2023 Music Festivals to Go to
Are you ready for the ultimate music experience in 2023? Get ready to discover the hottest festivals around the world, featuring big names, emerging talent, and local scenes. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or attending your first event, this guide will help you navigate the exciting and ever-changing music festival landscape
Key takeaways:
- Music festivals in 2023 offer a range of options for music lovers.
- Tips for attending include research, packing smart, staying hydrated, and taking breaks.
- Attending a music festival is about embracing the experience and creating unforgettable memories.
Have you ever found yourself in a state of awe, surrounded by a sea of people dancing and singing to the beat of their favorite music? Or maybe you’ve never experienced the exhilarating rush of attending a music festival? Either way, one thing is for sure: music festivals are the perfect place to lose yourself in the magic of live music, surrounded by like-minded people who are just as passionate as you are.
But with so many music festivals happening all over the world, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to attend. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best music festivals to attend in 2023. From major festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury, to up-and-coming festivals like Primavera Sound and Sónar, and regional festivals like SXSW and Lollapalooza, we’ve got you covered.
Overview of Music Festivals in 2023
2023 is set to be an incredible year for music festivals all around the world, with a diverse range of events catering to different tastes and styles. From major festivals featuring some of the biggest names in the music industry to smaller, niche festivals that celebrate specific genres and cultures, there is something for everyone in 2023.
One of the most highly anticipated festivals of the year is Coachella, which will take place in California’s Coachella Valley over two weekends in April. This iconic festival is known for its diverse lineup of performers, which includes artists from a wide range of genres, such as rock, hip-hop, electronic, and pop. Some of the biggest names in music have performed at Coachella over the years, including Beyoncé, Radiohead, and Kendrick Lamar, making it a must-attend event for music fans around the world.
Another major festival that is sure to draw crowds in 2023 is Glastonbury, which takes place in Somerset, England, in late June. Known for its eclectic mix of performers, Glastonbury is the largest greenfield music and performing arts festival in the world. The festival has a long history of hosting legendary performances, with past headliners including David Bowie, Prince, and The Rolling Stones. With an emphasis on environmental sustainability and social responsibility, Glastonbury is not just a celebration of music, but also a platform for social change.
For those who are into electronic music, Tomorrowland is the festival to attend in 2023. Held in Boom, Belgium, in late July, Tomorrowland is one of the biggest electronic music festivals in the world. The festival attracts some of the biggest names in the industry, including David Guetta, Martin Garrix, and Armin van Buuren, and is known for its impressive stage designs and elaborate production. Tomorrowland is an immersive experience that transports attendees to a magical world of music and wonder.
But the music festival scene isn’t just about the big names and the major festivals. In 2023, there are also plenty of up-and-coming festivals that are worth checking out. Primavera Sound, for example, is a popular festival that takes place in Barcelona, Spain, in late May. Known for its eclectic lineup of indie and alternative bands, Primavera Sound is a celebration of creativity and diversity in music. With its stunning seaside location and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect festival for those who want to discover new music and soak up some Spanish sunshine.
Another festival that is gaining popularity in 2023 is Electric Zoo, which takes place in New York City over Labor Day weekend. The festival is dedicated to electronic dance music and features a lineup of some of the biggest names in the industry, as well as up-and-coming artists. With multiple stages and immersive production, Electric Zoo is a feast for the senses and a celebration of the power of music to bring people together.
And for those who prefer something a little closer to home, there are plenty of regional festivals happening all across the United States in 2023. South by Southwest (SXSW), for example, is a major music and media festival that takes place in Austin, Texas, in mid-March. The festival features a diverse lineup of performers, as well as a range of film screenings, panels, and talks. Lollapalooza is another popular festival that takes place in Chicago, Illinois, in late July, and features a lineup of rock, hip-hop, and electronic artists.
Major Music Festivals in 2023
As the world slowly returns to some semblance of normalcy after the COVID-19 pandemic, music festivals are making a comeback in a big way. 2023 is shaping up to be a year of epic music festivals, featuring some of the biggest names in the industry and a wide range of genres for all music lovers to enjoy.
One of the most highly anticipated festivals of the year is Coachella, held annually in Indio, California. This two-weekend event features a star-studded lineup of musicians, ranging from pop and hip-hop to electronic and alternative. Coachella is known for its immersive art installations, delicious food vendors, and the unique desert setting that creates a one-of-a-kind festival experience. This festival draws in crowds from around the world and is definitely one not to miss in 2023.
Another major festival to look out for is Glastonbury, held in Somerset, England. This iconic festival has been around since 1970 and has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Adele, Coldplay, and Beyoncé. Glastonbury is known for its eclectic lineup, featuring a diverse range of genres such as rock, electronic, and world music. In addition to the music, Glastonbury offers a range of activities and attractions, including circus acts, theatre performances, and healing fields, making it an unforgettable festival experience.
For those who love electronic dance music, Tomorrowland in Belgium is a must-attend festival. This massive festival attracts some of the biggest names in EDM and is known for its incredible stages, pyrotechnics, and light shows that create an immersive experience. Tomorrowland offers a wide range of genres within the electronic music scene, including techno, house, trance, and hardstyle.
If you’re looking for something a little closer to home, Lollapalooza is a great choice. Held in Chicago, Illinois, this festival has been around since 1991 and has grown to become one of the largest music festivals in the world. Lollapalooza features a diverse range of genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic, and always attracts a lineup of the biggest names in music. In addition to the music, Lollapalooza offers a range of food vendors and attractions, making it a great festival for all ages.
Lastly, Burning Man, held annually in Black Rock City, Nevada, is not your typical music festival. This unique festival is more of an art installation than anything else, with attendees building a temporary city in the middle of the desert and participating in a range of creative activities and experiences. Burning Man features a diverse range of art installations, performances, and workshops, with music being just one part of the overall experience.
Up-and-Coming Music Festivals in 2023
While the big-name festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury may be the first to come to mind, there are also plenty of up-and-coming music festivals that are making waves in the industry and are definitely worth checking out in 2023. Here are just a few of the festivals that are on the rise:
First up is Treefort Music Fest, held annually in Boise, Idaho. This festival has been gaining popularity in recent years thanks to its diverse lineup of indie, alternative, and electronic acts. In addition to the music, Treefort also offers a range of other activities, including film screenings, yoga sessions, and food and beer tastings. Treefort is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great festival for first-time attendees.
Another up-and-coming festival to look out for is Desert Daze, held in Lake Perris, California. This festival is all about celebrating the art of music and is known for its immersive experience that blurs the lines between music and art. Desert Daze features a lineup of experimental and psychedelic acts, as well as a range of art installations, film screenings, and wellness activities.
For those who love the great outdoors, Blue Ox Music Festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin is a must-attend festival. This festival is all about celebrating bluegrass and roots music, and features a lineup of some of the best acts in the industry. Blue Ox is also known for its camping options, with attendees able to set up camp in the beautiful Wisconsin countryside and enjoy a range of outdoor activities.
If you’re looking for a festival with a more intimate feel, Pickathon in Happy Valley, Oregon may be just what you’re looking for. This festival is all about community, with attendees coming together to enjoy a lineup of indie and folk acts in a beautiful outdoor setting. Pickathon also offers a range of other activities, including workshops, film screenings, and artisanal food and drink tastings.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a festival that is all about celebrating diversity, Afropunk Fest in Brooklyn, New York is a must-attend. This festival features a lineup of musicians from a range of different genres, all united by their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the music industry. Afropunk is also known for its fashion and art offerings, with attendees able to participate in a range of fashion shows and art installations.
Regional Music Festivals in 2023
While big-name music festivals tend to grab the headlines, there are also a plethora of regional music festivals that offer a unique experience and are definitely worth checking out in 2023. From the West Coast to the East Coast, here are some of the best regional music festivals to consider attending:
Starting off on the West Coast, we have the Sasquatch! Festival, held annually in George, Washington. This festival is known for its stunning backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge, making for a breathtaking setting to enjoy a lineup of indie, alternative, and electronic acts. Sasquatch! also offers a range of other activities, including film screenings, comedy shows, and food and drink tastings.
Moving down the coast to the Southwest, we have the Viva Phoenix Festival in Phoenix, Arizona. This festival celebrates the local music scene, featuring a lineup of artists from a range of genres, including rock, indie, and hip-hop. Viva Phoenix is also known for its street festival vibe, with attendees able to enjoy a range of food and drink vendors, art installations, and street performances.
In the Midwest, we have the Lollapalooza Festival, held annually in Chicago, Illinois. While this festival has become more mainstream in recent years, it still offers an impressive lineup of some of the biggest names in music across a range of genres. Lollapalooza also offers a range of other activities, including art installations, food and drink tastings, and wellness activities.
Moving to the East Coast, we have the Newport Folk Festival in Newport, Rhode Island. This festival has been around since the 1950s and is known for its celebration of folk and roots music. The festival features a lineup of both established and up-and-coming artists, as well as a range of other activities, including workshops, art installations, and food and drink tastings.
Finally, we have the Electric Zoo Festival, held annually in New York City. This festival is all about celebrating electronic music and features a lineup of some of the biggest names in the industry. Electric Zoo is known for its impressive stage production and immersive experience, with attendees able to enjoy a range of other activities, including art installations, food and drink tastings, and wellness activities.
Tips for Attending Music Festivals in 2023
Attending a music festival can be an incredible experience, but it can also be overwhelming and exhausting if you’re not properly prepared. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you make the most of your music festival experience in 2023:
- Plan ahead: Before heading to a music festival, do some research and make a plan for the artists you want to see, the stages you want to visit, and any other activities you want to participate in. This will help you make the most of your time and avoid missing out on your must-see acts.
- Dress comfortably: Music festivals typically involve a lot of walking and standing, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics, and don’t forget to bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Stay hydrated: With long hours in the sun and lots of dancing, it’s important to stay hydrated. Bring a refillable water bottle with you and make use of the water stations available at the festival.
- Pack light: While you may be tempted to bring everything but the kitchen sink, it’s important to pack light for a music festival. Consider bringing a small backpack with essentials such as sunscreen, a portable charger, and a water bottle. Be sure to check the festival’s website for any prohibited items.
- Pace yourself: With so much excitement and energy at a music festival, it can be easy to go all out on the first day and burn out quickly. Pace yourself and take breaks when needed, so you can enjoy the festival to its fullest.
- Be respectful: Remember that you’re sharing the festival with thousands of other people, so be respectful of those around you. Don’t push or shove your way through crowds, and be mindful of others’ personal space.
- Embrace the experience: Music festivals are all about having fun and creating unforgettable memories. Embrace the experience and don’t be afraid to try something new, whether it’s trying a new type of music or participating in a new activity.
As the music festival season approaches in 2023, there are countless events to choose from around the world. From major festivals featuring some of the biggest names in the industry, to up-and-coming events showcasing emerging talent, there is something for everyone.
Attending a music festival can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for the crowds, heat, and long hours on your feet. By following the tips outlined above, you can maximize your enjoyment and make the most of your festival experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or attending your first event, there’s nothing quite like the energy and excitement of a music festival. From discovering new artists to dancing the night away with friends, music festivals have a way of creating unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.
So, as you look forward to the 2023 music festival season, remember to do your research, pack smart, and embrace the experience. With so many incredible events to choose from, there’s no better time to start planning your festival adventure.
