California is known for its stunning landscapes, incredible weather and first-class party scene. It makes sense as to why there are so many amazing festivals since “Cali girls” and boys definitely know how to have a good time and appreciate the moment.
From the most Instagrammed music festival in the world – Coachella, to the epic NYE celebration that is Snowglobe, California has a large variety of festivals for every person and all types of weather. So if you’re looking to spend your weekend, or simply a day, singing your heart out while being surrounded by food, art and good vibes - these are the best music festivals in California you need to experience.
Coachella
When: April 12 - 14, 2019 | April 19 - 21, 2019
Where: Indio, United States
Coachella is an experience like no other as it offers much more than music but world class art, sustainability and delicious food. It’s iconic for having artists who don’t usually perform at festivals which brings in a wide variety of music from hip-hop to electric. Lucky enough, Coachella hosts two weekends to make sure you don’t miss out on the fun.
Bottlerock
When: May 24 - 26, 2019
Where: Napa, United States
Wine, craft beer, spas, bourbon and music - the perfect combination. Bottlerock knows how to put together an incredible environment that has a bit of everything. Aside from its stellar food and drink options, the line up consists of rock, hip-hop, electric and much more. And the party doesn’t stop with the last performance as there are after shows too!
Lightning In A Bottle
When: May 22 - 27, 2019
Where: Bradley, United States
The eco-conscious festival is the only festival in the United States to have won the “Outstanding Award” from A Greener Festival. Lightning In A Bottle is doing much more than hosting some of the best musicians in the world. It’s creating a space where sustainability, cultural respect and creative expression is present. While you jam out to electronic beats, you’ll learn much more than you expected.
Check Out: Festivals Near You
FYF
When: July, 2019 (TBA)
Where: Los Angeles, United States
With the name “F*ck Yeah Fest” and based in a huge party city, you can expect top-notch performances and nights you’ll never forget. FYF Fest showcases popular musicians from the genres of rock, pop, indie, hip-hop and EDM. With four stages set up playing live music, you will definitely have the time of your life!
Outside Lands
When: August 9 - 11, 2019
Where: San Fransisco, United States
The Bay area comes even more lively when Outside Lands comes into town. With over 60 musical acts from around the world, you can expect indie rock, alternative rock, electronic and hip-hop. Along with its music, there’s also inspiring art installations, comedy acts and nothing but good vibes.
HARD Summer
When: August, 2019 (TBA)
Where: Fontana, United States
Just like the name of the festival, HARD Summer goes extremely hard. It showcases electronic acts that will have you headbanging the night away. If you’re looking for some epic tunes and endless raving, HARD Summer is a must.
KAABOO Del Mar
When: September 13 - 15, 2019
Where: Del Mar, United States
Forget the regular meaning of “festival”! An unforgettable entertainment and art experience sounds more like what KAABOO is about. It’s much more than music though it plays a large part of the experience. During the three days that KAABOO is held, you’ll be surrounded by amusing comedy, inspiring art, amazing music and finger-licking cuisine.
Check Out: Festivals Near Beach
Nocturnal Wonderland
When: September, 2019 (TBA)
Where: San Bernardino, United States
Once you step into Nocturnal Wonderland, it will feel like a whole different dimension. With the vibrant LED lights, glow-in-the-dark features and pulsing beats, this festival is a place like no other. Dedicated to electronic music, you can expect lots of bass drops and trembles on the ground. Join the mystical world of Nocturnal Wonderland!
Dreamstate SoCal
When: November 23 - 24, 2018
Where: San Bernardino, United States
Dreamstate is a call to all dreamers, dancers and lovers. The euphoric atmosphere and the trance music will leave you on a high as you feel the beats and energy around you. The festival has become so needed that it has expanded to locations worldwide but don’t wait! No matter the location, tickets sell out quickly.
Check Out: Upcoming Festivals
Snowglobe
When: December 29 - 31, 2018
Where: South Lake Tahoe, United States
As the country’s largest outdoor NYE music festival, you better believe that Snowglobe sets the standard high to end the year the right way. World-class musicians take on the multiple stages in South Lake Tahoe while the mountains set a picturesque backdrop. Whether you’re a house, rap or trap music fan, you’ll be surrounded by a loving and fun community.
Which one is on your bucket list? Let us know, and don’t forget to share with your friends!
Written by Emily Garcés
Emily is a freelance writer and content creator. When she's not traveling, she loves spending time with her family & friends, going to coffee shops and trying to figure out where her next destination should be.