5 Music Festivals You Have to See This Summer (US Edition)
Does being surrounded by fellow music lovers give you a thrill? If yes, music festivals are definitely for you. Concerts and gigs are already amazing, but when you get to see your favorite artists (and some lesser-known talents) perform in front of you and people as into music as you are? Nothing beats it.
So don’t miss out on the fun! If you’re in the US (or if you just want to travel), try out one of these music festivals!
Riot Fest
What happens when you combine rock music, a carnival, and amazing food? Riot Fest! If you find yourself in Chicago this September, you should probably check out this music festival. Since 2005, this festival has specialized in punk, alternative, metal, and hip-hop, but that’s not all. You can also expect to see fun things, such as carnival rides and sideshow performers. This year, the festival will take place from September 13 to September 15.
Lollapalooza
Another alternative rock mainstay, Lollapalooza will also take over Chicago this year. As one of the most famous music festivals in the world, especially for fans who consider themselves “alternative,” it’s a can’t-miss event. Founded in 1991 by Perry Farrell of Jane’s Addiction, this year’s lineup has some huge names, including headliners The Strokes, Childish Gambino, Twenty-One Pilots and Ariana Grande, but you can also expect to see names that aren’t as well-known. Come for the chart-toppers, stay for the humorous musical stylings of Jack Black’s band Tenacious D. Lollapalooza starts on August 1 and ends on August 4.
Austin City Limits
Want to experience Austin, Texas? What better way to do that than go to Austin City Limits, a festival taking place over two consecutive three-day weekends in October? The festival includes eight stages, allowing a variety of singers and bands to take the crowd on a musical journey. Genres covered are indie, rock, country, folk, electronic, and hip-hop, so there’s something for everybody. This year’s acts range from Guns ‘n’ Roses to Cardi B. This iconic show will occur October 4-6 and October 11-13.
Newport Folk Festival
Originating in 1959, the Newport Folk Festival is considered one of the first modern music festivals in the United States. The festival as a whole is monumental, so if you’re a history buff, this might be the festival for you. Though it was originally created to showcase folk musicians, it has expanded some ever since Bob Dylan performed with a backing band in 1965. However, it still maintains its folk roots. Some of this year’s acts include Hozier, Kasey Musgraves, and Sheryl Crow. The festival will begin on July 26 and end on July 28.
Summerfest
If you have 11 days to kill this summer, what’s better than Summerfest? Milwaukee’s annual music festival features artists from a large variety of styles, made evident by this year’s lineup. From new and old country music rebels (such as Willie Nelson and Jason Aldean) to alternative darlings (such as the Killers) to pop superstars (such as Jennifer Lopez and Lionel Richie), Summerfest has something for everyone. Taken place from June 26-30 and July 2-7, this is a show for festival die-hards.
Are you going to any music festivals this year? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to follow IndustryMe on Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for all the latest.