Disclaimer: This article came out AFTER most of one's chances of going to one of these "festivals" was long over with BUT the info contained within is still relevant!
By Allie Krause
Music festival virgin? Looking to pop your cherry? Then look no further! Every year, there are hundreds of musical festivals organized worldwide, and choosing one, or even a few, can be a harrowing task. But this process of choice is crucial – not all festivals were made equal, and some, no matter how popular, may just not be for you.
There are many factors to consider when making this difficult choice: preferred music style, whether it be mainstream pop, or bluegrass; whether you want a crowd of hundreds of thousands, or just hundreds; whether you want to dance under the sun, or in the rain. But the most important issue to consider: to camp or not to camp, that is the question.
Coachella 2013
Where? Indio, California, USA
When? Friday April 12 – Sunday April 14; Friday April 19 – Sunday April 21
What? The most glamorous (and well-known) music festival of the year, this two-weekend affair is known for its beautiful celebrities, high fashion, and big-name music acts.
Who? This year’s line-up includes industry heavyweights Florence + The Machine, Gotye, Radiohead, and Childish Gambino, as well as a smattering of every kind of popular music genre you can think of.
Why? The perfect way to kick off the festival season, Coachella encompasses the music festival’s essence of awesome. With great music, gorgeous weather, and its proximity to L.A., why would you miss it?
Advice? It’s hard to stay beautiful for a whole weekend sans shower, so if you’re camping, bring wet wipes, dry shampoo, a hairbrush, and a sense of humor. Trust me, you’ll need that last one.
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival 2013
Where? Manchester, Tennessee, USA
When? Thursday June 13 – Sunday June 16
What? Spread over 700 acres of farmland, this archetypal American music festival may not be quite as well established as some of its cousins both in the US and across the pond, but it certainly rivals them in size and popularity. Get ready for a weekend of booze and drug fueled fun.
Who? Past acts include Jay-Z, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bon Iver, and Arcade Fire, so this year’s Bonnaroo lineup is guaranteed to impress.
Why? Described by Rolling Stone as “the ultimate over-the-top festival”, The Roo has developed a reputation of showin’ them festivalgoers a good time. Need I say more?
Advice? Bring your own weed.
The Sasquatch! Music Festival 2013
Where? The Gorge, Washington, USA
When? Thursday May 24 – Sunday May 27 (TBC)
What? Sasquatch! is well known for its slightly less famous, but no less fantastic, artists. The Memorial Day Weekend festival provides an experience distinct from most others through its scenic views overlooking the Columbia River and diverse music choices.
Who? Past acts have included some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as Death Cab For Cutie, MGMT, Kid Cudi, and Passion Pit.
Why? Considered the Northwest’s best kept secret, if you’re looking for something unique, but with the big names and crowds of Coachella and Bonnaroo, Sasquatch! is for you.
Advice? Weather in this area of the Northwest can be very unpredictable, and Mother Nature is likely to turn against you. In the words of Uncle Scar, be prepared!
Tickets for Sasquatch! 2014 should go on sale in late November.
Glastonbury 2013
Where? Pilton, Somerset, England
When? Wednesday June 26 – Sunday June 30
What? The world’s largest greenfield festival, every aspiring festivalgoer should go to Glasto at least once in their lives. But good luck getting tickets – 2013 tickets sold out in less than two hours. If you are lucky enough to have acquired a ticket, expect mud, and lots of it – England is a rainy, rainy place.
Who? Although lineup is not announced until well into next year, you don’t have to worry about it falling short of expectations. With past headliners comprising of Coldplay, Muse, R.E.M., and The Cure, you can be certain of a show-stopping lineup.
Why? If you’re seeking to cross the pond for a music festival, Glasto is a must. Yes, it’s mainstream. Yes, it’s muddy. But god, is it worth it.
Advice? Glastonbury is the time to literally get down and dirty, so bring wellies (Americans, read: rain boots) and a waterproof tent. And lots and lots of booze.
Tickets for Glastonbury 2013 have sold out early...check soon for 2014.
Festival Internacional de Benicàssim 2013
Where? Benicàssim, Castelló, Spain
When? Thursday July 18 – Sunday July 21
What? Beni has reputation as one of the best festivals on the international circuits, and attracts a generally young, hip crowd that likes to party. Located near several beaches, it’s a favorable option for those who can’t stand the rain and mud of Glasto and other UK festivals.
Who? With previous headliners including Leonard Cohen, Arctic Monkeys, Bob Dylan, and The Strokes, Beni can hold its own weight against US and UK music festival bastions.
Why? Sea, sunshine, music, Spain. Enough said, really.
Advice? Bring sunscreen, ¡hace sol en bella Españal.
South by Southwest (SXSW) 2013
Where? Austin, Texas, USA
When? Thursday March 7 – Sunday March 17
What? A staple on any self-respecting media-geek’s calendar, SXSW completely takes over downtown Austin to provide entertainment of all kinds, ranging from music, art, and film, to interactive panels and sketch comedy.
Who? Though the 2013 lineup has yet to be announced, SXSW alumnae include 50 Cent, Kings of Leon, R.E.M. and The xx.
Why? If you have even a vague interest in media, SXSW is for you. Prepare to have your mind blown by the multitude of options available.
Advice? Decide what main events you want to attend beforehand, because festivals of SXSW’s size can be pretty overwhelming and you may end up missing out. And, if you’re interested in furthering your media connections, now is the time to network network network!
Electric Daisy Carnival 2013
Where? Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
When? Friday June 7 – Sunday June 9
What? Though it began as purely an electronic music festival, EDC has evolved into a completely unique entertainment experience. Expect giant carnival rides, amazing dance and art displays, and spectacular production.
Who? Electric Daisy always attracts the biggest names in electronic and house music, so expect a top quality lineup. To give you a taste, last year’s EDC was headlined by David Guetta, Avicii, and Tiësto.
Why? If you feel like getting super-trippy, dressing up in crazy outfits, and raving for three days, EDC is for you. With a crowd of hundreds of thousands, it’s a wild time, but truly exhilarating.
Advice? Raves like EDC tend to lend themselves to excessive drug use, so be careful and watch out for those with you. If you do choose to experience the effects of mind-altering substances, don’t ruin your weekend (or your life) by buying from disreputable sources. Stay safe. And dress up!
Tickets for 2014 should be on sale around February-March 2014.
Lollapalooza 2013
Where? Chicago, Illinois, USA
When? Friday August 2 – Sunday August 4
What? Located between the shores of Lake Michigan and the iconic Chicago skyline, Lollapalooza is probably the best-known non-camping festival in the US.
Who? With a heavy emphasis on rock, Lolla draws a slightly different crowd of performers, such as The Killers, Jack White, and Black Sabbath. However, with artists like Kanye and Gaga, there’s always still a nod to the popular music of Coachella and Glasto.
Why? First and foremost, its cool and extremely central location provides many alternative activities if you get bored of the festivities (but really, why would you be bored?). On top of this, Lolla is actually much more reasonably priced than almost any other major music festivals.
Advice? Prepare to dance all day and into the night. And after this year’s “Lollapocalypse”, where the site was evacuated due to thunderstorms, remember to bring your rain boots!
Tickets for Lollapalooza 2014 should go on sale in April 2014 - 2013 sold out FAST (at least, the most popular act-filled days/3-day passes will sell out quickly...and will go UP ... FAST ... in $$$ ...GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THIS EARLY -- YOU CAN ALWAYS SELL THEM LATER IF PLANS NEED TO CHANGE BUT YOU'LL REGRET ALL YEAR YOU DIDN'T GET YOURS BEFORE MEMORIAL DAY ONCE YOU REALIZE YOU WANT TO/CAN GO ...IN Mid-JUNE! YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!
Yahoo Wireless Festival 2013
Where? London, England
When? Friday July 5 – Sunday July 7
What? One of the largest music festivals in English capital, if you happen to be around, be sure not to miss it. Set in Hyde Park, it’s located just a hop, skip, and a jump away from London’s biggest attractions.
Who? Wireless tends to favor lots of chart-topping artists, with past headliners including the likes of The Black Eyed Peas, Rihanna, and David Guetta.
Why? Although Wireless adds nothing completely revolutionary to the music festival scene, its simplicity can be appealing for many. It’s a weekend (or just a day) of seeing your chart-heroes live and dancing your heart out – no distractions.
Advice? England’s weather can be somewhat changeable. This ain’t Cali, so dress appropriately.
EXIT Festival 2013
Where? Petrovaradin Forest, Novi Sad, Serbia. Yeah, Serbia.
When? Tuesday June 11 – Friday June 14 (TBC)
What? Considered one of the best music festivals in Europe, Exit is particularly special in its location overlooking the River Danube.
Who? Drawing a group of artists distinct from most other large music festivals, Exit’s lineup has included Deadmau5, Santigold, Arcade Fire, Beirut, Magnetic Man and Steve Aoki.
Why? In a world of music festivals with almost identical lineups and standards, Exit manages to stand out as individual and quite, quite spectacular. With its beautiful surroundings, and no noise level restrictions, Exit truly is a different kind of awesome.
Advice? Kickoff isn’t til late into the evening and finishes at about 7am, so spend your days wandering around Novi Sad, appreciating the local cuisine, or relaxing on the beach or in the park. Then get ready to dance the night away to the best house music in the world.
Adapted from http://www.outofordermag.com/2012/10/musical-festival-guide-2013/
As a final parting note: these tickets (like most tickets) will only increase in price as the date of the festival draws closer ... if the ticket(s) you are looking for are still available on the regular market (aka without having to pay secondary-market limb & leg ticket prices! NOTE: 1 days UM Halloween from $27 to $154 within a day of selling out...almost a month before the shows...just saying...and they ain't Lollapalooza (though they should be a headliner...in my opinion!) -- LONG STORY SHORT -- If you have any interest in attending a festival, it's best advice to get your ticket(s) as EARLY AS POSSIBLE...you can ALWAYS re-home your ticket(s) later if plans must change! Happy dancing :)
Music festival virgin? Looking to pop your cherry? Then look no further! Every year, there are hundreds of musical festivals organized worldwide, and choosing one, or even a few, can be a harrowing task. But this process of choice is crucial – not all festivals were made equal, and some, no matter how popular, may just not be for you.
There are many factors to consider when making this difficult choice: preferred music style, whether it be mainstream pop, or bluegrass; whether you want a crowd of hundreds of thousands, or just hundreds; whether you want to dance under the sun, or in the rain. But the most important issue to consider: to camp or not to camp, that is the question.
CAMPING FESTIVALS
At camping festivals, the average festivalgoer’s experience usually consists of traipsing through knee-deep mud, queuing up for hours to buy overpriced, somewhat questionable-tasting burgers, and practically engaging in fisticuffs to get as close to the main stage as possible. And, for a weekend, hygiene goes out the window. Nevertheless, camping festivals are also notorious for their riotous fun, and it’s not hard to see why – the parties last all night, and, of course, there’s no need for a designated driver!Coachella 2013
Where? Indio, California, USA
When? Friday April 12 – Sunday April 14; Friday April 19 – Sunday April 21
What? The most glamorous (and well-known) music festival of the year, this two-weekend affair is known for its beautiful celebrities, high fashion, and big-name music acts.
Who? This year’s line-up includes industry heavyweights Florence + The Machine, Gotye, Radiohead, and Childish Gambino, as well as a smattering of every kind of popular music genre you can think of.
Why? The perfect way to kick off the festival season, Coachella encompasses the music festival’s essence of awesome. With great music, gorgeous weather, and its proximity to L.A., why would you miss it?
Advice? It’s hard to stay beautiful for a whole weekend sans shower, so if you’re camping, bring wet wipes, dry shampoo, a hairbrush, and a sense of humor. Trust me, you’ll need that last one.
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival 2013
Where? Manchester, Tennessee, USA
When? Thursday June 13 – Sunday June 16
What? Spread over 700 acres of farmland, this archetypal American music festival may not be quite as well established as some of its cousins both in the US and across the pond, but it certainly rivals them in size and popularity. Get ready for a weekend of booze and drug fueled fun.
Who? Past acts include Jay-Z, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bon Iver, and Arcade Fire, so this year’s Bonnaroo lineup is guaranteed to impress.
Why? Described by Rolling Stone as “the ultimate over-the-top festival”, The Roo has developed a reputation of showin’ them festivalgoers a good time. Need I say more?
Advice? Bring your own weed.
The Sasquatch! Music Festival 2013
Where? The Gorge, Washington, USA
When? Thursday May 24 – Sunday May 27 (TBC)
What? Sasquatch! is well known for its slightly less famous, but no less fantastic, artists. The Memorial Day Weekend festival provides an experience distinct from most others through its scenic views overlooking the Columbia River and diverse music choices.
Who? Past acts have included some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as Death Cab For Cutie, MGMT, Kid Cudi, and Passion Pit.
Why? Considered the Northwest’s best kept secret, if you’re looking for something unique, but with the big names and crowds of Coachella and Bonnaroo, Sasquatch! is for you.
Advice? Weather in this area of the Northwest can be very unpredictable, and Mother Nature is likely to turn against you. In the words of Uncle Scar, be prepared!
Tickets for Sasquatch! 2014 should go on sale in late November.
Glastonbury 2013
Where? Pilton, Somerset, England
When? Wednesday June 26 – Sunday June 30
What? The world’s largest greenfield festival, every aspiring festivalgoer should go to Glasto at least once in their lives. But good luck getting tickets – 2013 tickets sold out in less than two hours. If you are lucky enough to have acquired a ticket, expect mud, and lots of it – England is a rainy, rainy place.
Who? Although lineup is not announced until well into next year, you don’t have to worry about it falling short of expectations. With past headliners comprising of Coldplay, Muse, R.E.M., and The Cure, you can be certain of a show-stopping lineup.
Why? If you’re seeking to cross the pond for a music festival, Glasto is a must. Yes, it’s mainstream. Yes, it’s muddy. But god, is it worth it.
Advice? Glastonbury is the time to literally get down and dirty, so bring wellies (Americans, read: rain boots) and a waterproof tent. And lots and lots of booze.
Tickets for Glastonbury 2013 have sold out early...check soon for 2014.
Festival Internacional de Benicàssim 2013
Where? Benicàssim, Castelló, Spain
When? Thursday July 18 – Sunday July 21
What? Beni has reputation as one of the best festivals on the international circuits, and attracts a generally young, hip crowd that likes to party. Located near several beaches, it’s a favorable option for those who can’t stand the rain and mud of Glasto and other UK festivals.
Who? With previous headliners including Leonard Cohen, Arctic Monkeys, Bob Dylan, and The Strokes, Beni can hold its own weight against US and UK music festival bastions.
Why? Sea, sunshine, music, Spain. Enough said, really.
Advice? Bring sunscreen, ¡hace sol en bella Españal.
NON-CAMPING FESTIVALS
For those of you not quite in to the idea of roughing it in a tent for a weekend, there are equally fabulous day (and night) alternatives across the globe. So whether you want to be schmoozing and boozing in Austin, or raving in Las Vegas, there is sure to be a day festival for you.South by Southwest (SXSW) 2013
Where? Austin, Texas, USA
When? Thursday March 7 – Sunday March 17
What? A staple on any self-respecting media-geek’s calendar, SXSW completely takes over downtown Austin to provide entertainment of all kinds, ranging from music, art, and film, to interactive panels and sketch comedy.
Who? Though the 2013 lineup has yet to be announced, SXSW alumnae include 50 Cent, Kings of Leon, R.E.M. and The xx.
Why? If you have even a vague interest in media, SXSW is for you. Prepare to have your mind blown by the multitude of options available.
Advice? Decide what main events you want to attend beforehand, because festivals of SXSW’s size can be pretty overwhelming and you may end up missing out. And, if you’re interested in furthering your media connections, now is the time to network network network!
Electric Daisy Carnival 2013
Where? Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
When? Friday June 7 – Sunday June 9
What? Though it began as purely an electronic music festival, EDC has evolved into a completely unique entertainment experience. Expect giant carnival rides, amazing dance and art displays, and spectacular production.
Who? Electric Daisy always attracts the biggest names in electronic and house music, so expect a top quality lineup. To give you a taste, last year’s EDC was headlined by David Guetta, Avicii, and Tiësto.
Why? If you feel like getting super-trippy, dressing up in crazy outfits, and raving for three days, EDC is for you. With a crowd of hundreds of thousands, it’s a wild time, but truly exhilarating.
Advice? Raves like EDC tend to lend themselves to excessive drug use, so be careful and watch out for those with you. If you do choose to experience the effects of mind-altering substances, don’t ruin your weekend (or your life) by buying from disreputable sources. Stay safe. And dress up!
Tickets for 2014 should be on sale around February-March 2014.
Lollapalooza 2013
Where? Chicago, Illinois, USA
When? Friday August 2 – Sunday August 4
What? Located between the shores of Lake Michigan and the iconic Chicago skyline, Lollapalooza is probably the best-known non-camping festival in the US.
Who? With a heavy emphasis on rock, Lolla draws a slightly different crowd of performers, such as The Killers, Jack White, and Black Sabbath. However, with artists like Kanye and Gaga, there’s always still a nod to the popular music of Coachella and Glasto.
Why? First and foremost, its cool and extremely central location provides many alternative activities if you get bored of the festivities (but really, why would you be bored?). On top of this, Lolla is actually much more reasonably priced than almost any other major music festivals.
Advice? Prepare to dance all day and into the night. And after this year’s “Lollapocalypse”, where the site was evacuated due to thunderstorms, remember to bring your rain boots!
Tickets for Lollapalooza 2014 should go on sale in April 2014 - 2013 sold out FAST (at least, the most popular act-filled days/3-day passes will sell out quickly...and will go UP ... FAST ... in $$$ ...GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THIS EARLY -- YOU CAN ALWAYS SELL THEM LATER IF PLANS NEED TO CHANGE BUT YOU'LL REGRET ALL YEAR YOU DIDN'T GET YOURS BEFORE MEMORIAL DAY ONCE YOU REALIZE YOU WANT TO/CAN GO ...IN Mid-JUNE! YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!
Yahoo Wireless Festival 2013
Where? London, England
When? Friday July 5 – Sunday July 7
What? One of the largest music festivals in English capital, if you happen to be around, be sure not to miss it. Set in Hyde Park, it’s located just a hop, skip, and a jump away from London’s biggest attractions.
Who? Wireless tends to favor lots of chart-topping artists, with past headliners including the likes of The Black Eyed Peas, Rihanna, and David Guetta.
Why? Although Wireless adds nothing completely revolutionary to the music festival scene, its simplicity can be appealing for many. It’s a weekend (or just a day) of seeing your chart-heroes live and dancing your heart out – no distractions.
Advice? England’s weather can be somewhat changeable. This ain’t Cali, so dress appropriately.
EXIT Festival 2013
Where? Petrovaradin Forest, Novi Sad, Serbia. Yeah, Serbia.
When? Tuesday June 11 – Friday June 14 (TBC)
What? Considered one of the best music festivals in Europe, Exit is particularly special in its location overlooking the River Danube.
Who? Drawing a group of artists distinct from most other large music festivals, Exit’s lineup has included Deadmau5, Santigold, Arcade Fire, Beirut, Magnetic Man and Steve Aoki.
Why? In a world of music festivals with almost identical lineups and standards, Exit manages to stand out as individual and quite, quite spectacular. With its beautiful surroundings, and no noise level restrictions, Exit truly is a different kind of awesome.
Advice? Kickoff isn’t til late into the evening and finishes at about 7am, so spend your days wandering around Novi Sad, appreciating the local cuisine, or relaxing on the beach or in the park. Then get ready to dance the night away to the best house music in the world.
PARTING ADVICE
It can be very tempting to think that with all these big industry names headlining events that festivals have become too mainstream, and are no longer “cool” or “alternative” enough. False. You’re never too cool for Coachella. No matter which festival you pick, there will always be a huge selection of bands and solo artists, most of whom you will never have heard of. Often, it will be these lesser-knowns that end up giving some of the best sets you’ll hear. With all this in mind, go forth and pick wisely, young grasshopper. Buena suerte, and have a rockin’ festival season.Adapted from http://www.outofordermag.com/2012/10/musical-festival-guide-2013/
As a final parting note: these tickets (like most tickets) will only increase in price as the date of the festival draws closer ... if the ticket(s) you are looking for are still available on the regular market (aka without having to pay secondary-market limb & leg ticket prices! NOTE: 1 days UM Halloween from $27 to $154 within a day of selling out...almost a month before the shows...just saying...and they ain't Lollapalooza (though they should be a headliner...in my opinion!) -- LONG STORY SHORT -- If you have any interest in attending a festival, it's best advice to get your ticket(s) as EARLY AS POSSIBLE...you can ALWAYS re-home your ticket(s) later if plans must change! Happy dancing :)
