The 59 best music festivals in the world (2024)
2023 was a very satisfying year for music and festival lovers around the world. After the pandemic, bands and fans were excited to reunite with each other. Our article “Best music festivals in Montreal, Canada” received great interest from you. Therefore, we decided to go outside Canada and give you detailed information about the best music festivals in the world in 2023 and 2024.
From Tomorrowland to Rock Im Park, in this article, you will find all the best and most visited festivals in the US, UK, Canada, Europe, South America, Africa and Asia. Let us look at the most visited music festivals in the world.
The best music festivals in the US
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
Coachella is one of the best music festivals in the world. It is renowned for its eclectic lineup, which spans various music genres, including rock, hip-hop, pop, and electronic music.
Beyond music, Coachella features impressive art installations, interactive experiences, and a celebrity-studded crowd. The festival’s fashion trends and overall atmosphere make it a cultural phenomenon.
Coachella’s success has led to the development of “Oldchella,” a more rock-focused festival called Desert Trip, and spin-off festivals such as “Chella”.
Coachella 2023 – Date: April 14 to 16, 2023, and from April 21 to 23, 2023
Coachella 2024 – Date: April 12-21, 2024
Coachella 2023 – Location: Indio, California
Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza is one of the largest music festivals in the US that’s been around for quite a while. It all started back in 1991, when Perry Farrell, the lead singer of the band Jane’s Addiction, came up with the idea. The first Lollapalooza happened in North America, and it was a traveling festival, meaning it took place in different cities across the United States.
Over the years, Lollapalooza has grown into a massive event that attracts music lovers from all over the world. The number of visitors can vary from year to year, but it’s not uncommon for hundreds of thousands of people to attend. Imagine a sea of music fans joining to enjoy their favorite bands and artists.
One of the cool things about Lollapalooza is that it’s not just about music. It also features things like art installations, food vendors, and even activities for kids in some editions. It’s like a big, colorful, and lively celebration of music and culture
Lollapalooza 2023 – Date: August 3-6, 2023
Lollapalooza 2024 – Date: January 27-28, 2024
Lollapalooza 2024 – Location: Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Race Course
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
Bonnaroo is known for its “Radiate Positivity” mantra and camping experience, fostering a strong sense of community among attendees.
The lineup spans various genres, with a focus on rock, indie, and jam bands, along with a significant presence of electronic and hip-hop acts. Art installations, a comedy tent, and workshops contribute to the festival’s unique atmosphere.
Bonnaroo takes place on a 700-acre farm and offers a range of camping options, from traditional to glamping.
Bonnaroo 2023 – Date: June 14-18, 2023
Bonnaroo 2024 – Date: June 15-18, 2024
Bonnaroo 2024 – Location: Manchester, Tennessee
Bonnaroo 2023 lineup:
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC)
EDC is one of the largest electronic dance music (EDM) festivals globally, with its flagship event in Las Vegas drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees. It is an unforgettable experience for festival lovers.
It features world-class DJs, stunning stage designs, and immersive art installations.
EDC has expanded to other cities, including Orlando, Mexico City, and more, making it accessible to EDM fans across the US and beyond.
Electric Daisy Carnival 2023 – Date: EDC will take place from 10 to 11 November 2023
Electric Daisy Carnival 2024 – Date: May 17-19, 2024
Electric Daisy Carnival 2024 – Location: Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Austin City Limits Music Festival
ACL Fest occurs in Austin’s Zilker Park and is known for its diverse music lineup, including rock, pop, hip-hop, and Americana acts.
The festival spans two weekends and showcases both established and emerging artists. In addition to music, ACL Fest offers Austin’s renowned food scene, an art market, and family-friendly activities.
ACL takes place on a 700-acre farm and offers a range of camping options, from traditional to glamping.
Austin City Limits Music Festival 2023 – Date: October 7-9 and October 14-16, 2023
Austin City Limits Music Festival 2023 – Location: Austin, Texas
Here are the artists you will see at the AUSTIN CITY LIMITS:
Outside Lands
Outside Lands is one of the best music festivals in the world and it has its own unique vibe. It didn’t start as far back as Lollapalooza; it kicked off in 2008. This festival takes place in San Francisco’s beautiful Golden Gate Park.
Like Lollapalooza, Outside Lands is all about music, but it’s not just limited to that. It’s a three-day event that brings together music lovers, foodies, and art enthusiasts. It’s kind of like a big picnic in the park but with some of the hottest musical acts performing on stage.
The lineup at Outside Lands is always impressive, featuring a wide range of artists from different genres. So, whether you’re into rock, hip-hop, indie, or electronic music, you’re likely to find something that gets you moving.
Outside Lands 2023 – Date: August 11-13, 2023
Outside Lands 2024 – Date: August 9-11, 2024
Outside Lands 2024 – Location: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
Outside Lands 2024 Lineup:
Firefly Music Festival made its debut in 2012. It’s known for its camping-friendly atmosphere and diverse music lineup. Attendance varies each year but often draws tens of thousands of music lovers.
Ticket prices can range from around $300 to $700 for a weekend pass, depending on the type of experience you want. The lineup typically features a mix of popular and emerging artists from various genres.
Firefly Music Festival 2023 – Date:Firefly Festival has been postponed until 2024
Firefly Music Festival 2023 – Location: Postponed
Firefly Music Festival 2024 – Location: Lush wooded landscapes on the east coast in Delaware
Firefly Music Festival 2023 Lineup:
Best music festivals in the UK
The United Kingdom hosts several famous and highly visited music festivals that draw attendees from around the world.
Here are the most visited music festivals in the UK:
Glastonbury Festival
Glastonbury is arguably the most famous and iconic music festival in the UK and one of the best festivals in the world. It’s known for its diverse lineup, with artists spanning various genres. It typically attracts well over 100,000 festival-goers.
Ticket prices vary depending on the year and the type of ticket (e.g., general admission or VIP). The lineup is always a closely guarded secret until it’s officially announced but often includes some of the biggest names in music.
Glastonbury 2023 – Date: June 21-25, 2023
Glastonbury 2023 – Location: It took place at Worthy Farm, Somerset.
Here are the artists you will see at Glastonbury:
Reading and Leeds Festivals 2023
These twin festivals began in the 1960s, with Reading in the south and Leeds in the north of England. Each festival draws around 100,000 people.
Weekend ticket prices are usually in the range of £200-£250. The lineups are traditionally rock-oriented, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary rock bands, as well as other genres.
Reading and Leeds Festivals 2023 – Date:
Reading and Leeds Festivals 2023 – Location: Reading and Leeds
Wireless Festival
Wireless Festival first took place in 2005. It’s known for its focus on hip-hop, rap, and electronic music. Attendance can reach tens of thousands.
Ticket prices vary but typically range from £60 to £200 for a weekend pass. The lineup often features top-notch acts from the world of urban and electronic music.
Wireless Festival 2023 – Date: July 7-6, 2023
Wireless Festival 2023 – Location: London
Isle of Wight Festival
The Isle of Wight Festival started in the late 1960s and has a rich history. It typically attracts around 50,000 attendees.
Ticket prices can vary but often range from £150 to £200 for a weekend ticket. The lineup features a mix of classic rock acts and contemporary artists.
The Isle of Wight Festival 2023 – Date: June 15-16, 2023
The Isle of Wight Festival 2023 – Location:
Creamfields
Creamfields is one of the UK’s premier electronic dance music (EDM) festivals. It features world-renowned DJs, stunning stage productions, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Creamfields has become a major destination for EDM fans both in the UK and internationally. Attendance can exceed 70,000. Ticket prices can range from £200 to £300 for a weekend pass.
Creamfields 2023 – Date: May 26-28, 2023
Creamfields 2023 – Location: Daresbury, Cheshire
Latitude Festival
Latitude Festival combines music, comedy, theater, and literary events in a family-friendly environment. It’s held at Henham Park in Suffolk.
The festival’s inclusive atmosphere makes it a unique experience. Attendance is typically around 40,000. Ticket prices vary but can range from £200 to £250 for a weekend pass.
Latitude Festival 2023 – Date: July 20-23, 2023
Latitude Festival 2023 – Location: Henham Park in Suffolk
Download Festival (2023-2024)
Download Festival is a rock and heavy metal festival held at Donington Park. It’s known for hosting some of the biggest names in the rock and metal genres.
The festival features multiple stages and a dedicated camping experience.
Download Festival 2023 – Date: June 8-11, 2023
Download Festival 2024 – Date: June 14-16, 2024
Download Festival 2023 – Location: Donington Park
Boomtown Fair
Boomtown Fair began in 2009 and has gained a reputation for its immersive and theatrical approach to music festivals. It is one of the largest festivals in the UK. Attendance is typically around 60,000.
Ticket prices can vary depending on the type of experience you want, but weekend passes generally range from £200 to £300. The lineup spans multiple genres, including punk, reggae, and electronic music.
Boomtown Fair – 2023 – Date: August 9-13, 2023
Boomtown Fair – 2023 – Location: Winchester
The best music festivals in Canada
Canada hosts several music festivals that have gained recognition for their diverse lineups and vibrant atmospheres.
Osheaga Music and Arts Festival
Osheaga is one of Canada’s premier music festivals, known for its eclectic lineup featuring a wide range of musical genres, including rock, indie, pop, and electronic.
It takes place at Parc Jean-Drapeau on Montreal’s Île Sainte-Hélène, providing a scenic backdrop for the performances.
Osheaga 2023 – Date:
Osheaga 2023 – Location: Montreal, Quebec
Montreal Jazz Festival
The Montreal Jazz Festival is the largest jazz festival in the world, attracting renowned jazz musicians from around the globe.
In addition to jazz, the festival also features blues, world music, and other genres, making it a diverse musical experience.
Montreal Jazz Festival2023 – Date:
Montreal Jazz Festival 2023 – Location: Montreal, Quebec
Canadian Music Week
Canadian Music Week is both a music festival and a music industry conference, making it a significant event for musicians, music professionals, and fans.
The festival features a wide variety of artists across different music genres.
Canadian Music Week2023 – Date:
Canadian Music Week 2023 – Location: Toronto, Ontario
Bestival Toronto
Bestival is a popular UK festival that expanded to Toronto, bringing a mix of music, art installations, and a creative atmosphere.
It features a diverse lineup and is known for its unique themes and costumes.
Bestival 2023 – Date:
Bestival 2023 – Location: Toronto, Ontario
Vancouver Folk Music Festival
This festival celebrates folk and world music, showcasing a mix of traditional and contemporary artists.
It’s held at Jericho Beach Park and offers a relaxed and family-friendly environment.
2023 – Date:
2023 – Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Shambhala Music Festival (Salmo, British Columbia)
Shambhala is a renowned electronic music and arts festival that takes place in the beautiful Kootenay Mountains.
It’s known for its dedicated and passionate community of electronic music enthusiasts.
Shambhala 2023 – Date:
Shambhala 2023 – Location:
RBC Bluesfest (Ottawa, Ontario)
Bluesfest is Canada’s largest blues music festival, but it also includes a diverse range of music genres, including rock, hip-hop, and pop.
It takes place on the grounds of the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.
2023 – Date:
2023 – Location:
MUTEK (Montreal, Quebec)
MUTEK is an international festival of electronic music and digital arts, focusing on cutting-edge electronic music and audiovisual performances.
2023 – Date:
2023 – Location:
The best music festivals in Europe
Europe is home to some of the world’s most famous and highly visited music festivals, offering diverse musical genres, cultural experiences, and stunning settings.
Tomorrowland
Maybe you won’t be able to see all the festivals in your lifetime, but there are some festivals that you should definitely make time for. One of them is Tomorrowland.
Tomorrowland is one of the world’s largest and most famous electronic dance music (EDM) festivals.
It’s known for its extravagant stage designs, top-tier DJs, and immersive themes, creating a unique experience for attendees.
First organized in 2005, Tomorrowland hosted ten thousand visitors. This number reached four hundred thousand visitors in 2018. This festival, where electro-music lovers feel like they are in a wonderland, is among the top 5 festivals in the world.
Tommorowland 2023 – Date:
Tommorowland 2023 – Location:
Tomorrowland 2015
Roskilde Festival (Roskilde, Denmark)
Roskilde is one of Europe’s largest and oldest music festivals, featuring a diverse lineup of artists from various genres.
The festival is known for its commitment to sustainability and its nonprofit status, with all profits going to charitable causes.
It provides a unique camping experience and a strong sense of community among attendees.
Sziget Festival (Budapest, Hungary)
Sziget, often referred to as the “Island of Freedom,” is a multicultural music and arts festival.
It takes place on Obuda Island in the heart of Budapest, offering a mix of music genres, visual arts, and cultural programs.
Sziget attracts a diverse international crowd and has a reputation for its vibrant atmosphere.
Primavera Sound (Barcelona, Spain)
Primavera Sound is a renowned music festival known for its cutting-edge and diverse lineup.
It features artists from various genres, including indie rock, electronic, and hip-hop.
The festival takes place in Barcelona and has a sister event in Porto, Portugal.
Rock am Ring / Rock Im Park (Germany)
After 888 days, rock music lovers’ dreams came true. After a three-year hiatus, fans of the Rock Am Ring festival had their much-anticipated 3 days of fun in 2023.
Rock am Ring was first held in 1985 and was originally planned as a one-off event. However, due to the great success with 75,000 spectators, it was decided to hold this event every year.
Rock am Ring and Rock Im Park are the largest festivals in Germany and two of the largest rock and metal festivals in Europe. What Tommorowland is to electro music lovers, Rock Am Ring is a wonderland to rock and metal lovers.
They take place simultaneously in different German cities and feature top rock and metal acts from around the world.
Electric Picnic (Stradbally, Ireland)
Electric Picnic is an eclectic music and arts festival held at Stradbally Hall in County Laois, Ireland.
It features a diverse lineup, including rock, indie, electronic, and folk music.
The festival is known for its creative and family-friendly atmosphere.
Exit Festival (Novi Sad, Serbia)
Exit Festival is a unique music festival held at Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad. It features a diverse lineup of artists, including rock, electronic, and hip-hop acts.
Exit is celebrated for its stunning venue overlooking the Danube River.
The best music festivals in South America
South America hosts a variety of vibrant and diverse music festivals that showcase the region’s rich musical heritage and international acts. Here are some of the best music festivals in South America, as of my last knowledge update in September 2021:
Rock in Rio (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
Rock in Rio is one of the largest music festivals in the world, featuring a diverse lineup of rock, pop, and other genres.
It takes place in Rio de Janeiro and has also expanded to Lisbon, Portugal.
Rock in Rio has hosted some of the biggest names in music and is known for its massive stages and impressive production.
Lollapalooza Argentina, Chile, and Brazil (Various Cities)
Lollapalooza, originally a US-based festival, has expanded to South America with events in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil.
These festivals offer a mix of rock, indie, pop, and electronic music and often feature top international and local artists.
Vive Latino (Mexico City, Mexico)
Vive Latino is one of Latin America’s premier rock and alternative music festivals.
It showcases a wide range of Latin American and international artists and bands.
The festival takes place in Mexico City and attracts music enthusiasts from across the region.
Festival Internacional de Jazz de Punta del Este (Punta del Este, Uruguay)
This jazz festival in Uruguay’s Punta del Este celebrates jazz music in a stunning coastal setting.
It features performances by acclaimed jazz musicians and bands from around the world.
Estéreo Picnic (Bogotá, Colombia)
Estéreo Picnic is one of Colombia’s leading music festivals, featuring a diverse lineup of international and local artists.
The festival covers a wide range of music genres, from rock and pop to electronic and hip-hop.
Mysteryland Chile (Santiago, Chile)
Mysteryland is a renowned electronic music festival with its roots in the Netherlands.
The Chilean edition of the festival takes place in Santiago and features top electronic music DJs and artists.
Personal Fest (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Personal Fest is an annual music festival in Buenos Aires that presents a mix of national and international artists.
It covers various music genres, making it appealing to a broad audience.
Festival de Verão Salvador (Salvador, Brazil)
Festival de Verão Salvador is a major Brazilian music festival that takes place on the beautiful coast of Salvador.
It offers a diverse lineup, including Brazilian music genres such as axé and samba, as well as international acts.
Festival Internacional del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano (Havana, Cuba)
While not a music festival in the traditional sense, this film festival in Havana often includes music-related events and performances, celebrating Latin American cinema and culture.
Festival del Huaso de Olmué (Olmué, Chile)
This festival celebrates Chilean folk music and culture, with a focus on traditional music styles and local artists.
The best music festivals in Africa
Africa is home to a growing and diverse music festival scene, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and cultures. While it may not be as widely recognized as some festivals in other parts of the world, Africa boasts several notable music festivals that draw visitors from across the globe.
Here are some of the most famous and most visited music festivals in Africa:
Afropunk Festival (Johannesburg, South Africa)
Afropunk is a global movement celebrating black alternative culture, and its festival in Johannesburg is a highlight.
It features a diverse lineup of artists representing various genres, including punk, rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.
Afropunk emphasizes inclusivity, creativity, and activism.
Lake of Stars Festival (Lake Malawi, Malawi)
Lake of Stars is a unique music festival that takes place on the shores of Lake Malawi, providing a stunning natural backdrop.
The festival celebrates African and international music, arts, and culture.
It’s known for its intimate atmosphere and strong community spirit.
Sauti za Busara (Zanzibar, Tanzania)
Sauti za Busara is an East African music festival held in the historic Stone Town of Zanzibar.
It showcases a wide range of African music genres, including traditional, modern, and fusion styles.
The festival promotes cultural exchange and supports African musicians.
Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival (Essaouira, Morocco)
This Moroccan festival celebrates the Gnaoua musical tradition, which blends African, Arab, and Berber influences.
It features performances by Gnaoua musicians as well as international world music acts.
The festival takes place in the coastal town of Essaouira.
Bushfire Festival (Malkerns Valley, Eswatini)
Bushfire is a vibrant music and arts festival held in the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland).
It features a diverse lineup of African and international artists, with a focus on world music, reggae, and traditional African sounds.
The festival is known for its commitment to social and environmental issues.
Cape Town International Jazz Festival (Cape Town, South Africa)
This jazz festival is one of the largest in Africa, attracting renowned jazz musicians from around the world.
It covers a wide spectrum of jazz styles, from traditional to contemporary, and also includes other music genres.
Felabration (Lagos, Nigeria)
Felabration is an annual music festival that celebrates the life and music of the legendary Nigerian musician Fela Kuti.
It features Afrobeat performances, art exhibitions, and discussions about Fela Kuti’s cultural and political legacy.
International Festival of the Sahara (Douz, Tunisia)
This unique festival celebrates the culture of the Tunisian Sahara, including music, dance, and desert traditions.
It offers a glimpse into the nomadic way of life and the rich heritage of the region.
The best music festivals in Asia
Asia boasts a diverse and growing music festival scene that reflects the region’s rich cultures and musical traditions. While some festivals may not be as globally recognized as those in other parts of the world, several events have gained fame and popularity both locally and internationally.
Here are some of the most famous and most visited music festivals in Asia:
Sunburn Festival (Goa, India)
Sunburn is one of Asia’s largest electronic dance music (EDM) festivals and has gained international recognition.
It features top DJs and electronic artists, along with impressive stage setups and visuals.
The festival is known for its energetic atmosphere and vibrant beachside location in Goa.
NH7 Weekender (Multiple Cities, India)
NH7 Weekender is a traveling music festival that takes place in various Indian cities.
It showcases a diverse lineup of Indian and international artists, spanning multiple music genres, including rock, indie, electronic, and hip-hop.
ZoukOut (Singapore)
ZoukOut is a renowned beachfront dance music festival held on Sentosa Island in Singapore.
It features top EDM acts and is known for its epic beach parties and elaborate stage designs.
Summer Sonic (Tokyo and Osaka, Japan)
Summer Sonic is one of Japan’s major music festivals, held simultaneously in Tokyo and Osaka.
It features a diverse lineup of rock, pop, and electronic artists, including both Japanese and international acts.
Fuji Rock Festival (Niigata Prefecture, Japan)
Fuji Rock is Japan’s largest outdoor music festival and is set against the stunning backdrop of Naeba Ski Resort.
It covers a wide range of music genres, including rock, indie, electronic, and world music.
The festival is known for its eco-friendly initiatives and camping options.
Ultra Korea (Seoul, South Korea)
Ultra Korea is part of the global Ultra Music Festival brand and is one of Asia’s premier electronic music events.
It features world-famous DJs and electronic artists, along with captivating stage production.
Official website: https://ultramusicfestival.com/
Clockenflap (Hong Kong)
Clockenflap is Hong Kong’s largest music and arts festival.
It offers a diverse lineup, including indie rock, electronic, and local Asian artists.
The festival also features art installations, film screenings, and family-friendly activities.
Storm Music Festival (Shanghai, China)
Storm is one of China’s biggest electronic music festivals, held in Shanghai.
It attracts top international DJs and electronic music enthusiasts from around the region.
S2O Songkran Music Festival (Bangkok, Thailand)
S2O is a unique water-themed music festival that takes place during Thailand’s Songkran (Thai New Year) festival.
Festival-goers enjoy music performances while getting drenched in water, creating a lively and refreshing experience.
Rainforest World Music Festival (Sarawak, Malaysia)
This unique festival celebrates traditional and world music, featuring performances by indigenous and international artists.
It takes place in the lush rainforests of Sarawak on the island of Borneo.
