An extraordinary energy fills the air during a place’s festivals. Research shows that festivals and cultural celebrations offer a unique lens into a community’s values, histories, and social fabric. Dr. Akhil Gupta, a cultural anthropologist, explains that festivals are “the expressions of a society’s collective memory,” allowing us to see what people celebrate and how they express their identity and communal values. Festivals engage all the senses—sights, sounds, tastes, and even smells—drawing us into the shared traditions of a place in ways that are impossible to replicate through other experiences.

Traveling for a festival lets you experience a culture in a lively, authentic setting, where local traditions come to life. By participating or observing, you gain a profound understanding of what makes that community unique, beyond the typical tourist attractions. These events can also foster connection and empathy by inviting us to share in celebrations of what matters most to others.

At Journeys International, we believe that exploring a culture’s festivals is a profound way to understand it. Here are some of our recommended destinations with vibrant festival trips that allow you to dive into the spirit of each destination.

India: Kullu Dussehra in the Himalayas

In the Himalayan town of Kullu, the Kullu Dussehra Festival is a unique celebration marking the beginning, rather than the end, of Dussehra festivities. During this week-long event, local deities from across the Kullu Valley are brought to town in elaborately decorated palanquins, accompanied by drums, traditional music, and dancing. The festival concludes with the burning of effigies, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, and is filled with cultural performances, local rituals, and a communal spirit that fills the entire town.

Journeys International Trip to Consider: Cultural Journey to Kullu Dussehra Rare Journey

  • Festival Immersion: Witness the grand procession of local deities through the streets of Kullu, an awe-inspiring display of devotion and community.
  • Local Engagement: Connect with community members eager to share the rich stories and significance behind each ritual and performance.
  • Cultural Performances: Experience traditional Himachali music, dance, and storytelling, bringing to life the region’s vibrant folklore.
  • Scenic Exploration: Discover the beauty of Kullu’s landscapes, historic temples, and bustling markets, offering a well-rounded glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Himalayas.

Papua New Guinea: Mount Hagen Cultural Show

The Mount Hagen Cultural Show is a vibrant gathering where over a hundred indigenous tribes from across Papua New Guinea converge to showcase their unique cultural identities. Adorned in elaborate traditional attire, with intricate body paint, feathers, shells, and beads, each group performs traditional songs, dances, and rituals that have been preserved for generations. This festival highlights the nation’s rich cultural diversity, offering a rare opportunity to witness the pride and unity of its people.

Journeys International Trip to Consider: Mount Hagen Show Tour Panorama

  • Exclusive Access: Gain privileged entry to the festival grounds, allowing for an up-close experience of the performances and ceremonies.
  • Cultural Immersion: Engage with dancers, artisans, and tribal leaders who share the meanings and stories behind their traditions.
  • Guided Exploration: Benefit from the insights of expert local guides who provide context and background to enhance your understanding.
  • Scenic Adventures: Explore the stunning landscapes of Papua New Guinea’s highlands, known for their breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity.

Papua New Guinea: Tumbuna Festival

The Tumbuna Festival offers a more intimate glimpse into ancestral traditions, focusing on honoring the local tribes’ customs, songs, and dances passed down through generations. Held in remote regions, the festival highlights traditional lifestyles that remain integral to these communities, making it an ideal experience for travelers seeking cross-cultural connections.

Journeys International Trip to Consider: Tumbuna Festival

  • Authentic Experience: Participate in a festival that’s less frequented by tourists, providing a genuine interaction with the local culture.
  • Cultural Engagement: Witness traditional sing-sing performances, where tribes express their heritage through music and dance.
  • Community Interaction: Visit local villages, meet community members, and learn about their daily lives and ancestral customs.
  • Scenic Exploration: Journey through picturesque landscapes, including the Sepik River and Tari Highlands, alongside a knowledgeable local guide.

Note: Journeys has a number of other Papua New Guinea festival itineraries that may speak to you as well.

Bhutan: Fall Festivals (Tshechus)

Bhutan’s Tshechus are annual religious festivals held in various districts, celebrating the teachings of Guru Rinpoche, the guru who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. Tshechus feature sacred mask dances, known as Cham, performed by monks and laypeople in elaborate costumes. Each dance tells a story rooted in Buddhist teachings, emphasizing morality and the triumph of compassion over negativity. Attending a Tshechu is considered a blessing, and locals gather in traditional attire, strengthening community bonds.

Journeys International Trip to Consider: Fall Festivals of Bhutan

  • Cultural Immersion: Attend the Thimphu Tshechu, one of Bhutan’s most renowned festivals, witnessing sacred mask dances and traditional music.
  • Historical Exploration: Visit ancient monasteries and fortresses, gaining insights into Bhutan’s rich history and spiritual heritage.
  • Scenic Journeys: Travel through Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes, from lush valleys to majestic mountain passes, with opportunities for guided hikes.
  • Local Engagement: Interact with Bhutanese locals, learning about their customs, daily lives, and the significance of the festivals in their culture.

Guatemala: Semana Santa in Antigua (Journey Coming Soon!)

During Semana Santa, the historic town of Antigua, Guatemala, transforms into a colorful display of faith and artistry. Streets are adorned with intricate alfombras—vibrant carpets made from colored sawdust, flowers, and plants—that locals create as offerings for the religious processions reenacting the Passion of Christ. With the scent of incense and solemn music filling the air, this celebration is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring Holy Week events.

Journeys International Trip to Consider: Semana Santa in Guatemala

    • Artistic Participation: Engage in workshops to create your own alfombra, guided by local artisans, and gain a deeper appreciation of this unique art form.
    • Procession Experience: Observe and, where possible, participate in the processions, understanding their significance and the devotion of the participants.
    • Culinary Exploration: Savor traditional Guatemalan cuisine, with opportunities to sample local delicacies associated with the Holy Week celebrations.
    • Cultural Insights: Explore Antigua’s colonial architecture, visit local markets, and learn about the city’s history and its role in Guatemala’s cultural heritage.

Visiting a country during a festival is an experience of a lifetime. Our festival journeys are curated, immersive experiences that invite you to connect deeply with each destination’s people, traditions, and celebrations. If one of these festival trips resonates with you, reach out to us, and let’s plan an unforgettable adventure together.

Connect with an Adventure Specialist through our Contact Us page or by calling us at 800-255-8735.