Asia is a beautiful continent, but what if you want something even more visually stunning? In that case, it could be time to check out the best fall festivals found across Asia for something completely different from the usual vacation snaps.
Chinese Moon Festival – September – October
If you want to celebrate the harvest across Asia, especially in Hong Kong and Taiwan, where it’s a public holiday, then you might want to take a look at the Chinese Moon Festival. Mooncakes are the main feature, but spending time with loved ones is also an important part of the day held sometime in September or October each year.
Phuket Vegetarian Festival – September – October
For nine days, Phuket in Thailand becomes one big festival as the Phuket Vegetarian Festival dominates the land. Don’t think this is all about the food, as people piercing their faces with skewers, swords, and even everyday items is a common aspect of the celebration. It’s known to be chaotic but is one of the best fall festivals if you want something entirely out of this world.
Gandhi’s birthday – October 2
Mahatma Gandhi will forever go down as one of the most famous names in history. Although he passed away in 1948, he has been remembered ever since. In fact, Gandhi’s birthday – October 2 – is celebrated across India each year. It’s one of three of the only national holidays in India and was called the International Day of Non-Violence as the International Day of Peace was already taken.
Pushkar Camel Fair – Late fall
Traveling to Pushkar in India will mean you get to see one of the best fall festivals in the world, let alone in Asia. 100,000 people and 50,000 camels arrive each year to celebrate with camel racing, selling, and animals adorned with all kinds of colors and patterns. There are also traditional dances and competitions to fill the day, as well as plenty of room to camp each night.
Diwali – October – November
When it comes to fall festivals, Diwali – better known as India’s Festival of Lights – might be one of the most famous. Noisy fireworks and colorful lights are used to scare away any evil spirits, while gatherings and fairs dominate the streets. Even though it’s about keeping evil away, Diwali is one of the most beautiful festivals and is all about peace and time with loved ones.
Loi Krathong and Yi Peng – November
They might be two different festivals, but Loi Krathong and Yi Peng are often celebrated together. They are one of the more stunning festivals as lit lanterns fill the sky while candlelit boats dominate the water below. The festival is celebrated in all its glory across Thailand and usually takes place on the full moon in November.
There are ways to enjoy Asia, and then there’s taking in the best fall festivals on offer across the nation. Thankfully, each one brings its own wonder to life, and with so many to see and enjoy, there are plenty of reasons to head back to Asia each year.
