Different cultures across the country celebrate different festivals marked by singing, dancing, parades, food, and lots of fun. The festivities unite people and give them a sense of belonging and pride. They also offer individuals a break from their daily routines and an opportunity to spend time with friends and family. Those who love celebrations or want to learn more about different traditions can explore many popular cultural events in the country.
Mardi Gras
Originally a French holiday, Mardi Gras is now celebrated in different countries. In the USA, it is mainly celebrated in New Orleans, Louisiana. Traditionally, Mardi Gras is celebrated on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday and signals the end of the Carnival season that begins on the twelfth night of Christmas (6 January). It is one of the major cultural events in the country, filled with color and joy. The festival’s biggest attraction is the parades that flood the streets, featuring people in fancy costumes. Like popular parades, the New Orleans Mardi Gras parade also features giant floats.
The Burning Man Festival
Unlike its grim name, the Burning Man Festival is filled with happiness and celebrations. This cultural festival of America is hosted in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada and lasts a whole week—from the last Sunday of August till the first Monday of September. The Burning Man Festival is considered a celebration of self-expression and art, so it commonly features art installations and musical performances. Its main attraction, however, is the burning of a wooden effigy of a man (as goes the festival’s name). This burning effigy can symbolize various things, such as self-reliance and the rejection of capitalism.
The Aloha Festival
As might be evident from the name, the Aloha Festival is a cultural event celebrated in Hawaii. The festival features music shows, street dance performances, food tastings, and workshops that teach Hawaiian culture. Hundreds of events are conducted on six different islands. One can even expect to catch parades, block parties, and hula performances when visiting Hawaii during this time. Thanks to such varied festivities, the Aloha festival is considered one of the best US cultural celebrations. It usually begins around September and lasts a whole month.
Jazz And Heritage Festival
Besides the Mardi Gras, New Orleans is home to another top US festival—the Jazz and Heritage Festival. This festival mainly celebrates the music, heritage, and art of New Orleans and is among the country’s top art and music festivals. It begins on the last weekend of April and lasts till the first weekend of May.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this is among the must-attend cultural events in the USA. During the International Balloon Fiesta, hundreds of hot air balloons are launched into the sky, creating a stunning display of colors. Attendees can even ride in the hot air balloons to fully experience the celebration. Along with this event, the festival features art shows and live music performances. When hungry, one can enjoy scrumptious food from the numerous food trucks that offer delicious treats.
Kutztown Folk Festival
This festival started in the 1950s to celebrate the German population living in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. During the festivities, local folk don traditional costumes and play traditional music, creating an amazing atmosphere. The Kutztown Folk Festival also attracts numerous craftsmen and artists and features the largest quilt sale in the country. Another attraction is the delicious food. Attendees can chomp on some of the tastiest pastries and fresh breads. The Kutztown Folk Festival is usually held in the last days of June till the first few days of July. Those wishing to attend this cultural event can mark their calendars accordingly.
Greek Agora Festival
Hosted in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, this festival celebrates Greek American heritage. It features parades, Greek dances, and traditional bouzouki music. Attendees of the Greek Agora Festival can also enjoy Greek dishes, such as baklava, moussaka, and spanakopita. The festival is usually held in the first few days of October when the people of Greece celebrate Oxi Day.
Bavarian Blast
The Bavarian Blast festival, hosted in New Ulm, Minnesota, is filled with dancing, music, and amazing food. It is especially known for polka dancing, German band performances, horse wagons, and tuba performances. While enjoying these street and musical celebrations, one can treat oneself to the authentic German food and drinks sold at the event.
Groundhog Day
This is an unusual yet entertaining single-day cultural event where people predict how long winter will last by observing a groundhog emerge from a borrow. Groundhog Day is celebrated in various parts of the country, including Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, New Jersey, and North Carolina. Besides the rodent observation, the celebrations include musical and skit performances in theatres, parties, speeches, and dancing. A lot of places even host public screenings of the Bill Murray-starring film Groundhog Day, which is set around the festival.