The Ultimate Guide to the Best Festivals and Events in the U.S.
From world-famous music festivals to historic celebrations and cultural gatherings, the U.S. hosts some of the most diverse and exciting events. Whether you love music, food, sports, or traditions, there’s a festival for you!
In this guide, we’ll explore:
🎶 Top 8 festivals you must experience
🍔 Best food festivals in the country
🎭 Cultural events & parades
📌 Travel tips for attending U.S. festivals
Let’s dive into the most exciting events across America!
1. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival – The Ultimate Music Festival
📍 Location: Indio, California
📅 When: April
🎟 Ticket Price: Starting at $499 (3-day pass)
Why Visit?
Coachella is one of the most famous music festivals in the world, attracting top artists, influencers, and music lovers. It features multiple stages, immersive art installations, and a vibrant festival atmosphere.
Best Experiences at Coachella
🎤 Live Performances – See world-class musicians across all genres
🎨 Art Installations – Massive sculptures and interactive exhibits
🥂 VIP Parties – Exclusive celebrity-packed after-parties
🌵 Desert Vibes – Enjoy the unique scenery of the Coachella Valley
📌 Pro Tip: Book tickets and accommodations early—Coachella sells out fast!
2. Mardi Gras – America’s Biggest Party
📍 Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
📅 When: February or March (before Ash Wednesday)
🎟 Ticket Price: Free (parades), VIP packages available
Why Visit?
Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a legendary carnival celebration, known for its parades, beads, masks, and festive street parties.
Best Experiences at Mardi Gras
🎭 Krewe Parades – Watch massive floats and costumed performers
🎶 Live Jazz & Music – Experience the best of New Orleans’ music scene
🍹 French Quarter Parties – Dance the night away on Bourbon Street
🎭 Mask & Costume Culture – Dress up in traditional Mardi Gras outfits
📌 Pro Tip: Arrive a few days early to catch more parades and events!
3. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – A Sky Full of Colors
📍 Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
📅 When: October
🎟 Ticket Price: $15 per session
Why Visit?
This is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, with over 500 balloons filling the sky.
Best Experiences at the Balloon Fiesta
🎈 Mass Ascension – Watch hundreds of balloons launch at sunrise
🔥 Night Glow – Balloons light up the sky at night
🚀 Special Shape Rodeo – See balloons in fun, creative shapes
📸 Photography & Scenic Views – Capture stunning images of the colorful sky
📌 Pro Tip: Dress in layers—the mornings can be chilly, even in October!
4. The Super Bowl – America’s Biggest Sporting Event
📍 Location: Varies each year
📅 When: February
🎟 Ticket Price: $5,000+ (varies based on location)
Why Visit?
The Super Bowl is the biggest sporting event in the U.S., featuring the NFL’s championship game, a star-studded halftime show, and legendary commercials.
Best Experiences at the Super Bowl
🏈 Watch the Game Live – Experience the energy of a packed stadium
🎶 Halftime Show – See performances from the world’s biggest artists
🍔 Tailgate Parties – Enjoy food, drinks, and football fun before the game
🎉 Super Bowl Weekend Events – Attend celebrity-packed parties📌 Pro Tip: Even if you don’t have a ticket, many cities host Super Bowl watch parties!
5. The Kentucky Derby – The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports
📍 Location: Louisville, Kentucky
📅 When: First Saturday in May
🎟 Ticket Price: Starting at $85
Why Visit?
The Kentucky Derby is the most famous horse race in the U.S., known for its southern charm, stylish outfits, and mint juleps.
Best Experiences at the Kentucky Derby
🏇 Watch the Race – The Derby only lasts two minutes, but it’s legendary!
🎩 Derby Fashion – Wear a fancy hat or stylish suit
🍹 Mint Juleps – Try the official drink of the Derby
🎶 Live Music & Parties – The festival atmosphere lasts all weekend
📌 Pro Tip: Book your tickets and outfits early—the Derby is a major fashion event!
6. Burning Man – The Most Unique Festival in the U.S.
📍 Location: Black Rock Desert, Nevada
📅 When: Late August–Early September
🎟 Ticket Price: $575+
Why Visit?
Burning Man is not just a festival—it’s an experience. It’s a temporary city where art, music, and radical self-expression take center stage.
Best Experiences at Burning Man
🔥 The Burning of the Man – The festival’s grand finale
🎨 Massive Art Installations – Interactive sculptures and futuristic designs
🎭 Costumes & Self-Expression – Anything goes in Black Rock City
🚲 Biking Through the Desert – The best way to explore the festival
📌 Pro Tip: Be prepared—there’s no money exchanged at Burning Man, and the desert conditions can be extreme!
7. Taste of Chicago – The Largest Food Festival in the U.S.
📍 Location: Chicago, Illinois
📅 When: July
🎟 Ticket Price: Free entry, food tickets for purchase
Why Visit?
Taste of Chicago is a food lover’s paradise, featuring the best of Chicago’s culinary scene.
Best Experiences at Taste of Chicago
🍕 Deep-Dish Pizza – Try Chicago’s famous pizza style
🌭 Chicago-Style Hot Dogs – A must-try festival snack
🍔 International Cuisine – Sample foods from around the world
🎶 Live Music & Performances – Enjoy concerts while eating amazing food
📌 Pro Tip: Go hungry—there are hundreds of food stalls to explore!
8. New Year’s Eve in Times Square – A Legendary Celebration
📍 Location: New York City, New York
📅 When: December 31st
🎟 Ticket Price: Free (VIP tickets available)
Why Visit?
New York’s Times Square Ball Drop is one of the most iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world.
Best Experiences at Times Square NYE
🎇 Watch the Ball Drop – See the massive countdown in person
🎤 Live Music & Performances – Enjoy performances from top artists
🎉 New Year’s Eve Parties – VIP events, rooftop bars, and clubs
❄ Winter Wonderland Atmosphere – Snow, lights, and celebrations
📌 Pro Tip: Arrive early—people start gathering in Times Square by noon!
Experience the Best U.S. Festivals with GoUSAExpress!
At GoUSAExpress, we help international travelers attend the biggest festivals and events with:
🎭 Visa assistance for festival-goers
🎟 Exclusive event packages & tickets
🏨 Travel planning & accommodations📌 Want to experience the best festivals in the U.S.? Contact us today to start planning your trip!
