I’ve been a music festival addict for over 15 years now. It’s been one of the most important aspects of my life and travels, and I love researching and discovering my next big festival both here in America as well as abroad.
So I’ve compiled what I think is the ultimate USA festival bucket list to keep you busy for many festival seasons to come! In the last decade, the popularity of the festival industry and amount of new events hitting North America has been exponential, and every year they’ve just been getting bigger and better!
From weekend-long camping adventures, dusk-til-dawn mega raves, and small boutique festivals – this list has got it covered! California to New York, Washington to Florida – my guide to the 40 coolest music festivals in the US has something for everyone!
While attending all of these in the same year would be impossible, be sure to add all of these to your bucket list!
1) Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
Photo by Andrew Jorgensen
When: June 12-15, 2025
Where: Manchester, Tennessee
The most positive place on this planet, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, every time.
Bonnaroo features a diverse lineup of 150+ musicians and other performance artists every year. With 10+ stages and entertainment that goes ALL NIGHT LONG, you will NOT be bored. AND Camping at Bonnaroo is hardly “camping” by most definitions of the word – it’s a non-stop adventure of discovery and human connection with your fellow Bonnaroovians, and a key to the one-of-a-kind Bonnaroo experience.
Bonnaroo is easily one of the most popular and respected festivals on the continent, and there’s simply no better time to plan a trip to Tennessee than to experience it for yourself!
Watch the short film below for just a small glimpse about what Bonnaroo is all about!
Photo by Andrew Jorgensen
2) Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
Coachella is easily one of the most famous music festivals in the world!
When: April 11-13, and April 18-20, 2025 (Two weekends)
Where: Empire Polo Club, Indio, California
Coachella is arguably the most iconic and biggest music & arts festival in the United States (and quite possibly the entire world). If you haven’t been, I can guarantee you it’ll certainly be an experience that you’ll never forget. While it may be notoriously expensive, I personally think it’s worth every penny. Each year Coachella provides an undeniably impressive line-up spanning nearly every music genre, epic stage production, world-class food & drink vendors and a fantastic festival atmosphere.
Being a favorite among the dozens of quality music festivals in California, tickets do sell-out almost instantly, so make sure your festival squad plan ahead and scoop up some tickets while you can! I’ve attended Coachella in 2014 & 2018, and I had the time of my life, and can’t wait to return to the magical Empire Polo Club for another round for Coachella 2025!
Check out the Coachella after movie below for some stunning footage of the epic USA festival!
3) Governor’s Ball
Photo by Greg Noire via Gov Ball’s Facebook
When: June 6-8, 2025
Where: Flushing Meadows Corona Park, New York City
https://www.governorsballmusicfestival.com/
“We started all this 10 years ago because we were music lovers who lived in a city that needed – that deserved – a contemporary music festival. Music is always our primary focus, and with 60+ artists of all genres across 4 stages, there is something for everyone.”
For the east coast residents looking to enjoy an unbelievable festival with the iconic NYC skyline as a backdrop, make your way to Governor’s Ball. Widely recognized as one of the biggest and best festivals in New York, this definitely deserves a top spot on your bucket list! While this year it is taking place at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, previously it was located in Citi Park s well as the beautiful and well-maintained Randall’s Island Park, festival-goers are treated to three days of world-class music, phenomenal stages, and good vibes.
4) Outside Lands Music Festival
When: August 8-10, 2025
Where: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California
https://www.sfoutsidelands.com/
Outside Lands is Northern California’s premiere music festival, and I can personally say that it’s an absolute blast! It’s a local favorite among San Franciscans, and there really is a special and relaxing festival vibe for these three days in Golden Gate Park. While tickets, food, and drink costs are rather high (like everything in SF), it’s an incredible event that you should definitely check out at least once!
The line-ups are always super-diverse (and I always discover tons of new artists), the production is fantastic, and you’ll simply fall in love with the venue (located in the heart of San Francisco). While Outside Lands Music Festival finishes early (around 10 PM), the city is filled with afterparties and sideshows of the artists on the line-up, and it really is a great time to visit the city. If you don’t want to spend the money for the full 3-day general admission, just buy a one-day ticket for your preferred day of the line-up, and spend the rest of your time partying it up in San Francisco’s thriving nightlife scene
Read my festival reviews from 2017 & 2018:
- Outside Lands Music Festival: The Ultimate Golden Gate Park Party
- Outside Lands Festival 2018 | Top 10 Weekend Highlights
5) Austin City Limits
Photo by Sydney Gawlik
When: October 2025 (Two Weekends)
Where: Austin, Texas
2 Weekends, 8 Stages, and Over 130 bands
Since its first edition in 2002, Austin City Limits has grown to become one of the largest and most well-known festivals in the US! With its growth in popularity, it’s expanded to a two-weekend event that offers its attendees some of the best international artists spanning all genres, fine arts exhibits by local artists, and incredible Texas BBQ, as well dozens of other delicious food & drink vendors.
6) Lollapalooza
Credit: Charles Reagan
When: August 2025
Where: Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois
“What started as a single-stage music showcase put together in 1991 by Perry Farrell, lead singer of Jane’s Addiction, has since evolved into a larger-than-life music experience like no other. Connecting with the city’s deep musical legacy, Lollapalooza set down roots and made Chicago its home in 2005—and it hasn’t looked back. Now a destination event, thousands of fans travel from around the world to experience the massive crowds, scenic lakefront setting, and incredible entertainment every summer.”
Lollapalooza is Chicago’s biggest (and longest) summer festival that brings together the biggest names in music every year! Located in the beautiful Grant Park with the Chicago skyline as a backdrop, it’s a four-day adventure that will surely be a highlight of your summer. Plus, you’ll be able to destroy those festival hangovers with some delicious deep-dish pizza!
7) Ultra Music Festival Miami
Photo credit: RUDGR
When: March 28-30, 2025
Where: Miami, Florida
https://ultramusicfestival.com
For 20 years+ ULTRA Music Festival has invited guests to downtown Miami for a weekend of top-notch electronic music, and in recent years, has been producing events in nearly every corner of the globe. From Australia to Japan, Buenos Aires to Croatia – ULTRA has proven repeatedly it’s one of the best music festival productions in the world. It’s always the main highlight of Miami Music Week, and is truly an experience that every EDM fan should experience at least once in their life. While ticket prices may be high for the average festival attendee, once you get a look at the star-studded line-up, it makes perfect sense!
“For EDM fans around the world, Ultra in Miami is a must-stop on the international circuit. While most of the United States is shivering in parkas waiting for the summer festival season, Ultra fans are dancing their asses off in sunny Miami. The show always delivers surprises – both in the musical acts and the fans that attend.”
8) Electric Daisy Carnival
When: May 16-18, 2025
Where: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, Nevada
https://lasvegas.electricdaisycarnival.com
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC for short) Las Vegas is the largest electronic dance music festival in North America, but pretty much every EDM fan already knows that. What started in 1997 as a warehouse party in Los Angeles, has turned into one of the wildest, massive, and mesmerizing dance music festivals in the entire world, and simply should be at TOP at every raver’s bucket list!
I’ve personally attended EDC three different times now. The last edition that was hosted in Los Angeles (2011), the first year it was brought out to Las Vegas (2012), and once again in Vegas back in 2014. It truly is unlike any festival I’ve been to in the USA, and is one of the most impressive events in the world! I’ve gotta give it up to Pasquale Rotella and the team over Insomniac events because they go above & beyond to ensure the “headliners” (the attendees) all have a life-changing experience every year!!
Credit: EDC Las Vegas
“EDC is a unique multi-day festival pushing the boundaries of imagination and setting standards in the live entertainment industry. By incorporating carnival themes and attractions, cutting-edge stage production, world-class talent, and innovative art and technology, EDC is more than an electronic music festival – it is an unparalleled multi-sensory experience unlike any other. The brand has created a passionate community of accepting fans that have turned EDC into a way of life. The foundation upon which the phenomenon was built is one of unity, love, self expression, and respect for one another.”
9) Electric Forest Festival
When: June 19-22, 2025
Where: Rothbury, Michigan
https://electricforestfestival.com/
“Have you ever felt anything like it? The beat of the bass charging the atmosphere with electrifying energy. Bolts of lightning streaking through the forest, arcing around the trees, and captivating the crowd into awe.A mind-melting experience of community, woodland, and rhythm bringing 45,000 people together every year in a musical-matrix of natural and electric vibrations…”
Since 2011, Electric Forest has been committed to the constant reimagination of what a festival experience can be. It’s this thoughtful and innovative approach to production and programming that has helped foster one of the world’s most dedicated festival communities. The festival continues to sell out each year, and the same is expected for the 2025 edition.
10) Hangout Festival
When: May 16-18, 2025
Where: The Gulf Shores, Alabama
Hangout Music Festival is a massive 3-Day beach extravaganza complete with beach clubs, ocean swimming, sailing expeditions, roller discos, free yoga, beach volleyball, a puppy kissing booth, Ferris wheel views, beautiful art installations, and so much more!
While Alabama might not be the first place you think of for a “destination festival”, Hangout Music Festival is produced by Goldenvoice (the same company behind Coachella), so you know it’s guaranteed to be an incredible beach and music festival vacation. Take a look through their previous line-ups, and you’ll understand the talent they bring out.
11) South by South West (SXSW)
Atmosphere – Outdoor Stage – Photo by David Brendan Hall
When: March 7-15, 2025
Where: Austin, Texas
“It’s not that South by Southwest takes over Austin — downtown Austin becomes SXSW for nine days in March. Music, art, interactive, panels, comedy, and movies all vie for your attention span. Let’s put it this way. You could skip media for a year, come to Austin for the week, and still come out ahead on pop culture.
Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW is best known for its conference and festivals that celebrate the convergence of the interactive, film, and music industries. The event, an essential destination for global professionals, features sessions, showcases, screenings, exhibitions, and a variety of networking opportunities. SXSW proves that the most unexpected discoveries happen when diverse topics and people come together.”
12) Lightning In A Bottle
When: May 21-25, 2025
Where: Buena Vista Lake, California
https://www.libfestival.org/experience
Celebrating Art, Music, Performance, Sustainability & Life.
Lightning in a Bottle, or more commonly referred to as “LIB”, is one of the largest transformational music festivals in the USA
While it always boasts an incredible electronic line-up, there is much to more to this spiritually awakening festival. Many friends of mine have called it their favorite festival they’ve ever attended, and it will easily be a life-changing festival experience. Go to some workshops, do some yoga, take a refreshing dip in the lake, watch the sunrise, and party like there’s no tomorrow!
“The history of LIB spans more than a decade, and friends, family, and co-horts of The Do LaB are thrilled and astounded that it’s been more than ten years of making miracles and catching Lightning in a Bottle!”
13) Shaky Knees Music Festival
When: September 19-21, 2025
Where: Atlanta, Georgia
https://www.shakykneesfestival.com/
“Drawing in nearly 40,000 attendees, Shaky Knees Festival brings a highly desired indie scene to the streets of downtown Atlanta, Georgia. In an era where most festival headliners feature a variation of EDM/DJ acts, Shaky Knees lives to show another side of modern-day music.
With more than 60 bands each year Shaky Knees is a rock lover’s dream. Since its inception in 2013, Shaky Knees has featured a diverse lineup ranging from world-renowned acts to up-and-coming artists.”
14) Made in America
Credit: Matthew Chen
When: September 2025 (Labor Day weekend)
Where: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
“The Made in America music festival is a massive musical celebration that takes over the Benjamin Franklin Parkway each Labor Day weekend in Philadelphia. With dozens of top performers and multiple stages on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the two-day music festival curated by Jay-Z is one of the year’s can’t-miss events.
Every year, Jay-Z hand-picks a lineup of both established and up-and-coming musicians to perform throughout the weekend — and sometimes, you can even find Jay-Z singing along in the crowd.”
Credit: Michael Allen
15) Summerfest
When: June 19-21, June 26-28 and July 3-7, 2025 (Three HUGE weekends!)
Where: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The biggest music festival in the world!
9 Days | 600 Artists | Milwaukee
“Summerfest is the World’s Largest Music Festival and Milwaukee’s cornerstone summer celebration that attracts the music industry’s hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. Lasting for over 9 days across 11 different stages, and 800 performances – Summerfest is attended by a staggering 800,000 people! So check it out for one day, or all 9, but just make sure you add it to your US festival bucket list!”
Featuring performances across every genre, delicious local food, and vibrant energy, it’s the ultimate summer celebration for music lovers and fun seekers alike. Don’t miss it!
16) Lost Lands Festival
Image via https://www.donidiovisuals.com/
When: September 2025
Where: Thornville, Ohio
http://www.lostlandsfestival.com
ESCAPE THE CONFINES OF THE WORLD OUTSIDE AND FIND YOURSELF IN AN IMMERSIVE ENVIRONMENT SURROUNDED BY DINOSAURS, BEATS, AND BASS. LOST LANDS MANIFESTS A FORWARD-THINKING VISION TO DELIVER AN UNFORGETTABLE FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE AND UNITE HEADBANGERS TOGETHER AS ONE TRIBE.
“Experience Lost Lands, presented by Excision, at the beautiful Legend Valley in Thornville, OH this September! See the land before time in all its glory — dinosaurs included. The insane Lost Lands lineup is curated by Excision himself, & it’s sure to rattle the fields right down to their core. Grab your tickets and catch the top artists from the past 65 million years and join us for the filthiest 3 days of bass you have ever experienced!”
17) Movement Detroit Festival
Credit: Katie Laskowska
When: May 24-26, 2025 (Memorial Day Weekend)
Where: Detroit, Michigan
“Each year on Memorial Day weekend, thousands of people from across the globe gather in the birthplace of Techno to celebrate the heritage of Detroit and its musical influence over countless generations, new and old.
Movement Music Festival is one of the longest-running dance music events in the world, committed to showcasing authentic electronic music and providing an experience unlike any other. The festival takes place in Hart Plaza – Detroit’s legendary riverfront destination.”
It’s a high-energy celebration of techno music’s birthplace, bringing thousands of fans together for three electrifying days featuring world-class DJs, immersive art, and an unbeatable vibe. Dance, connect, and experience the pulse of Detroit’s legendary music scene!
18) Groove Cruise
When: January 23-27, 2025 (SOLD-OUT)
Where: Miami – Bahamas (cruise festival)
Groove Cruise is the OG music festival at sea, and will definitely be one of the best experiences of your life! I’ve now attended three different Groove Cruises, and it’s simply one of the best atmospheres I’ve found in the festival scene. There is something unexplainably magical that occurs when the GCFAM gets together, and it’s honestly one of my favorite festivals in the entire world. They always deliver stacked line-ups with a mix of EDM, House, Trance, and Techno, and deliver a wide variety of unique activities.
While it may be a more expensive than some of these EDM festivals, it’s also an unforgettable vacation! Check out my reviews of previous Groove Cruises below, and I’m sure you’ll be joining the GCFAM when you can!
- Groove Cruise is the Ultimate Festival Vacation
- Groove Cruise Miami: 96 Hours of Atmospheric Bliss
- Groove Cruise is more than a Music Festival…It’s a Family Reunion
There are typically two different Groove Cruise events each year, so get some friends together, and get ready for the nautical adventure of your dreams. Trust me – you will LOVE IT!
19) Life is Beautiful
Credit: Alive Coverage
When: September 2025
Where: Downtown Las Vegas, Nevada
“Life is Beautiful takes over Downtown Las Vegas for a three-day weekend each year, promising festival-goers a host of surprises in four key areas: Art, Music, Food and Learning – truly providing something for everyone.
The lineup mixes popular acts such as Imagine Dragons, Kendrick Lamar, Major Lazer, Brandon Flowers and Hozier with classic icons such as Duran Duran and Stevie Wonder. Street art, huge murals, installations and a multi-sensory Art Motel entice art-lovers, and a VIP area – complete with celebrity chef cooking demos, real grass to lounge on and free lemonade – helps you forget the desert heat.”
20) Imagine Music Festival
When: September 2025 (TBC)
Where: Atlanta, Georgia
http://www.imaginefestival.com/
We look forward to bringing your imagination to life! Welcome to the Imagine Music Festival.
21) Hard Summer Music Festival
Credit: Doug Van Sant
When: August 2025
Where: The Speedway in Fontana, San Bernadino, California
This annual two-day mega-festival has been a Southern California favorite for over a decade, and always manages to put together an unbelievably stacked line-up, incredible stage production, and overall stellar festival experience.
The team over at HARD Events has been a key player in the growth of the EDM scene in the United States, and fun fact, my first massive rave in the USA was HARD Haunted Mansion back in 2009! From producing events like HARD Day of the Dead, Holy Ship, and HARD Red Rocks: attending one of their events will always impress!
22) Beyond Wonderland at The Gorge
When: June 21-22, 2025
Where: The Gorge Amphitheatre, Washington
Pacific Northwest’s Premier Electronic Music Festival
https://pnw.beyondwonderland.com/
“When day breaks in Wonderland, a curious cast of characters emerges, and fantastical animals of all shapes and sizes run wild. In this place beyond our imaginations, colors shine brighter, smiles are wider, and the secrets of Wonderland come to light.
We groove to the same universal beat and, together, create beautiful experiences that will never be forgotten. Venture beyond the music, into an otherworldly land of multidimensional environments, interactive feats of technology, and wonders of color and light.”
23) Rolling Loud Festival
Credit: Rolling Loud Festival
When: March & September
Where: Miami, Florida & Los Angeles, California
“Rolling Loud Festival is a 3-day music event that started in Miami, FL and is now the largest Hip-Hop festival in the world. We now also hosts festivals in Northern California and Southern California, with plans to expand internationally to Japan, China and Europe in the near future.
Some of the biggest names that have performed on the Rolling Loud stage includes the likes of Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, Future, Lil Wayne, A$AP Rocky, Travis Scott, Young Thug, Post Malone, Migos, Kodak Black, Lil Uzi Vert, 21 Savage, Lil Yachty, Lil B, and many more.”
For the hip-hop festival fans out there, this should definitely be on your dream festivals!
24) New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Credit: Joshua Brasted
When: April 24 – May 4, 2025
Where: Union Park, Chicago, Illinois
For all the jazz fans out there, if the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival isn’t on your bucket list yet, then you’re not a true jazz fan! It’s one of the longest-running and largest jazz festivals in the USA, and is the perfect time to visit the great city of New Orleans!
“Started in 1970, “Jazz Fest” continues to showcase the most important names in music both locally and nationally. Celebrating 49 years of musical and cultural memories, Jazz Fest stands alone in presenting the highest caliber artists in such varied genres as gospel, blues, traditional and contemporary jazz, rock, R&B, Cajun, country, zydeco and much more.”
25) Louder Than Life Festival
Credit: Louder Than Life Festival
When: September 18-21, 2025
Where: Highland Festival Grounds, Louisville, Kentucky
www.louderthanlifefestival.com/
4 Days. 130+ Bands. The Return of Slayer.
It All Goes Down at America’s Loudest Rock & Metal Festival.
Complete with hundreds of the biggest names in rock & roll, massive stages, unique bars, impeccable dining, and festival camping – the annual Louder Than Life festival is an adventure every rocker needs to experience for themselves.
With gourmet food, craft bourbon, and a high-energy atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for rock enthusiasts craving unforgettable live music and festival vibes.
26) Friendship Cruise Festival
Friendship Festival Cruise 2025 Line Up
When: January 6-11, 2025
Where: Miami – Belize (cruise festival)
Founded in 2018 by Gary Richards (DJ Destructo) as a replacement to his wildly successful creation of Holy Ship (which no longer does cruise festivals), Friendship Festival is the new must-attend cruise adventure for the thriving and loving SHIPFAM community.
Having personally attended Friendship, I can attest that is an adventure for the record book, and certainly not for the weak. It’s a non-st0p thrill ride for 5 days on a cruise ship with some of the world’s hottest DJ’s, artists, and performers across house, techno, dubstep, and drum & bass.
Departing from Miami and sailing to the private island of Harvest Caye, Belize — Friendship is known for combining a unique party atmosphere on board as well as the iconic island day (which you’ll have 24 hours at exclusive beach.
Enjoy all the amenities of a cruise like go-kart racing, laser tag, comedy acts and cabaret shows, in between dancing day & night to a carefully curated line-up.
27) iHeart Radio Music Festival
Photo via iHeartRadio Facebook
When: September 2025
Where: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
https://www.iheart.com/music-festival/
“Since 2011, iHeartRadio Music Festival has taken place each year in Las Vegas. It boasts a myriad of world-class musical acts, and has quickly become a fixture on the festival scene. For the first several years, the festival was held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Prepare for music overload, in the best way possible! This is truly the experience of a lifetime for music lovers of all ages. As you’ll see in a moment as we divulge this year’s lineup, it’s really no surprise that this festival has established itself as one of the most well-known and well-regarded music experiences in such a short time.”
28) Stagecoach Music Festival
Credit: Stagecoach Music Festival
When: April 25-27, 2025
Where: Empire Polo Club, Indio, California
http://www.stagecoachfestival.com/
California’s Premier Country Music Festival!
“The five-day transformation from the massive Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival into Stagecoach: California’s Country Music Festival by the Los Angeles-based Goldenvoice company is always shocking to people who go to both events.
Instead of surreal and sometimes psychedelic installation art of Coachella, there are giant cowboy boots and a bronze bucking horse. The attire morphs from flower crowns and H&M branded fashions to red, white and blue everything – including shirts, pants, bandannas and long flowing sashes bearing the U.S. flag. Held at Indio’s Empire Polo Club, this festival celebrates new and established country music artists.”
29) Portola Festival
When: September 2025
Where: San Francisco, California
https://portolamusicfestival.com/
Although relatively new having just completed its third edition in 2024, Portola has swiftly established itself as one of the best music festivals in the United States. This achievement is hardly surprising, given that it is another experience produced by Goldenvoice — the masterminds behind the globally renowned Coachella.
For two days every September, Portola Festival takes over Pier 80 in San Francisco and builds massive stages featuring an eclectic lineup of global artists, from cutting-edge DJs to genre-blending live acts. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and uniquely stacked line-up, Portola’s focus on discovery and innovation makes it a standout event, drawing crowds eager to explore new sounds and genres. With immersive stages, art installations, and a laid-back Bay Area vibe, Portola offers an unforgettable musical experience.
I attended Portola Festival for their inaugral festival in 2021 and had the time of my life! Can’t wait to see what Portola has in store for 2025!
30) Decadence Arizona
Decadence 2018 | Photo by Jacob Tyler Dunn
When: December 30-31, 2024 (New Years Eve)
Where: Phoenix Raceway, Avondale, Arizona
Arizona’s Largest EDM New Years Eve Festival
“DECADENCE is a 2-day New Year’s Eve experience that features a diverse lineup of artists that is sure to please all… If you live on the West-coast, love music, and yearn for adventure…you will want to gather your friends and make the journey to DECADENCE where you can say your final goodbyes to 2024″
Part of the larger Decadence festival series, it takes place annually in Phoenix, typically at the Phoenix Raceway. The festival features a stacked lineup of world-renowned DJs and producers across multiple stages, offering genres like house, techno, dubstep, and more.
Known for its high-energy atmosphere, immersive stage production, and dazzling visuals, Decadence Arizona draws thousands of EDM fans looking to ring in the new year with unforgettable performances and a vibrant party vibe.
31) Okeechobee Music Festival
Credit: Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival
When: On hiatus in 2025 (Returning in 2026)
Where: Okeechobee, Florida
“Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival is a 4-day surreal experience, filled with multi-genre music, immersive art and transformative events, deep in the heart of Florida’s wild wilderness.
A gathering of all walks of life where the common ground is music, magic and mystery from dusk til dawn. Taking place in early March, Okeechobee is now the first major music festival of the US festival season and provides a glimpse of touring summertime artists. The festival’s home at Sunshine Grove is a treat for campers with lush grassy fields, a sandy beach, and a majestic grove.”
32) Bumbershoot Festival
When: August 30-31, 2025
Where: Seattle, Washington
https://www.seattlecenter.com/events/festivals/bumbershoot
Seattle’s Premier Summer Music Festival
“Now approaching half a century, Bumbershoot is one of Seattle’s largest cultural touchstones. Each year, thousands of people from across the country flock to Seattle Center to attend this acclaimed festival, which has become one of the biggest and most-loved contemporary festivals in North America, while having maintained its Northwest spirit and innovative roots.”
33) Watershed Festival
When: August 1-3, 2025
Where: The Gorge Amphitheater, Washington
Watershed Country Music Festival will return to the Gorge for a wild weekend of twangin’ goodness. Put on your “Shedder gear” (trucker hats?) and get ready for three whole days of down-home studs.
Watershed Music Festival is the largest country music festival in the Pacific Northwest and is a must-attend for country fans all over the U.S (and the entire world). Located at the beautiful Gorge Amphitheater, you’ll enjoy sets by the biggest names in country music with an unbeatable backdrop!
34) Elements Music & Arts Festival
When: August 8-10, 2025
Where: Long Pond, Pennsylvania
“Anticipate hidden forests, beachfront parties, wellness workshops, outdoor activities, interactive performers, and captivating experiences of all kinds. This is Elements Lakewood.
We can’t wait to be back in the woods dancing, laughing, and inhibiting our own world together. Your energy and smiling faces inspire us to outdo ourselves each year. We’ve been dreaming all year of creating new forest escapes, treehouses, and unique experiences to surprise you with.”
It’s one of the most sought-after east coast music festivals every year and is guaranteed to be a weekend you’ll never forget!
35) Boston Calling
Credit: Boston Calling Music Festival
When: May 23-25, 2025 (Memorial Day Weekend)
Where: Boston, Massachusetts
New England’s #1 Music Festival
“Across the street from Harvard Business School, a renowned music festival shakes up the scholarly vibes of nearby Cambridge, Massachusetts, once a year.
While most music festivals tend to focus on a few genres, Boston Calling doesn’t discriminate between all the sounds you love; this is the kind of festival you attend when you’re a fan of music, through and through. If you’re the type of person who can go from dancing to lively electronic beats to headbanging to gnarly guitar riffs without delay, consider Boston Calling your music mecca.”
36) Bourbon and Beyond Festival
Credit: Bourbon and Beyond Festival
When: September 11-24, 2025
Where: Louisville, Kentucky
Offering 4-days of music, massive stages, and incredible Kentucky festival vibes, Bourbon and Beyond have placed themselves as a key player in the festival game. In 2022, they broke attendance records, but who can be surprised at that with such a STACKED line-up.
Past headliners include Kings of Leon, Alanis Morisette, Pearl Jam, and SO many more. The production level is next game, there is a ton of amazing food and drink vendors, and the atmosphere is remarkable. There’s no better way to spend your September than soaking up 4-days at B&B!
37) CRSSD Music Festival
When: March 1-2, 2025 & September 2025 (Annual Spring & Fall Editions)
Where: Waterfront Park, San Diego, California
CRSSD is a 2-Day Festival in downtown San Diego, and happens TWICE a year! They’ve always got a star-studded line-up across three stages, in a beautiful venue, and dozens of after-hours events to choose from after the festival ends. I’ve been once myself, and had an unbelievably fun time! It’s one of the best music festivals in San Diego, and shouldn’t be missed if you’re heading to southern-California when it’s going down!
Read all about my experience: Two Days of Sun & Tech at CRSSD Music Festival
“Since its inception in 2015, CRSSD Festival has created a unique enclave for the global electronic music community in San Diego. Fostered to connect the best and brightest of clubland in a setting that personifies the sun-soaked aesthetic of Southern California, the event is a pillar of the international festival calendar.”
38) III Points Festival
Credit: III Points Festival
When: October 17-18, 2025
Where: Miami, Florida
“III Points started as an Art Music and Technology festival in Wynwood that was created in 2013 by locals who felt the need for a better way to showcase local Miami talent alongside world renowned artists.
What began as a homegrown festival has now become a platform that showcases not only world class talent but shines a spotlight on local emerging artists and tech start ups giving them an opportunity to make their voices heard. III Points festival is happening in various locations all over the III Points Campus at Mana Wynwood. They cover all areas of music but always have a very strong electronic part.”
In recent years III Points has become one of the hottest names in the Florida festival scene attracting guests from all over the world with its INSANE line-ups and impressive stages.
39) Skyline Festival
Credit: Skyline Festival
When: February 15-16, 2025
Where: Grand Park, Los Angeles, California
California really has no shortage of incredible festivals, and Skyline is one of the newest parties on the list! With an iconic Downtown LA venue and delivering an unbelievable stacked line up focusing house, techno, and underground beats – Skyline has made a huge splash in the festival scene.
Insomniac’s Factory 93 and Day Trip brands, you know you’re in good hands with cutting-edge sound, multiple stages, and immersive art installations. While this may be lesser known to those outside California, this would provide a perfect time winter escape to visit California in February.
40) BottleRock Napa Valley
Credit: BottleRock Festival
When: May 23-25, 2025
Where: Napa Valley, Northern California
MUSIC. FOOD. WINE. BREW | “The First Taste of Summer”
Featuring one of the largest and most diverse line-ups brought to Northern California, Bottle Rock Napa Valley is an annual 3-day festival enjoying music, wine, food, and craft beer!
80+ bands on five music stages, Celebrity and chef performances on the culinary stage, great sight lines throughout the venue, access to gourmet food from the Napa Valley’s finest chefs and restaurateurs, and dozens of wine cabanas where you can sip, savor and mingle with your favorite vintners making every festivalgoer feel like a VIP”
Bonus Special Event — Burning Man
When:August 24 – September 1, 2025
Where: Black Rock City, Nevada (Two Hours Away from Reno)
Last, I couldn’t complete this article discussing the best parties and events in the US without mentioning Burning Man. BUT – it’s NOT A MUSIC FESTIVAL, which is why I’ve added it as a bonus special event.
After attending Burning Man for the past two years though, I can say it’s one of the most magical and life-changing experiences! It’s a temporary city filled with countless themed camps, LED lights, dust storms, techno sunrise dances, amazing people, and unbeatable burner vibes.
While it’s definitely the most challenging event on this list to prepare for, it’s by far the most rewarding and memorable. If you’re interested in attending Burning Man, feel free to reach out to me with any questions! I’m happy to discuss the 10 principles, best preparation methods, how to find a camp, and tips for getting tickets!
You can read through my articles on Burner Accessories & Burner Goggles though to help with the shopping list!
What is the biggest USA music festival?
Milwaukee’s Summerfest bills itself as the “Biggest Music Festival In The World”, and this mega event is one not to miss! Over three consecutive weekends during summer, the iconic event hosts over 800 performers across a plethora of stages, and over 800,000 music lovers attend.
What is the most famous music festival in the USA?
Coachella is easily the most well known music festival in the USA, with music fanatics flocking from all over the country (and the world!) to attend this ultra hip musical extravaganza. Coachella is held every April over two weekends at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, and each weekend welcomes 125,000 attendees. Coachella is the place to not only see the best acts in the world, but to be seen as well.
What is the largest music festival in the South?
SXSW is the largest music festival in the South. The Texas festival is an institution, having been held for decades, and each year the city of Austin hosts a staggering 2000 acts and hundreds of thousands of attendees. SXSW is the place for up and coming musicians to be discovered, and for music fans to rub enjoy premier entertainment.
What is the most popular cruise festival in the USA?
Groove Cruise is, without a doubt, the biggest and best USA cruise music festival and I can attest to how epic it is! Set sail from Miami for four unforgettable nights down to the Caribbean, all while partying to the best EDM, house and techno acts the world has to offer. This is the original cruise festival, and still continues to reign supreme.
What USA music festivals do you think deserve a spot on this list?
This list took me quite some time to put together, and I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it and finding some new events around the US! But I’d love to hear from you to see if I missed any specific event! There are thousands of festivals every year in the US (it’s a pretty massive country), so I couldn’t include all of them, but I do think I did a pretty great job at compiling the best US festivals in 2025!
US Festivals Possibly Returning in the Future
Firefly Music Festival
When:
Where: Dover, Delaware
http://www.fireflyfestival.com/
“Taking place annually in the beautiful Woodlands of Dover, Delaware – Firelfy Music Festival is the East Coast’s largest music and camping festival! Featuring incredible live performances by genre-bending artists, unique food and drink vendors and a one-of-a-kind onsite camping experience, The Great Atlantic Campout, Firefly Music Festival has become a can’t miss summer event for legions of fans.”
“Firefly. This is like the new Glastonbury of America!” – Marcus Mumford of Mumford and Sons
Kaaboo Del Mar Festival
When:
Where: Del Mar, California
Southern California’s largest music, comedy, art and culinary festival!
“Forget what you know about music festivals, we’ve shifted the paradigm and built something new. KAABOO is the perfect weekend escape, described in a word that comes from whatever the hell we feel like yelling when we’re high on life and having fun. A curated three-day sound voyage that combines rock-n-roll music and tastemaking events in a modern wonderland on the warm shores of the pacific. Where every detail is designed for your enjoyment and clean, comfortable amenities inspire you to break from your busy life, let loose and enjoy the experience. Welcome to KAABOO, the place where all of your senses align.”
Pitchfork Music Festival
When:
Where: Union Park, Chicago, Illinois
https://pitchforkmusicfestival.com
“To our Chicago Festival community: As the music festival landscape continues to evolve rapidly, we have made the difficult decision not to host Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago in 2025. For 19 years, Pitchfork Music Festival has been a celebration of music, art, and community—a space where memories were made, voices were amplified, and the shared love of music brought us all together.”
Afropunk Festival
When:
Where: Brooklyn, Miami, and Milwaukee
AFROPUNK is an influential community of young, gifted people of all backgrounds who speak through music, art, film, comedy, fashion and more. AFROPUNK is a voice for the unwritten, unwelcome and unheard.
Sonic Bloom Festival
When: June (TBC)
Where: Spanish Peaks Country, Colorado
https://sonicbloomfestival.com
“SONIC BLOOM is a 4-day camping festival that brings electronic music, dance, art and human performance together in an atmosphere that inspires open channels of co-creativity for everyone involved.”
Out of all the music festivals in Colorado, this is the one I’m DYING to go to. It looks like such an amazing festival, and I know many friends who have gone and said how amazing it is. The line-ups are always awesome, but the reason people go to is the VIBE. If you’re looking for a good Colorado festival, then this should be your top priority (in my opinion).
Looking for more music festivals in the USA?
My travel blog is filled with articles just like this that will help you find some of the most fun, magical, and awesome music festivals and parties around the United States. Check out a few of my favorite below, and feel free to reach out to me and let me know about any that I’m missing!
- 37 California Music Festivals That’ll Keep You Dancing All Year Long
- Top 20 San Diego Music Festivals | The Ultimate SD Festival Bucket List
- The Best 25 Music Festivals in Texas To Experience Before You Die
- The Top 25 Music Festivals in ARIZONA To Experience Before You Die
- The Best 25 Music Festivals in FLORIDA To Experience Before You Die
- 37 California Music Festivals That’ll Keep You Dancing All Year Long
- The 13 Best Music Festivals in New York to Experience Before You Die
- The Top 10 Music Festivals in Colorado To Experience Before You Die
- Top 21 Music Festivals in LAS VEGAS To Experience Before You Die
- 15 Epic Music Festivals in MICHIGAN To Experience Before You Die
- 20 Vancouver Music Festivals To Add To Your BUcket List
- Top 20 South American Music Festivals
- The 7 Best Music Festivals in Central America
Thanks so much for reading! See you on the dancefloor in 2025!
The article is helpful to find awesome music festivals. You have included most of the famous music festivals across the USA.
New festival in San Francisco called Portola. Very adjacent to ARC where it’s house/techno.
Such amazing USA Music festivals!
Such an amazing list of music festivals in america! THank you!
Wow such an incredible list of US Festivals! I have attended a few but tons more now on my list.
Bourbon and Beyond should have some mention. It and Louder than Life having back to back weekends in Louisville is pretty epic!
I think one of the best music festivals in the USA:
AFTERSHOCK Festival
Welcome To Rockville
Full Terror Assault Metal Festival
Louder Than Life Festival
Such a detailed and well put list, thanks for sharing!
Kerrville Folk Festival, Kerrville Texas. 18 days of amazing music.