Summer is the perfect time for music festivals, and there are so many to choose from. From the well-known Coachella and Bonnaroo to the unique Outside Lands and Essence Festival, there is something for every taste. Lollapalooza and Governors Ball offer a mix of popular and up-and-coming artists, while Electric Daisy Carnival and Ultra Music Festival are must-attends for EDM fans. And South by Southwest is a massive festival that covers music, film, and interactive media. Finally, Summerfest is not just about music, but also the celebration of Midwestern culture. Regardless of your preference, these 10 music festivals should not be missed this year.
10 Music Festivals You Can’t Miss This Year
Music festivals have become a staple in the summer social scene and have been growing in popularity in recent years. With a variety of genres to choose from, there is something for everyone. Here are 10 music festivals that you should add to your calendar:
1. Coachella
Coachella is one of the most popular and well-known music festivals in the world. Held in Indio, California, Coachella brings together a star-studded lineup of artists across genres, including hip hop, indie, electronic, and more. With multiple stages, art installations, and food vendors, this festival is a full immersion experience.
2. Bonnaroo
Located in Manchester, Tennessee, Bonnaroo is a four-day celebration of music, art, and culture. This festival has a diverse lineup of musicians, along with a comedy tent, cinema, and workshops. Bonnaroo is known for its sense of community and the opportunity to camp on-site with fellow music lovers.
3. Lollapalooza
Started as a touring festival in the 1990s, Lollapalooza now takes place each summer in Chicago’s Grant Park. The festival features eight stages of music, along with local food vendors and an art market. The lineup offers a mix of popular and up-and-coming artists from various genres.
4. Governors Ball
Founded in 2011, Governors Ball takes place on Randall’s Island in New York City. This festival brings together a mix of popular and indie artists and is known for showcasing emerging talent. Governors Ball offers a variety of food options, beer gardens, and art installations.
5. Outside Lands
Located in San Francisco, Outside Lands is a unique music festival that also celebrates food, wine, and beer. The festival takes place in Golden Gate Park, where attendees can enjoy performances from a mix of popular and emerging artists, as well as indulge in local culinary delights.
6. Electric Daisy Carnival
The Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) is a massive electronic dance music (EDM) festival that takes place in Las Vegas. This three-day festival features some of the biggest names in EDM and includes multiple stages, art installations, and carnival rides.
7. Essence Festival
Essence Festival takes place in New Orleans and celebrates African American culture and music. This festival features a mix of R&B, hip-hop, and jazz artists, along with empowering keynote speakers and seminars.
8. South by Southwest
South by Southwest (SXSW) is a massive festival that takes over Austin, Texas, each spring. This festival includes a mix of music, film, and interactive media, and features both up-and-coming and established artists from various genres.
9. Ultra Music Festival
As one of the largest electronic dance music festivals in the world, Ultra Music Festival takes place in Miami every spring. This three-day festival features some of the biggest names in EDM and takes over Bayfront Park with multiple stages and immersive installations.
10. Summerfest
Summerfest takes place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is one of the largest music festivals in the world. The festival features over 800 acts across 11 stages, along with a variety of food vendors and local artisans. Summerfest is not just about music, but also the celebration of Midwestern culture.
No matter what your musical preference is, there is a festival out there for you. These 10 music festivals offer unforgettable experiences and are definitely worth adding to your summer plans.