Why Visit A Cultural Festival?

Have you ever considered planning a trip around family-friendly festivals? When traveling, some of the most memorable moments for our family have been times when we have stumbled upon cultural events.

Most of the time these haven’t been a planned part of the trip. There have been parades, concerts, and other celebrations. When we were young, we partied at Carnaval. In the last couple of years, we have celebrated King’s Night and King’s Day in the Netherlands. When we were in the Galapagos, the town put on a little Halloween party with a haunted house and everything. We then meandered down the street and joined locals out having a pig roast and enjoying each other’s company. It made the evening even more special to share it with the people that lived there!

The following list of family-friendly festivals are all culturally significant for the communities where they are located. It’s a great opportunity to learn first hand about another culture. What better way is there than kick starting a family vacation at a fun festival? 

Important Considerations When Booking Your Trip

Because all of the family-friendly festivals and events are popular, there are a few things you need to consider: 

Book Your Flight And Hotel Early

All of these festivals are fun but that also means they are going to be busy! Booking your lodging and flight early will give you more options and hopefully save you a little money. Book your flight using kiwi.com to find a great deal!

Some of the links on this post are affiliate links. When clicking on the links and booking travel, I receive a small commission with no extra costs for you. Please note, I only recommend brands I actually use and trust. Please see full disclosure here.

Purchase Event Tickets

Do research on the event and find out if you need to get a ticket or not. If so, buy your tickets well in advance. Also look at popular attractions in the area that you want to visit. Trips like these should be planned out so that you can go to the events and other tourist attractions in the area without problems. I like tours through Viator or buying tickets to specific attractions or city passes through Tiqets.

Make Dinner Reservations

Whenever you travel, making dinner reservations is advised. It is harder and harder these days to just stumble into a great restaurant and get a table. When there is a festival in town, there most likely will be some street food that you can eat, so you won’t starve. However, if you are looking for a high quality sit down restaurant, booking that reservation in advance is essential. Or look into EatWith where you can dine with locals that love to cook in the community.

Familiarize Yourself With Local Culture And Customs

Many festivals revolve around religious ceremonies and traditions. Even if they aren’t, being aware of a country’s customs and culture before arriving is always a good practice. Making sure you know what is frowned upon is important so that you don’t offend the culture. Remember that you are participating in THEIR festival and that you should always be respectful. 

Stay Safe And Healthy

There will be crowds at these festivals. Be sure to keep your valuables close to the front of your body and not in your back pocket. Preferably in a pocket with a zipper.  Follow all local regulations. For example, some places you can’t drink in the streets and others you can. Also, stay hydrated and have fun!

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Now Onto The Family-Friendly Festivals!

These family-friendly festivals are in order by date. 

St. Patrick’s Day

When: March 17th, 2024

Where: Dublin, Ireland

What is the festival all about?

Saint Patrick’s Day in Ireland is a jubilant and spirited celebration commemorating the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. The day is marked by countless festivities, with vibrant parades winding through the streets of cities and towns, showcasing Irish culture and heritage. Iconic landmarks, such as the River Liffey in Dublin, become a sea of green as locals and visitors alike wear the color in various forms. 

Traditional Irish music and dance fill the air, creating a lively and contagious energy. Many people attend church services to honor Saint Patrick. Others partake in more secular celebrations, enjoying lively pub gatherings and feasting on traditional Irish dishes. The warm and merry atmosphere makes Saint Patrick’s Day in Ireland an unforgettable experience. 

Why is it good for kids?

There are numerous positive aspects to Saint Patrick’s day for kids. The cheerful spirit fosters a sense of community, providing opportunities for families to come together and create lasting memories. The colorful parades, filled with lively music and captivating performances, create an entertaining and visually stimulating experience for children. The emphasis on wearing green and the playful incorporation of symbols like leprechauns and shamrocks can spark children’s interest. Many communities organize family-oriented events, ensuring a safe and inclusive atmosphere for children to participate in the celebrations in addition to learning about Irish history and traditions. 

For grandstand tickets to the parade and additional information, check out the St. Patrick’s Day Festival website. 

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Holi – The Festival of Colors

When: March 25, 2024

Where:  Various locations in India 

Mathura and Vrindavan for an authentic experience or Jaipur offers a well organized and family-friendly atmosphere  

What is the festival all about?

Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, is a vibrant and joyous celebration deeply rooted in Hindu tradition but embraced by people of various cultures and communities worldwide. Holi marks the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of the season of renewal. The highlight of this cheery festival is the playful throwing and smearing of brightly colored powders, known as “gulal,” on friends, family, and even strangers.

Revelers gather in open spaces, streets, and public squares, creating a kaleidoscope of hues. In addition, they chase each other with water balloons and engage in spirited water fights. Traditional music and dance, along with the consumption of festive sweets and drinks, add to the infectious energy of Holi. 

This joyous occasion fosters a sense of unity, breaking down barriers as they celebrate life and the beauty of diversity. Don’t we all need a little more good in our lives?

Why is it good for kids? 

Holi is particularly beneficial for kids as it offers a unique and enjoyable way for them to experience cultural traditions and foster a sense of unity and joy. The festival’s emphasis on colors and playfulness makes it an ideal occasion for children to participate. The fun activities involved, such as water fights and games, provide a healthy outlet for energy. Additionally, the cultural significance of Holi introduces children to diverse customs, promoting an understanding and appreciation for different cultures. This festival encourages a spirit of sharing, kindness, and promoting positive social values among children.

For more information on Holi, read this article from Travel and Leisure. The article also includes various locations where Holi is celebrated in the U.S. 

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Songkran

When: April 13-15th, 2024

Where: Various Locations in Thailand

Chiang Mai is supposed to be the best place to celebrate and also the largest, but this  also means it can be very rowdy.

Phuket is another great location to join in the water fight!

What is the festival all about?

Songkran, the Thai New Year festival, is a vibrant and joyous celebration that takes place annually in mid-April. Spanning several days, Songkran is renowned for its exuberant water fights, symbolizing the cleansing of the past year’s misfortunes and the welcoming of a fresh start.

The streets come alive with laughter as participants, armed with water guns and buckets, playfully drench each other in a communal outpouring of joy. Traditional rituals, such as the pouring of scented water on Buddha statues and the hands of elders as a gesture of respect, add a cultural depth to the festivities.

Amidst the water festivities, lively parades, cultural performances, and vibrant processions take place, showcasing Thailand’s rich heritage. Songkran is not only a time for renewal and spiritual reflection but also a joyous expression of community spirit and togetherness.

Why is it good for kids?

Songkran Festival is a delightful and family-friendly celebration. First, the water-based activities during Songkran, such as water fights and playful splashing, provide a refreshing and enjoyable way for children to cool off in the warm April weather. Who doesn’t love a good water fight in the sweltering heat? The traditional aspects of Songkran offer valuable opportunities for children to learn about Thai customs and traditions. Moreover, the festival’s emphasis on renewal and starting anew can impart positive values to children.

Read this article on Lonely Planet for a complete guide.

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Lantern Floating in Hawai‘i 

When: Memorial Day, May 27th, 2024

Where: Ala Moana Beach, Honolulu, USA

What is the festival all about?

The Lantern Floating Ceremony in Hawai‘i is a captivating and spiritually significant event organized by the Shinnyo-en Buddhist organization. The ceremony draws thousands of participants and spectators to honor loved ones who have passed away and promote peace and harmony.

The centerpiece of the event involves the symbolic floating of thousands of lanterns, each bearing personal messages and prayers, onto the gentle waters of the Pacific Ocean. Against the backdrop of a stunning Hawaiian sunset, the lanterns create a mesmerizing sea of light, symbolizing the interconnectedness of all living beings. 

Families and individuals come together in a spirit of unity to share in the collective remembrance of those who have departed. Cultural performances, musical presentations, and the soothing sounds of traditional Hawaiian chants contribute to the serene and reflective atmosphere, making the Lantern Floating a deeply moving and spiritually uplifting experience for participants of all backgrounds.

Why is it good for kids?

The ceremony’s focus on remembrance and spirituality provides an opportunity for parents to engage in conversations with children about the importance of honoring and cherishing the memories of loved ones. The act of preparing and releasing lanterns into the water can be a reflective and emotional experience for families.

The serene atmosphere, illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns, creates a calm and peaceful setting favorable to contemplation. Additionally, the ceremony promotes a sense of community and togetherness as families join others in sharing their personal messages and prayers. The cultural performances and traditional Hawaiian chants add an educational element.

For more information and to participate, go to the lantern festival’s webpage. 

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Dragon Boat Festival

When: June 10, 2024

Where: Various Locations in China

Most famous Dragon Boat races are held in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou.

What is the festival all about?

The Dragon Boat Festival, known as Duanwu Jie in China, is a centuries-old tradition celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, typically falling in June. This vibrant festival commemorates the ancient poet Qu Yuan, who drowned himself in the Miluo River as a political protest. To prevent fish from devouring his body, locals paddled out on long, narrow boats, beating drums and splashing water.

Today, the Dragon Boat Festival is marked by these exhilarating races. Teams of rowers paddle to the beat of drums, guided by the iconic dragon-headed boats. Families partake in the festivities by enjoying traditional sticky rice dumplings called zongzi, believed to be thrown into the river to feed the fish and divert them from Qu Yuan. The festival also involves hanging medicinal herbs, wearing colorful silk threads, and displaying icons like pouches and herbs to ward off evil spirits. 

Why is it good for kids? 

The Dragon Boat Festival in China is a culturally enriching and family-friendly celebration. The colorful and energetic dragon boat races and the festive atmosphere, with drum beats and cheers, creates a lively environment that is engaging and entertaining. Additionally, watching the dragon boat races fosters a sense of community and teamwork. 

The festival’s connection to a historical and literary figure, Qu Yuan, provides an opportunity for parents to share stories and lessons from Chinese history with their children. The Dragon Boat Festival also includes crafting and culinary activities, such as making zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), allowing children to actively participate in cultural traditions and learn new skills. 

Read more about this ancient festival here. 

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Inti Raymi – The Inca Festival of the Sun

When: June 24, 2024 

Where: Cusco, Peru

What is the festival all about?

Inti Raymi, the Inca Festival of the Sun, is a mesmerizing and ancient celebration in Peru that pays homage to the sun god Inti, a central deity in Inca cosmology. Held annually on the winter solstice, Inti Raymi was a significant religious ceremony during the Inca Empire and continues to be a vibrant cultural event today. The festival unfolds at the historic Sacsayhuamán archaeological site overlooking Cusco, where elaborately costumed performers reenact traditional Inca rituals and ceremonies. 

The central figure, portraying the Inca king, delivers offerings to the sun. There are colorful processions, music, and dance performances. With its deep connection to Inca heritage and the spiritual significance of the sun, Inti Raymi is not only a captivating presentation but also a profound cultural experience that transports participants and spectators alike back in time to the ancient heart of Peru’s rich history.

Why is it good for kids?

The festival provides a unique opportunity for kids to witness and participate in living history. The colorful costumes, music, and dance performances offer a visually appealing and engaging scene. Plus, Inti Raymi’s connection to nature, particularly the worship of the sun god Inti, allows parents to introduce concepts related to astronomy, seasons, and cultural traditions in an accessible and interactive manner. 

The festival’s location at the historic Sacsayhuamán site offers a chance to explore archaeological wonders and gain a tangible connection to Peru’s rich past. The vibrant atmosphere and community spirit also contribute to a positive and inclusive environment.

Peru Rail has a good article detailing more information if you wish to go to the festival. 

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Dia de los Muertos – Day of the Dead

When: November 2, 2024

Where: Various locations in Mexico

Oaxaca City: Oaxaca is renowned for its elaborate Dia de los Muertos festivities. 

Pátzcuaro, Michoacán: Pátzcuaro is considered one of the most authentic places to experience Dia de los Muertos. 

What is the festival all about?

Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a vibrant and deeply meaningful Mexican festival that takes place annually from October 31st to November 2nd. Contrary to its name, the celebration is a joyful and colorful tribute to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away.

Families create elaborate ofrendas, or altars, adorned with marigolds, candles, photographs, and the favorite foods and possessions of the departed. Graveyards come alive with families gathering to clean and decorate the tombstones, creating a festive atmosphere. Sugar skulls, intricately crafted papel picado (paper cutouts), and traditional Catrina costumes add to the visual spectacle.

The happy celebration includes lively parades, music, dance, and feasts reflecting a belief that the spirits of the deceased return to enjoy the offerings made in their honor. Dia de los Muertos is a beautiful blend of indigenous beliefs and Catholicism, emphasizing the continuity of life and the importance of remembering and celebrating the legacies of those who came before.

Why is it good for kids?

Dia de los Muertos is a culturally rich and inclusive festival. First, it provides an opportunity for kids to learn about and appreciate Mexican traditions and cultural practices. The vibrant and artistic elements of the celebration, such as decorating sugar skulls and creating colorful ofrendas, encourage creativity and self-expression. On top of that, the festival’s focus on honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed away can facilitate conversations about life, death, and the importance of family bonds. The festive and communal atmosphere promotes a sense of togetherness, as families come together to participate in activities, share stories, and enjoy traditional foods. 

Dayofthedead.holiday has an excellent website that details the history and traditions.

Culturestraveled.com has a complete guide if you are interested in participating in the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca.

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Have you been to any of these family-friendly festivals? What was your experience? Please share with us in the comments!!!