"Lanterns floating gracefully in the evening sky during a cultural festival, illuminated against a twilight backdrop."

Add these global cultural events to your travel bucket list

Most destinations have grand cultural events that attract visitors from across the globe. These events are a celebration of history, culture, and community.

Attending one of these festivals is akin to a badge of honour in the world of travel. In order to earn that badge, we’ve curated a list of cultural events from around the world that should be on your travel bucket list.

Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany

Dates for 2025: September 20 – October 5
About: Oktoberfest, the world’s largest folk festival started in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration. Over the years, it has transformed into an iconic beer festival featuring traditional Bavarian culture.
What to expect: Massive beer tents, traditional German music, hearty Bavarian cuisine, and revellers dressed in dirndls and lederhosen.
How to experience it: Reserve seats at one of the famous beer tents, try authentic German brews and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Visit the fairgrounds to enjoy amusement rides and cultural shows.
More info: oktoberfest.de

St. Patrick’s Day – Ireland

Dates for 2025: March 17
About: Celebrating Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved from a religious feast day to a global celebration of Irish heritage. It traces its roots back to the 17th century.
What to expect: Parades filled with music, dance, and floats; cities awash in green; and an abundance of traditional Irish food and drinks.
How to experience it: Join the main parade in Dublin for an unforgettable spectacle, then explore local pubs to enjoy live music and traditional Irish cheer.

Carnival – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Dates for 2025: February 28 – March 4
About: Carnival is a pre-Lenten festival with origins dating back to Portuguese colonial times. Over centuries, it has evolved into the world’s most extravagant celebration of samba and Brazilian culture.
What to expect: Samba parades at the Sambadrome, street parties, elaborate costumes, and electrifying music.
How to experience it: Book tickets for the Sambadrome parade, join blocos (street parties), and embrace the vibrant energy of Rio.

La Tomatina – Buñol, Spain

Dates for 2025: August 27
About: La Tomatina began in 1945 as a spontaneous food fight and has since become a globally recognized event. Participants throw overripe tomatoes at each other in a fun, messy celebration.
What to expect: A one-hour tomato fight, pre-event festivities, and a massive cleanup operation afterward.
How to experience it: Arrive early to secure your spot, wear clothes you don’t mind discarding, and enjoy the pre-fight paella feast in the town square.

Mardi Gras – New Orleans, USA

Dates for 2025: February 25
About: Rooted in French Catholic traditions, Mardi Gras marks the last day before Lent. It has grown into a massive cultural celebration known for its elaborate parades and vibrant energy.
What to expect: Colorful floats, masked balls, bead-throwing traditions, and live jazz performances.
How to experience it: Secure a spot along the parade route, visit Bourbon Street for after-parties, and indulge in King Cake, a traditional Mardi Gras treat.

Holi – India

Dates for 2025: March 13–14
About: Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring. Its origins lie in Hindu mythology and have spread across the world as a symbol of joy and unity.
What to expect: Smearing of colorful powders, water fights, traditional music and dance, and festive sweets like gujiya.
How to experience it: Join local celebrations in cities like Mathura and Vrindavan, or experience community events in Delhi and Jaipur.

Songkran – Thailand

Dates for 2025: April 13–15
About: Songkran marks the Thai New Year with water fights symbolizing purification and renewal. This centuries-old festival is deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions.
What to expect: City-wide water battles, temple visits, and traditional processions.
How to experience it: Visit Chiang Mai for the largest celebrations or join the festive chaos in Bangkok’s Silom area. Don’t forget to wear quick-drying clothes!

Diwali – India

Dates for 2025: October 21–25
About: Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali signifies the victory of light over darkness. This ancient Hindu festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and among Indian communities worldwide.
What to expect: Homes lit with oil lamps, vibrant fireworks, delicious feasts, and exchange of gifts.
How to experience it: Explore Jaipur’s illuminated bazaars or visit Varanasi for a spectacular display of lights along the Ganges.

Harbin Ice and Snow Festival – Harbin, China

Dates for 2025: January 5 – February 25
About: Starting as a local ice lantern festival, Harbin’s Ice and Snow Festival has grown into a global attraction featuring massive ice sculptures and snow art.
What to expect: Intricately carved ice palaces, illuminated displays, and winter sports.
How to experience it: Dress warmly and explore the Ice and Snow World at night for a magical experience.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe – Edinburgh, Scotland

Dates for 2025: August 1–25
About: Fringe began in 1947 as an alternative to the Edinburgh International Festival. It’s now the world’s largest arts festival, showcasing performers from every corner of the globe.
What to expect: Theatre, comedy, music, and dance performances in venues across the city.
How to experience it: Book tickets early for popular shows, but leave room in your schedule to explore hidden gems.

Qatar National Day – Qatar

Dates for 2025: December 18
About: Qatar National Day commemorates the unification of Qatar in 1878 under Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani. The event has evolved into a grand celebration of Qatari heritage.
What to expect: Parades, cultural exhibitions, fireworks, and traditional shows showcasing Qatari culture.
How to experience it: Visit Doha to enjoy the National Parade on the Corniche and the spectacular evening fireworks display.