There’s no better way than to spend the summer accompanied by the sounds of good music. Thankfully, we have it all in America. Summer festivals are something special, ever since Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain set the ground running, it seems that this very land is the place where you go to have fun and enjoy the best and trendiest artists from all over the world.
Ready to discover which festivals you should go to this summer? Let’s take a look together.
Burning Man
When: August 25 – September 2, 2024
Where: Black Rock City, Nevada
We start with something that’s not your typical festival. Burning Man is a week-long journey full of creativity and self-expression, set in the stark beauty of the Nevada desert. Every year, tens of thousands of “Burners” come together to build Black Rock City based on a specific theme.
This year’s theme, “Curiouser & Curiouser,” invites participants to tap into their imaginations, inspired by the world of Alice in Wonderland. Here you can find vast and interactive art installations scattered across the Playa, where giant sculptures, structures, and mind-bending performances await discovery.
And why would it be called a burning man if the event didn’t culminate with the burning of “The Man,” a towering effigy that symbolizes renewal and transformation?
You can get the tickets here.
Lollapalooza
When: August 1-4, 2024
Where: Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois
Lollapalooza is back this summer, ready to transform Chicago’s Grant Park into a buzzing hub of music, art, and excitement from August 1 to 4, 2024. This iconic festival, known for its eclectic mix of genres and vibrant atmosphere, is pulling out all the stops for its 20th anniversary.
This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring big names like Blink-182, The Killers, and SZA. You’ll also catch Tyler, The Creator, Skrillex, and the K-pop sensations Stray Kids making their debut at Lolla. With over 170 acts spread across eight stages, there’s something for everyone—from rock and hip-hop to electronic beats and indie pop.
But Lollapalooza isn’t just music. It’s a full-blown cultural experience. Dive into the gourmet food scene with offerings from top local vendors, explore engaging art installations, and enjoy stunning views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan. Whether you’re a festival veteran or a first-timer, Lollapalooza’s electric vibe and diverse lineup make it a must-visit event of the summer.
Ready to join the fun? For more details and to grab your tickets, head over to the Lollapalooza website.
Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival
When: August 9-11, 2024
Where: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California
Imagine spending a weekend in the middle of San Francisco’s lush Golden Gate Park, surrounded by incredible music, delicious food, and vibrant art. That’s what you get at the Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival. This year, it’s set to light up the park from August 9 to 11, 2024, and it’s going to be a blast.
Outside Lands is known for bringing together a mix of genres, and 2024 is no exception. You can groove to the beats of Tyler, The Creator, rock out with The Killers, and soak up the soulful sounds of Sturgill Simpson. But that’s just scratching the surface. With multiple stages and a lineup that spans everything from indie rock to electronic dance music, there’s something for everyone.
But it’s not just the music—foodies will absolutely love this place. “Taste of the Bay Area” showcases bites from San Francisco’s top restaurants, while “Wine Lands” and “Beer Lands” let you sample local wines and craft brews. And if you’re into cocktails, don’t miss “Cocktail Magic” where mixology meets artistry.
Art is a big part of the vibe too. As you wander the festival grounds, you’ll stumble upon stunning art installations and performances. This year, the SOMA Tent is back, offering an open-air dance space where DJs like The Blessed Madonna and Idris Elba will keep the party going.
Whether you’re there for the tunes, the food, or just to soak up the good vibes, Outside Lands is an unforgettable experience. Grab your tickets and get ready for a weekend of music, munchies, and magic in one of the most beautiful settings on the West Coast. For details and tickets, see the Outside Lands website.
Newport Folk Festival
When: July 26-28, 2024
Where: Fort Adams State Park, Newport, Rhode Island
Celebrate the rich tradition of folk music at the Newport Folk Festival, held July 26-28, 2024, at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island. This festival is renowned for its intimate atmosphere and a legacy of legendary performances, dating back to the days when Bob Dylan famously went electric in 1965.
The 2024 lineup promises to uphold this tradition with a blend of folk legends and contemporary artists. This year, you can look forward to seeing the soulful Brandi Carlile, the ever-popular The Avett Brothers, and the poignant lyrics of Hozier. Newport Folk Festival is also known for its surprise collaborations and guest appearances, making each performance unique and often once-in-a-lifetime.
Set against the backdrop of Newport Harbor, the festival offers quite the experience. Attendees can explore a variety of food trucks serving delicious local and international cuisine, stroll through art installations, and take in the scenic views. The laid-back, friendly vibe of the festival makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a summer weekend by the water.
Newport Folk Festival is deeply committed to sustainability. The festival promotes recycling, reduces single-use plastics, and encourages attendees to be mindful of their environmental impact. This dedication to the environment, combined with its musical heritage, makes the Newport Folk Festival a special event that resonates with both artists and fans alike.
For tickets and more information, visit the Newport Folk Festival website.
Pitchfork Music Festival
When: July 19-21, 2024
Where: Union Park, Chicago, Illinois
Pitchfork Music Festival is set to take over Chicago’s Union Park from July 19 to 21, 2024, bringing its signature blend of indie rock, hip-hop, and avant-garde music to the heart of the city. Celebrated for its curated lineup and intimate vibe, Pitchfork offers a refreshing alternative to the mega-festival scene, focusing on emerging artists and critical darlings.
This year’s headliners are an exciting mix of genres and eras. You’ll catch performances from the genre-defying Black Pumas, the innovative DJ and producer Jamie xx, and the iconic Alanis Morissette. Joining them are the beloved pop star Carly Rae Jepsen, the legendary hip-hop group De La Soul, and indie pop sensation MUNA. With more than 40 acts spread over three days, there’s plenty to discover and enjoy.
Riot Fest
When: September 20-22, 2024
Where: RiotLand at SeatGeek Stadium, Bridgeview, Illinois
Riot Fest is set to bring its high-energy punk, rock, and alternative music vibes to RiotLand at SeatGeek Stadium from September 20 to 22, 2024. This festival is a haven for fans of heavier music genres, offering a wild mix of performances and unforgettable experiences. After moving from its longtime home in Douglass Park, Riot Fest is ready to rock its new venue with a lineup that’s bigger and better than ever.
This year’s headliners are some of music’s most iconic names. Fall Out Boy will kick off the festivities on Friday, Beck and Pavement will take over on Saturday, and the legendary Slayer will close out the weekend on Sunday. The lineup also includes punk and rock heavyweights like NOFX, performing their final Chicago show, The Offspring, St. Vincent, Rob Zombie, and Public Enemy. With over 90 bands across five stages, Riot Fest promises a diverse and electrifying weekend.
Riot Fest is a full-on carnival with plenty to keep you entertained between sets. You can ride carnival rides, enjoy sideshow performers, and explore engaging art installations. The festival’s new home at SeatGeek Stadium also means more parking and improved accessibility, making it easier than ever to get in and out of the venue.
Conclusion
As you can see, America’s summer festival scene is packed with an array of incredible experiences that cater to every musical taste and artistic inclination. Whether you’re drawn to the radical self-expression of Burning Man, the eclectic sounds and vibrant atmosphere of Lollapalooza, the culinary and cultural delights of Outside Lands, the rich heritage of Newport Folk Festival, the intimate yet innovative Pitchfork Music Festival, or the high-octane energy of Riot Fest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
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