25 unique summer festivals worldwide

For the entire month of July, Kyoto turns into a giant party around the Yasaka Shrine. Mid-month is the big parade, but even if you visit outside of that time frame, you’ll still enjoy lanterns everywhere and fun decor throughout the city.

Europe’s answer to Coachella! If you want to combine a Euro trip with a days-long EDM party, this outdoor festival in Boom, Belgium. Catch your favorite DJs and then hop on a train to Brussels for waffles or Bruges for beer and history.

One of the most infamous on this list, Burning Man, isn’t for the faint of heart. The week-long “cultural movement” (per the official website) is part camping trip, part art show, part commune, and comes with 10 Principles for attendees. If Nevada in summer and being cut off from the world with a bunch of strangers is your vibe, it’s a good time!

The iconic British music festival takes place every June in Somerset. This is the UK, so even though summer may be in full swing elsewhere in the world, take that expectation out of seeing your favorite British acts. It’s been famously muddy some years, but as long as you plan, it’s a fantastic experience.

This celebration takes place in honor of the poet Qu Yuan and typically falls between May and late June, depending on the year. Grab traditional Chinese snacks such as bamboo-wrapped rice or zongzi (sweet or savory dumplings) and watch dragon boat races around the country. 

The whole month of August is a fantastic time to visit Edinburgh, and not just because of the rare nice weather. It’s also Fringe Fest! The entire city partakes and venues include traditional theaters as well as bars, restaurants, and parks. Performances range from musical acts and dance troupes to stand-up comedians and more!

June might be the start of winter in the southern hemisphere, but that doesn’t stop Peru from celebrating its rich Incan heritage roots. Inti Raymi is a nine-day (southern hemisphere) winter solstice celebration that involves parades, dance parties, and live music.

From late June to early July, catch the year’s hottest artists at Roskilde. The festival is located near its titular town and is one of the largest music events in northern Europe.

Niigata might be best known as a top ski resort, but come late June, it hosts an amazing rock music festival. It’s actually the biggest one in Japan and takes place at the Naeba Ski Resort.

The title is a bit of a misnomer, as Midsummer is a summer solstice celebration that kicks off the season. However, there’s no better time to visit Sweden. Bonfires, barbeques, and fresh flowers are all part of the offerings.

Contrary to popular belief, this one isn’t just for those with nerdy interests. Comic-Con is a place to sit in on numerous panels with actors, producers, and other Hollywood insiders. It also doesn’t hurt that the convention takes place in beautiful San Diego.

The Caribbean island is mostly associated with lovely beaches, but there is at least another reason to visit. Every August, the North Sea Jazz Festival brings artists (not just jazz) to the sunny shores of Curacao.

Summer is Montreal’s official festival season, and visitors can enjoy a whole bunch from June to August. One of the most popular is the International Jazz Festival, which brings thousands of artists from various genres to La Belle Province.

Indonesia’s largest music event is held in the capital, Jakarta. Visitors normally skip the city in favor of Indonesian beaches, so it's a great time to check it out!

The last Wednesday of August isn’t the time to visit Spain if you’re not a fan of tomatoes. That’s because this giant celebration is the world’s biggest food fight in Bunol. The week preceding it is full of parties and events, so if you’re a tomato fan, consider planning a trip.

Sziget isn’t just a giant music event in Budapest; it also includes art pop-ups, workshops, and draws a huge crowd from around the world. Perfect for groups with diverse interests.

You don’t need to take a transatlantic flight to see beautiful flowers. Canada’s capital hosts a world-renowned tulip festival that’ll delight floral enthusiasts!

Exit Festival is a music festival that welcomes artists from diverse genres. Located in beautiful Novi Sad, come for the music and stay for the city’s charm!

Jamaica is home to reggae and Bob Marley, so it's no surprise that the island hosts an amazing festival every year. The big party is hosted in Montego Bay and goes all night.

Notting Hill isn’t just home to Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, it’s also where London’s best summer festival takes place. The posh neighborhood transforms into a Caribbean-style carnival party each August, complete with epic crowds and music.

August is winter here, which means friendlier temps for practicing the national dance, tango! The best dancers from around the globe put on performances, but you can also dance or just sit and enjoy the music. 

Manitoba and the prairie provinces are generally overlooked by visitors in favor of Alberta’s Rockies, Quebec’s unique culture, and either coast. However, each July, Winnipeg hosts a great Folk Festival with fun artists, crafts, and art installations.

Considered one of Asia’s top EDM festivals, this is one to prioritize if you love to dance. Mid-June is just before South Korea becomes too hot and humid to fully enjoy, so it’s a great time to visit.

June and July are cooler in the southern hemisphere, but that makes it a great time to check out cultural offerings instead of the beach or mountains. South Africa’s National Arts Festival is held in Grahamstown each year, featuring displays both indoors and outdoors in parks.

The majority of visitors don’t get to Wyoming and even then, it’s for Yellowstone before moving on to the next site. However, if you visit in July, don’t miss Cheyenne and the large rodeo and Frontier Day celebrations.