6 Summer Festivals You Can’t Miss

One quick scroll through your Instagram feed and you’ll find that the warm weather means one thing: everyyyyone’s flocking to the summer festivals. If the idea of spending sunny days with great music and your besties sounds irresistible, there’s only one thing left to do: join the fun.

Pack your comfiest clothes—and maybe some camping gear—and head to one of these fantastic festivals this summer.

• Bonnaroo: Manchester, TN

  Can’t choose just one music genre? Then don’t! Instead, head to Bonnaroo, which encompasses them all: rock, hip-hop, EDM, and more.

  Bonnaroo is famous for its eclectic lineup. But more than that, it’s famous for creating a sense of community with its popular on-site camping facilities. This festival also offers unique wellness opportunities, including yoga sessions and—if you’re feeling inspired—a 5k run.

  Another Bonnaroo highlight is its proximity to Nashville, the heart of country music. Check out other musical attractions such as the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and live performances at local venues.

• Burning Man: Black Rock Desert, NV

  Ever wondered where Burning Man gets its name? It’s not from the desert heat (although it can be sweltering out there!); the festival ends each year with the burning of a large wooden structure known as “The Man.”

  But Burning Man is more than an effigy-burning festival. It’s an internationally recognized experiment in community and art.

  “Burners” bring their own supplies, including water and food, and turn the harsh desert space into Black Rock City, a carefully planned site with roads, camps, and themed villages.

  Burning Man encourages participation over spectating. Anyone can contribute through art, performances, workshops, or simply by helping fellow participants with their projects.

• Coachella: Indio/Palm Springs, CA

  Ready to rub elbows with celebrities, rock stars, and influencers? Of all the summer festivals on our list, Coachella is the “see and be seen” hot spot!

  Coachella is mostly known for its diverse lineup, featuring both major headliners and up-and-coming artists across diverse genres. But you’ll find other art forms, too. Installations such as sculptures enhance your overall experience.

  The festival takes place in the gorgeous desert landscape of Indio, part of the super-glam Palm Springs area. While you’re in town, check out golf courses, hit the trendy shops and restaurants, and splurge on a post-festival massage at one of the lux local spas.

• Lollapalooza: Chicago, IL

  For true music followers, Lollapalooza is one of the most iconic music festivals.

  Originally conceived as a farewell tour for Jane’s Addiction in 1991, the musical event quickly evolved into a groundbreaking multi-city festival tour. Throughout the early 1990s, it played a huge role in bringing alternative music to new fans.

  No longer a tour, Lollapalooza was revived in 2005 as a single-location festival based in Chicago.

  Make the most of your trip to the Windy City with visits to local landmarks such as the Art Institute of Chicago, the Navy Pier, and Wrigley Field—it is baseball season, after all!

• New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival: New Orleans, LA

  The rich history of New Orleans is closely tied to its musical roots.

  Jazz Fest celebrates the city’s distinctively diverse sounds, featuring jazz, blues, gospel, and local genres such as zydeco and Cajun… sometimes all in the same performance!

  The festival also features the city’s legendary cuisine and cultural traditions, highlighting their unique Creole flair. Indulge your foodie side at local food booths that offer an array of NoLa delicacies, from crawfish étouffée and jambalaya to beignets and pralines.

  It’s not just a festival, it’s a full immersion into the cultural heart of New Orleans.

• South by Southwest: Austin, TX

  Most summer festivals focus heavily on music, but not this one!

  South by Southwest (SXSW) stands at the crossroads of the film, music, and interactive entertainment industries. And with its heavy focus on emerging talent, SXSW is the perfect place to find your next favorite performer!

  SXSW takes place in vibrant, energetic Austin, the “Live Music Capital of the World.” In addition to the festival, you can take in shows by amazing local artists.

  And because all that toe-tapping is sure to work up an appetite, we’ve got good news for you guys. Austin also boasts an impressive foodie scene, especially for local specialties such as BBQ and Tex-Mex.

Looking for something different for your next vacation? These 5 summer festivals combine art, sunshine, and community in a glorious celebration of expression.

And to truly make the most of your summer festival experience, ship your festival gear to your final destination with LugLess. Skip the lines at bag check and breeze by baggage claim, luggage-free and hassle-free. And save your energy for what really matters: an immersive, transformative festival experience.