Top 7 Music Festivals Around the World Worth Traveling For This Summer
Back in the era of paper tickets and cash-only concessions, I attended my first summer music festival: Livestock '94 in Salt Lake City. Featuring legendary acts like Blue Öyster Cult and the Doobie Brothers at the Utah State Fairpark, it sparked my lifelong passion for live music events. Teaming up with my friend Liza—armed with her Doc Martens and edgy style—I was hooked. Though Livestock no longer exists, the global summer festival scene continues to thrive. As a Travelzoo music enthusiast, here are seven standout festivals worth the journey.
Isle of Wight Festival, UK
Predating Woodstock, the Isle of Wight Festival began in 1968 with acts like Jefferson Airplane. The next year, even the Beatles attended to see Bob Dylan. This year's event (June 13-16) marks the 50th anniversary of that iconic 1969 weekend. Dress in peace-and-love attire if you wish, but the lineup alone justifies the trip: Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Garbage, Keane, George Ezra, and Lily Allen. Be sure to: Book a "bathing under the sky" experience with wood-fired hot tubs and a cooling pool.
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Manchester, TN
Missed Coachella? Bonnaroo, a staple since 2002, offers a stellar mix of blues, rap, country, pop, and indie. This year's lineup (June 13-16) features Phish, Cardi B, The Lumineers, Hozier, and The Avett Brothers. Stay on-site with RV spots and tents—follow the packing list, but skip slacklines and drones. Be sure to: Get a car camping pass to pitch your tent next to your vehicle.
Fuji Rock Festival, Yuzawa-cho, Japan
Naeba Ski Resort hosts the Fuji Rock Festival (July 26-28), blending global stars like The Chemical Brothers, The Cure, Janelle Monáe, James Blake, and Sia. Be sure to: Ride the Dragondola, Japan's longest gondola at 25 minutes.
Heavy Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Heavy Montreal (July 26-28) shatters stereotypes with headbangers like Anthrax, Godsmack, Slash with Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators, and Slayer's potential final Quebec show. Be sure to: Take breaks from the mosh pit for Canadian poutine at the food kiosks.
Lollapalooza, Chicago
Launched in 1991 by Perry Farrell of Jane’s Addiction, Lollapalooza remains iconic. In Chicago’s Grant Park (Aug. 1-4), expect Ariana Grande, The Strokes, Childish Gambino, and more. International editions abound in Paris, Stockholm, Berlin, and South America. Be sure to: Explore Lollapalooza’s sustainability initiatives.
Woodstock 50, Watkins Glen, NY
Honoring the 1969 original on Max Yasgur’s farm, Woodstock 50 (Aug. 16-18) celebrates “Peace, love & music…for the people, for the planet.” Headliners include Jay-Z, The Killers, Pussy Riot, and David Crosby and friends. Despite rumors, it's on with a countdown clock. Be sure to: Sign up for updates, just in case.
Rock in Rio, Brazil
Extend summer with Rock in Rio (Sept. 27–Oct. 6) at Rio’s Barra Olympic Park. Featuring Drake, Foo Fighters, P!nk, and metal legends—plus special guests—since 1985 (Queen headlined early), it has planted 73 million trees in the Amazon. Be sure to: Book an official festival hotel for shuttle perks.
