Best Festivals Abroad 2023: Unforgettable Celebrations Around the World

Are you ready to immerse yourself in new cultures, taste exotic cuisines, and dance to the rhythm of live music? Then check out our list of the best festivals abroad in 2023! These events will take you on a journey of discovery, where you’ll witness ancient traditions, meet friendly locals, and create unforgettable memories. From breathtaking fireworks to colorful parades, there’s something for everyone in these top destinations. Get your passports ready and let’s explore!

1. 🎉 Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 🇧🇷

Join millions of party-goers in the streets of Rio de Janeiro for one of the world’s most famous festivals. The Carnival of Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and costumes that dates back to the 18th century. From the samba schools’ parade to the blocos’ street parties, you’ll experience the energy and passion of Brazil’s culture. Don’t forget to try the traditional feijoada, a black bean stew served with rice and pork, and sip on a refreshing caipirinha cocktail.

FAQ:

Q: When is the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro?

A: The Carnival of Rio de Janeiro usually takes place in February or March, depending on the date of Easter.

2. 🌸 Cherry Blossom Festival, Japan 🇯🇵

Witness the magic of Japan’s sakura season at the Cherry Blossom Festival. Japan’s national flower, the cherry blossom, blooms for only a few weeks in the spring, creating a stunning pink and white landscape. The festival takes place in different cities across Japan, but the best-known location is in Tokyo’s Ueno Park. You can enjoy picnics under the blooming trees, watch traditional performances, and taste the delicious sakura-flavored foods and drinks.

FAQ:

Q: When is the Cherry Blossom Festival?

A: The Cherry Blossom Festival usually takes place between late March and early May, depending on the location and weather conditions.

3. 🎭 Venice Carnival, Italy 🇮🇹

Step back in time and attend the Venice Carnival, a masquerade ball that originated in the 12th century. The Carnival is a lavish display of costumes, masks, and parties that celebrates the end of winter and the beginning of spring. You can attend the famous masked ball at the St. Mark’s Square, join the parade of boats on the Grand Canal, or simply stroll around the city’s picturesque alleys. Enjoy the Italian delicacies, such as the frittelle, a sweet fried dough, and the spritz, a cocktail made with prosecco and aperol.

FAQ:

Q: When is the Venice Carnival?

A: The Venice Carnival usually takes place in February or March, depending on the date of Easter.

4. 🍷 Grape Harvest Festival, Argentina 🇦🇷

Experience the joy of the grape harvest season at Argentina’s Wine Harvest Festival. The festival takes place in the province of Mendoza, known for its world-renowned wines. You’ll witness the traditional grape-stomping ceremony, where locals dance and sing while pressing grapes with their bare feet. You can also attend the crowning of the National Grape Harvest Queen, watch the parade of floats decorated with grapes, and sample the delicious Malbec wine.

FAQ:

Q: When is the Grape Harvest Festival?

A: The Grape Harvest Festival usually takes place in March, during the grape harvest season.

5. 🎵 Glastonbury Festival, UK 🇬🇧

Get your wellies ready and head to the Glastonbury Festival, the largest greenfield music and performing arts festival in the world. The festival takes place in Somerset, England, and attracts over 200,000 people every year. You’ll see some of the biggest names in music, from rock to pop to electronic, as well as theater, comedy, and circus performances. Don’t forget to try the famous Glastonbury cider and feast on the local food stalls.

FAQ:

Q: When is the Glastonbury Festival?

A: The Glastonbury Festival usually takes place in late June or early July.

6. 🎆 Bastille Day, France 🇫🇷

Celebrate France’s national holiday at the Bastille Day, a spectacular display of fireworks, music, and parades. The festival marks the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution and the beginning of modern France. You can watch the military parade on the Champs-Élysées, attend the open-air ball at the Place de la Bastille, and admire the Eiffel Tower’s light show. Indulge in the French cuisine, such as the escargots, the coq au vin, and the crème brûlée.

FAQ:

Q: When is the Bastille Day?

A: The Bastille Day is on July 14th.

7. 🏳️‍🌈 Pride Parade, USA 🇺🇸

Join the LGBTQ+ community and allies at the Pride Parade, a colorful and inclusive festival that celebrates love and diversity. The parade takes place in different cities across the United States, such as New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. You’ll see floats, costumes, and performances that showcase the LGBTQ+ culture and raise awareness about LGBTQ+ rights. Dance to the beats of the music, enjoy the food trucks, and show your support for equality.

FAQ:

Q: When is the Pride Parade?

A: The Pride Parade usually takes place in June, during the Pride Month.

8. 🎊 New Year’s Eve, Sydney, Australia 🇦🇺

Ring in the New Year in style at the Sydney Harbour New Year’s Eve, one of the world’s biggest fireworks displays. The event takes place in Sydney, Australia, and attracts over a million spectators every year. You’ll see a breathtaking show of fireworks, lighting effects, and music, with the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge as a backdrop. You can also attend the pre-show entertainment, boat cruises, and midnight parties. Cheers to the new beginnings!

FAQ:

Q: When is the Sydney Harbour New Year’s Eve?

A: The Sydney Harbour New Year’s Eve is on December 31st.

9. 🎨 Art Basel, Switzerland 🇨🇭

Discover the world’s leading contemporary art fair at Art Basel, held in Basel, Switzerland. The fair showcases the works of over 4,000 artists, from paintings to sculptures to installations. You’ll see the latest trends in the art world, network with art professionals, and attend the lectures and discussions. You can also explore the city’s museums and galleries, as well as its famous chocolate and cheese.

FAQ:

Q: When is Art Basel?

A: Art Basel usually takes place in June.

10. 🎭 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Experience the world’s largest arts festival at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, held in Edinburgh, Scotland. The festival features thousands of performances, from theater to comedy to music, in over 300 venues across the city. You’ll see emerging talents and established artists from around the world, as well as street performers and pop-up shows. Don’t forget to sample the haggis, a traditional Scottish dish, and to visit the city’s historic castle.

FAQ:

Q: When is the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?

A: The Edinburgh Festival Fringe usually takes place in August.

11. 🍻 Oktoberfest, Germany 🇩🇪

Prost! Raise your steins and celebrate the Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival held in Munich, Germany. The festival dates back to 1810 and attracts over 6 million visitors every year. You’ll taste the traditional Bavarian beer, served in giant mugs, and the hearty food, such as the pretzels, the schnitzels, and the sausages. You can also enjoy the amusement rides, the music tents, and the parades. Ein prosit!

FAQ:

Q: When is the Oktoberfest?

A: The Oktoberfest usually takes place from late September to early October.

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