Cherry blossom in Japan

Japan's most iconic and beautiful festival celebrates the blooming of cherry trees (sakura) in spring, typically between late March and early May.

The tradition includes picnicking under cherry blossom trees and enjoying the fleeting beauty with friends and family. Many temples and shrines hold special events during this season.

Pro tip: Try sakura mochi, an ice cake with cherry leaf during this time.

Java Jazz Festival in Indonesia

The Java Jazz Festival in Indonesia is one of the largest and most prestigious jazz festivals in the world, attracting a mix of top international and local jazz musicians.

Blending classic and contemporary jazz with influences from soul, funk, and R&B, Jakarta will celebrate the 20^th anniversary of the Java Jazz Festival at the end of May.

Pro tip: International headliners are a big draw; don't miss Indonesia's local vibrant jazz scene.

Vesak in Sri Lanka

Vesak is the most important Buddhist festival in Sri Lanka. With temple ceremonies that include prayers and meditations, the entire country lights up with colourful lanterns when the full moon arrives in May.

Experience the heartwarming tradition of 'Dansal', where people offer free food and drinks to strangers as an act of kindness. 

Pro tip: Take a stroll through the illuminated streets.

Eid celebrations in Doha

Marking the end of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr is a joyous festival filled with family feast, delicious treats, and dazzling fireworks.

At the beginning of summer, Eid al-Adha, the 'Festival of Sacrifice', brings heartfelt celebrations across the city. Doha comes alive with lights and decorations; families and friends gather for grand meals featuring traditional Qatari dishes.

Pro tip: Turn one holiday into two with our incredible Stopover Packages to Qatar.

Dragon Boat Festival in Vietnam

The vibrant celebrations known as Duanwu Festival in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and other Asian countries, usually take place in June.

The festival is famous for its thrilling and colourful dragon boat races, where teams paddle in unison to the beat of drums, competing to cross the finish line first.

Pro tip: During the festival, it is a beloved tradition to eat Zongzi, sticky rice dumplings.

Diwali - Festival of lights in India

Also known as 'Deepavali', Diwali is one of India’s most important festivals, celebrated by millions worldwide. It celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, and good over evil.

It usually falls in October and lasts five days, marking the start of a new year in the Hindu lunar calendar. The traditions include lighting diyas (oil lamps), creating Rangoli designs, praying, and exchanging gifts.

Pro tip: Visit local markets and temples in Jaipur during Diwali to soak up the festive vibe. 

New Year’s Eve in Australia

Watch the clock strike midnight in Sydney, a city known for its New Year’s Eve fireworks. Celebrations kick off at the harbour with local ceremonies, followed by a fantastic light show.

At 9pm, the festivities start building up to the grand display at midnight, where fireworks burst from the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and beyond.

Spring Festival in China

The Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is China's most important celebration between January and February. Streets light up with red lanterns, fireworks fill the sky, and people exchange hongbao, red envelopes for good luck.

One of the best places to experience the festival is Bejing, where temple fairs showcase traditional performances.

Pro tip: You will see lion and dragon dance shows all over the city.

Holi Festival in India

Holi, known as the "Festival of Colours", is one of India's most exciting and joyful celebrations. Held every spring, usually in March, Holi marks the arrival of warmer days.

People gather together in the streets to throw colourful powders, dance to lively music, and share festival treats like gujiya dumplings.

Pro tip: While Holi is celebrated across India, some of the best experiences can be found in Mathura and Vrindavan.