The Coolest April Festivals You’ve Never Heard Of
Forget Coachella and cherry blossoms — April is full of unexpected festivals around the world that are quirky, colorful, and crowd-free. If you're looking to time your travels with something memorable (and very Instagrammable), these under-the-radar celebrations will make your spring unforgettable.
From flamenco to flower power, here are the April festivals you probably never heard of — but should definitely check out.
✍️ Noah · April 4, 2025
🇳🇱 Tulip Festival – Noordoostpolder, Netherlands
When: Mid-April
Why it’s cool: While Amsterdam’s Keukenhof steals the spotlight, this lesser-known tulip region in Flevoland offers endless fields of color without the busloads of tourists. Rent a bike and ride through 100+ km of blooming tulip routes.
TripplTip: Stay overnight in a nearby village for sunrise photos in total peace.
🇪🇸 Feria de Abril – Seville, Spain
When: Usually two weeks after Easter
Why it’s cool: Think flamenco dresses, horse parades, tapas, and all-night dancing. It’s a week-long Andalusian celebration filled with tradition, music, and plenty of rebujito (sherry + lemon soda). Each day starts classy, ends wild.
TripplTip: Rent or borrow traditional attire — you’ll blend in and get better vibes.
🇯🇵 Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival – Aomori, Japan
When: Late April to early May
Why it’s cool: Tokyo gets all the hype, but Hirosaki Park in Japan’s far north is a sakura dream. Think cherry blossom moats, petals floating on water, and fewer tourists. Bonus: food stalls + nighttime light-ups.
TripplTip: Visit the Hirosaki Castle for the best hanami picnic experience.
🇭🇺 Budapest Spring Festival – Hungary
When: Mid to late April
Why it’s cool: A mix of classical music, jazz, dance, and street culture. This artsy event takes over entire neighborhoods with pop-up concerts, installations, and creative chaos. Budapest becomes a living gallery.
TripplTip: Use the Budapest Card for free transport + festival discounts.
🇲🇽 San Marcos Fair – Aguascalientes, Mexico
When: Late April into May
Why it’s cool: One of Mexico’s biggest festivals — and most international travelers miss it. Rodeos, live music, artisan markets, and massive street parties make this a fiesta to remember.
TripplTip: Great for those seeking a local cultural immersion with party energy.
🎭 Honorable Mentions:
Snowbombing (Austria): Snowy slopes meet EDM music festival in April.
Floralia (Belgium): A flower festival in a castle garden near Brussels.
Walpurgis Night (Germany/Sweden): April 30th pagan-style celebration with bonfires and music.
📅 Why Festival-Travel in April Works:
It’s shoulder season → cheaper flights + fewer tourists.
Many local events aren’t overrun by international crowds.
You’ll come back with stories that no one else is telling.
✍️ This blog was written by Noah.
