12 Best Festivals in August Around the World for 2024
August arrives with the promise of adventure, sunshine, and amazing festivals. If you’re looking for the best festivals in August to plan your month around, read on!
With many options for cultural immersion and good times, August is a prime time for expanding your horizons, and mind. Buying a ticket to a festival is one of the best ways to achieve this. Whether you’re indulging in a musical extravaganza or immersing yourself in the intricacies of a foreign celebration, August offers many opportunities for festival lovers.
Here are the top 10 festivals in August you should beeline to…
Top Festivals in August this Year
These are the best August festivals to add to your wishlist!
1. Boomtown Festival, Winchester
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Experience the thrill of Boomtown Festival, an annual extravaganza that blends music and arts into a magnificent five-day celebration. Nestled in the charming South Downs National Park in Winchester, UK, this festival attracts adventure-seekers and music enthusiasts from all over. With a diverse musical lineup featuring reggae, punk, hip-hop, and electronic music, Boomtown Festival delivers a unique musical experience.
But the festival in August is more than just music – it’s a multi-sensory feast to tantalise your senses. From captivating street performers to thought-provoking art installations, Boomtown Festival offers an immersive experience. Each year, the festival features a unique theme with themed districts that transport festival-goers to a different world. Old Town’s vibrant energy, DSTRKT 5’s futuristic vibes, or Mayfair Avenue’s enchanting ambiance, keep the festival interesting.
You’ll enjoy the main stage’s pulsating beats, alongside the laid-back vibes of the smaller stages –offering diverse musical offerings to suit all tastes. If you need a break from the music, explore the various food and drink vendors offering many culinary delights. Boomtown is one of the best festivals in Hampshire.
2. Burning Man, Nevada, USA
25th August – 2nd September 2024
Nestled within the barren Black Rock Desert of Nevada, USA, lies Burning Man, a one-of-a-kind festival that captivates all who attend. The festival spans eight days, each filled with opportunities to express yourself creatively, forge connections within the community, and bask in the awe-inspiring art installations.
From flamboyant costumes to intricate rituals like the fiery burning of a colossal wooden effigy, Burning Man offers an unparalleled experience that ignites the soul and shatters boundaries. This festival is where perspectives are challenged, and horizons are broadened a transformative and unforgettable journey.
It’s also pretty cool to experience and to say you’ve been to one of the best festivals in the world! It’s one of the events in August that you can tick off your bucket list.
READ MORE: Festivals like Burning Man, but Different
3. Creamfields, Daresbury
22nd – 25th August 2024
In the heart of Daresbury, UK, lies Creamfields. The festival, held annually during the August bank holiday week, showcases a plethora of electronic music sensations, immersing attendees in a mind-blowing audiovisual experience. With a lineup that reads like a who’s who of the electronic music industry, festival-goers are treated to an astonishingly diverse range of musical styles that defy the bounds of the imagination.
The only thing predictable about this festival is the unpredictability of its artistic curation, leaving even the most experienced electronic music aficionados spellbound and craving for more. In essence, Creamfields is the ultimate destination for those seeking an electrifying experience transcending conventional music festivals’ boundaries.
4. Edinburgh Fringe Festival
2nd – 26th August 2024
The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is a vibrant cultural phenomenon that offers an unparalleled showcase of global creative talent. Situated in the charming city of Edinburgh, Scotland, this event is an absolute must-see for those who have a voracious appetite for the arts and crave diverse cultural experiences.
The festival spans an impressive three-week period and transforms the city into a bustling hub of artistic expression. From internationally renowned performances to hidden gems waiting to be discovered, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival boasts an exceptional lineup of passionate artists and performers who are committed to their craft. The festival’s diversity is unparalleled, offering everything from experimental theatre to cutting-edge dance, world-class music to side-splitting comedy.
A distinctive feature of the festival is the street performers who electrify the cobblestone streets with their astonishing acts and displays. Additionally, numerous art exhibitions and pop-up venues add to the immersive and interactive atmosphere, providing visitors with a truly unforgettable experience.
While you’re there, see if you can get tickets to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo – it remains one of the most impressive spectacles I’ve seen in all my travels!
5. Elvis Week, Memphis, USA
9th – 17th August, 2024
Elvis Week, held annually in August at Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee, USA, is a nine-day festival that celebrates the iconic life and enduring legacy of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. With diverse events and activities, Elvis Week offers a unique and immersive experience for diehard fans and casual enthusiasts.
The festival boasts an array of exciting options, from live concerts, featuring acclaimed performers to screenings of classic Elvis films. Attendees can also indulge in tribute shows and exhibitions, offering an intimate look at the life and times of the beloved musician. The festival serves as a fitting tribute to the cultural impact and unparalleled influence of the legendary Elvis Presley.
Graceland, Elvis’s beloved home, serves as the perfect backdrop for the celebrations in August. The festival is a vibrant and bustling affair, with a palpable sense of energy and excitement permeating the air. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or simply curious about the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Week is a must-see event!
READ MORE: How to Have the Best Weekend in Memphis, Tennessee
6. Hungry Ghost Festival, China
18th August 2024
The Hungry Ghost Festival is one of the significant occasions in August deeply rooted in Chinese tradition. It usually takes place in the latter half of August or early September. This festival serves as a time to pay respect to the departed souls by offering them gifts, food, and other offerings as a sign of reverence.
Apart from this, the festival is marked by various traditional dances and ceremonies that people across different regions of China perform. These rituals are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to those who observe them. With its rich cultural significance and diverse customs, the Hungry Ghost Festival continues to be a vibrant and integral part of Chinese heritage, celebrated enthusiastically and fervently.
7. La Feria de Flores (Festival of Flowers), Colombia
11th August 2024
Nestled in the heart of bustling Medellín lies the La Feria de Flores, a stunning festival that celebrates Colombia’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty in an extravagant display of flowers. The vibrant festivities are breathtaking, with flower-covered floats parading through the streets, filling the air with an intoxicating scent.
But the Festival of Flowers isn’t solely a tribute to Colombia’s awe-inspiring flora. The celebration also encompasses an array of diverse cultural events and activities, ranging from live musical performances to traditional dance shows and mouthwatering culinary delicacies that perfectly embody the distinctive flavors of Colombian cuisine.
When you step foot in the festival, you’ll be immersed in an electric atmosphere that invigorates the senses with an eclectic burst of colours and sounds. Locals and visitors alike converge to pay homage to the splendid diversity of Colombian culture.
8. La Tomatina, Valencia
28th August 2024
Buñol’s La Tomatina is an unforgettable event that attracts thousands of visitors to Valencia, Spain, every year. The world-renowned tomato-throwing festival has been a tradition since 1945, and its popularity continues to grow.
Participants arm themselves with juicy, ripe tomatoes as the festival commences, ready to launch them at their fellow revelers. The streets rapidly transform into a red sea as the tomatoes soar. The aroma of tomatoes permeates the air, and people slip and slide on the tomato pulp that blankets the ground.
Beyond being a fun event, the festival holds significant cultural importance. It is a celebration of Buñol’s history and people, an opportunity for locals to come together and celebrate their culture, and for visitors to partake in a slice of Spanish life.
READ MORE: How to Photograph La Tomatina / What Do I Need to Take to Tomatina
9. Notting Hill Carnival
25th August 2024
The Notting Hill Carnival, held annually on the vibrant streets of West London, England, is a feast for the senses. This spectacular event, which spans the August Bank Holiday weekend, is the biggest street festival in Europe and a tribute to the rich and vibrant culture of the Caribbean. The Carnival is a riot of colour, music, dance, and cuisine embodying the Caribbean’s spirit.
The Carnival is a celebration of the diversity and creativity of the Caribbean community, and its influence can be seen throughout the streets of Notting Hill. The parade is a dazzling display of floats and dancers, showcasing the intricate costumes and elaborate choreography that are the hallmark of Caribbean culture. The crowds are a mix of locals and visitors worldwide; all united in their love of music, dance, and good times.
As night falls, the party continues, with live performances from some of the biggest names in Caribbean music and DJs spinning tunes until the early hours. The Carnival is a unique and unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of the Caribbean and showcases the diversity and vibrancy of London’s cultural scene. With its infectious energy, colorful pageantry, and mouth-watering cuisine, the Notting Hill Carnival is a must-see event for anyone looking for a truly unforgettable experience.
10. Rock en Seine, Paris
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Rock en Seine is not just your average music festival – it’s a celebration of sound, culture, and community that takes place in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The festival, held annually in the lush Parc de Saint-Cloud, is a magnet for music lovers of all ages and backgrounds, who flock to Paris from far and wide to experience its unique blend of international and local talent.
From blistering rock and roll to cutting-edge electronica, there’s something for everyone at Rock en Seine. The festival prides itself on its diverse lineup, which showcases some of the most exciting and innovative acts from around the globe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic rock or a devotee of experimental beats, you will surely find something that will set your soul ablaze at Rock en Seine.
And, of course, no festival would be complete without its share of surprises and hidden gems. From impromptu jam sessions to secret shows, Rock en Seine is full of unexpected moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
11. Reading and Leeds Festivals
21st – 25th August 2024
The Reading and Leeds Festivals are among the UK’s most iconic music festivals, held annually on the August Bank Holiday weekend. The twin festivals draw famous artists from indie, rock and other music genre, such as Liam Gallagher, Biffy Clyro, Disclosure, Post Malone, Nirvana, Eminem and more.
Reading is held in Berkshire, meanwhile Leeds Festival happens at the same time in Bramham Park. The Reading Festival is the world’s oldest popular music festival still in existence. It initially focused on jazz, but is now one of the most popular August celebrations around the world for rock and alternative music. Leeds Festival was added in 1999 to meet the growing demand and appeal to audiences in the North of England.
You can get all advice on how to pack for Reading in my blog – including things you really shouldn’t forget.
12. Green Man Festival
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Located in the Brecon Beacons, the Green Man Festival is an annual music festival that started with a focus on folk music. It’s now more wide-ranging, including genres like indie rock, alternative, electronic, and world music. It’s also got things like art installations, literature, comedy and wellness activities.
It’s a good festival for families, where they have a dedicated family camping field. There’s also a Teenage Area where they can try out things like DJ workshops, filmmaking or T-shirt design. And younger kids will love the music sessions and Sunday parade.
Festivals in August
The month of August is a veritable feast of festivals around the globe, where a plethora of vibrant and diverse events can be found, spanning a variety of nations and traditions. Whether you are a connoisseur of soundscapes, a culinary adventurer, or an ardent aficionado of heritage, there is bound to be August international events to ignite your passions.
Which of these great August festivals is the one for you?
READ MORE: The Best Festivals in September
What are the traditional August festivals?
August is a lively month in the UK, Europe and around the world, brimming with traditional festivals. Some of the popular ones include Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland and Burning Man in the US. There’s also the beauty of Obon festivals in Japan, where people honour their ancestors through dance and lantern ceremonies. Carnival events also spill into August in the Caribbean, filled with Calypso music, elaborate costumes, and spirited parades. Then there’s La Tomatina in Spain, a unique festival where participants engage in a massive tomato fight purely for fun.
What does the UK celebrate in August?
In August, the UK celebrates a wide range of events. The month is well-known for its music festivals like Reading and Leeds, Creamfields, and Green Man Festival. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe turns Scotland’s capital into a hub for performing arts. August also marks the Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s largest street festival, which celebrates Caribbean culture. Additionally, many regions have their local fêtes, fairs, and agricultural shows. August is a time for outdoor activities and making the most of the British summer.
What is the month of August known for?
There are lots of special days in August In the UK, where the month is known for being one of the warmest months of the year. It’s perfect for outdoor activities and holidays. Schools are out too, so it’s a popular time for family vacations.
August is also famous for its range of festivals, from cultural events like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to music festivals such as Reading and Leeds. The month is also notable for the August Bank Holiday, which many people use as an opportunity for a short getaway or to attend special events.
What August bank holiday festivals take place?
The August Bank Holiday weekend sees a flurry of festival activities across the UK. Notting Hill Carnival usually takes place on this weekend, filling the streets of West London with vibrant costumes and Caribbean music.
Other festivals like Creamfields and Reading and Leeds often schedule their events to coincide with the bank holiday. Various local fêtes, fairs, and food festivals also typically take place over the bank holiday weekend, offering lots of options for those looking to celebrate.
Which are the best music festivals in August in the UK?
August is a great month for music festivals in the UK. Among the best are Reading and Leeds Festivals, Creamfields, Green Man Festival, Boardmasters, and Boomtown Fair. The August festival list has everything in music from rock and indie to electronic, to music paired with surfing.