Looking for the best music festivals in California in 2025? Well, you’ve come to the right place, because I’ve put together the ultimate guide to California Music Festivals for your bucket list!
There’s arguably no better destination in the U.S.A. that can compare to the incredible production, loving communities, unique venues, and star-studded line-ups found at all these festivals in California. Being born and raised in Orange County, I’ve been fortunate to attend a lot of these festivals myself, and they truly are spectacular! From Southern California up to the Bay area, there are festivals ranging in all shapes and sizes spanning every musical genre.
So without further ado…here are what I think are the best California Music Festivals to keep you dancing, partying, and loving life all year long!
1) Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival
Coachella is my personal favorite of all the California Music Festivals!!
When: April 11-13 & April 18-20, 2025 (Two weekends)
Where: Empire Polo Club, Indio, California
Coachella is one of California’s oldest and most epic music & art festivals, and will certainly be a weekend experience that you’ll never forget. Every year they bring an unbelievably stacked line-up spanning every genre, massively beautiful stage production, incredible food & drink vendors, and a really solid festival atmosphere. While Coachella may have gotten a reputation for being all about celebrities and fashion in recent years…it’s still one hell of a party!
While I’ve only personally attended twice (in 2014 & 2018), both weekends have been so insanely fun, and I’d recommend it to every music festival addict! Get your festival squad together, go through this music festival camping essentials checklist, and prepare for one of the best weekends of your life!
Being a favorite among the dozens of quality music festivals in California, tickets do sell-out almost instantly, so make sure your festival squad plans ahead and scoop up some tickets while you can!
2) Outside Lands Music Festival
When: August 8-10, 2025
Where: Golden Gate Park, San Fransisco, California
https://www.sfoutsidelands.com/
Outside Lands is Northern California’s biggest and best music festival, and is definitely an event you’ll fall in love with! While it may be one of the more pricier events on the list (everything is more expensive in San Francisco), it’s worth every penny! The line-ups are always impressively diverse, the production is truly top-notch, and you’ll be blown away when you walk around the venue at night ogling at all the colorful lighting in the trees.
Check out my festival reviews from 2017 & 2018:
- Outside Lands Music Festival: The Ultimate Golden Gate Park Party
- Outside Lands Festival 2018 | Top 10 Weekend Highlights
This annual 3-day California festival is a favorite among San Francisco locals and tourists alike, and there’s arguably no better time to visit SF because there’s so much going on! You’ll want to book accommodation in advance though, as the city (especially hotels near Golden Gate Park) get booked up quite quickly!
3) Hard Summer Music Festival
Credit: Doug Van Sant
When: August 2025
Where: San Bernadino, California
This annual mega-festival has been a Southern California favorite for over a decade, and always manages to put together an unbelievably impressive 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!
4) 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”
5) Day Trip Festival 2025
When: June 2025
Where: Long Beach, California
House Music All Day Long
Insomniac’s brand new Southern California festival is bringing some of the biggest and best names in house music for two incredible days of fun! Celebrate the return of festival season at a brand new venue with delicious craft cocktails, gourmet food trucks, and iconic Day Trip fishbowls.
With artists like Diplo, Artbat, Chromeo, and Justin Martin – this is an event all you so-cal house heads won’t want to miss!
6) 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.”
7) Splash House Festival
Credit: Splash House Palm Springs
When: June & August 2025
Where: Palm Springs, California
If Coachella Pool parties & Las Vegas day clubs made a baby…
“Splash House is what you get when you mix up fun-loving people, with some rocking pool parties, and an escape to sunny Palm Springs, California. It’s a little slice of paradise where friendships are forged as people dance to the best in house, disco, and electronica. Splash House takes place across three hotel resorts in both June and August. Buy a ticket and you get admission to all three, plus shuttles running between all weekend. Buy a hotel package and you can enjoy a room just steps away from the stage in addition to access to all three resorts. By night, we take flight at the Palm Springs Air Museum for our After Hours program – a pair of open air parties back-dropped by vintage aircraft and a glowing airport tarmac. After Hours admission is sold separately and may be purchased with or without a Splash House ticket.”
8) Lightning In a Bottle
Credit: Juliana Bernstein
When: May 21-25, 2025
Where: Buena Vista Lake, California
Celebrating Art, Music, Performance, Sustainability & Life.
Lightning in a Bottle, or more commonly referred to as “LIB”, is the largest transformational music festival in California. 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 certainly can a life-changing California 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! Some people have referred to it even as a “mini Burning Man”, and will be an experience that’ll keep you coming back every year!
9) Nocturnal Wonderland
Credit: Juliana Bernstein
When: September 2025
Where: San Bernadino, California
https://www.nocturnalwonderland.com/
Family. Community. Culture.
Gather, one and all, for North America’s longest-running electronic dance music festival! A classic favorite among EDM fans, Insomniac’s annual ode to the night brings you multiple stages of the best in dance music and cutting-edge production, as well as hundreds of costumed performers, fireworks and carnival rides. We also offer camping! It’s a fun way to extend your experience and fully immerse yourself in the Nocturnal community.
Enter a world of sights and sounds as vibrant and unique as those who have come, year after year, to behold its fantastical mysteries. In this place, curious creatures of all shapes and sizes move to the vibrations of the night. What new adventures will our journey hold? Come with us and see.”
10) Same Same But Different Festival
Credit: Same Same But Different Festival
When: September 2025
Where: Lake Perris State Park, California
Same Same But Different Festival (SSBD) is a vibrant, feel-good music and arts festival set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Perris in Southern California. Known for its laid-back, beachy vibes, SSBD combines live music, yoga, wellness workshops, and immersive art to create a soulful, rejuvenating experience. The festival embraces a “choose your own adventure” spirit, where attendees can float in the lake, dance to diverse music acts, or chill in hammocks under the sun.
Musically, SSBD showcases an eclectic mix—from funk and reggae to electronic and indie sounds. Beyond the tunes, the festival celebrates community, creativity, and connection, with interactive art installations, mindful movement sessions, and plenty of opportunities to unwind and recharge. It’s a weekend of discovery, relaxation, and celebration—where the differences are what make it magical.
11) Rolling Loud
Credit: Rolling Loud Festival
When: March 14-16, 2025
Where: Hollywood State Park, Los Angeles
The World’s Largest Hip-Hop Festival
What originated in Miami has slowly become a world-dominating and touring rap and hip-hop festival! It’s a high-energy, multi-day event that transforms sunny Cali into a rap lover’s paradise.
Featuring a stacked lineup of chart-topping artists, underground talent, and surprise guests, it’s a nonstop celebration of beats, bars, and culture. With massive stages, wild pyrotechnics, and immersive art installations, it feels like a giant block party with a festival twist. Streetwear enthusiasts and sneakerheads flaunt their freshest fits, adding to the electric vibe. Beyond the music, food trucks and merch stands keep the crowd fueled and dripping in style. It’s not just a festival—it’s a lifestyle experience!
12) California Roots Festival
When: May 23-25, 2025 (Memorial Day weekend)
Where: Monterey Country Fairgrounds, Monterey
https://californiarootsfestival.com/
Featuring some of the biggest names in reggae, rock, folk, and hip-hop in the world!
“California Roots isn’t just a music festival; it’s a movement. It’s a way of life. It delivers a cosmic blend of good vibes, true happiness, family, peace, love and joy to all who enter. When Jimi Hendrix torched his guitar at the Monterey Pop Festival in the late ‘60’s, he changed the way an entire generation looked not only at music festivals, but life itself.
It is out of this same pure energy–the energy of natural and peaceful rebellion–that California Roots was born. We discovered the ecstasy that culminates from listening to awesome music, smiling at your neighbors and dancing with strangers; California Roots is about living life to the fullest.”
13) High Sierra Music Festival
When: July 3-6, 2025
Where: Quincy, California
“Celebrating everything we love about the sweet mountain high music that keeps us singing all year long.”
High Sierra Music Festival is one of the longest-running events in California, having just finished it’s 29th edition in 2019! Every year they bring a wide variety of entertainment, family-friendly fun, and an epic festival camping experience. It’s guaranteed to be a highlight your summer complete with top-notch music, fire-dancers, movement classes, colorful parades, and silent-discos!
14) Beyond Wonderland Music Festival
Credit: Orhun Uygur
When: March 22-23, 2024
Where: Nos Events Center, San Bernadino, California
“Embark on an adventure to the far side of the forest, exploring what exists Beyond Wonderland.”
Insomniac Events are known for throwing some of the biggest and craziest raves in California, and Beyond Wonderland is definitely one you cannot miss! They always deliver a world-class line-up, beautiful stage production, and a loving PLUR filled atmosphere! Expect wild pyrotechnics, wild outfits, and pounding bass for a weekend you’ll never forget!
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.”
15) Joshua Tree Music Festival
Credit: Vivian Lee
When: May 15-18 and October 9-12, 2025 (Two Festivals)
Where: Joshua Tree National Park, California
www.joshuatreemusicfestival.com
Desert is Freedom. Music is Power. Community is Crucial.
“JTMF is a resource-generating powerhouse of passionate creativity, community empowerment, and arts education for all ages. A family inclusive global music experience in the magical Mojave. Committed to radical inclusion, this three day (and four night) funky desert-style festivals create experiences where passion, purpose, family, and friends come together, and the boundary between performer and patron is blurred. The music is diverse and eclectic, from dance-world-electro-funk’n groove to soulful global-ethno melodies.
Joshua Tree Music Festival promotes personal growth through a variety of multidisciplinary workshops, such as yoga and movement, visual arts, music, and myth. A robust schedule of Kidsville activities makes JTMF one of the top family-friendly festivals in the country. Magnificent art installations and a world market further inspire, intrigue, and invite festival-goers. Our mission is to foster social interaction on a deep level, creating positive life-changing moments.”
16) Stagecoach Music Festival
When: April 25-29, 2025
Where: Empire Polo Club, Indio, California
http://www.stagecoachfestival.com/
California’s Premier Country Music Festival
If you’re a fan of country music, then there’s arguably no better festival in the entire world than Stagecoach. It’s hosted the weekend after Coachella ends, and has all the same stages & production, so it’s definitely an experience to check-out. While I haven’t personally attended Stagecoach, I’ve heard from tons of people (who don’t normally listen to country) that it’s truly an amazing event!
If you’re a fan of country, take a read through this article on the Top 25 Country Music Festivals in the U.S.A!
“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.”
17) Northern Nights Music Festival
Credit: Peter Karas
When: July 18-20, 2025
Where: Cook Valley, California
MUSIC | ART | REDWOODS | RIVER | CAMPING | YOGA | CANNABIS
Northern Nights music festival is a 3-day celebration of music, art, food and local culture!
“Our mission is to produce NNMF, founded on passionate support for & a strong understanding of emerging underground music industries AND featuring sought out producers & DJs from regions around the globe. Our collective hope is to sustain NNMF as a premiere destination festival that offers a unique opportunity to fully embrace a truly Californian experience. Lighting, sound & stage production for the stages is a collaboration between the Bay Area’s finest production teams partnering with experienced local talent. Adding to top-notch music talent, NNMF proudly features local & global arts and crafts, a collection of regional craft brews & wines, a mindful space for yoga and meditation, organic food offerings, and local non-for-profit vendors.”
Cook’s Valley Campground is a festival site unlike any other. It is a rare gem.
18) Dreamstate Festival
Photo via Dreamstate FB
When: November 2025
Where: San Francisco, California
All trance, all the time. You’re not living in reality anymore, you’re living in Dreamstate.
“Envision a world where ethereal beats and timeless melodies abduct you from the everyday and take you to a higher state. Insomniac’s brand-new, all-trance event brings that vision to life. This music has the power to connect, the power to soothe, and the power to heal. It’s time to experience that power together. Get your boarding passes and prepare to enter Dreamstate.”
19) West Coast Weekender
When: October 2025
Where: San Diego, California
http://www.westcoastweekender.net/
A weekend of West Coast sunshine, pool parties, pop up dance classes, yoga classes, dance parties, and your favorite selectors.
“A celebration of music, dance, and culture in Southern California, the music conference and festival is blossoming right alongside San Diego’s incredible cultural renaissance. With nearly half of attendees coming from out of town, the West Coast Weekender audience rings in a truly one-of-a-kind vibe. The influx of activity—plus the San Diego underground community’s enthusiasm—creates an infectious, old school energy that’s of another era.”
20) Escape Halloween: Psycho Circus
When: October 31 – November 1, 2025
Where: NOS Event Center, San Bernadino, California
“Sinister sights and rattling sounds will shock, amaze, beguile, astound. Escape with us, and come inside — the Psycho Circus has arrived! Each realm of Escape Halloween offers up a unique musical treat, full of audiovisual trickery to captivate your soul. Prepare yourself for two nights of monstrous beats as we bring you a multi-genre musical experience that will slay you.”
ESCAPE is one of Insomniac Events’ top music festivals that’s been running annually since 2011. Complete with walk-through mazes themed stages, and costumed performers – this is a Halloween Rave you need to check out at least once!
21) Desert Daze
La Femme performance, Desert Daze 2017
When: October 2025
Where: Lake Perris, California
“Over the last decade, an idea became an experiment, an experiment a revision, suddenly a series, a ritual, and then something greater than the sum of its parts. Connecting many people through time, space and spirit. The curious, the convinced, and the reluctant became witnesses. Witnesses became visitors. Visitors left as passengers and returned with more. The “where” or the “what” becomes secondary to discovery, however many times you may need discovery to happen.
Since 2018, Desert Daze has found a home at Lake Perris, located 1.5 hours SE of Los Angeles. Featuring a beautiful lake, sandy beach, well-maintained campgrounds with permanent restroom and shower facilities, the grounds also feature tree-lined shade areas throughout, nestled inside an unbroken horizon of mountain ranges. The lake and shore are available to everyone for swimming and lounging. Whether coming for the day or staying the night, join us for an unparalleled concert and festival experience worthy of our tenth anniversary.”
22) Stilldream Campout Festival
When: June 2025
Where: Blue Mountain Event Center, Wilseyville, California
https://stilldreamfestival.com/
“Stilldream was formed in June of 2000, by a group of like-minded individuals from the Sierra Foothills, and Sacramento, interested in the preservation of events of an earthy, intimate nature, which were becoming more and more scarce at the time.
A common love for music, community, nature, culture, and consciousness has encouraged us all to unite and give back to the community that has always given us love, and inspiration and provided growth. In the short years of our existence, Stilldream has gone from throwing intimate parties for our friends in a barn, to inviting thousands to take part in our events in venues with decades of rich musical history.”
23) The Untz Festival
Credit: Jacob Avanzato
When: May 9-11, 2025
Where: Browns Valley, California
http://www.theuntzfestival.com/
The Untz Festival is for the bass-lovers out there focusing on all the bass-heavy genres like dubstep, glitch hop, and of course drum and bass. Known for its immersive experience, impeccable sound, and festival atmosphere.
In addition to music, The Untz Festival offers art installations, workshops, yoga, and wellness activities, creating a holistic experience for attendees. The event also features camping options, including walk-in and RV setups, and is eco-friendly and family-oriented. Performers like Liquid Stranger, Subtronics, and Koan Sound have been part of past lineups, making it a must-attend for all the bass ravers out there
24) Aftershock Festival
Credit: Aftershock Festival
When: October 2-5, 2025
Where: Discovery Park, Sacramento, California
https://aftershockfestival.com
Welcome to California’s a high-octane, rock-and-metal extravaganza ignites Sacramento’s Discovery Park every fall.
Picture four days of pure energy, packed with epic performances from legendary bands and rising stars alike. From headbanging to heavy riffs under the golden California sun to nightfall moshing beneath glowing stage lights, Aftershock is a sonic adventure like no other.
Festival-goers indulge in gourmet food trucks, craft beer gardens, and adrenaline-pumping attractions between sets. With a diverse lineup spanning genres from hard rock to alternative and punk, there’s something for every rock lover. The crowd? Electric. The vibes? Unforgettable. If you crave a weekend of fierce music, killer community, and non-stop fun, Aftershock is your ultimate rock festival paradise.
25) 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 premier music festivals in the United States. This achievement is hardly surprising, given that it is 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!
26) Ojai Music Festival
When: June 5-8, 2025
Where: Ojai, California
“The Ojai Music Festival has been raising a finely calibrated ruckus each spring since 1947.” – Alex Ross, The New Yorker
“Every year open-minded audiences gather in the idyllic Ojai Valley to experience a four-day curated music festival – the only one of its kind. Each Festival’s narrative thread is guided by a different music director, who offers a wildly distinctive style and point of view. These annual directors are more than conductors, soloists, or musicians. They are musical thinkers who approach their craft with creativity and responsibility to the music of today.”
“The Ojai Music Festival represents an ideal of adventurous, open-minded and open-hearted programming in the most beautiful and welcoming of settings, with audiences and artists to match its aspirations. As its 75th anniversary approaches, the Festival remains a hallmark for groundbreaking musical experiences with a narrative thread guided by a different music director. These annual directors are more than conductors, composers, soloists, or musicians. They are musical thinkers who approach their craft with creativity and responsibility to the present day.”
![A delightful finale to a one-of-a-kind Festival! [2023 Ojai Music Festival]](https://www.jonesaroundtheworld.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FJ6nBpSPSNRQ%2F0.jpg)
27) Beachlife Festival
When: May 2-4, 2025
Where: Redondo Beach, California
https://beachlifefestival.com/
“Our mission is to inspire community, authenticity, and generosity through the celebration of music, art, and our Southern California beachlife culture.”
“We were lucky enough to grow up in Southern California on the beach — surfing, hanging out with sand between our toes, vibing with friends, and living the beach life. Our culture celebrates the power and beauty of the ocean and coastal resources — our waves, wind, smell of sea salt, beaches, sand, and wildlife that call this their home. We will protect this lifestyle at any cost because it is the central theme to our lives, and each day we celebrate the relaxed lifestyle that has grown out of this environment. So if you have it in your blood, or if you are brand new to it, we welcome you at beachlife to hang with us, vibe, and enjoy.”
28) Monterey Jazz Festival
Credit: Monterey Jazz Festival California
When: September 26-28, 2025
Where: Monterey County Fairgrounds, California
“The Monterey Jazz Festival is an annual music festival that takes place in Monterey, California, United States. It debuted on October 3, 1958, championed by Dave Brubeck and co-founded by jazz and popular music critic Ralph J. Gleason and jazz disc jockey Jimmy Lyons.”
29) The All Day I Dream Festival
When: May 2025 (TBC)
Where: Oakdale, California
https://thealldayidreamfestival.com/
Over the past decade Lee Burridge’s All Day I Dream has captured the imagination and hearts of music lovers everywhere, offering magical daytime experiences that focus on the community as much as the music. In 2022, the consummate emotive party took it to the next level with its first-ever weekend long camping event in the lush surrounds of California’s Woodward Reservoir in Oakdale, California.
30) CRSSD Proper NYE
When: December 30-31, 2024
Where: Monterey County Fairgrounds, California
“FNGRS CRSSD has announced the lineup for its newest event PROPER NYE, a two-day, three stage event set to ring in the new year in San Diego. On the heels of a sold out Fall edition of CRSSD Festival this past weekend, PROPER NYE brings over 20 of electronic music’s biggest and most in-demand names to Gallagher Square and the field at Petco Park for a dual New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebration. The event will deliver the same forward-thinking, top tier house and techno curation the FNGRS CRSSD brand is known for.”
California Music Festivals Possibly Returning in the Future
California is the festival capital of the USA, so there are tons of amazing events that have happened in the past that unfortunately haven’t announced any new editions moving forward into 2025 – so while updating this article I still wanted to give them some recognition in case they return (as they are some of my personal favorites).
Dirtybird Campout Westcoast
You’re never too old to go to summer camp! Dust off your camping gear and calibrate your compasses, Dirtybird Campout is coming…
When: TBC
Where: Modesto Reservoir Campgrounds, California
Dirtybird Campout is without a doubt one of the wildest California festivals parties ever attended! I’ve been a HUGE FAN of the Dirtybird Label for years, and they really go above and beyond to provide an unforgettable adult summer camp/music festival experience. Dirtybird is known for it’s unique bass house sounds, and it attracts a fun-loving group of people that goes beyond a typical festival experience!
Read my Dirtybird Campout 2016 Festival Review to get a better understanding of what to expect.
Kaaboo Del Mar Music Festival
When: September, 2024
Where: Del Mar Racetrack & Fairgrounds, San Diego, California
“Forget what you know about music festivals. This is a music experience. A completely curated three-day sound voyage that combines rock-n-roll music and tastemaking socials into a modern wonderland on the warm shores of the Pacific. Where every detail is crafted for your enjoyment and you bask in world-class music, incredible cuisine, craft libations, comedy acts, contemporary art, dancing and premium amenities. This is your escape to the perfect weekend. So venture to the horizon with us this September in Del Mar, California. See you on the other side.”
Lucidity Festival
When:
Where: Live Oak Campground, Santa Barbara, California
Sound baths, acro yoga, dance workshops, fire breathers, circus performers, food vendors, fashion stalls, blacklight tea parties, cacao ceremonies, art galleries, epic DJs, live bands, crazy costumes, and an incredible amount of Oxytocin filled hugging. I had an unbelievably magical experience at Lucidity Festival, and think the world would be a better place if everyone attended it once in their life. It’s truly one of the most unique, colorful, and intimate community-oriented camping festivals I’ve ever attended!
Check out my review article about my experience here: Ludicity Festival – Rising Dawn | Top 12 Festival Highlights!
Wanderlust Squaw Valley
When: TBC
Where: Squaw Valley, California
http://wanderlust.com/festivals/
Wanderlust is different than your standard music festival, as it’s more of a retreat/ getaway/ vacation with a big emphasis on music and community! The few friends I know who have attended told me it’s truly special! They also host events ALL around the world, so definitely worth checking out their website and keeping up-to-date with their calendar if you’re into this type of transformational event!
“For 10 years, Wanderlust has gathered teachers, experts, musicians, and creators at stunning resorts for transformational experiences—each unique unto itself. Over the last decade, yogis have grown their practice, connected with community, and made life-altering discoveries.
Music is the heartbeat of Wanderlust festivals. You’ll feel the pulse in the subtle spinning of a brilliant DJ, in the sweet rhythms of our acoustic meditations, and classes accompanied by perfectly paired beats will leave your body awash in energy. Whatever your taste, the musical discoveries that await at Wanderlust will leave you with new favorites for practice and party alike.”
What to bring to these music festivals in California?
I’ve written a couple really fun guides for packing and festival accessories. Check out a few of my favorite posts below for more info:
- Top 10 Festival Hydration Packs
- Top 10 Festival Fanny Packs
- The 12 Best Festival Gadgets To Enhance Your Experience
- 44 Festival Accessories, Must-Haves & Essentials
- 12 Epic Festival Gadgets to Enhance Your Festival Experience
- The 10 Best Festival Shoes in 2020
- 14 Perfect Gift Ideas for Music Festival Lovers
- Burning Man Accessories, Clothing & Outfit Essentials
- The 10 Best Burning Man Goggles
Am I Missing Any Epic California Music Festivals…?
While I’m sure there are tons more for all different genres of music, I’m pretty these are all the biggest and best music festivals and events in California. I hope this article gave you some inspiration, and I hope to see you at one of these music festivals throughout the year. I’m always flying back to California for different events, and there’s a good chance you’ll see me dressed in a crazy outfit, taking photos of all the beautiful people who attend these different festivals.
Looking for music festivals around the world…?
My website is filled with articles about the best music festivals in the world, so take a browse through some of the posts below – and start planning
- Top 50 Music Festivals in the USA
- The 30 Best Music Festivals in Europe To Experience Before You Die
- Top 20 EDM Festivals in the USA
- The 25 Best Music Festivals in Asia
- Top 20 Music Festivals in Canada To Experience Before You Die
- 30 Music Festivals in Australia To Experience Before You Die
- 10 Music Festivals in Washington To Experience Before You Die
- Top 10 Music Festivals in Colorado To Experience Before You Die
- The 25 Best Music Festivals in Florida
- The 25 Best Music Festivals in Texas
- The Top 25 Music Festivals in Arizona To Experience Before You Die
Credit: WatcharaPhoto
Thanks so much for reading my California Music Festivals 2024 Guide!
Share this list with your California festival squad!
Loved this article. I’m a seasoned Raver/Festival dancer and performer. You gave such great info. One thing! Your site crashed about 10 times while trying to read this article. Check with your server and see if they can help you. Blessings
Strawberry Music Festivals, World Fest, and Kate Wolf Music Festivals are some great California Festivals that are not on your list.
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas basically trumps all Cali festivals stacked. I understand why you haven’t included it due to State lines & i’m sure you’ll have nightmares for not even mentioning it. Kind of like talking about your family without mentioning your bros & sis. Shame on you :)
How do you leave out Aftershock? 90.000 people in Sacramento didn’t show up on your radar?
Yes!Very Good Review of Some of the Most interesting and attractive Music and Crafts festivals in One of the most Enchanting places on Earth;California.
Sowcases like Escape :Psycho Circus,Desert Daze and Aftrshock are some of Our favorites.
And do Not forget the Burger Boogaloo for a taste of some campy Americana.
Keep Up the Great Work Mr.Jones!
Do Not Be Critical of Mr. Jones and Contribute more to His excellent Work.
Read at the end of His Festival Review;He asks If Am I Missing any Festivals,Please Contribute.
Do Not Criticize.
Thanks Again!
Mr.Jones
Enjoyed reading this, and I would love to experience some of these oneday.
SnowGlobe is never coming back :( they announced it a few months ago. Rip. Also how did we skip Camp Flog Gnaw?
hell is other people
For the Funk of It – Belden, Ca