Attending cultural performances and exhibitions, camps, and music and drama festivals is an excellent way to shake off stress from academics and anxiety. Here’s a list of festivals for international students to give you an unforgettable experience of learning in a foreign country and an opportunity to appreciate diversity.
10 Best Festivals for International Students
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is a common beer tradition in German, held in Bavarian, Munich, from September to October for about fifteen to eighteen days. The celebration began in 1810 to commemorate Prince Ludwig I of Bavaria and Therese of Saxony following their marriage. Since its inception, Oktoberfest has been celebrated annually and centers around beer, German’s local culture, fun and games, traditional foods, and history. Furthermore, it has various attractions, including the Polka show. The event allows international students to interact with German tradition and other scholars from different countries.
Carnival of Venice
The Carnival of Venice is celebrated in Venice, Italy, dating back to the eighteenth century. The celebration began as a disguise for the superiors or high-class individuals while going to town. It was recognized as a national activity and cultural reference for the Italians during the eighteenth century. The event is commemorated between January and February and lasts approximately ten days, with the natives dressed in the comic attire attributed to the 17th century.
For international students, this is an opportunity to enjoy a festive atmosphere characterized by theater shows, acrobatics, dances, and music.
Bellwether Music Festival
Bellwether Music Festival is one of the popular events for international students in the United States. It is among the fascinating summer music festivals as it offers a great combination of camping and singing experience, thus allowing students to interact as they discover their talents. The occasion is held at Renaissance Park, Waynesville, Ohio, and gathers famous artists annually. Bellwether Music Festival could be your ideal program if you’re passionate about popular culture and adventure.
St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day is an annual memorial event in Ireland, celebrated on 17th March in memory of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron. Furthermore, it is a special day commemorating Christianity’s arrival in the country. The festival began as a religious occasion, although it has transformed into a cultural celebration. It is currently celebrated in Dublin and lasts for about five days.
St. Patrick’s Day presents the legends and superstitions of the Irish people and has symbols such as clovers, leprechauns, and the color green as the main theme to represent Irish heritage and culture. This event is a must-attend for international students in Ireland, especially those interested in understanding the country’s culture and history of Christianity.
Rio Carnival
Rio Carnival is a cultural event celebrated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from Friday to Ash Wednesday during the Lent season. It is a popular occasion that attracts individuals from all over the world. The celebration is attributed to Greek revels, although the Romans modified it to honor their gods. The Catholic leaders later embraced the festival, making it an annual occasion for believers worldwide. Rio Carnival is marked by exciting events, including music and Samba dancing, which may be interesting experiences for international students. If you’re passionate about traditional cultures and music festivals, you will definitely enjoy this festivity.
For most individuals, attending university in a foreign country can be overwhelming. Despite the opportunity offering benefits such as high employment prospects and exposure to different cultures, it presents learners with numerous obstacles such as unfamiliar living conditions, different foods, and difficulty balancing personal life and studies. Luckily, students can enhance their academic excellence through essay writing services like CustomWritings.com and attend festivities creating awareness about the people’s history and traditions. The website provides cheap online homework help, enabling learners to have a smooth college life. The papers are written by experienced authors, thus a guarantee of exceptional quality.
Albuquerque International Balloon Festival
The Albuquerque International Balloon Festival event was first celebrated in the United States in the 1970s and has since become one of the largest fun events in the country. It is held in the first or second week of October, ushered in by hundreds of hot balloons released into the crisp fall air. The occasion has grown into one of the most photographed events globally. It incorporates other activities like live band performances, laser light shows, and interactive education sessions that can reduce the boredom of studying abroad, especially for students who aren’t good at socializing.
International Day of Friendship
Even though the day is meant to promote peace and emphasize the power of friendship, it is categorized among the best festivals for ESL students. It allows international students to interact with their peers and share ideas about academics and other aspects of life. Therefore, it’s an ideal opportunity to have fun as they explore sentence structures, rhythm, and English vocabulary.
Dia de los Muertos
Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican event celebrated between 31st October and 2nd November. It is one of the country’s major annual events, marked by a celebratory mood, rich traditions, baking, decorations, lighting candles, and creating altars filled with pictures of departed friends and relatives. Although Mexicans celebrate Dia de los Muertos to pay homage to their loved ones, it’s one of the best festivals for students as it emphasizes the importance of family. International scholars can participate in this occasion and interact with the natives as they celebrate their kin.
Elements Festival
This event finalizes our list of festivals for college students. It is characterized by young and energetic youths fond of modern electronic music. The occasion gathers famous musicians from all over the world and provides attendees with memorable emotions and experiences. The Elements Festival is one of the most exciting adventures you can’t miss while studying in New York City.
Afropunk Fest
If you’re passionate about traditional cultural practices and arts, Afropunk Fest is perfect for you. It is among the leading film festivals suitable for students interested in learning more about the cultural traditions of African people. The event is held in Brooklyn, New York, and takes place annually.
So, Is It Worth Attending International Festivals?
Festival activities for students bring together people from different countries. As a result, they promote intercultural understanding, creativity, and cultural exchange. In addition, they enhance goodwill and create an excellent opportunity for creating international friendship networks. Therefore, besides traveling the world for fun, learners should attend such events to discover foreign cultures. Furthermore, they will spice up their sightseeing plans and rejuvenate their minds after long weeks and semesters of extensive reading, attending classes, writing essays, and doing other research projects.