Don't Stop the Music
From pop to EDM and country to bluegrass enjoy a music festival that suits you this summer.
Now that winter is just about over, it's time to start counting down the days until the summer music festival season begins. These events have becomes summer travel destinations in major cities across the U.S. From pop to electronic dance music (EDM) to county and bluegrass, each festival has its own unique sound.
While there are many music festival lists out there from Harper’s Bazaar to Taste of Country, we’ve highlighted a few suitable festivals for a variety of ages. They’ll have you booking a trip in no time.
Festivals for all ages:
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – Fair Grounds Race Course; New Orleans, LA
When: April 22 – May 1, 2016
Who’s playing: This New Orleans tradition includes a wide mix of internationally known artists, including Stevie Wonder and Mavis Staples, as well as Nick Jonas and Beck. But this fest isn’t just about music – it also includes food and art – welcoming thousands of musicians, cooks and craftspeople.
CMA Music Festival – Nashville, TN
When: June 9 – 12, 2016
Who’s playing: The who’s who of country music basically. This event sells out quickly, but there is also free daytime music and activities set up throughout downtown Nashville. With seven free stages and all kinds of food, games and giveaways lined up along Broadway Street, you can hang out all day or come as you please.
Eaux Claires – Chippewa River; Eau Claire, WI
When: August 12-13, 2016
Who’s playing: The lineup hasn’t been announced for 2016, but 2015 included performances by Boys Noize and Sufjan Stevens. The festival, created by Bon Iver frontman Justin Vernon, also includes performance art, visual art and food. Children ten and under are free.
Strawberry Festival – Nevada County Fairgrounds; Grass Valley, CA
When: May 26 – 29, 2016
Who’s playing: Mavis Staples, The Wood Brothers, Tim O’Brien, David Grisman Sextet and many more! The festival, which also runs in September, is a great way for the entire family to kick off the summer.
Festivals for the younger crowd:
Coachella – Empire Polo Club; Indio, CA
When: April 15-17 and April 22-24, 2016
Who’s playing: Headliners include LCD Soundsystem, Guns N’ Roses and Calvin Harris along with Ellie Goulding, Disclosure and Zedd.
Bonnaroo – Great Stage Park; Manchester, TN
When: June 9 – 12, 2016
Who’s playing: Headliners include Pearl Jam, Dead & Company, LCD Soundsystem, J. Cole, Ellie Goulding, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Deathcab for Cutie, Haim, Sam Hunt and many more.
Lollapalooza – Grant Park; Chicago, IL
When: July 28 – 31, 2016
Who’s playing: The 2016 lineup hasn’t been announced yet, but we know it’s going to be huge! The festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and expanded to a 4-day weekend.
Are you heading out to one of these festivals this year? Share your experiences with other Fast Park guests on our Facebook page!