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Top Global Summer Music Festivals Revealed

By Nora Campbell | Published on  
Discover top summer music festivals around the world, featuring diverse lineups, unique experiences, and unforgettable memories.

Rocking out is a universal language, and summer music festivals provide the perfect opportunity for fans to come together and celebrate their shared love of music. With so many incredible festivals happening around the world, we’ve narrowed down our picks for the best ones to attend in 2019.

Since its inception in 2006, the Oceaga Festival has been going strong, boasting six separate stages of music. This Québécois festival doesn’t rely solely on big-name talent to earn its reputation, as it also invites plenty of local bands for the chance to play live alongside some of the industry’s biggest artists. This year’s lineup includes Hozier, Childish Gambino, Gucci Mane, Interpol, and many more, making Oceaga one of the coolest summer music fests around.

Starting in 2005, Tomorrowland may not possess the same decades-long pedigree as other festivals on this list, but that doesn’t make it any less enticing, especially for the young and adventurous. Specializing in electronic music with an emphasis on dancing and having a fantastic time, Tomorrowland has become increasingly popular over the years. This year, expect to see the Chainsmokers, Bebe Rexha, DJ Licious, Mode Step, CamelPhat, and many more playing long into the night and into the early bleary-eyed morning.

Glastonbury Festival in Pilton, England puts art first and foremost. This summer festival, which began in 1970, was inspired by the swinging hippie concerts of the era, including Woodstock and Isle of Wight. Multiple stages and events mean that every conceivable musical genre gets their time to shine, while dance shows, stand-up comedy, theater, and more provide welcome alternatives for adventurous festival-goers. This year, catch huge names like The Cure, The Killers, and The Wu-Tang Clan, as well as a tribute to departed Prodigy member Keith Flint.

Veteran visitors to the Spanish music festival FIB, or the Benicassim International Festival, know it as a nearly week-long party that invites everyone from musicians and fashion designers to filmmakers down to the beautiful resort area of Benicassim for a celebration of art. With music held off until the weekend, there’s plenty of time for campers and visitors to experience art exhibits, fashion shows, and cinema. This year, expect to see Lana Del Rey, Fatboy Slim, Kings of Leon, Franz Ferdinand, and more rock the FIB stage, making this a week to remember.

Denmark’s Roskilde Festival is a summer music concert with a difference. Here, the emphasis isn’t just placed upon having a good time, but also on education and activism, as showed by the festival’s various workshops and extracurricular activities. Of course, music fans also have plenty to look forward to with this summer’s lineup, which includes icons like Bob Dylan, as well as Tears for Fears, Cardi B, Carpenter Brut, Empire of the Sun, and more. At Roskilde, rock, pop, country, and electronic music mix for a good cause, bringing everyone together for a shared love of music and community.

Who said ski resorts are just for winter fun? Don’t tell that to the organizers behind Japan’s Fuji Rock Festival, which takes place at the Niaba Ski Resort in July for three full days of traditional and international music. With over seven stages, the gorgeous local scenery, and a mission to be as green and renewable as possible, you’ll never be bummed out hoofing it to watch your favorite artists. Delicious food options and an all-night dance party are also on hand for those not seeking to move from stage to stage. This year’s lineup includes the Chemical Brothers, The Cure, and Death Cab for Cutie, leaving the choice up to you.

The Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland has been going strong since 1967, welcoming musicians of all kinds to their stages for over half a century. While the festival’s name suggests a focus on jazz, it has hugged everything from traditional jazz and bebop to progressive rock, jazz vocals, and fusion. This year brings a score of musical icons to the Swiss stage, including Sting, Janet Jackson, and Elton John. Meanwhile, Joan Baez, Slash, ZZ Top, Thom Yorke, and more prove that you can always expect the unexpected when attending the Montreux Jazz Festival.

For one weekend a year, all that is heavy converges upon the small German town of Wacken to bring together music fans from all around the world. Wacken Open Air is more than just a summer music festival—it’s a pilgrimage for many who feel that this is, quite simply, the best metal fest in the world. Fans can choose to camp out for the weekend or take shuttles back and forth between the packed multi-stage event, but diehards will tell you that roughing it is the only true way to have an authentic Wacken experience. Diamond Head, Saxon, Monster Magnet, and Testament are just a few of the big names playing Wacken this year, while attendees will also enjoy Slayer’s final German festival show, as well as a special Hellhammer set from Celtic Frost frontman Tom G. Warrior.

In conclusion, the world is brimming with a diverse array of summer music festivals that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of electronic beats, heavy metal, or eclectic musical experiences, there’s a festival out there that perfectly suits your interests. These events not only provide a platform for renowned artists and up-and-comers to share their talent with enthusiastic audiences, but also offer unique opportunities for festival-goers to immerse themselves in various art forms, participate in workshops and activities, and connect with like-minded individuals from across the globe. As you explore the incredible festivals mentioned in this post, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories and perhaps even discover your new favorite artist. So, pack your bags, gather your friends, and get ready to embark on a thrilling musical adventure that promises to be the highlight of your summer.

When packing for a summer music festival, be sure to bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, a portable phone charger, a small backpack or fanny pack, and any necessary personal items or medications. It’s also a good idea to check the festival’s specific guidelines for allowed items and restrictions before attending.

To stay safe and healthy during a music festival, make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in shaded areas to avoid heat exhaustion. Additionally, be mindful of your alcohol consumption, stick with a group of friends, and set up a meeting point in case you get separated.

While some summer music festivals cater to a more adult audience, many offer family-friendly activities and designated areas for children. Be sure to research each festival’s specific policies and amenities to determine if it’s a suitable environment for your family.

Attending a summer music festival on a budget is possible with careful planning. Look for early bird or discounted tickets, consider volunteering at the event in exchange for free admission, and research affordable accommodation options like camping or staying with friends. Additionally, prepare your own meals and snacks when possible to save on food costs.

To make the most of your summer music festival experience, be open to discovering new artists and genres, participate in workshops and activities, and connect with fellow festival-goers. Also, plan your schedule in advance, but remain flexible to take advantage of unexpected opportunities that may arise. Most importantly, stay present in the moment and enjoy the unique atmosphere that only a music festival can provide.