Cultural Festivals in Autumn

Cultural Festivals in Autumn

As the crisp air of autumn settles in, the world lights up with traditions, colours, and celebrations that bring people together in magical ways. Whether you’re drawn to festive food, cultural rituals, or once-in-a-lifetime experiences, October offers something truly special. I gathered for you four must-see cultural events happening around the globe.

Munich, Germany – Oktoberfest

Late September and early October Munich transforms into the ultimate celebration of Bavarian culture. With overflowing beer gardens, traditional folk music, hearty pretzels and sausages, and colourful parades, Oktoberfest is more than just a festival—it’s a lively expression of German heritage.

Oaxaca, Mexico – Día de los Muertos Preparations

Late October in Oaxaca, the days leading up to Día de los Muertos are filled with anticipation and beauty. Families build vibrant altars adorned with marigolds, candles, and offerings. Processions and street art bring the city alive in honor of loved ones, making this one of the most colorful and moving traditions in the world.

India in Rajasthan or Varanasi – Diwali, the Festival of Lights

Across India in October and November, Diwali transforms cities into glowing seas of light. In Rajasthan, palaces shimmer under illuminated skies, while in Varanasi, the sacred Ganges reflect thousands of flickering diyas (lamps). Fireworks, sweets, and festive gatherings mark this celebration of light overcoming darkness.

Transylvania, Romania – Halloween at Dracula’s Castle

Late October head to Bran Castle for a thrill with a touch of history. Often this is associated with the Dracula legend. As Halloween approaches, the medieval halls, misty Carpathian Mountains, and Gothic atmosphere create a spine-tingling yet enchanting experience.

Whether you’re toasting with a stein in Munich, lighting a lamp in India, or gazing at the scary Dracula castle, this season invites you to explore the world in its most colourful and festive light.

Safe travels and happy celebrations!

Vocabulary

globe – the earth (kula ziemska)

gather – bring together and take in from different places or sources (zebrać, np. informacje)

ultimate – most extreme or important because either original, or the best (największy)

overflow –not being able to accommodate by an available space because of the excess or surplus (przepełniać)

hearty – large (obfity, ogromny)

altar – a structure with a flat top, often shaped like a table, that is used in some religious ceremonies, for example to place important religious objects (ołtarz)

marigold – a plant with bright yellow or orange flowers (nagietek)

glowing – giving out steady light without flame (rozjarzony)

flickering – shining with a light that is sometimes bright and sometimes weak (migocący)

spine-tingling – thrilling or pleasurably frightening (mrowienie kręgosłupa)

stein – a large earthenware beer mug (kufel)