5 Awesome Cultural Festivals in the USA & Canada

Think twice about crossing an ocean next time you want to experience some culture!  While not in any order, these festivals will provide you with an authentic cultural experience close to home.  In my personal experience, the best festivals I've been to were in Montreal.  This is the rundown of TWiBT's Top Festivals in North America!

1.)  Mardi Gras - New Orleans, Louisiana



Celebrated as early as 1699 in New Orleans, the festival is held annually in February.  The original purpose was for Catholics to have a last bit of festivities before they'd begin their fasting for Lent.  It is debatable whether that is still what the festival is about, but you can be assured you'll see some interesting things.

2.)  Burning Man - Black Rock Desert, Nevada



This festival in the middle of a Northern Nevada desert is most known for the burning of the 40 foot tall wooden man.  The true purpose of the festival is to promote self-reliance & self-expression through art or just the opportunity to simply be yourself.  Participants are discouraged from using cash at the festival and should participate in giving gifts instead.  Expect to see the other side of people, and expect to be HOT (it is the desert!)

3.)  Just For Laughs Festival - Montreal, Quebec



My personal favorite festival, which I actually discovered by accident when I was in Montreal.  We arrived late in the afternoon and after taking a short nap, I took a walk to try and find a grocery store.  After turning a corner, I stumbled upon this massive street festival.  This festival features 11 days worth of comedy-related performances in both English & French.  Definitely a must see!

4.)  Calle Ocho - Miami, FL



Miami has the largest Cuban population outside of Cuba.  Miami is a good town for parties.  Cubans like to party.  Enough said?  Cuban food is AMAZING too!

5.)  Puerto Rican Day Parade - New York, NY



Celebrating Puerto Rican culture in America. Takes place along 5th Avenue in New York City.

There ya go! 5 unique cultural experiences in the United States & Canada celebrating culture and arts. While this was not meant to rate any one culture against another, feel free to leave comments about any cool North American festivals you've been to!

-Jason of TWiBT