The United States values the importance of family and who doesn't love taking the whole clan out on a daylong adventure? Therefore, there are many festivals around the country that cater to spending time with your loved ones. Here are some of the top family festivals in the United States.
The yearly tall ship festival will wow both kids and adults. Once a year, tall ships from all over the world gather in Philly. You have the opportunity to see ships from America, such as, the Oliver Hazard Perry from Rhode Island and also ships that have traveled the ocean like the L'Hermione from France.
As you tour the ships, learn the history of sailing and the individual ships. These ships are anywhere from 150 to over 200 feet long, and the towering masts rise over 120 feet into the air.
The festival is full old sea shanties, games and carnival booths. It is also not usual to walk down the piers and see people dressed in period clothing. So go, get into the spirit of things and have fun!
The Tall Ship Festival takes place each year in June.
The National Cherry Festival has been running for over eighty years and draws almost half a million people every season.
There are activities for individuals regardless of age including live music, a big wheel race for the children and shuffleboard tournaments for the older crowd.
You will also be able to treat yourself to delicious food and every cherry inspired dessert you can imagine. These tasty delights range from cherry flavored drinks to homemade cherry pies and everything in between so make sure you go hungry!
The National Cherry Festival takes place July 2nd through the 9th in Traverse City, Michigan
Who doesn't love building sand castles? The Great Sand Sculpture Contest in California is perfect for people who want to treat their family to a festival but also spend time at a beach.
The Great Sand Sculpture Contest draws kids and adults of all ages who want to have fun in the sun. Spend time with your family crafting a beautiful sand structure or just marvel at the creative castles created by the other contestants. Either way you are sure to enjoy your time at the beach.
The best part is it is completely free to participate, unless you bribe the judges, which they often encourage.
The festival takes place in Long Beach, California in August.
An endless amount of ice cream awaits you at the Banana Split Festival. Once a year in Wilmington, Ohio, banana splits are taken to the next level. Add traditional toppings or add something crazier as you construct your own version of a banana split.
If you think you can master the competition, then enter into the banana split eating contest. Another highlight is watching famous chefs craft their own version of this classic America dessert.
The festival is more than banana splits though. There is a classic car show, live music and a 5k run. We have to burn those calories off somehow right?
The Banana Split Festival takes place in Wilmington, Ohio during June.
If you are out west, then you need to head to Celebrate San Antonio. This is one of the best places to spend New Years Eve. Your family will enjoy all the fun carnival games, events and parties. The fireworks are fantastic and lure over 250,000 people a year.
This festival starts on New Years Eve in San Antonio, Texas.
Looking to get your family involved in a new hobby? What better place to do it than the beach; am I right? Make sure to check out the International Surf Festival in California.
Take some lessons and learn how to ride a wave or join in the other activities like sand soccer or swimming competitions. Age is not a factor, and participants range from their early teens into their late eighties.
This event takes place on multiple beaches across California at the beginning of August.
Florida loves to celebrate their biggest crop once a year. It is a family friendly party of epic proportions celebrating strawberries. There is live entertainment and even a Strawberry Queen.
There are over sixty rides throughout the midway. Get all the berry themed desserts and other classic festival treats that your heart desires. There is also a petting zoo and numerous animal shows that teach about cows, lambs and rabbits.
This festival in Plant City, Florida lasts for ten days starting in March.
America loves to host festivals that are fun for the entire family. It allows us to spend time with our loved ones, eat tasty foods and learn how other people live.
Whether you are looking for thrilling carnival rides, sunny beach time or delicious desserts of any kind, these festivals are always a good fit for families.
These celebrations are so unique and lively that everyone will have a memorable time.
Where is your favorite festival?
Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.
Stephen Schreck is a world traveler, nomad, and adventure backpacker. Knowing a life of aimlessly wandering the globe in search of adventures was the only life for him he set out to make his dream his reality. Currently he is trying to conquer his fears and tackle his bucket list. Follow Stephen's adventures at A Backpacker's Tale or on social media on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.
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