When it comes to music, the world is full of vibrant destinations and festivals that offer a unique and unforgettable experience. While the USA and Europe are known for their iconic music scenes, there are plenty of other places around the globe that are worth exploring. From rhythmic carnivals to electrifying concerts, here are 30 must-visit music destinations and festivals worldwide, excluding the USA and Europe.
1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Rio Carnival
Month: February
The Rio Carnival is one of the biggest and most famous carnivals in the world. This vibrant event showcases the rich Brazilian culture through music, dance, and elaborate costumes. Visitors can expect samba parades, street parties, and a lively atmosphere that will leave them in awe.
2. Salvador, Brazil – Salvador Carnival
Month: February
Known as the biggest street party on the planet, the Salvador Carnival in Brazil is a high-energy event that celebrates Afro-Brazilian culture. With music genres like axé and samba-reggae, visitors can dance the night away and immerse themselves in the infectious rhythms of Brazil.
3. Kingston, Jamaica – Reggae Sumfest
Month: July
Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae music, hosts the Reggae Sumfest every year. This festival brings together some of the biggest names in reggae, dancehall, and soca music. Visitors can expect a laid-back atmosphere, soulful melodies, and the chance to experience the true essence of Jamaican music.
4. Tokyo, Japan – Fuji Rock Festival
Month: July
The Fuji Rock Festival is Japan’s largest outdoor music event and attracts music lovers from all over the world. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Naeba Ski Resort, this festival features a diverse lineup of international and local artists across various genres. Visitors can enjoy live music, beautiful scenery, and the unique Japanese festival culture.
5. Cape Town, South Africa – Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Month: March/April
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is a premier jazz event that showcases both local and international talent. Held in the picturesque city of Cape Town, visitors can indulge in smooth jazz melodies while enjoying breathtaking views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean.
6. Salvador, Brazil – Lavagem do Bonfim
Month: January
Lavagem do Bonfim is a religious festival in Salvador, Brazil, where music and spirituality come together. Visitors can witness the colorful procession, listen to traditional Bahian music, and immerse themselves in the cultural traditions of Brazil.
7. Havana, Cuba – Havana Jazz Festival
Month: January
The Havana Jazz Festival is a celebration of Cuba’s rich musical heritage, featuring jazz performances by renowned international and local artists. Visitors can enjoy the infectious rhythms of Cuban jazz while exploring the vibrant streets of Havana.
8. Buenos Aires, Argentina – Buenos Aires Tango Festival
Month: August
The Buenos Aires Tango Festival is a must-visit for tango enthusiasts. This festival celebrates the passion and elegance of tango through live performances, dance workshops, and milongas (tango social dances). Visitors can immerse themselves in the seductive world of tango and experience the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires.
9. Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – Trinidad Carnival
Month: February/March
The Trinidad Carnival is a colorful explosion of music, dance, and Caribbean culture. Visitors can join in the festivities by donning vibrant costumes, dancing to the infectious soca and calypso beats, and experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Trinidadian people.
10. Marrakech, Morocco – Atlas Electronic Festival
Month: August
The Atlas Electronic Festival in Marrakech combines electronic music with the enchanting atmosphere of Morocco. Visitors can enjoy a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Atlas Mountains.
11. Havana, Cuba – Festival del Habano
Month: February
The Festival del Habano is a celebration of Cuban cigars and the art of cigar-making. This festival features live music performances, cigar tastings, and cultural events, providing visitors with an immersive experience of Cuban traditions.
12. Salvador, Brazil – Festival de Verão Salvador
Month: December/January
The Festival de Verão Salvador is one of Brazil’s biggest music festivals, attracting a diverse lineup of national and international artists. Visitors can enjoy a mix of music genres, from pop and rock to samba and reggae, in a lively and festive atmosphere.
13. Cape Town, South Africa – Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts
Month: November to April
The Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts take place in the stunning Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Visitors can relax on the lush lawns, surrounded by the beauty of nature, while enjoying live performances by local musicians.
14. Kingston, Jamaica – Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival
Month: January
The Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival is a celebration of jazz, blues, and R&B music in the heart of Jamaica. Visitors can groove to soulful melodies, indulge in delicious Jamaican cuisine, and experience the warmth and vibrant energy of the island.
15. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Rock in Rio
Month: September
Rock in Rio is one of the largest music festivals in the world, bringing together rock, pop, and alternative music genres. Visitors can enjoy electrifying performances by international superstars while immersing themselves in the energetic atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro.
16. Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – Tobago Jazz Experience
Month: April
The Tobago Jazz Experience is a fusion of jazz, reggae, soca, and calypso music set against the beautiful backdrop of Tobago’s beaches. Visitors can soak up the sun, enjoy live music performances, and experience the laid-back island vibes.
17. Havana, Cuba – Festival Internacional de Danza en Paisajes Urbanos
Month: April
The Festival Internacional de Danza en Paisajes Urbanos is a unique dance festival that takes place in the streets of Havana. Visitors can witness captivating dance performances in urban settings, showcasing the creativity and talent of Cuban dancers.
18. Salvador, Brazil – Festival de Música Instrumental da Bahia
Month: November
The Festival de Música Instrumental da Bahia celebrates instrumental music from various genres, including jazz, classical, and Brazilian folk. Visitors can appreciate the virtuosity of musicians and experience the cultural diversity of Bahia.
19. Kingston, Jamaica – Rebel Salute
Month: January
Rebel Salute is a roots reggae music festival that promotes conscious music and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy uplifting performances by reggae artists, indulge in organic food, and embrace the positive vibes of Jamaica.
20. Havana, Cuba – Festival Internacional de Ballet de La Habana
Month: October/November
The Festival Internacional de Ballet de La Habana showcases the world-class talent of Cuban ballet dancers. Visitors can witness breathtaking performances by renowned ballet companies and experience the grace and beauty of classical ballet.
21. Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – Steelpan and Calypso Music Festival
Month: February
This festival celebrates the iconic steelpan and calypso music of Trinidad and Tobago. Visitors can enjoy lively performances, learn about the history of steelpan, and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the islands.
22. Salvador, Brazil – Festival de Verão de Salvador
Month: January
The Festival de Verão de Salvador is a lively music festival that brings together a mix of genres, including axé, pagode, samba, and funk. Visitors can dance to the infectious rhythms of Brazilian music and experience the vibrant energy of Salvador.
23. Havana, Cuba – Festival Internacional Jazz Plaza
Month: December/January
The Festival Internacional Jazz Plaza is a celebration of jazz music in Cuba, featuring performances by international and local jazz artists. Visitors can enjoy soulful melodies, explore the historic streets of Havana, and immerse themselves in the vibrant Cuban jazz scene.
24. Cape Town, South Africa – Cape Town International Music Festival
Month: November
The Cape Town International Music Festival showcases a diverse range of music genres, from jazz and classical to hip-hop and electronic. Visitors can enjoy live performances by local and international artists, surrounded by the natural beauty of Cape Town.
25. Kingston, Jamaica – Reggae Month
Month: February
Reggae Month is a month-long celebration of reggae music and the legacy of Bob Marley in Jamaica. Visitors can attend concerts, exhibitions, and workshops that pay tribute to the iconic genre and its cultural significance.
26. Marrakech, Morocco – Marrakech Popular Arts Festival
Month: July
The Marrakech Popular Arts Festival celebrates Moroccan music, dance, and folklore. Visitors can experience traditional performances, colorful parades, and the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech’s medina.
27. Salvador, Brazil – Festival de Verão do Samba
Month: February
The Festival de Verão do Samba is a celebration of samba music, one of Brazil’s most iconic genres. Visitors can witness energetic samba performances, learn to dance the samba, and immerse themselves in the lively spirit of Salvador.
28. Havana, Cuba – Festival Internacional de Guitarra de La Habana
Month: April
The Festival Internacional de Guitarra de La Habana showcases the talent of guitarists from around the world. Visitors can enjoy mesmerizing guitar performances, attend masterclasses, and explore the musical heritage of Cuba.
29. Cape Town, South Africa – Cape Town International Reggae Festival
Month: December
The Cape Town International Reggae Festival brings together reggae artists from South Africa and beyond. Visitors can groove to the rhythm of reggae music, enjoy live performances, and experience the laid-back vibes of Cape Town.
30. Kingston, Jamaica – Jamaica Carnival
Month: April
Jamaica Carnival is a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, featuring colorful costumes, lively music, and energetic parades. Visitors can join in the festivities, dance to soca and dancehall beats, and experience the joyous spirit of Jamaica.
These 30 music destinations and festivals worldwide offer a diverse range of experiences for music enthusiasts. From the pulsating rhythms of Brazil to the soulful melodies of Jamaica and the enchanting sounds of Cuba, these destinations showcase the rich cultural heritage and vibrant music scenes of their respective countries. Whether you’re a fan of reggae, jazz, tango, or electronic music, there’s a festival waiting to captivate your senses and create memories that will last a lifetime.
