Festivals and events in the USA

There’s no doubt America should be on everyone’s to-do-list; it’s spectacular medley of states and cities allow for the ultimate adventure. However, it’s even better to be there during a major festival or event…

January

• Chinese New Year Head down to San Francisco’s Chinatown on Chinese New Year, where you will be greeted with parades, dazzled by fireworks, and tempted by a whole medley of delectable food in celebration of the glorious New Year. It is usually celebrated in late January/early February.

February

• Black History Month Also known as African American History Month. It is an annual celebration of African-American heritage nationwide.
• Valentine’s Day As you already know, this is a day for romance! Why not pack up and head to the beautiful USA with your partner in time for Valentine’s Day?
• Mardi Gras The day before Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras (French for Fat Tuesday) is a ‘Carnival season,’ made up of Carnival celebrations. New Orleans is the place to be during Mardi Gras.

March

• St Patrick’s Day The 17^th. Get down to New York, Boston or Chicago if you’re planning a trip to America prior to St Patrick’s Day and get involved with some huge celebrations.
• Easter Stuff your face full of chocolate on the Sunday following Good Friday.

May

• Cinco de Mayo The 5^th. Parades are put on (mostly in the South and West of America) to celebrate the day the Mexicans won the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
• Mother’s Day

June

• Father’s Day
• Gay Pride Month Giant parades line the streets of San Francisco in celebration of Gay pride. Smaller cities hold parades too although these may only last up to a week.

July

• Independence Day The 4^th. Expect huge celebrations all over America, as people come together to celebrate the anniversary of the US becoming independent. Chicago is the number one destination to be on Independence Day.

October

• Halloween Head to New York or San Francisco on the 31^st for the wildest Halloween ever. Take the kids trick or treating or attend parties in some of the most liveliest locations.

November

• Day of the Dead The 2^nd. Mexican communities light a candle in memory of deceased relatives
• Thanksgiving

December

• Chanukkah An eight-day Jewish holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights
• Christmas Visit our Christmas in America blog for ideas on where to go if you plan on visiting the USA for the festive season

Don’t forget your ESTA if you’re planning on travelling to the States!

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