15 Most Unique Festivals in the USA You Must Experience

Let me take you to the land of the unique, wonderful, and wildly entertaining—the USA! Here, festivals aren’t just events; they’re full-blown cultural explosions where quirky meets tradition. 

There’s no shortage of oddball celebrations, from the gooey goodness of the Wisconsin Grilled Cheese Championship to the bizarre Great Texas Mosquito Festival (yes, really) you’ll get many things. 

Americans have been throwing these party-like-no-other gatherings for ages and proving that there’s a festival for everyone—even if it involves flinging pumpkins or racing bathtubs. 

Festivals in the U.S. are more than just fun; they’re vibrant windows into local cultures, food, music, and pure American eccentricity. 

Millions of tourists flock here annually to dive into Mardi Gras in New Orleans, witness the Mermaid Parade or groove with Burning Man. 

Pro tip: dress for the weather, adore the local vibe, and always bring your appetite. 

Festivals in the USA aren’t just attended—they’re experienced. So, ready to join the craziest party on Earth?

Here’s the USA festival list for you!

1) Attend Burning Man Festival in Nevada

Burning Man Festival is a wild top unusual US festivals of art, self-expression, and community, and is over 35 years old! 

Burning Man Festival in Nevada
PHOTO: PINTEREST.COM/ @IGORP2202

It was born in 1986 on San Francisco’s Baker Beach and moved to the vast Black Rock Desert in Nevada in 1990. 

Since then, it’s grown into an iconic, week-long event that typically attracts 80,000+ participants. 

It is held annually in late August or early September and is a mind-bending spectacle of creativity where you can leave behind the “default world” and explore your most authentic self.

What’s special about Burning Man? Well, it’s not just a festival—it’s an experience that celebrates radical self-expression, inclusion, and a leave-no-trace philosophy. 

No corporate sponsorships, no commercial transactions, just “gifting” and sharing. 

The epic centerpiece? The ceremonial burning of a massive wooden “Man” on the penultimate night which symbolizes letting go of the past and adorning the future. 

But it’s not just about the burning; it’s also about fire-breathing art cars, funky costumes, and impromptu performances under the desert stars.

So, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in a weird, wonderful, and transformative experience, this is it! 

Get ready for extreme dust, radical outfits, and boundless creativity. And don’t forget to pack plenty of water and your most out-there costumes!

2) Celebrate the Roswell UFO Festival in New Mexico

The Roswell UFO Festival in New Mexico has been a cosmic celebration since 1996, and it’s grown into one of the most famous alien-themed festivals in America.

the Roswell UFO Festival in New Mexico
PHOTO: NEWMEXICOTRAVELGUY.COM

It honors the infamous 1947 Roswell Incident, where a UFO reportedly crashed. 

This festival is like a party for extraterrestrial enthusiasts, complete with costumes, music, UFO expert talks, and the chance to mingle with aliens—both human and not-so-human. 

Expect out-of-this-world costume contests, alien pet parades, and maybe even a “close encounter” or two!

The festival is in full swing under the hot New Mexico sun every July 4th weekend. 

So pack light clothes, but keep an eye out for UFOs (and maybe some meteor showers). The event is super affordable, often offering free or low-cost entry to most activities, though some may have a small fee.

Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, this festival is a stellar way to explore UFO lore and have some otherworldly fun. 

Get ready for alien antics, fantastic costumes, and a whole lot of spacey fun in Roswell!

3) Join the Mermaid Parade in New York

The Coney Island Mermaid Parade is a wild and whimsical annual tradition in New York that celebrated its 42nd year in 2024

Mermaid Parade in New York
PHOTO: PINTEREST.COM/ @NYDAILYNEWS

It was launched in 1983 by Coney Island USA founder Dick Zigun and has become one of the biggest and most unique art parades in the country. 

Every June, thousands gather on Surf Avenue to witness a colorful display of glittering mermaids, mermen, and all sorts of creative sea creatures strutting their stuff. 

The parade is a free-spirited celebration that combines art, performance, and community in the heart of Brooklyn’s iconic Coney Island.

It’s an inclusive, family-friendly event in mid June. If you want to get up close to the action, you can become a member of Coney Island USA for $200 and snag a prime spot in the Judge’s Stands. 

The event is as much about the costumes as it is about the performances, with everyone from locals to celebrities taking part in the procession. 

Expect to see everyone from King Neptune to Queen Mermaid in their finest (or most minimal) costumes.

So why is it called the unique festival in the USA? It’s a joyful fusion of art, celebration, and community, filled with quirky costumes, music, and a contagious festive spirit.

4) Taste the Flavors of Spam Jam in Hawaii

Spam Jam in Hawaii is a fun-filled celebration of a canned food favorite that’s been going strong for over 20 years! 

Spam Jam in Hawaii
PHOTO: PINTEREST.COM/ @MINORU10

It is held annually in Waikiki and celebrates Hawaii’s deep love affair with SPAM, which has been a staple since World War II. 

The festival, which takes place on Kalakaua Avenue, turns the street into a vibrant culinary carnival, with more than 30 local restaurants offering unique, SPAM-inspired dishes—from SPAM musubi to gourmet SPAM bao buns.

The event, typically held in late April runs from 4 PM to 10 PM. It’s not just about the food—there’s live music, hula performances, arts and crafts, and even collectible SPAM-themed merchandise. 

The festival’s proceeds benefit the Hawaii Foodbank which makes this a feel-good food fiesta!

Admission to the festival is free, though you’ll want to bring cash to sample all the delicious SPAM dishes and snag a quirky SPAM t-shirt or souvenir.

If you’re craving something truly unique and a little out-of-the-box, Spam Jam is the best quirky festival in America you won’t want to miss!

5) Marvel at the Humongous Fungus Festival in Michigan 

The Humongous Fungus Festival in Crystal Falls, Michigan, is a mushroom-tastic event that celebrates the world’s largest living organism—a giant underground fungus

Humongous Fungus Festival in Michigan 
PHOTO: CRYSTALFALLSMI.COM

This festival, which has been growing for over 30 years, honors the Armillaria gallica which is a colossal fungus that spans over 37 acres beneath the forest floor. 

It was first discovered in the late 1980s and weighs a mind-blowing 882,000 pounds. It is estimated to be at least 2,500 years old. 

Let’s Talk about fungus fame!

It is held annually in late summer, usually in July and is packed with fun, from a quirky parade to mushroom-themed activities like a cook-off and a scavenger hunt. 

There are live music performances, food stalls (hello, mushroom pizza!), and even a soapbox derby to keep things extra exciting.

If you’re a fan of mushrooms—or just looking for weird festivals in the USA  — this is perfect. 

Whether you’re foraging for fungi or enjoying the local arts and crafts, it’s a one-of-a-kind celebration that puts Crystal Falls on the map as the fungus capital of the USA! 

It’s like a forest of fun… but with more mushrooms.

6) Experience Frozen Dead Guy Days in Colorado

The Frozen Dead Guy Days festival in Colorado is one quirky celebration that you definitely won’t find anywhere else!

Frozen Dead Guy Days in Colorado
PHOTO: PINTEREST.COM/ @ATLASOBSCURA

It was born out of an unusual tale and honors Grandpa Bredo Morstøl, a Norwegian man whose body was cryonically preserved after he passed away in 1989. 

Instead of a normal burial, he was frozen and shipped to Colorado, where he spent years residing in a storage shed, forever iced. 

This bizarre story turned into a local legend, and in 2002, Nederland, Colorado decided to throw a festival to celebrate the “frozen dead guy” and the cold, frosty weather.

It is held every March and draws people to enjoy unique events like coffin races, a polar plunge, snowy human foosball, frozen turkey bowling, and even a brain freeze contest! 

It’s a quirky mix of community spirit and chilly challenges that celebrate both life and death. 

It’s a strange festival in the USA, with live music, food vendors, and plenty of wild contests. 

It is more than just a chilly event – it’s a celebration of oddities and resilience that creates a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

7) Cheer at the World Championship Punkin’ Chunkin’ in Delaware

The World Championship Punkin’ Chunkin’ is a fun and quirky event that involves teams launching pumpkins. 

the World Championship Punkin' Chunkin' in Delaware
PHOTO: PINTEREST.COM/ @LRINAUDO

They use large, gravity-powered machines—like catapults and air cannons—at targets over incredible distances. 

This competition, which originated in Delaware, has become a beloved tradition, attracting tens of thousands of spectators. 

Historically held in Sussex County, it celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2016 before moving due to legal issues with landowners and insurance challenges.

Though it faced relocation, including moving to Oklahoma in 2023, the event continues to honor its roots in Delaware. 

It promotes STEM education and community involvement, and has raised over $1 million for charities since 2000. 

So, if you’re in Delaware or anywhere near it during the season, keep an eye out for this explosive (and surprisingly educational!) festival.

8) Visit the Roadkill Cook-Off Festival in West Virginia

The West Virginia RoadKill Cook-Off is an annual event that started in 1991 in Marlinton, West Virginia. 

Roadkill Cook-Off Festival in West Virginia
PHOTO: RADSEASON.COM

It’s a popular US regional festival and unique celebration of local cuisine with a humorous twist, where chefs cook up “roadkill” dishes, such as opossum, turtle stew, and bear wontons. 

The festival is a fun mix of food, entertainment, and community spirit which draws visitors from all over to enjoy not only the wild game dishes but also live music, handmade art, and games. 

It is held every September and features a competition where local chefs vie for the title of “Roadkill Cook-Off Champion.” 

Visitors can sample the wild game dishes and vote for their favorites for $10. This quirky event is not about actually cooking roadkill but rather creating dishes inspired by it and showcasing the creativity of the local community. 

Beyond the food, the festival includes local vendors, mountain music, and a real taste of West Virginian charm. 

If you’re looking for something offbeat and full of character, it’s a must-attend US festival. It’s a true reflection of the region’s playful spirit and love of quirky traditions.

9) Compete in the National Hollerin’ Contest in North Carolina

The National Hollerin’ Contest is held in Spivey’s Corner in North Carolina and is one wild and zany celebration of an age-old art form: hollerin’! 

the National Hollerin’ Contest in North Carolina
PHOTO: WWW.PINTEREST.COM

Since 1969, this unique event has captured national attention with people gathering to showcase their loudest and most creative hollers. 

It was originally a way for rural folk to communicate across long distances before the advent of modern technology and hollering was a key part of farm life. 

Now, it’s a fun-filled festival that draws thousands to this tiny town (population: 49) each June.

What makes it a cultural festival in the USA? The contest celebrates a lost tradition while raising funds for the local volunteer fire department. 

It’s not just about yelling—there are quirky competitions like the Junior Hollerin’ Contest, Whistlin’ Contest, and even a 10-K Hollerin’ Run! 

The contest’s charm lies in its quirky fun, and yes, the whole day is an eclectic mix of music, crafts, and just plain loud fun. 

Famous guests have included President Nixon and Charles Kuralt, giving it a strong cultural footprint.

It’s held every third Saturday in June, and over the years, the contest has become a one-of-a-kind spectacle with an international flair.

10) Celebrate Cheese at the Cheese Curd Festival in Wisconsin 

The Cheese Curd Festival in Ellsworth, Wisconsin, is a delightful celebration of all things cheesy. 

the Cheese Curd Festival in Wisconsin 
PHOTO: WWW.REDDIT.COM

This festival is held annually in late June. It’s no surprise this charming town was dubbed as the “Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin” in 1984 and hosts this gooey extravaganza.

What makes it a traditional festival in the USA? First, there’s the sheer indulgence: around 6,000 pounds of fresh cheese curds are devoured during the two-day event! 

You’ll find over 20 dishes starring this dairy delicacy, alongside more than 30 ciders, and local wines to pair perfectly. 

The festival also features live music, a classic car show, and local vendor stalls which makes it an irresistible mix of food and fun.

Why is it unique? Well, it’s not every day you get to immerse yourself in the heart of Wisconsin’s dairy culture while sampling endless cheese curd creations, from deep-fried to curd-centric poutine. 

Plus, Ellsworth’s dedication to its cheesy heritage makes this festival a must-visit.

Admission is generally free, though some activities may have fees. Whether you’re a foodie or a fan of quirky festivals, the Cheese Curd Festival is worth adding to your summer plans!

11) Participate in Outhouse Races in Alaska

The Outhouse Races is a quirky highlight of Alaska’s Fur Rendezvous Festival (or “Fur Rondy”), bringing humor and competitive spirit to the chilly streets of Anchorage each February. 

Outhouse Races in Alaska
PHOTO: PINTEREST.COM/ @MOUNTAINSNC

This event has a history tied to Alaska’s playful community traditions and the festival’s long-standing celebration of winter sports and culture.

Why is it a top American festival? Teams construct themed, wheeled outhouses, often hilariously decorated, and race them down a snowy track. 

Think costumes, toilet-paper streamers, and a lot of laughter. It’s a perfect blend of creativity, athleticism, and Alaskan humor.

Visitors can enjoy not only the races but also other Fur Rondy events like the snow sculpture championships, a winter carnival, and even a fur auction. 

It’s a family-friendly affair with a touch of the wild Alaskan spirit.

Fur Rondy typically runs in late February to early March, with specific dates announced closer to the festival. 

There is no separate charge for the Outhouse Races, but some events at Fur Rondy might require a small fee or a pin for access.

What makes it a famous festival in the USA? Few places turn the mundane into such memorable fun which proves that Alaskans know how to adore winter in style!

12) Spit Pits at the Cherry Pit Spitting Championship in Michigan

The International Cherry Pit Spitting Championship is a quirky and iconic event held annually at Tree-Mendus Fruit Farm in Eau Claire, Michigan

the Cherry Pit Spitting Championship in Michigan
PHOTO: EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG

This competition was started in 1974 and celebrated Michigan’s cherry harvest season in July. 

It has gained recognition from the Guinness Book of World Records since that day. Participants compete to see who can spit a cherry pit the farthest, with record distances reaching over 30 meters.

Over the years, the event has fostered friendly rivalries and even dynasties, like the Bartz family, who have dominated recent championships. 

It’s a lighthearted competition involving minimal preparation—participants often practice casually with just a few pits leading up to the big day. 

Beyond the spitting, the event features a fun, community-driven atmosphere, perfect for families and cherry enthusiasts.

If you’re visiting, you’ll also get to enjoy the picturesque Michigan countryside and local cherry products. It’s a unique way to celebrate summer and experience truly offbeat festivals in the USA.

13) Avoid Mosquito Bites at the Great Texas Mosquito Festival

The Great Texas Mosquito Festival is an annual celebration of Texas-sized quirkiness in Clute, Texas

the Great Texas Mosquito Festival
PHOTO: WWW.FLICKR.COM

It is held over three buzzing days in late July that adores the pesky mosquito with a mix of humor, creativity, and family-friendly fun. 

Willie-Man-Chew, who is a 26-foot-tall mosquito mascot in cowboy gear, greets thousands of visitors as they enter Clute Municipal Park for the festivities.

The event features unique activities like the “Mosquito Legs” competition, where participants show off their skinny limbs, and the “Mosquito Calling” contest, where contestants hilariously summon imaginary bloodsuckers. 

There’s also a 5K “Mosquito Chase,” carnival rides, BBQ and fajita cook-offs, horseshoe tournaments, and live music performances.

Beyond the quirky competitions, visitors can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere of games, food stalls, and evening concerts by renowned artists which makes it a memorable experience for families and festival enthusiasts. 

If you’re in Texas next summer and want to experience an event as unique as the Lone Star State itself, the Great Texas Mosquito Festival is a must-see!

14) Immerse Yourself in the Texas Renaissance Festival

The Texas Renaissance Festival was founded in 1974 and is the largest Renaissance-themed event in the United States that attracts over 500,000 visitors annually. 

Texas Renaissance Festival
PHOTO: FEASTIO.COM

It spans eight weekends from October to December (plus Thanksgiving Friday in Texas). This epic celebration will transport you to a vibrant 16th-century village spread across 70 acres in Todd Mission, Texas. 

Each weekend features unique themes like Pirate Adventure, Heroes & Villains, and Celtic Christmas which ensures there’s always something new to explore.

Why is it a special celebration across the USA? Picture knights jousting, magic shows, live music, fire performances, and costumed characters strolling the cobblestone streets. 

There are over 400 shoppes offering handcrafted goods, medieval attire, and plenty of food (think turkey legs and mead!). 

There are also games like archery and axe-throwing, as well as whimsical rides for thrill-seekers. 

The festival also boasts extensive camping options, from tent sites to glamping which makes it a full weekend experience. General admission tickets range from $20-$35 depending on the date, with discounts for children and groups.

What makes it a famous American festival and holiday is the immersive atmosphere: visitors often dress up to become part of the spectacle themselves. 

It’s not just a festival; it’s a chance to live in a fantasy world for a day—or a weekend.

15) Discover BugFest in North Carolina 

BugFest in North Carolina is a delightful celebration of all things buggy that has been held annually since the mid-1990s. 

BugFest in North Carolina
PHOTO: WWW.ONLYINYOURSTATE.COM

It was organized by the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and has grown to become the largest bug-centric festival in the country. 

What makes it a fun American festival to attend? It’s not just about creepy crawlies; it’s a deep dive into the science, art, and even taste of arthropods!

It is held every September (in 2024, it was on September 14) and features over 100 exhibits. 

It has live arthropod displays, insect-themed jewelry, entomologist-led workshops, and hands-on learning for all ages. 

Café Insecta is a unique highlight where visitors can sample gourmet dishes featuring—you guessed it—bugs! 

Plus, you can check out amazing insect photography, learn about native pollinators, and even watch insect-themed movies like Mothra.

Admission is free which makes it an accessible family-friendly event. What truly sets it apart is its focus on education and fun, bringing together people of all ages to marvel at the wonders of the insect world. 

Whether you’re into butterfly pinning, learning about invasive species, or just want a quirky, memorable outing, BugFest is a must-see.

FAQs:

What are the most unique festivals in the USA?

Discover festivals like Burning Man, Mardi Gras, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, and the Kentucky Derby, each offering a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.

When is the best time to attend a festival in the USA?

The best time varies by festival, but many occur in the summer and fall, with iconic events like the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in April and Oktoberfest in Munich, Texas, in September.

What are the top quirky and unusual festivals in the USA?

Festivals like the Tomato Festival in Virginia, the National Lentil Festival in Washington, and the Cheese Rolling Festival in Wisconsin are among the quirky ones that draw curious crowds.

What are some family-friendly festivals in the USA?

Family-friendly festivals include the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., the Apple Harvest Festival in Connecticut, and the Disneyland Resort’s holiday events.

How do I prepare for a large-scale festival in the USA?

Be prepared by checking the weather, buying tickets in advance, packing essentials like sunscreen and comfortable shoes, and planning accommodations early for large festivals like Coachella or the Burning Man festival.

What unique cultural festivals can I experience in the USA?

Experience diverse cultural celebrations like the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco, the Native American Powwow in New Mexico, or the Fiesta San Antonio, a 10-day celebration of the city’s Hispanic heritage.

Final Thoughts 

The USA knows how to throw a party, and its festivals are proof! Picture this: dancing in glittery parades, chasing wheels of cheese downhill, or tossing vibrant Holi powders at strangers-turned-friends. 

From coast to coast, America’s festivals are as wild and diverse as its people. Want to groove to jazz in New Orleans at Mardi Gras? Check. 

Release glowing lanterns into a magical night sky? Done. Dive into quirky traditions and epic celebrations that keep communities buzzing and visitors grinning ear-to-ear. 

These 15 USA festivals list is all about connection, creativity, and unforgettable memories. Ready to celebrate like never before? Go and jump into the fun!

Tripvac Writing Team

Tripvac Writing Team

The Tripvac Writing Team consists of experienced travelers who prioritize thorough and insightful travel content. They explore destinations firsthand, engage with locals, and source information from verified references to bring readers up-to-date and trustworthy guides. Their expertise simplifies complex travel details, making each guide reader-friendly and ready to inform.

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