The Biggest Music Festivals In The US

Prepare to groove through the Labor Day Weekend at Chicago’s Union Park, where the ARC Music Festival will occur at the end of August. This festival is a must-see for house and techno music lovers and features a fantastic lineup with top-notch performers. But the excitement doesn’t end when the sun sets! The ARC After Dark series is exclusively for festival-goers, and it offers a range of intimate after-parties across the city that showcase unique back-to-back sets and label takeovers. These events will take place over three nights at various locations, and they ensure that the music will keep going long after the main stages have closed. The festival is a perfect blend of musical bliss and cultural exploration, all in the historic home of the genre.

Read more about the ARC lineup.

The Barefoot Country Music Festival, hosted in Wildwood, New Jersey, is a four-day, family-friendly event that attracts over 40 country music’s finest, including big names and rising stars, to five unique stages along Wildwood’s picturesque beaches.

It merges today’s top country acts with regional and local talent, setting itself apart with its coastal scenery and ambiance, making it an appealing summer destination. The festival enhances attendees’ excitement by gradually revealing new artist lineups. It’s an unmissable event for country music enthusiasts seeking a beachside musical adventure.

Read more about the Barefoot Country Music Festival lineup.

Dive into the ultimate bass adventure at Bass Canyon! This three-day music fiesta at Washington State’s Gorge Amphitheatre is your ticket to a non-stop bass bonanza. Picture this: multiple Excision sets with no stage clashes—just pure bass vibes.

But it’s not just about the beats; it’s a whole experience. Camp under the stars, wake up to epic views, and soak in the immersive energy that Bass Canyon is known for. Fans can’t wait for it, and you shouldn’t either!

Save the date – August 16-18 – for the upcoming Bass Canyon festival. Tickets? Keep your eyes peeled a few months ahead. Prepare to dance, camp, and feel the bass like never before. Bass heads, this is your moment!

Read more about the Bass Canyon lineup.

Beyond Wonderland is an EDM festival organized by Insomniac Events, known for its immersive atmosphere, vibrant stages, and top-tier EDM artists. It’s part of a series of festivals by Insomniac featuring diverse electronic music genres. Attendees often wear whimsical costumes, contributing to the magical ambiance. For the latest information, check the official Insomniac Events website.

The Beyond Wonderland festival has occurred in different West Coast areas, like Southern California, Washington, and Northern California.

One specific aspect of the Beyond Wonderland festival is its elaborate stage designs, featuring intricate and visually stunning setups contributing to its immersive and magical atmosphere. Everything is inspired by the famous story “Alice in Wonderland.”

Read more about the lineups for Beyond Wonderland SoCal, Beyond Wonderland at The Gorge, and Beyond Wonderland Chicago.

The Boise Music Festival is an annual summer event held at Expo Idaho in Boise, Idaho. It features a diverse lineup of artists across genres like pop, rock, country, and hip-hop. The festival is family-friendly and includes performances from well-known acts, carnival rides, food vendors, and interactive exhibits. Offering various ticket options, including VIP packages, the festival provides significant economic benefits to the local community through tourism and business support and is known for its vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.

Read more about the Boise Music Festival lineup.

Since its inception in 2013, the Boston Calling Music Festival has established itself as a premier three-day, multi-stage event in Boston. Showcasing an eclectic mix of music and arts, the festival features performances across genres, including indie, pop rock, and even segments dedicated to comedy, film, and visual art. Originally hosted at City Hall Plaza, the festival moved to the Harvard Athletic Complex in Allston. Beyond music and performances, Boston Calling often includes food, drink, and other local vendors, integrating elements of the local community and culture.

Known for its diverse and extensive lineup, Boston Calling has consistently drawn crowds exceeding thousands of attendees, making it a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar.

Read more about the Boston Calling lineup.

Broccoli City Festival, held annually in Washington D.C., uniquely combines top-tier hip-hop, R&B, and soul performances with a commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice.

Beyond the music, the festival offers wellness workshops, panel discussions, and local green initiatives, creating an immersive experience that inspires attendees to foster a sustainable and equitable future.

Read more about the Broccoli City Festival lineup.

In February, Cali Vibes is a distinguished three-day festival set against the picturesque backdrop of Marina Green Park in Long Beach, CA.

The festival includes a diverse global music lineup encompassing Jamaican dancehall, reggae, and soca genres. This inclusive event is designed for all ages, and the venue welcomes attendees from noon onwards on all three days.

Cali Vibes stands at the forefront of modernity, embracing a cashless transaction system that accommodates credit card payments and a variety of contactless options, including Apple Pay, Android Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Wallet, and contactless cards. Beyond its commitment to seamless transactions, the festival takes pride in being accessible to all, extending a warm welcome to attendees with disabilities and actively pursuing improvements in accessibility services.

Read more about the Cali Vibes lineup.

The Cincinnati Music Festival, an annual three-day music event held in Cincinnati, Ohio, has evolved significantly since its inception in 1962 as the Ohio Valley Jazz Festival. Showcasing a diverse range of genres, the festival features performances from established stars and emerging artists.

It boasts a rich history with past acts like Aretha Franklin, Duke Ellington, and Whitney Houston, to name a few. Having been hosted at various locations over its nearly 60-year history, it takes place at Paycor Stadium on Cincinnati’s riverfront, drawing over 50,000 attendees annually and marking it as the largest festival in the United States by 2000.

Read more about the Cincinnati Music Festival lineup.

Countdown NYE is an annual electronic music festival by Insomniac that takes place on December 31st in San Bernardino, California.

This festival has a unique theme every year, but this year’s theme is extraterrestrial. The theme for 2024 is “Alien Invasion.” Tickets come in different tiers with perks like faster entry and unique viewing spots.

The festival features top electronic music artists, food and drink options, and themed entertainment. Safety is a priority, with strict rules against drugs and thorough security checks. Additionally, there are rules about what you can bring inside, like leaving your professional recording gear at home and not getting outside food or drinks.

Read more about the Countdown NYE lineup.

The Cruel World Music Festival celebrates alternative and new wave music, featuring legendary artists like The Smiths, Depeche Mode, and Blondie. This annual event offers a nostalgic journey through ’80s and ’90s sounds and introduces these tunes to new fans.

The festival grounds become a vibrant community with diverse food, art installations, and merchandise. This blend of past and present and the festival’s communal spirit make Cruel World a must-attend event for music enthusiasts.

Read more about the Cruel World Music Festival lineup.

Dancefestopia (DFT) is an electronic dance music (EDM) festival annually in the United States. The festival is known for its vibrant and energetic atmosphere and diverse lineup of famous EDM artists and performers. It takes place over multiple days and offers attendees an immersive experience with various stages, art installations, and interactive elements.

The festival has gained a reputation for bringing together a community of EDM enthusiasts who gather to celebrate their shared love for electronic music. Dancefestopia often showcases a mix of genres within the EDM spectrum, including but not limited to house, techno, dubstep, and trance. The event aims to provide a visually stunning and musically dynamic environment, creating a memorable experience for festival-goers.

Read more about the Dancefestipia lineup.

Every year, electronic music fans gather in Avondale, Arizona, for Decadence Arizona, a vibrant festival held on December 30th and 31st. This event features top EDM artists, dazzling visual displays, captivating art installations, delicious food, and VIP experiences.

Decadence Arizona is a significant highlight in the electronic music calendar, attracting fans worldwide. The 2023 edition, “The Sky Realm,” featured renowned acts like Black Tiger Sex Machine, Chris Lake, Illenium, and John Summit, delivering unforgettable performances.

Read more about the Decadence Arizona lineup.

Decadence Colorado, an annual electronic music festival in the heart of Denver, Colorado, is a premier event for seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the electronic music scene. Boasting a vibrant array of electronic music artists, interactive art displays, carnival-style amusements, and a delectable selection of food and drinks, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Renowned for its immersive atmosphere, state-of-the-art sound systems, and meticulously crafted stage setups, Decadence Colorado offers attendees a sensory journey like no other.

Read more about the Decadence Colorado lineup.

In trance festivals, Dreamstate, organized by Insomniac, reigns supreme. Known for its ethereal beats and timeless melodies, Dreamstate has been held globally, captivating audiences in the United States, Mexico, the UK, Australia, and Poland.

Dreamstate offers an enchanting experience with meticulously crafted stages, creating immersive audiovisual environments for trance exploration.

The festival has received acclaim for its layout, production, and overall vibe, making it a sought-after destination for trance enthusiasts.

Dreamstate ensures a comfortable experience with free water refill stations, diverse food options, and easy bar access.

Read more about the Dreamstate Festival lineup.

The Electric Daisy Carnival, or EDC, is a famous music festival that plays electronic dance music. It’s put together by Insomniac, which plans and promotes events.

You’ll experience various electronic music genres at EDC, cool stage setups, and fantastic art and tech. The festival features DJs, carnival themes, and vibrant 3D environments with LED lights.

EDC occurs in various locations worldwide, including Mexico, Orlando, Los Angeles, and more. Each event offers a unique lineup of artists, local cuisine, and carnival rides.

Read more about the EDC Orlando lineup and EDC Las Vegas lineup.

Electric Forest Music Festival was an annual event held in Rothbury, Michigan. It gained popularity for its unique venue in a wooded area (Sherwood Forest), creating an enchanting and immersive experience for attendees. The festival typically featured a diverse lineup of electronic, jam bands, and other genres of music.

The Electric Forest was known for its vibrant and interactive atmosphere, with elaborate light displays, art installations, and a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness. Multiple stages hosted various artists, and the festival attracted music enthusiasts across the United States.

Read more about the Electric Forest Festival lineup.

Escape Halloween is an annual music festival transcending reality on the eve of All Hallows’ Eve. Across multiple stages, renowned DJs conjure a supernatural symphony, ranging from pulsating techno to bone-chilling bass. Adorned in eerie costumes, attendees become part of the mystical ambiance, creating a kaleidoscope of fantastical outfits. Escape Halloween is not merely a music event; it’s a journey into the unknown, a celebration of the mysterious, and a communion of souls bound by the love for music. Join the legion of lost souls, unleash your inner specter, and immerse yourself in a haunting harmonic haven where the living and the dead dance together under the shadowy moonlight.

Read more about the Escape Halloween Festival lineup.

The Essence Music Festival, held over the Fourth of July weekend, is the largest celebration of African American culture and music in the U.S. Since its start in 1995 to honor Essence magazine‘s 25^th anniversary, it has featured top R&B, hip-hop, soul, and jazz artists, along with empowerment seminars and discussions on health, wellness, finance, and social justice.

What sets the Essence Festival apart is its unique focus on empowerment and community building within the African American community. Unlike many music festivals, it combines stellar musical performances with educational and inspirational seminars, offering attendees personal and professional development opportunities and creating a celebratory and transformative experience.

Read more about the Essence music festival lineup.

In February, the Gasparilla Music Festival, an annual celebration of diverse musical talent, is set to light up Tampa, Florida. Hosted at the scenic Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, this event promises a thrilling lineup that spans many music genres, including indie rock, soul, blues, hip-hop, electronic pop, and country.

The festival uniquely showcases local bands alongside major headliners, offering attendees a rich tapestry of musical experiences. Beyond the tunes, festival-goers can indulge in various regional cuisines, adding a flavorful twist to the experience. Furthermore, the Gasparilla Music Foundation uses the event to support music education, inviting attendees to contribute to a noteworthy cause while enjoying the festivities.

Read more about the Gasparilla Music Festival lineup.

The Gem and Jam Festival, held annually in Tucson, Arizona, celebrates a live gam session and arts. Originally an afterparty for the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase, it has evolved into a full-scale festival featuring diverse music genres, including electronic, jam, and indie, alongside workshops, talks, and yoga sessions.

Beyond music, the festival offers a holistic experience with on-site camping, RV passes, glamping options, late-night music, daytime workshops, a food and drink bazaar, and continuous art and music entertainment. It’s a unique opportunity to dive into Tucson’s eclectic music and arts scene, catering to various interests and providing something for everyone.

Read more about the Gem and Jam Festival lineup.

Global Dance Festival is Colorado’s largest summer event, held on July 21st and 22nd in Denver. Featuring two headlining performances and sets from various artists, it’s a vibrant celebration of dance and music.

In addition to the festival, don’t miss the Global Dance Open – an international dance competition offering a chance to be part of a unique global dance experience.

The festival and competition aim to showcase the best in dance and music, create a welcoming space for a diverse audience, and foster community among participants. Join us for a weekend of rhythm and beats, celebrating the arts at the Global Dance Festival!

Read more about the Global Dance Festival lineup.

The Groove Cruise Festival is a unique experience among US music festivals due to its unique blend of music and travel. Unlike traditional land-based festivals, Groove Cruise transforms a luxury cruise ship into a floating dance party, offering attendees an unparalleled experience. Over several days, guests sail to exotic destinations while enjoying non-stop performances from top-tier DJs and electronic music artists. The festival combines the thrill of live music with the luxury and adventure of a cruise, fostering a close-knit community vibe among party-goers.

Read more about the Groove Cruise Festival lineup.

HARD Summer Music Festival, taking place on August 2024 in Los Angeles, distinguishes itself with an eclectic lineup that fuses top-tier electronic music with crossover acts and underground talent. Featuring headliners like Disclosure, FISHER + Chris Lake, and REZZMAU5, the festival offers a diverse musical experience.

Its new location provides a spacious, immersive environment, making HARD Summer a unique and innovative event in the U.S. festival scene.

Read more about the HARD Summer Festival lineup.

The Hidden City Music Festival is Columbia’s premier EDM event, merging iconic EDM acts with emerging talents on a visually stunning, temple-inspired main stage.

It offers a unique experience with a culinary oasis that includes vegan options, exclusive merchandise, and an outstanding community spirit. Designed to be more than just a music festival, it invites attendees into a world of discovery and wonder. It uniquely celebrates electronic music, art, and culinary delights.

Read more about the Hidden City Music Festival lineup.

Prepare to be dazzled by the rocking beats and pulsating rhythms of the annual HiJinx Music Festival! The HiJinx is held in Philadelphia in late December. This two-day music sensation boasts a lineup featuring electronic and dubstep icons like Skrillex, Porter Robinson, RL Grime, and Zomboy.

At this relatively young music festival, you can enjoy local delicacies and beverages with the convenience of a cashless payment system.

Remember, it’s an 18+ event with a strict policy for NO RE-ENTRY, so come ready to dedicate yourself fully to the experience HiJinx offers during those two days!

Read more about the HiJinx Music Festival lineup.

Get ready to rock at the Hinterland Music Festival, the highlight of Iowa’s music scene. Its thrilling lineup and eclectic mix of experiences make it a must-see.

The Hinterland Music Festival is well-liked because it has a friendly atmosphere, not too many people, and food and drinks that are not too expensive. It is considered a more friendly and cheaper option than big festivals like Lollapalooza, with a closer and more family-friendly feeling. The festival is easy to get to, located about 31 miles south of Des Moines on Interstate Highway 35, making it accessible for people nearby and from farther away.

Read more about the Hinterland Music Festival lineup.

The Life is Beautiful Music & Art Festival, held annually in Downtown Las Vegas, is a three-day extravaganza blending music, art, and culinary delights. Founded by Rehan Choudhry in 2013, it has evolved into one of the world’s highest-grossing festivals, boasting a diverse musical lineup and immersive art experiences. In 2022, Penske Media Corporation took control, ushering in a new era for the festival.

What sets Life is Beautiful apart is its central location in vibrant Las Vegas, providing a unique experience where festival-goers step out of the gates into a city that thrives all night. Beyond the beats and visual treats, the festival offers a culinary journey with world-class cuisine. Life is Beautiful isn’t just a festival; it’s a transformative, immersive escape, inviting everyone to embrace the present moment, celebrate diversity, and find beauty in the world around them.

Read more about the Life is Beautiful Festival lineup.

Lights All Night is the premier EDM festival held annually in Dallas, Texas, over New Year’s Eve weekend. With a diverse lineup of electronic dance music artists across genres like house, techno, trance, and bass, it’s a must-attend event for music lovers.

Held at the conveniently located Dallas Market Hall, the festival offers easy access for both locals and travelers. Attendees can choose from various ticket options, including General Admission, General Admission Plus, VIP Admission, and ULTRA VIP Admission, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

In addition to top-notch music, Lights All Night features merchandise stalls, locker rentals, and food vendors, enhancing the overall experience. The festival is the country’s longest-running independent and Texas’ longest-running electronic music festival.

Lights All Night is committed to inclusivity, providing an accessible experience for all fans, including those with disabilities.

Read more about the Lights All Night Festival lineup.

The Lost Lands Music Festival, presented by Excision, is an annual event at Legend Valley in Thornville, Ohio. Since 2017, it has attracted global music fans with powerful drum and bass, trap, and dubstep.

Legend Valley transforms into a bass music utopia with Excision’s thunderous drops and a prehistoric stage design. The lineup features stars like Excision, Zeds Dead, and Flux Pavilion.

Beyond the music, festivalgoers can enjoy activities like basketball, dodgeball, and volleyball and an amusement park with a Ferris wheel. Local vendors, food stands, and art installations enhance the vibrant atmosphere.

Read more about the Lost Lands Festival lineup.

The Lovers & Friends Music Festival is a popular annual event in Las Vegas, featuring a nostalgic lineup of R&B, hip-hop, and rap artists from the late 1990s and early 2000s alongside current stars. Organized by Live Nation, Snoop Dogg, and Bobby Dee, the festival typically occurs in May and offers a mix of music, food, drinks, and VIP experiences. Despite initial delays due to the pandemic, it launched successfully in 2022 and is known for its star-studded performances and high-demand tickets, making early planning essential for attendees.
In 2024, the Lovers and Friends festival was canceled.

Read more about the Lovers and Friends Music Festival lineup.

The Ocean City Music Festival, through its Country Calling Festival, offers an unparalleled blend of live country music and beachside leisure. With performances by top artists like Eric Church, Lainey Wilson, and Tyler Childers across three stages, the festival goes beyond the music to provide a complete beach experience. Attendees can enjoy the ocean’s scenic backdrop, indulge in various food options from the boardwalk, and find entertainment in classic amusement park rides. It is designed to cater to a broad audience with flexible ticketing options, making it a distinctive and memorable event for music fans and beach lovers.

Read more about the Ocean Calling Festival lineup.

The Outlaw Music Festival, founded by Willie Nelson in 2016, is an annual touring music festival in the United States, known for its eclectic mix of country, rock, and folk artists. Headlined by Nelson & Family, the festival features a rotating lineup of prominent musicians like Sturgill Simpson and The Avett Brothers. It offers more than just music; local cuisine, craft beer, and artisan vendors contribute to a family-friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. Held during the summer, the festival tours various U.S. cities, providing unique lineups at each stop and celebrating music in a laid-back, inclusive environment.

Read more about the Outlaw lineup.

The Phish Music Festival is a series of immersive, multi-day events organized by the rock band Phish, starting with “The Clifford Ball” in 1996. Known for their unique blend of music, art, and community, these festivals feature multiple sets by Phish, large-scale interactive art installations, and extensive camping areas, often in remote locations across the United States. Notable festivals include “The Great Went,” “Big Cypress,” “IT,” and “Super Ball IX.” These events create a vibrant temporary community of fans, known as “Phishheads,” and often incorporate themed elements, family-friendly activities, and sustainability efforts, offering a comprehensive and memorable experience.

Read more about the Phish lineup.

Since 2019, the Railbird Festival has been a favorite event for music fans, bourbon lovers, and anyone seeking a unique festival experience in Kentucky. The Festival takes place at Red Mile Gaming & Racing in Lexington every year and lasts two days.

The Festival is recognized for its celebration of bourbon and excellent choice of music performers.

Read more about the Railbird Festival lineup.

Rock the South is an annual music festival in Cullman, Alabama, launched in 2012 to support community recovery after devastating tornadoes. Held at York Farms, it features top country and rock artists like Luke Bryan and Lynyrd Skynyrd. The festival, typically in late spring or early summer, attracts tens of thousands of fans and offers various ticket options, including VIP and camping. Besides entertainment, it significantly impacts the local economy and raises millions for charity. It is known for its family-friendly, festive atmosphere that celebrates music and community spirit.

Read more about the Rock the South Festival lineup.

Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival, or just Tortuga, is one of the most fun beach music festivals in the US. The festival takes place over three days yearly on the beautiful sandy Fort Lauderdale Beach in Florida.

The Festival is recognized for its excellent choice of artists from country, rock, and root music.

Through local partnerships with the Rock The Ocean Foundation and Conservation Village, Tortuga Music Festival supports marine conservation initiatives.

Read more about the Tortuga lineup.

Miami’s iconic Ultra Music Festival (UMF) returns for its 25th year from March 22 to 24 at Bayfront Park. Founded in 1999, UMF has grown into a global electronic music phenomenon, drawing over 70,000 attendees annually.

Featuring top-tier artists like Calvin Harris and Martin Garrix, UMF has faced challenges but remains a key player in the music scene. Don’t miss the chance to experience the electrifying beats in the heart of Miami. Secure your spot for this unforgettable music celebration!

Observing the community of music festival lovers in the United States, we can conclude that Ultra Ultra Music Festival, AKA Ultra Miami, is one of their favorite electronic music festivals in the USA.