What are the 10 must-see cultural festivals in the world in 2024 ? Where will you be going this year if you're passionate about music, cinema, art or photography? Each festival is a unique celebration of creativity and community. Whether you're a music lover, film buff, art enthusiast or globetrotter, there's bound to be a festival to awaken your senses and enrich your spirit! Here's our selection of 2024 cultural festivals around the world!
1. Cultural Festivals 2024: Montreux Jazz Festival, Switzerland
The Montreux Jazz Festival is one of the world's most renowned jazz festivals. This year, it takes place from July 5 to 20, 2024 in Montreux, Switzerland. The artists who have answered the call are Herbie Hancock, Diana Krall and Quincy Jones!
Experience open-air concerts on the shores of Lake Geneva and savor intimate jam sessions. The quality of the artists and the enchanting setting make this festival an enchantment.
How to get there?
Montreux is easily accessible by train from Geneva and Zurich. Special shuttle buses are also available during the festival.
2. Cannes Film Festival, France
The Cannes Film Festival is the world's most prestigious film festival. It takes place from May 14 to 25, 2024 in Cannes, France. It's a chance for the world's greatest directors and actors to meet and appreciate the work of their peers.
World-premiere film screenings punctuate the ascent of the steps.
Why shouldn't you miss it? Because it's the place to be to discover the best films before anyone else!
How do I get to the Cannes Film Festival?
By plane via Nice Côte d'Azur airport, by train or by car - it's all possible! Shuttle buses and cabs are also available to take you into town.
3. Coachella, USA, one of the top 10 cultural festivals 2024 in the World
Coachella is a music and arts festival held in the Californian desert, from April 12 to 14 and April 12 to 21, 2024. More precisely, it takes place in Indio, California, U.S.A. The festival takes place over two three-day weekends, and allows festival-goers to see the biggest stars in music such as Justice, Sabrina Carpenter, Ice Spice, Blur, J Balvin, Le Sserafim, Lil Uzi Vert, Lana Del Rey, Billie Eilish, and Shakira. It's an exceptional musical experience with an eclectic, international line-up! Dreamlike backdrops, giant art installations and a truly unique atmosphere resonate in this legendary venue! Come and experience it for yourself, because it doesn't get any better than this!
How do I get to Coachella?
The nearest airport is Palm Springs. Shuttles are available from Los Angeles and San Diego.
4. Venice Biennale, Italy
The Venice Biennale is a world-renowned contemporary art exhibition. It runs from April 20 to November 24, 2024 in Venice, Italy.
International contemporary artists exhibit their work. Exhibitions reside in various pavilions and historic sites throughout Venice. Discover the latest trends in contemporary art in this magnificent setting!
How to get there
To get to Venice, you can choose between plane, train or car. Vaporettos and river cabs make it easy to get around the city.
5. Burning Man, USA
Burning Man is an arts and culture festival held in the desert at Black Rock Desert, Nevada, USA from August 25 to September 2, 2024. Artists and performers from all walks of life come together to create ephemeral works of art in complete freedom. It's in this city that exists for just one week that you'll enjoy a uniquely transformative experience dedicated to art, self-expression and community.
How do I get to Burning Man?
Reno is the nearest city with an airport. Shuttle and carpool services are available to get to the site.
6. Lollapalooza, Paris
Lollapalooza is a multi-genre music festival famous for its international headliners. It was due to be held from August 1 to 04, 2024 at theHippodrome de Longchamp, but it turns out that this year it's been cancelled due to the Olympic Games being held at the same time in Paris. Join stars like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Weeknd and Lana Del Rey next year in 2025! The atmosphere is electric, and the setting is lush and green! It's a unique opportunity to witness unforgettable performances in the City of Light.
How to get there?
Paris is accessible by plane, train and car. Shuttle buses and the Paris metro make it easy to reach the site.
Book your tickets for Lollapalooza here!
7. Cultural Festivals 2024: Tomorrowland, Belgium
Tomorrowland is the world's biggest electronic music festival. Come and experience it from July 19 to 21 and July 26 to 28, 2024 in Boom, Belgium. Stars include David Guetta, Martin Garrix and Armin van Buuren!
This global event takes place in a fairytale setting, and the production is spectacular!
Why shouldn't you miss it? Because this is the festival par excellence for dancing to the rhythm of the world's best DJs in a magical setting!
How do I get to Tomorrowland?
Brussels airport is the nearest airport. Shuttles and special trains are available to get you to Boom.
8. La Fête de la Musique one of the world's top 10 cultural festivals 2024
La Fête de la Musique is a worldwide musical celebration held every year on June 21. It takes place in over 120 countries around the world! Local and international artists perform in the streets and on the most beautiful stages. It's an incredible gathering where everyone can express themselves, play, perform and dance! The free concerts and performances take place mainly on the streets of every city, in bars and squares. Get out of the house and happily mingle with the crowds to listen to music in all its forms in a festive atmosphere.
How to get there?
The Fête de la Musique takes place in the streets and squares of participating towns, and is open to all.
9. Rio Festival, Brazil
Among the 10 must-see cultural festivals in the world in 2024, the Rio Festival, also known as the Rio Carnival, holds a prime position! It's the world's biggest carnival. This year, come and dance the samba from February 9 to 17 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil! Spectacular parades and wild parties follow one another in a feverish rhythm
with samba schools and carnival artists. Get your tickets and experience the magic and madness of Brazilian carnival! The next edition is scheduled to take place between February 28 and March 8, 2025, so don't miss out!
How to get there:
Rio de Janeiro's international airport is well served. Buses and cabs are available to reach the carnival sites.
10. Cultural Festivals 2024: Glastonbury, UK
Glastonbury is the world's biggest outdoor music festival. It takes place from June 26 to 30, 2024 at Worthy Farm, Pilton, UK. Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar will all be there! Don't miss this legendary event!
How to get there?
Bristol airport is the nearest airport. Buses and trains run to Pilton.
How do I plan a festival?
Planning a festival but don't know where to start? Here's how to make it easy!
- Buy your tickets as soon as they go on sale to avoid disappointment. Opt for all-inclusive passes if available.
- Book your accommodationin advance, especially for popular festivals. Options include hotels, campsites and vacation rentals.
- Plan your transportation and check the festival's shuttle or car-sharing options.
- Pack appropriate clothing, sunscreen, earplugs and hydration. Be prepared for all weather conditions and check out the essential festival checklist !
What is a cultural festival?
A cultural festival is an event organized to promote different forms of art and culture. These festive gatherings bring together artists, art lovers, music enthusiasts, film buffs, photographers and many others around a common theme or set of cultural traditions. Here are a few key elements that define a cultural festival:
- A cultural festival takes the form of a variety of musical performances, film screenings, art exhibitions, dance shows, plays and art installations. The diversity of art forms represented is often what makes these festivals so captivating!
- Many cultural festivals celebrate local or international traditions, providing a platform for traditional arts and customs that might otherwise be overlooked.
- These festivals often bring together the local community and visitors, creating a space for sharing and cultural discovery. Participants can interact with artists and craftspeople, attend workshops and take part in interactive cultural activities.
- They are showcases for creativity and artistic innovation.
- In addition to entertainment, cultural festivals often have an educational dimension, with lectures, discussions and workshops that enable participants to better understand and appreciate the arts and cultures represented.
France's celebrated Cannes Film Festival, for example, attracts directors, actors and cinephiles from all over the world. As does the Venice Biennale in Italy, which presents an open-air international exhibition of contemporary art.
What's the biggest festival in the world?
The world's biggest festival in terms of attendance is the Rio Carnival in Brazil, which attracts millions of participants every year. In terms of size and diversity, Burning Man in the Nevada desert is also notable for its size and cultural impact.
What are the best festivals in France?
Among the 10 must-see festivals in France for the summer of 2024, there's the unmissable Hellfest! And for a touch of culture, discover the 10 must-see cultural festivals in France in 2024!
Are you passionate about music, art, cinema or simply curious about discovering new cultures? The 10 must-see cultural festivals in the world in 2024 invite you to experience artistic and cultural diversity across the globe. Prepare your diary and start planning your travels to experience these intense moments!
To find out more about this year's not-to-be-missed festivals, consult Petit Futé's Festival News.
