32 Carnivals to Explore in United States

The Alligator Festival in Louisiana is an annual celebration that pays homage to the state's rich cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and unique wildlife. Alligator Festival offers a dynamic and immersive experience that celebrates Louisiana's cultural diversity, culinary excellence, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit event for locals and tourists alike.

The BAALS Music Festival, known for its acronym representing "Be At A Loss Somewhere," was a vibrant music festival held in Fort Wayne, Indiana, focusing on electronic dance music (EDM), live performances, and showcasing a diverse lineup of local and international artists.

The Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival is an annual music event held in Davenport, Iowa, dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of jazz legend Bix Beiderbecke. Established in 1971, the festival has become one of the premier jazz gatherings in the Midwest, attracting musicians, enthusiasts, and fans from around the world.

Boomershoot is an annual long-range shooting event held in Clearwater County, Idaho, known for its unique and challenging shooting experiences.It offers a unique and engaging experience for long-range shooting enthusiasts, combining precision shooting challenges with educational opportunities and a sense of camaraderie among participants.

The Brickyard 400 is an annual NASCAR Cup Series stock car race held at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana. First introduced in 1994, it quickly became one of the marquee events in NASCAR's racing calendar.

Festival International de Louisiane, commonly known as Festival International, is an annual cultural celebration held in Lafayette, Louisiana. Established in 1986, the festival has grown into one of the largest international music and arts events in the United States, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world.

Festivals Acadiens et Créoles is an annual celebration held in Lafayette, Louisiana, that honors the rich cultural heritage of Acadiana and the Creole people. Established in 1972, the festival has grown into one of the premier events celebrating Cajun and Creole music, food, and culture in the United States.

The Firefly Music Festival is a major annual music event held in Kent County, Delaware, known for its diverse lineup and vibrant atmosphere. Situated at The Woodlands in Dover, this multi-day festival features multiple stages hosting a wide range of musical acts, including renowned headliners, up-and-coming artists, and various genres such as rock, pop, indie, hip-hop, and electronic music.

The Geauga County Maple Festival is an annual event held in Geauga County, that celebrates the region's rich maple syrup heritage and agricultural traditions. This festival serves as a vibrant and cherished tradition that brings together locals and visitors to enjoy a range of activities, food, entertainment, and cultural experiences.The festival likely takes place during the maple syrup season, which typically occurs in the early spring when maple trees are tapped for their sap.

The Gretna Heritage Festival, held annually in Gretna, Louisiana, is a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community that attracts visitors from near and far. Established in1994 the festival showcases the rich heritage and diverse traditions of Louisiana's Gulf Coast region, offering a dynamic lineup of live music, culinary delights, and family-friendly activities.

The Highland Jazz & Blues Festival is an annual music festival held in the Highland neighborhood of Shreveport, Louisiana.

Hillbilly Days is an annual festival held in Pikeville, Kentucky, celebrating Appalachian culture and heritage. The event typically takes place over a weekend in April and features a variety of activities, including live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, carnival rides, and a parade.

The Kansas City Renaissance Festival is a beloved annual event held in Bonner Springs, Kansas, that transports visitors back in time to the colorful and vibrant world of the Renaissance era.

The Kentucky Apple Festival, held annually in the town of Paintsville, celebrates the rich agricultural heritage and cultural significance of apples in Eastern Kentucky.Established in 1962, the festival brings together local farmers, artisans, musicians, and community members for a weekend of festivities, showcasing the best of what the region has to offer.

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is an annual celebration held in Bardstown, Kentucky, that honors the state's signature spirit and its rich bourbon heritage. Established in [insert founding year if known], the festival has grown into one of the premier events in the bourbon industry, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world each year.

Lazerfest was an annual music festival held in Iowa that showcased a diverse lineup of hard rock and heavy metal bands. Organized by the radio station LAZER 103.3, the festival became a highly anticipated event for fans of rock music in the region.

The Long Branch Variety Show, held in Dodge City, Kansas, is a beloved entertainment event that pays homage to the rich history and vibrant culture of the American West. This annual extravaganza features a diverse array of performances, including music, dance, comedy, and theatrical reenactments, all inspired by the spirit of the Wild West.

The Louisiana Renaissance Festival, held annually in Hammond, Louisiana, is a beloved cultural event that transports visitors back in time to the vibrant world of the Renaissance era. Established in 2000, the festival offers a unique and immersive experience that combines history, entertainment, and family-friendly fun, attracting thousands of attendees each year.

The Master Musicians Festival is an annual music festival held in Somerset, Kentucky, that celebrates the artistry and creativity of musicians from diverse genres. Established in 1994, the festival has become a prominent cultural event in the region, attracting music lovers from across Kentucky and beyond.

The Old Thresher's Reunion in Iowa is a cherished annual event that pays homage to the rich agricultural and industrial heritage of the region. This renowned celebration, serves as a vibrant gathering point for communities to come together and relive the bygone era of early farming and machinery.