Best 10 Music Festivals in the USA 2023 . Venture out of the country and you'll find Coachella, Glastonbury, Burning Man, and Roskilde Festival--and that's just to name a few. But as awesome as those music festivals are, we're smack dab in the middle of America and there are some pretty killer festivals right at our doorstep.
Today's trendy festival list is dominated by a few select locations: the Pacific Northwest (Eugene Music Festival), Texas (Austin City Limits), Illinois (Riot Fest), and Tennessee (Bonnaroo). However, if you're looking for an alternative--or if these events have passed their prime--read on to learn about ten of America's best music festivals.
1. Hangout Music Festival - Gulf Shores, AL - 3-6 May 2023
In its four years of existence, Hangout has become an Alabama tradition. The combination of a wild beach setting, awesome tunes, and stellar people make for a great weekend of fun. And lucky for us, it's only two hours down the road from downtown Atlanta! The lineup will feature Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Jack Johnson as headliners this year.
2. Lollapalooza - Chicago, IL - 4-5 August 2023
The only thing better than a summer rock festival is the girls. As one of the biggest festivals in the US, Lollapalooza is sure to have some amazing women on its stages this year. Katy Perry, The Black Keys, and Florence, and the Machine--all great acts--are headlining 2012's festivities. This year also marks the first time that women will serve as headliners: Lorde, Janelle Monae, and The Breeders.
3. Sasquatch! Festival - Washington - May 25-28, 2023
You might not have heard of Sasquatch, but you've heard of the bands that play there: this year's lineup features Vampire Weekend, Justice, and MGMT. The annual festival is held at The Gorge Amphitheater (outdoors in Washington state), a 25,000-capacity venue that's considered to be one of the best places for live music in North America. For those who are interested in experiencing one of Sasquatch's signature "nature" experiences--you know, when you "go behind the trees"--it is important to note that camping at the event is completely sold out. However, all of the action occurs on a single stage, so you won't have to camp out to get a good spot!
4. ACL Music Festival - Austin, TX - 15-17 October 2023
This Texas summer staple is a great way to spend your October weekend. Grab a ticket and catch acts like Neil Young and Crazy Horse, Jack White, and Elton John. Other highlights include The Shins--who released an album this year--and Kendrick Lamar. Where else can you see icons of rock 'n' roll like the Stone Temple Pilots and The Replacements on the same bill? Plus, Austin is one helluva town--there's no shortage of things to do outside of ACL Fest.
5. Stagecoach - Indio, CA - April 30-May 1, 2023
If you've traveled to the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California over the past few years, chances are you've heard of Stagecoach. The co-presenters of this music festival are acts like The Eagles and The Ten Years After--not exactly your typical country fare. This year's headliners are Jason Aldean, Willie Nelson, and Neil Young. However, just because these bands aren't bluegrass doesn't mean that they can't have a helluva time at Stagecoach. In fact, this festival boasts one of the best party atmospheres in the country.
6. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival - New Orleans, LA - 8-10 May 2023
The Jazz Fest is one of America's oldest and most prestigious summer events. Hosted each year in May on the Bank of America stage, this festival features some of the best music North America has to offer: throwback classics like Earth Wind and Fire, and newcomers like Dave Matthews Band. Best of all, this festival is a celebration of everything in New Orleans: food, jazz, and music. Come celebrate good times with us!
7. Governors Ball Music Festival - NYC - June 4-6, 2023
In the past few years, the Governors Ball has been expanding its reach beyond New York City. For this year's festival, major acts such as Outkast and Nine Inch Nails will be performing at Randall's Island Park in New York City. But don't worry--the venue isn't too far outside of Gotham. The lineup also features acts like The Weeknd, Ed Sheeran, and Portugal. The Man. If you've ever wanted to attend an event in one of America's greatest cities, the Governors Ball is for you!
8. Firefly Music Festival - Dover, DE - June 20-23, 2023
If you're tired of the same old music festival scene, try something new and exciting. This year's Firefly Music Festival is taking place at The Woodlands in Delaware, and it's boasting one of the most impressive lineups in the nation. Expect to see performers like The Killers, Alabama Shakes, and Jack White--and that's just for starters! With a little bit of luck, you'll be partying with some of your favorite musicians by the end of this weekend.
9. Bonnaroo - Manchester, TN - 16-19 June 2023
For years, Bonnaroo has been one of America's best music festivals. This year's lineup includes artists like The Black Keys, The Arctic Monkeys, and Red Hot Chili Peppers--all of which are headlining the event. In other words, you've got one helluva weekend ahead of you! If you're looking for something to do while you're in Tennessee, check out the legendary Jack Daniels Distillery--home of the finest liquors in the world.
10. Summerfest - Milwaukee, WI - 29 July- 1 August 2023
Summerfest has been entertaining crowds for over 40 years. In 2013, the festival celebrated its 44th year of rock 'n' roll (and more). Attendees can expect to see legends like Willie Nelson and The Foo Fighters--not exactly your average country music crowd! But don't let that scare you: in addition to hosting some of the world's biggest musicians, Summerfest also hosts some of Wisconsin's best food vendors. You'll have to check it out to believe it.