.
By default with that many people attending, it’s one of the best international festivals around
– When is Summerfest Festival? Around 1st to 6th July
– Where is Summerfest Festival? in Wisconsin, USA
July world festivals calendar
28. EXIT Festival
Novi Sad, Serbia
EXIT Festival is famous for being that one in the fortress in Serbia. It really is awesome. One of the things I liked most about EXIT was the fast it was held on all different levels, so you could always see the main stage.
It’s very difficult to beat the feeling of dancing in a Petrovaradin Fortress, with 35,000 others in the Serbian sun. One of the best things about EXIT is that in the morning everyone goes to chill at the beach before the festival kicks off late afternoon
And then goes on until the last person has stopped dancing
There are over 40 stages, with some little ones hidden in among the fortress. The setting really makes you feel like the only thing that truly exists is the here and now – a bonding experience
EXIT is one of the biggest world festivals in the dance music calendar. It’s one of the most fun festivals I’ve been to
Also, within the fortress there were lots of different rooms so you could go and explore, not knowing what stage or musician you would end up at. My EXIT Festival experience was definitely one of my most favourite festivals of my life.
I went in 2010. EXIT Festival Tips. You’ll Need Them
– Where is EXIT Festival? Novi Sad, Serbia
– When is EXIT Festival? Around 4th to 7th July
29. Montreux Jazz Festival
Montreux, Switzerland
The Montreux Jazz Festival is held on the Lake Geneva shoreline in Switzerland and is known as the second biggest jazz festival in the world. It’s one of the most important festivals on the jazz calendar
Founded in 1967, all the jazz greats have played here
I’ve actually just found out today that the lyrics of Deep Purple’s Smoke on the Water are based on the town of Montreux, when the building they were meant to record in went up in smoke during Frank Zappa’s set on the last night of the festival. Fascinating.
Anyway, it’s a huge festival, over two weeks and anyone who loves a bit of jazz in their lives, should go.
– When is the Montreux Jazz Festival? 28th June to 13th July 2019
– Where is the Montreux Jazz Festival? on Lake Geneva in Switzerland
30. White Nights
St Petersburg, Russia
The White Nights Festival in St Petersburg lasts for two months with a calendar of events designed to make it onto your festival bucket list. This is one of the world’s most unique festivals as it celebrates the long light nights of the north of Russia, in St Petersburg.
During the White Nights, the sun never sets. This gives you all the more time to enjoy Russia’s most famous festival. Celebrating many forms of art you can expect ballet, opera, classical music and the arts performances around the city. Both local and international talent are on show in the impressive museums and theatres of the city.
Visitors can also enjoy the Scarlet Sails show. With a huge fireworks display, an open-air concert and a spectacular multi-level water, light and pyrotechnic show it’s one of the highlights of the festival
– When is the White Nights Festival? 23rd May to 29th July 2019
– Where is the White Nights Festival? St Petersburg, Russia
31. Dawson City Music Festival
Dawson City, Canada
Dawson City in the Yukon, Canada, doubles in size when the festival comes to town. Once the heart of the world-famous Klondike Gold Rush, it’s now a quiet town of around 1200
I visited Dawson City last year, you can see the festival in my video here
If you like the video, please subscribe to my YouTube channel here
Known as ‘Canada’s tiny, perfect festival’, you’ll find the whole community supports the Dawson City Music Festival in some way. Being up in the northern Canadian wilderness there are some friendly characters to get to know over a beer
Expect up-and-coming Yukon and First Nations artists gigging on the grass by the river, and at venues in town. The remote location and intimate shows combine to create a unique spirit
– When is the Dawson City Music Festival? Around 17th to 19th July
– Where is the Dawson City Music Festival? Dawson City, Yukon, Canada
32. Down the Rabbit Hole
Ewijk, Netherlands
The multi award-winning festival, Down the Rabbit Hole, only started in 2014 but it’s already gaining a magical reputation
It’s located in the Green Hills Park, in the rolling land between the Maas and Waal Rivers. There’s an enchanting forest, a beautiful beach and a bohemian festival atmosphere you only get from small festivals pre-peak
Their tagline says it all. ‘where you are who you are when no one can see you’. Big names and emerging talent from rock, pop, hip hop, electronic and jazz bless the line up, with campfires, dress up and hidden discos all in
– When is the Down the Rabbit Hole Festival? Around 3rd to 5th July
– Where is the Down the Rabbit Hole Festival? Ewijk, Netherlands
August world festivals calendar
33. Reggae Sumfest
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Think reggae music, you think Caribbean, and even more niche. Jamaica
Reggae Sumfest is one of the biggest celebrations of reggae and dancehall in the world. Chart toppers and legacy acts come to Montego Bay to join the crowd in the night’s unparalleled surroundings
The party starts at 9pm and finishes no less than 12 hours later, leaving you time to rest on the beach all day
You absolutely cannot help but dance to move with the crowd. It’s been coined the ‘greatest reggae show on earth’
One love
– When is Reggae Sumfest Festival? Around 1st August
– Where is Reggae Sumfest Festival? Montego Bay, Jamaica
34. Ghosts Festival
China
Ghosts Festival is a Buddhist and Taoist tradition that has locals across China and other Asian countries revealing their most superstitious sides
In an attempt to keep their ancestors happy and stop any ghosts from getting up to mischief, locals leave food on the roadsides, release lanterns into the lakes, burn incense and listen to Chinese opera. The most popular thing to do though is to put on a slap up meal leaving a few empty chairs for the dead to dine too
Depending on the lunar calendar, it usually takes place in August or September
– When is the Ghosts Festival? 15th August 2019
– Where is the Ghosts Festival? All over China
35. La Tomatina
Bunol, Spain
Another one with a great international reputation, La Tomatina is considered by many as one of the best festivals in the world. I think it’s just an opportunity to revert back to being a kid and get away with throwing crazy amounts of food at your friends so what’s not to love… unless you don’t like tomatoes?
Taking place on the last Wednesday of each August in the small Valencian town of Bunol, this one has been running since 1945 when one guy kicked off, threw some veg and soon had everyone pummelling tomatoes at one another
Tickets cost €35 [and a new set of clothes] and then you’ve got the cost of getting there but it’s well worth seeing this traditional fest in action
After all the tomatoes have been thrown, La Tomatina becomes one of the best party festivals around the world and a total bucket list festival
I went in 2016. Your Guide to Tomatina
– When is Tomatina Festival? Wednesday 28th August 2019
– Where is Tomatina Festival? Bunol, Spain
36. Burning Man
Nevada, USA
Is it a festival list if the daddy of all fests doesn’t make the ranking?
Burning Man takes place at the end of August each year in the desert sands of Nevada where, rather than transforming an existing city into a cultural playground, they create a brand new one. A select few of the lucky who’ve bee say it’s one of the best festivals in the world
For one week, Black Rock City becomes home to the creation of a new community free from consumerism and brimming with love, art and self-expression that makes it one of the coolest festivals around
With tickets costing upwards of $1,573, it’s a little on the pricey side though, which is why I wrote this post…
Festivals Like Burning Man, But Cheaper
Add this to your celebrations around the world calendar
– When is Burning Man Festival? Sunday 25th August to Monday 2nd August
– Where is Burning Man Festival? Black Rock Desert of Nevada
37. Notting Hill Carnival
Notting Hill, England
If your funds aren’t yet up to splashing out on a Brazilian adventure, console your carnival soul with London’s own Caribbean themed fest. This is one of the most popular UK festivals for culture
Running since 1996, residents and tourists flock to this fancy London neighbourhood for two days of August bank holiday mayhem. Think twerking [so much twerking] an epic costume parade, reggae beats and big crowds.
Notting Hill Carnival is all about embracing creativity, community spirit and cultural diversity
I went a few times when I lived just around the corner in St John’s Wood – another great party festival
– When is Notting Hill Carnival? August Bank Holiday Weekend
– Where is Notting Hill Carnival? Notting Hill, London
38. Victorious Festival
Portsmouth, UK
When the sun’s out in England, you’re by a beach and it’s Bank Holiday weekend – you can guarantee the festival crowd will be on top form
Victorious Festival takes place on Southsea Common, on the south coast of Portsmouth, with a family-friendly crowd in mind. The fact that Henry VIII’s Southsea Castle, the D-Day Museum and a skate park are all in the grounds, adds to the unique atmosphere
Victorious is a medium-sized festival, full of music, markets, tasty food, craft ales and local gins, circus and seaside fun. I’ve been to Victorious Festival three times now, and plan to go again this year too.
Here are some of the Best Things to Do at Victorious Festival and my Victorious Festival Review too. If you have time to hang out for the weekend, there are some great things to do in Southsea too
I’ve been to Victorious a few times. 7 Big Reasons to Go to Victorious
– When is Victorious Festival? August Bank Holiday Weekend
– Where is Victorious Festival? Southsea Common, Portsmouth, England
39. Fuji Rock Festival
Yuzawa-cho, Niigata Pref, Japan
At the Fuji Rock Festival you can travel the mountains by cable car – how many other festivals can boast that kinda transport?
Held in a ski resort 90 minutes from Tokyo, attendees have the coolness of the mountains to escape from Japan’s July heat. It’s the most popular festival in Japan, with over 200 national and international bands playing
There are hot springs, nature walks, woodlands, clear rivers and emerald lakes. The crowd is fun but known for being ‘well behaved’. The organisers want the ‘cleanest festival in the world’
It’s one of the biggest festivals in the world – I’d LOVE to go. It’s definitely one of the coolest festivals around the world too
– When is Fuji Rock Festival? 21st-23rd August
– Where is Fuji Rock Festival? Yuzawa-cho, Niigata Pref, Japan
September world festivals calendar
Click for more of the best festivals in September
40. Oktoberfest
Munich, Germany
As far as different festivals around the world go, Oktoberfest is probably the one most known for its copious amounts of alcohol
It all kicked off in 1810 in Bavaria as a means of celebrating a royal wedding and everyone had such a good time they decided to kick up their heels on a yearly basis. They also added on a few extra days to make it a casual 16 to 18 day folk festival
Everyone dresses up in traditional attire, takes part in yes, more parades, enjoys fairground rides and eats their body weight in sausages and pretzels before washing it all down with what’s thought to be 7 million litres of beer
It’s an absolutely brilliant weekend at an incredible world festival. trust me
This is one of those bucket list festivals you just have to do at some point in your life
I went in 2016. Oktoberfest Tips You NEED for Stamina
READ MORE. How Much Does Oktoberfest Cost?
– When is Oktoberfest? Around 21st September to 6th October
– Where is Oktoberfest? Munich, Germany, is the main one but we tend to celebrate it everywhere
41. Mooncake Festival
China
Calling all lunar lovers… this one’s for you
The Mooncake Festival is an evening dedicated to our wonderful moon and is one of the biggest events in the Chinese calendar. Once you’ve worked out when the 15th day of the 8th month is and you confirm that the moon is at its largest [September some time] join a local Chinese community to stare at the moon. But this experience wouldn’t be complete without eating copious amounts of cake
Don’t be packing your Victoria Sponge though. Local mooncakes, aka lotus seed paste and duck egg yolk, is the only cake that’ll do
One of the more interesting food festivals of the world
– When is Mooncake Festival? Friday 13th September 2019
– Where is Mooncake Festival? All over China
42. Lake of Stars Festival
Lake Malawi, Malawi
It’d been a dream of mine to go to Lake of Stars Festival in Malawi, for a long time. And last year, I made it there. Lake of Stars really is another world, right on the edge of Lake Malawi.
They get the biggest names in African music to come along and perform in the intimate setting. Over 60 acts perform on 4 stages on the beach on the edge of Lake Malawi. It’s all kinds of magical
I lost my voice at Lake of Stars Festival because everyone just wants to talk, and sing, and dance. This is a small festival – one for the free spirits who know a good beat
The acts will stay to enjoy the festival and mingle with the audience. A great opportunity to have a chat with your favourite
As well as one of the coolest festivals in the world, it’s also one of the friendliest. Seriously, you can’t sit down without making friends. Every year is a different setting, making each experience totally individual. Means you have to go more than once.
Lake of Stars Festival is one of the most popular African festivals, and I’ve been
I went in 2018. First Timer’s Guide to the Lake of Stars Festival
– When is Lake of Stars Festival? 27th to 29th September 2019
– Where is Lake of Stars Festival? Kachere Kastle, Nkhata Bay
October world festivals calendar
If you want to see all the best festivals in October, click this link
43. Feria del Mole
Mexico
This October cultural fest comes with a side of feminism. Taking place in Mexico, Feria del Mole is all about good grub made by great women and you can take part by sampling the food
Although it’s since taken off in other places, the Mexican neighbourhood of San Pedro Atocpan and the Universidad Popular’s Women’s Empowerment Program, is where it originated and the idea is to empower women by giving kudos to their great mole-making skills
And just in case you didn’t know – Mole is a stew or sauce that comes in loads of different varieties and you can try them in all at the annual fair.
One of the many great cultural festivals around the world
– When is the Feria del Mole? All of October
– Where is the Feria del Mole? San Pedro Atocpan, Milpa Alta, Mexico City
44. Day of the Dead
Mexico
All those hours practicing the perfect sugar skull make-up are about to pay off
An oldie but goldie, Day of the Dead Festival is a two-day Mexican holiday that dates back thousands of years to the Aztec, Toltec and Nahua times. Mexicans believe that their ancestors rise from the dead and join the living for two days in December. This makes it sound a little morbid, it’s anything but
The idea is to dress up, host parties, dance, sing, make offerings to the dead and generally celebrate life. I went a few years ago and had an absolutely incredible time. The atmosphere is electric, and it really makes you feel differently about death as a celebration of life, rather than the end of it.
One of the best festival of the world if you like dressing up and celebrating the dead
I went to Day of the Dead Festival in 2014. What is Day of the Dead Festival?
– When is the Feria del Mole? All of October 2019
– Where is the Feria del Mole? San Pedro Atocpan, Milpa Alta, Mexico City
45. Diwali
India
Diwali is known as the Festival of Lights and is another celebration of good overcoming evil. The date fluctuates depending on the year, although it usually falls around October or November, and it’s celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists across loads of countries
That means you can take your pick of where you’d like to see Diwali up close. India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Fiji, Myanmar or Trinidad and Tobago
Wherever you are, you’ll see loads of lights, candles, and fireworks and each day of the five day fest is dedicated to doing something different whether it’s shopping, decorating, or spending time with family
Given there are so many hindus, this is one of the most important world festivals
– When is Diwali? Sunday 27th October
– Where is Diwali? Everywhere
46. Albuquerque Balloon Festival
Starting off with just 13 balloons in 1972, this 9 day-long October event now pulls in 550 balloons. That makes Albuquerque, New Mexico, home to the biggest hot air balloon festival in the world.
While you can jump in a basket any day of the week, take part in the photo contest or listen to live music, Mass Ascension days are the best ones to drop by. These are the mornings all balloons and their crews gather just before sunrise so that as the sun comes up, so do they
The Albuquerque Balloon Festival is the biggest hot air balloon festival in the world, and one of the biggest world festivals too
– When is the Albuquerque Balloon Festival? October
– Where is the Albuquerque Balloon Festival? Albuquerque, New Mexico
November world festivals calendar
If you want to read about more November festivals, check out my post that goes into more depth
47. Chiang Mai Lantern Festival
Thailand
The Chiang Mai Lantern Festival is all about letting go, figuratively and literally. Yi Peng, as it’s otherwise known, sees hundreds of lanterns released into the night Thai sky while candles in small boats made from banana stalks and filled with incense and flowers float off across the water
Taking place right across the north of Thailand on the 25th November, it’s about honouring the Buddha and releasing any negativity you might have. While there’s loads of places you can catch the beautiful ritual, Chiang Mai is one of the best places to see the phenomena
It’s one of the top festivals in the world, if you like a pretty light display in the sky
– When is the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival? 25th November every year
– Where is the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival? Chiang Mai, but there are festivals all over Asia
48. Monkey Buffet Festival
Thailand
Talk about different types of world festivals, this one ticks the culture, cute animal and exotic location boxes. Located in the province of Lopburi in Thailand, it’s where locals lay loads, I’m talking 4,000kg worth, of fruit around the local temples making insane fruity towers for their furry friends, the monkeys
Originally designed back in 1989 as a tourist attraction, thousands swing by each November to see the locals’ love and appreciation for the macaques, which they say bring the area and its people good luck. The opening ceremony features people dressed up as monkeys
I mean, what a photo op
– When is the Monkey Buffet Festival? November
– Where is the Monkey Buffet Festival? Lopburi, Thailand
49. Winter Festival of Lights
Canada
If you can plan a trip to Canada between the 16th of November and the end of January, make Niagara Falls a must. Not just for the epic experience of seeing the four million cubic feet of water drop 50 metres but to catch the impressive Winter Festival of Lights
With strobe lights, dramatic tunes, tours and shows that span over 8km, Niagara to the Dufferin Islands is turned into a winter wonderland
Admission is free, although there is a suggested donation, and it’ll give you all the Christmas feels which is priceless
This may be one of the lesser known world festivals outside America, but it’s a stunner to show off to your friends about
– When is the Winter Festival of Lights? All through winter
– Where is the Winter Festival of Lights? Niagara Falls, Canada
50. Strawberry Fields
New South Wales, Australia
Festivals where the glitter and fancy dress prevail usually have the best atmosphere. Australia’s main contender is Strawberry Fields
With a focus on creative expression, this is the electronic music festival for anyone who likes their festivals wonderfully wacky. It’s easy to bond over a face full of glitter
The Strawberry Fields crowd is a loving bunch with high fives and hugs for anyone who wants to join. It’s grown from techno and psytrance to be more inclusive, but the friendly core still go to set the tone
A beautiful setting in natural surroundings for one of the best international festivals
– When is Strawberry Fields? Around 19-22 November
– Where is the Strawberry Fields Festival? Tocumwal, New South Wales, Australia
December world festivals calendar
If you want to read about more December festivals, check out my post that goes into more depth
51. Mother City Queer Project
South Africa
What a name. This Cape Town festival has been calling all ‘fun loving creatures’ since 1994 and marks a pretty important moment in South Africa’s history. All about being your fabulous self, it started as the signalling of the end of apartheid and the entering of a new era of equality
Over the years, the Mother City Queer Project has garnered more speed, sparkle and spectacular themes making it the most flamboyant fancy dress event of the year, so pack the glitter and sequins
Definitely one of the most important world festivals on the gay pride calendar
– When is the Mother City Queer Project? TBC
– Where is the Mother City Queer Project? Cape Town, South Africa
52. Chichibu Yomatsuri
Japan
A city northwest of Tokyo, Chichibu transforms itself two nights of the year, on the 2nd and 3rd of December, into a twilight wonderland. Especially, to celebrate the local shrine and its 300 plus year history
Chichibu Yomatsuri, to give the festival its full name, consists of lanterns, flute music, and the carrying of some ten tonne floats, aka mikoshi. Local men who consider it a rite of passage, carry the floats up the hill to the plaza at the City Hall just in time for the festival’s two-hour firework display. They really must love that shrine.
This is one of the most important world festivals in the Asia festivals calendar
– When is the Chichibu Yomatsuri? 2nd-3rd December
– Where is the Chichibu Yomatsuri? Chichibu, Japan
53. St Kitts-Nevis Carnival
St Kitts
Street name Sugar Mas, this carnival marks the end of the year and the start of a new one. The St Kitts-Nevis Carnival is the country’s biggest event lasting a full two weeks from Christmas right through to the new year. It’s the biggest festival in St Kitts
The Caribbean colours and calypso tunes with numerous parades, parties and performances taking place across the island make it the perfect place to escape the usual Christmas festivities. There’s also the crowning of the carnival queen, the calypso contest and the Grand Parade to watch out for
After all that, it’s just about time to collapse on the beach. And WHAT a beach it is.
One of the best world festivals in the Caribbean
I’ve not actually been to the St Kitts Carnival, but I have been to St Kitts. Check out my St Kitts restaurant guide and my guide to what to do in St Kitts too
– When is the St Kitts-Nevis Carnival? Two weeks over Christmas and New Year, main event on the 2nd January
– Where is the St Kitts-Nevis Carnival? St Kitts
54. Lyon Festival of Lights
France
Over 40 light installations brighten up the city of Lyon in December for the famous Fete des Lumieres
Taking place over four nights, there’s a variety of different artists lighting up buildings, streets, squares and parks all over the city
Lyon is a pioneer in the development of light technology and entertainment. And although light technology is definitely more common place in cities around the world at any festival, Lyon is where it all began.
Also, a great excuse to go to Lyon and eat
Definitely one of the best December world festivals to add to your festival bucket list
– When is Lyon Festival? Around 5th to 8th December
– Where is Lyon Festival? Lyon, France
55. Cosmic Convergence Festival
Guatemala
Celebrating the depth of Mayan traditions – from their culture and nature, to their lifestyle and music – the Cosmic Convergence Festival attracts a unique kind of person
It’s held in one of the most outstandingly beautiful parts of the world, Lake Atitlan, over new year. It’s a small [3000 people] transformational festival with a dedication to social impact at its core, but also a respect to Mayan music
The crowd dances to the 3 stages of world music with the energy of Lake Atitlan in the air, and a volcano as a background
One of the coolest world festivals there is
– When is Cosmic Convergence Festival? Around 5th to 8th December
– Where is Cosmic Convergence Festival? Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
International festivals around the world
And that’s it for world festivals, for now. There are seriously hundreds of festivals around the world in any given month
I hope this has opened your eyes to some of the top world festivals, and inspired you to go.
I’ll be adding to this over the course of my life, so let me know if you think I’ve missed any important festivals worldwide in the comments below, and do check out my article on the importance of festivals too