As summer approaches, so does festival season. From music festivals to cultural events, outdoor festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience something new. With so many festivals to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which ones to attend. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best outdoor festivals to attend.
1. Burning Man – Black Rock City, Nevada
Burning Man is more than just a festival. It’s an entire city that springs up in the middle of the Nevada desert each year. Participants bring their own supplies, food, water, and survival gear to create a temporary community of art, music, and self-expression. Burning Man has become a haven for artists, creatives, and adventurers looking to leave behind the everyday world and embrace the unknown. Although the festival isn’t for everyone, it is an experience unlike any other.
2. Coachella – Indio, California
Coachella is one of the most popular music festivals in the world. Held over two weekends in April, the festival attracts some of the biggest names in music. With multiple stages, art installations, and food vendors, Coachella offers something for everyone. Over the years, Coachella has become as much about the fashion as the music, with attendees showing off their most psychedelic outfits. If you’re a music lover, Coachella is a must-see.
3. Glastonbury Festival – Somerset, England
Glastonbury is one of the largest and most famous music festivals in the world. Held over five days on a farm in Somerset, England, the festival features a diverse lineup of musicians, from rock legends to up-and-coming artists. But music isn’t the only draw – Glastonbury also features live comedy acts, theater performances, and a massive outdoor market. With over 200,000 attendees, Glastonbury is a true bucket-list festival.
4. Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany
Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival, held annually in Munich, Germany. With a history that dates back to 1810, the festival attracts millions of visitors each year, all eager to drink beer and celebrate German culture. Oktoberfest features numerous massive tents, each with their own band and unique atmosphere. If you’re a beer lover, this festival is a must-visit.
5. La Tomatina – Bunol, Spain
La Tomatina is a festival unlike any other. Held annually in the town of Bunol, Spain, the festival involves throwing tomatoes at other participants. It may not sound like fun, but it’s actually a wildly popular event that attracts thousands of people each year. The festival is part of a larger celebration of the town’s patron saint, but the tomato-throwing is what draws the crowds. If you’re looking for a truly unique outdoor festival experience, La Tomatina is definitely worth considering.
6. Holi – India
Holi is a Hindu festival that marks the beginning of spring. The festival is known for its vibrant colors, with participants throwing brightly colored powder on each other. The festival is a celebration of love and unity, with people from all walks of life coming together to dance, sing, and enjoy the festivities. Although Holi is primarily celebrated in India, it has become increasingly popular in other parts of the world as well.
7. Carnaval – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Carnaval is a massive street party that takes place in Rio de Janeiro each year. The festival begins on the Friday before Ash Wednesday and lasts for five days. Participants wear elaborate costumes and dance through the streets, with music blasting from every corner. The festival features numerous parades, with samba schools competing for the title of the best school. If you’re looking for a high-energy, colorful festival, Carnaval is definitely worth considering.
8. Mardi Gras – New Orleans, Louisiana
Mardi Gras is a festival that has become synonymous with New Orleans. The festival begins on Epiphany and culminates on Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday. Participants wear masks and costumes and parade through the streets, throwing beads and trinkets to the crowds. Although Mardi Gras can be a bit wild, it’s also a celebration of community, culture, and tradition.
9. Diwali – India
Diwali is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil. The festival is usually held in October or November and is marked by the lighting of lamps and candles, fireworks, and the exchange of gifts. The festival has become increasingly popular in other parts of the world, with cities like London and Dubai hosting large celebrations.
10. Edinburgh Fringe Festival – Edinburgh, Scotland
The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the world’s largest arts festival. Held annually in August, the festival features over 3,000 shows, from theater and comedy to music and dance. With performers from all over the world coming to Edinburgh to showcase their talents, the festival offers a truly unique and diverse cultural experience.
Whether you’re a music lover, beer enthusiast, culture junkie, or just looking for something unique to experience, there’s an outdoor festival out there for you. From the massive crowds at Coachella to the laid-back vibe of Burning Man, there’s no shortage of festivals to choose from. So grab your friends, pack your bags, and get ready for the summer of a lifetime.
