Life as a Celebration: Traveling to Cities with Colorful Traditions
Every city in the world stands out in its own way. Its architecture, rhythm of life, culture and even the local cuisine all add up to an unforgettable picture. But there are special moments when this picture comes to life, turning into a bright kaleidoscope of sounds, colors and emotions. Just as the 1983 quarter value is higher, if a coin has bright distinctive features, so too do cities reveal themselves in all their glory - during holidays and festivals. A trip timed to such events gives both unforgettable emotions and an opportunity to understand the culture more deeply. So today we invite you to explore the most colorful traditions of different parts of our world, where every holiday is a story and every city is the main stage of events, so that your list of places to visit will never end.
Traditions that Inspire
Every country holds unique traditions that can give the traveler an atmosphere of joy, spirituality and unity. Holidays become moments when cities come alive, transforming into living paintings of colors, music and dance.
Traveling in such moments, you can witness not only a grand show, but also feel the pulse of the city, get to know its history and even find unusual souvenirs. So below you may find out some of the places where the glory of tradition rattles the world, and the festivities are already considered an art form!
Rio de Janeiro Carnival: Samba and Freedom Festival
Where: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When: Usually in February or early March
Must-see things in the place: Sambadrome (Carnival parade route), Copacabana, Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Rio de Janeiro is a city that seems to be made for different celebrations. But during Carnival, its energy increases several times. The history of Carnival dates back to the 18th century, when the Portuguese brought the tradition of costumed balls. However, modern processions with samba and incredible costumes appeared only in the XX century.
Sambadrome becomes the heart of carnival. Samba schools compete for the title of the best, creating colorful shows. However, it is not only the official parades that create a festive atmosphere. There are free street carnivals or “blocks” where everyone can be part of the action.
Interesting fact: Brazil sometimes issues commemorative coins dedicated to Carnival, featuring dancers and masks. These coins can be found in souvenir markets.
Day of the Dead in Mexico: the link between worlds
Where it takes place: all of Mexico, but Mexico City and Oaxaca are particularly notable.
When it takes place: from October 31 to November 2
Must-see things in the place: ofrendas (altars) in the plazas, cemeteries in Patzcuaro, the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City.
The Day of the Dead is a holiday that unites the two worlds, i.e. the living and the departed. Its roots go back to pre-Columbian times, when the Aztecs and Mayans celebrated the memory of their ancestors. Today, the holiday combines ancient rituals and Catholic traditions.
Ofrendas decorate houses and streets, and cemeteries are drowned in flowers and candles thanks to the efforts of locals. Processions with “catrinas” (painted skulls) are a symbol of the Day of the Dead, and Mexico City hosts a grand parade every year.
Tip: To get a feel for the atmosphere, check out the local cemeteries at night - it is one of the most touching moments of the holiday. Do not forget about another local tradition and be sure to try the sugar skulls and pan de muerto, the traditional bread. But be aware that popular places can be crowded, so plan your visits in advance.
Holi in India: An Explosion of Color and Joy
Where it takes place: all over India, but Mathura, Vrindavan, Delhi and Jaipur are particularly notable.
When: March (exact date depends on the lunar calendar)
Must-see things in the place: Krishna temples in Mathura and Vrindavan, street festivals in Delhi.
Holi is about bright colors, fun and unity. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and the beginning of spring. The main tradition among the locals on the festival is sprinkling of colored powder followed by dances and songs.
Mathura and Vrindavan are the most atmospheric places to celebrate Holi. There are ritual dances and processions that illustrate the legends of Krishna. In the larger cities, the festivities are more modern but no less colorful.
Want to come and participate? Great! But before you do, there are a few things to consider: wear clothes you can't spare and goggles; use moisturizer to protect your skin from the paint; have fun at the festival but respect local traditions (don't involve those who refuse the game and be careful with the paint).
Thailand Lantern Festival: Light of Hope
Where: Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya.
When: November
Must-see things in the place: the ancient temples of Sukhothai, the rivers of Chiang Mai, the evening markets in Ayutthaya.
Loy Kratong and Yee Peng are two Thai festivals symbolizing thanksgiving for the harvest and forgiveness for sins. Loy Kratong is associated with water: people create boats out of banana leaves and launch them on rivers. And Yee Peng turns the sky into a sea of glowing lanterns.
Travel Tips:
Participate in lantern and boat launches, but only use eco-friendly materials.
Buy lanterns in advance to avoid the hype.
Respect local traditions and follow the instructions of event organizers.
Stay Safe and Have a Positive Travel Experience
Traveling to major festivals and celebrations promises unforgettable emotions, but it requires a thoughtful attention to safety and to detail. Consider these tips to ensure you have a positive experience and take home both vivid memories and unique souvenirs.
Situation | Recommendation |
Crowd at the festival | Wear a chest bag or belt bag with anti-theft protection. Avoid using backpacks in the back. |
Pickpockets in crowded places | Keep money, documents and phone in hidden pockets or special security belts. |
Need to identify currency | Use the Coin ID Scanner app to avoid confusion with coins or bills, especially in countries with unfamiliar currencies. The app helps to recognize the authenticity of money and gives information about the denomination. At the same time, the app will also be useful in case you want to find an interesting coin (and maybe even bring it home as a souvenir). So, use the app to recognize their authenticity and value. |
Unfamiliar local food | Ask locals for the best dishes to try and make sure the food is fresh and well prepared. |
Sun and heat | Use sunscreen, wear a hat and drink plenty of water. It is recommended to bring a reusable water bottle. |
Loss of contact with loved ones | Arrange ahead of time for a meeting point that is easy to find (e.g., at the main entrance or monument). |
Taking pictures on holidays | Ask if you can take photos of religious processions or participants. This may not be allowed in some countries. |
Festivals Worth Seeing
Traveling to major festivals is a chance to see more than just usual traditions and cultural features. So consider being part of an adventure full of emotions, colors and vivid impressions in the future. But here it is also important to be prepared for the unexpected and keep safety in mind so that you return home with only positive memories. Choose cities that reflect the spirit of the holiday and get to dance with them to the rhythms of local music.