Carnival season is coming to an end in various nations around the world but we’re already prepping for next season’s extravaganzas! We’re all about cultural unity and so we’ve been on the hunt for the most unique and fun cultural festivals around the world. The IAC team will be packing our culture gear and adding these events to our bucket lists!
1. Holi a.k.a. Festival of Colors in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka is a celebration of the end of winter and the beginning of spring. It’s fun, safe, and free! Just remember to BYOD(bring your own dye). March 6, 2015

2. Carnevale in Venice, Italy has been a tradition since the 13th century. People flock from all over the world to participate in the masked celebrations, parades, and parties. Feb. 17, 2015

3. Mardi Gras in New Orleans, U.S. has made a name for itself all over the world. It’s said that if you want to party like there’s no tomorrow, New Orleans’ Mardi Gras is where you belong! Feb 17, 2015

4. Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany is the original and biggest beer festival in the world. Last year more than $96 million worth of beer was served every day during the festival! Now that’s what we call a celebration! Sept 20 – Oct 5, 2014

5. Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro is a nonstop party, just with a Brazilian flair. It’s filled with samba music, colorful costumes, and giant parades! Feb. 28–March 4, 2015

6. Spice Mas Carnival in Grenada is an independence day celebration with Calypso music, a steel band competition, elaborate dress and masks, and plenty of cool parties and events. August 2-12, 2014

Of course our list only included 6 destinations but see some more awesome festivals and dates below:
– Caribana – Toronto, Canada – Aug 31-July 3, 2014
– Glastonbury – Glastonbury, England – June 25–29, 2014
– Running of the Bulls — Pamplona, Spain – July 6-14, 2014
– Tomorrowland – Boom, Belgium, July 18- 27, 2014
– Coachella – Indio, California – April 10-12 & 17-19, 2015