Festivals bring people together — whether you crave colorful parades, ancient traditions, legendary music acts, or mouth-watering food fairs, 2025 promises an incredible line-up of events for every traveler’s bucket list. From India’s vivid Holi to Japan’s serene cherry blossoms, this guide covers the Best Festivals Around the World 2025 — with dates, what to expect, and tips to plan your visit.
1. Rio Carnival, Brazil – February 28 to March 5, 2025
Where: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When: February 28 – March 5, 2025
No list of the Best Festivals Around the World 2025 is complete without Rio Carnival. Dubbed the world’s biggest party, over two million revelers hit the streets daily. Samba parades, extravagant costumes, street parties (blocos), and non-stop music fill the city for a whole week. Secure your tickets for the Sambadrome early, and don’t miss local blocos for a more authentic vibe.
Pro Tip: Book accommodation months in advance — Ipanema and Copacabana are favorite bases.
2. Holi Festival, India – March 13-14, 2025
Where: All over India (Mathura & Vrindavan are iconic)
When: March 13-14, 2025
Celebrate the festival of colors in India, where locals and tourists gather to throw colored powders, dance to drums, and spread joy. Holi marks the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring. Join in for vibrant street parties, sweets, and traditional music.
Pro Tip: Wear old clothes — you won’t get them clean again! Mathura, Vrindavan, and Jaipur are top spots for an unforgettable Holi.
3. Cherry Blossom Festival, Japan – March to April 2025
Where: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka
When: Late March – Mid-April 2025 (peak bloom varies by region)
Japan’s sakura (cherry blossom) season is pure magic. Families picnic under blooming trees in a centuries-old custom called hanami. Major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto host light-ups, tea ceremonies, and festivals in gardens and parks.
Pro Tip: Book train passes in advance to catch blooms across regions — from Tokyo’s Ueno Park to Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path.
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4. Glastonbury Festival, UK – June 25-29, 2025
Where: Somerset, England
When: June 25-29, 2025
Europe’s most iconic music festival returns with massive headliners and a legendary vibe. From rock and pop to world music and arts, Glastonbury is a rite of passage for festival lovers.
Pro Tip: Tickets sell out in minutes. Register early and try resale options. Bring wellies — British summer weather is unpredictable!
5. San Fermin (Running of the Bulls), Spain – July 6-14, 2025
Where: Pamplona, Spain
When: July 6-14, 2025
One of Spain’s most thrilling (and controversial) festivals, San Fermin attracts daredevils to run with bulls through Pamplona’s narrow streets. Beyond the run, the fiesta is filled with parades, traditional music, fireworks, and endless sangria.
Pro Tip: If you don’t want to run, book a balcony spot for a safe view!
6. Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Scotland – August 1-25, 2025
Where: Edinburgh, Scotland
When: August 1-25, 2025
The world’s largest arts festival turns the Scottish capital into a stage for comedians, musicians, actors, and performers from every corner of the globe. From street acts on the Royal Mile to ticketed shows in hidden venues — there’s something for everyone.
Pro Tip: Book accommodation early — the whole city sells out!
7. Oktoberfest, Germany – September 20 to October 5, 2025
Where: Munich, Germany
When: September 20 – October 5, 2025
Raise your steins! Oktoberfest is the world’s biggest beer festival, with huge tents, traditional Bavarian music, hearty food, and millions of liters of beer. Locals and tourists wear lederhosen and dirndls for a true Bavarian experience.
Pro Tip: Reserve a table in a beer tent if you’re going with a group — weekends get packed.
8. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, USA – October 4-12, 2025
Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
When: October 4-12, 2025
Witness the skies fill with hundreds of colorful hot air balloons at the world’s largest balloon festival. The early morning mass ascensions and evening glows are a sight to behold.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers — desert mornings are chilly! Don’t forget your camera.
9. Diwali, India – October 21-26, 2025
Where: Across India (Varanasi, Jaipur, Amritsar, Delhi)
When: October 21-26, 2025
Diwali, the festival of lights, is India’s grandest celebration. Families decorate homes with diyas (oil lamps), exchange sweets, and light fireworks to symbolize the victory of light over darkness.
Pro Tip: Varanasi’s Ganga Aarti and Jaipur’s illuminated palaces are especially stunning during Diwali.
10. Day of the Dead, Mexico – November 1-2, 2025
Where: Oaxaca & Mexico City, Mexico
When: November 1-2, 2025
Día de los Muertos honors departed loved ones with vibrant parades, face paint, marigolds, music, and feasting. Oaxaca’s streets come alive with altars, skeletons, and candlelit vigils. It’s not morbid — it’s a joyous celebration of life and memory.
Pro Tip: Book local tours for the best neighborhood altars and processions.
Planning Your Festival Trip in 2025
When planning to experience the Best Festivals Around the World 2025, remember:
✅ Book flights and stays early — festival cities sell out fast.
✅ Always check entry requirements — especially if you need a visa.
✅ Respect local customs and rules — many festivals have deep cultural roots.
✅ Pack smart — from rain boots at Glastonbury to all-white outfits for Holi.
Whether you’re chasing samba in Brazil, colors in India, or music in the UK, 2025’s global festival calendar promises unforgettable memories.
Ready to pack your bags? Bookmark this guide to the Best Festivals Around the World 2025 — your roadmap to dance, eat, sing, and celebrate with the world!
