November is an enchanting month for globetrotters wishing to celebrate culture, music, and experiences. Regardless of whether you want spiritual feelings by joining in the beauty of India's Diwali, ancestral celebrations centered around Mexico's Day of the Dead, or simply want a taste of sunshine's last rays themed around food and fun at the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, there is something for every traveler in November.
This time of year is when cultures showcase traditions in their full glory, brightest and lively expressions, through dance, music, rituals, food, and art. From festivals with centuries-old roots to festivals with little more to celebrate than the glory of modernism and creativity. From Asia to Europe, Africa to the Americas, there is no shortage of celebratory experiences to fulfil your needs for adventure, culture, and, above all else, happiness.
1. Diwali, India
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s most famous and beloved celebrations that represents the triumph of light over darkness as well as good over evil. Taking place in late October or November, the five-day celebration creates a bright city-wide festival that illuminates all with more oil lamps, lanterns, and fireworks than can probably be imagined.
As families decorate their homes with rangoli and do Lakshmi Puja to bring prosperity. Families also exchange sweets such as laddus and barfis.
Travelers can participate in local community events, join a prayer, light 'diyas' for good luck, witness an amazing fireworks display, enjoy street food, cultural performances, and city shopping.
Finally, Diwali is more than just a celebration, but it is an emotional experience of togetherness, warmth, and spirituality that travelers should experience at least once in their lifetime.
2. Day of the Dead, Mexico
Day of the Dead is a bright and deep Mexican party held on November 1st and 2nd. It honors those we have lost. It is not a sad day but a happy time that shows we remember them and that life goes on.
Families set up big, pretty stands with marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, photos, and the loved one's top foods. Graveyards are busy as families meet to talk, enjoy music, and eat, turning sadness into a happy day.
Big towns like Oaxaca and Mexico City have big shows with folks in skeleton suits, faces painted in fun colors, and dancing in the streets.
Guests can try special foods like pan de muerto and join in making their own altars. This event, known worldwide and noted by UNESCO, blends old native ways with Catholic ones, giving all who come a deep look into life, love, and roots.
3. Loi Krathong, Thailand
Loi Krathong, held in Thailand when the full moon lights up the 12th month night, often in November, is one of the most magical events in the land.
It's called the Festival of Lights for how folks let go of banana-leaf boats (krathongs) into rivers, lakes, and streams. This act means you let go of bad vibes and hope for luck.
In Chiang Mai, this time also brings Yi Peng, where lots of sky lanterns float up, making a cool sight. The fun has dances, shows, and fireworks that make things feel like a big party. Guests can make their own krathong or sky lantern and join the local crowd at the water's edge for this cool event.
While Chiang Mai is a top pick to see Loi Krathong, places like Sukhothai are great too. Book soon, as hotels fill fast. This calm yet wild fest is a top pick for those who love to travel.
4. Pushkar Camel Fair, India
The Pushkar Camel Fair has become a vibrant and unique festival held in the spiritual town of Pushkar, in the state of Rajasthan each year. While it has origins as a livestock trading event, it has progressed into a celebration of culture attracting many thousands of travelers from all around the world.
It is an event that lasts for a week in November, coinciding with the religious holiday of Kartik Purnima, the full moon celebration for one of India's most sacred sites, Pushkar Lake. The event includes highlights such as camel trading, camel racing, traditional folk music and dance performances, and quirky competitions like longest moustache and turban tying !
The desert comes alive with colorful bazaars filled with handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles, providing world travelers with the ideal shopping experience.
Try going on a desert safari or camping in one of the many Luxury tent camps at the fair. This festival is not limited to cultural practices, as the festival ends with the Pushkar Lake having a cultural and religious sense of completion, as rituals follow before proceeding on the journey home.
5. Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, Australia
The Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, in November, is key to see for food fans. This top-level fest shows the best of Australian food, local stuff, and great wines.
It pulls chefs and food fans from all over the world. The line-up has fancy food times, wine tries, cooking classes, and food on the street markets that make Melbourne a food haven. Big shows like the "World's Longest Lunch" put many eaters together for an outside meal you won’t forget, with great views.
You can try all from handmade cheese to beers made by small firms, and try new dishes from top chefs. More than just food, the fest also has live music, shows of different cultures, and events good for kids, making it fun for all. From eating at a winery to going to a drink mix event on a roof, this fest gives a great mix of tastes and fun times that show off Melbourne’s great food world.
6. Sapporo White Illumination, Japan
The Sapporo White Lights begin at the end of November and mark the beginning of winter on Hokkaido, the northernmost island in Japan. The major areas in Sapporo light up. There are a whole bunch of LED lights that create a magical view, and they hook attendees and visitors from far and wide. This event is not just lights; it combines that chilly winter vibe with what is local to that place, like food.
People there can have warm drinks and eat food special to the time of year from food stalls, which makes the cold nights nice and fun. For those who love to take photos, the lit-up art and bright streets are great spots.
7. Guy Fawkes Night, United Kingdom
It involves looking back on the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, a time when Guy Fawkes and his team tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
Now, it's one of the top fall events in Britain, with big firework shows, huge bonfires, and groups meeting up. "Guys" are dummy figures of Guy Fawkes put on the fires to burn, while bright shows fill the sky.
Big spots for fun include Alexandra Palace in London, Lewes in East Sussex, and Edinburgh. Along with the light shows, foods like toffee apples, parkin (a ginger cake), and warm drinks help beat the cold night. Both families and visitors enjoy fairs, live music, and snug times in pubs.
8. NYC Marathon, United States
The New York City Marathon, run on the first Sunday of November, is the biggest marathon in the world and a must-see for sports fans and travelers.
The race pulls in over 50,000 runners and millions of fans each year. The mood is buzzing as locals shout for runners from all sorts of places, making for a fun town-wide party. More than just the run, the event has a week full of fun, like the Marathon Expo and runs for charity, making it a great time to see NYC.
Guests can check out the city's big spots, eat top-notch food, and take in the arts while feeling the marathon vibe. It’s an uplifting event that shows off the hard work, togetherness, and bold style of New York City.
9. Leonids Meteor Shower, Global
This big show in the sky is at its best between November 16 and 18, when Earth moves through the debris of Comet Tempel-Tuttle, making up to 15 meteors an hour if the sky is clear.
Unlike most fun events, you don't need tickets for this one, just a dark place far from city lights. The best spots to look are in far deserts, tall mountains, and big parks in places like the USA, Chile, Namibia, and Mongolia.
For the best time, you can add camping, warm drinks, and soft blankets for a cozy night with the stars. Admirers of the stars will find this show both moving and hard to forget, which is nothing less than a magic show in November that goes beyond all limits and brings people together.
10. Yi Peng Lantern Festival, Thailand
Loi Krathong is a big party that happens all over Thailand, but Yi Peng in Chiang Mai is the best due to its great look. In November, Yi Peng comes right after Loi Krathong.
It is about letting go of many light paper lights into the sky at night, showing the push of bad luck away and the pull of good luck in. Seeing all those lights go up over the city, with old places and hills around, is just like magic.
The event has fun parades, dances from the Lanna culture, and live songs, making the party more fun. Guests can buy lights from the shops and take them with the people who live there.
11. Reykjavik Iceland Airwaves, Iceland
Early in November, Iceland Airwaves is a top music fest in Europe. It draws artists from around the world and shows off Iceland's new stars.
The shows are in many cool places in Reykjavik, from big halls and bars to art spots. The fest has all kinds of music like indie rock, electronic tunes, folk, and new types of sounds.
More than music, you can see the city's art, try local food, and go out to see Iceland's great sights like waterfalls, ice, and the Northern Lights. For those who love music and want fun and new things, Iceland Airwaves is a must-do in a city famous for its art scene and big views.
12. Thanksgiving, United States
Thanksgiving is a much-loved holiday in the US, meant to show thanks and bring people together. Families meet to enjoy big meals with roasted turkey, pumpkin pie, and cranberry sauce.
Big towns have great parades, the top one is the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. It has huge balloons, bands, and live shows. Guests can also find fun things to do, like ice skating and holiday shops that pop up in November.
Following Thanksgiving is Black Friday, and some of the best deals of the year. Visiting the US at this time allows you to see and feel some of the warm and fun traditions of America, both in cities and small towns.
13. Singapore Writers Festival, Singapore
The Singapore Writers Festival occurs every November. The festival brings to life books, conversation, and new ideas; featuring world-class writers, poets, and new voices from near and far.
It features talks, book launches, writer workshops, and readings of poetry, all in many languages and topics - showcasing a multitude of cultures alive in Singapore.
People can meet top writers, learn about the art of storytelling, and go to expert classes. Away from the event, guests can see Singapore’s famous spots, eat great food, and check out places like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.
14. Buenos Aires Jazz Festival, Argentina
Every year, when it turns to November, Buenos Aires turns into a dream spot for jazz fans. The city holds its big Jazz Fest. The event brings top world musicians and local acts with shows, jam outs, and learning times in halls, clubs, and out in the open.
The list includes old jazz, new mix-ups, and fresh sounds, giving something for all. Many shows are free, so all who love music can join. More than tunes, guests can dive into Buenos Aires' fun life, dance shows, and the city's top food, like local steak and rich wines.
15. Loy Krathong in Laos, Laos
In November, Laos holds Lai Heua Fai, a festival to honor water gods. They have lit boat shows, plays, and old ways in towns like Luang Prabang.
There, folks let go of lit floats on rivers and send lights up into the sky, making a mix of water and light in the dark. Guests can join in by making their floats or joining a prayer meet, feeling real Lao warmth and spirit.
While popping by old spots, local shops, and the big Mekong River, this time feels close and tops even the huge known parties in Thailand. This is great for those who like to take it slow and live in the now.
16. Thai Elephant Festival, Surin, Thailand
Thai Elephant Fest is a grand event celebrating their big, proud animal, featuring shows depicting the tight bond between elephants and Thai ways of life.
The best part is the big Elephant Buffet, where many elephants eat fruits and vegetables in a bright setup. People can see cool shows of elephant tasks, like pulling logs, painting, and old battle shows with elephants as war beasts.
The fest has parades, shows of the culture, and dance acts, making for a fun vibe. Guests can meet these big, kind animals, learn about keeping them safe, and check out Surin's shops for crafts and treats.
This one-of-a-kind event mixes old ways, love for animals, and together feels, and is a key thing to see for those who love animals and culture and are in Thailand in November.
17. Festa della Madonna della Salute, Venice, Italy
On November 21st, Venice marks the Festa della Madonna della Salute, a big event with deep roots in its past. It began in the 17th century after Venice recovered from a bad sickness, and the event now thanks the Virgin Mary for help.
The main focus is the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, lit up with candles and flowers. Locals walk over a short bridge made just for this across the Grand Canal to show respect, making a quiet yet lively feel. Guests can see candle-lit walks, hear holy music, and try old Venice food like castradina stew from street sellers.
The event shows off Venice’s strong tie to religion, mixing deep respect with local charm. For those who travel, it’s a chance to see Venice without the big crowds, enjoying its old beauty, waterways, and fun customs in the cool, calm month of November.
18. Oaxaca Mezcal Festival, Mexico
The Oaxaca Mezcal Fest in the south of Mexico is a treat for drink fans & culture fans. Set in mid-November, this fair shows off mezcal, Mexico’s top agave drink. It holds tastings, key talks, & craft fairs.
You can try lots of mezcal kinds, learn how it's made in the old way, & meet the makers who have kept this art for years. The fest is more than a drink, it’s a rich mix of live songs, folk dances, & bright shops with crafts & food from Oaxaca.
Guests can also see Oaxaca’s old-style buildings, bright streets, & old ruins. This deep dive lets you taste true blends as you link with the old ways, & it is a must-see for those who love food & culture who plan to visit Mexico in November.
19. Dubai Design Week, United Arab Emirates
Dubai Design Week is the big art party held every year in early November in the Middle East. This event turns Dubai into a live spot for new design work in buildings, inside spaces, clothes, and tech.
Some top parts are the Downtown Design trade show, art out in public, design workshops, and talks with top people in the field. The fest also backs green efforts and local craft work, showing visitors new ideas and old skills side by side.
More than just shows, visitors can also see Dubai’s new wonders, fancy shops, and places like Alserkal Avenue, full of culture. With no-cost art spots and fun stuff for all, Dubai Design Week blends art, culture, and new ideas. It is a key stop for travelers who love art and design while seeing one of the most forward-looking cities.
20. Africolor Festival, France
For more than thirty years, this fest has put together great players, dancers, and tellers, turning parts of Paris into lively places. They play Afrobeat, jazz, reggae, and old African beats.
Guests can also go to workshops, see films, and try out food events that show off Africa’s wide past. Africolor digs into sharing ways and kinds, giving a new look at France, far from the old views. For those who travel, the fest is a chance to dive deep into world tunes while seeing Paris and nearby spots.
It’s a bright, full of rhythm, and deep trip that pulls in music fans, and those looking for true mixed ways to spend their November time in Europe.
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