Bucket-list festivals from around the world

We LOVE a good party! And what's even better than a Friday night at Popworld? An all-out cultural explosion of colour, music, and epic vibes, of course! Some festivals around the world take things to a whole new level, turning entire cities into buzzing parties. So, grab your passport (and maybe a waterproof bag), because we’re about to dive into four of the most unmissable celebrations around the world. And we'll even tell you how to experience these epic Limited Edition moments for yourself!

 

 

From the world’s wildest water fight in Thailand to celebrating lives in the Día de los Muertos celebrations in Mexico. Party with the spirits in Mexico City, paint the town red (and every other colour) during Holi in Jaipur, samba till the sun comes up in Rio and soak up the energy in Chiang Mai.

 

 Songkran – Thailand’s Epic Water Fight

 

Forget your basic water fights in your back garden —Thailand takes water fights to a whole different level. Songkran takes place over the Thai New Year and it is an absolute must-do if you are planning a trip to Thailand in April. For three days in April, the streets become battlegrounds (but the fun kind), and everyone is in super high spirits. We’re talking buckets, hoses, full-on water cannons—the works, not just tiny water balloons like you are probably used to! The tradition of getting wet, wet, wet is all about cleansing away the past year’s bad luck and welcoming the new one with a fresh (and very soaked) start. That's something we can definitely get behind!

 

Chiang Mai and Bangkok are the ultimate hotspots for Songkran madness, and trust us, you won’t stay dry for long. Pack quick-dry clothes, waterproof everything, and prepare for the most refreshing (and chaotic) celebration of your life.

 

 

 

 

Holi – The Festival of Colours (India)

 

Imagine an entire country bursting into a rainbow-coloured party! Epic right? That’s Holi, baby! Celebrated across India, this Hindu festival marks the start of spring and the triumph of good over evil. But let’s be honest—it’s really just an excuse to go full paintball mode and dance your heart out, get those bollywood dance moves ready! It is 100% something you should consider adding to your bucket list, and it's really growing in popularity at the moment, so get in there asap.

 

Pro tip: Wear white (so you can see just how much colour you collect) and keep your phone in a ziplock bag unless you want it to be permanently tie-dyed. If this celebration is at the top of your bucket list, then stay tuned because something exciting is VERY soon! Sign up for our Holi mailing list to be the FIRST to hear about our Holi tour...you're not gonna want to miss it!

 

 

Día de los Muertos – Mexico’s Most Beautiful Tribute to Life

 

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) isn’t your average festival—it’s a celebration of life, love, and those who have passed. We've all cried at Coco and this is the festival which inspired the film! Mexico goes all out with marigold-covered altars, candle-lit parades, and streets lined with sugar skulls and incredible artwork. Families gather to honour their loved ones, sharing food, music, and stories that make this festival feel more alive than ever. It is an unmissable, beautiful celebration. If this celebration is at the top of your bucket list, then this is your sign to book now! Don't miss out on this epic experience this October!

 

The most magical places to experience it? Mexico City is next-level when it comes to Día de los Muertos celebrations. Expect epic parades, so much face paint, and some of the most breathtaking cultural traditions you’ll ever witness. Oh, and don’t forget to try pan de muerto (aka Dead Bread), it’s a sweet treat you won’t want to miss!

 

 

Rio Carnival – The Ultimate Party in Brazil

There are parties, and then there’s Rio Carnival—the biggest, most insane festival on the planet. Think Friday night popworld x1000 and much, much cooler! Think samba-fueled street parties, extravagant floats, and the wildest costumes you’ve ever seen. Taking place in the lead-up to Lent, this legendary Brazilian bash turns Rio de Janeiro into a 24/7 fiesta, with millions of people dancing through the streets. If this celebration is at the top of your bucket list, then BOOK NOW! Our first wave has sold out, and there are only a few spots left! DON'T MISS OUT ON THE PARTY OF THE YEARRRR!

 

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the energy of an entire city partying in perfect rhythm, this is it. Grab a caipirinha (a MUST in Brazil), join a bloco (street party), and dance until the sun comes up. Rio Carnival is bucket-list material, and trust us, you’ll never see anything quite like it again. Good vibes ALL around!