What a wonderful time of year it is: festival season! There is something for everyone this time of year, with festivals ranging from big to small, spread out throughout the country far and wide, even globally! Check out these festivals that can be local or can involve a fun vacation (because who doesn’t like to travel if they can?):
1. PICNIQ: June 18
Have a thing for Alternative rock but don’t want to miss any of the bands there? Then PICNIQ is for you. Located at Hollywood Casino Amphitheater in Tinley Park, Illinois, PICNIQ includes The Lumineers, Young the Giant, Garbage, and more! This is a one day festival (June 18) with the bands all playing at different times, but do not overlap each other. There are two stages and since they all play in a row, you won’t miss a thing. Check out all of the bands and the schedule here!
Beginning June 22 in Anchorage, Alaska, and ending on August 13 in Portland, Oregon, Van’s Warped Tour is sure to hit a city near you. Let the inner punk rock in you come out by seeing bands from Atreyu, Every Time I Die, Emarosa, Falling in Reverse, Whitechapel, and much more! Don’t fret if you aren’t the head banging type; there is still 3OH!3, We the Kings, Reel Big Fish, The Maine, Yellowcard and yes, Waka Flocka Flame. Click here to see all of the cities and dates and get your tickets today!
3. Electric Daisy Carnival, Las Vegas: June 17-19
Not only is this an electronic music festival, it is a whole experience. Electric Daisy Festival includes full-sized carnival rides, art installations, and hundreds of performers. Yes, hundreds. This is definitely for the adventurous type, and if that is you, you do not want to miss this! Visit their website here to view photos, videos, ticket information, and everything else you want to know!
4. Country Thunder
Spanning from Alberta, Arizona and Wisconsin, Country Thunder has been one of the top Country Music Festivals and includes camping, too! Check it out here to see their full line ups, dates, and camping information along with information about Craven Country Jamboree, the “World’s Greatest Country Music Festival” in Canada!
5. Summerfest: June 29-July 10
Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Summerfest is the world’s largest music festival. There is definitely something for everyone in this festival alone; it is not one to miss! Genres span from classic rock, alternative, hip hop, country, and you name it. Not to mention, tickets are not too expensive. Be sure to find one of your favorites for the official line up and schedule here!
6. Chicago Open Air: July 15-17
New to Chicago this year, this festival includes #GourmetManFood, craft beer, and all your favorite metal bands. Located in Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois, you’re sure to blow an ear drum but have a kick ass time listening to bands like Slipknot, Five Finger Death Punch, Miss May I, Chevelle, The Devil Wears Prada and so much more. Check it out now!
7. Electric Forest: June 23-26
Another festival with camping involved, Electric Forest is in Rothbury, Michigan, and it is as scenic as it sounds. Headliners include Bassnectar, Beats Antique, Porter Robinson and Bonobo. Visit the website to view pictures, get the whole line up, and try and snag some tickets!
8. Lollapalooza: July 28-July 31
Lollapalooza is a festival which also incorporates a wide span of genres. Bands, DJs, great food, great location: what more can you ask for? Located in Grant Park in Chicago, Illinois, the festival is now four days instead of the usual three since it is celebrating their 25 year anniversary. Check out the full line up and remaining tickets here!
Now, there are many, many more festivals than just this small handful. I highly encourage everyone to check out a full list here for the US, but also note this website has links to view lists of festivals in the UK, Australia, Europe, South/Central America, and Canada!
I promise going to at least one will make your summer a memorable one.
Happy Festing!





















