There’s something magical about music festivals—thousands of people coming together, united by a love of music, under the open sky. Whether you’re in it for the live performances, the vibrant atmosphere, or the chance to discover new artists, music festivals are events that deserve a prime spot on your calendar every year. But with so many festivals around the world, it can be hard to decide which ones are the absolute best annual music festivals to attend.
Well, worry no more! I’ve done the research for you and rounded up the top 5 annual music festivals you should mark on your calendar. These festivals offer not only incredible music but also immersive experiences that go beyond the typical concert. So, grab your camping gear (or your glamping pass, no judgment here), mark these dates, and prepare for the time of your life!
Let’s kick things off with the king of all music festivals: Coachella. If you’ve never heard of it, are you even living in the 21st century? The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is synonymous with celebrity sightings, trendsetting fashion, and, of course, amazing music. Held annually over two weekends in Indio, California, this desert festival attracts everyone from hardcore music lovers to influencers documenting their festival fashion.
Coachella is one of the best annual music festivals for several reasons. First, the lineup is always epic, featuring some of the biggest names in music across genres. From Beyoncé’s legendary performance in 2018 to artists like Billie Eilish, Radiohead, and Travis Scott, Coachella delivers. Beyond the music, the festival grounds are a sight to behold. Art installations, food vendors serving gourmet dishes, and pop-up shops from high-end brands make Coachella more than just a concert—it’s an experience.
If you’re looking for live music events tips for Coachella, here’s a crucial one: dress comfortably, but don’t be afraid to show off your style. Coachella has become almost as famous for its fashion as its music, so expect to see plenty of boho chic, flower crowns, and Insta-ready outfits. Also, be sure to hydrate—temperatures in the desert can soar, and nothing kills festival vibes faster than dehydration!
Coachella is massive, and it’s easy to get lost or miss out on your favourite acts. Use the festival app to create your schedule, so you don’t miss a single performance. And, since Coachella is spread out over a large area, plan on lots of walking. Comfy shoes are your best friend here!
When you think of iconic festivals, Glastonbury is always near the top of the list. Held in the rolling green fields of Somerset, England, Glastonbury is the quintessential British festival experience. It’s been running since 1970, and over the years, it has grown into one of the largest and most well-known festivals in the world. What makes Glastonbury stand out is its eclectic mix of music, performance art, and activism, which combine to create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Glastonbury’s lineup is as diverse as its audience. It has featured everyone from David Bowie and The Rolling Stones to contemporary stars like Kendrick Lamar and Adele. But it’s not just about the headliners; Glastonbury has numerous stages, each catering to different tastes, whether you’re into rock, pop, electronic, or world music. It’s one of the best annual music festivals because there’s something for everyone.
One of the unique aspects of Glastonbury is its commitment to sustainability and social justice. The festival has a strong environmental ethos, encouraging festival-goers to minimize waste, and it supports various charitable causes. If you’re a fan of both music and saving the planet, Glastonbury is your festival.
Glastonbury is notorious for its unpredictable weather. Even if the forecast says sunshine, be prepared for mud. Bring waterproof boots and a rain poncho, and, if you can afford it, consider upgrading to one of the festival’s glamping options to avoid being soaked in a leaky tent!
If you’re a fan of electronic dance music (EDM), Tomorrowland is your utopia. Held annually in Boom, Belgium, this festival has become one of the most renowned electronic music festivals globally. Tomorrowland isn’t just a festival; it’s a full-blown fantasy world where DJs are the heroes, and you’re the adventurer, dancing your way through different stages, each with its unique theme.
Tomorrowland is an absolute must for any EDM fan. The festival boasts a jaw-dropping production value with elaborate stage designs that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a parallel universe. And the lineup? Well, think of the biggest names in electronic music: Martin Garrix, Armin van Buuren, Tiësto, and Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, to name just a few.
Tomorrowland stands out not just for its music but for the sense of community it fosters. With attendees from all over the globe waving their country’s flags, it feels like the United Nations of EDM. Tomorrowland also offers various packages, including its signature DreamVille camping experience. If you’re looking for live music events tips, here’s one: stay in DreamVille. It’s a festival within a festival, with its pre-parties and a sense of camaraderie that will elevate your experience.
Tomorrowland tickets sell out almost instantly. If you plan on going, mark your calendar for ticket release day, and be ready to refresh your browser like your life depends on it. Also, check out the Global Journey packages, which include transport and accommodation—ideal if you’re coming from far away.
Lollapalooza has become one of the most beloved festivals in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. Held in Chicago’s iconic Grant Park, Lolla offers an impressive blend of music genres, from rock to hip-hop, pop, and electronic. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of a specific genre or someone who just loves discovering new artists, Lollapalooza has something for everyone.
What makes Lollapalooza one of the best annual music festivals is its inclusivity. The festival’s lineup is known for blending well-established artists with up-and-coming acts, giving you the chance to catch both your favourites and the next big thing. Past lineups have featured artists like The Weeknd, Foo Fighters, Miley Cyrus, and Post Malone.
Lolla also has a stellar reputation for its food scene, offering a variety of gourmet options in Chow Town, which is more of a foodie paradise than your typical festival food court. If you’re someone who loves both great music and great eats, Lollapalooza has you covered.
Chicago summers can be hot and humid, so wear light clothing and pack sunscreen. And while Lollapalooza does allow re-entry, try to plan your day so you can minimize leaving the festival grounds—once you’re inside, it’s an all-day party!
Burning Man isn’t your typical music festival. Calling it a music festival might be underselling it. It’s more of a temporary city, created by its participants, where art, music, self-expression, and community come together in the middle of the Nevada desert. Each year, tens of thousands of people gather for this week-long event, which culminates in the burning of a giant wooden effigy.
Burning Man is different from the other best annual music festivals because it’s not just about the music. Sure, there are DJs and live performances, but the real draw of Burning Man is the experience itself. Participants (they’re not called attendees because everyone is expected to contribute to the event) create art installations, workshops, performances, and theme camps. You’re not just there to watch—you’re there to be a part of it.
One of the key principles of Burning Man is radical self-reliance. There are no vendors, and no cash exchanges—everything operates on a gifting economy. So, you’ll need to bring all your supplies (think: water, food, shelter) and be prepared for the harsh desert conditions.
If you plan on going to Burning Man, preparation is key. The desert environment is unforgiving, with scorching daytime temperatures and freezing nights. Make sure you pack plenty of water, layers of clothing, and lots of sunscreen. Also, remember that there’s no cell service in Black Rock City, so be ready to disconnect from the outside world entirely.
There you have it—the top 5 best annual music festivals to mark on your calendar. Whether you’re drawn to the desert vibes of Coachella, the eclectic mix at Glastonbury, the electric energy of Tomorrowland, the genre-blending lineup of Lollapalooza, or the radical self-expression of Burning Man, each of these festivals offers something unique. No matter which you choose, the live music, immersive atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences will make it a highlight of your year.
And if you’re new to the festival scene or trying to plan your summer, keep this local concert guide handy. You don’t need to limit yourself to one festival—why not make a list and start ticking them off, one unforgettable experience at a time? For the ultimate experience, take note of these live music event tips: arrive early, plan ahead, and don’t forget to soak in the atmosphere. Music festivals are about more than just the performances—they’re about connecting with like-minded people, sharing unforgettable moments, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. See you at the next festival!
This content was created by AI