11 U.S. Towns Built Around One Big Annual Festival
Some U.S. towns are built around a major annual event that defines their culture and brings visitors from far and wide. These festivals, whether celebrating food, music, or traditions, create a unique experience for both locals and tourists. If you love festivals, these towns should be on your radar for your next family getaway.
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New Orleans, Louisiana – Mardi Gras
New Orleans is world-renowned for its Mardi Gras celebration, a festival that fills the streets with colorful parades, music, and extravagant costumes. Every year, families flock to the city to experience the vibrant floats, dazzling beads, and lively marching bands that define this unique event. Mardi Gras is more than just a parade; it’s a cultural experience where families can explore the rich history of the city through the music, food, and traditions passed down through generations.
While the festivities can get lively, there are plenty of family-friendly events like the Krewe of Iris parade and the St. Charles Avenue parade, which cater to younger audiences. The city’s warm and welcoming vibe, coupled with the carnival atmosphere, makes it an ideal spot for families to celebrate together. Even outside the main parades, the air is filled with excitement, making Mardi Gras in New Orleans an unforgettable experience for kids and parents alike.
Gilroy, California – Garlic Festival
The Gilroy Garlic Festival, held every summer, brings thousands of visitors to this small town in California, renowned for its garlic production. The festival, which features garlic-themed dishes like garlic ice cream and garlic bread, showcases the best of local cuisine and culture. Families can enjoy everything from cooking demonstrations to contests and even a garlic-eating competition, making it an entertaining and flavorful event.
The atmosphere at the festival is lively, with food stands, live music, and activities designed for all ages. For those interested in learning more about the town’s history, the Garlic Festival provides a fun and educational experience as well. It’s an excellent destination for families who enjoy unique food experiences, outdoor activities, and a sense of local community.
Chincoteague, Virginia – Pony Penning Day
Chincoteague, a quiet island on the eastern shore of Virginia, is home to the famous Pony Penning Day, where wild ponies swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague. This centuries-old tradition takes place every July and attracts visitors from across the country to witness the spectacle. Families can enjoy watching the ponies swim and then participate in the auction, where some of the ponies are sold to raise funds for the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company.
Beyond the ponies, the event is a full day of family fun with carnival rides, games, and delicious food. The quaint town offers other attractions, such as hiking in Assateague Island National Seashore, bird watching, and visits to the local wildlife refuge. The town’s charm and the memorable Pony Penning Day make it an unforgettable destination for family visitors.
Lindsborg, Kansas – Swedish Midsummer Festival
Lindsborg, often called “Little Sweden USA,” celebrates its Swedish heritage every June with a lively Midsummer Festival. This event features traditional Swedish music, dancing, and food, as well as the raising of a Maypole. Families can enjoy performances of folk dances, watch the parade of traditional Swedish costumes, and indulge in Swedish pastries like kringla and Swedish meatballs.
Beyond the festival, Lindsborg offers a glimpse into Swedish culture, with museums and galleries showcasing local art and history. The town’s peaceful, small-town charm adds to the festival’s warm atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families looking for a cultural experience. The Swedish Midsummer Festival brings the community together, creating lasting memories for everyone who attends.
Asheville, North Carolina – Bele Chere Festival
Asheville’s Bele Chere Festival, once the largest free street festival in the Southeast, celebrates the city’s vibrant arts and music scene. The festival features live performances from local bands, street performers, and artists showcasing their work. Although the festival ended in 2013, its spirit still lives on in Asheville’s year-round celebration of art, music, and local culture.
The town continues to host a variety of music and arts festivals, making it a year-round destination for families. Asheville’s walkable downtown, filled with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, makes it a fun place for visitors to explore during any festival. For families, the vibrant music and art scene provides an exciting and creative atmosphere, especially for those interested in supporting local talent.
Bar Harbor, Maine – Acadia Night Sky Festival
Bar Harbor’s Acadia Night Sky Festival, held each September, celebrates the beauty of the night sky and the wonders of the universe. Families can participate in stargazing events, guided hikes, and astronomy talks led by experts in the field. The clear skies of Acadia National Park make it an ideal location for observing stars, planets, and other celestial wonders.
Beyond the festival, Bar Harbor offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking in Acadia National Park, wildlife watching, and exploring the charming downtown area. The combination of educational activities and the stunning natural surroundings makes Bar Harbor a fantastic destination for families looking to connect with nature and the stars.
Bristol, Rhode Island – Fourth of July Parade
Bristol, Rhode Island, is home to the longest-running Fourth of July parade in the country, drawing thousands of visitors every year. The parade is a time-honored tradition that has been celebrated since 1785, featuring marching bands, floats, and historical reenactments. Families can enjoy the vibrant parade and participate in a range of patriotic activities throughout the town.
The town’s historic charm adds to the holiday festivities, with families visiting local museums, enjoying outdoor concerts, and watching spectacular fireworks. Bristol’s Fourth of July celebration is a wonderful way for families to experience American history while enjoying classic summer fun. It’s a destination where community spirit and national pride come together in a memorable way.
Jackson, Wyoming – Old West Days
Every Memorial Day weekend, Jackson, Wyoming, celebrates Old West Days, a festival that honors the town’s cowboy heritage. The event features rodeos, cowboy parades, and a variety of Western-themed activities that transport families to the time of the American frontier. Visitors can watch skilled cowboys in action, enjoy live country music, and even participate in fun family activities like gold panning.
Jackson’s beautiful setting, surrounded by the Teton Mountains, adds to the festival’s appeal, offering opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, wildlife viewing, and rafting. The town’s Old West Days celebrate the rich history of the area, making it a unique and exciting destination for families interested in American history and outdoor activities.
Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin – Road America 4th of July Weekend
Elkhart Lake comes alive every July with the Road America 4th of July Weekend, featuring motorsport events and thrilling races at one of the nation’s premier road racing tracks. Families can enjoy the excitement of watching high-speed races, taking in the festive atmosphere, and participating in the various family-friendly activities available. With a packed schedule of events, there’s something for everyone, from kids’ races to live entertainment.
Beyond the races, Elkhart Lake offers plenty of scenic beauty with its charming lakeside setting. Families can relax by the water, take a boat ride, or explore nearby nature trails. The combination of motorsports, outdoor fun, and beautiful surroundings makes Elkhart Lake a fantastic destination for families during this exciting weekend.
Telluride, Colorado – Telluride Bluegrass Festival
Telluride, a picturesque mountain town, hosts the Telluride Bluegrass Festival each June, bringing bluegrass fans together for a weekend of music in the stunning San Juan Mountains. The festival features top bluegrass bands, jam sessions, and workshops that families can enjoy together. Children can participate in kid-friendly activities, while parents can relax and listen to live performances.
Telluride’s outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, make it a year-round destination, but during the Bluegrass Festival, the town truly comes alive. The festival’s laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking setting create a family-friendly environment where everyone can appreciate music and nature. It’s a perfect getaway for those who enjoy both live music and outdoor adventures.
Santa Fe, New Mexico – Santa Fe Indian Market
Every August, Santa Fe hosts the Santa Fe Indian Market, the largest and most prestigious Native American arts market in the country. The event features over 1,000 artists showcasing traditional and contemporary Native American art, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles. Families can explore the art, meet the artists, and participate in cultural workshops that highlight Native traditions.
Beyond the market, Santa Fe offers a rich cultural experience, with museums, galleries, and historic sites to explore. The town’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its unique blend of Native American and Southwestern cultures, makes it an exciting destination for families interested in art and history. The Santa Fe Indian Market is a great way for families to engage with Native American culture and learn through interactive experiences.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.