August is a month filled with vibrant celebrations across the world. Be it La Tomatina Festival in Spain, Burning Man Event in Nevada, United States or Friendship Day celebrated worldwide, there are many amazing festivals in August observed with fun and enthusiasm. In India, August is bursting with festivals that celebrate everything from freedom to music and the birth of Lord Krishna. Ready to know more about what the world is celebrating this month? Continue with this blog and find out some really cool and amazing events happening worldwide, including India, Italy, Philippines, and more.
15 Best Festivals in August 2025 You Must Know About
Whether you're looking to dance under the stars, explore a new country through its traditions or simply soak up the atmosphere of people coming together, there are plenty of festivals in August to attend and have a joyful experience. So, if you are planning for a vacation in August, then read this blog and discover all the lively festivities and make your plans accordingly. Let's first talk about some prominent festivals celebrated in August in India this year.
Festivals in August in India
From national holidays like Independence Day to festivals like Raksha Bandhan and Krishna Janmashtami, you will see a lot of festivals in India in the month of August. Here are a few important August month festivals in India 2025.
1. Independence Day
Independence Day in India is celebrated on August 15th every year with enthusiasm and pride. This day marks the end of British colonial rule in India in 1947, which had lasted for over 200 years. Independence Day is a national holiday marked by flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural events across the country. It is a public holiday, with government offices, schools and businesses closed for the day. This historic day reminds us of the sacrifices made by Indian freedom fighters to gain independence from Britishers. There is also a Kite Festival in Delhi on 15 August in which people fly kites from terraces of their shops and houses, filling the sky with colorful displays. All these vibrant celebrations make Independence Day one of the major festivals in India to attend.
Independence Day 2025 Date: 15th August
Where: Throughout the country
2. Krishna Janmashtami
It is also known as Krishnashtami, Janmashtami, or Gokulashtami. Krishna Janmashtami is a major Hindu festival in August in India celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, who is revered as the eighth avatar of the Lord Vishnu. It is the day when Lord Krishna descended to earth to restore dharma and fight against evil. Devotees mark this day with great devotion, remembering Krishna's life and moral teachings. Midnight celebrations like Krishna Leela and Dahi Haandi are held in many parts of India, especially Vrindavan and Mathura, which are the best places to visit in India. Also, many people make plans to travel to Vrindavan to experience the cultural vibes of this place on Janmashtami.
Krishna Janmashtami 2025 Date: August 16
Where: Vrindavan and Mathura
Suggested Read: Most Popular Festivals in July One Must Attend
3. Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Nehru Trophy Boat Race is an annual snake boat race held on Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha, Kerala, on the second Saturday of August. This festival is named after India's first prime minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. It is a significant cultural event for the region, attracting large crowds. Jawaharlal Nehru got so captivated by the snake boat races during his visit to Kerala in 1952 that he donated a silver snake boat-shaped trophy. Since then, the trophy is presented to the winners of the race, making it one of the major August festivals in India 2025. The race is a source of great pride for the villages of Kuttanad and they compete with their respective snake boats for the prestigious trophy. So, if you’re also planning to witness this vibrant festival, you can book our Kerala tour packages for the same.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2025 Date: August 30
Where: Alappuzha, Kerala
4. Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is a popular Indian festival in which a girl or a woman ties a sacred thread (Rakhi) on the wrist of her brother or whom she considers her brother. In return, brothers swear to protect and support their sisters. This is a popular and traditional Hindu festival in August that celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. Raksha Bandhan is primarily celebrated between siblings; however, it can also be observed among cousins, sisters-in-law, and other close relationships where there's a bond of love and protection. So, if you also treat someone like your brother, don't forget to tie Rakhi on his wrist on this pure festival in August.
Raksha Bandhan 2025 Date: August 8
Where: Throughout the country
Suggested Read: Vaisakhi (Baisakhi): Importance, History, Rituals, and Celebrations
5. Covelong Point Surf Yoga Music Festival
Covelong Point Surf Yoga Music Festival, also known as Covelong Point Festival is another festival celebrated in August in India. It is an annual event held in Kovalam (Covelong), Chennai that combines surfing, live music, fitness activities and a vibrant marketplace. Covelong Point Festival brings together the thrill of surfing and a beachside festival, attracting a diverse crowd of participants and spectators. Many surfing competitions are held, with a lineup of Indie musicians and brands performing throughout the festival. Additionally, you can slos attend the fitness activities like yoga, Silambam and dance classes during this fest. So, fitness lovers, are you ready to be a part of this exciting event? Browse through our various Chennai tour packages to experience the charm of this vibrant festival with your loved ones.
Covelong Point Surf Yoga Music Festival 2025 Date: August 23 to August 25
Where: Covelong Beach, Kovalam, Chennai
International Festivals in August 2025
As we've have discussed major festivals in August in India, now it's time to talk about the most important festivals in August celebrated in all countries around the world.
1. La Tomatina Festival
Have you thrown tomatoes at anyone? Or do you want to do the same? What if we say you can fulfill this wish of yours? With La Tomatina Festival, you are allowed to hurl tomatoes at one another. Don’t be surprised! Basically, La Tomatina is one of the major festivals celebrated in August in Buñol, Spain every year in which participants throw tomatoes at each other. La Tomatina takes place on the last Wednesday of August each year. It's a chaotic and fun event where thousands of people gather to throw overripe tomatoes at each other for about an hour. This unique festival is believed to have originated in 1945 during a street fight where participants started throwing tomatoes from a nearby market. Since then, it has become a major tourist attraction and a symbol of Spain. The festival attracts thousands of international participants, making Spain one of the best places to visit in August.
La Tomatina Festival 2025 Date: August 27
Where: Buñol, Spain
2. Edinburgh Festival Fringe
As the name suggests, Edinburgh Festival Fringe is one of the vibrant festivals in August 2025, taking place in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is the world's largest arts festival that welcomes artists and performers from all over the world each year. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025 will be held from 1st to 25th August 2025. Basically, the festival features artists and performers from many genres, including cabaret, comedy, dance, children's shows, and more. You can secure your seat for this festival by visiting the official website of Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Last year in 2024, it ran for 25 days, featuring 3,746 shows with more than 51,446 scheduled performances across 262 venues. The festival transforms Edinburgh into a vibrant hub of creativity, making it one of the best places to visit in the world, especially in the month of August.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025 Date: August 1 to August 25
Where: Edinburgh
Suggested Read: Explore These Haunted Places in Edinburgh, If You Dare!
3. Obon Festival
Obon (or Bon) Festival in Japan also lies on the top list of festivals in August. It is a major Buddhist festival and has been celebrated for more than 500 years. Obon Festival honors deceased ancestors and their spirits, hence known as the Festival of Souls. Celebrated for three days, the festival combines spiritualism with communal fun. It's a time when families welcome back the spirits of their deceased loved ones and show respect through various rituals and customs. The main belief to follow this old custom is that ancestral spirits return to the world of living to visit their families. Hence, in Buddhism, Obon Festival is celebrated by visiting graves, traditional dances (Bon Odori), lantern displays, and other festive activities.
Obon Festival 2025 Date: August 13 to August 15
Where: Japan (majorly Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka)
4. Friendship Day
Do you have any friends? Of course, you'll have it! This question was not intended to hurt you. In fact, our next listicle about which we will talk here is based on friendship and its significance. One of the most important festivals in August, Friendship Day, is dedicated to celebrating the special bond between friends. It's a day to strengthen bonds, express gratitude, and celebrate the joy and support that friendships bring. The United Nations officially recognized International Friendship Day to focus on how the bond of friendship can build bridges between different cultures and communities and bring people together. People often exchange gifts, cards, and messages to show their love and gratitude towards their friends.
Friendship Day 2025 Date: August 3
Where: Worldwide
Suggested Read: Incredible Places to Visit in February in the World
5. Toronto Caribbean Carnival
Toronto Caribbean Carnival is the largest cultural celebration held annually in Toronto. It was formerly known as ‘Caribana’ and is an important festival in August 2025 in North America. Basically, this vibrant festival celebrates Caribbean music, cuisine, and traditions to showcase and share Caribbean culture with the people of Toronto and beyond. The main aim of Toronto Caribbean Carnival is to bring people together from diverse backgrounds, promoting social inclusion and the local economy. Started in 1967, this is currently the largest cultural fest in North America, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe. The festival hosts a variety of events, including the Grand Parade, Carnival Ball, Carnival Music Festival, and other major festivities.
Toronto Caribbean Carnival 2025 Date: July 31 to August 4
Where: Toronto, Ontario
6. Rothenburg Wine Festival
Rothenburg Wine Festival, also known as the "Rothenburger Weindorf", is celebrated in the mid of August in Germany every year. It is the perfect way to bid adieu to summer and say hello to the wine season in the village of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This wine festival is an electrifying event where local wine growers showcase their finest Franconian wines, along with regional culinary specialties. Rothenburg Wine Festival is one of the major festivals in Germany in August that provides a wonderful chance for visitors to experience the winemaking heritage. The festival attracts many visitors from both near and far, making Rothenburg one of the most interesting places to visit in Germany, especially in August.
Rothenburg Wine Festival 2025 Date: August 13 to August 17
Where: Green Market (Grüner Markt) and Kirchplatz (Church Square), Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Germany: The Best Tailored To-Do List For Your Euro Trip
7. Kadayawan Festival
Kadayawan Festival is celebrated annually in the third week of August in Davao City, Philippines. It is an important August festival in the Philippines that brings people of Davos together to celebrate their unique traditions and arts. Kadayawan Festival highlights the diverse cultures of 11 ethnolinguistic tribes in Davao, including the Lumad and Moro groups. This week-long event includes "Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan" (street dancing competition), "Pamulak sa Dalan" (floral float parade), and various cultural performances. If you're also thinking of attending this major festival in August, book our Philippines tour packages and embrace the local culture and traditions of the country.
Kadayawan Festival 2025 Date: August 8 to August 17
Where: Davao City, Philippines
8. Ferragosto
Ferragosto is an important festival in Italy in August celebrated all over the country. Observed on 15 August every year, it is a public holiday with offices, businesses and banks remaining closed. Ferragosto traces its roots back to the ancient Roman traditions and a significant Catholic observance. Even, many offices close for at least a week or some for the whole month. Isn't it extraordinary? Think, how lucky the people of Italy are? Talking about Ferragosto, the festival combines the Roman festival of Feriae Augusti with the Catholic Feast of the Assumption of Mary. This Roman Festival was instituted by Emperor Augustus in 18 BC to rest and celebrate after the summer harvest. Today, it's a day to relax, take a break from work, enjoy summer, and often take short trips. There are many amazing places to visit in Italy, including Rome, Venice, and Milan, where you can spend your holiday during Ferragosto.
Ferragosto 2025 Date: August 15
Where: Throughout Italy
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Italy For A Kickass Experience
9. Burning Man
Burning Man is a festival celebrated for 9 days in Nevada, United States every year. This festival is mainly based on community participation. The Burning Man event is focused on art, community, self-expression and self-reliance, all promoting shared values and mutual support. Each summer, millions of people gather to create a temporary city, called Black Rock. Basically, it is a temporary metropolis created each year in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada for the Burning Man festival. The theme for Burning Man 2025 is based on 'Tomorrow Today'. In short, Burning Man is a major festival in America in August that focuses on radical inclusion, gifting and leaving no trace. Are you thinking of attending this desert festival? If yes, then book your tickets through its official website as soon as possible.
Burning Man 2025 Date: August 24 to September 1
Where: Black Rock City, Nevada, United States
Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in USA to Entice your Wanderlust
10. Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza is one of the largest music festivals in the world, held at Chicago, United States. It is known for its diverse music lineup, immersive festival experience, and impact on the music industry. Lollapalooza started as a farewell tour for Jane's Addiction leader Perry Farrell in the 1990s and has evolved as a major festival in August since then. It showcases a wide range of musical genres, from rock and hip-hop to electronic and pop, often featuring both established and emerging artists. There are many other things to do at Lollapalooza, including art installations, epic performances, great food, and unlimited fun. Hurry up! Tickets are on sale! Secure your spot before it ends.
Lollapalooza 2025 Date: July 31 to August 3
Where: Grant Park, Chicago, US
So, these are all the amazing festivals in August celebrated worldwide. Which festival are you planning to attend first? Will it be the Burning Man 2025 event or La Tomatina in Spain? Or are you thinking of experiencing some major Indian festivals this year? If so, plan your trip with our India tour packages and have a thrilling experience in this land like never before.
Festivals in August 2025 – FAQ’s
There are numerous August festivals in India 2025, however we have come up with some prominent ones, including:
- Raksha Bandhan
- Krishna Janmashtami
- Hariyali Teej
- Independence Day
Yes! There is a kite flying festival in Delhi on August 15, 2025. It is a popular tradition to celebrate this auspicious day in which people gather on terraces and fly their kites in the sky. The Delhi tour also organizes many cultural events, inviting professional kite flyers and locals to celebrate freedom with kite flying.
Burning Man is a 9-day-long desert event that focuses on promoting art, self-expression and self-reliance. Its main motto is to build community and promote creativity. This year, Burning Man 2025 event will be held from Sunday, 24 August to Monday, 1 September.
Obon (or just Bon) is a major Japanese festival celebrated in the month of August every year to honor the spirits of ancestors. It's a time when families return to their hometowns, clean their ancestral graves, and take part in rituals to welcome and celebrate the return of deceased ancestors.
Toronto Caribbean Carnival 2025 will be held from 31st July to 4th August 2025 in Toronto, Canada.
