Your Essential Guide to Music Festival Season: Lineups, Tickets, and Must-See Acts

Grab your sunscreen and fire up those group texts: music festival season is officially upon us! Starting with iconic gatherings like Coachella and Stagecoach, it’s an exhilarating time for music lovers everywhere. This article will walk you through what to expect from this year’s biggest festivals, along with essential details like ticket information, standout artists, and hidden gems to discover.

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Sonic Temple

Overview

Kick off your festival season with Sonic Temple in Columbus, Ohio. This four-day extravaganza will showcase over 140 acts, making it a must-attend for hard rock and heavy metal enthusiasts. Catch performances from titans like My Chemical Romance, Tool, and Megadeth, who is on its farewell tour.

• When: May 14-17
• Where: Historic Crew Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
• Headliners: My Chemical Romance, Shinedown, Tool, Megadeth.
• Don’t Miss: Novelists, Zakk Sabbath.
• Tickets: Ranging from $199 to $2,318.

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Bottlerock

Overview

What better way to celebrate Memorial Day weekend than with Bottlerock in Napa Valley, California? Dubbed the “first taste of summer,” this festival brings together rock, pop, and hip-hop legends like Foo Fighters, LCD Soundsystem, and Lorde over three days.

• When: May 22-24
• Where: Napa Valley Expo, Napa, California
• Headliners: Foo Fighters, Lorde, Lil Wayne, Backstreet Boys.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: The Heavy Heavy, Folk Bitch Trio.
• Tickets: Available from $299 to $10,995.

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Movement

Overview

Celebrating its 20th year, Movement is the place to be for electronic dance music lovers. This festival highlights Detroit’s rich musical heritage while presenting an impressive lineup of techno artists.

• When: May 25-27
• Where: Hart Plaza, Detroit
• Headliners: Carl Cox, Dom Dolla, Green Velvet.
• Don’t Miss: Neil Frances, Mija.
• Tickets: Price range is $227 to $533.

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Roots Picnic

Overview

Hosted by hip-hop legends The Roots, this festival takes place in Philadelphia every year and is known for its high-profile collaborations and unique performances. This year sees the legendary Jay-Z headlining.

• When: May 30-31
• Where: Belmont Plateau, Philadelphia
• Headliners: Jay-Z, Erykah Badu, T.I.
• Don’t Miss: De La Soul, Bilal.
• Tickets: Ranging from $250 to $1,499.

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The Governors Ball

Overview

Now in its 16th year, The Governors Ball combines a rich lineup of artists against the stunning backdrop of New York City. Expect to see performances from artists across various genres.

• When: June 5-7
• Where: Flushing Meadows Corona Park, New York City
• Headliners: Lorde, A$AP Rocky, Kali Uchis.
• Don’t Miss: Wet Leg, Japanese Breakfast.
• Tickets: Prices range from $179 to $1,499.

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Bonnaroo

Overview

This iconic festival spans four days and attracts thousands to Manchester, Tennessee. Year after year, Bonnaroo delivers an eclectic mix of artists, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

• When: June 11-14
• Where: Manchester, Tennessee
• Headliners: The Strokes, Noah Kahan, Skrillex.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Geese, Mt. Joy.
• Tickets: Available from $175 to $27,500.

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Telluride Bluegrass Festival

Overview

Nestled in a picturesque mountain town, Telluride Bluegrass Festival is a staple for bluegrass fans. It features breathtaking views alongside an impressive lineup.

• When: June 18-21
• Where: Telluride, Colorado
• Headliners: Tedeschi Trucks Band, Larkin Poe.
• Don’t Miss: Chris Thile, Punch Brothers.
• Tickets: Priced between $135 to $420.

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Electric Forest

Overview

Dive into a whimsical experience at Electric Forest, held in a magical forest setting in Michigan. Prepare for vibrant costumes and immersive stage designs while dancing to some of EDM’s biggest names.

• When: June 25-28
• Where: Rothbury, Michigan
• Headliners: Kaskade, Passion Pit.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Rio Kosta, Side Piece.
• Tickets: Prices range from $600 to $13,700.

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Beyond Wonderland

Overview

Channel your inner Alice at Beyond Wonderland, where you can experience multiple weekends of EDM performances that cover various genres.

• When: June 6-7 and June 26-28
• Where: Northerly Island, Chicago; Gorge Amphitheater, George, WA
• Headliners: Zedd, Tiesto.
• Don’t Miss: Angrybaby, San Holo.
• Tickets: Available from $220 to $372.

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Wilco’s Solid Sound Festival

Overview

Curated by the alt-country pioneers Wilco, this festival features a lineup of not just music but also art exhibitions and live performance.

• When: June 28-30
• Where: MassMOCA, North Adams, Massachusetts
• Headliners: Wilco, Billy Bragg.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Sharp Pins, Hannah Cohen.
• Tickets: Ranging from $157 to $4,678.

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Willie Nelson’s Fourth of July Picnic

Overview

Celebrate Independence Day at Willie Nelson’s Fourth of July Picnic, featuring a star-studded lineup in Austin, Texas.

• When: July 4
• Where: Germania Insurance Amphitheater, Austin, Texas
• Headliners: Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Lily Meola.
• Tickets: Ranging from $30 to $589.

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Minnesota Yacht Club

Overview

In just its third year, the Minnesota Yacht Club is already making waves. Expect nostalgia-heavy lineups filled with popular bands from the ’90s and beyond.

• When: July 17-19
• Where: Harriet Island Regional Park, St. Paul, Minnesota
• Headliners: The Lumineers, Matchbox Twenty.
• Don’t Miss: Lord Huron, Lucy Dacus.
• Tickets: Priced from $155 to $2,300.

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Mosswood Meltdown

Overview

Hosted by filmmaker John Waters, this punk music festival in Oakland celebrates everything from indie rock legends to emerging voices.

• When: July 17-19
• Where: Mosswood Park, Oakland, California
• Headliners: Iggy Pop, Bikini Kill.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Vivian Girls, Mannequin Pussy.
• Tickets: Available from $99 to $399.

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Levitate Music and Arts Festival

Overview

Focusing on community and family, Levitate is known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful coastal location.

• When: July 18-19
• Where: Marshfield Fairgrounds, Marshfield, Massachusetts
• Headliners: Alanis Morissette, Caamp.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Daniel Donato’s Cosmic County.
• Tickets: Priced from $159 to $599.

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Newport Folk Festival

Overview

This iconic festival is renowned for its history and attracts a loyal fan base ready for surprising collaborations and a diverse lineup.

• When: July 24-26
• Where: Fort Adams State Park, Newport, Rhode Island
• Headliners: Cat Power, Brandi Carlile, Lauryn Hill.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Strongboi, Wednesday.
• Tickets: Ranging from $120 to $316.

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Lollapalooza

Overview

Known as one of the world’s largest music festivals, Lollapalooza draws a massive crowd every summer to Chicago. Expect a diverse lineup spanning various genres.

• When: July 30-August 2
• Where: Grant Park, Chicago
• Headliners: Lorde, Smashing Pumpkins.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Kim Theory, Snacktime.
• Tickets: Prices range from $185 to $29,000.

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Pickathon

Overview

Set in a picturesque farm environment, Pickathon prioritizes rising artists while providing a unique and immersive experience in nature.

• When: July 30-August 2
• Where: Pendarvis Farm, Happy Valley, Oregon
• Headliners: Built to Spill, Shakey Graves.
• Don’t Miss: Hannah Frances, Quasi.
• Tickets: Priced from $152 to $1,840.

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Newport Jazz Festival

Overview

Now in its 72nd year, Newport Jazz Festival not only presents jazz but also genre-blending artists in a stunning waterfront setting.

• When: July 31-August 2
• Where: Fort Adams State Park, Newport, Rhode Island
• Headliners: Herbie Hancock, Kamasi Washington.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Flea and the Honora Band, Chicago Underground Duo.
• Tickets: Available from $119 to $316.

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Outside Lands

Overview

San Francisco’s Outside Lands is known for its eclectic lineup and picturesque surroundings in Golden Gate Park.

• When: August 7-9
• Where: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
• Headliners: Charlie xcx, Death Cab for Cutie.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Billie Marten, Automatic.
• Tickets: Price range is $269 to $5,299.

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Grand Point North

Overview

Set against a stunning lakeside backdrop, Grand Point North showcases national talent along with local artists in Vermont.

• When: September 18-20
• Where: Waterfront Park, Burlington, Vermont
• Headliners: To Be Announced.
• Tickets: Prices to be announced.

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Shaky Knees Festival

Overview

Returning to Piedmont Park in Atlanta, Shaky Knees features indie rock and popular artists alike in a beautiful outdoor setting.

• When: September 18-20
• Where: Piedmont Park, Atlanta
• Headliners: Gorillaz, Wu-Tang Clan.
• Don’t Miss: Violet Grohl, Santigold.
• Tickets: Available from $175 to $7,999.

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Sea.Hear.Now Festival

Overview

Focusing on sustainability and engaging with ocean culture, Sea.Hear.Now in Asbury Park is a unique beachside festival.

• When: September 19-20
• Where: Asbury Park, New Jersey
• Headliners: Mumford & Sons, The Offspring.
• Don’t Miss: The War on Drugs, Kim Gordon.
• Tickets: Priced from $180 to $11,500.

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Bourbon and Beyond

Overview

This multi-genre festival celebrates Americana, blues, and country music while also featuring a focus on bourbon culture.

• When: September 24-27
• Where: Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Kentucky
• Headliners: Foo Fighters, Kacey Musgraves.
• Under-the-Radar Acts: Palmyra, S.G. Goodman.
• Tickets: Ranging from $197 to $2,360.

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Oceans Calling Festival

Overview

Finally, Oceans Calling caps off the summer on the Boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland, with a nostalgic lineup featuring artists from the ‘90s and beyond.

• When: September 25-27
• Where: Ocean City, Maryland
• Headliners: Dave Matthews Band, Hootie & the Blowfish.
• Don’t Miss: My Morning Jacket, Everlast.
• Tickets: Prices from $179 to $7,500.

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Country Calling Festival

Overview

Just as summer winds down, Country Calling brings together top country acts for a two-day festive experience on the Ocean City Boardwalk.

• When: October 2-3
• Where: Ocean City, Maryland
• Headliners: Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert.
• Don’t Miss: Brothers Osborne, Noeline Hoffman.
• Tickets: Ranging from $169 to $6,000.

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Austin City Limits

Overview

As the weather cools in October, Austin City Limits showcases a star-studded lineup at Zilker Park over not one but two weekends.

• When: October 2-4 and October 9-11
• Where: Zilker Park, Austin, Texas
• Headliners: Rüfüs Du Sol, Lorde, Charli xcx.
• Don’t Miss: Parcels, Houndmouth.
• Tickets: Ranged from $365 to $5,800.

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So there you have it—a comprehensive guide to an exciting year of music festivals! Whether you’re a fan of rock, hip-hop, EDM, or something more niche, there’s something for everyone on this lineup. Make sure to get your tickets early and prepare for unforgettable experiences!