The best way to understand a culture is to immerse yourself in its boldest, most spectacular celebrations. For years, I’ve been fascinated by rare cultural festivals – those once-in-a-lifetime events that take over entire cities with color, rhythm, and soul. And while I’ve read countless stories, watched mesmerizing videos, and chatted with travelers who’ve danced in these parades or stood in the thick of these jubilant crowds, I’ve yet to experience some of these magical moments myself. But they’re on my travel bucket list, and I’m inching closer each year.
Here’s a rundown on some of the rare cultural festivals I’m dying to experience.
Brazil’s Carnival – Rio de Janeiro
Ah, Carnival. Just the word makes me want to shimmy. This is the granddaddy of all rare cultural festivals—an unmissable explosion of samba, sequins, and sweat. Held just before Lent, Rio’s Carnival is famed for its street parties, the dazzling parade at the Sambadrome, and samba schools that prepare all year for this electric event.
From everything I’ve heard, the energy is absolutely contagious. The city transforms into a living, breathing performance. Costumes bedazzle, drums hypnotize, and strangers become dance partners in the blink of an eye. I can’t wait to don a feathered headdress and lose myself in the crowd.
When: February or March (dates vary with Lent).
Other Things to Do: I’ll definitely make time to hike up to Christ the Redeemer for those jaw-dropping views, sip a caipirinha on Copacabana Beach, and ride the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain. A steaming bowl of feijoada will cap off the perfect Brazilian day.
Where to Stay: The legendary Copacabana Palace is a dream (especially for people-watching), but Selina Lapa is calling my name with its artsy, social vibe.
Running of the Bulls – Pamplona, Spain
Firstly, I should state that I’m 100% against this tradition, I’ve even gone as far as protesting bull fights at our local coliseum. It’s a cruel and barbaric form of entertainment. It is however an iconic event that millions partake in and a big part of Spanish culture, so I guess I have to mention it. The event is part of the San Fermín Festival in Pamplona, one of Spain’s most intense and adrenaline-charged rare cultural festivals. The tradition dates back centuries, with participants sprinting through narrow streets alongside (or just ahead of!) thundering bulls.
While I wont be joining the run myself, let’s be honest, I’m more about the tapas than the terror, and drawn to the energy, music, and passion that pours into the city during this week-long celebration. The parades, fireworks, traditional dances, and lively atmosphere are better reasons to visit.
When: July 6 to July 14
Other Things to Do: Between events, I’d love to sample local Navarra wines, explore the beautiful countryside, and spend time in the old town’s lively pintxo bars. The Pamplona Cathedral and Citadel also deserve a spot on the itinerary.
Where to Stay: Hotel Tres Reyes looks like the perfect mix of comfort and location, but I’m also tempted by the quirky, traveler-friendly atmosphere at Aloha Hostel Pamplona.
Venice Carnival – Venice, Italy
Venice Carnival is what romantic daydreams are made of. Picture candlelit canals, masked balls in opulent palazzos, and every corner of the city steeped in theatrical elegance. It’s a celebration that transports visitors to another era, and I can’t wait to step into a velvet suit and waltz through St. Mark’s Square.
The costumes are the main event here, think powdered wigs, gilded masks, and rich brocades. But there’s also the Festa delle Marie, the Flight of the Angel, and smaller events where you can witness Italian pageantry up close. We have been to Venice twice and the one thing I noticed was the cost of the masks. I asked a shop owner of a traditional mask making shop “Why the huge price difference”? He said that a hand made bespoke mask, taking months to complete, where the recipient would wear it for a lifetime, is more expensive than the cheap sh1t (tourist souvenirs) imported from China. Now you’ve heard it straight from the horse’s mouth!
When: Late January to early February
Other Things to Do: I’d take in the grandeur of Doge’s Palace, stroll across the Bridge of Sighs, and maybe sip a negroni at the iconic Harry’s Bar, and visit the famous Murano island to view some magnificent glass master pieces..
Where to Stay: Ca’ Sagredo Hotel, a true Venetian gem right on the Grand Canal, is high on my list. For a more budget-friendly (but still stylish) option.
Mardi Gras – New Orleans, USA
Beads, jazz, king cake, and costumes—what’s not to love about Mardi Gras?
This New Orleans tradition has long fascinated me. With its blend of French, African, and Spanish influences, Mardi Gras is a rare cultural festival that brings out the city’s heartbeat.
I dream of standing on Bourbon Street during a parade, catching (or throwing) colorful beads (apparently to receive a string of beads you have to flash your bits..LOL) and doubloons, dancing to brass bands, and marveling at the stunning floats. But there’s more than just the party—there’s deep cultural history, family-friendly celebrations, and a whole lot of soul.
When: Varies by year, culminating on Fat Tuesday (February or March)
Other Things to Do: I’d tour the French Quarter, take a steamboat ride on the Mississippi River, sample gumbo and beignets, and enjoy live jazz on Frenchmen Street.
Where to Stay: The Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter is iconic, and I’d also consider The Eliza Jane for its boutique vibe and proximity to parade routes.
Day of the Dead – Oaxaca, Mexico
Día de los Muertos is one of those rare cultural festivals that blends beauty and soul. It’s not about mourning—it’s about celebrating the lives of loved ones who have passed. Oaxaca is often called the heart of this tradition, and I’m drawn to its vibrant parades, candlelit altars, and the deep sense of family and heritage.
I’m especially excited to see the ofrendas: home altars decorated with marigolds, sugar skulls, candles, and photos. I want to walk through the city’s cemeteries at night, lit by thousands of candles, and feel the connection between generations.
If you want to learn more about this tradition, do yourself a favor and watch the Disney cartoon “Coco”. Its a heart warming film the entire family will love….and you get to learn about this amazing tradition to honor those who have passed.
When: October 31 to November 2
Other Things to Do: Exploring the Zapotec ruins at Monte Albán, sipping smoky mezcal, and learning how to make authentic mole in a local cooking class are all high on my Oaxaca to-do list.
Where to Stay: Quinta Real Oaxaca, housed in a former convent, is simply stunning. For something a little more social and quirky, Selina Oaxaca is a strong contender.
La Tomatina – Buñol, Spain
Now this is a Spanish festival that I would partake in! A giant tomato fight? Sign me up.
La Tomatina in Buñol, Spain, is one of the wackiest, messiest rare cultural festivals out there. I’ve watched countless videos of people drenched in red goo, slipping through tomato juice rivers, and grinning like it’s the best day of their life.
The chaos starts with the palo jabón—a greasy pole challenge where someone tries to grab a ham at the top (yes, really). Once that’s done, trucks roll in with thousands of tomatoes, and it’s an all-out food fight. I plan to bring goggles, old clothes, and a towel—or ten.
When: Last Wednesday of August
Other Things to Do: Valencia is just a short train ride away, and I’d love to spend a few days exploring the City of Arts and Sciences, lounging on the beach, and feasting on traditional paella.
Where to Stay: Buñol is tiny, so I’ll base myself in Valencia. The Caro Hotel looks dreamy, while The River Hostel is a fun, friendly base.
Still on the Bucket List: More Rare Cultural Festivals
I couldn’t write about rare cultural festivals without mentioning a few others I’m dying to attend:
Holi – India: March. The festival of colors, unity, and spring. I want to throw bright powders in the streets of Vrindavan or Jaipur while celebrating love and rebirth.
Up Helly Aa – Lerwick, Scotland: January. A fire festival rooted in Viking heritage. I’d love to watch torch-wielding squads in furs march through the night, ending with the dramatic burning of a longship.
Inti Raymi – Cusco, Peru: June 24. An Incan sun celebration full of ancient rituals, dances, and golden costumes in the Andes. History and pageantry? Count me in.
Naadam – Mongolia: July. Wrestling, archery, and horse racing across Mongolia’s vast steppes? Sounds like an epic cultural deep dive.
Thaipusam – Malaysia and Singapore: January/February. A Hindu festival of devotion and endurance that includes vibrant processions and rituals of self-sacrifice.
Planning the Ultimate Festival Adventure
If, like me, you dream of chasing rare cultural festivals across the globe, here are a few practical tips I’ve picked up during my research:
Book Early: Flights and hotels fill up months in advance.
Dress the Part: Costumes or local attire aren’t always optional—they’re part of the experience.
Learn the Lore: Read up on the history and significance of each event to truly appreciate it.
Pack Wisely: Waterproof bags, extra chargers, comfy shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are a must.
Be Respectful: Always ask before taking photos and observe local customs.
If you are planning a Cultural Festival Adventure then try our Travel Resources page for great deals on flights, car hire and accommodation.
Why Rare Cultural Festivals?
For me, rare cultural festivals are more than just spectacles, they’re windows into the heart of a community. They mix history with revelry, and tradition with transformation. Whether it’s samba in Rio, skeleton parades in Oaxaca, or tomato wars in Spain, these festivals are living expressions of joy, memory, and belonging.
And though I haven’t ticked any of these off my list just yet, every step toward them is part of the adventure. So here’s to dreaming, planning, and dancing our way through the world. One festival at a time.
The post Dancing Through the World: Rare Cultural Festivals appeared first on Two Guys Abroad.
