Cultural Festivals Worth Travelling For (With or Without Kids)
By The Cultured Passport
Some people plan their trips around the beach. I plan mine around a story — and nothing tells a story quite like a cultural festival. The music, the food, the traditional dress, the rituals — they’re not performances, they’re expressions. Real, lived celebrations of identity, history, and joy.
Whether I’m exploring on my own or with my kids by my side, these are the moments that make us feel connected to the heart of a place. And honestly? They’re unforgettable.
Here are a few festivals from around the world that are 100% worth the flight — and yes, they’re incredible with or without kids.
🎭 Gion Matsuri – Kyoto, Japan
When: July
Why Go: For ancient pageantry and summer street fun.
Gion Matsuri is over 1,000 years old — and it feels like stepping back in time. Think ornate floats pulled by hand, lantern-lit processions, and kimono-clad locals. At night, the city glows. Street food vendors line the roads, and music fills the air.
Solo Vibe: A meditative experience — especially walking quiet shrine paths early in the morning.
With Kids: The parades are a hit! Kids love the music, bright costumes, and festival snacks (hello, melon pan!).
🎨 Fête de la Musique – Paris, France
When: June 21st
Why Go: Because everyone in Paris becomes a performer for one night.
The streets of Paris turn into stages. From classical string quartets in courtyards to punk rockers on bridges — music spills into every corner. It’s raw, alive, and beautifully unscripted.
Solo Vibe: A dream for music lovers who want to wander and discover hidden talent.
With Kids: Earlier in the day, many neighbourhoods have family-friendly performances in parks and plazas.
🐉 Inti Raymi – Cusco, Peru
When: June 24th
Why Go: For a powerful reenactment of Incan heritage at 11,000 feet.
This “Festival of the Sun” honours the winter solstice in the Andes with a full-scale, costumed performance that reclaims pre-Colombian identity. It’s spiritual, colourful, and deeply moving.
Solo Vibe: Soak in the history and symbolism with a guided tour for cultural context.
With Kids: The dramatic costumes and storytelling-style performances keep even young ones engaged.
💃 Feria de Abril – Seville, Spain
When: Two weeks after Easter
Why Go: For flamenco flair, horse parades, and all-night dancing.
The whole city transforms with bright tents, traditional dresses, and rhythmic energy. You don’t just attend this fair — you become part of it.
Solo Vibe: Perfect for cultural immersion — book a flamenco class or go solo to a ‘caseta’ (tent) and make new friends.
With Kids: Family-friendly during the day with rides, sweet treats, and performances.
🌺 Matariki – New Zealand (Aotearoa)
When: Late June–Early July
Why Go: To witness Māori New Year — a blend of reflection, remembrance, and celestial celebration.
Matariki celebrates the reappearance of the Pleiades star cluster, marking a new year in the Māori lunar calendar. Events include storytelling, art exhibitions, performances, and stargazing.
Solo Vibe: Deeply spiritual and grounding. Ideal for thoughtful travel.
With Kids: Interactive workshops and family events encourage hands-on cultural learning.
✨ Why These Festivals Matter
They remind us that culture isn’t just in museums — it lives, breathes, and dances. Festivals are where tradition meets today. They’re joyful, often sacred, always meaningful.
Whether you’re chasing music, honouring the stars, or eating your weight in street snacks, cultural festivals are invitations to step inside someone else’s world — and bring a piece of it home with you.
🌍Picks for Festival-Ready Travel
🧥Woman’s Lightweight Wrap - for those cooler evenings
🎒Daypack - perfect for parades + picnics