Wondering where to jet off this July? We’ve found festivals that turn up the heat on fun!
Summer does peak in July, when a season of vibrant cultural festivals light up the globe, drawing travelers keen on experiencing local traditions, exquisite performances, and communal festivities.
With this, our blog tackles the best places to travel in July for cultural festivals, presented by ThisCityKnows. Here, we’ll showcase the most dynamic events and give you a sneak peek into the cultures that birthed these colorful celebrations.
From Asia to Europe, and from the tropics to the temperate, join us as we explore unique festivals that promise a July you won’t soon forget!
1. China: Harbin International Beer Festival (Early July)
Dive into the effervescent world of the Harbin International Beer Festival, where local and international breweries pour their best amidst a lively crowd.
Initiated to highlight Harbin’s brewing culture, this festival now draws beer enthusiasts from around the globe. While in Harbin, consider visiting the Siberian Tiger Park or the Russian-influenced architecture of Saint Sophia Cathedral, both of which add to the cultural experience.
Stay at: Shangri-La Hotel Harbin
2. Japan: Gion Matsuri in Kyoto (Entire month of July)
Meanwhile, Kyoto invites you to travel back in time during the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most ancient and revered festivals.
Originally a religious rite to appease plague gods, it now features elaborate floats and costumes that wind through Kyoto’s streets. Visitors can extend their cultural exploration with visits to Kiyomizu-dera Temple or the vibrant Nishiki Market.
Stay at: Kyoto Granbell Hotel
3. Tahiti: Heiva I Tahiti (Early to Mid-July)
Moving on to the Pacific, Heiva I Tahiti is a dazzling festival celebrating Polynesian culture with stunning dance competitions and traditional sports.
Revived in 1881 to preserve Tahitian heritage, it provides a deep dive into island culture. While you’re here, don’t miss exploring other island highlights like La Plage de Maui or the picturesque Fautaua Valley.
Stay at: InterContinental Tahiti Resort
4. Spain: San Fermín (Running of the Bulls) in Pamplona (July 6-14)
Next, put on your cowboy hat and experience the exhilarating San Fermín festival in Pamplona, known worldwide for its thrilling Running of the Bulls.
This festival has medieval origins and offers a rich blend of traditions including concerts and dances. And for a quieter experience, you can otherwise explore the Gothic beauty of Santa María la Real Cathedral or relax at Café Iruña.
Stay at: Hotel Maisonnave
5. South Korea: Boryeong Mud Festival (Mid-July)
Heading back to Southeast Asia, the Boryeong Mud Festival invites you to revel in the therapeutic properties of its famous mud through fun activities like mud slides and wrestling.
Launched in 1998, it also highlights the local mud’s skincare benefits. While there, do take the time to enjoy the relaxing Daecheon Beach or the local flavors at Daecheon Fish Market.
Stay at: Merry Mud Hotel
6. France: Festival d’Avignon (Early to Late July)
Venturing over to Provence, the historic city of Avignon transforms into a live stage during the Festival d’Avignon, blending contemporary and classic theater since 1947.
But beyond the shows, you can also explore Avignon’s ancient streets, the Palais des Papes, and the picturesque Pont d’Avignon.
Stay at: La Mirande
7. Austria: Pflasterspektakel (Mid-July)
Further afield in Europe, Austria’s Pflasterspektakel transforms the city into a vibrant canvas of artistic expression every July.
Established in 1987, this festival draws street performers from around the globe, including jugglers, acrobats, and artists, who showcase their talents to crowds basking in the open air. It likewise celebrates Linz as a hub for creativity and innovation.
For additional cultural experiences, be sure to visit the futuristic Ars Electronica Center and the historical Linz Castle, both offering unique insights into the city’s past and future.
Stay at: Arte Hotel Linz
8. Italy: Umbria Jazz Festival (Mid-July)
And for our last stop, the Umbria Jazz Festival fuses soothing music and cultural immersion into one—set against the serene backdrop of the Umbrian countryside.
Since its inception in 1973, the festival has attracted jazz legends and enthusiasts to the historic city of Perugia, where music fills the ancient streets. But beyond the jazz sessions, Perugia will also invite you to explore its rich history, taste its renowned local wines, and treat yourself to the famous Perugian chocolates—a true feast for all senses!
Stay at: Sina Brufani
Thanks to our sneak peek, you’ve seen how each of these destinations offers a unique window into the cultural heart of each tourism hotspot. Arguably, these are truly some of the best places to travel to every July. Each festival becomes a doorway to new experiences and timeless memories, especially when you plan with ThisCityKnows!
Discover the Best Places to Travel in July with ThisCityKnows!
These destinations offer not just parties and parades but a profound look into the heart and soul of cultures around the globe. Likewise, the festivities these places hold are doorways to the past and a celebration of the present, making them the best places to travel in July, at the peak of summer!
Of course, with ThisCityKnows, there’s more to your visits than meets the eye; you’ll be sure to experience the pulse of each locale.
So may we ask: Where will this July take you?
Let’s take on a festive journey together, because with ThisCityKnows, every destination is truly a celebration!
