Embarking on a journey to immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities around the world is an exciting experience!
From the lively streets of Thailand’s Songkran to the captivating lantern-lit alleys of Vietnam’s Hoi An, each festival offers a unique cultural experience worth exploring.
As you plan your adventures for 2024/25, it’s crucial to ensure you organise well for your trip, starting with obtaining the necessary visa.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the application process for the visas that are required to attend some of the top 10 festivals globally, ensuring you’re well-prepared to experience these unforgettable celebrations.
So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey filled with music, dance, culinary delights, and cultural immersion!
1. Songkran, Thailand Festival
Where? Thailand
When? 13, 14 and 15 April
Best time to travel to Thailand? From November to early April
Planning to travel to Thailand? Why not do so for Songkran! A festival in Thailand celebrating the Thai New Year.
The Thai New Year is one of the most popular events in Thailand.
One of the main features of Songkran is water, as people engage in friendly water fights on the streets.
The reason water is important in Songkran is because it symbolises washing away the past year’s misfortunes and sins and welcoming the new year with a fresh start.
So if you are planning to attend this festival, prepare to be soaked as there will be containers of water and water guns drenching anyone nearby.
The festival has a joyful and festive atmosphere, with people donning colourful traditional clothing, engaging in cultural performances, and enjoying special foods.
Obtaining a visa for Thailand
Maybe you are asking yourself ‘Do I need a Thai visa to visit?’. Well, to enter Thailand for tourism you will most likely need a visa.
However, there is a visa exemption rule which means that if you are from one of the 64 countries outlined, you won’t need a visa to go on a short tourist trip to Thailand.
You can find these countries below:
Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria
Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei
Cambodia, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary
Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy
Japan, Korea, Kuwait
Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg
Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, Monaco, Mongolia
Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman
Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar
Russia, San Marino, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam
So unless you are from one of these countries you will most likely need a visa to go on a trip to Thailand.
Read also:
Do You Need a Visa for Thailand?
How can I apply for the Thailand Tourist Visa?
The Thai Tourist Visa is ideal for a tourist trip to Thailand.
You can apply for a visa to Thailand yourself through the government website or you can use a visa service like Visa First who can do it for you.
To apply for the Thai Tourist Visa with Visa First, you can start by checking your eligibility, then creating an account and starting the visa application.
You will need to provide the required documents and pay the fees.
After applying, you’ll need to wait for your visa to be processed and approved.
At Visa First, one of our visa agents will guide you throughout the entire application process with ease and we will keep you up to date with the progress of your visa.
Apply for Thailand Tourist Visa
2. Chinese New Year’s Festival
Where? China
When? Chinese New Year date differs every year as it follows the lunar calendar. The exact date is determined by the new moon that falls between these dates. Generally, it falls between mid-January to February 20th on the Gregorian calendar
Best time to travel to China? Spring or Autumn
The Chinese New Year is one of the most significant celebrations in Chinese culture, marking the beginning of the lunar new year.
It’s celebrated with great excitement across China and in various Chinese communities around the world.
Major festivities take place in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, where streets are adorned with vibrant decorations, dragon and lion dances fill the air with energy, families gather for elaborate feasts, and fireworks light up the sky.
It’s a time for reunion, reflection on the past year, and setting intentions for the year ahead, making it a truly memorable and culturally enriching experience for visitors.
Read also:
How to Secure Your China Tourist Visa for a Memorable Chinese New Year?
Obtaining a visa for China
Most people who would like to travel to China will need a Tourist Visa for China.
Typically, all you need to be eligible for the China Tourist Visa is a valid passport and a blank visa page.
At Visa First, we can help you obtain your Chinese Tourist Visa.
To check if you’re eligible, you can first use our eligibility checker.
If you’re eligible for the Chinese Tourist Visa, you can start by creating an account with us and start the visa application process.
Once you have filled out the required details, and added the required documents, we will take care of the rest!
Please note that as of 14 March 2024, if you plan to travel to China for tourism, you can do so visa-free if you stay for no longer than 15 days and are from one of the following countries:
Austria
Belgium
Hungary
Ireland
Luxembourg
Switzerland
Apply for your China Tourist Visa!
3. Harbin Ice Festival
Where? Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
When? December 20, 2024 to mid-February of 2025.
On the topic of China, there is also the popular Harbin Ice Festival.
The Harbin Ice Festival in China is a spectacular event where artists create amazing sculptures out of ice and snow.
It’s held every year and attracts millions of people from all over the world.
The festival turns Harbin into a magical ice wonderland, with huge ice castles, colorful sculptures, and beautiful ice lanterns lighting up the night sky.
Visitors can enjoy seeing the stunning ice artworks, take part in fun activities, and watch exciting performances.
It’s a fantastic experience that you won’t forget and definitely one of the top festivals to attend!
Apply for your China Tourist Visa!
4. Cappadox, Turkey Festival
Where? Cappadocia, Turkey
When? The dates can vary year on year. In 2024, the dates are 23 to 26 May
Best time to travel to Turkey? This will depend on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Summertime is peak season and also has the hottest temperatures. For fewer crowds and milder temperatures, you can consider visiting during Spring or Autumn
Travel to Turkey and discover the magic of Cappadox Festival, set in the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey.
The festival features live music, art, food events, outdoor fun, and wellness activities for a one-of-a-kind experience.
From yoga sessions in scenic valleys to concerts in ancient cave churches, there’s something for everyone.
Explore outdoor galleries, join discussions on wellness, and soak in the beauty of Cappadocia’s unique scenery.
The Cappadox Festival offers an unforgettable adventure for all.
Fun fact, the city where the festival is held, Cappadocia, is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Obtaining a visa for Turkey
Do you need a visa to travel to Turkey, you may ask? Whether or not you need a visa to visit Turkey depends on your personal circumstances.
Currently, there are 78 visa-exempt countries, meaning that if you are from one of those countries, you will not need a visa for your time in Turkey. In this case, you can stay for three months maximum within 6 months.
However, if you are from one of the following countries you can apply for a Turkish eVisa. This visa will allow you to stay in Turkey for up to 90 (or 30 days for some countries) within a period of 180 days.
The countries are as follows:
Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Australia, Austria
Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belgium
Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus
Dominica, Dominican Republic, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Grenada, Haiti
Indonesia, Ireland, Jamaica
Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico
Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal
Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Suriname
Taiwan, United States, Norway
Read also:
Who is eligible for the Turkey eVisa? What are the Turkey eVisa application requirements?
You will also need a Turkey eVisa if you are from one of the following countries and would like to visit for up to 30 days.
Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola
Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi
Cambodia, Cameroon, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros
Ivory Coast, Djibouti, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia
Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau
India, Iraq, Kenya
Lesotho, Liberia, Libya
Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique
Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria
Pakistan, Palestine, Philippines
Republic of the Congo, Rwanda
Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Switzerland
Tanzania, Togo
Uganda, Vanuatu, Vietnam
Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Ready to apply for your Turkey eVisa?
You can start by checking if you are eligible for the Turkey eVisa with our Visa First eligibility checker.
Then you can create an online account with us, fill out our quick application form, provide the correct documents, pay the fees and we will take it from there.
Apply for your Turkish eVisa today!
5. Indian Independence Day
Where? Throughout India, with the main event being held in the capital city, New Delhi
When? 15 August every year
Best time to travel to India? October to March. However, note that the temperatures throughout India can vary depending on where you visit
Travel to India for one of the most significant festivals in India’s calendar, Indian Independence Day. It marks India’s liberation from British rule in 1947.
From the bustling cities to the remote villages, Indians come together to pay homage to their motherland with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, and fiery speeches.
You’ll also see cars, clothes, and household items decorated with the Indian national flag.
Moreover, these festivals provide an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Indian culture, witness traditional practices, taste delicious cuisine, and interact with locals.
Obtaining a visa for India
To go to India for a short tourist visit you can apply for either the India Tourist Visa or the India eVisa. You can apply for either visa with Visa First.
Although both the tourist visa and the eVisa can be used for tourist purposes, there are some differences
The traditional tourist visa for India typically requires applicants to visit an Indian embassy in person whereas, the eVisa for India can be applied for online.
The Indian eVisa processing time takes around a week, whereas the Indian Tourist Visa can take around two weeks.
You can start to apply for either visa with Visa First by:
Checking your eligibility with our eligibility checker
Creating an account
Starting the Indian visa application form
6. Vegetarian Thailand Festival
Where? Phuket, Thailand
When? The dates change every month based on the ninth lunar month of the Chinese New Year which is between September and October each year
The annual Vegetarian Festival in Phuket Thailand, offers a unique and culturally rich experience for travellers who want to immerse themselves in local traditions.
During the festival, participants abstain from consuming meat and animal products.
Visitors can witness awe-inspiring rituals such as firewalking, body piercing, and acts of self-mortification, symbolising the devotees’ commitment to their beliefs.
You’ll find vegetarian culinary delights at the festival, from traditional Thai dishes to all sorts of plant-based creations.
If you are intrigued by cultural immersion, spiritual ceremonies, and unique culinary experiences, the Vegetarian Festival is for you!
Apply for your Thailand Tourist Visa!
7. Hoi An Lantern, Vietnam Festival
Where? Hoi An, Vietnam
When? 14th day of every lunar month
Best time to travel to Vietnam? This depends on your preferences regarding weather, crowds, and activities. If you prefer dry and sunny weather and don’t mind the crowds, the dry season is ideal (November to April). Otherwise, you can travel during the rainy season (May to October) which can also be great for exploring and relaxing
You can travel to Vietnam during the Hoi An Lantern Festival, which is a magical event not to be missed.
This festival lights up the historic town of Hoi An with thousands of beautiful lanterns.
People gather to release lanterns onto the river, bringing good luck and happiness.
The streets come alive with music and delicious smells from street food stalls.
It’s a must-see for anyone wanting to experience Vietnam’s culture and traditions.
Obtaining a visa for Vietnam
To visit Vietnam for the Hoi An Lantern Festival, you can apply for the Vietnam eVisa or, if you have no more blank pages in your passport, you can apply for the Vietnamese Loose Leaf Visa.
Ready to apply for your tourist visa to Vietnam? At Visa First, we’ll make it easy.
8. The Melbourne Festival
Where? Melbourne, Australia
When? It can vary from year to year. For 2024 it’s on 14 and 15 September
Best time to travel to Australia? Spring and Autumn
The Melbourne Festival is one of Australia’s top cultural events, drawing visitors worldwide to the vibrant city of Melbourne.
Showcasing a mix of music, theatre, dance, and visual arts, it offers something for everyone.
From modern performances to classic favourites, there’s always something exciting happening at venues across the city.
The festival buzzes with creativity and excitement, making it a must-see for anyone looking to experience Melbourne’s artistic scene.
Obtaining a visa for Australia
At Visa First, we offer two different types of visas for Australia that are for visiting purposes. These include the Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) and the 651 visa.
The Australian ETA is available for citizens of countries in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. Whereas, the 651 Australian eVisitor Visa is available for primarily European countries.
The way to apply for these visas with Visa First is similar to our general process of applying for a visa.
Once you know whether you are eligible or not, you can create an online account with us. Fill out the application form, provide the required documents and pay the fees, and we will take it from there.
9. Diwali
Where? India (also in Sri Lanka)
When? In both India and Sri Lanka Diwali typically falls between October and November, depending on the Hindu lunar calendar
Depending on whether you go to Sri Lanka or India for Diwali, you may encounter some differences.
Some things that may differ include:
Traditions and customs
Cuisine
Duration
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, stands as one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in the world, offering a spectacle of light, colour, and festivity.
Originating in the Indian subcontinent, Diwali holds immense cultural and religious significance for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists alike, marking the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
Diwali brings communities together in joyous celebrations filled with fireworks, rituals, and feasts.
Families exchange gifts, share sweets, and offer prayers to deities, symbolizing the renewal of hope, prosperity, and happiness for the year ahead.
Diwali undoubtedly ranks among the best festivals to immerse yourself in the vibrant Indian and South Asian traditions.
Obtaining a visa for India
As mentioned above, you can visit India with the India Tourist Visa or the India eVisa.
At Visa First, we can help you apply for either of these.
Start your Indian visa application online!
Obtaining a visa for Sri Lanka
One of the ways you can visit Sri Lanka is by obtaining an eVisa. With the eVisa, the application is online and you don’t need to visit a consulate or embassy in person.
To obtain a Sri Lankan eVisa with Visa First, you can follow these steps:
Check your eligibility with our Visa First eligibility checker
Create an online account
Start the application process
Provide the required documents and pay the fees
We take care of the rest and contact you once there are any updates
Apply for your Sri Lanka eVisa!
10. Mevlana Festival
Where? Konya, Turkey
When? Generally takes place around the same time each year, specifically around 17 December, the exact dates can vary slightly based on the lunar calendar
The Mevlana Festival in Konya, celebrates mysticism and poetry, attracting pilgrims and admirers worldwide.
It’s an annual event honouring the life and teachings of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, a renowned 13th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic.
Lasting several days, the festival features spiritual rituals, music performances, and poetry readings.
Participants immerse themselves in Sufi music and whirling dervish dances that symbolize spiritual union with the divine.
Obtaining a visa for Turkey
As mentioned above, you may or may not need a visa for Turkey depending on the country you are from.
If you require a visa, you can check your eligibility using our online eligibility checker.
Then you can apply for your Turkey eVisa through your Visa First account.
You will need to fill out the online application form, provide the correct documents and pay the required fees. Our Visa First team will guide you through the entire process.
In summary, some of these festivals, such as Songkran in Thailand, Chinese New Year, and Diwali in India, are among the most renowned cultural celebrations globally.
Additionally, events like the Harbin Ice Festival in China and the Melbourne Festival in Australia attract millions of visitors annually and are highly regarded for their artistic and cultural significance.
While attending some of these festivals promises unforgettable cultural experiences, it’s essential to secure your visa.
Each festival, from Thailand’s Songkran to Turkey’s Mevlana Festival, requires specific visa arrangements.
Whether it’s securing a Thai Tourist Visa for Songkran or an Indian eVisa for Diwali, understanding and fulfilling visa requirements ahead of time is crucial.
With proper planning and assistance from Visa First, you can enjoy a seamless journey to securing your visa and immersing yourself in these vibrant celebrations.
So, get ready to pack your bags and embark on an extraordinary adventure to these incredible festivals around the globe!
Ready to apply for your visa?
At Visa First, we can help you obtain your visa by guiding you throughout the entire application process.
We will ensure all your documents are accurate and we’ll increase your chances of a successful outcome.
We’ve been in the business for over 20 years helping people secure their visas worldwide, so rest assured, you’re in safe hands.
Start your adventure today with Visa First!
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