The weather is cooling down and the leaves are starting to change colours — and today marks the official start of Fall! But just because school is in session doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the adventures. For those of you who have been bit by the travel bug (like us), we’ve curated a list of five international fall festivals to attend this year.
Oktoberfest
September 21-October 6 in Munich, Germany
Oktoberfest, which started in 1810, is the largest beer festival in the world — over six million people attend each year! Fun fact: only breweries who adhere to the German Beer Purity Law can produce and sell Oktoberfest beer, and right now there are six breweries that meet the requirements. Highlights of this weeks-long festival include a parade, beer barrel tapping, traditional folk concerts, and LOTS of costumes.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
October 6-13 in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Have you ever seen hundreds of hot air balloons dotting the early morning sky? If not, then you can’t miss the Mass Ascension, a group launch of every participating balloon at sunrise on the first day of this New Mexican fiesta. When you’re sick of staring at the sky, head over to the Chainsaw Carving Exhibition to see some incredible wooden sculptures. And if you can’t make it in person, don’t worry — all 14 main balloon events will be live streamed on Facebook and YouTube.
Alba Truffle Festival
October 5-November 24 in Piedmont, Italy
Calling all foodies! Every weekend from October through November, gourmands from across the world head to Langhe, in the heart of the Italian countryside, for a series of truffle celebrations. One of the world’s most expensive foods, Alba white truffles can sell for nearly $200 per ounce! Festival events include a world market, cooking shows and sensory analysis panels — plus a donkey race, concerts and more.
Diwali
October 27 across South Asia
Diwali is India’s Festival of Lights, running for five days during the holy month of Kartik. This family-friendly festival celebrates Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and wealth. Each day of the festival has its own significance and associated rituals, from purchasing gold as a celebration of wealth to cleaning the house as a symbol of purification. On the third day, candles and lamps are lit throughout the home and fireworks are set off in the streets.
Dia de los Muertos
October 31-November 2 across Mexico
Dia de los Muertos is not Mexican Halloween, and it’s not a solemn holiday, either. Rather than mourn the dead, this two-day festival is about celebrating deceased friends and family. Traditions vary by country, but families are encouraged to decorate alters with marigolds and offer food and drink to their departed loved ones. Calaveras, or sugar skulls, are one of this holiday’s most recognizable figures — and they’re often drawn with a smile to indicate laughing at death itself!