Unique Fall Festivals to Plan For

Summer vacation may just be getting started, but the autumn season has a lot to offer by way of travel. With mild temperatures, natural beauty and still active communities, fall is the perfect time to travel — especially with the added fun festival excuse.

Scope out something unique and enjoy an offbeat family vacation. Take the summer to plan with the younger children or take advantage of the post-school season with the older kids and enjoy an exotic family festival.

Lake of Stars World Music Festival in Salima, Malawi: Sept. 28–30

Enjoy the annual Lake of Stars Festival in Salmina, Malawi, Sept. 28–30, for music, art and natural beauty. Celebrated each year on the shores of the lake of Kabumba Hotel resort, Leopards Bay, guests enjoy both local and international artists, dancing and cultural celebrations. This event is an Instagrammer’s dream.

Qatar Prix de L’Arc Triomphe in Paris, France: Oct. 6–7

Have a few horse lovers in the family? Join Parisians and horserace fans at the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend, Oct. 6–7, for a 100-year-old tradition. Watch one of the world’s finest horse races at the Hippodrome de Longchamp, Bois du Boulogne. The elite weekend boasts 15 flat races and is one of the most sought-after thoroughbred races in the world with the final flat stage, EPIQE Series.

Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival on Inle Lake, Shan State in Myanmar: Oct. 10–27

This fall, head to the picturesque waters of Inle Lake in the Shan State, Myanmar, for one of the largest Buddhist celebrations in the word. The Southeast Asian festival boasts vibrant decorations, boat races and local traditions the whole family can enjoy. The epicenter of the celebration mainly consists of four Buddha statues transported clockwise from village to village, blessing surrounding monasteries. Transported by a mythical bird-shaped barge, participants play traditional music while dancing, celebrating and enjoying the traditional blessing ceremony.

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Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico: Oct. 31–Nov. 2

A fall festival list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Day of the Dead in Mexico. Specifically celebrated in Oaxaca, enjoy the beautifully decorated city, altars and incredible celebrations throughout town. This festival is a must-see for all ages and a truly unique celebration of life, death and family. Stop in quaint shops and restaurants while celebrating the life, heritage and local tradition of El Día de los Muertos. Turn the entire occasion into a foodie festival and plan your expedition.