Music Festivals

Best EDM Music Festivals in Australia

Missing concert-hopping as winter sets in and takes over? Swap in the snow boots and parka for sandals and a crop-top because it’s time to head down-under for a taste of the best EDM music festivals on offer under summery Australian skies.

Strawberry Fields (Tocumwal, New South Wales ) – November

Yes, the Beatles might have had your mom swooning with ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’, but I promise you this Strawberry Fields will get you twice as hyped and definitely leave you feeling a lot more content as opposed to forlorn – sorry Lennon, but it’s true. Venture into the Australian bush to experience this heart-warming explosion of creative talent, with everything ranging from magnificent live performances and interactive art installations to fun workshops and exciting market stalls to explore. Enjoy mesmerizing sets from world-class acts such as Octo Octa, Eris Drew and Leon Vynehall. You’ll want to stay in Strawberry Fields forever, I promise.

Festival X Australia (Brisbane + Sydney + Melbourne) – November

With its stunning 2019 debut, Festival X effortlessly established itself as a giant in the Aussie EDM scene. Spanning over three cities and three days, this music festival’s as fresh as it is new and has its heart set on outdoing itself with each and every installment. I mean, how can you pass up on the opportunity to dance the night day away to the likes of Vini Vici, Lil Pump, and Armin van Buuren as the sun showers you in warm kisses? You’re in for a good day, mate!

Ultra Australia (Sydney + Melbourne) – March

As emperor of the world of EDM, Ultra has successfully extended its reign to include the lovely land of ’stralia so be prepared to indulge in the top-quality production, edgy sets and stellar line-up that this brand has grown synonymous with. Gracing not one but two of the nation’s most prominent urban landscapes, Ultra Australia is guaranteed to sweep you off your feet like a musical Prince Charming. With global sensations like Zedd, Luciano, and Marshmello headlining the event, you bet it’s going to be an ultra-smashing rave experience.

Rainbow Serpent Festival (Lexton, Victoria) – January

Welcoming EDM enthusiasts, hippies and art junkies alike, Rainbow Serpent Festival definitely lives up to its lovely, wacky name. Here you’ll find new artists to fall in love with like Megapixel, Kodiak Kid, and Remedy II, and a delectable selection of local food stalls and artworks to marvel at. Around since the ‘90s, Rainbow Serpent has really retained a lot of its old-school charm without compromising on keeping up with the (musical) times, as is evident from their jaw-dropping sets and sheer variety of vibrant performances to choose from. So follow the rainbow and you might just strike gold with this festival: a celebration of life and art like no other!

Electric Gardens Festival ( Adelaide + Melbourne + Sydney + Perth) – January

Electric Gardens Festival proves to be the true embodiment of the phrase “go big or go home”, capturing that element of amusement-park excitement and combining it with concert extravagance in an all-in-one treat for the senses. With elaborately done up indoor and outdoor stages to rotate between, you’ll be giddy with joy at this stunning music festival as the endless dance floor is brought to life with show-stopping performances by musical powerhouses like Alan Fitzpatrick, and What So Not. Whether you choose to hop on a thrilling show ride or get your brows bedazzled at the Brow Bar, there’s never a dull moment at this eclectic festival!

If you’re feeling a little under the weather, it’s time for a trip down-under! To maintain your tan year-round, get tickets to your favorite Aussie festivals right here.  

Guide to EDC Las Vegas Stages

With up to 10 different stages on any given night, EDC Las Vegas has something for everyone. Whether you’re into dubstep, trap, deep house, techno, trance, progressive, tech house, or big room house – you’ll certainly find something to float your boat at EDC. Each of the stages tend to have a certain “theme” and feature artists with similar sounds.

For more coverage on EDC Las Vegas check out our guide to EDC.

Here is the musical breakdown of each of the EDC stages:

kineticFIELD

Kinetic Field is often referred to as EDC’s “Main Stage” where you can go to see the bigger mainstream artists. DJ’s like Tiesto, Marshmello, Alesso, Dash Berlin, and Calvin Harris have performed here in the recent past.

Because of its unmistakably enormous size, and general musical appeal, this is also the biggest production. From nonstop pyrotechnics and fireworks, to water features and dozens of insane-quality speakers, the Kinetic Field is nothing short of spectacular. Thousands of people can (and do) enjoy this absolutely massive and energetic stage at any hour of the night.

If all that isn’t enough for you, this stage has tons of dancers and performers. If you’re into costumes and production effects, this is definitely one area of EDC that you should check out at least once. Special guests have routinely surprised festival goers here too. Bryan Cranston (Walter White from Breaking Bad) pushed the button during Above and Beyond’s set, and hip hop duo Rae Sremmurd made an appearance for Afrojack.

TL;DR – If you like festival house, trap, popular EDM tracks, and seriously BIG productions, you’ll love Kinetic Field.

cosmicMEADOW

Upon entry to EDC Las Vegas, the very first of the EDC stages you’ll probably see coming down the bleachers is Cosmic Meadow. Like it’s big sibling Kinetic, the Cosmic Meadow is also very production-heavy. All genres of EDM in Las Vegas have visited here: from house, to techno, to hip hop, to rock. However, this stage is typically known for trap artists, dubstep, bass music, and chill tracks.

As the name might suggest, this stage is the only one to open out to a wonderful, open grassy area. It is on this “meadow” that we’ve seen rave-goers sitting, napping, dancing, giving light shows, or simply cooling down and relaxing. After all, lying on real grass after dancing for hours in 90-100 degree Vegas weather is a much appreciated feature of this festival. The grass typically always has open areas to the sides, and directly faces the speedway’s bleachers, so it’s ideal for being able to listen to the music without being smashed in a tight crowd (we’re talking to you introverts out there ;P ).

That’s not to say that this stage is boring though. In the pasts, artists like Flosstradamus, Illenium, K?D, Porter Robinson, Slushii, and San Holo have performed here. And in addition to the killer music, the Cosmic Meadow provides a variety of beautiful light features and illuminated decorations throughout the football-field size area.

If, somehow, you entered EDC without seeing this beautiful stage, we highly recommend checking it out (especially if you need a place to rest). If you’re here long enough, you may even see special guests. In 2017, G-Eazy made a surprise visit during Jauz’s set.

TL;DR – If you like open space, cool grass, and trap music, definitely check out a few sets at Costmic Meadow.

circuitGROUNDS

The beloved and entrancing Circuit Grounds is one of the most visually appealing stages. Not only is it typically one of the largest EDC stages, it’s all about the technology.

This stage has truly amazing lightwork and design, and it is here that you’ll typically find the latest LED tech really has to offer. In the past we’ve seen rotating LED screens, moving ceilings, trippy all-encompassing side panel screens, and of course bright, piercing laser effects that’ll make you lose your mind (in the best way possible!)

The stage often holds progressive house and trance artists, and a huge variety of artists will show up. In the past Circuit Grounds has showcased cherished artists including Above & Beyond, Alan Walker, and Zedd. Special guests to pop up here as well, with Lil Jon appearing on stage with Flosstradamus in 2017.

TL;DR – Both progressive trance music lovers and LED fanatics alike will never be disappointed with this stage. And if you happen to also have a pair of diffraction glasses or kaleidoscope goggles, this is definitely one part of the festival you’ll need to hit up.

neonGarden

Of all the EDC stages, Neon Garden showcases a completely different vibe than the others. Neon Garden mainly holds pure house and techno DJ’s. Because of this, EDC founder, Pasquale, has said it is the festival’s tribute to the origin of EDM. If there are any underground sounds at EDC, they would be at Neon Garden. It’s always amazing inside this area and definitely easy to zone out.

The structure itself is a smaller setup, full of low-lights and the occasional smooth laser show. It is always a gorgeous setup and often attracts a great mix of people from all ages.

From the eerie beats of Green Velvet, to techno legend Adam Beyer, we guarantee that if you like house and techno, you’ll fall in love with Neon Garden. Even if you’re not a fan of techno, this stage embraces a consistent mood with subtle changes that invite anyone passing by to shuffle their feet.

TL;DR – With its catchy house vibes and entrancing techno music, Neon Garden has remained a welcomed alternative to the festival’s modern EDM styles.

bassPOD

As the name might suggest, Bass Pod is dedicated to the bass music sub-genres of D&B (Drum and Bass) and Dubstep. Hosted by the Bassrush team, this stage has been known in the past for its iconic pyrotechnic robot pods. However, EDC 2017 was the last appearance of this design so we can look forward to a whole new concept in 2018.

Most EDC stages have their own special element that makes them stand out. Bass Pod’s element is its power. The insane amount of power put into this stage for the sound and effects is known to be nothing short of sensational. Blowing out fire (and speakers!) seems to be somewhat of a favorite pass-time for this stage.

On top of the intense sound system, special guests like Drake have made their way to this stage for Metro Boomin’s set. Despite its tendency to get a bit wild, we’ve found ourselves gravitating towards this particular stage more and more over the years. They must be doing something right 😉

TL;DR – If headbanging to bass-heavy sets, and hardcore drops are your jam, Bass Pod is a must see for you!

wasteLAND

Wasteland is not for the faint of heart, nor for those low on energy. This Basscon-hosted stage is dedicated to all the hard style of dance music. And of all the EDC stages, we’re pretty sure this one has never played music below 150BPM. If you can manage to get to the front of the crowd during any Hardstyle song, prepare to have your entire body vibrating with bass and energy. It truly is a rush.

If the music isn’t intense enough for you, the stage presentation and the crowd should be. Wasteland captures a typically post-apocalyptic concept, so fire effects are pretty much always a must – as is literally anything that screams intensity.

Wasteland has been home to some of the biggest names in Hardstyle at EDC, including euphoric hardstyle artist, Brennan Heart, and the “Godfather of Hardstyle,” The Prophet. With its super high energy and fast-paced tracks, it’s definitely worth checking out.

TL;DR – Whether you’re a fan of hard style, thrilling set productions, or the kind of loud music that sucks you in and rattles your brain, Wasteland is going to win your hardcore little heart over.

quantumVALLEY

The genre of Trance music is one of the oldest in electronic music and truly embodies the original PLUR movement. This goes without saying then, that trance’s fan base is huge – and growing. It is precisely for this dedicated and ever-present group of fans that Pasquale created this 8th stage at EDC.

Quantum Valley, hosted by Dreamstate, provides EDM lovers with the chance to connect to the spirit of Peace, Love, Unity, Respect (and Responsibility). In our opinion, this is the beauty of the new stage’s concept. From Psytrance to Hard trance, if you’re looking for your own particular style, it’s probably here. It’s also here that you’re likely to find many of your more underground sounds.

Like its older cousin Circuit Grounds, Quantum Valley provides nothing short of a spectacular light show. Artists like Gareth Emery, Dash Berlin, Armin van Buuren, and Markus Schulz have helped make this stage the mesmerizing and, dare we say it, en-TRANCE-ing production that it is. No matter the subgenre you’re interested in, there’s likely a trance set for you here.

TL;DR – Trance lovers unite at Quantum Valley. If you’re a fan of Dreamstate, you’ll fall in love with this stage as much as we did.

stereoBLOOM

Take in the various shades of the dance music genre, from house to tech house to bass music and beyond. Curated by the ever-growing family at Insomniac Music Group, stereoBLOOM offers up sounds from known artists and up-and-comers alike.

Art Cars (Moving Stages)

From glowing buggies to massive party ships, these mobile sound systems can be found roaming the Speedway, broadcasting all forms of dance music. Go exploring, and you might catch a special DJ set!

Best EDM Festivals in South America

Tired of blowing bucketloads on EDM festivals? Fret not, because a slew of wallet-friendly South American options await you. You shouldn’t have to choose between an Insta-worthy getaway and a rave to remember –  and thankfully now you don’t have to!

Storyland  (Santa Marta, Colombia) – January

Does soaking up the Caribbean sun over at the undeniably gorgeous port town of Santa Marta, Colombia’s national treasure, sound like an ideal vacation? Well, I assure you that as one of the wildest EDM festivals in the region, Storyland will prove to be the icing on the cake of your Caribbean dreams so kick off the year on the right note this January. Performances by dance music titans like Don Diablo, Agents of Time, and Cedric Gervais, when coupled with the show-stopping production is sure to get your hips moving like Shakira’s (yet another Colombian national treasure). A word from the wise? Don’t miss out on the legendary beach parties leading up to this star-studded musical bonanza if you want the full experience! 

Universo Parallelo (Bahia, Brazil) – December

Universo Paralello festival 2020 in Praia de Pratigi – Bahia ...

No one parties with quite as much gusto and finesse as Brazilians, so it’s really no surprise that Universo Parallelo has quickly made its mark as the third largest psytrance festival in the whole world. Unfolding in the magical oasis of beachy Bahia at the end of the year, Universo Parallelo is a hippie-dippie paradise boasting a mighty line-up featuring edgy acts like Lunatica, Rinkadink, and Mad Tribe. With stunning carnival-inspired sets and a ton of funky new music to discover, you’ll be wanting to relive these 9 days of pure euphoria again and again! As far as parallel universes go, this one’s sure to make it to your good books.

Asuncionico ( Asuncion, Paraguay) – March

Fancy a trip to Paraguay? Well, now you sure will because the country’s biggest music festival Asuncionico is calling your name! Held in the vibrant capital of Asuncion in March, this blockbuster event doubles as the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the historical epicenter of this landlocked marvel of a nation. With tickets selling at a wildly affordable rate, you’ll be able to comfortably rock it out to international musical powerhouses like Interpol, Martin Garrix, and The Killers and still be able to squeeze in some fun adventures around the city without going over your budget.

Lollapalooza Chile ( Santiago, Chile) – March

Lollapalooza shares 2019, Chile, Argentina, Brasil lineups ...

Yes Lollapalooza is an EDM staple, but have you been to the one in Chile yet? Gracing Santiago’s O’Higgins Park with memorable performances, rock and indie giants like Foo Fighters, Kanye West, Foster the People, and Travis Scott have found themselves at home on the extravagant sets of Lollapalooza’s Latin American installment. This music festival has also catapulted homegrown talent like Chico Trujillo and Los Bunkers into international acclaim, elegantly reminding the world that Chile is a timeless cultural and musical hub that deserves more recognition. It’s bound to warm up even the Chile-st of hearts this March!

XXXperience (Sao Paolo, Brazil) – September

With a name as bold as its experimental themes, XXXperience has effortlessly held onto the crown of Brazil’s largest dance music festival for almost three decades! Held every September in Itu, a tourist hotspot in Sao Paulo, XXXperience has managed to redefine EDM music and its performance. With an incredible lineup showcasing international talent in the form of iconic artists like Oliver Heldens, Astrix, and ARTBAT, this music festival is famed for embracing a diverse range of genres like techno, house, and trance. Trust Brazil to throw an unforgettable party! Pack for the trip of a lifetime because you’re about to ex(xx)perience a taste of true musical genius.

 Ultra Buenos Aires (Buenos Aires, Argentina) – March

Ultra’s South American installation rightly proves that everything’s better down South. Tripling in size since its birth in 2012, this open-air EDM festival attracts fans from around the globe to Buenos Aires, the epicenter of Argentinian arts and culture. With big names like Alan Fitzpatrick, Firebeatz and Knife Party at the helm of this mind-blowingly fantastic display of lights and sound, you need to book your tickets Argent-ly!

Rio Music Carnival (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) – February

Much to the avid raver’s dismay, February rarely gets much EDM action. But fret not, for Rio Music Carnival is here to brighten up this dull month and transform it into your favorite time of year! Coinciding with Brazil’s illustrious carnival, this music festival breathes new life into the city with its mesmerizing buffet of extravagant floats, jazzed-up dancers and funky new sounds that’ll get you groovin’ from dusk till dawn. Enjoy captivating live performances by Timmy Trumpet, Nervo, Loud Luxury and other musical powerhouses. Kiss goodbye to sleep because this city-wide party is right out of a dream!

Estero Picnic (Bogota, Colombia) – March

Colombia earns its place on the world EDM map with Estero Picnic – a music festival that doubles as a full-fledged carnival, you know, in classic Latin American fashion. Presenting a delightful array of parties, make-shift bars, and delectable food options to indulge in alongside unforgettable performances by evergreen acts of great caliber like Calvin Harris, Florence + the Machine, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. And when your ears start to ring, take a leisurely stroll through the eccentric “Hippie Market” to unwind. Estero Picnic’s really a treat for the senses.

Electric Daisy Carnival Brasil (Sao Paolo , Brazil) – December

Whisking one of America’s oldest and largest EDM events off to the heart of Brazil proved to be a wise move because Electric Daisy Carnival Brasil has quickly become a crowd-favorite since its debut in 2015. From elaborate firework displays to full-scale carnival rides, this music festival sets itself apart from the rest in terms of sheer scale and variety of attractions. If the interactive art installations don’t win you over, then the presence of class acts like Dirtyphonics, R3HAB and Excision definitely will.

Lollapalooza Brasil (Sao Paolo, Brazil) – December

For yet another reason to hit up Sao Paolo this winter, check out Lollapalooza Brasil: the perfect combination of internationally-acclaimed superstars and a taste of up and coming Brazilian talent for the hungriest of EDM lovers to wolf down. If you love the musical diversity and welcoming atmosphere of Lollapalooza up in Chicago but also crave a change of scene, this is going to become a quick favorite for you. Let The Fever 333, Portugal The Man, Autoramas, and MAZ guide you through nights of pure euphoria as you fall in love with this beautiful, lively city.

Lollapalooza Argentina ( Buenos Aires, Argentina) – March

Use this Spring to complete your Lollapalooza bucket-list with this wacky edition of the Chicago staple. Get ready to dance your feet off to an EDM-heavy lineup featuring musical royalty like Steve Aoki, Interpol and ROSALIA as the cool Argentinian fall breeze gently kisses your cheek. Head over to Buenos Aires at your own risk though, because you’ll have a real hard time saying goodbye. But if you do go, it’s sure to be a love affair for the books because you’re in for a very bueno time!

In a rush to book those tickets? No worries, we gotchu!

10 Most Essential Tips for Your First Music Festival

Bought tickets to Coachella in a moment of (possibly drunken) weakness with your friends? Never been to a music festival and have no idea what to expect? Don’t worry, we – your EDM guardian angels – are here to assuage all your fears and ensure that you go in prepared to have the time of your life.

1. Choose Comfy Kicks

Yes, I know you’ve been planning your rave look(s) for months but hear me out here: you can have a fire outfit without wearing shoes that double as mini daggers for your toes. Music festivals are usually pretty generously spread out and always jam-packed so you want to wear comfortable footwear to take on the crowds and to run from the stage to the porta-potties and back without twisting your ankle. Sneakers or sturdy sandals are the best way to go, so ladies, please leave those killer heels at home. And if you’re seriously worried about comfortable footwear blah-ing down your look, then just go out a pair of plain white Converse and jazz them up with your trusty old Sharpies. Turns out comfort and fashion can co-exist peacefully after all. 

2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Dehydration is a bummer anywhere, but it’s a real vibe-killer at music festivals. Without any good ole H20 in your system you’re going to start feeling dizzy and really what’s the point of driving over to Vegas to catch Electric Daisy Carnival if you have to spend most of it passed out in the medical tent? Since bottled water costs an arm and a leg at most music festivals, take advantage of the free water refill stations and come armed with your own bottle! Carry a sleek hydropack or a flask that you can easily top up because you’re going to want to keep your fluids up when Alesso hits the stage so you can tear up the dance floor with the moves you’ve been practicing in your bedroom all summer. 

3. Get There Early!

However tempting it may appear to take that random detour on your way to Lollapalooza, I suggest you hold off on the tenth pee and snack break if you want to get there on time. Arrive with some time to spare so that you can get a good feel of the venue and familiarize yourself with the place before it fills up with enthusiastic ravers. Remember, the early bird catches the worm best spot to do the worm! But if you want a chance at making any new EDM buddies – or leaving with your dignity intact – I’d advise you to save that move for dares.

4. Come Armed With A Portable Charger

Having your phone dying on you when you’re fumbling through the dark on your way back to the tents is something I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. Think ahead and toss in a (preferably fully-charged) portable charger into your fanny pack so that along with your own, you can make sure you keep your phone’s energy up too. Since your phone’s your main medium of communication with your group – and the world beyond – try to conserve your battery as much as possible, even if you have a charger at hand. Focus on making memories, not documenting them on Snapchat and then maybe, just maybe, you have a shot at making it out without a dead phone.

5. Layer Up

The key thing to keep in mind when planning your outfit weeks and months in advance, is that layering is your friend. Yes, even if you’re headed to Coachella, in the heart of sunny California, you’d want to make sure that your clothing equips you to deal with any fluctuations in temperature that may be thrown your way. Remember that a lot of music festivals can go from being unbearably hot to teeth-chatteringly chilly in a matter of moments come sundown, so you want to stack up on those layers if you want to be able to travel light. I’d suggest working in a cute sweatshirt into your look so that you can take it off or leave it on as and when you need whilst keeping the aesthetic intact.

6. Carry Cash, Not Cards

While it may seem counterintuitive to carry cash to a music festival, I assure you that it’s a smart move because a lot of the food stalls and such may not be keen on taking credit card payments… and you really don’t want to go the night hungry now, do you? Rather than running the risk of losing your credit card out there on the chaotic mess that is the dance floor, stash some money in your beloved fanny pack. Take it a step further by distributing your cash amongst your belongings – pockets, beneath the sole of your shoes, in your phone cover, etc. – so that even if you drop a tenner from one hiding spot, you still have a couple more to count on.

7. Plan Ahead, Get Ahead

Music festivals are blockbuster events with star-studded line-ups, so it’s natural that a lot of performances will overlap or unfold parallelly. To save yourself a panic attack about picking between DJ Snake and Hardwell, get a hold of the festival schedule well in advance so you can comb through it and decide which ones you plan to attend. If you and your pals have different music tastes then have everyone circle out what they want to do so there’s no confusion later on. Obviously you can’t plan out the whole weekend – and that’s the fun of it – but the things you can account for, you should. 

8. Fix a Meeting Spot for the Squad

It’s totally cool if you want to split up from your friends and catch a couple performances alone because hey, it’s not every day that you get to see Afrojack live. But if you want to save yourself a tearful half an hour of struggling to track down your crew, make sure that you’ve decided on a meeting spot before you part ways. By setting a simple meeting time and place ahead of time, you will be able to reunite successfully no matter how many working phones you might have between the six of you.

9. Stock up on Snacks

Showing up to a music festival on a hungry stomach is a rookie mistake. Eat a full meal before you arrive so that the fatigue doesn’t kick in while the night is still young. And while we’re on the subject of food, make sure that you also pack a couple of quick snacks into your fanny pack to munch on when you’re feeling hangry out there. Be smart about what you bring – skip the fresh sandwiches for something that’s a little more dry and mess-free. Whether it be a pack of gummies, a protein bar or some beef jerky – a tasty energy-booster will tide you through those bouts of hunger when you don’t want to miss a performance lining up for some overpriced tacos.

10.  Keep an Open Mind

If music festivals came with a universal motto, it would definitely be ‘carpe diem’. You’re likely to run into all kinds of people here so it doubles as a fun opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals too. Stay flexible and keep an open mind because if you’re a music festival newbie, chances are you’ll see – and experience – a lot of new things that might take you by surprise. That being said, I know that peer pressure gets to the best of us, but make sure to draw the line if at any point you feel uncomfortable.

Feelin’ ready to take on your first music festival? Grab tickets here.

Best EDM Festivals in USA

Wondering where to begin your EDM trail this year? Don’t leave these iconic music festivals off your list!

Electric Daisy Carnival (Las Vegas, Nevada) – May

In case you needed yet another reason to visit Vegas – seriously? – here’s Electric Daisy Carnival! Every summer EDC offers up a harmonious blend of innovative technology and artistic genius with stunning sets and art installations for ravers to enjoy – I mean just look at that captivating explosion of color on stage! Stretching out over five days, it invites big names from all around the globe like Snakehips, Virtual Riot, and Tiesto to bring America’s largest dance party to life. You know what they say – what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas immortalized on the ’gram forever!

Also Read: EDM Clubs Las Vegas

Miami Music Week (Miami, Florida) – March

Move over D.C, every rave-enthusiast knows that Miami’s the real (party) capital of the country, so it’s no surprise that Miami Music Week provides the heartbeat of the American EDM scene. From Afrojack and David Guetta to Above & Beyond and Disclosure – watch the who’s-who of the musical community come together this March to have you falling in love with EDM all over again. With a weeklong string of blockbuster pool parties, nightclub after-parties, and beach raves leading up to the legendary three-day Ultra Music Festival, get ready to sign up for the most immersive and entertaining musical experience of your life!

Hard Summer (Los Angeles, California) – August

Whether you’re having a rough summer or just having a hard time kissing it goodbye, Hard Summer Music Festival is guaranteed to cheer you right up. I mean, what better way to kickstart Fall than with jaw-dropping performances by your favorite EDM idols like Marshmello, Diplo and Travis Scott while partying it up in the City of Angeles and homeland of Hollywood? Even if you don’t run into any film stars, you’re sure to feel like one yourself at this gloriously extravagant event.

Governors Ball (New York City, New York) – June

Ever imagined yourself as a princess at a ball? Well why settle for princess when you can transform into a rave queen this summer at Randall’s Island attending the Governors Ball Music Festival, dancing with the breathtaking New York skyline as your backdrop? Watch Randall’s Island come to life with an array of show-stopping performances by fan favorites like Galantis, Wolf Alice and Flume, while you make memories to treasure for a lifetime. With some of New York’s best food trucks and interactive art installations to indulge in as well, I bet you’ll have a ball at Gov-Ball!  

Imagine Music Festival (Atlanta, Georgia) – September

The pride and joy of Georgia, Imagine Festival is renowned for showcasing a wide range of genres such as dubstep, techno, and house, and hence guaranteed to make a die-hard fan out of you. And with the likes of Marshmello, KSHMR, and Zeds Dead gracing the stage, there’s no doubt that it passes the vibe-check either! Boasting a recent upgrade in accessibility, capacity and prestige, this killer musical showstopper has relocated to Chattahoochee Hills to accommodate its exponential growth in attendees. Numbers don’t lie, so instead of Imagin(e)ing yourself livin’ it up in Georgia, come join in the fun this September instead!

Coachella (Coachella Valley, California) – April

Love it or hate it, you’ve got to admit that no music festival list is complete without Coachella, the mother of all music festivals! Over the years, this Californian Valley-grown musical bonanza has become synonymous with rave culture so it’s no surprise that it features a delectable buffet of EDM performances every April. Flume, Whipped Cream, Calvin Harris, SLANDER, Masego – there’s a pretty high chance that your EDM idol is going to be tearing up the stage at Coachella, so really it would be like, sooo uncool* of you to not make it.

*Valley-girl accent recommended but not required for entry.

Movement Festival (Detroit, Michigan) – May

For a Memorial day weekend that’s truly memorable, head over to Detroit because Movement Festival will spice things right up. Find a slew of new artists to obsess over like Testpilot, Hotwaxx Hale, DJ Seinfeld and LADYMONIX while putting your best moves on display on the dance floor. Revered as the birthplace of techno, Detroit sure knows its EDM and is guaranteed to make you fall in love with the genre all over again.

Pitchfork Music Festival (Chicago, Illinois) – July

Unfolding in Chicago’s famous Union Park, Pitchfork Music Festival’s successfully made its name as a true game-changer for EDM fans around the nation. With musical titans like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Thundercat, and Tame Impala taking the stage by storm, you can be assured that it’ll be a summer road-trip to remember. I mean with a name like that you know you’ll be raising hell at this brilliantly edgy music festival!

So throw your hands up, they’re playing your song, you know it’s gonna be okay… hit us up to plan a Party in the USA!

Beyond Wonderland (San Bernardino, California) – March

Nothing screams spring quite like a lovely road trip to SoCal with a musical bonanza to indulge in at the end. Every bit as promising as its name, Beyond Wonderland really delivers on all your EDM fantasies with a star-studded lineup featuring Snakehips, Nitro Fun, Major Lazer and Deadly Guns, along with world-class production and stunning sets to light up the night sky as well as every raver’s face. I promise, Beyond Wonderland will leave you beyond wowed!

Ultra Music Festival ( Miami, Florida ) – March

You can’t really call yourself a raver till you’ve woken up in Miami wondering how on earth you’re still alive after a mad weekend of hard partying. Since its birth in 1999, Ultra Music Festival has come to be synonymous with rave culture and established itself as the place to be for EDM enthusiasts and spring-breakers alike come March. And it’s really no surprise that Miami’s Bayfront Park gets ultra-packed with upwards of 165,000 fans every year once you’ve eyed this insanely star-studded line-up: I’m talking Flume, Major Lazer, Above & Beyond, and Kygo all under the same roof.

Electric Zoo (NYC, New York) – March

From the depths of the Big Apple’s concrete jungle we bring you the Electric Zoo – one of the East Coast’s most premier dance music festivals to ever exist! Set against the iconic backdrop of Manhattan, it serves up an exquisite offering of some of the finest artists specializing in dubstep, techno and house. Let the likes of Claptone, The Black Madonna, and Bassnectar blow your mind as you fall in love with this incredible city and the wacky sets on display. And ditch the chicken dance for some king-of-the-jungle worthy moves because it’s about to get wild up in here!

Lollapalooza ( Chicago, Illinois ) – August

Consider your first visit to Lollapalooza a musical baptism of sorts, because until you’ve partied it out at this bangin’ festival, you’re still an EDM – and concert – newbie. Welcoming your favorite internationally-acclaimed acts from every corner of the world, Lollapalooza solidifies the Windy City’s reputation as a true cultural hotspot and a must-visit for anyone with an artistic bone in their body. Dance the weekend away to legends like Travis Scott, ODESZA, Tame Impala, 21 Savage and literally every artist on your hype playlist on Spotify. I mean Lollapalooza’s been calling your name for years; isn’t it time you finally gave in?

Dreamstate SoCal (San Bernardino, California) –  November

Doing some California dreamin’ lately? Well then it’s definitely time to grab tickets to this funky music festival unfolding in the heart of SoCal. As one of the most iconic trance music festivals on the West Coast, Dreamstate is guaranteed to leave you entranced. With class acts like Perfect Stranger, Fables, REALITY TEST and Ace Ventura to groove to, it’ll be difficult to snap out of this dream-state!

Electric Forest (Rothbury, Michigan) – June

Make sure to work Rothbury into your Summer road-trip route because you don’t want to miss out on the magical madness unfolding at Electric Forest! And gear up for a spot of camping – wayy more fun than your girl scout days – because there’s no sleeping at this party. If the absurd and the odd are what you crave, then this unique band-centric festival is definitely going to be your cup of tea. Prepare for a thrilling explosion of funky new sounds and captivating colours. Groove along to stunning performances by Disco Biscuits, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Petit Biscuit and more equally eccentric acts that’ll have you hoping, unlike Taylor Swift, that you aren’t out of the woods  forest yet.

Paradiso Festival ( Quincy, Washington) – June

Unlike Phil Collins, you won’t have to resort to imagining  “another day for you and me in Paradise” because the mother of EDM music festivals, the legendary Paradiso awaits a visit from you this Summer. Yes, that’s right – Paradiso made history as the “largest EDM event ever held in the Pacific Northwest” back in 2012 and has since made its mark as a musical giant to watch out for. With a line-up boasting a perfect mixture of well-loved and edgy artists, this music festival welcomes powerhouses like What So Not, Slumberjack, Moon Boots, and Louis The Child. And what’s more – this festival doubles as the perfect opportunity to do a little camping with your friends too. So be sure to mark your calendars for a date with paradis(o) this June! 

So throw your hands up, they’re playing your song, you know it’s gonna be okay… hit us up to plan a Party in the USA!

Rolling Loud Festival European Debut Set for Portugal in 2021

The Rolling Loud Festival will now make its European debut in July 2021 when it touches down in Portugal at Praia da Rocha Beach in Portimão, organizers announced on Tuesday (July 28).

The inaugural overseas edition was originally set to take place in July 2020, but has been rescheduled to July 6-8, 2021 due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The 2021 edition will feature headlining slots from original headliners ASAP Rocky, Future and Wiz Khalifa.

A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, Chief Keef, DaBaby, Lil Durk and Lil Keed will also make appearances.

Pre-sale kicks off Thursday (July 30) at 9:00 a.m. GMT, with general on-sale beginning Friday (July 31) at 9:00 a.m. GMT. Learn more here.

Asia EDM – 亚洲最佳EDM音乐节

希望您可以在今年冬天保持甜美的夏季棕褐色而不是冻结脚趾吗? 别担心,因为亚洲以其众多的热带海滩,全年的比基尼天气以及您遇到过的一些最独特的EDM音乐节来恭候您的光临。 认真地打包!

It’s The Ship

曾经在船上连续参加一个星期吗? 好吧,是时候改变这个十一月了! 亚洲最大的海上音乐节“乘船游览”将巡游者带上了一个似乎难忘的节日,同时将他们带到了东南亚一些最热门的旅游目的地–云顶,普吉岛。 在午夜时分炮弹到广阔的游泳池中,欣赏古怪而出色的艺术家(如Hot Dub Time Machine,Chocolate Puma和Moksi)的现场表演。 而且,如果您需要从聚会中休息一下,您可以随时手持含羞草前往这艘豪华游轮的甲板上享受日光浴,因为这是EDM的节日暨假期。 在主题派对和豪华餐厅中,The Ship绝对不会沉闷!

Electric Daisy Carnival Japan

您可能参与了直到太阳升起,但是您是否曾经参加过冉冉升起的太阳? 是您来日本拜访的时候了,因为电动雏菊嘉年华会呼唤您的名字! EDC装置遍布Zozo海洋体育场和Makuhari海滩公园,以提供出色的狂欢体验而著称,日本的热情款待和丰富的当地街头小吃为现场提供了狂野的体验,超过80,000名国际EDM爱好者可以在现场获得。 而且由于它是在5月中旬举行的,所以在主要热浪袭来之前,您可以与ARTBAT,Major Lazer,Vini Vici和Camelphat交流,而不必融化。

Sunburn Festival

如果说Sunburn早在他的时代,那我肯定哥伦布一定会设法将灯光跟随到次大陆,因为这个音乐节尽其所能! Sunburn自豪地赢得了亚洲最大的音乐节的称号,出席人数已超过35万人,拥有先进的音响系统,吸引了来自全球的与会者。 Sunburn音乐节通常在印度聚会之都果阿的Decemeber举行,它以真正多样化的阵容让您摆脱日常生活中的各种烦恼,这一定会让您叹为观止。 从大名鼎鼎的The Chainsmokers和DJ Snake到新兴的音乐大师,如Laughing Buddha和Designer Hippies,每个人都可以在这里找到一杯龙舌兰酒。

Ultra Korea

如果在亚洲最具标志性的城市目的地之一的背景下向DJ Snake,Afrojack和The Martinez Brothers靠拢,听起来对您来说是个暑假,那么这就是您的音乐节! 凭借高质量的制作和适合国王使用的特殊效果,今年6月将在Ultra Korea走进EDM天堂。 很简单:花上一整天的时间,前往Ultra首尔! 快速-喝一口浓烈的烧酒,然后跳上舞池。

Epizode Festival

想摆脱都市生活的喧嚣,但不想放弃聚会? 在新年前夜,跳上越南南部富国岛的阳光普照的海岸,享受无与伦比的EDM魅力。 享誉全球的艺术家从世界的每个角落涌入,以装饰其性感的月光下的舞台,Epizode会让您进一步爱上该类型。 在亚洲EDM领域中寻找DOTT,Zig Zach,Hibiya Line和其他领先者,同时欣赏Lilly Palmer和William Djoko等粉丝最喜欢的外观。 经过两周的夜晚在这片天堂中跳舞之后,您将不愿将航班带回家。

808 Festival

我敢打赌,真正的文化热点曼谷已经在您的旅行清单中。 如果不是,那么808 Festival一定会让您真正改变主意! 808是世界上最具创新性和最令人兴奋的电子音乐节之一,在2013年成立三年内,其808万的观众人数就翻了两番,并吸引了超过15,000名游客,并继续赢得了全世界狂热爱好者的青睐。 每年12月在Napakorn和Ninegod等充满活力的新本地演出以及Steve Aoki,Zedd和Skrillex等国际经典电影之间取得完美的平衡。

Sonar Hong Kong

每年4月,Sonar香港以其为非洲大陆最杰出的城市景观之一,是一个EDM节,完美地体现了其所在城市的进步和折衷性质。除了展示史诗般的EDM精英阵容如Thundercat和John 塔拉伯特Talabot这个节日以引人入胜的虚拟现实装置和融入表演的互动艺术展品而为与会者提供技术前沿的体验而自豪。 如果想在经典狂欢中焕然一新,那就来香港吧!

Electrical Daisy Carnival Korea

如果您热衷于听音乐,那么首尔就是答案! 即使您去过美国的EDC,我也可以保证,EDC韩国将其华丽的场景,令人赞叹的景点和享誉国际的艺术家的独特融合震撼您。 EDC Korea提供一种独一无二的主题公园风格体验,让冒险迷真正地将乘坐过山车的快感与鸡皮b相结合,期待看到您喜欢的EDM偶像,如Alesso和KSHMR。 这个令人难以置信的音乐节于8月底举行,被证明是亲吻夏天的再见并在秋天响起的最佳方式。

Electric Daisy Carnival Guangdong

作为EDC的最新投资项目之一,广东版由于其华丽的烟火表演和逐年提供多感官,沉浸式体验的能力而迅速成为粉丝的最爱。 中国广东省宏伟的长隆国际海洋旅游度假区已转变成电影般的背景,每年11月都会为您带来难忘的EDM之旅。 像Yellow Claw和Marshmello一样疯狂和古怪的车顶篷,您知道自己会度过美好的时光!

Ultra Japan

有什么比让VIP参加星光熠熠的Ultra活动更好? 当然,为什么要让VIP进入日本星光熠熠的Ultra活动! 一边欣赏着The Chainsmokers,ILLENIUM或Gud Vibrations的节拍,一边在这个光彩夺目的音乐盛宴上演绎一些九月中旬的魔法,与您在这里结识的可爱的新朋友一起振作起来。 参加Ultra Japan时,用一块石头杀死两只鸟,是因为参加100,000人的活动不仅将参加日本最大的EDM节,而且还将体验迷人的小岛奥迪亚博Odiabo,高科技的旅游者必须- 看到。 来欣赏音乐,欣赏美景。

还在梦你的以求的电影热带假期吗? 赶快在这里立即规划您的下一个亚洲EDM音乐节足迹

Best EDM Festivals in Asia

Wish you could be working on maintaining that sweet summer tan this winter rather than freezing your toes off? Well fear no more because Asia awaits you with its slew of tropical beaches, year-round bikini weather, and some of the most unique EDM music festivals you’ve ever come across. Seriously, get packing!

It’s The Ship

Ever partied for like a week straight on a ship? Well, it’s time to change that this November! Asia’s largest music festival at sea, It’s The Ship takes ravers on a sea-mingly unforgettable fiesta while whisking them off to some of South-East Asia’s hottest travel destinations – think Genting, think Phuket. Enjoy live performances by wacky and wonderful artists like Hot Dub Time Machine, Chocolate Puma, and Moksi while cannonballing into the sprawling pools at midnight. And if you need a break from the partying, you can always head, mimosa in hand,  to the deck of this luxurious cruise ship to sunbathe because this is an EDM festival-cum-vacation like no other. With themed parties and indulgent restaurants galore, there’s never a dull moment on board The Ship!

Electric Daisy Carnival Japan

You may’ve partied till the sun came up, but have you ever partied in the land of the rising sun? It’s time you paid Japan a visit because Electric Daisy Carnival Tokyo’s calling your name! Sprawling across Zozo Marine Stadium and Makuhari Beach Park, this installation of EDC stands out for providing a rave experience enhanced by signature Japanese hospitality and the abundance of delicious local street food available on-site to over 80,000 international EDM fans. And since it’s held in mid-May, before the major heat waves hit, you’ll be able to groove to ARTBAT, Major Lazer, Vini Vici, and Camelphat without wanting to melt.

Sunburn Festival

If Sunburn was a thing back in his day, I’m sure Columbus would’ve managed to follow the lights to the right subcontinent because this music festival is as lit as it gets! Proudly holding the title of Asia’s biggest music festival with attendance pushing past 350,000, Sunburn boasts state-of-the-art sound systems that attract attendees from all around the globe. Typically hosted around Decemeber in Goa, India’s party capital, Sunburn Festival provides the perfect escape from the mundanities of daily life with a truly diverse line-up that’s sure to take your breath away. From big names like The Chainsmokers and DJ Snake to up-and-coming musical maestros like Laughing Buddha and Designer Hippies – everyone’s sure to find their cup of tea shot of tequila here!

Ultra Korea

If living it up to DJ Snake, Afrojack and The Martinez Brothers against the backdrop of one of Asia’s most iconic urban destinations sounds like a good summer break to you, then this is the music festival for you! With top-quality production and special effects fit for a king, be whisked away into EDM heaven this June at Ultra Korea. It’s simple: for an ultra-soulful time, head over to Ultra Seoul! Quick – take a mighty swig of soju, and hit the dance floor.

Epizode Festival

Craving a break from the buzz of city-life but don’t want to give up partying? Hop on down to the sun-kissed shores of Southern Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island for some unparalleled EDM magic this new year’s eve. With internationally acclaimed artists pouring in from every corner of the world to grace its sexy moonlit stage, Epizode will have you falling in love with the genre even further. Look out for DOTT, Zig Zach, Hibiya Line and other front-runners in the Asian EDM scene while relishing the appearance of fan-favorites like Lilly Palmer and William Djoko. After a fortnight of dancing the night away in this slice of heaven, you’ll be reluctant to take the flight back home.

808 Festival

I bet Bangkok, a true cultural hotspot, is already on your travel bucket-list. And if it isn’t, 808 Festival is sure to make you change your mind real soon! With a reputation of being one of the most innovative and exciting EDM festivals out there, 808 managed to more than quadruple its attendance to over 15,000 visitors within three years of its establishment in 2013, and has continued to win the hearts of rave seekers worldwide by striking the perfect balance between dynamic new local acts like Napakorn and Ninegod, as well as international classics such as  Steve Aoki, Zedd and Skrillex every December.

Sonar Hong Kong

Gracing one of the continent’s most remarkable urban landscapes every April, Sonar Hong Kong is an EDM festival that wonderfully embodies the progressive and eclectic nature of the city it is held in. Other than presenting an epic line-up of EDM elite like Thundercat and John Talabot, this festival prides itself on providing a technologically cutting-edge experience for attendees as well, with captivating virtual reality installations and interactive art exhibits woven into the performances. For a refreshingly new take on the classic rave, give Hong Kong a go!

Electrical Daisy Carnival Korea

If good music for the soul’s something you crave, then Seoul’s the answer! Even if you’ve been to EDC in the States, I can guarantee that EDC Korea will blow your mind with its unique amalgamation of ornate sets, jaw-dropping attractions and internationally acclaimed artists. Offering a one-of-a-kind theme-park style experience, EDC Korea lets adventure junkies literally combine the thrill of riding a rollercoaster with the goosebump-inducing anticipation of witnessing your favourite EDM idols like Alesso and KSHMR in action. Held at the very end of August, this incredible music festival proves to be the best way to kiss summer goodbye and ring in fall.

Electric Daisy Carnival Guangdong

One of the newest ventures of EDC, the Guangdong edition has quickly become an absolute fan-favorite because of its extravagant firework displays and ability to deliver a multi-sensory, immersive experience year upon year. The magnificent Chimelong International Ocean Tourist Resort in China’s Guangdong province is transformed into a practically cinematic backdrop for an unforgettable EDM getaway every November. With headliners as wild and wacky as Yellow Claw and Marshmello, you know you’re in for a good time!

Ultra Japan

What’s better than getting VIP passes to a star-studded Ultra event? Why, getting VIP passes to a star-studded Ultra event in Japan, of course! Conjure up some mid-September magic at this gloriously extravagant musical bonanza while you groove to the beat of The Chainsmokers, ILLENIUM, or Gud Vibrations, singing your heart out with the lovely new people you’ll befriend here. Kill two birds with one stone when you attend Ultra Japan because, with 100,000 people in attendance,  you’ll not only be at the country’s largest EDM festival  but also be experiencing the enchanting Tokyo Park of Odiabo, a high-tech, tourist must-see. Come for the music, stay for the view.

Still dreaming of your straight-out-of-a-movie tropical getaway? Hurry and map out your next Asian EDM festival trail right here, right now!

tomorrowland main stage

Best EDM (Electronic Dance Music) Festivals in Europe

Growing bored of doing your rounds at the same few music festivals and want a change of scenery? Give these EDM festivals in Europe a go. Check these destinations off your rave and travel bucket lists at the same time; now that’s what I call a win-win situation!

Tomorrowland  (Boom, Belgium) – July

Yes, there’s more than just delicious chocolate to seduce you over to Belgium! Held in Belgium’s Boom, and crowned ‘The World’s #1 Festival’ back in 2015, Tomorrowland is arguably the continent’s most well-known and well-loved EDM festival. With hundreds of artists from around the world vying for a coveted spot on its fancy, futuristic floating stages, Tomorrowland promises to rather ironically have you wishing that the day never ends and tomorrow never comes so you can just keep dancing your heart out whilst basking in this high-quality music. From The Chainsmokers to Martin Garrix, you’ll be sure to spot your favorite EDM idols here. I mean David Guetta’s been performing here every year and if he doesn’t grow tired of it, I’m sure you won’t either.

Barcelona Beach Festival  (Barcelona, Spain) – July 

Not that you needed another reason to add Barcelona to your travel bucket list, but Barcelona Beach Festival has earned its name as one of the wildest dance music festivals in Spain. Polish up your Espanyol because the likes of EDM powerhouses like Don Diablo, Armin van Buuren and Alan Walker are about to set the Mediterranean coast on fire and it’d be a crime to miss it. So round up your BFFs, and head over to BBF this July for a summer to remember!

Mysteryland (Haarlemmermeer, Netherlands) – August

Netherland’s oldest and largest dance music festival, Mysteryland has been around since ’93 and leveled up each year to earn the title of the longest running dance festival in the whole world. Watch out for the star-studded line-up which boasts big names like Swedish House Mafia, Yellow Claw and Afrojack! Its elaborate sets, creative lighting and stellar camping facilities are sure to win you over as soon as you set foot on its grounds in Haarlemmermeer. And with attendees from over 100 different countries, it’s no mystery that Mysteryland is a true fan-favorite amongst EDM lovers!

Airbeat One (Neustadt-Glewe, Germany) – July

Looking to party the German way? Well luckily you don’t have to go much further than the airport (at Neustadt-Glewe)! Sporting an enticing line-up of some of the biggest EDM who’s who such as Salvatore Ganacci, Charlotte De Witte and NERVO, this dance festival will leave you with some major withdrawal symptoms once the four days of non-stop insanity are up. If dazzling visuals and ornate sets are what you crave, then head over to Airbeat One this July! And yes, the abundance of German craft beer doesn’t hurt either.

Ultra Europe (Split, Croatia) – July

Unfolding in the beautiful city of Split in the heart of Croatia, this multi-venue music festival promises to take your breath away with elaborate firework displays and the best beach parties to cool off in between performances. Set aside a week to soak in the festivities and make the most of your time here because Ultra Europe is guaranteed to be the largest international dance party you’ll ever find yourself invited to. Dance it out to sick tunes courtesy of Marshmello, Steve Aoki, Alesso, and every other household name in EDM because Ultra Europe is undeniably ultra cool.

Balaton Sound (Zamardi, Hungary) – July

Hung(a)ry for a rave experience you’ll never forget? Then head over to Zamardi, Hungary because Balaton Sound will certainly deliver! Although slightly smaller than some of the other names on this list, Balaton Sound earns its name as one of the best EDM music festivals in Europe for offering up breath-taking views and truly diverse line-up. Plus, Hungary’s a lot gentler on the wallet too, so don’t miss out on making a whole trip of it.Build up a luscious summer tan in this beachy wonderland sitting pretty on Europe’s largest lake whilst listening to the likes of DJ Snake, Moksi and Jonas Blue.

Creamfields (Cheshire, UK) – August

I bet you don’t think of Britain when you think of EDM, but Creamfields is about to change your mind. Held in Daresbury, Cheshire, Creamfields has effortlessly tripled in size since its birth in 1998 and reminds us why it continues to be the UK’s most renowned EDM festival since with legends like Avicii and Tiesto gracing its stage yearly. Savour every moment of this musical bonanza from the belly of the Steel Yard – one of the largest superstructures in the world, crafted solely to enhance the experience of festival attendees – and party to your heart’s content. The annual DJ Awards named Creamfields the ‘Best International Dance Music Festival’ back in 2014 because even a spell of the notoriously unpredictable English showers won’t be able to dampen your spirits here.

Untold Festival (Cluj-Napoca, Romania) – July

End July on a high note with a tonne of unspeakable fun – ya know, ’cause it’s untold? – in the heart of Romania. Yes, Untold Festival provides the perfect opportunity for you to explore the picturesque city of Cluj-Napoca as you indulge in a generous buffet of EDM perfection, ranging from Stormzy to David Guetta and every musical legend in between. Crowned ‘Best Major Festival’ thrice in a row at the esteemed European Festival Awards, Untold has established itself as a frontrunner in the scene.

Electric Love Festival (Salzburgring, Austria) – July

Follow the sound of music over to Austria’s Salzburgring, to be (von-)trap-ped by the enchanting combination of breathtakingly beautiful European countryside and groovy EDM music of every possible sub-genre over at Electric Love Festival. Annually unfolding in July, this gram-worthy EDM fest is known for putting Austria on the rave map with riveting performances from internationally-acclaimed artists like Axwell, Sebastian Ingrosso and Timmy Trumpet.

Sonar Barcelona (Barcelona, Spain) – June

Sónar is the 3 days and 2 nights International Festival of Advanced Music and New Media Art that takes place at various venues in Barcelona (Spain) in the third week of June since 1994. It’s first class reputation as a leading reference for international festivals is by virtue of a carefully balanced cultural offering, combining a playful nature, the avant-garde, and experimentation with electronic dance music’s newest trends. Sónar activities are divided into two main locations: the recently premiered Sónar by Day, located from 2013 in Fira Montjuïc, with concerts and dj’s, showcases as well as the new Sónar+D, the professional activities areas; and the larger shows at Sónar by Night, in Fira Gran Via de L’Hospitalet, where the leading names in the current international music scene are staged.

Amsterdam Music Festival (Amsterdam, Netherlands) – October

Amsterdam is basically the Mecca of EDM, so it’s only fitting that Amsterdam Music Festival sees fans pouring in from every corner of the world. Taking place every October in Johan Crujiff Arena, the largest indoor stadium Netherlands has to offer, AMF boasts a legendary line-up featuring the likes of Coone, Lost Frequencies and  Jonas Blue. It also holds the honour of announcing the annual list of Top 100 DJs as ranked by DJ Mag, thereby setting the tone for the rest of the year and playing a pivotal role in catapulting EDM artists to fame. Basically, this festival is a must-attend for every avid raver, and it’s sure to have you saying Amster-dayumm.

11 magnificent destinations, 11 unforgettable music festivals, but only one stop to book your tickets!

10 Essentials to Bring to a Music Festival

Lo and behold, rave season is here! Are you ready to do your yearly round-up of all your favourite music festivals? I bet you are, and that you’ve been planning your outfits out for weeks, but have you given your packing list a second thought? Yes, travelling light is a priority but you’ve got to bring these 10 essentials to a music festival if you want to make the most of your time there. Refer to this handy little rave checklist and never worry about struggling to pack your bag at short notice again!

Quench Your Thirst with a Hydration Pack

Look, I know you don’t want to be lugging around a water bottle but staying hydrated is key to having a good rave experience; no one wants to find themselves fainting in the middle of a crowd and potentially trampled over by a bunch of high-energy ravers. Not only are hydration packs a super convenient substitute to regular bottled water, they also have a much larger capacity. And you don’t have to compromise on style either – opt for a funky hydration pack that complements your outfit and doubles as a fun accessory! So do yourself a favour and get a trusty hydration pack you can count on to keep you rejuvenated and always ready to break out your killer moves without feeling light-headed.

Power Through with a Power Bank

Yes you’re pumped to live it up, but make sure your phone’s energy matches yours. You don’t want to get stranded alone in the middle of nowhere the morning after with a dead phone, right? Sure, you could totally ask to borrow a friendly stranger’s cellphone, but you’d be lying to yourself if you said you actually knew any of your friends’ phone numbers. Save yourself a couple breakdowns by bringing along a pocket-sized power bank that’ll keep your phone-juice flowin’. Now you can take an obscene amount of photos and record your favourite performances without worrying about conserving battery power. Big win!

Kiss Away Boo-Boos with a First-Aid Kit

I’m not suggesting you carry a full-size first-aid kit with you to Coachella, but keeping a couple band-aids on hand is always a good idea. A mini first-aid kit stuffed with essentials like painkillers (stay away from Tylenol if you are going to be drinking alcohol), Nyquil, antiseptic cream and a handful of Q-tips will go a long way in terms of providing protection in an emergency situation. Throw one into your fanny pack so you can tackle random bouts of nausea and those random cuts that pop out of nowhere with sheer confidence.

Gear Up with a Mask

Even before COVID-19 entered the picture (and even once it leaves), masks were a must at music festivals. Now, I’m not talking surgical masks but just some form of fashionable cloth facial shield. You can easily DIY one out of an old t-shirt or even go for a bandana if you’re looking for something that ties into your outfit a little better. They’ll protect you from the strong hum of air pollution, and keep you from gagging on the horrible stench snaking out from the porta-potties. And the smell of puke ingrained on the super drunk guy next to you on the dancefloor. Basically, when we’re looking at 10 essentials to bring to a music festival, masks definitely make the cut.

Party Safe with Earplugs

Yes you’re here for the sick tunes but you don’t want to leave deaf now, do you? Grab some earplugs to keep pesky sound-induced headaches at bay so that you can get down when the beat drops without feeling like your head’s about to explode. Ditch the old spongey ones you wore to swimming lessons for a more expensive but effective reusable pair that’s designed to protect you from high-frequency sound. From clear, inconspicuous ones to colourful customizable ones – there’s a wide range of earplugs to choose from, so you’re sure to find one you’ll love. And if you had any qualms about looking uncool with earplugs on, remember that your favourite DJ’s probably sporting a pair on stage too.

Cozy Up with a Hoodie

Music festival outfits tend to be light and breezy to beat the heat but remember that it can get real cold real fast at night. While your booty shorts and refashioned bikini top offer the chance to rock your summer bod, it might be a good idea to pack a cosy hoodie… unless getting pneumonia is on your bucket list.

Go crazy with the choice of fabric and style; think of it as a way to wear your personality. In fact, your hoodie may even serve as the perfect way to work in something of an outfit change without having to pack a whole different outfit!

Beat the Heat with Sunscreen

Yes your strappy outfit looks bomb but I bet it’s going to leave you with some real unfortunate tan lines. Slather on that sunscreen real thick to prevent sunburns and ugly tans alike. If you’re worried about getting that pasty look, opt for a bb cream with SPF protection for your face and spray on some non-greasy lightweight sunscreen for the rest of your body. With just a couple reapplications you can dance the day away without a care!

Stay Fresh with Deodorant

Let’s be real, it can get pretty hot ‘n’ heavy out there, so don’t be surprised if your teen-hood nemesis B.O decides to put in an appearance. Save yourself the embarrassment and ravers all around you from gagging by packing a stick of deodorant for your next music festival. Trust me, a quick swipe or two goes a long way. And if you’re not a deo fan, then just grab some baby wipes at your local drugstore for the ride because let’s face it – music festivals aren’t exactly known for their showering or bathroom facilities.

Pack an Oomph with a Fanny Pack

Fanny packs- they were uncool in middle school, but they’ll be your best friend at raves! What better way to keep your valuables safe and within reach at all times than by strappin’ it onto your body? Even when you’re high, drunk or hungover, your darling fanny pack will make sure that your dollar bills aren’t strewn across the dance floor and that your phone hasn’t fallen out of your pocket unnoticed like three hours ago. Customize yours to match your ’fit.

Night Sorted with a Sleeping Bag

Most music festivals are a lengthy affair, stretching over multiple days of pure musical madness so you should be prepared to camp it out. While packing a full-fledged tent may seem impractical – and sometimes straight up unnecessary – consider carrying a lightweight sleeping bag that you can slip into to catch some z’s. I know sleep’s the last thing on your mind when your favorite artists are killing it just a few meters away from you, but believe me your body will thank you for thinking ahead when you’re exhausted and need a place to crash.

There you have it – 10 essentials to bring to a music festival, no matter where you’re headed. What’re you waiting for, now that you have your bags packed, go ahead and book your tickets already!