The air’s getting a little colder and the holidays are just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of time for a last-minute getaway to catch one of the world’s top festivals. Check out this list of November’s best festivals for a little wanderlust inspiration.
Day of the Dead, Mexico, Nov. 1-2
Cemeteries and town centers throughout Mexico celebrate the souls of loved ones who have passed on during Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. Altars, processions and traditional costumes are just a few of the ways Mexican culture celebrates the dead. If you can’t get down to Mexico this weekend, you’ll find Day of the Dead celebrations across the U.S. as well.
Giant Omelette Festival, Louisiana, Nov. 2-3
Historic home shows, arts and crafts displays and a bicycle ride lead up to the epic creation of a 5,000-egg omelette in the town of Abbeville this weekend.
Diwali, India, Nov. 3
India celebrates the “Festival of Lights” this Sunday by lighting up with fireworks, oil lamps and candles across the country to mark good’s victory over evil. You can experience India’s biggest festival in the state of Goa, where villages compete to build the largest effigy of Narakasura. Or for a more spiritual experience, head to Varanasi and enjoy the chants and fireworks that illuminate the river.
Pirates Week, Cayman Islands, Nov. 7-17
With a pirate motif for its national festival, the Cayman Islands definitely know how to have fun. Reenacted pirate invasions, street dancing, pirate parades and costume competitions will have you saying “Yo-ho!” in no time.
Surin Elephant Round-up, Thailand, Nov. 8-19
Elephants are celebrated in the province of Surin during this annual event, where the animals parade down Surin’s streets, play games of soccer and compete in tug-of-war competitions against humans.
Monkey Buffet Festival, Thailand, Nov. 25
Lopburi is well-known for its mischievous monkey population, which you’re sure to encounter should you visit any of the old town’s temples. During the Monkey Buffet Festival, these macaques are showered with apples, bananas, mangos and watermelons, all served on a buffet table or as intricate fruit pyramids.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York City, Nov. 28
Sure, you could watch this one on TV as you’re slaving over that Thanksgiving turkey, but why watch it on TV when you could experience it for yourself in New York City? Grab your lawn chair, blanket and picnic basket and stake out a good spot on the parade route early, then settle in and get ready to see some of your favorite characters float by as larger-than-life balloons.
(Main image: SFU Public Affairs and Media Relations)
