A study from Remitly, a provider of digital financial services, has revealed the world’s most searched-for global celebrations and must-see events according to global Google searches from the past 12 months. With so many wonderful holidays around the world celebrating a variety of different cultures and rare must-see sights, there’s so much for travellers to experience when looking to immerse themselves in local communities whilst on their travels. 

Topping the list with over 21 million Google searches is La Tomatina, a hands-on festival held in the Valencian town of Bunol in Spain. The action-packed day involves participants getting their hands dirty as they throw tomatoes at each other purely for entertainment in one of the world’s biggest food fights. The annual event typically lasts for only an hour, although the festivities have been known to continue well into the afternoon, with attendees enjoying street parties, dancing, and music. This messy but unforgettable day is one travellers won’t forget attending. 

In second place with 18 million searches is Tet, the most important celebration in Vietnamese culture. It celebrates the arrival of spring and a fresh start, marking the first day of the Lunar New Year, which the Vietnamese prepare for by sprucing themselves and their homes. As the celebrations are centred around family and loved ones, many travel home to celebrate, so whilst travellers might find it an interesting time to visit, they might find it busier in certain destinations than usual. 

Following in third is the Day of the Dead, which is widely celebrated in Mexico, typically in November each year. The multi-day holiday sees family and friends paying their respects to loved ones who have passed on and reminiscing about those who are no longer with us. Rather than focusing on the sadness of death, participants pay homage to their loved ones and celebrate their memories in an uplifting and loving way. 

Rio Carnival ranks as the fourth most searched-for event, with the vibrant and fun-filled fiesta taking to the streets. Attracting millions of attendees since it began way back in 1723, the massive celebration is held every year before Lent and is considered to be the biggest of its kind in the world. Travellers from all around the globe travel to catch a glimpse of the street party with eye-catching costumes and impressive dances, leaving them with lasting memories. 

Rounding out the top five are Canada Day in Canada, Chinese New Year in China and Sapporo Snow Fest in Japan—all with over 8 million searches from the past 12 months. 

Three celebration days in the USA rank in the top 20, with Manhattanhenge in New York City, Mardi Gras, and the Los Angeles Pride Festival ranking eighth, 12th, and 19th, respectively. 

The Top 20 Most Searched Celebration Days And Events Around The World

For those looking for inspiration on different holidays celebrated all around the world, more information can be found online here: https://blog.remitly.com/topic/lifestyle-culture/