If you love music, there’s no doubt that you’ve heard of some of the best music festivals worldwide. From the mystical and whimsical Tomorrowland in Belgium to the muddy Glastonbury in the UK, the options are almost countless. With such a variety of festivals to choose from, it can be tough to decide which ones to prioritize. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best music festivals around the world that every music lover needs on their bucket list.
1. Coachella
Coachella is one of the most famous music festivals in the world, and for a good reason. The festival hosts some of the hottest names in music across various genres over two weekends in the sunny Californian desert. From hip-hop to indie rock, there’s something for every ear. And if the music isn’t enough to convince you, the festival is known for its sensational art installations and delicious food.
2. Glastonbury
If you’re a fan of rock music, Glastonbury is the festival for you. Held in Somerset, England, Glastonbury is one of the largest and most iconic festivals in the world. It may be known for its wet and muddy conditions, but that doesn’t stop the thousands of music fans from flocking to its grounds every year. This year, the festival will take place June 21–25, and feature acts like Guns N’Roses, Elton John, and Arctic Monkeys.
3. Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland is one of the biggest electronic music festivals in the world. Held in Boom, Belgium, every July, the festival is known for its incredible stage design and production value, with over-the-top sets and light shows that are truly a sight to behold. This year’s lineup includes Alesso, John Newman, Lost Frequencies, and Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike. Tomorrowland is an absolute must-visit for any electronic music fan.
4. Rock in Rio
Rock in Rio is a huge music festival held every two years in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The festival attracts some of the most prominent names in music, with previous acts including Queen, Metallica, and Bruce Springsteen. But it’s not just about rock music — the festival also features pop, electronic, and hip-hop acts, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
5. Roskilde Festival
Denmark hosts one of Europe’s top music festivals every summer, focusing on rock and electronic music. Roskilde Festival has become known for its incredible atmosphere, friendly vibe, and commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing waste and carbon emissions. With acts like Lizzo, Lil Nas X, and Christine and the Queens scheduled for this year, this is bound to be one for the books.
6. Burning Man
Burning Man is different from your typical music festival. Held in the Nevada desert each August, Burning Man celebrates art, self-expression, and community. The festival is famous for its elaborate art installations, crazy costumes, and unique atmosphere. While music is a big part of Burning Man, it’s about so much more than that — community and spirituality play a significant role. If you’re looking for an experience entirely out of the ordinary, Burning Man is the festival for you.
7. Sziget Festival
Sziget Festival is Hungary’s biggest music festival, held on an island in the Danube River every August. With a focus on rock, electronic, and pop music, the festival has become known for its incredible atmosphere and international vibe. You can expect a diverse lineup of music, art installations, and cultural events. This year’s festival will feature headliners such as Billie Eilish, David Guetta, and Florence & The Machine.
8. Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza is a four-day festival that draws large crowds to Chicago, Illinois, USA, every summer. The festival features an impressive lineup of rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic acts. This year’s stellar headliners include Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lana Del Rey, and The 1975. Count us in!
9. Electric Daisy Carnival
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) is one of the top electronic dance music festivals in the world, attracting over 400,000 attendees each year. The festival comes to life in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, and features multiple stages, carnival rides, and art installations. The festival is known for its immersive experiences, with performers in elaborate costumes and interactive installations throughout the venue.
10. Primavera Sound
Hosted in Barcelona, Spain, Primavera Sound is considered one of Europe’s best festivals. It features a diverse lineup of indie, electronic, and rock acts; this year’s headliners include Depeche Mode, Rosalía, Skrillex, and Kendrick Lamar. The festival takes place in a waterfront location, allowing attendees to enjoy the beach during the day and the music at night.
Bonus #11 – Untold Festival
Let’s be real — we knew it would be hard to choose only ten festivals for our list. So we threw in one more for you! Held every summer in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, this four-day festival boasts an impressive lineup of internationally renowned artists and DJs, including David Guetta, Martin Garrix, and Armin van Buuren. With its breathtaking stages, state-of-the-art production, and non-stop partying, Untold Festival promises an unforgettable experience.
Get Ready
2023 is set to be a year full of vibrant and exhilarating music festivals around the world. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of rock, electronic, pop, or any other genre, there’s a festival out there for you. So, text your friends, grab your tickets, and get ready for a year of non-stop music and fun. We’ll see you in the crowd!
To read on the same subject:
- The Heat is On! The Hottest Festivals to Attend in the USA in 2023
- The 17 Best Festival Performances of All Time: Jimi Hendrix, Beyoncé & More
- Coachella 2023: Who Stole the Show?
- The Top 10 Greatest Coachella Performances of All Time
- Latin Music Takes Over Coachella 2023 with Bad Bunny Leading the Pack
- Editors’ Picks: Glastonbury 2023 Lineup feat. Elton John, Lizzo & Lana Del Rey
- Beyond the Headliners: Explore the Lesser-Known Acts at Glastonbury 2023
