The Best U.S. Festivals International Students Should Experience

An experience that is unforgettable and feels like a home country celebration in a different country sounds priceless! Isn’t it? 

Well, the US isn’t just about skyscrapers and city lights; it’s also about the experiences that bring people together. From small-town parades to massive music festivals, America is rich in heritage, tradition, and culture. 

In this blog, you will get to know about the best U.S. festivals for international students.

Biggest Festivals in the US one should attend

Below are the biggest festivals in the US that you should attend if you are a student living off campus in the US.

1. New Orleans Mardi Gras

This festival is considered one of the best festivals in the US. The energy of New Orleans Mardi Gras is colorful and fascinating.

It is organized by cities’ iconic social clubs, in which people pour into the streets dressed in vibrant colors and dramatic outfits.

Festivalgoers throw beads, cups, and other trinkets into the crowd. Catching one feels like a mini-victory.

Music blasts from every corner, laughter fills the air, and there’s an electric energy that you can feel deep in your bones.

It isn’t something you see—it’s something you feel.

• Location : New Orleans, Louisiana
• Festival Dates : 6th Jan-1st March 

What you’ll experience- 

• Music Lineup: Over 5,000 musicians across 14 stages.
• Culinary:  Food vendors, including a new vegan booth, offering local specialties.
• Cultural Experiences: Congo Square African Marketplace and Louisiana Marketplace showcasing local arts and crafts.
• Transportation: Jazz Fest Express Shuttle and travel packages available.

2. Burning Man (Nevada—Black Rock Desert) 

Burning Man is the kind of festival that does not follow any norms; it’s a unique blend of art, creativity, self-expression, and self-reliance. 

There’s no official entertainment lineup—you are the experience. If you are someone who loves creativity and enjoys building things with people, then this festival is for you. 

• Location : Black rock desert, Pershing County, Nevada
• Festival Dates : 24 Aug-1 September

What you’ll experience-

• The Burning of “The Man”: At the end of the week you will experience the ceremonial burning of a huge wooden effigy.

• Theme Camps: Art Installations; Music & Dance Parties (live DJ, sound stages, silent discos); Workshops (yoga, meditation, body painting, fire spinning); Bars & Lounges.

• Interactive experiences:  games, storytelling, puzzles, relationship advice booths, and a “hug deli” (for real). 

3. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

If you are a bike enthusiast, this one is for you. If you are not into bikes then also it’s too adventurous  to miss out. 

It’s not just stunt biking but an open road adventure where you would be enjoying live concerts, group rides through scenic areas like Mount Rushmore and the Badlands, plus a very festive (and sometimes wild) atmosphere. 

• Location : Sturgis, South Dakota, USA
• Festival Dates : August 1–August 10 

What you’ll experience-

• Motorcycle Events: Custom bike shows, Stunt riding and trick performances,
  Drag races and hill climbs, Group rides through scenic routes.
• Live Entertainment: Country concerts, comedy shows, contests, and themed parties.
• Vendors & Food: Dozens of food trucks, BBQ stands, and beer tents, etc
• Biker Culture & Socializing: Meet-ups with riders from around the world
  Parades, charity rides, and biker church services.

4. Dragon Con

Whether you are a Sci-fi lover, comic lover, or gamer, everything is covered for you in this event. This event is fan-driven of everything geek culture. It is that event that is run by fans, for fans.

•  Location: Downtown, Atlanta 
• Festival Dates: Aug 29-Sept 1

What you’ll experience-

• Massive Fandom: Science fiction, fantasy, TV & movies, anime, steampunk, cyberpunk, tabletop games, video games, & this is not it!
• Legendary Cosplay: Finest detailed costumes you’ll experience, group themes, mashups, and the Dragon Con Parade.
• Celebrity Guests: You name it—they have it. 
• 24/7 Vibes: This event runs day and night. You’ll find dance parties, raves, karaoke, and themed balls going all night.

5. National Cherry Blossom Festival

If you are a student housing in Washington or nearby, the most mesmerizing spring you will ever experience is in this national cherry blossom fest. It is a gift from Japan to the U.S., a complete blend of U.S.-Japan history and spring celebration.

• Location: Washington, D.C.
• Festival Dates: Likely March 15 – April 13

What you’ll experience- 

• Scenic Cherry Blossoms: Walking paths, paddle boats, and photography and peak bloom around the Tidal Basin.
• Cultural Events: Japanese cultural performances, martial arts demos, traditional music & dance, origami workshops, tea ceremonies, kimono displays, and calligraphy.
• Other signature events: Blossom Kite Festival, National Cherry Blossom Parade, and arts and music celebration with food, games, and fireworks.

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About author

Kajol. M is someone who’s passionate about sharing stories, ideas, and anything that sparks a little inspiration. When not writing, you’ll probably catch me buried in a book, playing an instrument, or getting lost in a playlist.