Autumn Adventures: Must-Visit Festivals in Romania 2024

Exciting Autumn Festivals and Events in Romania for 2024

As the crisp air of autumn settles across Romania, the country comes alive with vibrant festivals and events celebrating its rich cultural heritage, food, and traditions. From lively harvest fairs to music festivals and craft markets, Romania offers a variety of activities to enjoy during the autumn season. Here are some of the most anticipated events for 2024 that you won’t want to miss.

1. Sibiu International Theatre Festival (FITS)

Date: September 20-29, 2024
Location: Sibiu
One of the largest performing arts festivals in Europe, the Sibiu International Theatre Festival (FITS) brings together theatre troupes, dancers, musicians, and artists from across the globe. With performances in streets, squares, and historic buildings, Sibiu transforms into a vibrant stage during this autumn spectacle. The festival showcases a diverse range of art forms, from theatre and dance to film and visual arts, making it a must-visit for culture lovers.

2. Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF) – Sibiu Edition

Date: October 2-5, 2024
Location: Sibiu
After a successful summer edition in Cluj-Napoca, the Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF) returns to Sibiu for its autumn showcase. Movie enthusiasts can enjoy screenings of critically acclaimed films, independent productions, and thought-provoking documentaries. The festival also hosts discussions with directors and actors, offering an insider’s look at the world of cinema.

3. Autumn Harvest Festival in Răvășitul Oilor

Date: October 4-6, 2024
Location: Bran, near Brașov
The Răvășitul Oilor (The Return of the Sheep) is a traditional festival in the scenic town of Bran, famous for its proximity to Dracula’s Castle. It marks the end of the grazing season when shepherds return their flocks from the mountains. Visitors can enjoy traditional Romanian food, folk music, and craft markets while witnessing the shepherds’ ceremonial return. The event is a perfect blend of cultural heritage and the natural beauty of the Carpathians.

4. The Chestnut Festival – Castane 2024

Date: September 27-29, 2024
Location: Baia Mare
Celebrating one of Maramureș’s best-loved autumn traditions, The Chestnut Festival is a three-day event featuring local chestnut-based delicacies, folk music, and dance performances. The festival offers an authentic taste of Romanian rural life, with cooking competitions, live concerts, and craft fairs. A highlight of the event is the large chestnut roast, where locals and visitors alike can sample the seasonal treats.

5. Cluj Craft Beer Festival

Date: October 11-13, 2024
Location: Cluj-Napoca
As autumn settles in, the city of Cluj-Napoca hosts the popular Cluj Craft Beer Festival. Celebrating the country’s growing craft beer scene, this festival brings together local and international breweries, offering a wide selection of unique and flavorful brews. Visitors can sample different types of craft beers while enjoying live music, street food, and a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

6. Iași Light Festival

Date: October 20-22, 2024
Location: Iași
The Iași Light Festival is a visual treat, turning the city into an illuminated wonderland. Local artists and international teams create stunning light installations, lighting up some of Iași’s most iconic buildings and public spaces. The festival celebrates creativity and innovation, with interactive light displays, digital art, and music performances. The streets of Iași take on a magical glow, making it a perfect time to explore the historic city.

7. Sinaia Forever Festival

Date: September 27-29, 2024
Location: Sinaia
Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, Sinaia comes to life every autumn with the Sinaia Forever Festival. Known for its beautiful setting, this festival offers a mix of live music, theatre performances, and art exhibitions, all framed by the breathtaking scenery of the Prahova Valley. The event celebrates the local history and culture, while also focusing on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy both nature and culture in one of Romania’s most picturesque mountain resorts.

8. Bucharest Days Festival

Date: September 14-16, 2024
Location: Bucharest
Celebrating the founding of Romania’s capital, the Bucharest Days Festival offers a weekend of history, music, and entertainment. The streets of Bucharest fill with live concerts, open-air exhibitions, and traditional Romanian performances. A major highlight is the street food market, showcasing the best of Romanian and international cuisine. The festival also features fireworks displays and special events at the city’s historical landmarks.

9. Wine Festivals: Focșani & Dealu Mare

Dates: October 10-12, 2024 (Focșani) | October 18-20, 2024 (Dealu Mare)
Locations: Focșani, Vrancea & Dealu Mare
Autumn is the season of wine in Romania, and two of the country’s most famous wine regions celebrate with festivals dedicated to the art of winemaking. Focșani Wine Festival in Vrancea, one of Romania’s largest wine-producing areas, offers visitors the chance to taste a variety of local wines. Meanwhile, Dealu Mare Wine Festival, located in one of Romania’s premium wine regions, invites visitors to experience wine tastings, vineyard tours, and food pairings in a stunning countryside setting.

10. Halloween at Bran Castle

Date: October 31, 2024
Location: Bran Castle
Halloween at Bran Castle is one of the most iconic autumn events in Romania, attracting both locals and tourists from around the world. Known as “Dracula’s Castle,” Bran Castle hosts a thrilling Halloween party with ghost tours, spooky decorations, and eerie performances. Visitors can explore the castle at night, participate in costume contests, and immerse themselves in the legend of Count Dracula.

Autumn in Romania is a season rich with cultural celebrations, local traditions, and unique events. Whether you are drawn to the colorful displays of light in Iași, the culinary delights of the Chestnut Festival, or the eerie charm of Halloween at Bran Castle, there is something for everyone. These festivals and events offer an authentic glimpse into Romania’s diverse heritage and are perfect for those looking to experience the country’s vibrant autumn atmosphere.