Festivals in February 2024 Around the World
There’s a plethora of February festivals around the globe waiting to be added to your bucket list. Who says the excitement has to end after Christmas? February offers a chance to keep the festive spirit alive with a diverse array of celebrations. Before the arrival of spring, indulge in more festivities wherever you may find yourself! Your February festival calendar is just as vibrant as the rest of the year, even if it means embarking on a journey across the world. My curated list of February celebrations worldwide is bound to captivate your interest.
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Best Festivals in February
Consider these fantastic festivals to attend in February!
1. Rio Carnival, Brazil
9th – 17th February 2024
Let’s kick off our list of February festivals with a bang!
Arguably the most renowned festival globally, the Carnival draws millions of people each day. The streets of Rio de Janeiro come alive for five sleepless days, featuring colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and extravagant parties that make it the ‘greatest show on Earth.’ Stemming from tradition, the flamboyant festival emerged as a way for everyone to indulge before the abstinence of Lent. As you can imagine, this results in a hedonistic celebration where anything goes – from feathered headpieces to vibrant Brazilian dances. Attend the Rio Carnival, and it will undoubtedly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
2. Chinese New Year, China
10th February 2024
Yes, Chinese New Year secures its spot on yet another list, this time among the best festivals in February worldwide. The precise dates are determined by the lunar calendar, falling as early as mid-January or as late as the end of February. Many families have their own rituals and traditional activities scheduled throughout the week. Still, even strolling through your city’s Chinatown offers an incredible experience during Chinese New Year! Personally, I’ve indulged in my fair share of dumplings, Chinese sweet cakes, and other festive delicacies, especially during my time in London.
If you find yourself receiving red packets, be sure to reciprocate with traditional Chinese greetings.
3. Tapati Rapa Nui, Chile
TBC for February 2024
Easter Island is renowned for its monolithic heads and the potential for profound magic, but for two weeks in early February, our focus shifts to a unique cultural festival. What Tapati Rapa Nui offers isn’t unlimited drinks or pulsating music, but rather an authentic experience of islander culture. Visitors are encouraged to participate, even in events hosted at the crater of an extinct volcano! Spearfishing, sliding down steep slopes on banana trunks, dance competitions, and more will fill your days with laughter. The highlight? When two families go head-to-head on the dance floor to determine the Queen of Tapati.
4. Carnival of Venice, Italy
3rd – 13th February 2024
Similar to Brazil’s Rio Carnival, Italy has its own version – the Carnival of Venice – which also takes place before Lent. While the Brazilians focus on indulging before a long fast, the Carnival of Venice revolves around discarding class differences and embracing unrestrained revelry.
How do they achieve this?
Well, by concealing their identities behind the most intricate masks you can imagine!
With twirling skirts, painted faces, jester hats, and elaborately adorned masks, you’ll find yourself caught up in a joyful pursuit across Venice’s numerous bridges. It’s akin to entering an alternate universe, offering your own Alice in Wonderland experience during this February festival. Recognized as one of the best February celebrations in Europe and among the top festivals globally.
5. Taj Mahotsav, India
18th – 27th of February (Annually)
Similar to many celebrations in India, this February festival extends over an impressive ten days!
In the diverse tapestry of India, the Taj Mahotsav provides an opportunity for people to witness the variations in culture, food, craft, dance, and music across the country. It stands out as one of the most significant festivals in February. Located in Agra, the festival floods the city with color, noise, and visitors. Showcasing furniture from Saharanpur, carpets from Bhadohi, pottery from Khurja, as well as other arts and cuisines from all corners of India, it’s the ultimate sampler plate.
6. Jaisalmer Desert Festival, India
22nd – 24th February 2024
Another not-to-be-missed Indian festival and international event in February is the Jaisalmer Desert Festival. Occurring annually, the festivities attract numerous tourists to Rajasthan, where it is held. One can envision an array of quirky contests and still be astonished by the creativity behind them. From camel racing to turban tying, and even a competition to rank the longest mustaches in attendance, visitors have the opportunity to both watch and participate in various engaging activities.
7. Bergen International Literary Festival, Norway
7th – 11th February 2024
Literature enthusiasts embraced a new literary festival in 2019: Norway’s Bergen International Literary Festival. Honoring both non-fiction and fiction, the festival welcomed writers from 25 countries in 2020. In addition to readings, author talks, and open mic sessions, there are also youth programs designed to encourage budding writers. While the festival is still in its early years, it undeniably contributes to our understanding of how literature has evolved over the decades.
8. Envision, Costa Rica
4th – 11th of March 2024
Costa Rica invites you to imagine a week filled with hippie goodness. After all, music has the power to heal the soul – and perhaps even heal the Earth. With a central theme of environmental awareness and holistic healing, the Envision Festival is all about enjoying yourself while making a positive impact.
While the heavy beats and eclectic music may evoke nightclub vibes, your day-to-day experience is wholesome and fulfilling! Picture yoga sessions, guided herb walks, drum circles, and collaborative art projects. Engage in martial arts, dance, and spoken workshops to connect with a like-minded community. Who said eco-friendly festivals can’t be enjoyable?
READ MORE: When is the best time to go to Costa Rica
9. Quebec Winter Carnival, Canada
2nd – 11th February 2024
Embrace the cold! Frolic through the snow!
The world’s largest winter carnival unfolds in the frosty city of Quebec, and this February festival fully embraces the winter spirit. In a city accustomed to harsh winters, the festivities and sense of community truly warm the heart, making it one of the premier winter festivals worldwide. The first order of business, of course, is bundling up! Don’t forget the scarf, gloves, hat, and winter boots. Be sure to capture some photos of the impressive ice and snow sculptures, as well as the vibrant parade cars. The music shows will keep you warm all night long. It stands as one of the most significant festivals in Canada.
10. Sauti za Busara, Zanzibar
9th – 11th February 2024
Adding to the list of February festivals with cultural significance, Sauti za Busara translates to ‘sounds of wisdom.’ These captivating sounds reverberate around Stone Town’s Old Fort, where traditional African music blends with modern genres, ensuring you dance your way between film screenings, comedy shows, and other captivating performances.
Make sure not to overlook the opening parade at Forodhani Gardens!
11. Charleston Wine + Food, USA
6th – 10th March 2024
South Carolina is celebrated for its hospitality, and Charleston, in particular, is renowned for its aficionados of delectable delights. Yes, this festival is all about food. Hundreds of chefs converge at the Culinary Village to provide tastings, samples, chef demonstrations, and a plethora of other delightful food-themed activities. Embark on a gastronomic journey through multi-course dinners or Signature Events, with oyster roasts serving as the pinnacle of your day. While the brunches and lunches sound absolutely fantastic, the cocktail workshops also pique my interest! It’s an excellent opportunity for learning, preparing you for future home parties where you can showcase unexpected culinary skills.
12. Adelaide Fringe, Australia
16th February -17th of March 2024
Leave behind the snow and winter chill for a beachside month in Australia’s favorite southern city, Adelaide. I would certainly appreciate a dose of the outdoors!
However, what makes the Adelaide Fringe truly exceptional isn’t just the weather – it’s also the world’s second-largest annual arts festival. Anyone brave enough to step on stage is welcome to perform. From cabaret to circus acts, to comedy and dance performances, you might discover the next trending talent!
And let’s not overlook other exciting happenings like the night markets, a literal ‘goose chase’ for treasure, and the ever-epic Parade of Light.
READ MORE: Top Things To Do in Australia
13. Saidaiji Eyo Hadaka Matsuri, Japan
17th February 2024
Nearly naked men may not align with your typical festival experience, but Okayama’s annual festival (in the winter, no less) is all about luck and happiness. Priests toss lucky objects for thousands of men to vie over, a ritual with a history dating back over 500 years. Dressed in simple loincloths and tabi socks, these brave individuals spend an hour or two running around the temple to ‘purify the body and soul’. Pay your respects to the patron goddess of mercy at the temple where this unique event unfolds. Interestingly, it serves as the initial stop on the Chugoku Pilgrimage, holding immense significance for worshippers.
14. Taiwan Lantern Festival
24th of February 2024
If your birthday wish hasn’t manifested, try your luck at the Taiwan Lantern Festival!
Drawing inspiration from the age-old Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival and Yanshui Fireworks Festival, this combined celebration spans the entire country. Remember the famous flying lantern scene in Disney’s Tangled? Well, you can witness the enchanting spectacle of lights in person. While lanterns were once used to signal safety, they now carry our deepest wishes and hopes into the sky. It’s genuinely an incredible sight.
15. Lemon Festival, France
17th of February – 3rd March 2024
Can you believe there’s a festival dedicated to lemons, of all fruits? It’s definitely one of the more unusual food festivals in the world! Nestled in the French Alps is a town renowned for its high-quality lemons: Menton. This creative community elevated the celebration of local produce to a whole new level in 1934, giving rise to a vibrant and popular festival. The color yellow dominates everything, from floats and displays to sculptures and other evening shows. And of course, don’t forget to bring home some of these renowned citrus fruits!
READ MORE:Festivals in March 2024 Around the World
What is the Grandest Festival in February?
While February hosts numerous festivals, the grandest is arguably the Brazilian Carnival. Taking place before Lent, this extravagant celebration features parades, music, dancing, and elaborate costumes. It stands not only as Brazil’s most famous festival but also as one of the world’s largest, drawing millions of tourists and participants annually.
Which Famous Holidays Illuminate February?
February is adorned with globally-recognized holidays, including Valentine’s Day, Chinese New Year (occasionally falling outside February based on the lunar calendar), and Mardi Gras. While not strictly a holiday, Mardi Gras is a significant event often observed in late February or early March.
Harmonies of February 2024: Music Festivals Galore
As the year gains momentum, February 2024 sees a plethora of music festivals. Sauti za Busara in Zanzibar spotlights African music, showcasing a diverse range of talents. San Francisco’s Noise Pop Festival celebrates indie music and underground culture. Additionally, Tapati Rapa Nui in Chile promises a unique musical experience. Specific dates may vary annually.
Unveiling the Best February Festivals
February is ablaze with exciting international festivals, and a few stand out as the best. The Brazilian Carnival steals the spotlight, captivating millions. The Venice Carnival, known for its intricate masks and costumes, adds a touch of elegance. Meanwhile, the Sapporo Snow Festival in Japan mesmerizes with breathtaking ice sculptures and light displays. For cinephiles, the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) in February is a must-attend, featuring a diverse array of global cinematic talents.
