Festive October: Explore the Top 20 festivals celebrated in October worldwide

October is a fabulous time of the year to celebrate around the world. Parts of the world will see the change from summer hues while tropical breezes and sunlight remain elsewhere, as countries celebrate this month of change in a variety of spectacular festivals. 

Beer flows freely at Oktoberfest in Munich, giant balloons hang above Albuquerque, Diwali fills India’s skies with millions of lights, and foodies party at the Paris wine harvest or ramen series in Tokyo. For music lovers, you can celebrate at a blues festival in Texas or a weekend in the desert in California. 

 

1. Oktoberfest

Celebrated in: Munich, Germany

 

Why is it worth attending Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is the crown jewel in the beer festival crown, with millions coming to Munich every year. For two weeks, from late September to the first week of October, this sprawling city is transformed into a Bavarian wonderland. 

 

Giant tents serve the golden-colored beer in one-liter steins alongside a host of hearty Bavarian dishes, including bratwurst, chicken roasted in the beer, and pretzels. Visitors come dressed in traditional costume, lederhosen for the guys and dirndls for the gals, with folk music, lively parades, and the excitement in the air creates an unforgettable vibe. 

 

There is more to see and do than beer, carnival rides, and colorfully costumed parades. There are Bavarian museums and displays of cultural heritage, and in towns outside of Munich, there are various Oktoberfest celebrations, including live bands, street fairs, and amusement rides and games showcasing Bavarian hospitality culture. 

 

Travel tip: 

Book your accommodation early, as Munich is full and has very few options to choose from during this time. 

 

2. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 

Celebrated in: New Mexico, USA

 

Why is it worth attending the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?

In the chilly October air, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta creates a colorful spectacle of hundreds of beautiful hot air balloons. The balloon fiesta takes place at the beginning of October, for nine days, and is the biggest event of its kind in the world. 

 

People from around the world come to pilot and be a part of the Fiesta. The highlight of the event is the "Mass Ascension," when waves of balloons rise into the early sunrise together.  For a nighttime experience, there are evening "Balloon Glows," where the balloons are brightly lit like glowing orbs, creating another beautiful experience in the desert.

 

In addition to the balloon flights, there are also photo contests, craft stalls, and live entertainment throughout the event. For travelers, the balloon festival represents the perfect family-friendly festival with ample activities for both children and adults. 

 

Travel tip: 

Dress in layers since early mornings are very cold, transitioning to very warm in the afternoons. 

 

3. Diwali 

Celebrated in: India and Worldwide

 

Why is it worth attending Diwali?

Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India among the Hindu religion. Popularly known as “Festival of Lights,” Diwali is celebrated to represent the triumph of good over evil or light over darkness. 

 

Find neighborhoods lit up beautifully with the oil lamps placed near the vibrant rangolis at the doorsteps. Firecrackers are a major part of this festival, often blown at night, transforming the dark sky into a dreamy, colourful night sky. 

 

Diwali draws attention to the fact that spending time with your family and loved ones is a feeling to be cherished. It brings families closer, through various customs and rituals involving exchanging gifts and sweets. 

 

Not only is it a festival to have fun with your family, but it also features elaborate poojas being done with the utmost belief and spirituality in each house and temple, creating a positive atmosphere. 

 

Travel tip:

Attending the famous Ganga Arti in Varanasi and witnessing lamps floating in the Ganges is a must-have experience.

 

4. Dussehra

Celebrated in: India

 

Why is it worth attending Dussehra?

Dussehra is an October festival in early to mid-October, celebrating Lord Rama's victory over the demon King Ravana represents the triumph of good over evil. The event associated with Dussehra that attracts the most interest is the burning of large effigies of Ravana, fireworks, and cultural events. 

 

One of the world's most famous Dussehra festivities is held in Mysore, Karnataka, where thousands visit to see the lit-up Mysore Palace and procession of decorated elephants.  In northern India, towns host “Ramlila,” an act of the Ramayana that gathers a large audience. 

 

Travel tip: 

Combine Dussehra with a trip for Diwali to make a true Indian festive trip.

 

5. Austin City Limits Music Festival 

Celebrated in: Texas, USA

 

Why is it worth attending the Austin City Limits Music Festival?

Austin City Limits (ACL) is a music lover's dream come true, held every October in Zilker Park, Austin, Texas. During two weekends, ACL features eight stages with performances by some of the world's most famous artists and up-and-coming talent in genres like rock, country, hip-hop, and indie. 

 

It's much more than just music as the festival has art installations, local food vendors, a kids' area, and much more to help make it an experience open to everyone. The festival helps support Austin's image as the "Live Music Capital of the World," and attracts fans from all corners of the Earth. 

 

Travel Tip: 

If you can, purchase a weekend pass to catch as many performances as possible. 

 

6. Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival

Celebrated in: Ireland

 

Why is it worth attending the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival?

Attending the Galway International Oyster & Seafood Festival in late September to early October will be a treat for anyone with a passion for food! 

 

Founded in 1954, it is one of the oldest and most well-known oyster festivals around the world. The festival kicks off the oyster season with a bang, featuring shucking competitions, tastings, and seafood feasts with Guinness perfectly matched.

 

Besides oyster considerations, the festival boasts street parades, live music, and spectacular galas. Meet chefs and experts while sampling the freshest shellfish that Ireland has to offer.

 

Travel tip: 

If you are truly looking to splurge on quality, be sure to book your tickets ahead of time for the Oyster Opening Championship and the gala dinner. 

 

7. London Cocktail Week 

Celebrated in: United Kingdom

 

Why is it worth attending London Cocktail Week?

There is extra exuberance in October in London with London Cocktail Week, the largest celebration of cocktail culture in the world! For 10 days, bars all over the city will be making special cocktails for wristband holders to enjoy at a discount from their bar price. 

 

You can explore the hidden bars as well as the extravagant rooftop bars and enjoy sipping cocktails across London's exciting bar scene.

 

From masterclasses by world-famous bartenders to tasting sessions and pop-up cocktail experiences where creativity flows as abundantly as the cocktails.

 

Travel tip: 

Purchase a wristband for exclusive menus & specials. Map out your trip to visit a mix of classic and contemporary cocktail bars. 

 

8. Tokyo Ramen Festival

Celebrated in: Tokyo, Japan

 

Why is it worth attending the Tokyo Ramen Festival?

October is the best time of year for ramen lovers, as it features the Tokyo Ramen Festival at Komazawa Olympic Park. The festival lasts approximately two weeks and features ramen chefs from various prefectures across Japan, each showcasing their specialty ramen. 

 

The ramen lovers can also purchase tasting tickets and eat as many ramen bowls as they can, which are valid for a year! The ramen festival is held outdoors, providing a great opportunity for you to soak in the fall season, all while you enjoy Japan's most popular noodle dish. 

 

Travel tips: 

Be hungry and bring cash for fast transactions. The weekdays are not as busy as the weekends.

 

9. Thimphu Tshechu 

Celebrated in: Bhutan

 

Why is it worth attending Thimphu Tshechu?

Thimphu Tshechu is one of Bhutan’s major festivals and takes place in October each year in Thimphu. The three-day religious festival celebrates Guru Rinpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. 

 

Monks and community members perform sacred mask dances (cham), and while the people wear elaborate costumes and bright masks, singing to the traditional music that fills the courtyards of the Tashichho Dzong, there is nothing better than witnessing these dances and rituals, which go back centuries, against the backdrop of the country's mountains.

 

The locals consider it a spiritual responsibility to attend the Tshechu. For visitors, it’s an immersive experience like no other. It’s not every day that you have an opportunity to see these rituals, and to do so in Bhutan is a priceless once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 

Travel tip: 

It is a government requirement that all visitors to Bhutan must book through a licensed tour operator, so plan well in advance. Dress modestly, also seats can be limited, and in these cases, don’t interrupt the rituals. You should have no problem taking photos in most outdoor circumstances, but be cautious inside temples.

 

10. Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival

Celebrated in: Paris, France

 

Why is it worth attending the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival?

Paris might have a reputation for being a wine city, but not many know that it has vineyards! Each year in October, Montmartre presents the Fête des Vendanges (the Grape Harvest Festival), to honour its historic Clos Montmartre vineyard. The festival offers a lot of fun, wine tastings, gourmet food stalls, live music, and art exhibits.

 

The parade is one of the highlights, with the dancers, musicians, local organizations, and all of Montmartre's cobblestone streets. It's an exceptional experience to see Paris beyond the tourist attractions and discover its village-like atmosphere.

 

Travel tip: 

Make sure to try the limited-edition Clos Montmartre wine that is produced from the grapes harvested in the middle of Paris. 

 

11. Desert Daze Music Festival

Celebrated in: California, USA

 

Why is it worth attending the Desert Daze Music Festival?

Desert Daze is a unique music festival every October on the shores of Lake Perris, California. Known for its psychedelic vibe, it embraces an alternative music scene spurring genres like indie rock, experimental, and electronic. 

 

It's not just about music, but Desert Daze is an experience! Artistic installations, workshops for fun, lakeside camping, and under starry billionaire nights are the best places to experience music!

 

An intimate festival, Desert Daze celebrates being a small and relaxing environment compared to a huge festival, and it is a well-curated festival. The artists love and appreciate this about the festival, and can interact with fans and unwind, and disconnect from everyday life.

 

The festival is surrounded by a surreal desert landscape, which makes it the ultimate destination for free-spirited and music lovers alike. Great company, good vibes, stunning views.

 

Travel tip: 

Be prepared for the desert temperature swings! Pack for warm days and cold nights. Book your accommodations early, or reserve a camping spot to join the festival party. 

 

12. Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Celebrated in: Phuket, Thailand

 

Why is it worth attending the Phuket Vegetarian Festival?

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is among the most unusual and striking festivals in Asia, taking place in October, during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar. This festival is devoted to spiritual cleansing, where participants are expected to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet and take part in rituals purposed to cleanse the body and free the mind.

 

The festival has gained popularity for its extreme acts of devotion. Some devotees stick swords through their cheeks, walk on burning hot coals, and perform other shocking acts of devotion in honor of the gods. Last, in addition to the extreme rituals, the streets of Phuket are filled with processions, fireworks, and plenty of stalls and food to enjoy an assortment of vegetarian Thai food.

 

Travel tip: 

If you are sensitive to violent imagery, spend your time at food markets or cultural performances. Dress modestly, and sample local specialties like vegetarian pad Thai or tofu satay.

 

13. Nuit Blanche 

Celebrated in: Paris, France, and Worldwide

 

Why is it worth attending Nuit Blanche?

For one magical night in October, Paris is a city-wide gallery with the annual all-night festival of art, Nuit Blanche. Almost every museum, park, and public space hosts contemporary art installations, light projections, and interactive experiences, all for free. 

 

The event promotes the idea of encountering art in alternative spaces, whether they be bridges lit up with colourful displays or street performances where you may even become part of the experience yourself.  Other cities, including Toronto and Montreal, host similar events, but Paris is the most popular. 

 

Travel tip: 

The official map is the best option to plan your route for Nuit Blanche and to highlight installations you want to ensure you see. 

 

14. Sitges Film Festival 

Celebrated in: Spain

 

Why is it worth attending Sitges Film Festival?

The Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival, which takes place in the charming coastal town of Sitges, just outside of Barcelona, is a must-visit for fans of horror and fantasy films. 

 

It's held every October and is one of the most reputable genre film festivals on the planet, attracting talent from all around the world, including filmmakers, actors, and fans.

 

As part of the festival, audiences can expect to have access to screenings of the freshest films, Q&As with directors, as well as themed events celebrating the innovation in horror and sci-fi films. With stunning Mediterranean beaches, Sitges offers two of the best opportunities for an event and a relaxing time away.

 

Travel tip: 

If there is a particular screening you want to make sure you see, book tickets ahead of time since popular ones sell quickly.

 

 15. Salem Haunted Happenings 

Celebrated in: Massachusetts, USA

 

Why is it worth attending  Salem Haunted Happenings?

Salem, Massachusetts, in October, is nothing less than a dream for Halloween lovers. As the birthplace of the infamous 1692 witch trials, the city doesn't hold back during its Haunted Happenings, a month-long celebration that includes haunted houses, ghost tours, parades, and everything witch-related. 

 

Costumed visitors fill the streets while themed markets sell spell books, décor, and everything scary. The centerpiece is the massive Halloween night party where thousands of people come dressed in creative costumes to party the night away.  

 

Travel tip: 

For enjoyable weather and plenty of events to choose from, visit in mid-October. While in Salem, be sure to check out the Salem Witch Museum for a compelling glimpse into the past.

 

16. Frieze Art Fair

Celebrated in: London, UK

 

Why is it worth attending the Frieze Art Fair?

The fair is a must-see for art collectors, curators, and lovers alike, thanks to exhibitions, talks, performances, and installations. Every October, London's Regent's Park hosts the Frieze Art Fair, a big deal on the international art scene. 

 

You'll find over 160 galleries showing off both today's art and pieces from the past. The fair is more than just a buying opportunity for art lovers or curators, but it is an experience to be had. 

 

Travel tip: 

Frieze is not just about collecting, as even if you don’t collect art, it is a great way to stay inspired and see what’s happening in the art world. Buy your tickets ahead of time, and check out other interesting cultural destinations that may be in the vicinity, like the British Museum.

 

17. Colombo Art Biennale

Celebrated in: Sri Lanka

 

Why is it worth attending the Colombo Art Biennale?

The Colombo Art Biennale takes place during October to display the dynamic artistic expressions from South Asian artists who work in painting and installation art and photography, and performance art. 

The festival establishes venues across galleries and public areas to present strong expressions that explore matters relating to selfhood, together with environmental issues and social structures.

 

Travel tip: 

 

The biennale can be combined with tours to Sri Lanka's historical colonial sites, together with its beach destinations. Colombo's art community is developing rapidly, so you should see the upcoming local artists who are introducing fresh narratives.

 

18. Festival Internacional Cervantino 

Celebrated in: Guanajuato, Mexico

 

Why is it worth attending the Festival Internacional Cervantino?

The October festival in Guanajuato celebrates Miguel de Cervantes with a jubilant festival complete with music, theater, literature, and dance. Shows by international artists in colonial plazas and historic venues draw creators and culture enthusiasts from near and far.

 

Travel tip: 

Plan for accommodations as Guanajuato's quaint alleys and lively air attract large travelers. Wear sturdy shoes so you can explore the cobbled streets and hilly city when you are not busy watching a performance.

 

19. White Nights Special Performances 

Celebrated in: St. Petersburg, Russia

 

Why is it worth attending White Nights Special Performances?

While the festival of White Nights culminates in the summer, you will find a unique number of ballet and opera performances in October at the famous Mariinsky Theatre. These performances are an elegant continuation of the culture and arts in Russia, and will provide an intimate step away from throngs of people in the summer months.

 

Travel tip: 

Dress sharply and book early, as people will snatch these events up. Pair these experiences with visits to the Hermitage Museum and St. Isaac's Cathedral for an adventure in culture. 

 

20. Halloween 

Celebrated in: Worldwide

 

Why is it worth attending Halloween?

 

Halloween is celebrated worldwide on October 31, and is a night of costumes, candy, and all that's spooky. Whether it be haunted hayrides in the U.S., ghost tours in Europe, or themed festivals in Asia, every part of the world will have its own twist. Some popular places like Salem, New Orleans, and Tokyo really go all in with remarkably creative events.

 

Travel tip: 

If you are traveling in late October, be sure to bring a costume, as you are sure to find a celebration wherever you are. Be sure to research local customs, as some areas are potentially more spiritual and others are more theatrical. It is a fun and festive way to end the month.