Experience the Best of Springtime Across America With These Must-See Festivals
Spring is a great time to hit the road and explore some of the most exciting festivals and events across the country. For vanlifers, this is the perfect opportunity to experience unique and fun celebrations while enjoying the freedom of the open road. Whether you’re a full-time van dweller or just enjoying van life on weekends, attending these festivals can add excitement to your travels. From music festivals to food fairs, here are some of the best spring festivals and events for vanlifers to attend.
Spring Festivals Across the Nation
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – New Orleans, Louisiana
Also known as Jazz Fest, this iconic festival takes place in late April and early May. The festival features a diverse lineup of jazz, blues, and other genres of music, as well as delicious food and art exhibits.
National Cherry Blossom Festival – Washington D.C.
In late March and early April, the National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the arrival of spring in the nation’s capital. RVers can take in beautiful cherry blossoms, parades, and cultural events.
Kentucky Derby Festival – Louisville, Kentucky
The Kentucky Derby Festival is a two-week celebration leading up to the famous horse race. Spectators can enjoy a variety of events including the Thunder Over Louisville airshow and fireworks display.
Spring at Biltmore – Asheville, North Carolina
In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Biltmore Estate hosts a beautiful spring festival in late March and early April. Event-goers can stroll through the stunning gardens, take a tour of the historic mansion, and enjoy live music.
Texas Sandfest – Port Aransas, Texas
In late April, the Texas Sandfest showcases the incredible sand sculptures created by some of the world’s top artists. Witness the artistry and creativity on display while basking in the warm weather and beautiful beaches of Port Aransas.
Coachella – Indio, California
One of the most famous music festivals in the world, Coachella takes place over two weekends in April. The festival attracts some of the biggest names in music and offers a unique experience in the heart of the California desert.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – Orlando, Florida
At Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival, RVers can enjoy stunning displays of flowers and topiaries, as well as food and drink from around the world. The festival takes place from early March to late May.
Even More Spring Festivals & Events
Pella Tulip Time – Pella, Iowa
The Pella Tulip Time festival celebrates Dutch heritage and the arrival of spring with thousands of tulips in full bloom. RVers can enjoy parades, food, and traditional Dutch clothing and dance performances.
Atlanta Dogwood Spring Festival – Atlanta, Georgia
In mid-April, RVers can enjoy the beauty of the blooming dogwood trees at the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. The festival features live music, art exhibits, and delicious food.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – Mount Vernon, Washington
In April, RVers can witness the beautiful tulip fields in full bloom at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. The festival features guided tours, live music, and a variety of food vendors.
Arkansas Folk Festival – Mountain View, Arkansas
The Arkansas Folk Festival celebrates the state’s rich cultural heritage with music, dancing, and traditional crafts. RVers can also enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains in late April.
Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Illinois
One of the most iconic St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the world takes place in downtown Chicago and features colorful floats, lively music, and traditional Irish dancers. But the main attraction is the Chicago River, which is famously dyed bright green to mark the occasion.
Earth Day – San Francisco, California
Attendees can participate in a variety of activities, such as planting trees, learning about conservation efforts, and enjoying live music and food. The festival also features exhibits on green technology and renewable energy, as well as a parade and a march to raise awareness for environmental causes.
Indiana Dunes Birding Festival – Chesterton, Indiana
Held annually in May, this festival celebrates the arrival of spring birds with guided birding tours, workshops, and live music.
Holi Spring Festival – Multiple Locations
Holi is a Hindu spring festival also known as the “Festival of Colors.” Celebrated in multiple locations around the world, vanlifers will be transported to a vibrant festival of colorful powder, music, and dancing.
Boston Marathon – Boston, Massachusetts
For vanlifers who love fitness, the Boston Marathon is a bucket list event. Park your van near the route and cheer on the runners, or if you qualified, get your running shoes laced up for the race.
Need Help Planning Your Spring Adventures? We Can Help!
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Rev Up Your Vanlife With Spring Festivals and Events
As a vanlifer, there’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than by attending some of the most exciting spring festivals and events across the country. From Coachella to the Biltmore Spring Gardens, these celebrations offer something for everyone. So pack up your van and hit the road to experience the unique sights, sounds, fragrances, and flavors of these spring festivals. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family, the memories you create on the road will last a lifetime.
What spring festivals and events have you experienced? Share your adventures in the comments below.
We’re at Paulk Winery (paulkvineyards.com) in south Georgia, about 45 minutes east of I-75. Tomorrow they’re hosting the South Georgia Wine Festival, with about six different wineries, multiple food trucks and other vendors. They’re Harvest Hosts, super nice (they brough us some freshly picked strawberries to enjoy) and we’re parked in a field by the grapes. We’re so looking forward to tomorrow’s festival.