- Travel
Get ready to stop being a spectator and start being a participant. These 10 experiences — for 2024 and beyond — will have you flying, partying, painting, swimming, dancing and racing.
Published December 21, 2023
7 min read
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
One of the most rewarding ways to plan a trip is by building it around a specific event connected to a deep interest or passion. Taking part in something meaningful on your travels creates a unique connection with a destination that can lead to memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s testing your athletic derring-do in an ultra-marathon in Peru or whipping out your spray cans at a graffiti festival in Bristol, we’ve rounded up some of the most exciting events for you to participate in for 2024.
1. International Kite Festival
Gujarat, India
8-14 January
Kite-makers from around the world launch their creations at this jubilant celebration of the return of sunshine after winter. You’ll enjoy traditional styles from Japanese rokkaku (fighting kites) to Malaysian wau bulan (moon kites). Locals and visitors get involved, too — so bring your kite and join in. The festival takes place in Ahmedabad; Gujarat state’s largest metropolis and a UNESCO World Heritage City.
2. Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
Sydney, Australia
16 February to 3 March
A parade on 2 March — led by First Nations peoples, Dykes on Bikes and 78ers (the folks who founded Mardi Gras in 1978) — is the highlight of Australia’s foremost Pride event. The LGBTQ+ community celebrates love and community in a glittering ceremony, and visitors are encouraged to join the revelry. Actual glitter is banned for environmental reasons, and attendees are asked to pick up sparkle-wear at secondhand shops.
3. Ride Africa Kenya: Mara Calling
Rift Valley, Kenya
15-22 November 2025
Wheeling from Lake Nakuru to the Maasai Mara, this expert-led, 310-mile, seven-day route takes up to 60 cyclists through Lake Elementaita, Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate and Narok. It’s held to raise funds for the Child.org charity, which supports neonatal care in the country. Run in conjunction with the Kenyan Wildlife Service, the event can include a large number of animals sightings. Application required.
4. Jungle Ultra
Manú National Park, Peru
2-10 June
With racers facing 143 miles of dense Amazon rainforest — and even denser heat and humidity — this is among the toughest ultramarathons. Navigating such terrain demands resilience and determination, but the camaraderie of the trail team will keep you going. Peru’s nearly four-million-acre national park comprises diverse tropical habitats, including cloud forest and Andean grassland ecosystems. Application required.
5. Lakia-Jukola Orienteering Relay
Kauhava, Finland
15-16 June
This is one for old-school explorers,