Home » America Travel News » Top 8 Longest Festivals in the US to Add to Your 2025 Travel List: Hotel Taxes & Tips You Need to Know
Published on October 29, 2025
If you love fun, celebrations, and unforgettable experiences, then the United States is the place to be in 2025! There are some amazing festivals coming up that last for days, even weeks. These festivals are more than just events; they are celebrations of culture, music, food, and art. Some are so long they almost feel like a lifetime adventure! But there’s more to these festivals than just fun and games. There are important taxes that affect travellers, especially when staying in hotels. In this article, we will dive into the most exciting festivals and how hotel taxes might surprise you when you plan your trip in 2025.
1. Mardi Gras in Louisiana: A Festival Like No Other
Mardi Gras is perhaps the most famous and longest festival in the United States. Held in New Orleans, Louisiana, this festival is a massive celebration that spans weeks. From parades to music, Mardi Gras is full of excitement. What makes it stand out is the vibrant culture and traditions that bring people from all over the world.
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If you plan to attend Mardi Gras in 2025, one thing to keep in mind is the hotel taxes. Louisiana has a 5% state sales tax on lodging. In addition to this, local taxes might also apply, depending on the parish. So, if you’re staying at a hotel during this grand festival, make sure to check the extra costs before booking.
2. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico
Imagine hundreds of hot air balloons floating above the city in a beautiful, colourful display. That’s what you’ll experience at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico. This festival is the largest ballooning event in the world. Held every October, the event attracts thousands of visitors.
When you travel to Albuquerque, New Mexico, for this magnificent festival, you should be aware of the hotel occupancy taxes. New Mexico’s tax rates can vary. Albuquerque itself has a mix of state and local taxes, so make sure you check for the exact rates before booking your stay. The taxes for hotel rooms and other accommodations will depend on where you book your stay, so understanding these details will help you avoid surprises.
3. Gilroy Garlic Festival in California: A Unique Culinary Adventure
Do you love food? Then the Gilroy Garlic Festival in California is perfect for you. Held annually in Gilroy, this festival is a celebration of garlic, one of the most beloved and powerful ingredients in the world. The festival lasts for three days and features all things garlic: garlic-infused food, music, and cooking competitions.
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For anyone travelling to California, understanding the hotel taxes is crucial. In cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and others, you may find taxes like a transient occupancy tax (TOT) and community facility taxes, which can make your accommodation cost a little higher. Gilroy, though a smaller town, still falls under the same taxation rules, so expect taxes to range from 10-15% for hotel stays.
4. Minnesota State Fair: The Largest State Fair in the US
The Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul is one of the largest and most famous state fairs in the country. Running from late August to Labour Day, the fair features everything you can imagine—rides, food, livestock shows, and concerts. The State Fair’s lengthy schedule makes it a great destination for families and solo travellers alike.
Minnesota has a specific tax rate for hotel stays. For example, Duluth charges a 3% lodging excise tax, and larger cities in Minnesota might have additional taxes on top of this. These rates might not seem large, but if you’re staying for multiple days, they can add up. Knowing the hotel tax structure before you travel to the Minnesota State Fair will make your trip smoother.
5. Arizona State Fair: A Family-Friendly Event
The Arizona State Fair in Phoenix is another long-running festival that brings people together for fun, food, and entertainment. Every October, this event features concerts, rides, and competitions that keep the whole family entertained. The fair is open for nearly a month, making it perfect for visitors who want to experience all that Arizona has to offer.
For anyone planning a visit to the Arizona State Fair, hotel taxes are a key factor. Arizona has specific taxes for lodging, including a 2% bed tax. This is in addition to the state sales tax, which varies by location. If you’re planning to stay at a hotel during the fair, be sure to check the local taxes before booking.
6. Florida Strawberry Festival: A Sweet Treat for Visitors
In Plant City, Florida, the Florida Strawberry Festival is a beloved event that celebrates the strawberry harvest. Held each spring, the festival features everything from strawberry-themed food to live entertainment and carnival rides. The event spans about 10 days, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Florida has a variety of taxes that affect lodging, including a tourist development tax in places like Pinellas County. When travelling to Florida for this festival, it’s essential to understand the lodging tax in your destination city or county. Local taxes can vary widely across the state, with some cities charging additional fees like the 5% tourist development tax in Pinellas County.
7. St. Louis Art Fair: A Festival for Art Lovers
St. Louis, Missouri, is home to the St. Louis Art Fair, a celebration of fine art and creativity. The event draws thousands of visitors each year who come to see art exhibitions, live performances, and taste local food. This festival runs for about three days, making it a perfect long weekend getaway for art lovers.
When attending the St. Louis Art Fair, be mindful of the hotel taxes in Missouri. St. Louis charges a 3.5% convention and sports tax, and there is also a 3.75% tourism tax. These taxes can add up, especially if you’re planning a longer stay in the city. Make sure to check your accommodation options to understand how much tax you’ll need to pay during your visit.
8. Cheyenne Frontier Days: A Rodeo Celebration in Wyoming
Cheyenne Frontier Days is a major annual event in Wyoming, and it’s one of the longest-running rodeos in the world. This festival lasts for about 10 days, offering everything from rodeo competitions to concerts and parades. Visitors can enjoy a true Western experience while taking part in one of the most exciting festivals in the US.
In Wyoming, hotel occupancy taxes can vary by location. The state has a range of rates, which can be anywhere from 4% to 9% depending on where you stay. So, whether you’re staying in Cheyenne or another Wyoming city, be sure to check the local taxes that apply to your hotel.
Understanding the Impact of Hotel Taxes on Your Travel Budget
While these festivals offer incredible experiences, the taxes on hotels and accommodations can quickly add up. Knowing the hotel occupancy tax rates in each city or state will help you manage your travel budget better. These taxes are applied to hotel rooms or other temporary lodging accommodations, and the rates vary significantly depending on the location. Some states and cities have high tax rates, while others offer lower rates.
The total cost of your stay can increase depending on how long you plan to be in the area. For example, if you’re attending the Minnesota State Fair for 10 days, the hotel taxes could end up being a significant part of your total cost. In other states like Florida, local tourist taxes might be added, making the overall accommodation cost higher. This is why it’s essential to check the tax rates in advance and factor them into your travel expenses.
How to Plan for These Taxes in 2025
When planning your trip to one of these long festivals in 2025, it’s important to do thorough research on the specific tax rates in each location. This way, you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected costs. Many cities and states offer online tools where you can calculate the exact amount of tax on hotel stays. It’s also a good idea to check with your hotel or booking platform to get an accurate estimate of the total cost, including taxes.
If you want to make your festival experience even more enjoyable, consider booking your accommodation early to lock in lower rates. Many hotels and lodging options offer early-bird discounts, and booking ahead can help you avoid the surge in prices that often happens closer to the event dates.
Final Thoughts: Make Your 2025 Festival Trip Unforgettable
Whether you’re heading to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, or any other long-running festival in the US, there’s one thing that will make your trip even better: careful planning. Understanding the tax rates on your accommodation is key to budgeting for your trip. So, take the time to research, plan ahead, and get ready for an unforgettable 2025! The United States has some of the most exciting, longest festivals in the world, and with a little bit of preparation, you can make the most of your adventure.
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