Traveling is about more than just seeing new places; it’s also about experiencing the heartbeat of a culture. Festivals are one of the best ways to do that. Around the globe, communities celebrate their heritage, history, and traditions with colorful events that bring everyone together. The best part? They’re not just for adults or kids. Many festivals are designed to be fun for all ages, offering something for every family member.

From carnivals filled with awe-inspiring parades to harvest festivals that celebrate the bounty of nature, these events have a way of creating memories that last a lifetime. If you’ve been dreaming of exploring new traditions while having fun with your loved ones, here are some family-friendly festivals from around the world that should be on your radar.

1. The Rio Carnival - Brazil

Few festivals can match the energy and spectacle of Rio Carnival. Held in Brazil every year right before Lent, this festival is a dazzling explosion of color, music, and celebration. The streets of Rio de Janeiro come alive with samba dancers, over-the-top floats, and participants decked out in costumes bursting with feathers, beads, and sparkles.

While Rio Carnival might seem like a party reserved for adults, it’s actually highly family-friendly in many areas. The “Sambadrome,” where samba schools compete in elaborate parades, has designated seating sections for families, making it easy to enjoy the show together. Kids especially love the music, dancing, and the colorful costumes. Plus, smaller local street parties called "blocos" are perfect for families who want to experience the fun in a more low-key setting.

2. Songkran Festival - Thailand

Thailand’s Songkran Festival, celebrated in April to mark the Thai New Year, is a nationwide water fight. Yes, you read that right. Imagine entire cities closing down so people can splash, spray, and soak one another with water!

This festival has deep cultural roots as a time for washing away the past year’s sins and starting fresh. However, over time it’s evolved into an incredibly fun celebration that both children and adults adore. You’ll see buckets, water guns, and hoses everywhere, and you’ll definitely get wet!

Beyond the water fights, families can also enjoy traditional dances, parades, and visits to local temples where you can participate in rituals like pouring water over Buddha statues. Songkran is not just fun; it’s a symbol of joy, renewal, and community.

3. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta - USA

Every October, the skies above Albuquerque, New Mexico, become a canvas of colorful hot air balloons during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The event features over 500 balloons, each uniquely designed, floating gracefully against the backdrop of the New Mexican desert.

One of the highlights for families is the "Mass Ascension," which happens early in the morning, when dozens of balloons take flight together. For kids, watching balloons shaped like animals, castles, or even their favorite cartoon characters is pure magic. The fiesta also includes nighttime events where balloons glow from the inside, creating a truly breathtaking display.

Local food vendors, live music, and interactive exhibits add to the fun, making this festival an adventure the whole family will cherish.

4. Diwali - India

Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is one of India’s most important and widely celebrated holidays. Over five days, families across the country light oil lamps, burst fireworks, and decorate their homes with intricate rangoli patterns made of colored powder.

Diwali is a festival that emphasizes togetherness, which makes it a perfect family-friendly event. Kids will love helping with the decorations or enjoying the endless variety of sweets made specially for the occasion. The fireworks displays are awe-inspiring, while traditional dances and performances offer insights into India’s rich cultural heritage.

Even if you can’t make it to India, many cities around the world host Diwali celebrations where you can catch the spirit of the festival and enjoy family-friendly festivities.

5. Oktoberfest - Germany

When you think of Oktoberfest, beer comes to mind first—but this famous German festival has way more to offer than just steins of lager. Held annually in Munich, Oktoberfest is also a massive celebration of Bavarian culture, with traditional music, folk dances, and delicious food that make it enjoyable for all ages.

Families can visit during the day when the festival atmosphere is lively but less rowdy. Most festival grounds feature attractions like carnival rides, games, and parades. There’s even a “Family Day” tradition, where the rides and treats are discounted for kids and their families.

Between devouring soft pretzels, admiring colorful dirndls and lederhosen, and enjoying live brass bands, there’s a lot to love about Oktoberfest—even without the beer.

6. Carnevale di Venezia - Italy

The Venetian Carnival, or Carnevale di Venezia, is one of the world’s most elegant festivals. Held in Venice, Italy, in the weeks leading up to Lent, it’s famous for its beautifully crafted masks, elaborate costumes, and romantic ambiance.

What makes this carnival perfect for families is its sense of fantasy and wonder. Children will be mesmerized by the lively street performances, including jugglers, musicians, and dancers. Many locals in full costume roam the streets, creating an enchanting, fairytale-like experience for everyone involved.

Families can also participate by taking costume-making workshops, attending kid-friendly mask parades, or enjoying gondola rides on the city’s iconic canals. It’s a celebration of imagination, beauty, and pure fun.

7. The Cherry Blossom Festival - Japan

Spring in Japan is synonymous with the cherry blossom season, and the Cherry Blossom Festival, or “Hanami,” is one of the most picturesque annual events in the country. Families gather in parks, lay out picnic blankets, and enjoy the stunning view of blooming sakura trees.

Hanami is about appreciating beauty, togetherness, and the fleeting nature of time. For children, the festival offers activities like kite flying or trying various treats from food vendors, including sakura-flavored ice cream and traditional mochi.

Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka host large-scale events with performances, lantern-lit night views, and cultural exhibits. The peaceful and happy atmosphere makes it a festival that truly brings people of all generations together.

8. Calgary Stampede - Canada

If your family enjoys a bit of Wild West flair, the Calgary Stampede in Alberta, Canada, is the ultimate festival. Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” this 10-day event combines rodeo contests, concerts, and a full-blown carnival into one epic celebration.

Kids will love the cowboy hats and boots, of course, but the event is packed with family-friendly entertainment, including petting zoos, trick-riding shows, and even pancake breakfasts! There are also animal showcases, agricultural exhibits, and live music that appeal to all age groups.

Whether you’re riding carnival rides or cheering for a bull rider, the Calgary Stampede guarantees fun and a truly unique cultural experience.

9. Lantern Festival - Taiwan

The Lantern Festival, held in Taiwan at the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations, is a captivating and magical event for all ages. Thousands of lanterns are lit and released into the night sky, each carrying wishes and blessings for the year ahead.

Families can join the fun by decorating their own lanterns and releasing them into the air or admiring the large, artistic lantern displays shaped like animals, dragons, and mythical figures. The festival atmosphere is one of hope, joy, and unity, as people join together to light up the sky.

The main celebrations are held in cities like Pingxi, but smaller lantern events occur all over Taiwan, making it easy to find a quieter spot to enjoy the experience.