Though the summer’s calendar of celebrations may be drawing to a close, there’s no need for the festivities to stop. The fall is filled to the brim with charming events to inspire wanderlust, from the bright lights of Diwali to the colorful balloons of Albuquerque’s Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Here’s a roundup of five autumn festivals to visit in style this year!
1. Diwali
Also widely known as the ‘festival of lights’, Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness which makes it a fitting fiesta to kick off your autumn travels. Across India, cities celebrate the holiday with fireworks, paper lanterns, and twinkly lights. This ancient Hindu event is also celebrated in other global locations, from Australia to Fiji. Dogs are festooned with brightly hued marigold necklaces and families light candles and enjoy delicious treats, making it a feast for all senses.
2. Day of the Dead
Mexico’s Dia de los Muertos has grown in profile worldwide in recent years, celebrated between October 31st and November 2nd as a way to honor or pay tribute to the dead. You’ve probably seen the iconic sugar skulls, but during this time, families decorate graves of loved ones with personal tributes including the skulls as well as flowers and food. Revelers celebrate life and death with street markets, costumes, and dancing throughout the country. If you’ve got your sights set on an alternative to Halloween, dress up in a halloween costume like a skeleton or spooky clown costumes and join the festivities.
3. Alba Truffle Festival
Are you in search of a gourmet getaway this fall? Head to the hills of Alba, a village in the Italian Piedmont region, between October 7th and November 26th this year. You’ll be able to take part in the 87th Annual Alba White Truffle Fair, which showcases the exquisite white truffles found in this region. The hub of the festival is the market, laden with the glorious truffles as well as locally grown hazelnuts, chocolate creations, cured meat, liquors, wine, pasta and more. You may rub shoulders with a celebrity chef or two.
4. Moon Festival
China’s Mid-Autumn festival is also known as the Moon Festival because it takes place during the full moon’s arrival between September and October. During this time period, cities across the country are decorated with lively lantern displays, with lit-up dragons or floral arrangements floating down river. It’s a serene, beautiful sight particularly in idyllic rural areas of China, or you can book a penthouse suite in Hong Kong for the best views of the fireworks. You’ll also be able to enjoy the famous mooncakes which are chewy pastries filled with tempting bean paste.
5. Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Festival
New Mexico’s clear blue skies are dressed up with hundreds of hot air balloons each year during the month of October. The Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is an international event, drawing balloon lovers from all over the world. Soak in the southwestern culture as you sample local cuisine and admire the craftsmanship of these unique aircrafts soaring above you.
As you’re planning your next luxury getaway this fall, keep these festive events in mind for an unforgettable experience!
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