Festivals Around the World - Where to Go in 2026
From music and arts to culture and food, 2026 promises some incredible festival experiences around the globe. Here’s a guide to the top festivals to experience in 2026.
January to March - Kicking Off the Year
Sundance Film Festival – Park City, USA: 22nd January – 1st February
Sundance is the ultimate gathering for independent film lovers, offering premieres, panels, and the chance to see Oscar contenders. Pair it with a winter getaway in Utah’s ski resorts for the perfect combo of culture and adventure.
Carnival of Venice – Venice, Italy: 7th – 17th February
Step into a city of masks, gondolas, and centuries-old tradition. The Carnival of Venice brings music, theatre, and elaborate costumes to the canals, and makes for a truly magical start to the year.
Adelaide Fringe – Adelaide, Australia: 20th February – 22nd March
Australia’s biggest arts festival spreads across the city of Adelaide with street performances, theatre, visual arts, and more. With many free events, it’s perfect for families and anyone who would like to immerse themselves in culture.
Rio Carnival – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: 13th-21st February
The world’s most famous street party is an explosion of samba, colour, and energy. Join locals and visitors from across the globe dancing through the streets and experience one of the planet’s most iconic celebrations.
April to June - Music & Arts Take the Stage
Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival – Indio, California, USA
10th–12th April & 17th–19th April
This is one of the globe’s most legendary music festivals, bringing headliners, art installations, and desert vibes together for a multi-day spectacle that’s perfect for music lovers and trendsetters.
Ultra South Africa – Cape Town & Johannesburg, South Africa: 25th–26th April
This colourful electronic music festival is under the global Ultra brand, where you can expect big-name DJs, epic production, and sunny South African backdrops. A must for EDM fans.
Festival Internacional de Benicàssim – Benicàssim, Spain: 16th–18th July
This major summer music festival on Spain’s Costa del Azahar combines indie, electronic, and pop acts. Benicàssim’s white sands, blue waters, and festival stages create a perfect Mediterranean backdrop.
July to August - Summer Celebrations
Montreux Jazz Festival – Montreux, Switzerland: 3rd–18th July
Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the world’s most iconic music festivals, set on the shores of Lake Geneva. Though famous for jazz, the musically inspiring festival also features rock, pop, and world music. Stunning lakeside stages and surrounding Alps make it visually spectacular.
Sziget Festival – Budapest, Hungary: 11th-15th August
Sziget, one of the largest cultural celebrations in Europe, offers a week-long celebration on an island in the Danube River, with multiple music genres, street performances, and art installations.
Festa Major de Gràcia – Barcelona, Spain: August
Barcelona’s Gràcia neighbourhood transforms into a wonderland of street art, decorations, and live music for Festa Major de Gràcia. Each street is elaborately decorated by local communities, and the festival includes parades, concerts, and food stalls.
Notting Hill Carnival – London, UK: 29th–31st August
Europe’s largest street festival celebrates Caribbean culture with live music, street parades, dancing, and colourful costumes. This multi-cultural celebration takes place in the iconic London neighbourhood of Notting Hill.
September to November - Autumn & Cultural Highlights
Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany: 19th September – 4th October
Oktoberfest is a must-experience, lively celebration of German culture. The world’s most famous beer festival not only celebrates the country’s locally brewed beers, but also promises music, fairground rides, and delicious Bavarian food.
Amsterdam Dance Event – Amsterdam, Netherlands: 21st–25th October
The Amsterdam Dance Event is an electronic music hub where DJs, producers, and fans come together for concerts, workshops, and parties held across five days.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – New Mexico, USA: 3rd-11th October
Witness hundreds of hot-air balloons fill the skies above the Route 66 mountains in a spectacular display at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Diwali – India: October – November
The Festival of Lights is celebrated across various Indian cities with fireworks, colourful decorations, and family gatherings. Experience India’s cultural richness in Delhi, Jaipur, or Varanasi.
December - Festive Holidays & Year-End Celebrations
Christmas Markets – Vienna, Austria: Late November – December
Vienna’s historic squares come alive in the festive season, glowing with festive lights, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats. Markets like Rathausplatz offer mulled wine, gingerbread, and an enchanting holiday atmosphere.
Festival of Lights – Lyon, France: 5th-8th December
Lyon transforms into a glowing spectacle for its world-famous Fête des Lumières. Buildings, squares, and streets are illuminated with stunning light installations, 3D projections, and interactive displays.
Hogmanay – Edinburgh, Scotland: 31st December
Scotland’s legendary New Year celebration transforms Edinburgh into a city-wide party. Expect torchlight processions, street parties, live music, and spectacular fireworks over Edinburgh Castle.
Tips for Planning Your 2026 Festival Travel
- Book early - flights and accommodation are booked up quickly for major festivals.
- Combine travel & festival - extend your stay to explore nearby attractions.
- Pack wisely - weather, footwear, and festival gear can make or break the experience.
- Respect local customs - some cultural festivals (Diwali, Venice Carnival) require understanding of local traditions.
Make 2026 a Year to Remember!
Whether you’re dancing in the sand, marvelling at masks, or watching hundreds of balloons rise at dawn, these events will give you stories, photos, and memories to last a lifetime.
