Holidays, festivals, celebrations and more – this is why I’m #teamslowtravel.

If you’re thinking that you can always plan your trips around holidays or festivals, you’re right. But one of my favorite parts about slow travel is that not only can you see the big festivals, but you can really dive into some really awesome events that only the locals know to attend.

Whatever kind of traveler you are, we all struggle with super touristy seasons. It is hard to escape crowds and get that truly authentic experience when you visit during high peak season. You’re still right though, planning trips around holidays and events is a great way to travel, even with the excessive crowds and inflated prices. Bastille Day in Paris was absolutely one of my most favorite days I’ve ever had traveling. I knew there was going to be a wait and loads of people, so I just prepared myself for it in advance and knew what I was getting myself into before actually committing.

BUT! While these events are amazing, they are not once in a lifetime. Holidays and festivals usually happen every year. Local weddings, cookouts, talent shows, smaller holidays, familial traditions – these are actually once in a lifetime. When you slow down your travels and meet the locals, you get to experience these incredible events. While spending my second summer in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua, I was able to attend and help judge a fashion show with local indigenous women. This my friends, was a.w.e.s.o.m.e.

These kinds of travel experiences really only come about after spending time in one place, meeting people, listening to stories, and actively participating in their everyday life – a natural progression that comes with slow travel.

What are some of your favorite slow travel event stories?