Luxtripper Travel Editor
Discover some of the world's most exciting summer festivals commemorating ancient traditions and celebrating rich cultures.
Gion Matsuri, one of the most popular annual festivities in Japan, is celebrated over the entire month of July. The festival, which is held in Kyoto, has ancient roots and has evolved into a layered culmination of influences from various groups. It consists of two main parade processions as well as smaller events like lively block parties on Shijo-dori Street, viewing parade floats on the nights prior to the main event at the Yoi-yama festival, and dressing up in traditional attire while indulging in culinary treats.
The Feria de Flores Festival (Festival of the Flowers), Medellin's biggest annual event, is a joyful time in Colombia, drawing both domestic and foreign visitors to the 10-day festival that sees millions assemble to enjoy over 140 events inspired by the city's heritage. The event, which starts the first week of August, consists of a wide range of celebration-themed activities, such as the famous flower procession, vintage car parades, musical performances, and a variety of child-friendly activities.
Celebrated by China’s southwestern Yi, Naxi, and Bai communities, the Yi Torch Festival is one of the most significant events on the Yi calendar for these ethnic communities, with numerous locations within the Yunan Province hosting spectacular fire ceremonies and celebrations, with the main events in Chuxiong and the Stone Forest. Surrounding the main events, festival-goers can enjoy a host of other smaller events such as carnivals, folk singing and dancing, beauty pageants, cultural exhibitions and more.
The Hermanus Whale Watching Festival, the only eco-marine festival in South Africa, honours the southern right whales' yearly migration back to the region's coastal waters. Over the course of three days at the end of September, the festival transforms the sleepy seaside town into a vibrant hub as thousands of tourists pour in to take part in the celebrations, which include whale watching from the rocky shores, feasting on delectable seafood, and a variety of other incredible experiences.
India's streets are enlivened by night vigils, fragrant food carts serving sweet treats, and houses decorated with flowers, lights, and colourful drapes during this late summer festival in the third week of August, which celebrates the birth of Krishna. The festival is a mesmerising experience that draws people in with its festive culinary delights, dance theatre competitions, and traditional games and rituals.