Most Famous Festivals in the World: A Complete List of International Celebrations

Festivals are the heartbeat of cultures around the world. They bring people together through shared traditions, joy, and celebration. Every festival has its own special story — one that reflects the values, history, and spirit of the people who celebrate it.

From the vibrant colors of Holi to the glowing lights of Diwali and the sincere prayers of Eid-ul-Fitr, festivals add joy, meaning, and color to our lives. For children especially, these celebrations are magical — filled with fun, family time, sweet treats, and beautiful traditions they remember forever.

In this collection, we explore some of the most famous festivals in the world, each with its own charm and cultural flavor. From the snowy cheer of Christmas in the West to the sacred night of Mahashivaratri in India, these festivals show how different communities celebrate love, faith, and togetherness.

The most famous festivals in the world aren’t just about rituals — they’re about music that makes you dance, food that warms your soul, and decorations that light up entire cities. They connect generations and create memories that last a lifetime.

Let’s take a joyful journey through some of the most famous festivals in the world — discovering the foods, songs, colors, and customs that make each one truly special. Whether you’re dancing during Carnival in Brazil or watching lanterns float during Vesak in Sri Lanka, these celebrations remind us all how beautiful and diverse the world really is.

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Diwali – The Festival of Lights

Where Is Diwali Celebrated?

Diwali, one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the world is observed in countries such as India Nepal Sri Lanka and many others. It’s a celebration that brings light and happiness to people everywhere! ✨

When Does Diwali Happen?

Diwali usually takes place in October or November. It’s the perfect time to light up your world with joy and sparkle!

Why Do People Celebrate Diwali?

Diwali commemorates the power of light conquering darkness and the triumph of good over evil. People celebrate it by welcoming happiness and prosperity into their homes. It’s like lighting up the sky and your heart! This is one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World because it’s filled with so much joy, and everyone loves to celebrate!

What Makes Diwali Super Fun for Kids?

For kids, Diwali is full of exciting things to do! You can light diyas (small lamps) ️, burst crackers , and play with sparklers that twinkle in the sky! ✨ It’s like a festival of fun and brightness!

What Do People Wear?

On Diwali, everyone wears bright, colorful clothes, often brand new and shiny! ✨ You’ll look just like a glowing star, ready to celebrate one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World!

Yummy Foods & Sweets to Enjoy

Get ready for all the delicious treats! You’ll find laddoos, barfis, and jalebis — all the sweetest snacks to munch on! It’s a sweet explosion of flavors everywhere!

Music, Dance, and Fun Stuff

During Diwali, families sing songs, dance , and enjoy fireworks together . It’s so much fun, and it feels like a giant party that lasts all night!

Colors & Decorations

Homes are decorated with sparkling lights, and rangoli (colorful patterns) brighten up doorways and floors! ✨ It’s like your whole home becomes a glowing rainbow, making this one of the most colorful and exciting celebrations ever!

Christmas – The Season of Giving

Where Is Christmas Celebrated?

Christmas is one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World, celebrated all over the globe, especially in places like Europe, North America, and Australia! It’s a time for joy and giving, no matter where you are!

When Does Christmas Happen?

Christmas happens on December 25th, every year! It’s a joyful occasion full of love, laughter, and happiness!

Why Do People Celebrate Christmas?

Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and the spirit of giving. It’s a time when people come together to show love, kindness, and share with others. It’s one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World because of the joy and happiness it spreads to everyone!

What Makes Christmas Super Fun for Kids?

For kids, Christmas is packed with exciting activities! You can decorate a Christmas tree, send letters to Santa, and unwrap gifts! What could be better than that?

What Do People Wear?

At Christmas, people love wearing cozy sweaters, Santa hats, and even reindeer antlers! It’s all about staying warm and having fun while looking festive and jolly!

Yummy Foods & Sweets to Enjoy

Christmas is a time for delicious treats like gingerbread cookies, candy canes, and hot cocoa to keep you warm! ☕ It’s like a holiday feast of sweet treats!

Music, Dance, and Fun Stuff

Christmas is filled with plenty of fun activities to enjoy! People sing Christmas carols , watch holiday movies , and listen to festive songs that fill the air with happiness!

Decorations

Homes are decorated with bright lights in red, green, gold, and silver! ✨ These colors make everything sparkle and shine, just like the joy Christmas brings. It’s easy to see why Christmas is one of the most famous festival in the world!

Holi – The Festival of Colors

Where Is Holi Celebrated?

Holi, one of the most famous festivals in the world, is celebrated in India, Nepal, and regions with large Indian communities. It’s a joyful celebration that bursts with vibrant colors and happiness! ✨

When Does Holi Happen?

Holi is celebrated every year in March! It signals the start of spring, filling the air with vibrant colors and joyful energy!

Why Do People Celebrate Holi?

It’s a festival that brings joy and vibrant colors to every corner of the world! ✨. It’s a time when people come together to enjoy each other’s company and share happiness. It’s among the Most Famous Festivals in the world known for its explosion of color happiness and excitement!

What Makes Holi Super Fun for Kids?

For kids, Holi is an explosion of fun! You get to throw colored powders at each other, dance to traditional beats, and sing happy songs! It’s like playing in a rainbow of colors, and everyone is laughing and having fun together!

What Do People Wear?

On Holi, people wear old clothes because they know things are going to get colorful! Be ready for a big mess of fun, but don’t worry, it’s all part of the magic!

Yummy Foods & Sweets to Enjoy

There are so many delicious treats during Holi! People enjoy gujiya, mathri, and drink thandai, a yummy drink that keeps you refreshed!

Music, Dance, and Fun Stuff

Holi is more than just colors; it’s a lively celebration of music and dance too! You’ll hear traditional songs, dance to lively beats, and even have epic water balloon fights — it’s all part of the celebration!

Colors & Decorations

Holi is all about colors! The streets, faces, and everything around you is filled with vibrant powders in every shade of the rainbow! It’s one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World because of the way it fills the world with brightness and cheer!

Visit our channel: Indian & International Festivals | Learn About Diwali, Holi & More

Eid-ul-Fitr – The Festival of Eid al-Fitr.

Where Is Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrated?

Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World, is celebrated all around the globe, especially in Muslim communities. ✨ It’s a joyful festival that celebrates gratitude and togetherness.

When Does Eid-ul-Fitr Happen?

Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated after the month of Ramadan, and its exact date changes every year based on the Islamic lunar calendar. But it’s always a time to celebrate the end of fasting!

Why Do People Celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr?

Eid marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month of fasting and reflection. It’s a time for gratitude, joy, and giving thanks for everything. It’s one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World because it’s filled with happiness, family, and fun!

What Makes Eid-ul-Fitr Fun for Kids?

For kids, Eid-ul-Fitr is super exciting! You get Eidi (gifts) , wear new clothes , and enjoy delicious meals with your family. It’s like a big celebration of happiness and love!

What Do People Wear?

On Eid, people dress in beautiful, often brand-new outfits, radiating with vibrant colors! ✨

Yummy Foods & Sweets to Enjoy

There’s so much yummy food at Eid! People eat sheer khurma, kebabs, and baklava — all sweet and savory treats to make your taste buds happy! And don’t forget the sweet treats!

Halloween – The Spooky Celebration

Where Is Halloween Celebrated?

Halloween is one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World, celebrated mainly in the USA, Canada, and parts of Europe. It’s a spooky and fun time that everyone enjoys!

Why Do People Celebrate Halloween?

People celebrate Halloween because it’s a time for costumes, tricks, and treats! It’s one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World because it’s all about having fun and being creative with your outfit, plus collecting lots of yummy candy!

What Makes Halloween Fun for Kids?

For kids, Halloween is the best! You get to dress up as your favorite characters , go trick-or-treating for candy, and have loads of fun with your friends. It’s a celebration filled with surprises and sweets!

What Do People Wear?

On Halloween, people wear costumes that can be spooky , funny ‍♀️, or even weird! Whether you’re a witch, a ghost, or a superhero, there’s no limit to your imagination!

Music, Dance, and Fun Stuff

Halloween is packed with spooky fun like haunted houses ️, telling spooky stories, and attending themed parties! It’s the perfect time for some tricks and a lot of treats!

Colors & Decorations

The best part of Halloween is the decorations! Homes are decorated with orange, black, and purple lights, plus tons of cobwebs ️. It creates a spooky atmosphere that makes Halloween one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World!

Ganesh Chaturthi – Welcoming the Elephant God

Where Is Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrated?

Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World, is celebrated mainly in India, especially in Maharashtra. It’s a festival full of joy, music, and celebration, all for Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god!

When Does Ganesh Chaturthi Happen?

Ganesh Chaturthi happens every year in August or September, depending on when the moon is right. It’s a festival that lasts for several days, with lots of fun and excitement!

Why Do People Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi?

Ganesh Chaturthi is a celebration to honor Lord Ganesha, who is revered as the remover of obstacles. He helps people find success and happiness, so it’s a very special time to celebrate and be grateful!

What Makes Ganesh Chaturthi Fun for Kids?

For kids, Ganesh Chaturthi is a blast! You can make and decorate Ganesha idols , sing bhajans (songs) , and enjoy delicious sweets like modaks! It’s a colorful and lively time filled with creativity and fun!

What Do People Wear?

On Ganesh Chaturthi, people wear traditional Indian attire, often in bright, happy colors. It’s a moment to get dressed up and celebrate the festive spirit with your special ones!

Yummy Foods & Sweets to Enjoy

People make and eat modaks (Ganesha’s favorite sweet), ladoos, and coconut treats. Delicious treats for everyone to enjoy during the celebration!

Music, Dance, and Fun Stuff

Ganesh Chaturthi is full of music and dancing! There are processions with drums , people dancing , and chanting prayers to Lord Ganesha. It’s a lively and exciting time for everyone!

Colors & Decorations

Homes and streets are beautifully decorated with flowers and lights ! Everywhere you go, you’ll see colorful displays, making Ganesh Chaturthi one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World!

Mahashivaratri – The Great Night of Lord Shiva ️

Where Is Mahashivaratri Celebrated?

Mahashivaratri, counted among the Most Famous Festivals in the World, is celebrated in both India and Nepal. It’s a special night dedicated to Lord Shiva, the powerful and wise god!

When Does Mahashivaratri Happen?

Mahashivaratri takes place every year in February or March, depending on the lunar calendar. It’s a nighttime celebration where devotees stay awake in devotion to Lord Shiva!

Why Do People Celebrate Mahashivaratri?

People celebrate Mahashivaratri to honor Lord Shiva and to seek his blessings for peace, happiness, and strength. It’s one of the Most Famous Festivals in the World because it’s all about deep prayers, good vibes, and spiritual fun!

What Do People Wear?

During Mahashivaratri, people usually wear simple and comfortable clothes, often in peaceful shades of white. It’s a time to stay calm and focused while celebrating with loved ones.

Yummy Foods & Sweets to Enjoy

As Mahashivaratri is a fasting festival, people typically eat fruits, nuts, and specially prepared fasting dishes. They’re light, healthy, and help people stay energized throughout the night!

Music, Dance, and Fun Stuff

On this special night, people chant mantras and listen to devotional songs. It’s a time of peaceful music and fun prayers that help everyone connect with Lord Shiva.

Krishna Janmashtami – The Arrival of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami, one of the most famous festivals in the world, celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, a deeply beloved deity in Hinduism. Every year, this joyful festival is celebrated with great devotion and fun, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.

Where Is It Celebrated?

Though it is an Indian festival, its charm has spread globally. The grandest celebrations happen in Mathura, Vrindavan, and Mumbai, making it one of the most famous festivals in the world for its vibrant rituals and deep spiritual meaning.

When Does It Take Place?

Krishna Janmashtami usually falls in August or September, on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month Bhadrapada.

Why Is Krishna Janmashtami Celebrated?

This festival honors the birth of Lord Krishna, who is believed to have brought love, wisdom, and joy to the world. It’s a time to remember his playful childhood stories and spiritual teachings.

What Makes It So Fun for Kids?

• Dressing Up: Kids love dressing as little Krishna or Radha, with flutes, crowns, and peacock feathers.

• Dahi Handi: An exhilarating event where teams create human pyramids to smash a hanging pot of curd.

• Crafts & Stories: Children enjoy doing Krishna-themed crafts and listening to fascinating stories of Krishna’s mischief and miracles.

Delicious Treats to Enjoy

No festival is complete without yummy food! Krishna Janmashtami features sweets like makhan mishri, peda, and kheer, all made with butter — Krishna’s favorite.

Decorations & Fun Activities

Homes and temples are beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and images of Krishna. In some places, kids play games like “Find the Butter”, a fun way to recreate Krishna’s love for butter.

️Hanukkah – The Festival of Lights

Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is one of the most famous festivals in the world for Jewish communities. It celebrates the reopening of the 2ndTemple in Jerusalem. This joyful festival is a time for family gatherings, special games, and lighting the menorah, symbolizing the miracle of the oil.

Where Is It Celebrated?

Hanukkah is celebrated in Jewish communities all over the world, making it one of the most famous festivals in the world for people of Jewish faith.

When Does It Happen?

Hanukkah typically occurs between late November and late December, with the dates changing each year according to the Hebrew calendar.

Why Do People Celebrate Hanukkah?

This festival celebrates the miracle where a small amount of oil lasted for eight days in the temple, even though there was only enough for one. This miracle is the reason why Hanukkah is considered one of the most famous festivals in the world among Jewish people.

Yummy Foods & Sweets to Enjoy

Latkes (crispy potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts) are traditional treats, and no celebration of Hanukkah would be complete without these delicious foods, making it one of the most famous festivals in the world for food lovers.

Music, Dance, and Fun Stuff

Traditional songs like “Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel” are sung, bringing joy to both kids and adults.

Fun Fact

The word “Hanukkah” comes from the Hebrew word for “dedication,” reflecting the festival’s celebration of the rededication of the Second Temple.

Gurpurab – Celebrating Guru Nanak’s Birth

Gurpurab is one of the most famous festivals in the world, celebrated by Sikhs across the globe. It honors the birth of Guru Nanak, the visionary who founded Sikhism. This day is celebrated with devotion, prayer, community service, and processions.

Where Is It Celebrated?

Gurpurab is celebrated primarily in India, especially in Punjab, but Sikh communities around the world honor it, making it one of the most famous festivals in the world for Sikhs globally.

When Does It Happen?

The date of Gurpurab changes every year, as it follows the lunar calendar.

Why Do People Celebrate Gurpurab?

Gurpurab is celebrated to honor Guru Nanak’s life and teachings, which spread spiritual wisdom and promoted unity across the world. This makes Gurpurab one of the most famous  festivals in the world among the Sikh community.

What Makes Gurpurab Fun for Kids?

• Kirtan: Kids enjoy listening to devotional hymns.

• Langar: Participating in the community kitchen, where everyone is served free meals.

Gurudwaras are decorated with lights and flowers, and this bright, joyful decoration is one reason why Gurpurab is considered one of the most famous festivals in the world.

Onam: The Harvest Festival of Kerala

Onam is a traditional festival celebrated in Kerala, India, and is naturally considered one of the most famous festivals in the world for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant celebrations. It marks the return of King Mahabali, who is believed to visit his people during this time. The festival is full of vibrant parades, delicious food, and cultural performances, making it a fun time for everyone, especially kids.

Where Is Onam Celebrated?

Onam is mainly celebrated in Kerala, yet Keralites across the globe also take part in its festivities. Its vibrant traditions have earned it a place among the most famous festivals in the world.

When Does Onam Happen?

Onam usually takes place in August or September and lasts for ten days, with Thiruvonam being the most important day.

Why Do People Celebrate Onam?

Onam celebrates the return of King Mahabali to bless his people and also marks the harvest season. Celebrating prosperity and rich traditions, this festival is regarded as one of the most famous festivals in the world for its deep cultural importance.

Yummy Foods & Sweets to Enjoy

Onam is famous for its feast, Onam Sadhya, which includes dishes like dal, sambar, payasam, and more — a real treat for food lovers, making it one of the most famous festivals in the world for food enthusiasts.

Music, Dance, and Fun Stuff

Traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Thiruvathira are performed during Onam, making the festival lively and vibrant.

Fun Fact

The spirit of King Mahabali is believed to visit his people during Onam, bringing blessings of prosperity and happiness.