The Music Lover’s Guide to Summer Music Festivals

Summer and music festivals are the perfect combination. Whether you want to listen to your favorite bands, hang out with your friends or discover new talent, the experience never disappoints. Let the music move through you on warm, sunny days and balmy, star-lit nights. This summer, plan your road trip with some of the best musical options.

Bonnaroo

This four-day festival blends rock music legends like Foo Fighters with hot, new contemporary artists such as Kendrick Lamar. Each June, Bonnaroo descends on a sprawling 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee. Music fans from all over the country flock to the site for great music, food and comedy. 

Telluride Bluegrass Festival

Set against a picturesque backdrop of the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, this annual bluegrass festival first hit the music scene in 1974. Four days each June, a range of artists take the stage to entertain fans with the unique Telluride bluegrass sound. This year’s event marks the 50^th edition of the annual music bonanza. 

Firefly Music Festival

Held in the lush Woodlands of Dover, Delaware, Firefly attracts some of the hottest pop, R&B, rap and rock artists. Many stages showcase various talented acts. The scrumptious food line-up rivals that of the talent. Camping and glamping packages add to the fun for those who enjoy the great outdoors. It’s important to note that the event isn’t going ahead in 2023, but it’s set to return with a bang in 2024.

Summerfest Milwaukee

Calling itself “The World's Largest Music Festival”, Summerfest has been known to host more than 800 performers from all genres across its schedule. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, the festival takes place from late June to early July every year. Refreshing lake breezes ensure even the hottest days are cool while excellent food and shopping add to the experience. Summerfest celebrates its 55th year in 2023.

Lollapalooza

Originating in 1991, Lollapalooza brings together an eclectic variety of alternative rock, heavy metal, punk, hip-hop and EDM bands. Held in Grant Park, Chicago, every August, the festival resides at the hub of the Windy City's action in the central business district. An iconic music event, Lollapalooza helped launch the careers of Pearl Jam, The Smashing Pumpkins and numerous other bands. There’s a total of nine stages, with more than 170 bands from around the globe.

Coachella

Held in the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California over three days in April, Coachella is an annual treat for music lovers. Hosting an eclectic variety of genres from rock and pop to hip-hop and indie, it’s now one of the most esteemed festivals in the world. Coachella first hit the scene in 1999, although its conception dates back to 1993 when Pearl Jam staged a historic concert on the Empire Polo Club grounds.

Enjoy your favorite tunes in the California sun. Such acts like Oasis and Red Hot Chili Peppers are amongst some of the festival’s previous headliners. The 2023 edition featured Bad Bunny and Frank Ocean.

Don't let the music pass you by this summer. Load your playlist, pack your sun protection and head over to our Facebook and Twitter for more useful travel tips.

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