Best Festivals in the US You Must Experience in 2025
The United States is known for hosting some of the world’s biggest and most exciting festivals. From cultural celebrations to music festivals, food festivals, and historical parades, there’s an event for everyone. Whether you are a traveler visiting the US for the first time or a local looking for new experiences, attending these festivals should be on your bucket list.
In this guide, we will explore the top festivals in the US for 2025, covering their dates, locations, highlights, and must-see attractions.
🎭 1. Mardi Gras – New Orleans, Louisiana
📅 When: February 25, 2025
📍 Where: New Orleans, Louisiana
Mardi Gras is one of the most vibrant and well-known festivals in the US. Taking place in the heart of New Orleans, this event is famous for its elaborate parades, colorful costumes, and street parties. Locals and tourists come together to celebrate with music, dancing, and festive floats.
What to Expect:
✅ Spectacular Krewe Parades – Watch beautifully decorated floats and catch beads, coins, and trinkets.
✅ Live Jazz and Street Performances – Experience the authentic sounds of New Orleans.
✅ French Quarter Street Party – Join thousands of revelers for an unforgettable night of celebration.
✅ Traditional Mardi Gras Food – Try Louisiana delicacies like jambalaya, gumbo, and beignets.
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🎶 2. Coachella – Indio, California
📅 When: April 11-20, 2025
📍 Where: Indio, California
Coachella is America’s biggest music and arts festival, attracting thousands of music lovers from around the world. This two-weekend event features headline performances from global artists, immersive art installations, and a diverse festival experience.
What to Expect:
✅ Top Music Artists & Bands – Performances by international superstars across multiple stages.
✅ Unique Art Installations – Discover interactive art sculptures and digital art experiences.
✅ Luxury Camping & VIP Experiences – Stay in Coachella’s exclusive camping zones with premium amenities.
✅ Music & Fashion Trends – See bohemian and trendy outfits that set global fashion trends.
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🎈 3. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – New Mexico
📅 When: October 4-12, 2025
📍 Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world. The sight of hundreds of colorful balloons floating in the sky is a magical experience for all visitors.
What to Expect:
✅ Mass Ascension Event – Watch 500+ hot air balloons rise into the sky at dawn.
✅ Dawn Patrol & Night Glow – Experience the early morning liftoff and the stunning glowing balloons at night.
✅ Balloon Rides – Take a once-in-a-lifetime ride in a hot air balloon.
✅ Live Music, Food & Family Activities – Enjoy music concerts, food trucks, and children’s activities.
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🍺 4. Oktoberfest – Celebrations Across the US
📅 When: September 21 – October 6, 2025
📍 Where: Cincinnati, Denver, Chicago, and other cities
Oktoberfest is a world-famous German beer festival, but many US cities celebrate their own versions. It’s the perfect festival for those who love traditional German beer, food, and entertainment.
What to Expect:
✅ Authentic German Beer Gardens – Sample world-class Bavarian beers.
✅ Traditional Bavarian Food – Enjoy bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel, and strudel.
✅ Live Oompah Bands & Folk Music – Dance to traditional German tunes.
✅ Oktoberfest Contests – Participate in fun stein-holding competitions and costume contests.
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🦃 5. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – New York City, New York
📅 When: November 27, 2025
📍 Where: New York City, New York
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of the most famous holiday events in the US. Featuring massive balloons, Broadway performances, and celebrity appearances, it’s a must-watch event for families.
What to Expect:
✅ Giant Parade Balloons – See iconic characters floating through Manhattan.
✅ Marching Bands & Broadway Shows – Enjoy live performances and musical acts.
✅ New York Holiday Attractions – Visit Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Central Park.
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🎭 6. Burning Man – Black Rock Desert, Nevada
📅 When: August 25 – September 1, 2025
📍 Where: Black Rock Desert, Nevada
Burning Man is one of the most unique festivals in the world, transforming a Nevada desert into a temporary creative city.
What to Expect:
✅ Massive Art Installations – See large-scale, interactive artworks.
✅ Community & Self-Expression – Meet artists, musicians, and creative thinkers.
✅ Burning the “Man” Structure – Watch the festival climax with the burning of the wooden effigy.
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🎥 7. Sundance Film Festival – Park City, Utah
📅 When: January 23 – February 2, 2025
📍 Where: Park City, Utah
Sundance is the biggest independent film festival in the US, showcasing groundbreaking films and documentaries.
What to Expect:
✅ Film Screenings & Premieres – Watch award-winning indie films before they go mainstream.
✅ Meet Celebrities & Filmmakers – Attend Q&A sessions with industry professionals.
✅ Explore Park City’s Winter Attractions – Enjoy ski resorts and scenic mountain views.
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Final Thoughts
The US offers incredible festival experiences, whether you’re looking for music, food, culture, or adventure. No matter which festival you attend, you’re sure to have a memorable time!
