25 Amazing November Festivals to Explore in 2025

November is one of the most exciting months for culture lovers. From grand music festivals to traditional celebrations, this month brings a mix of rhythm, art, and tradition from every corner of the world. Here are 25 major music and cultural events you can look forward to in November 2025.

1. Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) – Mexico

When: November 1–2
A colorful celebration that honors departed loved ones. Families decorate altars with flowers, candles, and sugar skulls. Parades and street music bring life to the remembrance.

2. Iceland Airwaves – Reykjavik, Iceland

When: Early November
One of Europe’s coolest music festivals, featuring indie, electronic, and pop artists. Performances happen in clubs, cafes, and even churches across Reykjavik.

3. Pushkar Camel Fair – Rajasthan, India

When: Early November
A grand mix of culture, trade, and tradition. Thousands gather for camel races, folk music, and colorful markets. It’s one of India’s most photographed events.

4. Lucca Comics & Games – Italy

When: Late October to Early November
Europe’s largest pop culture festival dedicated to comics, cosplay, and gaming. Streets of Lucca turn into a fantasy world filled with costumes and live performances.

5. Melbourne Music Week – Australia

When: Mid-November
An annual celebration of Melbourne’s creative spirit. Local and international artists perform across the city’s famous music venues.

6. AFROPUNK Festival – Johannesburg, South Africa

When: Late November
A vibrant festival celebrating Black music, art, and culture. Expect fashion, performances, and strong messages of unity and self-expression.

7. Día de la Tradición – Argentina

When: November 10
A national celebration of Argentine heritage. People dress as gauchos, dance to folk music, and enjoy barbecues and horseback shows.

8. Istanbul Jazz Festival – Turkey (Fall Edition)

When: Early November
A gathering of talented jazz musicians from around the world. The event highlights Istanbul’s blend of Eastern and Western culture.

9. Thai Loy Krathong Festival – Thailand

When: Early November (Full Moon Day)
One of Thailand’s most beautiful festivals. People release floating lanterns and banana-leaf boats into rivers to thank the water goddess.

10. Contemporary Art Fair – Paris, France

When: Early to Mid-November
A major event for art lovers. Galleries and artists showcase contemporary works from all over the world.

11. World Music Expo (WOMEX) – Rotating Locations

When: Late October to Early November
An international networking event for music professionals. It features live performances, workshops, and film screenings celebrating world music.

12. Maui Ukulele Festival – Hawaii, USA

When: Early November
A joyful gathering of ukulele enthusiasts. The festival celebrates Hawaiian culture and the soulful sound of this tiny instrument.

13. Vienna Art Week – Austria

When: Mid-November
An inspiring week of exhibitions, talks, and performances. It focuses on art, architecture, and cultural innovation in Vienna’s historic venues.

14. Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival – Portugal

When: November 10–19
A blend of cinema, music, and art. It celebrates creative storytelling and brings together international directors, actors, and audiences.

15. Honolulu Marathon Music Festival – Hawaii, USA

When: Late November
A fun event with live performances leading up to the famous Honolulu Marathon. It combines fitness, community, and entertainment.

16. Meteora Music Festival – Greece

When: Mid-November
Set in the stunning rocky landscape of Meteora, this festival brings classical and folk musicians together. A peaceful and spiritual experience for attendees.

17. Dubai Design Week – UAE

When: Early to Mid-November
Celebrating innovation and art, this event showcases design exhibitions, installations, and creative workshops from global artists.

18. Singapore Writers Festival – Singapore

When: First Half of November
A literary celebration connecting authors, readers, and storytellers. It includes readings, workshops, and cultural performances.

19. Jazz Fest Berlin – Germany

When: Early November
One of the most respected jazz events in Europe. The festival features performances by both new talents and world-famous musicians.

20. Guangzhou International Light Festival – China

When: Whole Month of November
A breathtaking display of light art installations along the Pearl River. It combines technology, art, and cultural storytelling.

21. Santa Fe Indian Market Winter Showcase – New Mexico, USA

When: Late November
A special event highlighting Native American art, jewelry, and crafts. It’s a chance to experience Indigenous culture up close.

22. Festival de la Cultura Maya – Mérida, Mexico

When: Mid-November
A tribute to Mayan civilization. It includes lectures, dance, music, and exhibitions about the region’s ancient traditions.

23. Edinburgh Music Competition Festival – Scotland

When: Throughout November
A celebration of classical and contemporary music. Musicians of all ages perform across categories in a friendly, creative environment.

24. Seoul Lantern Festival – South Korea

When: November 1–17
Hundreds of colorful lanterns light up the Cheonggyecheon Stream. Each lantern tells a story inspired by Korean history and folklore.

25. Thanksgiving Weekend Parades and Music Shows – USA

When: Last Week of November
Cities like New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia host grand parades. Expect marching bands, live music, and spectacular floats marking the festive season.

Travel Tip

If you’re planning to attend any of these festivals, check local travel advisories and event schedules. Some festivals change dates each year based on the lunar calendar or regional customs. Booking early also helps you enjoy the experience without hassle.

Disclaimer

The details and dates listed in this article are for general informational purposes only. Readers are advised to confirm event schedules and local regulations before planning their visit.