A new year brings a new festival season. While most big music fests don't start until late spring, the truth is that festival season is basically a year round thing. When it comes to Florida music festivals, lineups are diverse with something for everyone and it doesn't matter if you live in South Beach or the Panhandle, festival organizers bring good times all over the state. With a handful of returning festivals and even some new ones, 2016 is sure to be an interesting year for festival goers around the state.
1. Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival
Where: Okeechobee, FL
When: March 4-6, 2016
Florida's newest (and arguably biggest) music festival, Okeechobee, is said to be the Florida version of Bonnaroo. The March festival will be hosting a number of big names such as Kendrick Lamar, Mumford & Sons, and Robert Plant. Along with the music, festival goers will be able to camp out, participate in yoga, enjoy art, relax on Aquachobee beach, and enjoy cuisine from the state's best food trucks and vendors.
2. Suwannee Hulaween
Where: Live Oak, FL
When: TBA
This North Florida festival is like a giant Halloween party that encompasses the spirit of old Florida. Set on Halloween weekend, last year's festival featured acts such as Primus, Chance the Rapper, and Odesza. The festival focuses on staying green and hosts a number of spiritual activities such as Kirtan Musical Meditation, Circle Songs, and Edible & Medicinal Plant Walks. While a 2016 lineup hasn't been announced yet, dates have been confirmed and we can expect to see this festival again in October.
3. Moonstone Music Festival
Where: Orlando, FL
When: April 30-May 1, 2016
Rock fans, unite! This Orlando music festival is sure to keep crowds happy with a lineup featuring KISS, Kansas, The Flaming Lips, and other big names. Besides the music, Moonstone will feature comedy acts, sideshow performances, and an eclectic marketplace. As the date draws closer, more information will be announced but for now Orlando residents are excited to have a new festival in their backyard.
4. Country 500
Where: Daytona, FL
When: May 27-29, 2016
One of Florida's biggest country festivals, Country 500, features a number of musical acts including Florida Georgia Line, Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Kid Rock. The festival will take place at the historic Daytona International Speedway where festival goers will have the opportunity to camp out in the infield. The Memorial Day weekend festival will also feature carnival rides, arcade games, and artist meet & greets.
5. Ultra Music Festival
Where: Miami, FL
When: March 18-20, 2016
For years Ultra has proved to be on of the country's hottest music festivals. Nestled in the heart of downtown Miami, Ultra Music Festival is three days of non-stop EDM partying. With big names headliners like Avicii, Chet Faker, and Kaskade, the festival attracts EDM fans from around the world. Whether you're a spring-breaker, DJ, or just a music festival junkie, Ultra is three great days of peace, love, unity, and respect.
Photo Credits: orlandoweekly.com, thatdrop.com, musicfestivalwizard.com, daytonainternationalspeedway.com, puravidabracelets.com


























