The UK boasts top festivals: Glastonbury (Somerset), the world's largest arts fest, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and Notting Hill Carnival in London.
Mexico dazzles with Day of the Dead, a vibrant tribute to the deceased. Cinco de Mayo celebrates heritage, while the Guelaguetza Festival showcases Oaxacan culture.
The U.S., a cultural melting pot, hosts diverse festivals. Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Burning Man in the Black Rock Desert, and Coachella in California are among the most popular.
Germany hosts Oktoberfest in Munich (September) with beer, food, and Bavarian music. Other favorites are Karneval, a pre-Lent carnival, and Weihnachtsmärkte, Christmas markets nationwide.
Thailand loves to party with Songkran, a nationwide water fight for the Thai New Year; Loy Krathong, a November festival of lights, and the Full Moon Festival celebrated monthly.
Japan hosts serene festivals like the Cherry Blossom Festival for blooming cherry trees, the elaborate Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, and the star-gazing Tanabata Festival in July.
China hosts traditional festivals like Chinese New Year, Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival, marked by parades, vibrant decor, and traditional fare.
Brazil dazzles with Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, a pre-Lenten bash with parades and samba. Other standouts include Festa Junina, a harvest celebration, and Paraty, a lively music festival in a colonial town.
India's diverse festivals include Diwali, celebrating good over evil; Holi, a joyous Festival of Colors in spring, and Durga Puja, honoring the goddess Durga and much more.