Enjoy themed cruises paired with exhilarating festival experiences, immersing yourself in local celebrations and vibrant cultural events.
Celebrate vibrant festivals and world-renowned events with Cruise1st’s themed cruise packages. Combining festive cruise voyages with land stays, flights, and exclusive event access, we create immersive experiences. Join colourful parades, cultural celebrations, and spectacular performances all while enjoying modern comfort and tailored itineraries.
Activity Level
Medium
Experience Type
City tours
Region
India , Japan, South America
Duration
11-35 Nights
Age Range
5-45+
Participate in the world’s most vibrant world celebrations with Cruise1st’s Festival & Events Experiences! Imagine celebrating Golden Week in Japan, exploring Mt. Fuji’s majesty, and discovering South Korea on Elegant Horizons aboard Celebrity Millennium. Immerse yourself in Gion’s timeless traditions and luxury in Kyoto on Gion Elegance, also on Celebrity Millennium. Journey through India’s Golden Triangle, experiencing the colourful Holi Festival before cruising the glittering Emirates with a Dubai stay on MSC Euribia. Or, join the ultimate party on Carnival on the High Seas: Mardi Gras Meets the Caribbean on Carnival Valor. These packages include flights, hotels, tours, transfers, and your unforgettable cruise! Book your Festival & Events Experience today!
Expert Tip
Wear traditional or comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little colourful or dusty—locals often wear lightweight cotton kimono or loose kurtas. Check the weather forecast—spring festivals can be unpredictable. For Holi, a simple tip: carry a small bottle of water and a towel—you’ll want to rinse off after the colours settle.
Jasper
Cruise Specialist
Get in touch with our cruise expert
Mon-Fri 9am-9pm | Sat-Sun 9am-7pmElegant Horizons: Golden Week in Japan, Mt. Fuji & South Korea
17 nights
From Tokyo To Tokyo
Celebrity Millennium
28/04/2026 - 15/05/2026
Cruise
Flight
Hotel
from
£3,199
pp
Beaches, Breezes & Bourbon Street: A Halloween Voyage to the Soul of the South
28 nights
From Southampton, England To Galveston
Regal Princess
08/10/2025 - 05/11/2025
Cruise
Flight
Hotel
Tour
from
£2,499
pp
Carnival on the High Seas: Mardi Gras Meets the Caribbean
11 nights
From New Orleans To New Orleans
Carnival Valor
16/02/2026 - 27/02/2026
Cruise
Flight
Hotel
from
£1,699
pp
Sun, Sea & Samba: Barbados to Brazil with Rio Carnival & Helicopter Adventure
35 nights
From Barbados To Buenos Aires
Azamara Quest
15/01/2026 - 19/02/2026
Cruise
Flight
Hotel
All Inclusive
Drinks
Tips
from
£7,199
pp
Nebuta Nights & Cultural Delights: A Luxury Insight of Aomori, South Korea & Kyoto
17 nights
From Yokohama (Tokyo) To Tokyo
Celebrity Millennium
21/07/2026 - 07/08/2026
Cruise
Flight
Hotel
from
£3,599
pp
Hamilton on Broadway & Statue of Liberty Views: New York City & Tropical Caribbean Cruise
14 nights
From New York, United States To New York, United States
Island Princess
26/08/2025 - 09/09/2025
Cruise
Flight
Hotel
Tour
from
£2,049
pp
What happens in India during Holi?
Holi, known as the Festival of Colours, is a vibrant and joyful celebration that marks the arrival of spring. During Holi, people throw colourful powders and water at each other, dance to lively music, and enjoy festive treats. It’s a time for forgiveness, renewal, and community, with streets bursting in a kaleidoscope of colours and happiness.
What happens in Japan during Golden Week?
Golden Week is a series of national holidays in Japan, usually in late April to early May, when the country celebrates with festivals, family gatherings, and travel. Many people take the opportunity to visit tourist sites, enjoy seasonal events, and participate in traditional celebrations. It’s a lively time to experience Japanese culture and see popular destinations bustling with activity.
How is the Nebuta festival celebrated?
The Nebuta Festival, held in Aomori in August, is famous for its spectacular illuminated floats called Nebuta. These massive, colourful lantern floats depicting warriors, gods, and mythological figures are paraded through the streets, accompanied by traditional music, dance, and lively crowds. The celebration is a vibrant showcase of Japanese artistry and festive spirit, culminating in energetic performances and fireworks.
What to bring to Rio Carnival?
For Rio Carnival, pack colourful costumes, comfortable shoes for dancing and walking, and some cash for souvenirs or snacks. Many attendees wear costumes or accessories to join in the festive spirit, so consider bringing glitter, feathers, or masks. A small bag or backpack for essentials and sun protection like sunscreen and a hat will also make your experience more enjoyable.
How long does Mardi Gras last in New Orleans?
Mardi Gras in New Orleans typically lasts for several weeks, with the main celebrations happening in the last few days before Fat Tuesday. The festivities include parades, balls, music, and parties from early February through Fat Tuesday itself, which falls on a different date each year. It’s a lively, colourful celebration that captures the city’s joyful spirit!
What does a Cruise1st Festival & Events Experience include?
*Cruise1st Festival & Events Experiences inclusions can vary between packages, but typically these include airfare, transfers, hotel stays, cruise fare, land tour, event ticket entry and various meals per person. Please speak with your Cruise Specialist when booking for more details on your exact package inclusions.