Festivals are some of the most important events around the world. Whether you’re in Europe, the Americas, Asia, or elsewhere, each event promises an ecstatic combination of dazzling lights, a huge gathering of masses, and a sense of emotional connection that resonates with people. But behind the excitement, an unsettling pattern has emerged—too many of these gatherings are spiraling into chaos and disaster. From overcrowded venues to neglected safety protocols, the allure of these large-scale events often conceals a darker side.
Why do festivals, which should be celebrations of art, faith, and culture, keep ending in tragedy? Is there some ominous reason why constant catastrophe plagues these events? Click through this gallery to see why dreams of unity and joy so often turn into disastrous nightmares.