Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
When: April 11–13 and 18–20, 2025
Where: Empire Polo Club, Indio, California
Coachella is a music festival that needs no introduction. Every year, thousands of music lovers flock to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, to immerse themselves in the diverse lineup Coachella offers. In 2025, attendees are in for a treat with headliners like Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone, and Travis Scott. This festival is not just about music; it’s a sensory overload with art installations and sculptures that captivate the imagination. Known for its genre-spanning lineup, Coachella is a melting pot of rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. With over 250,000 attendees each year, it remains a must-visit for anyone who breathes music and culture.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
When: April 24–May 4, 2025
Where: Fair Grounds Race Course, New Orleans, Louisiana
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a vibrant celebration of the city’s rich musical tapestry. This festival is a fusion of jazz, blues, rock, and roots music, offering a unique atmosphere that mirrors the cultural diversity of New Orleans itself. In 2025, the lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band, and Santana. It’s not just the music that draws over 400,000 visitors annually; it’s the vibrant atmosphere and delectable local cuisine that make it a standout event. This festival is a testament to the city’s enduring love affair with music and its ability to bring people together.
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
When: June 12–15, 2025
Where: Great Stage Park, Manchester, Tennessee
Bonnaroo is synonymous with an eclectic lineup and a vibrant camping experience. The 2025 edition promises performances from Olivia Rodrigo, Hozier, and Luke Combs. Bonnaroo is not just about the music; it’s an experience that emphasizes sustainability and community. Attendees can engage in various workshops and activities, creating a sense of belonging that few festivals can match. With over 90 acts across multiple stages, Bonnaroo offers something for everyone, from indie rock to hip-hop. Each year, it draws around 80,000 music enthusiasts, cementing its place as a staple in the summer festival circuit.
Lollapalooza
When: July 31–August 3, 2025
Where: Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois
Lollapalooza is a cornerstone of the American music festival landscape. Held in the heart of Chicago, this festival features a wide range of artists across multiple stages. The 2025 lineup includes notable acts like Tyler, the Creator, and many more. Lollapalooza is not just about music; it’s a cultural experience that includes art installations, food vendors, and various activities that enhance the overall ambiance. With an expected attendance of over 400,000 people, this festival is a celebration of music and culture that is not to be missed. It’s a testament to the power of music to bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds.
Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival
When: August 8–10, 2025
Where: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California
Outside Lands is a festival that offers stunning views and a diverse lineup, set against the picturesque backdrop of Golden Gate Park. The 2025 festival features headliners such as Hozier, Doja Cat, Anderson .Paak, and Vampire Weekend. Outside Lands is not only about music; it emphasizes sustainability and local cuisine, offering a unique experience for attendees. Each year, the festival attracts around 200,000 visitors, making it one of the most popular events in the Bay Area. It’s a celebration of art, food, and music, all set in one of the most beautiful parks in the world.
Sea.Hear.Now Festival
When: September 13–14, 2025
Where: Asbury Park, New Jersey
The Sea.Hear.Now Festival is a unique blend of music and surf culture, held on the sandy shores of Asbury Park. In 2025, the lineup includes Hozier, Blink-182, LCD Soundsystem, Alabama Shakes, and Lenny Kravitz. This festival is not only about great music; it promotes environmental awareness and ocean conservation. With its stunning coastal backdrop, Sea.Hear.Now attracts thousands of music lovers each year. It’s a must-visit for those who love the beach and music, offering a laid-back atmosphere that is both relaxing and invigorating.
Cruel World Festival
When: May 17, 2025
Where: Brookside Golf Course at the Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California
The Cruel World Festival is a nostalgic journey into the sounds of the ’80s. The 2025 edition features headliners like New Order, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, along with other iconic acts such as Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and Garbage. This festival appeals to fans of new wave and gothic rock, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that celebrates the sounds of the past. With an expected attendance of around 30,000, Cruel World is a unique experience for fans of retro music and culture. It’s a festival that transports attendees back to a time when music was raw and unfiltered.
Ultra Music Festival
When: March 28–30, 2025
Where: Bayfront Park, Miami, Florida
Ultra Music Festival is a premier electronic dance music event that draws top DJs and electronic artists from around the globe. In 2025, the lineup includes heavyweights like Afrojack, Carl Cox, Martin Garrix, Tiesto, and Zeds Dead. Known for its high-energy performances and stunning stage designs, Ultra attracts over 165,000 attendees each year. It’s a celebration of electronic music and culture, making it a must-attend event for EDM fans. Ultra is a sensory explosion that leaves attendees buzzing long after the music has stopped.
Tomorrowland Unity Festival
When: August 29–31, 2025
Where: Sphere Las Vegas, Nevada
Tomorrowland Unity Festival marks the return of this iconic festival to the U.S. after a long hiatus. Known for its immersive visuals and surprise headliner sets, Tomorrowland Unity promises an unforgettable experience for attendees. With its reputation for high production quality and a diverse lineup, it’s expected to attract a large crowd of electronic music enthusiasts. Tomorrowland Unity aims to unite people through the power of music, making it a significant event in the festival calendar. It’s a celebration of unity, diversity, and the universal language of music.
Dreamville Festival
When: April 5–6, 2025
Where: Raleigh, North Carolina
Curated by rapper J. Cole, the Dreamville Festival is a celebration of hip-hop and R&B music. The 2025 lineup features performances by Lil Wayne, 21 Savage, Erykah Badu, and many more. This festival is not just about music; it emphasizes community engagement and empowerment. With an expected attendance of around 40,000, Dreamville Festival is quickly becoming a staple in the music festival scene. It’s a unique experience that brings together fans and artists in a celebration of music, culture, and community.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
