9 Best Festivals in April Around the World in 2024

April marks the beginning of the bustling festival season in the Western world, offering a plethora of fantastic events to attend. Seize the opportunity to make the most of this vibrant time and immerse yourself in the diverse and exciting festivals that await!

Kickstart your summer of festivals with the enchanting April celebrations happening around the world! As this side of the globe gears up for Easter, the festive spirit goes beyond eggs and pancakes—it’s time for a multitude of captivating festivals!

The April festival calendar is truly a joy, signaling the onset of a season filled with exciting events. Things are taking a serious turn on the festival front, and if you’re eager to launch your festival year in style, make sure to secure your spot at one of these fantastic April festivals. Don’t forget to rally your friends for an unforgettable experience!

Festivals In April 2024 Around The World

Explore the finest April festivities to include in your festival calendar for the year ahead.

1. Beltane Fire Festival, Edinburgh

29th – 30th April 2024

Beltane, a Celtic festival once embraced by diverse cultures worldwide, unfolds in April with joyous celebrations. Central to Beltane’s April festivities are the bonfires, around which people partake in rituals, walking amidst the flames as a purification practice and expressing wishes for fertility in the burgeoning season. The radiant fires, contrasting against the darkness, serve as powerful symbols, representing the triumph of light over dark forces and carrying the optimistic hope for peace on earth.

The annual Beltane Fire Festival, hosted at Calton Hill just outside the city center of Edinburgh, attracts thousands of participants from across Europe each year. Beyond the mesmerizing fires, the celebration boasts a diverse array of entertainment, including live music, captivating dance performances, engaging storytelling events, and even an enchanting overnight campfire ceremony. It’s a splendid occasion for people to gather with friends and revel in the festivities at the Edinburgh Fire Festival.

Amidst the celebration, attendees can bask in the beauty of the day while enjoying music performances scattered throughout the park. Additionally, participants can engage in traditional Highland Games, involving activities such as tossing 3lb stones over their shoulders while running seven yards backward without turning around, jumping rope using alternate feet only, and attempting to throw hammers as far as possible. It’s a day filled with cultural richness, lively entertainment, and opportunities to partake in both traditional and contemporary festivities.

2. Kanamara Matsura, Japan 

7th April 2024

Kanamara Matsura, a seemingly ordinary small town, harbors a peculiar obsession among its population. The residents pay homage to Kanamata, a figure from legend who purportedly received special powers from her lover after sustaining severe injuries in battle. Despite her eventual demise due to these wounds, the mystical power she possessed lives on through the reverence of those who continue to honor her. Throughout the town, giant wooden penises are erected as tangible reminders of her enduring legacy, although some locals insist that these phallic symbols serve a more practical purpose, claiming they are simply there for good luck.

The inhabitants of Kanamara Matsura have embraced a peculiar tradition by erecting giant phallic symbols in various locations, ranging from outside shops to residential homes. This unique practice serves as a form of homage, encompassing both spiritual and physical dimensions. The renowned Kanamara Matsuri, a festival with centuries-old roots in Japan, holds a distinctive place among the significant April celebrations. Dedicated to the celebration of fertility, good fortune, and the phallus, symbolized by an object known as an ‘Ishibutai,’ the festival gathers people in joyous festivities.

This annual celebration unfolds at Yasukuni Jinja Shrine, drawing individuals from all corners of Japan who come together to commemorate and express gratitude for protection against sexually transmitted diseases. The Kanamara Matsuri undoubtedly stands out as one of the April celebrations I would most eagerly witness!

3. Coachella, USA 

12th – 14th and 19th – 21st April 2024

April’s festival scene wouldn’t be complete without a nod to Coachella, a renowned music festival hosted in California. This annual event gathers some of the world’s most popular musicians, creating a spectacular showcase of talent and attracting music enthusiasts from various corners of the globe. Coachella stands as a prominent fixture in the April festival calendar, showcasing diverse musical genres and providing an unparalleled experience for festival-goers.

For numerous individuals, Coachella becomes an annual pilgrimage, drawn by its illustrious history of hosting iconic artists such as Beyoncé, Radiohead, Kanye West, and Lady Gaga. Beyond the stellar musical lineup, the festival also captivates attendees with an array of art installations scattered throughout the grounds, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the overall experience. Coachella’s reputation as a cultural phenomenon is further solidified by the convergence of musical brilliance and captivating visual art, making it a must-attend event for enthusiasts seeking a unique and unforgettable festival adventure.

4. New Orleans Jazz Festival, USA 

26th April – 5th May 2024

The New Orleans Jazz Festival stands out as one of the foremost festivals in the United States. Hosted at the picturesque Riverfront Park, this significant event features an impressive lineup of over 1,000 performances each year, pandemic permitting. Since its inception in 1970, the New Orleans Jazz Festival has been a vibrant celebration, not only showcasing jazz music from across the globe but also highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of Louisiana.

Dive headfirst into this lively atmosphere, where your senses are treated to the distinct sights, sounds, tastes, and smells that define New Orleans. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of spicy Cajun NOLA food, wafting through every aisle. Dancers grace the stages, captivating crowds with their skills, while musicians contribute to the energetic ambiance, with people either dancing along or simply appreciating the performance. The atmosphere is electric, creating an immersive experience that fully engages the senses in the vibrant spirit of New Orleans.

5. Snowbombing, Austria 

8th – 13th April 2024

For an exhilarating and unforgettable winter experience, look no further than the Snowbombing Festival in Austria. Set against the stunning backdrop of Tyrol, this festival welcomes over 1000 international artists spanning diverse genres. Revel in live performances that traverse the spectrum from electro-swing to synthwave, with DJs spinning hip hop beats or techno mixes to your heart’s content. The Snowbombing Festival promises a musical journey that caters to varied tastes, ensuring a thrilling and diverse atmosphere in the snow-covered landscapes of Tyrol.

Prepare to bundle up in your winter attire for an exciting snow-filled adventure at the Snowbombing Festival in Austria. Boasting over two decades of experience, this winter festival not only offers a plethora of fun activities but also serves up a generous dose of fantastic music from headliners such as Fatboy Slim, The Prodigy, or Dusky, just to mention a few. If you’re seeking a more laid-back atmosphere, numerous bars provide a cozy setting with live DJs playing throughout the day. The Snowbombing Festival ensures a perfect blend of winter thrills and musical delights for all attendees.

READ MORE:Top Things To Do in Australia

6. Seville Feria, Spain 

14th – 20th April 2024

The Sevilla Feria stands out as one of the most renowned and historic festivals in Europe, gracing the city every year from April to May, with a grand celebration on Saturdays at La Plaza de España.

For centuries, the Sevilla Plaza has been the esteemed host of this event, earning its place among the world’s top 10 must-see events according to Forbes Magazine. The festival unfolds with people singing around gypsy fires known as braziers, as others dance along cobblestone streets in the company of horses adorned with royal crowns or wide-brimmed hats. The Sevilla Feria is a captivating celebration that seamlessly intertwines history, culture, and vibrant festivities.

The Seville Feria is a vibrant and colorful event that draws over a million people to the city during its three days of celebration. This festival offers a plethora of entertainment options, including concerts featuring international superstars like Justin Timberlake, Morrissey, and Stevie Wonder. Sporting competitions, such as bullfights where participants face bulls armed only with wooden sticks called banderillas, add to the excitement. Flamenco performances by some of Spain’s finest dancers, elegantly dressed in traditional costumes, grace the stage.

Originating from a military conquest by King Alfonso X’s troops, the Seville Feria was established as a grand celebration where soldiers showcased their spoils from battle. Today, the festivities bring people together from Friday evening until Monday morning for three days filled with events, including equestrian competitions and elaborate theatrical performances that unfold throughout the city streets and in more intimate theaters. The Seville Feria is a cultural extravaganza that seamlessly blends history, entertainment, and the spirit of celebration.

7. Koningsdag, Netherlands 

27th April 2024

Koningsdag, or ‘King’s Day,’ is a nationwide celebration in the Netherlands that marks the accession of King Willem-Alexander to the throne. On this special day, people from all walks of life, regardless of nationality or residence status, are warmly welcomed into Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague to partake in the festivities.

Koningsdag provides individuals residing abroad with a unique opportunity to experience Dutch culture firsthand. Attendees can immerse themselves in the festivities, sampling traditional local food delicacies like stroopwafels (translated as ‘syrup waffle’), renowned Dutch cheeses, and enjoying various musical performances on bands and stages. It’s a celebration that not only honors the Dutch monarchy but also offers a delightful taste of the country’s rich cultural offerings to visitors from around the world.

READ MORE: The Weekend Guide to Amsterdam

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8. Semana Santa, Spain 

24th – 31st March 2024

Another highly anticipated festival in April is Semana Santa, which, depending on the year, may extend into March.

Semana Santa, also known as Holy Week, is a week-long celebration that commemorates the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Commencing on Palm Sunday, the week leading up to Easter witnesses elaborate processions in cities, featuring large groups carrying banners depicting scenes from biblical passages as they march in parades.

The roots of Semana Santa can be traced back to ancient times when pagans conducted rituals around the Spring Equinox to celebrate the rebirth of their gods after the winter months. Over time, this tradition spread across Europe and eventually reached what is now modern-day Spain through the influence of Christianity in the 5th century CE. King Recceswinth’s decree mandated the observance of Semana Santa without exception, under the penalty of death, solidifying its significance in the cultural and religious fabric of Spain.

9. Songkran, Thailand

13th. -15th April 2024

Songkran stands out as one of Thailand’s most renowned and extensively celebrated festivals, signifying the Thai New Year. Traditionally observed from April 13 to 15, the festivities may extend for a week or more in certain regions.

Initially rooted in Buddhist traditions, Songkran has evolved into a prominent social and cultural event in April, drawing not only locals but also numerous tourists. International visitors often flock to vibrant destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket to actively participate in the lively festivities and experience the unique cultural atmosphere that Songkran brings to Thailand.

A quintessential element of the Songkran festival is the spirited water fights that spontaneously erupt on the streets. Revelers arm themselves with an array of water weapons, from guns and hoses to buckets, leaving no one immune from getting thoroughly soaked. These lively water battles symbolize the cleansing of sins and the dispelling of bad luck from the previous year, ushering in a fresh start for the upcoming year.

In a more traditional context, Songkran is also a time for devout observances. Many partake in temple visits, offering food to monks as a gesture of merit, and engaging in the respectful act of washing Buddha statues. This ritual is not only a sign of reverence but also an expression of good wishes for prosperity and fortune in the year ahead.

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Best Festivals in April

Embarking on an April festival adventure is an excellent way to kickstart your festival-filled summer. With a plethora of options available during this time, ranging from traditional and religious festivals to those centered around music or specific passions, there’s something for everyone. I suggest dedicating a few weeks to save up for your preferred festival, allowing you to indulge in a stylish festival blowout. Embrace the spirit of celebration, immerse yourself in the experience, and make lasting memories at your chosen festival destination.

April’s Rich Tapestry: A Spectrum of Cultural Events Around the World

April emerges as a vibrant month globally, teeming with diverse cultural activities. In the United States, Jazz Appreciation Month takes center stage to honor the rich heritage of this musical genre. Simultaneously, in Japan, the arrival of cherry blossoms sets the stage for ‘Hanami,’ an event that combines the appreciation of nature with social gatherings. Thailand embraces its New Year with Songkran, a lively water festival that transforms the streets into arenas for spirited water fights. Across the Netherlands, King’s Day becomes a national highlight, with people donning orange attire and engaging in festivities throughout the country.