Festivals are a fantastic tribute to culture, customs, and local enthusiasm. They offer an amazing chance for folks to dive into different cultures from all around the world! Even though there are lots of festivals, only some stand out as ideal for families. Let’s explore 12 family-friendly fests that guarantee fun entertainment and plenty of educational experiences.

1. Day of the Dead, Mexico

Day of the Dead in Mexico is a colorful festival that kicks off on October 31st at midnight every year. It basically involves celebrating the deceased with traditions that date back to the pre-Hispanic era. You can indulge in multiple fun activities here, like preparing altars and decorating Mexican Marigolds.

2. WOMAD, Australia

WOMAD, the World of Music, Arts, and Dance, is an Australian festival that attracts families who want to spend a happening weekend. From international musicians gracing the stage to various culinary delights on display, there is a lot to explore. The festival’s highlight, Taste The World, allows artists to showcase their homeland’s cuisine and culture.

3. Queenstown Winter Festival, New Zealand

The Queenstown Winter Festival, New Zealand’s premier winter event, offers a mix of unique and wacky activities perfect for families. Held in mid-June, it marks the start of the winter ski season. The festival features a variety of events like the birdman competition, suitcase races on the mountain, and dog races in the snow.

4. St Patrick’s Day Festival, Ireland

Dublin’s St Patrick’s Day Festival, spanning five days in March, is a grand celebration of Ireland’s patron saint. One of the major highlights of this festival is the parade through Dublin’s City Centre, which features several bands, performers, and artists from around the globe. Besides that, you can indulge yourself in fun activities like art exhibitions, science shows, workshops, live music, and food stalls.

5. Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival, China

The Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival, held annually in China, is the world’s largest festival of its kind. It showcases stunning sculptures made from ice and snow harvested from the Songhua River. These include life-sized structures like bridges, castles, and even functional restaurants. Each year, the festival adopts a different theme, featuring elements like the Beijing Olympics or Chinese tourist sites.

6. Deer Shed Festival, Yorkshire, U.K.

The Deer Shed Festival in Yorkshire, U.K., is a family-oriented music festival with a plethora of child-friendly activities. Spanning three days in late July, it’s set in the scenic Baldersby Park near Topcliffe. The festival places a strong emphasis on catering to children, offering live science shows, workshops in code breaking and forensics, and various sports like wrestling and canoeing.

7. Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival, Japan

The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival in Tokyo celebrates the iconic sakura or cherry blossoms. Held in Ueno Park, this festival occurs during the two-week blooming period, typically from late March to early April. It’s a perfect opportunity for families to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of cherry blossoms in a festive atmosphere.

8. Holi, India

Holi, India’s Festival of Colors, is an exuberant celebration occurring every March. This vibrant event is marked by the throwing of colored powder (gulal) and the spraying of dyed water. Streets come alive as everyone, children and adults alike, partake in this playful tradition. All in all, if you’re looking to indulge in a traditional yet fun festival, Holi is a must-attend for you.

9. Provins Medieval Festival, France

The Provins Medieval Festival in France is a weekend event held each June, transporting visitors back to medieval times. Set in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Provins, the festival features period costumes, music, markets, and activities. This festival offers families a unique educational experience, allowing them to step into history and explore medieval culture firsthand.

10. Just So Festival, U.K.

The Just So Festival in the U.K. is an enchanting family event that offers a magical escape from everyday life. Upon entering, visitors feel as if they’ve been sprinkled with fairy dust, transported to a world brimming with wonder and imagination. This festival is perfect for those looking to engage in creative play and storytelling in a beautifully natural setting.

11. Easter Parade in New Orleans, U.S.A.

The Easter Parade in New Orleans is a family-friendly event echoing the excitement of Mardi Gras. Starting at Antoine’s Restaurant, the parade includes a stop at St. Louis Cathedral and a promenade in Jackson Square. Kids will be delighted by the elaborate costumes, fancy hats, and talented marching bands.

12. Quebec Winter Carnival, Canada

The Quebec Winter Carnival, held every February, is a grand celebration in one of Canada’s historic cities. The festival features a wide array of winter activities, including tubing, sleigh rides, snow bowling, and ice fishing. A highlight for kids is meeting Bonhomme, the festival’s mascot, in his ice palace. Families can also enjoy night-time skating under the stars.

The International Balloon Fiesta

This annual festival in Albuquerque, New Mexico is a visual spectacle with hundreds of hot air balloons taking to the skies.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is an annual hot air balloon festival that takes place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. It is typically held during the first week of October and has grown to become one of the largest and most renowned balloon festivals in the world. The event was first held in 1972 and has since become an iconic celebration attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year from all over the globe.

The Canadian Tulip Festival

The Tuplip Festival in Ottawa Canada is sure to help you enjoy spring a little bit more. The festival takes place in May each year and has hundreds of colors and types of tulips.

The largest tulip festival in the world, it offers picturesque views of over a million tulips in bloom, as well as art installations, fireworks, and family entertainment.