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If you love to travel, there’s nothing more exciting than planning a trip around a festival or holiday abroad. From colorful street parties in South America to ancient rituals in the Andes, these celebrations bring cultures to life in ways no guidebook ever could.
Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or 40s, festivals are the perfect way to meet new people, celebrate traditions, and create unforgettable memories. Here’s your ultimate bucket list of the best festivals and holidays to travel for.
Holi in India — The Festival of Colors
- When: March
- Where: Vrindavan, Delhi, Jaipur, and across India
Holi is one of India’s most joyful celebrations. Streets transform into rainbow-hued dance parties as locals and travelers alike throw powdered colors, sing, and celebrate the arrival of spring.
Why you should go: It’s vibrant, chaotic, and filled with pure joy. Plus, it’s one of the most photogenic cultural festivals in the world.
Pro tips:
- Wear white clothes and shos you don’t mind staining. Long sleeves are best if your skin is sensitive.
- Keep your phone/camera in a waterproof pouch.
- Respect personal space before tossing colors.
- Wear contact lenses (not glasses unless it's a cheap pair) and bring some goggles just in case to protect my eyes.
Read More: A Complete Packing List For India’s Golden Triangle.
Carnival in Brazil — The World’s Biggest Party
- When: February (just before Lent)
- Where: Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador
Rio’s Carnival is legendary: samba parades, elaborate floats, and millions of people dancing until sunrise. Street parties (blocos) run nonstop, and the energy is unlike anything else in the world.
Why you should go: The ultimate combo of music, culture, and nightlife.
Pro tips:
- Join a bloco for a true local experience.
- Book accommodations 6+ months in advance.
- Wear light clothing—it’s hot and crowded.
Lantern Festival in Thailand — Yi Peng & Loy Krathong
- When: November (dates vary with the lunar calendar)
- Where: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Thousands of lanterns light up the sky during Yi Peng, while Loy Krathong fills rivers with candlelit offerings. It’s a spiritual, breathtaking festival that’s both peaceful and photogenic.
Why you should go: One of the most magical and Instagram-worthy festivals on Earth.
Pro tips:
- Arrive early for the best lantern release spots.
- Avoid buying lanterns outside official venues (some aren’t eco-friendly).
- Bring a tripod if you want epic photos.
St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland — Emerald Isle Celebration
- When: March 17
- Where: Dublin, Galway, Cork
Experience Ireland’s pride firsthand: parades, live music, Guinness flowing endlessly, and a warm, festive atmosphere.
Why you should go: A cultural celebration with unmatched nightlife.
Pro tips:
- The Dublin parade is huge, but Galway offers a more local vibe.
- Book pubs and tours in advance—they fill up quickly.
- Wear green (locals take it seriously!).
- As alcohol is a main theme in this holiday, be sure to follow my article on Dublin safety tips!
From Jamie our Irish Trip Leader: St Patrick’s day to Irish people isn’t necessarily a celebration of the man himself but more of a celebration of Irish culture in general. We are very proud folk and st Patrick’s is a day(or week) that we get to fully embrace and share the irishness, through parades or live music or even just going for a few pints with friends, it’s a lovely time of year to celebrate what makes us….. us!
Inti Raymi in Peru — Festival of the Sun
- When: June 24
- Where: Cusco, Peru
Dating back to the Inca Empire, Inti Raymi celebrates the Sun God with rituals, dances, and ceremonies at Cusco and Sacsayhuamán. I’ve been to the sun fest a couple of times for the sun fest, including sitting with a local shaman who led us into the mountains and explained the importance of the day to the Quechua people.
Why you should go: It’s a living history lesson that connects you directly to Peru’s Incan roots.
Pro tips:
- Buy tickets for the main ceremonies in advance.
- Stay hydrated—Cusco sits at 11,000 ft elevation.
- Cusco can be cold at night this time of year, but you are nearly guaranteed beautiful sunny weather during the day. Pack for Peru appropriately!
- Pair the festival with a trek to Machu Picchu.
Christmas Markets in Europe — A Winter Wonderland
- When: Late November – December
- Where: Germany, Austria, France, Czech Republic
Cobblestone streets, mulled wine, fairy lights, and handmade gifts—Europe’s Christmas markets are pure holiday magic.
Why you should go: Cozy vibes, holiday cheer, and postcard-worthy settings.
Pro tips:
- Bring cash (many vendors don’t take cards).
- Carry a reusable mug for Glühwein.
- Dress warmly—temperatures drop quickly at night.
Check our Article for the Ultimate Guide: Packing List For Europe: What To Bring For The Different Seasons and Regions of Europe
Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico — Día de los Muertos
- When: October 31 – November 2
- Where: Oaxaca, Mexico
Families honor loved ones with vibrant altars, skeleton parades, and food offerings. Oaxaca is the heart of this meaningful celebration.
Why you should go: A colorful, spiritual festival that mixes joy with remembrance.
Pro tips:
- Visit local cemeteries respectfully.
- Try traditional foods like pan de muerto.
- Join a local parade for the best atmosphere.
Oktoberfest in Germany — Beer, Pretzels & Bavarian Culture
- When: Late September – Early October
- Where: Munich, Germany
The world’s largest beer festival features Bavarian music, lederhosen, and endless steins of beer.
Why you should go: It’s Europe’s most famous festival for food, drink, and fun.
Pro tips:
- Reserve a tent table months ahead.
- Wear traditional outfits (you can rent locally).
- Bring cash—ATMs are crowded.
Festival Travel FAQs
What is the best festival in the world to attend?
It depends on your style—party lovers can’t miss Carnival in Rio, while cultural travelers will love Inti Raymi in Peru or Day of the Dead in Mexico.
Which festivals are the most affordable for travelers?
St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland and Holi in India are among the most budget-friendly. Oktoberfest and European Christmas markets tend to be pricier.
What’s the safest way to attend Holi in India?
Stick to organized events, travel in groups, and use eco-friendly colors. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
When is the best time to book flights for international festivals?
Aim for 6–9 months in advance for big festivals like Carnival, or Oktoberfest. Smaller festivals may be fine at 3–4 months out.
Can solo travelers enjoy these festivals?
Absolutely! Festivals are great for meeting people. Group trips can make the experience easier and safer if you’re nervous about going alone.
Final Thoughts on Festivals
Festivals aren’t just events—they’re cultural gateways. Whether it’s dancing in Rio, throwing colors in India, or sipping mulled wine in Germany, these moments will become some of your most unforgettable travel stories.
Want to join in without the stress of planning? Check out our curated festival trips with Under30Experiences and experience these celebrations with like-minded travelers.
