Major USA Travel Events & Festivals in August 2025
August marks the grand finale of summer across the United States. The weather is warm, the skies are clear, and the calendar is packed with events & festivals that draw travelers from every direction. Think vibrant streets in New York, scenic fairgrounds in Oregon, and sunny shores in Maine. Every region has something to show off this month
This is when America celebrates its culture, food, music, and diversity, not just for locals, but for everyone willing to explore. From timeless traditions to exciting new festivals, the month is filled with reasons to get out. These celebrations give travellers the opportunity to join the crowds and create unforgettable travel memories in summer. Here we come with the major USA travel events & festivals that will surely add charm to your travelling experiences:
Major USA Travel Events & Festivals in August 2025
Explore the unforgettable events waiting for you this August, from epic state fairs to hidden-gem festivals across all 50 states:
1. Maine Lobster Festival
Date: July 30 – August 3, 2025
Venue: Rockland Harbor Park, Rockland, ME
Tickets: Free entry; pay for food
Details: A New England seafood classic. Enjoy lobster feasts, boat tours, parades, and coastal views in a picturesque harbor town.
2. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Date: August 1–10, 2025
Venue: Sturgis, SD & Black Hills
Tickets: Free to enter. Some events and concerts may require tickets.
Details: A global motorcycling event drawing over half a million attendees. Expect scenic group rides, concerts, vendor villages, and cultural showcases in South Dakota’s scenic western region.
3. Watershed Festival 2025
Date: August 1–3, 2025
Venue: Gorge Amphitheatre, George, WA
Tickets: Multi-day passes; camping available
Details: Set against the Columbia River Gorge, this country music fest offers big names, dramatic views, and a relaxed camping scene.
4. Musikfest 2025
Date: August 1–10, 2025
Venue: Bethlehem, PA
Tickets: Free for most shows; some headliners ticketed
Details: The largest free music festival in the U.S. Over 500 performances, food stalls, and craft markets in a historic steel town setting.
5. Indiana State Fair
Date: August 1–17, 2025
Venue: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, IN
Tickets: ~$15 GA
Details: One of the major USA Travel Events & Festivals, offering agricultural showcases, live concerts, and the famous fair food draws tourists from all over the Midwest.
6. Ventura County Fair
Date: July 30 – August 10, 2025
Venue: Ventura County Fairgrounds, CA
Tickets: ~$15 General Admission Fee
Details: A traditional seaside fair with ocean views, carnival rides, food stands, and live entertainment in a coastal setting.
7. Iowa State Fair
Date: August 7–17, 2025
Venue: Des Moines, IA
Tickets: ~$16
Details: One of America’s most iconic state fairs. Famous for butter sculptures, big-name concerts, fried foods, and classic Americana.
8. Alaska State Fair
Date: August 15 – September 1, 2025
Venue: Palmer, AK
Tickets: Adults (ages 12+): $11, Children (ages 6-11): $7, Age 5 and under are FREE
Details: Offers giant vegetables, mountain views, concerts, and lumberjack shows, a great cultural experience in America’s northernmost state.
9. Minnesota State Fair
Date: August 21 – September 1, 2025
Venue: Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul, Minnesota
Tickets: Vary from activity to activity
Details: One of the biggest in the country. From butter sculptures and live music to deep-fried snacks, this fair attracts over 2 million visitors.
10. New York State Fair
Date: August 21 – September 1, 2025
Venue: Syracuse, NY
Tickets: $8 General Admission Ticket
Details: One of the oldest and biggest fairs in the country. Attractions include diverse cultural exhibits, food stands, and daily entertainment.
11. Kentucky State Fair
Date: August 14 – 24, 2025
Venue: Fairground in Louisville, Kentucky
Tickets: $9 General Admission Ticket
Details: A Kentucky staple featuring bluegrass music, horse events, culinary contests, and family-friendly attractions.
12. Oregon State Fair
Date: August 22 – September 1, 2025
Venue: Fairground in Salem, Oregon
Tickets: ~$10–25
Details: State fair fun with livestock, rides, concerts, food stalls, and regional wine tastings.
13. North Coast Music Festival
Date: August 29–31, 2025
Venue: Bridgeview, IL
Tickets: Vary
Details: A major electronic music festival closing Chicago’s summer with massive visuals, art zones, and a vibrant crowd.
Note: Event dates, venues, tickets, and other details are subject to change, as per management. We recommend you please go through the official websites to confirm the details if you have any doubts.
Final Thought
August 2025 is packed with iconic festivals, cultural celebrations, and unforgettable summer experiences across all 50 states. Whether you are chasing sunflowers, exploring state fairs, or dancing at massive music festivals, this month offers something for every kind of traveler. Every event in this list is publicly accessible, date-verified, and selected for its tourism value. It helps you make the most of your summer adventures.
Get the entire list in a free PDF guide — easy to download, print, or access offline for hassle-free travel planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best U.S. travel festivals in August 2025?
Top picks include the Iowa State Fair, Musikfest (PA), Minnesota State Fair, the New York State Fair, and the Oregon State Fair.
Which US states have big summer events in August?
Minnesota, Iowa, New York, and Oregon host some of the month’s biggest tourism draws.
Are US state fairs good for tourists?
Absolutely! They offer a taste of regional culture, food, live shows, and a festive summer vibe, ideal for travelers of all ages.
Should I book tickets in advance for the US travel festivals in August?
Yes! Some major festivals sell out quickly. State fairs often offer early-bird discounts or reserved seating.
Can I plan a USA road trip around August travel events?
Definitely! Many events are regionally grouped, making it easy to string together multiple fairs, music fests, or food events into one epic road trip.
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