Feeling bored this July? You might be in the middle of your school’s summer break, or maybe you’re almost due for another vacation. Whatever the case may be, it’s time to head out into the world and try out a new adventure today. But with so many destinations available and countless places to choose from, deciding where to go this July can be a tall order.
Luckily for you, we’ve prepared this handy guide to highlight all the must-visit events happening this month. Festivals galore—each of the five listed here is sure to provide you with an enjoyable and wonderful experience. Act fast though, as these events are only taking place this month, and you might have to wait another year to experience them all again.
1. Just For Laughs Festival
If you’re looking for a hearty laugh this July, then this laugh-out-loud festival in Quebec, Canada, should be right up your alley. Comedians and performers travel from all around the world to turn the streets of Montreal into a raucous and lively place. From main headliners on the largest stages to street performers making their mark in the concrete jungle, this festival offers mime acts, theatre, acrobatics, and film, ensuring there’s plenty to do beyond just laughter. And don’t worry, the festival runs all month, with the latter half featuring more English-speaking comedians.
2. Grahamstown National Arts Festival
For a broader arts experience, head to South Africa now. This early July event showcases the best of the continent’s arts scene, featuring dance, music, film, literature, theatre, and more. It operates under an open-door policy, allowing performers and artists to showcase their work, provided they meet the financial obligations. Don’t underestimate the second-largest art festival in the world—it has a lot in store for you.
3. Pangandaran Kite Festival
For a more specific festival experience, unleash your inner child and head to Java, Indonesia, for an exhilarating day of kite flying. This seaside town on a teardrop-shaped peninsula offers the perfect setting for kite enthusiasts. Teams from around the globe prepare for months to compete here, displaying amazing kite creations against the backdrop of a vibrant beach town atmosphere filled with live music and delicious food.
4. St. Olav’s Day
Despite its name, this festival isn’t a solemn religious affair in Norway. Instead, it’s a lively spectacle featuring diverse live music ranging from jazz to country and rock, along with national delicacies available for purchase. Visitors can also enjoy exhibitions and reenactments related to the famed day and its origins. While St. Olav’s history may have its share of grim details, attending this festival on July 29 ensures you remember only the fun and festive atmosphere.
5. Darwin Beer Can Regatta
For an eco-friendly festival with a unique twist, head to Darwin in Australia. Unlike cooler parts of the country, this tropical city offers perfect beach weather, ideal for enjoying summer activities with a twist. At this festival, participants craft homemade boats out of beer cans to race, showcasing a variety of creative designs that are sure to impress—even if some end up sinking into the ocean shortly after launch. It’s a quintessentially Australian experience, combining beaches and beer in a delightful way.
