As the saying goes, “there’s a parade for every occasion.” While Mardi Gras may be the most well-known parade event around the world, there are other incredible and unique parades that take place in different countries. From showering people with powder to playful water fights, here are some of the most exciting parade events from around the world.

Holi - India 🇮🇳

Holi is a Hindu festival that signifies the arrival of spring. During this event, people throw colorful powder and water at one another as a way of spreading joy and happiness. It’s customary to wear white clothes to the event, so that the colors stand out more vividly. There’s also traditional Indian dancing and music to enjoy. Holi is a fantastic way to experience Indian culture and socialize with locals and tourists alike.

A group of people celebrating Holi whilst covered in brightly coloured powder

Songkran - Thailand 🇹🇭

Songkran is the Thai New Year festival, where people engage in massive water fights to welcome the new year. During the festival, the streets are flooded with people who throw buckets of water, water guns, and even elephants spraying water! The water is said to wash away misfortunes from the past year, and is a symbol of the new year’s clean and fresh start. The festival runs for three days, and is an excellent way to taste Thai street food, ride tuk-tuks, and make new friends from all over the world.

People celebrating Songkran by engaging in a playful water fight

La Tomatina - Spain 🇪🇸

La Tomatina is an annual tomato fight festival that takes place in the town of Buñol, Spain. Thousands of people from all over the world gather to throw ripe tomatoes at each other for an hour. It’s a playful and fun event that brings people together from all walks of life. After the tomato fight, people usually get cleaned up and move the party to the bars and restaurants in the town, where they can try the delicious local cuisine and drinks.

A group of people participating in La Tomatina while covered in tomato splatters and laughing

Carnival of Venice - Italy 🇮🇹

The Carnival of Venice is a grand event that takes place in St. Mark’s Square and throughout the Venice canals. During the carnival, people dressed in elaborate and ornate masks and costumes walk around the city, socializing with others and taking part in various activities. The carnival’s theme is “‘Long Live Life” and symbolizes the ability of people to come together and celebrate life despite the challenges and hardships they face.

A group of people in colourful, intricately designed masks and costumes, walking over a historical bridge in Venice during Carnival

Dia de los Muertos Parade - Mexico 🇲🇽

Dia de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday that pays homage to people who have passed away. The day is not meant to be a mournful one, but rather a celebration of the deceased, their lives, and their contributions to society. During the parade, people of all ages wear colorful clothes and makeup, and make their way to cemeteries with offerings of food, drinks, and flowers. The streets are filled with music, food vendors, and fireworks, making it a lively and joyful event.

A group of people, with faces painted like skulls and flowers in their hair, standing near an altar of offerings on Dia de los Muertos

Conclusion

Although Mardi Gras is the most well-known parade event around the world, there are other incredible and unique parades that take place in different countries. From showering people with powder to playful water fights, these events encourage locals and tourists alike to let loose, break down barriers and enjoy the here and now. Attending these parades is the perfect way to experience a different culture, make new friends, and have a good time while doing so!

The world map highlighting India, Thailand, Spain, Italy and Mexico