Summer Festivals Around the World: Where to Celebrate

Published on March 8, 2025

by Zephyr Drake

Summer is a time for festivities, and what better way to celebrate the season than by attending a summer festival around the world? With so many exciting and unique festivals taking place, it can be overwhelming to choose just one to attend. But fear not, as we have compiled a list of the best summer festivals from around the world for you to add to your travel bucket list. So get ready to dance, eat, and have a great time at these amazing summer festivals!Summer Festivals Around the World: Where to Celebrate

1. The Carnival of Venice, Italy

If you’re a fan of masquerade balls, then the Carnival of Venice in Italy is the perfect summer festival for you. With its stunning architecture and rich history, Venice serves as the perfect backdrop for this unique festival. The carnival dates back to the 13th century and is known for its elaborate masks, costumes, and street performances. Join in on the fun, and experience the magical atmosphere of the Carnival of Venice.

What to Expect:

The Carnival of Venice is a 2-week long festival, with the main events taking place in Venice’s St. Mark’s Square. Expect to see people dressed in elaborate costumes and masks, posing for pictures and parading around the square. You can also catch traditional music performances, street artists, and even a grand fireworks display.

2. Glastonbury Festival, United Kingdom

Known as one of the biggest music festivals in the world, the Glastonbury Festival in the UK is a must-visit for all music lovers. This 5-day festival showcases a diverse lineup of artists, from mainstream acts to up-and-coming musicians. Besides the music, the festival also offers a wide range of food and drinks, markets, and other creative performances. Get your wellington boots ready, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience at Glastonbury.

What to Expect:

The Glastonbury Festival offers a variety of stages and performances, including the Pyramid Stage, the Other Stage, and the Acoustic Stage. The festival also includes an extensive lineup of comedy, theater, and dance acts. With over 135,000 attendees, this festival is a massive celebration of music and arts, and you don’t want to miss it.

3. Obon Festival, Japan

The Obon Festival in Japan is a summer celebration that honors ancestors and the spirits of the dead. It is a time for families to come together, and for communities to celebrate their heritage and traditions. During this festival, people light traditional lanterns, dance, and perform rituals to honor the spirits of their ancestors. The Obon Festival is a beautiful blend of joy and reverence, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.

What to Expect:

The Obon Festival is typically held in the middle of August and varies from region to region in Japan. Expect to see colorful yukatas and traditional music and dance performances. There will also be a variety of food stalls, games, and other cultural activities for visitors to enjoy. Join in on the festivities and experience the rich culture and traditions of Japan at the Obon Festival.

4. Mawazine Festival, Morocco

The Mawazine Festival in Morocco is a celebration of music and international culture. With its location in the vibrant city of Rabat, this festival attracts more than 2 million visitors each year. Mawazine offers a diverse lineup of local and international artists, making it one of the best summer festivals in Africa. Immerse yourself in the music, art, and culture of Morocco at this electrifying festival.

What to Expect:

At the Mawazine Festival, you can expect to see a range of music genres, from pop to traditional Moroccan music. There are also cultural workshops, exhibitions, and international food stands for visitors to explore. The festival takes place in various venues, such as open-air theaters and historic sites, adding to the unique and vibrant atmosphere of the event.

5. Ultra Europe, Croatia

If electronic dance music (EDM) is your thing, then the Ultra Europe festival in Croatia is a must-visit for you. This 3-day festival brings together some of the best DJs and electronic music producers from around the world. With its stunning location in the city of Split, Ultra Europe offers a perfect mix of music, sun, and sea. Get your party on at this high-energy summer festival!

What to Expect:

Ultra Europe features some of the biggest names in EDM, such as Marshmello, David Guetta, and Afrojack. Besides the main stage performances, there are also various parties and boat cruises that take place throughout the weekend. With its picturesque setting and world-renowned DJs, Ultra Europe is a must-visit festival for all EDM fans.

Summer festivals are a great way to experience different cultures, music, and traditions while having a fantastic time. With this list of summer festivals around the world, you can start planning your next adventure and make unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, grab your festival outfit, and get ready to celebrate summer at these amazing festivals!