Whether you’re looking for music, carnival rides, parades, food, or drink, we have compiled a list of top summer festivals in Northern California. From the outdoor favorite Sasquatch to Barcelona’s sprawling week-long Primavera Sound extravaganza, and local traditions like the Newport Folk Festival, there is a festival to suit every preference.

Start planning your 2022 festival experience in advance with these festivals that have already announced their lineups and ticket availability.

Lollapalooza

One of the world’s leading music festivals returns to Grant Park in Chicago every year. Lollapalooza, one of the largest summer music festivals in the US, attracts over 150,000 music lovers over four days. With its bright costumes, Brazilian samba music, and relaxed and lively atmosphere, Austin Carnival has become one of the largest festivals of its kind outside of Brazil.

Babes Fest

Organized by Boss Babes ATX, Babes Fest is an annual festival of music, art, film, comedy and education based in Austin, Texas for people who love a good show. Every June, music lovers from all over the world gather at the world-famous Telluride Bluegrass Festival for four days of bickering, carefree dancing, and musical fun. When it comes to folk, whether traditional or newer versions of it, no one brings artists together better than the Newport Folk Festival, a traditional festival that dates back to 1959 and has been a staple of the music community for decades.

Taste of Country Festival

The Taste of Country Festival in Hunter Mountain, New York, presents country music fans with three full days of exciting live music from the likes of Tim McGraw, Nikki Briar, Toby Keith, Sarah Evans, and more. Great country music in downtown New York makes the summer festival one of a kind, with added opportunities for sightseeing and other activities in the Big Apple.

Austin City Limits Music Festival

The Austin City Limits Festival is a must-visit event that perfectly captures incredible music scenes from all across the world. As the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin hosts this festival annually, drawing music lovers from all over. With a diverse lineup featuring local talents and famous artists, there’s something for everyone’s musical taste. From rock and folk to blues and country, the festival offers a wide range of genres to enjoy. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Austin’s culture, this festival immerses attendees in an unforgettable musical experience. If you love music, make sure to mark its dates in your calendar. Also, don’t forget to book well in advance (from a site similar to TicketSmarter) before the tickets are sold out. Trust us, it sells fast!

Parting Words

These were some of the festivals you can diarise. From the iconic Lollapalooza in Chicago to the vibrant Austin Carnival, and from the traditional Newport Folk Festival to the lively Country Fest in Cadott, these events offer an array of musical genres and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a fan of country music, folk traditions, or simply enjoy the energy of live performances, these festivals are worth planning and marking on your calendar. So, start envisioning your next summer adventure, immerse yourself in the melodies, and create unforgettable memories at these remarkable celebrations of music and culture.

Mollie Webb

About the Author

Hello there! My name is Mollie and I dream of seeing every major city in the world. Travelling is always incredible but there’s something special about the hustle and bustle of a big city that always entices me. Whether it be Tokyo or Mumbai, there’s always so much to discover from the locals and the side streets. Come along with me on my journey!