Summertime in the midwest is one of my favorite times of the year. The snow is (finally) melted and temperatures are high, which means an influx in outdoor concerts and music festivals. Driving around the midwest to these festivals is worth it due to the awesome selection of artists that come out to perform.
Concerts are fun on their own, but when there are multiple artists at one show, a whole new genre of concerts is developed: the standard music festival. From Lollapalooza to Summerfest, here’s everything you need to know about some of the best music festivals in the midwest this summer.
1. Lollapalooza
Where: Grant Park, Chicago, IL
When: August 2-5
This four-day festival is packed with some of the most trendy musical artists like The Weeknd, Post Malone, Portugal. The Man and Arctic Monkeys. But they also have artists like Sir Sly, Dermot Kennedy, and Catfish and the Bottlemen. It’s absolutely undeniable that the festival will be full of energy, music lovers and great music.
2. Summerfest
Where: American Family Insurance Amphitheater in Milwaukee, WI
When: June 27-July 1, July 3-8
Located in one of my favorite cities in the midwest, Summerfest is the longest music festival in time duration on this list. Stacked with artists like Halsey, Arcade Fire, The Weeknd (again) and Foster The People, this festival is one to keep on your radar. You can check out the entire line-up here.
3. Basilica Block Party
Where: Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis, MN
When: July 6-7
An energetic festival put on by Cities 97, each year has always features a unique and impressive lineup. If you’re only catching the beginning of Summerfest, make sure to head to Minneapolis for this Festival. Placed in a corner of Minneapolis that provides a stellar view of the skyline, this festival has been an annual event since 1995. Stacked with artists like BøRNS, Fitz and the Tantrums and Judah & The Lion, this festival will be filled with great live music. You can grab your tickets here.
4. Pitchfork Music Festival
Where: Union Park in Chicago, IL
When: July 20-22
An eclectic lineup consisting of artists like Tame Impala, Earl Sweatshirt and The War On Drugs makes this one of the best indie festivals in the Midwest this summer. Tickets and passes are available here.
5. WE Fest
Where: Soo Pass Ranch, Detroit Lakes MN
When: August 2-4
One of the most well-known country concerts in the midwest, the headliners are arguably the best they’ve been in recent years of the festival. Carrie Underwood, Florida Georgia Line, Jason Aldean and many more artists are making their way to northern Minnesota. This camping festival is recognized nationally, and you can get your tickets here.
