United States Joins Costa Rica, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Canada, Puerto Rico Attracting International Tourists with New Holiday Festivals That Will Steal Your Heart

Published on December 4, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

United States joins Costa Rica, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Canada, and Puerto Rico in unveiling a host of new holiday festivals, attracting international tourists that are set to steal your heart this season. These festivals bring together the magic of Christmas, the charm of winter celebrations, and the joy of cultural experiences from all corners of the world.

As the festive spirit takes over, each country is ready to present unique and unforgettable events that will captivate your senses. From dazzling light displays in the United States to vibrant musical festivities in Costa Rica, there is something for everyone. Mexico, Brazil, and Peru offer fresh ways to experience holiday cheer, while Canada and Puerto Rico introduce new traditions to celebrate the season.

Travel And Tour World urges you to read on and discover which new festival will steal your heart and make this holiday season truly magical.

The year 2025 is bringing new magic and wonder to cities and towns worldwide as December ushers in a stunning array of brand-new festivals. From the twinkling holiday lights of the US to the spectacular cultural celebrations in Costa Rica and Mexico, there’s never been a better time to experience the festive spirit at its best.

Here’s everything you need to know about the most exciting new holiday festivals, and why 2025’s lineup is unlike any other. Get ready to mark your calendars because these jaw-dropping events are the ones everyone will be talking about!

A Dazzling Array of US Festivals: Christmas Magic Like Never Before!

The United States is kicking off December with some extraordinary new festivals that will steal your heart. From the charming streets of Arkansas to the bustling festivals in Massachusetts, these celebrations are redefining the traditional Christmas and winter experience.

It’s a Wonderful Bryant – Christmas Tree Lighting Festival in Arkansas

The City of Bryant, Arkansas, is hosting its very first Christmas tree lighting festival on December 4, 2025. This event, aptly named “It’s a Wonderful Bryant”, promises to light up the night with a giant Christmas tree, performances by local school choirs, and the kind of holiday magic that makes you feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie. Families will enjoy free holiday treats and a visit from Santa himself. It’s not just about the lights – attendees can donate ornaments to the “Tribute Tree” and support local businesses, making this a heartfelt and festive experience.

Swampscott Festival of Trees – A Community Celebration in Massachusetts

In Swampscott, Massachusetts, the brand-new Swampscott Festival of Trees is bringing holiday cheer from December 1–6, 2025. This first-ever festival invites local businesses and residents to decorate artificial trees and wreaths for display. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this vibrant festival is a magical experience filled with Christmas spirit. By supporting the community and showcasing creativity, it’s a festival designed to unite everyone in the warmth of the season.

Olmsted Light Festival (E.L.F.) – A Drive-Through Holiday Lights Experience in Minnesota

One of the most innovative and stunning events of 2025 is the Olmsted Light Festival (E.L.F.), a drive-through holiday light display. Located at Chester Woods Park Campground Loop in Minnesota, this event runs from December 5–21, 2025. Sponsored by local businesses, this festival transforms the campground into a winter wonderland of glimmering lights and holiday magic. It’s not just about the dazzling lights – this festival raises funds for community causes, making it a celebration that gives back.

Festival of Trees – Fairy Stone State Park, Virginia

The Festival of Trees at Fairy Stone State Park in Stuart, Virginia, is set to impress from December 13–14, 2025. The first annual festival invites visitors to vote for their favorite tree by donating food and pet supplies. It’s a touching way to combine the holiday spirit with giving back to those in need, as donations go toward disaster relief and humane society support.

Costa Rica’s New Festivals: Bringing Culture and Music to Every Corner

Costa Rica’s Ministry of Culture and Youth (MCJ) is leading the way in creating new cultural experiences for all to enjoy. These new festivals, set in various regions of Costa Rica, aim to expand access to art and culture, making them not to be missed!

Costa Rica Canta – Festival de Coros (Choral Festival)

The Costa Rica Canta festival is making waves as the country’s new musical celebration. Running from December 2–7, 2025, with workshops and performances across the country, this new event is all about bringing communities together through song. From Puntarenas to San José, the event showcases the power of music to unite, with performances that will leave you breathless.

Sonograma – Festival de Sonido Experimental in San José

The Sonograma Festival in San José on December 6–7, 2025, is for the experimental music lovers. It’s a thrilling journey into sound, where 13 artists will explore innovative and avant-garde soundscapes at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design. If you’re looking for a festival that’s as unique as it is exciting, Sonograma is where you need to be.

Mexico’s Creative Explosion: A New Forum for Artists

In Puebla, Mexico, the Foro Nacional de Creadores 2025 is taking place from December 4–7, 2025. This new national forum brings together creators from all disciplines for performances, exhibitions, and dialogues. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a culture seeker, this festival will provide a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage with the public. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the creativity and vibrancy of Mexico’s artistic community.

Brazil’s New Festivals: A Thriving Culture of Lights and Fashion

Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism has launched several first editions of festivals that will take the country by storm this December. These new events reflect Brazil’s rich cultural heritage, blending modernity with tradition in an unforgettable way.

Encontro Mineiro de Ferreomodelismo – The First Railway-Model Enthusiasts Festival

If you’re fascinated by model trains, don’t miss the Encontro Mineiro de Ferreomodelismo festival in Minas Gerais, running until December 21, 2025. This festival celebrates Brazil’s rich railway history, with exhibits, contests, and workshops that will engage the entire family. It’s the perfect blend of history and fun.

Sustainable Fashion Week in Brazil: A Bold Step for Eco-Fashion Lovers

From June to December 31, 2025, Brazil will host the 1ª Semana de Moda Sustentável do Circuito de Brechós (Sustainable Fashion Week), where the world of eco-fashion meets Brazil’s thrifting culture. The festival promotes the reuse of clothing and sustainable fashion practices, combining chic style with an eco-conscious message.

Canada’s New Winter Wonderland Festivals: Light Up the Season

The city of Langford, British Columbia, is introducing the Langford Winter Festival starting December 5, 2025. This brand-new festival is everything you’ve ever wanted in a winter holiday celebration: festive lights, live music, local vendors, and a holiday carousel. The event will culminate in a market on December 6–7, 2025. All proceeds from this charming celebration will benefit the South Island Primary Care Society, making it a holiday event that gives back.

Safety First: Festival Safety Incidents in 2025

While the joy of new festivals is undeniable, safety is always a top priority. In 2025, there were a few incidents that reminded organizers of the importance of safety protocols.

• Mexico: The Ceremonia 2025 music festival saw a tragic accident when a decorative structure collapsed, tragically taking the lives of two photojournalists.
• Canada: At the Filipino Lapu Lapu Day Festival, a vehicle plowed into the crowd, resulting in multiple fatalities. The tragic incident underscored the importance of security at festivals.
• United States (North Carolina): The Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival saw a propane gas leak cause an explosion in a food truck, injuring two workers. Thankfully, the festival continued without major disruption, but the incident reminded all festival organizers to prioritize safety.

A World of New Festivals Await You

December 2025 brings a dazzling array of new festivals that promise to make this holiday season the most unforgettable one yet. From the lights of the U.S. to the unique cultural celebrations of Costa Rica, Mexico, and Brazil, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays with family or diving into a world of new music and art, these first-edition festivals offer a fresh and exciting way to experience the magic of the season. Don’t miss out on these incredible events – your perfect holiday awaits!