7 Must-See Events Across the US

By Jennifer A.. Jul 25, 2024

You’ve no doubt heard of iconic U.S. festivals, like Mardi Gras and Coachella - but have you ever considered actually attending one?

We’ve gathered details for seven of the most popular celebrations across the United States to get your imagination flowing.

1. Mardi Gras

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Where: New Orleans, Louisiana

When: Usually March or April. Celebrations begin about two weeks before the start of Lent and culminate on Fat Tuesday, 47 days before Easter. Mardi Gras dates change every year because Easter changes every year.

What to Expect: Everyone should experience this raucous New Orleans celebration once in their life. Here’s your chance to dress in a glitzy costume, listen to jazz music, and catch beads thrown from elaborate parade floats with 1.5 million of your closest friends. Expect revelry, king cake, and lots of booze.

2. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

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Where: Indio, California

When: Two weekends every April

What to Expect: Here’s your opportunity to don a hat and pretend you’re a celebrity at one of the largest music festivals in the world. This iconic festival in the desert features popular musical artists, as well as art installations. If you want the full experience, camp on-site. Tickets sell out fast, so buy yours early.

3. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

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Where: Sturgis, South Dakota

When: Annually in early August

What to Expect: This massive rally for motorcycle enthusiasts gives you the perfect excuse to embrace your inner bad boy (or girl). A ticket gets you access to concerts, races, and bike shows featuring lots and lots of Harleys. You’ll want to make lodging reservations up to a year in advance for this one.

4. Burning Man

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Where: Black Rock Desert, Nevada

When: Weeklong event around Labor Day weekend (late August or early September)

What to Expect: This unique event in the desert centers on 10 key principles: radical inclusion, gifting, decommodification, radical self-reliance, radical self-expression, communal effort, civic responsibility, leaving no trace, participation, and immediacy. Prepare ahead by bringing dust masks, water, a shade structure, and gifts for your fellow sojourners.

5. South by Southwest (SXSW)

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Where: Austin, Texas

When: Annually in March

What to Expect: SXSW swarms the capital city of Texas every year, with an eclectic collection of music, films, media, and conferences. We recommend getting your badge early to guarantee access to your favorite events. Use the official SXSW app to plan your day effectively and avoid any overwhelm. And don’t forget to grab a drink and do your part to help keep Austin weird.

6. Sundance Film Festival

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Where: Park City, Utah

When: Annually in January

What to Expect: Movie buffs, this one’s for you! What better way to celebrate your love of cinema than by attending one of the largest independent film festivals in the United States. Nestled in the snow-covered mountains of Utah, festival attendees can screen new films from both American and international filmmakers. Purchase your ticket package early to lock in your seat at the most popular screenings. Bundle up and don’t forget the popcorn!

7. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

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Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico

When: Nine-day event in early October

What to Expect: Imagine the entire horizon filled with 500 colorful hot-air balloons, gliding over the Sandia Mountains. It’s no wonder that this is the most photographed event in the world! We recommend arriving early to view the balloons rising en masse. You can even ride in a balloon yourself if you’re willing to brave the heights. Temperatures fluctuate, so dress in layers, and get ready for one of the most illuminating experiences of your life.

So, what are you waiting for? Select your favorite festival, invite a few friends, and get to planning! You might just create some unforgettable memories that will shock and impress your kids one day.