10 Best US Festivals This Summer
Ten of the Best US Festivals this Summer
by Elizabeth Baker
Summer is here, and so are US Festivals!
As we all know, the United States is home to some of the most unique festivals in the world. So OTL Seat Fillers decided to round up the top ten worth experiencing this summer.
From music, food, arts, and culture, there's something for everyone in these US festivals that are spread all over the country and home to some of our preferred locations!
10. CMA Music Festival - Nashville, TN
Country music fans will want to attend the CMA Music Festival in Nashville, featuring performances by some of the genre's biggest stars. The four-day celebration is jam-packed with exploration and unforgettable experiences. Learn more at CMA Fest 2023.
9. Telluride Film Festival - Telluride, CO
The Telluride Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the country. The organizers don't reveal what's playing until you actually arrive. But you can count on more than 50 programs being screened across 10 venues (TFF audiences were among the first to watch Brokeback Mountain, Slumdog Millionaire, and Up In the Air).
8. Essence Festival - New Orleans, LA – US Festival Anniversary
Essence is a long-standing Black-female-centered magazine. And, known as the "party with a purpose," the Essence Festival is considered the largest Black culture and music event in the United States. Join over 500,000 people as they celebrate their 25th anniversary.
7. Newport Jazz Festival - Newport, RI
Following in the footsteps of the Newport Folk Festival, the Newport Jazz Festival offers three days of legendary jazz artists, like Wynton Marsalis and Andra Day. This year's festival also features a special tribute to Aretha Franklin.
For something a little more low-key, the Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island is a must-see for jazz enthusiasts.
6. Pitchfork Music Festival - Chicago, IL
One of the best-curated US festivals, Pitchfork Music Festival offers a range of artists that represent all genres and eras of music. This year, catch performances from St. Vincent, Phoebe Bridgers, and Animal Collective, and record fair and panel discussions.
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5. Bonnaroo - Manchester, TN
Held in Tennessee, Bonnaroo is a four day camping festival that takes place on a 700-acre farm in Manchester focusing on indie and alternative music.
This year's lineup features Lizzo, Foo Fighters, Tyler, the Creator, and other interactive experiences, like comedy shows, art installations, and wellness activities.
4. Electric Forest - Rothbury, MI
For a one-of-a-kind music festival experience, head to Electric Forest. The festival features art installations, performers, and electrifying music in the Michigan wilderness. This year's lineup includes Alison Wonderland, The String Cheese Incident, and Louis the Child.
3. Outside Lands - San Francisco, CA
This festival in Golden Gate Park features an eclectic lineup of music, comedy, and culinary experiences. With performers like Tame Impala, J Balvin, and Kehlani, it's unsurprising that Outside Lands is a favorite among locals and visitors. Along with a wonderful mission focusing on sustainability.
2. Newport Folk Festival - Newport, RI
If you're a fan of folk music, the Newport Folk Festival is the place to be this summer. From July 23 to 28, the festival features artists like Jeff Tweedy, Sheryl Crow, and Jade Bird, in addition to panels and workshops discussing the history of folk music.
1. Lollapalooza - Chicago, IL
Starting our list with one of the biggest and most iconic festivals is Lollapalooza, which has been going strong since the early 90s. This year's lineup includes Miley Cyrus, Tyler the Creator, Foo Fighters, and Post Malone.
Lollapalooza also features the city's best local restaurants, food trucks, and craft beer.
Beyond US Festivals
These US festivals are amazing – and sell out (or close)! So, they don’t fit the mold for seat fillers.
However, members OTL Seat Fillers reserve free pairs of tickets to other shows and events. So, make this summer memorable with these unique experiences happening around the states, whether you’re up for US festivals or something more low key!
