Popular events in the US embody the essence of culture and celebration in the United States.
From the thrill of a championship game to the spectacle of a grand parade.
Whether you’re a sports fan, a music enthusiast, or simply love a good party, there’s something here for you to enjoy.
The United States is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and festivities, offering an array of events that draw millions of attendees from around the world.
While iconic gatherings such as the Super Bowl, Coachella, and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade capture global attention, numerous other events across the country offer equally exhilarating experiences.
These events celebrate everything from music and food to history and sports, reflecting the diverse and dynamic spirit of America.
I remember sharing with you earlier, some corporate event ideas in Kansas City, a city in the US.
Now, join me on a journey through 30 of the United States’ most popular events.
Each event offers a unique glimpse into the heart of American life.
Use this list to explore the excitement, tradition, and joy of these cherished gatherings.
1. South by Southwest (SXSW) – Austin, Texas
This is an annual conglomerate of parallel film, interactive media, and music festivals and conferences.
SXSW is a premier event that attracts thousands of professionals from around the world.
Launched in 1987, it has grown to become one of the largest and most influential festivals, serving as a platform for emerging artists, innovative technology, and groundbreaking films.
Other notable events in Austin include:
i. Austin City Limits Music Festival: An annual music festival held in Zilker Park in Austin, featuring a diverse lineup of artists.
ii. Austin Film Festival: Celebrates screenwriters and filmmakers, offering screenings, conferences, and workshops.
iii. Fun Fun Fun Fest: A music festival known for its diverse lineup, including punk, indie rock, and hip-hop.
iv. Old Settler’s Music Festival: A Roots and Americana music festival held in nearby Driftwood, Texas.
v. Pecan Street Festival: A bi-annual arts and crafts festival held in Austin’s Sixth Street Historic District.
2. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – New Orleans, Louisiana
Known simply as Jazz Fest, this iconic event showcases the music and culture of New Orleans and Louisiana.
Held over two weekends in April and May, Jazz Fest features an eclectic mix of genres, including jazz, blues, rock, and gospel, along with incredible local cuisine and arts and crafts.
Other festivals in New Orleans include:
i. French Quarter Festival: A free, annual music festival held in the French Quarter of New Orleans.
ii. Satchmo SummerFest: Celebrates the life and music of Louis Armstrong with performances and seminars.
iii. Bayou Boogaloo: A music and arts festival held on the banks of Bayou St. John.
iv. Voodoo Music + Arts Experience: An annual music and arts festival held in City Park, New Orleans.
v. Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival: Celebrates the blues with live performances and barbecues.
Taking on a language and cultural exploration class can help you further appreciate this event.
See a list of fun classes you can take.
3. Newport Folk Festival – Newport, Rhode Island
Established in 1959, the Newport Folk Festival is one of the most prestigious music festivals in the United States.
Known for its historical significance in the folk and folk rock genres, the festival has hosted legendary performances by various artists.
Some of them include Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and more recently, modern acts like Mumford & Sons and Brandi Carlile.
Other notable folk festivals include:
i. Philadelphia Folk Festival: One of the longest-running folk festivals in the US, held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
ii. Kerrville Folk Festival: An 18-day event held in Kerrville, Texas, celebrating folk music with performances, workshops, and campfire jam sessions.
iii. MerleFest: An annual festival in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, celebrating “traditional plus” music.
iv. Woody Guthrie Folk Festival: Held in Okemah, Oklahoma, celebrating the legacy of Woody Guthrie.
v. Sisters Folk Festival: A three-day music festival held in Sisters, Oregon, featuring folk and Americana music.
4. Sundance Film Festival – Park City, Utah
As the largest independent film festival in the United States, Sundance is a critical platform for filmmakers to premiere new work and engage with industry professionals.
Founded by Robert Redford in 1981, the festival has helped launch the careers of numerous renowned directors and actors.
Other prominent film festivals include:
i. Tribeca Film Festival: Founded by Robert De Niro, it showcases a diverse selection of films and media in New York City.
ii. Telluride Film Festival: Held in Telluride, Colorado, it celebrates film as an art form with premieres and retrospectives.
iii. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF): One of the largest publicly attended film festivals in the world, held in Toronto, Canada. Students have as a result of this cultural event, applied for PhD in Canada.
iv. Cannes Film Festival: An annual film festival held in Cannes, France, showcasing new films of all genres.
v. Venice Film Festival: The world’s oldest film festival, held in Venice, Italy, celebrating international cinema.
5. Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) – Las Vegas, Nevada
EDC is one of the largest electronic dance music festivals in the world, held annually in Las Vegas.
The festival features impressive stage designs, pyrotechnics, and performances by top DJs and electronic music artists.
It attracts hundreds of thousands of attendees each year, offering a vibrant and immersive experience.
Other notable electronic music festivals include:
i. Ultra Music Festival: A major electronic music festival held annually in Miami, Florida.
ii. Tomorrowland: One of the most famous electronic music festivals globally, held in Boom, Belgium.
iii. Electric Zoo: An annual electronic music festival held in New York City.
iv. Movement Electronic Music Festival: Celebrates techno music and is held annually in Detroit, Michigan.
v. Shambhala Music Festival: A premier electronic music festival held in British Columbia, Canada.
6. Mardi Gras – New Orleans, Louisiana
Celebrated in various cities across the US, Mardi Gras in New Orleans is legendary for its vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and festive atmosphere.
This pre-Lenten celebration is deeply rooted in the city’s French Catholic heritage and draws visitors from around the globe.
Other notable Mardi Gras celebrations include:
i. Galveston Mardi Gras: Texas’ largest Mardi Gras celebration, held in Galveston.
ii. Mobile Mardi Gras: The oldest annual Carnival celebration in the United States, held in Mobile, Alabama.
iii. St. Louis Mardi Gras: One of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations outside New Orleans, held in St. Louis, Missouri.
iv. Universal Studios Mardi Gras: A family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration held at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida.
v. Pensacola Mardi Gras: A traditional Mardi Gras celebration held in Pensacola, Florida.
See these 2 Home Projects You Can Do With Your Family.
7. Newport Jazz Festival – Newport, Rhode Island
Established in 1954, the Newport Jazz Festival is one of the longest-running jazz festivals in the world.
It has featured legendary performances by artists such as Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald.
This annual event continues to attract top jazz musicians and fans from around the globe.
Other notable jazz festivals include:
i. Monterey Jazz Festival: The longest continuously-running jazz festival, held in Monterey, California.
ii. Chicago Jazz Festival: A free annual event celebrating jazz in Chicago, Illinois.
iii. Montreux Jazz Festival: A prestigious jazz festival held annually in Montreux, Switzerland.
iv. North Sea Jazz Festival: One of the largest indoor music festivals, held in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
v. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival: A major festival celebrating jazz and the cultural heritage of New Orleans.
See these homecoming dress ideas and inspiration you can try in case you are planning to attend any of the event.
9. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – Albuquerque, New Mexico
This nine-day event is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, with hundreds of balloons taking to the skies each October.
The Balloon Fiesta offers stunning visuals and unique events like mass ascensions and balloon glows, and draws visitors and pilots from around the globe.
Other notable balloon festivals include:
i. Bristol International Balloon Fiesta: The largest balloon festival in Europe, held in Bristol, UK.
ii. Adirondack Balloon Festival: Held in Glens Falls, New York, featuring spectacular balloon launches.
iii. Great Reno Balloon Race: The world’s largest free hot-air ballooning event, held in Reno, Nevada.
iv. Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift-Off: A balloon festival held in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
9. New York Fashion Week – New York, New York
One of the “Big Four” fashion weeks globally, New York Fashion Week is a semi-annual series of events showcasing international fashion collections to buyers, the press, and the public.
It features runway shows, presentations, and exclusive parties, making it a must-attend for fashion enthusiasts.
Other major fashion weeks include:
i. Paris Fashion Week: One of the most prestigious fashion events in the world, held in Paris, France.
ii. London Fashion Week: A major event in the fashion industry, held bi-annually in London, UK.
iii. Milan Fashion Week: Showcases Italian fashion and is one of the “Big Four” fashion weeks, held in Milan, Italy.
iv. Berlin Fashion Week: A key event for fashion in Germany, held bi-annually in Berlin.
v. Tokyo Fashion Week: Showcases innovative Japanese fashion, held bi-annually in Tokyo, Japan.
See how you can match your watch with your outfit to stand out as fashion icon at any of these events.
11. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally – Sturgis, South Dakota
One of the largest motorcycle rallies in the world, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is held annually in August.
It features races, concerts, and a variety of events, attracting motorcycle enthusiasts and riders to the small town of Sturgis for a week of camaraderie and celebration.
Other prominent motorcycle events include:
i. Daytona Bike Week: A motorcycle event held annually in Daytona Beach, Florida.
ii. Laconia Motorcycle Week: One of the oldest motorcycle rallies, held in Laconia, New Hampshire.
iii. Americade: A motorcycle rally held annually in Lake George, New York.
iv. Rolling Thunder: An annual motorcycle demonstration ride in Washington, D.C., honouring veterans.
v. Laughlin River Run: A motorcycle rally held annually in Laughlin, Nevada.
12. CMA Music Festival – Nashville, Tennessee
Organized by the Country Music Association, this four-day music festival is a country music lover’s paradise.
Held in June, it features performances by top country artists, fan events, and autograph sessions, celebrating the genre’s rich history and contemporary hits.
Other notable country music festivals include:
i. Stagecoach Festival: California’s premier country music festival, held annually in Indio.
ii. Country Thunder: A series of country music festivals held in various locations including Arizona and Wisconsin. Some people even consider moving to Arizona for events like this.
iii. WE Fest: A major country music festival held annually in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.
iv. Tortuga Music Festival: A country music festival held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
v. Carolina Country Music Fest: A popular festival held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
13. Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival – New York, New York
This vibrant and festive event takes place on Easter Sunday, featuring a parade where participants don elaborate and creative bonnets.
The parade is held on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan and attracts people of all ages who celebrate the holiday with colourful attire and joyful spirit.
Other notable Easter events include:
i. National Cherry Blossom Festival (Washington, D.C.): While not strictly an Easter event, it often coincides with the holiday and includes parades and celebrations.
ii. Atlanta Dogwood Festival: Held in Atlanta, Georgia, celebrating spring and often overlapping with the Easter weekend.
iii. EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival: Held at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, offering beautiful floral displays and Easter-themed activities.
iv. Easter Egg Roll at the White House: An annual event hosted by the President of the United States on the White House lawn.
v. Texas SandFest: Held in Port Aransas, Texas, it features a sand sculpture competition around the Easter holiday.
14. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an iconic annual event held in New York City on Thanksgiving Day.
It is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States.
Dating back to 1924, the parade has become a cherished tradition for millions of Americans and viewers around the world.
Beyond its entertainment value, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade symbolizes the spirit of gratitude and celebration that defines Thanksgiving.
It marks the official start of the holiday season, bringing joy and excitement to spectators of all ages.
For many families, watching the parade together has become a beloved tradition, a time to gather, bond, and create lasting memories.
On Thanksgiving morning, I snuggled with my siblings, watching giant balloons float down New York City streets on TV.
It’s a magical start to the holiday season that never fails to bring joy and wonder.
You may also be interested in 11 Best Places To Buy A House In The US.
15. Portland Rose Festival – Portland, Oregon
Celebrating the city’s nickname “City of Roses,” this festival includes parades, a rose show, dragon boat races, and a funfair.
Held annually in June, it highlights Portland’s community spirit and showcases its beautiful gardens and floral heritage.
Other notable flower festivals include:
i. Pasadena Rose Parade: A famous parade held annually in Pasadena, California, featuring elaborate flower-covered floats.
ii. Tournament of Roses: Associated with the Rose Parade, it includes a college football game.
iii. National Cherry Blossom Festival: Celebrated in Washington, D.C., marking the blooming of cherry blossoms.
iv. Tulip Time Festival: Held in Holland, Michigan, celebrating Dutch heritage and tulips.
v. Rhododendron Festival: Held in Florence, Oregon, celebrating the blooming of rhododendrons.
16. Super Bowl
The Super Bowl is the championship game of the National Football League (NFL).
Drawing millions of viewers for its high-stakes football action, halftime show extravaganzas, and memorable commercials.
The Super Bowl is an event that brings people together for a day of sports, entertainment, and camaraderie.
Imagine the excitement of hosting a Super Bowl party with friends.
Each person donned their team’s jersey, yelling at the TV with every touchdown, and indulging in various game day snacks.
It’s not just a sporting event; it’s a social gathering where rivalries are renewed and memories are made.
Can’t attend this event, worry less. See these 5 Super Tips To Start A Successful Indoor Sports Facility to feel the magic.
17. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
Coachella is one of the largest and most famous music festivals in the world.
It showcases a diverse lineup of musical acts and immersive art installations.
For music lovers and festivalgoers, Coachella is the pinnacle of live music experiences.
It features an eclectic lineup of artists, immersive art installations, and a vibrant atmosphere set against the backdrop of the California desert.
One year, my friends and I decided to take a road trip to Coachella, armed with nothing but a tent, sunscreen, and a shared love of music.
From dancing under the desert sun to discovering new favourite bands, it was an unforgettable weekend of adventure, friendship, and musical discovery that we still reminisce about to this day.
18. Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is a prestigious horse race held in Louisville, Kentucky, characterized by its lavish parties and iconic fashion.
It is known as the “Run for the Roses.”
The Kentucky Derby is steeped in tradition and pageantry.
It attracts horse racing enthusiasts and socialites alike for a day of high-stakes racing and Southern hospitality.
Attending the Kentucky Derby is like stepping back in time to a bygone era of glamour and sophistication.
I’ll never forget the thrill of watching the horses thunder down the track, surrounded by impeccably dressed racegoers sipping mint juleps and cheering on their favourites.
It’s a day of elegance and excitement that leaves a lasting impression.
Check out these 10 Ways To Make A Good First Impression.
19. Fourth of July Celebrations
It is also called “Independence Day.
Independence Day is a time for Americans to come together and celebrate the nation’s freedom and heritage.
From fireworks displays lighting up the night sky to community parades and patriotic concerts, it is a day of patriotism and celebration.
One Fourth of July, my family and I joined our neighbors for a barbecue in the backyard followed by fireworks display at the local park.
As the sky lit up with bursts of colour and patriotic music filled the air, I felt a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.
It’s a memory I’ll always hold dear.
20. New Year’s Eve in Times Square
As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, all eyes turn to Times Square for the iconic ball drop, marking the beginning of a new year with confetti, cheers, and the spirit of renewal.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with thousands of revellers in Times Square on New Year’s Eve is an experience like no other.
As the countdown begins and the crowd erupts in cheers, you can’t help but feel a sense of unity and optimism for the year ahead.
It’s a moment of collective celebration that reminds you of the power of community and hope.
You may be interested in these 9 Steps To Set Realistic New Year Resolutions.
21. The Oscars (Academy Awards)
This is Hollywood’s biggest night, the Oscars celebrate the best in film with glamour, prestige, and memorable moments that captivate audiences around the world.
22. Comic-Con International
A mecca for pop culture enthusiasts, Comic-Con brings together fans, creators, and celebrities from across the entertainment industry for a weekend of panels, cosplay, and exclusive sneak peeks.
As a lifelong comic book fan, attending Comic-Con was a dream come true.
I spent hours wandering the convention floor, meeting my favourite artists and writers, and geeking out over exclusive collectables.
It’s a place where fandom comes to life, and where you can truly be yourself among kindred spirits.
23. NBA Finals
Basketball fans eagerly anticipate the NBA Finals, where the league’s top teams compete for the championship title in a thrilling showdown of skill, strategy, and athleticism.
Watching the NBA Finals with my dad is a tradition that spans generations.
I remember sitting on the edge of our seats, cheering on our team as they battled it out on the court.
Win or lose, it’s not just about the game; it’s about bonding over a shared love of basketball and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Read more on 9 Remarkable School Ball Formal Themes.
24. The Rose Parade
Each New Year’s Day, the Rose Parade dazzles spectators with its stunning floral floats, equestrian units, and marching bands, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of participants from around the world.
Growing up in Southern California, the Rose Parade was a New Year’s Day tradition for my family.
We’d stake out our spot along the parade route early in the morning, armed with blankets and hot cocoa, eagerly awaiting the procession of colourful floats and marching bands.
It’s a tradition that holds a special place in my heart, marking the start of a new year with joy and optimism.
25. Burning Man
Burning Man is more than just a festival.
It is a temporary community built on principles of radical self-expression, art, and communal participation.
They are offering a unique experience of creativity, connection, and exploration in the Nevada desert.
Burning Man transformed me, pushing my boundaries and expanding my horizons in unexpected ways.
At Burning Man, you can freely express yourself, from art installations to sunrise parties, shedding inhibitions for a liberating experience.
Want more fun activities, read these 49 Things You Can Do Outside By Yourself? Try These Fun Activities to get some ideas.
26. NCAA Final Four
March Madness culminates in the NCAA Final Four, where college basketball teams vie for a chance to make history and cut down the nets as national champions in an electrifying display of talent and determination.
I’ll never forget the year my alma mater made it to the Final Four.
The campus was buzzing with excitement as students rallied behind the team, painting their faces in school colours and camping out for days to score tickets to the big game.
It was a moment of collective pride and school spirit that brought the entire community together.
27. Lollapalooza
With its diverse lineup of musical acts and dynamic atmosphere, Lollapalooza has become a must-attend event for music fans of all genres, offering a weekend of unforgettable performances and shared experiences in the heart of Chicago.
Attending Lollapalooza was a rite of passage for me and my friends.
We spent three days soaking up the music, dancing in the mud, and making memories that would last a lifetime.
It’s a festival that celebrates the power of live music to bring people together and create unforgettable experiences.
Check out What To Wear To A Gala As A Female.
28. The Boston Marathon
Steeped in tradition and athletic achievement, the Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon.
It draws elite runners and dedicated participants from around the globe to test their endurance and spirit on the storied course.
Crossing the finish line of the Boston Marathon was a moment of triumph and achievement that I’ll never forget.
The months of training, the miles of pavement, and the cheers of the crowd culminated in a feeling of pure elation as I realized that I had accomplished something truly extraordinary.
29. Thanksgiving NFL Games
As families gather to give thanks and feast on turkey and all the trimmings, NFL games on Thanksgiving Day provide a backdrop of excitement and tradition.
Gridiron showdowns and memorable moments add to the holiday festivities.
30. Thanksgiving Day Parade – New York, New York
Although Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is world-famous, other Thanksgiving parades also offer spectacular feelings.
For instance, the America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit and the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago offer spectacular floats, marching bands, and performances, making Thanksgiving a nationwide celebration.
Other significant Thanksgiving parades include:
i. America’s Thanksgiving Parade (Detroit): One of the largest and most celebrated parades, held in Detroit, Michigan.
ii. McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade (Chicago): A popular parade held in Chicago, Illinois.
iii. H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade (Houston): A large parade held in Houston, Texas.
iv. Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade: The oldest Thanksgiving Day parade in the US, held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
v. Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade (Charlotte): A well-attended parade held in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Wrap-up
As you must have seen, the United States boasts a remarkable array of events that cater to a wide variety of interests and passions.
From the artistic innovation of Burning Man to the cultural richness of Mardi Gras, these gatherings not only provide entertainment but also foster community and celebrate diverse aspects of American life.
Each event offers a unique glimpse into the nation’s soul, highlighting the creativity, enthusiasm, and traditions that define the American experience.
Whether you’re a music aficionado, a sports fan, or a cultural enthusiast, there’s an event in the US that promises to captivate and inspire you.
They’re like reminders of the things that bring people together, creating moments of joy and unity.
Beyond the fun, they highlight the shared values and passions that make you part of the same community.
So, go ahead and use these events to make connections, spread happiness and create memories that last a lifetime.
