Best Festivals around the World

There’s something magical about travelling to a destination during its celebrations. Festivals provide an insight into the culture of a country or city, allowing you to immerse yourself in exciting performances, witness timeless traditions, and soak up the energy of communities coming together.

From the rhythm-filled streets of the Salvador Carnival to the awe-inspiring rituals of Bhutan’s Jambay Lhakhang Drup, we’ve curated a list of the best festivals around the world.

These events are not just gatherings, they’re once-in-a-lifetime experiences steeped in tradition and artistry that will captivate your senses and enrich your soul. Whether it’s dancing under the stars in Colombia or marvelling at the elegance of Mongolian eagle hunters, this is your invitation to discover the extraordinary in every corner of the world.

Chinese New Year is one of the biggest festivals in the world and is celebrated in all corners of the globe. Known for its night parades, firework displays, dragon dances, cultural performances, and elaborate costumes, the festival marks the beginning of the lunar calendar, combining traditions with modern festivities.

Spanning 15 days, the festival – also known as Spring Festival – is filled with energy, colour, and joy. Picture yourself at a dragon dance performance in Shanghai, savouring a chef-curated banquet featuring the finest traditional delicacies, or joining a lantern release ceremony under the starry skies of Pingxi, Taiwan.

Whether you’re strolling through Hong Kong’s flower markets, enjoying the fireworks display over Victoria Harbour, or exploring Beijing’s ancient temple fairs, step into a world of heritage and dazzling celebrations.

If you’re planning a trip to China during Chinese New Year, Beijing is a wonderful destination. Wander through the historic Ditan Temple Fair, where you can witness re-enactments of imperial rituals, stroll through the Lama Temple, where locals light incense and offer prayers for a prosperous year ahead, and enjoy a private dinner in one of the city’s luxury restaurants, with local delicacies such as Peking duck, dumplings, and nian gao. Aman Summer Palace luxury resort offers a serene spot to relax and unwind amidst the celebrations.

Salvador Carnival in Brazil is a fiesta of rhythm and energy, offering a unique and vibrant experience like no other.

Known as the largest street carnival in the world, the six-day extravaganza of music, dance, and celebration takes over the city’s streets and beaches, with millions of people taking part in the festivities.

Dance to the infectious rhythms of samba, axe, and Afro-Brazilian beats alongside revellers in vibrant costumes, watch street parades led by colourful trio of trucks, or enjoy a front-row view from a luxury camarote with gourmet dining.

During the day, explore the streets of Pelourinho, Salvador’s historic centre, take part in a drumming workshop, or retreat to a beachfront resort for some peaceful relaxation before the night’s revelry begins.

And, if you’re looking for somewhere to rest your head after an exciting evening of partying, Villa Bahia offers luxurious accommodation, personalised hospitality, and stunning views of the city’s historic district.

Kandy Esala Perahera is one of the most spectacular and culturally significant festivals in the world. Held annually over 10 days in Kandy, Sri Lanka, this vibrant Buddhist and Hindu festival is driven by a procession that embraces fascinating cultural traditions, religious devotion, and artistic expression.

At the heart of the festival, evening processions feature elephants adorned with elaborate decorations alongside traditional Kandyan musicians, drummers, and dancers. These provide an opportunity to gain a first-hand insight into Sri Lanka’s culture.

Ensure you get the best views by reserving a balcony or private veranda overlooking the route of the procession.

The Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival in Bhutan celebrates the establishment of Jambay Lhakhang – among the oldest and most sacred temples in the country.

This is one of the most important and significant events in the Bhutanese Buddhist calendar, this colourful festival attracts visitors from around the world.

Watch sacred ritual dances performed by monks, depicting various deities and mythical creatures, and observe the awe-inspiring fire ritual, known as Mewang, where devotees leap through flames to symbolise purification and renewal.

This spiritual festival also provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the spiritual significance of Buddhism, away from the usual tourist crowds.

Held in the rugged Altai Mountains of Mongolia, the Eagle Hunters Festival is a spectacular celebration of the ancient tradition of eagle hunting, which has been widely practiced by the Kazakh people of western Mongolia for centuries.

Held in October each year, the festival celebrates the skill and heritage of eagle hunting, as well as the profound bond between humans and nature.

Showcasing an ancient way of life that has been passed down for generations, the festival brings together a visual feast of traditional Kazakh costumes, vibrant textiles, and the incredible grace of golden eagles in flight. Witness the teamwork of hunters and their eagles, try delicious local foods, watch Mongolian dancing, and try your hand at traditional crafts.

The area’s breathtaking landscape provides the ultimate backdrop to this special festival. Don’t forget your camera!

The Barranquilla Carnival in Colombia is one of the most impressive festivals in the world, offering an explosion of colour, dance, and music, as well as an energy difficult to find anywhere else.

Deeply rooted in Colombian and Caribbean traditions, this carnival brings together African, European, and indigenous influences to create an unforgettable event with elaborate parades, vibrant costumes, and a soundtrack influenced by traditional Colombian rhythms.

Held every February in the lively coastal city of Barranquilla, the four-day Carnival opens with the Battle of the Flowers parade – a dazzling procession of floats adorned with breath-taking designs and accompanied by dancers in flamboyant costumes. The Grand Parade and street parties that follow are equally as captivating.

Secure VIP seating along the parade route for unobstructed views of the festivities, or arrange an exclusive guided tour to learn more about the cultural significance of the festival’s traditions.

If you’re seeking an authentic and exhilarating cultural experience like no other, make sure the Carnival of Barranquilla is on your itinerary.

A celebration of indulgence and joy before lent, Mardi Gras is celebrated in style across Brazil and the Caribbean.

In Brazil, expect parades and gatherings with music and dancing, stunning costumes, and floats. From Salvador to Recife, parades of bloco groups fill the streets with rhythmic samba and axe beats.

Meanwhile, in the Caribbean, Madi Gras blends French, African, and island traditions, resulting in high energy celebrations with colourful costumes, delicious Caribbean food, and lively street parties. Trinidad and Tobago are world-famous for carnival, featuring mesmerising steel pan music, bold costumes, and exuberant masquerade bands, while Martinique hosts a more intimate celebration, with traditional Vavla costumes and a fusion of French Creole heritage.

For those who seek not just a trip, but an unforgettable journey, cazenove+loyd offers tailor-made luxury travel that goes beyond the ordinary. Our personalised service and  insider knowledge ensures every aspect of your festival getaway is crafted with care, from handpicked accommodations to one-of-a-kind experiences that showcase the very best of each destination.

With access to private tours and hidden gems, we can elevate your holiday and turn your dream festival experience into a fantastic reality. Get in touch with our team today so we can start planning your festival getaway.