Traveling for a festival or seasonal tradition gives you a reason to pick a place and a date. These are well-known events and seasons worth planning around.
- Christmas in ViennaAustria
Christmas markets, concerts and decorated streets in December.
- New Year's Eve in SydneyAustralia
Famous harbor fireworks. Book accommodation far ahead.
- Carnival in RioBrazil
Parades and street parties before Lent. Dates change each year.
- Easter in SevilleSpain
Holy Week processions with a long tradition. Book early.
- Diwali in JaipurIndia
The festival of lights, marked with lamps and markets. The date changes each year.
- Songkran in Chiang MaiThailand
Thai New Year in mid-April, known for water festivities.
- Oktoberfest in MunichGermany
A beer festival from late September into early October. Reserve hotels early.
- Hogmanay in EdinburghScotland
Scottish New Year celebrations with street parties and fireworks.
- Day of the Dead in OaxacaMexico
Early November celebrations with altars, parades and cemetery vigils.
- Cherry blossoms in KyotoJapan
Spring blooms usually peak from late March to early April, but timing varies.
Before you book
Book early, since flights and hotels fill up and prices rise around major events. Confirm the event dates for your year, as many festivals move annually.
Details, prices and dates change, so confirm them before you book. Our lists are editorial picks, not paid placements. Confirm prices and details with the provider.