Summer is the time to lose your inhibitions, let your hair down, and venture out to the best music festivals across the country! With the multitude of cultural events, musical extravaganzas, and multi-genre experiences, the music festival season is bound to leave you spellbound and exhilarated.
From California to Maine and every state in between, here are some of the best music festivals to attend:
1. Coachella: The crown jewel of music festivals, Coachella has been a staple of the Southern Californian music scene for over two decades. Located in the sprawling Coachella Valley, it is the perfect combination of music, art, and fashion. It has an A-list lineup, including artists like Billie Eilish, Kanye West, and Ariana Grande. Coachella is a three-day event with multiple stages and on-site attractions.
2. Bonnaroo: Taking place in Manchester, Tennessee, Bonnaroo is one of the few remaining true music festivals that focuses primarily on music and attendees camping out. With a lineup consisting of mainstream acts and niche aficianados, Bonnaroo is the place to go for the live nation concert lover who is seeking a more laidback, festival experience.
3. Lollapalooza: Lollapalooza is located in Chicago and is one of the largest music festivals in the world. It features eight stages with dozens of performers over four days. The festival is known for its wide range of music genres that range from indie rock and hip-hop to electronic and alternative music. Headliners include Radiohead, The Killers, and Chance the Rapper.
4. Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC): EDC takes place in Las Vegas, and it’s one of the best festivals for electronic dance music (EDM) enthusiasts. The festival is famous for its high-energy performances, carnival rides, and impressive visuals. It’s a massive event that attracts thrill-seekers from all over the world, and with acts like Martin Garrix, Above & Beyond, and Tiësto headlining, it’s not hard to see why.
5. Governors Ball: Located on Randall’s Island in New York City, Governors Ball is an impressive three-day event with an eclectic lineup that ranges from the biggest pop stars to indie rock bands. With top-tier performers like Post Malone, Vampire Weekend, and Stevie Nicks, Governor’s Ball is the ideal event for music enthusiasts who appreciate all types of music genres.
6. Austin City Limits: The annual Austin City Limits Music Festival, located in Zilker Park in Austin, is a two-weekend event that has been hailed as one of the top music festivals in the world. With eight stages and over 140 artists performing over two weekends, this festival has something for everyone.
7. Sasquatch!: Sasquatch! is a multi-day music festival that takes place in George, Washington, and has been running since 2002. The festival features an impressive lineup of indie rock, hip hop, and electronic dance music. Sasquatch! offers attendees camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities to complement the musical festivities.
8. Newport Folk Festival: The Newport Folk Festival has been a classic fixture of the American folk music scene for over 60 years. The festival takes place in historic Fort Adams State Park in Rhode Island and features an impressive lineup of folk, indie, and blues performers. This family-friendly festival celebrates the creative vision of contemporary artists who aspire to make a difference in the world.
9. Outside Lands: Outside Lands is located in the Golden Gate Park in San Francisco and is a three-day festival that showcases music from all genres, including electronic dance, hip-hop, and indie rock. There are also multiple stages with comedians, food vendors, and other attractions. The festival’s lineup includes popular acts like Tame Impala, The Strokes, and Tyler, The Creator.
10. Pitchfork Music Festival: Pitchfork Music Festival takes place in Chicago and provides a perfect platform for indie rock and alternative music lovers. The festival is held in Union Park, and it showcases emerging talent along with more established artists. The festival flaunts a laid-back vibe where visitors can relax under the natural woodlands and enjoy music.
In conclusion, summer is the perfect time to engage with a diverse range of musical genres and explore the festivities that come with them. There are numerous music festivals across the country, providing the ultimate experience of music, camping, and community, every year. So, plan to be a part of any of these upcoming events and enjoy the thrill of live music, food, and entertainment – all under the sun and stars!
