Looking for something fun to do in September? Quirkiness, beer, and music make up many of the festivals around the world next month. Here are some of the top ones for visitors to attend.
Bumbershoot, Labor Day Weekend, Seattle
If you’re a lover of diverse music and arts, Seattle’s Bumbershoot Festival is an absolute must. Held annually over Labor Day weekend, this vibrant festival has been a cornerstone of Seattle’s cultural landscape since 1972. It’s a melting pot of art forms, featuring everything from live music performances by internationally renowned artists to visual arts exhibitions, theater productions, comedy shows, and even zombie walks! Imagine watching rock legends and hip-hop stars perform side by side while street performers and artists showcase their craft. At Bumbershoot, you get to experience pop culture in its rawest form. Set in the 74-acre Seattle Center, this event is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of creativity and community.
Regata Storica, August 29-September 1, Venice
Step back in time with Venice’s iconic Regata Storica, held on the first Sunday of September. Imagine the Grand Canal adorned with 16th-century-style gondolas, each manned by costumed rowers competing in a series of vibrant races. This historical event is not just a race but a living museum, showcasing the rich maritime heritage of Venice. The race is accompanied by a colorful procession that mimics ancient Venetian naval parades. Whether you’re a fan of history, boat racing, or just want to soak in the festive atmosphere, the Regata Storica is a spectacle that captures the essence of Venice. Cheer for your favorite gondolini as they race to the finish line, and don’t forget to enjoy some Venetian street food while you’re at it!
Autumn Equinox Festival, September 22 or 23, Chichén Itzá
The Autumn Equinox Festival celebration occurs on September 22 or 23 each year. On this day, the day and night are of equal length all over the world. The festival is celebrated in many cultures around the world, but it is particularly popular in Mexico, where it is known as the Chichén Itzá Equinox Festival. People go to experience the natural beauty of the equinox, while others go to learn about the event’s cultural significance, which is the Mayan belief that the serpent of light symbolizes the descent of the god Kukulkan from the heavens. The festival is also a popular tourist destination, as it offers a unique opportunity to see the sun cast a serpent of light on the side of the pyramid of Kukulkan at Chichén Itzá.
La Merce, September 24, Barcelona
La Mercè is the annual festival of Barcelona in Catalonia, Spain. This festival celebrates the patron saint of Barcelona, the Virgin of Mercy. It became an official city holiday since 1871 when the local government first organized a program of special activities to observe the Roman Catholic feast day of Our Lady of Mercy, La Mare de Déu de la Mercè in Catalan. Although the actual feast day is September 24, it takes place over four days in September. It features a variety of events, including street parades, concerts, fireworks, traditional dances, and sporting events. Barcelona’s Best Markets; Barcelona: Centre of Art and Architecture
Oktoberfest, September 17- October 3, Munich
The world-famous beer festival takes place over two weeks in September and October in Munich, Germany. Oktoberfest is known for good food, including Bratwurst, cabbage pretzels, and a lot of beer. Seven million liters of beer are drunk during this event, with 13.5% alcohol. It’s not surprising that during Oktoberfest, there are a lot of drunk, disorderly attendees. However, that adds to the excitement of it all. In addition to the food and beer, there are rides, music, dancing, and constant activities. It’s not uncommon for individuals to attend all 16 days of this event.
Berlin Festival of Lights, September and October, Berlin
The Berlin Festival of Lights is an annual event that takes place over two weeks in September and October and features beautiful light installations worldwide. Visitors can walk or bike around the city to see the light installations projected onto buildings, bridges, and other landmarks. The festival is free to attend and is one of Berlin‘s most popular tourist attractions during this time of year. The festival celebrates creativity and innovation, showcasing the latest lighting technology trends.
Brisbane Festival, September and October, Brisbane
This annual Arts festival takes place over three weeks in September and October and features a variety of events, including theater, music, dance, outdoor concerts, street performances, and comedy. It is one of the largest arts festivals in Australia and attracts over one million people each year. One of the most famous events of the Brisbane Festival is the Riverfire fireworks display. This spectacular fireworks display takes place over the Brisbane River and is one of the largest fireworks displays in Australia.
Navratri Festival, September and October, Navratri
This Hindu annual festival celebrates the nine forms of the goddess Durga. It takes place over nine days in September or October and features traditional dances, music performances, and delicious food. The festival celebrates the goddess Durga and her victory over the demon Mahishasura. Navratri is also a time to reflect on their spiritual journey and seek the goddess Durga’s blessings. The festival is a time of renewal and purification and a time to start new beginnings. This is also a popular tourist destination, as it offers a unique opportunity to experience Hindu culture and traditions. One of the most famous events of Navratri is the Garba dance. Both men and women perform this traditional Gujarati dance, symbolizing joy and celebration. Another popular event is the Dandiya Raas dance. Women perform this traditional Gujarati dance, and it involves using sticks to beat out a rhythm.
