Travel to a new place to attend the world's best fall festivals

Posted on Wednesday 03 August 2011 in India, Italy, Japan, United States of America

Some travelers may be disappointed as the warm summer slips away into the fall season. However, this change does not mean individuals cannot plan an unforgettable travel trip during this time of year. Countries around the world are welcoming the autumn breezes and harvest times by putting together some incredible celebrations that feature the culture and customs of each unique region. Lonely Planet offers some of the highlights at international fall events.

The Festival of Lights in India, or Deepavaali, truly reaches its peak when the sun sets. Residents and visitors that represent all religions and beliefs gather together to light candles in unity and respect. At the event, thousands of flickering, illuminated flames dance along the streets and in the windows of homes. Those who participate are encouraged to let go of any past grudges and perhaps purchase a new outfit to begin again the season feeling refreshed.

Loved ones who have passed on in Mexican tradition are still very much remembered and honored at the annual Dia de los Muertos holiday in November. Iconic symbols like skulls and funeral flowers are displayed by grave sites and at small altars inside homes. Families sing, dance and decorate themselves in colorful garb and eerie face paint. The festivities take place in many villages and cities throughout Mexico.

Aussie travelers journeying with their families to Japan in November may want to experience the Shichi-Go-San celebration, the country's national tourism website reports. Called the Children's Shrine-Visiting day in English, visitors on flights to Tokyo can go to several large cities or towns to see this honor occur at the local temples and places of worship. Parents and guardians dress their kids in traditional clothes as a way to demonstrate their thanks for their health and prosperity.

Italians ring in the autumn season by commemorating one of the nation's most bountiful crops - the olive. According to National Geographic, the Olivagando celebration takes place for two days in November and is hosted by the town of Magione. Participants honor the religious feast of St. Clement that coincides with the olive harvest by hosting a large communal meal for all those involved in the production of olive oil.

The east coast of the United States boasts an array of vibrant and fun celebrations to ring in the change of season. Aussies can book a Boston car hire and visit the small Massachusetts town of Wellfleet for its Oyster Fest. According to Travel and Leisure, hundreds of guests help shuck and eat these tasty shellfish that are mostly harvested in the local region. Children can join in a kid-friendly workshop that teaches participants how to create shell jewelry or make ocean-inspired music.

Father south of the Boston area is the state of Pennsylvania, where fall foliage is at its finest in the fall. Leaves turn red, yellow and orange along the highways of this destination, which is a visual sign that the apple harvest is underway. The National Apple Harvest Festival in Arendtsville is a celebration of the sweet fruit, where locals show their appreciation through some unusual demonstrations. One event is the tractor square dance, where drivers synchronize their vehicles to perform a spectacular and unique ballet with their farm equipment.

No matter where travelers plan to visit this fall, they are bound to discover a party or two that is rejoicing the upcoming autumn months. Visitors to the various sites where these fall festivals take place will surely appreciate the culture and tradition of the people that is best seen when locals gather together in celebration.

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