7 Summer Music Festivals to Scope Out
Summer’s in full swing, and that means time to get outdoors and see some of the world’s most fantastic and artistic musicians live. This year is shaping up to be a big one, with tons of fresh talent trekking their way across the states to make their debuts.
We’re here to bring you the scoop on the coolest festivals to check out this summer, including quite a few that you’ve probably never heard of (unless Coachella is your home away from home).
So, what do you like? There’s something for music fans of all different flavors this summer, and not just in your hometown. Find yourself below and check it out.
The Mega-Fest Fan
Governor’s Ball Music Festival
Where: Randall’s Island Park, New York City, NY
Dates: June 3 - 5
Website: governorsballmusicfestival.com
This is the Big Apple’s very own music festival, and it’s a doozy. The setlist alone will make any concert fan swoon, like Kanye West, Of Monsters and Men, Death Cab for Cutie, The Strokes, Galantis, Jon Bellion and more.
The Jazz Lover
Telluride Jazz Festival
Where: Telluride Town Park, Telluride, CO
Dates: August 5 - 7
Website: telluridejazz.org
This classic American genre is like a fine wine: it just goes well with everything as it ages. This festival has aged well too, with over 40 years of providing smooth music set to a beautiful sierra backdrop. If you find yourself in the Telluride area this August, lean back and listen to the melodious tunes of jazz bands and solo artists alike.
The Country-Lovin’
CMA Music Festival
Where: Nashville, TN
Dates: July 9 - 12
Website: www.cmaworld.com/cma-music-festival
This is one of the biggest, if not THE biggest, country music festival of the year, and it’s all set in the historic city that has raised some household names. Check out the setlist and get excited for big names like Martina McBride, Blake Shelton, Cassadee Pope, Post Monroe, Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, Sam Hunt, Keith Urban, and a countless more.
The Non-Stop Rocker
Rock Fest Wisconsin
Where: Cadott, WI
Dates: July 14 - 16
Website: rock-fest.com
Want to rock out with your friends on your own campsite? This fest is the one for you. With a rich rock history, there’s no better place to host some of the biggest names in the genre. They’ve got hot names on the lineup list, like Breaking Benjamin, Five Finger Death Punch, Sick Puppies, New Years Day, Vaudeville, Cold Kingdom, and more.
The Night Owl
Electric Daisy Carnival
Where: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, NV
Dates: July 17 - 19
Website: www.electricdaisycarnival.com
This festival speaks for itself. Surrounded by the neon funk-pop synths, colors, and sounds, attendees can choose from 8 themed stages with live music, theme park rides, and one-of-a-kind artwork. It truly is an escape from reality, in a great way that brings the eccentric and the energetic together. Take in the lights, the fashion, and the new friends you’re bound to find. Need I say more?
The Bohemian Spirit
Capitol Hill Block Party
Where: Capitol Hill, Seattle, WA
Dates: July 22 - 24
Website: capitolhillblockparty.com
As the name suggests, this is one big street party set in the cultural hub of the Emerald City. USA Today named it in one of the top “Twelve Reasons to Visit Seattle”, and even the most subdued hipster would be proud of that ranking. But you won’t find many mainstream artists on their lineup, and that’s a good thing. This fest is home to the fresh and new, the kind of lesser-known talent that you’d find on your Discover Weekly playlist on Spotify. This includes Wand, Porter Ray, Odesza, Crystal Castles, The Cave Singers, and more.
The Loud and Hot Mess
Lollapalooza
Where: Grant Park, Chicago, IL
Dates: July 28 - 31
Website: www.lollapalooza.com
Like the Governor’s Ball, Lollapalooza is a hodge-podge of musicians from all different genres. They’ve got 8 dynamic stages, art market, kid’s area, and some of the most selfie-worthy photo ops in the world. The Lolla team even boast of their wide food selection for attendees, which ain’t your typical carnival-fried fare. Go see the stars with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ellie Goulding, Radiohead, Major Lazer, Lana Del Rey, The 1975, and more.