Top 10 Must Visit Festivals Around the World in 2025

Festivals are special events that bring people together to celebrate culture, tradition, music, food, and more. They happen in many parts of the world and at different times of the year. The phrase “must visit festivals” means popular and exciting festivals that people should try to experience at least once in their life.

imagine dancing in the streets of Rio during Carnival or watching colorful lanterns float in the sky at Yi Peng in Thailand. These festivals are full of life, color, and joy. They offer unforgettable memories and a chance to see how people from different cultures celebrate.

In 2025, there are many amazing festivals happening across the globe. From ancient traditions to modern music events, this list will help you discover 10 of the best festivals you shouldn’t miss.     

Nozwa Onsen Fire Festival – Nozawa Onsen, Japan – 15 January

The Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival is one of Japan’s most exciting winter events. It takes place every year on 15 January in the snowy village of Nozawa Onsen. The festival is also called “Dosojin Matsuri.” It is held to pray for good health, a good harvest, and to celebrate new marriages and births.

At night, locals build a large wooden shrine and set it on fire. Young Men defend the shrine while others try to burn it down. The fire, snow, and shouting create a powerful and exciting scene. Visitors can enjoy warm food, sake, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a mix of danger, tradition, and fun that leaves a lasting memory.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe – Edinburgh, Scotland – August

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes place every August in Scotland It is the biggest arts festival in the world. People from many countries come to perform. You can see comedy, music, theatre, and dance. Shows happen in theatres, streets, and small places.

The city becomes busy and full of life. Artists hand out flyers and perform on the streets. Some shows are free, and some need tickets. Many famous performers started here. The Fringe is full of fun, talent, and surprises.

Cannes Film Festival – Cannes, France – May

The Cannes Film Festival happens every May in France. It takes place in the city of Cannes. It is one of the most famous film festivals in the world. Movie stars and directors walk on the red carpet. Many new films are shown for the first time.

The festival is not just for fun. It is also a place for film business. Awards are given to the best movies and actors. People from all over the world come to watch and celebrate cinema.

Highlights of the Cannes Film Festival:

• Red carpet events with movie stars
  
• World premieres of new films
  
• Awards like the Palme d’Or
  
• Glamorous dresses and fashion
  
• Film industry meetings and deals
  

Carnival — Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — February

Every February, Rio de Janeiro comes alive. Carnival is the biggest party in Brazil. It lasts for several days. People wear colorful costumes and dance in the streets. Music plays everywhere, especially samba. The whole city joins the fun

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The main event is the samba parade. It happens in a place called the Sambadrome. Samba schools compete with big floats and dancers. Crowds cheer and take photos. There are also street parties called “blocos.” Everyone is welcome. Carnival is full of joy, color, and rhythm.

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Burning Man – Black rock city,   USA_   August _ September

durning Man happens every year in the Nevada desert. It starts in August and ends in early September. People come from all over the world. They build a temporary city called Black Rock City. It is a place for art, music, and self-expression.

There are no shops or money used at Burning Man. People share food, gifts, and help. Giant art pieces and wild costumes are everywhere. At the end, a large wooden man is burned. This is a special moment. Burning Man is about community, creativity, and freedom.

Holi Festival — India — February—March

Holi is a joyful festival in India. It happens in February or March. People celebrate the arrival of spring. They throw colored powder and water at each other. Everyone laughs, dances, and sings.

The night before Holi, people light bonfires. This is called Holika Dahan. It means the win of good over evil. On Holi day, streets are full of color and fun. Friends and families come together. Holi is a time for love, forgiveness, and new beginnings.

Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany — October

Oktoberfest is a big festival in Munich, Germany. It happens every year in late September to early October. People come from all over the world. They wear traditional clothes like lederhosen and dirndls. The festival is famous for its beer and food.

There are big tents with music, dancing, and singing. People enjoy sausages, pretzels, and roast chicken. There are also fun rides and games. Families and friends celebrate together. Oktoberfest is full of joy, tradition, and good times.

International Bathtub Regatta — Dinant, Belgium — August

The International Bathtub Regatta is a fun event in Dinant, Belgium. It takes place every August on the River Meuse. People race homemade boats made from bathtubs. The boats are decorated in funny and creative ways. Each team wears costumes and tries to win the race.

Many people come to watch and cheer. The event is not about speed, but fun and imagination. There is music, food, and laughter all around. It is a great day for families and tourists. The regatta shows creativity, teamwork, and joy.

Quick Facts about the Bathtub Regatta

Feature	Details
Location	Dinant, Belgium
Time of Year	August
Type of Event	Fun boat race with bathtubs
Main Attraction	Creative boats and costumes
Atmosphere	Fun, friendly, and full of laughter

Snow & Ice Festival — Harbin, China — January—February

The Snow & Ice Festival is held in Harbin, China. It happens in January and February. It is one of the biggest winter festivals in the world. Artists create huge ice and snow sculptures. The sculptures look like castles, animals, and famous buildings.

At night, the sculptures light up with colors. The lights make them look magical. People also enjoy ice skating, snow slides, and winter shows. It is very cold, so visitors wear warm clothes. The festival is full of beauty, fun, and winter wonder.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival — Florida, USA — January

The Gasparilla Pirate Festival takes place in Tampa, Florida every January. It celebrates the legend of a pirate named José Gaspar. People dress like pirates and join a big parade. A pirate ship “invades” the city to start the fun. The streets are full of music, dancing, and beads.

Families and tourists enjoy the exciting shows. There are also food stalls, games, and live music. The event is fun for all ages. Everyone joins in the pirate spirit. Gasparilla is full of color, noise, and adventure.

FAQs

What is the significance of Diwali?

Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, often linked to Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya.

When is Christmas celebrated and how?

chgristmas is on December 25th and is celebrated with decorations, family gatherings, and gift giving.

What is Eid al-Fitr and how is it observed?

It marks the end of Ramadan and is observed with prayers, festive meals, and giving to the poor.

What happens during Chinese New Year celebrations? 

Red envelopes with money are given to children as a sign of blessings.

What is Brazil’s Carnival known for?

It’s famous for its vibrant parades, samba music, elaborate costumes, and festive street parties.

Conclusion

Festivals are special times when people come together to celebrate joy and tradition. They show the rich culture and values of different communities around the world. Each festival has its own story, food, and way of celebration. These events help people feel happy, united, and thankful.

No matter where you are from, festivals bring people closer. They remind us to enjoy life, share with others, and respect different cultures. Celebrating festivals makes life more colorful and full of meaning.