The Best Music Festivals (That Aren't Coachella)

It’s been nearly a month since Coachella announced the lineup for its annual spectacle-filled Instagram-worthy weekends, which means that music festival season is just around the corner. While Coachella has become one of the biggest events of the summer, featuring headliners Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar and Eminem, not everyone has the funds to account for tickets, housing, and transportation—especially if you don’t live in the Southern California area.

So if you aren’t planning on heading into the desert to enjoy a weekend of music, or even if you are, we’ve found some of the best music festivals around the country so you can get your fix. Then shop some of our favorite items that’ll make sure you stand out in the crowd. You won’t even have to worry about missing your opportunity for the gram.

SXSW

Austin, TX (March 12–18)

SXSW is part-music, part-film, and part-comedy festival. Travel down to Texas to see a variety of genres and artists performing in venues ranging from bars and clubs to churches and hotels. The festival offers a curated selection of artists from around the world, so you’ll never be without music to enjoy.

Stagecoach

Indio, CA (April 27–29)

If you can’t make it Coachella but still want the experience, head over for Stagecoach the following week, one of the largest country music festivals in the country. This year’s lineup features Keith Urban, Florida Georgia Line, and Garth Brooks. 

Boston Calling

Boston, MA (May 25–27)

For those on the East Coast, Boston Calling makes a great alternative to the West Coast festival. The growing festival has been gaining traction with this year’s headliners including Coachella headliner Eminem, Tyler, the Creator, and The Killers.

Sasquatch!

Quincy, WA (May 25–27)

Feeling up for the Pacific Northwest? The Sasquatch! Festival will be sure to have major acts in its soon-to-be-released lineup, as well as some lesser-known artists you’ll be glad to discover. Last year’s lineup included big names including Frank Ocean, Chance the Rapper, and The Shins.

Governors Ball

New York, NY (June 1–3)

Why fly across the country for Coachella when you have Governors Ball right in New York City? The city music festival has become increasingly popular, with this year’s headliners including Jack White, Eminem and Travis Scott. New Yorkers won’t have to travel far when enjoying the music right in Randall’s Island Park.

Bonnaroo

Manchester, TN (June 7–10)

The music festival of the south is one of the biggest summer festivals in the country, and while its lineup often rivals that its Californian counterpart, you’ll find an entirely different environment at Bonaroo. Festivalgoers won’t be disappointed to see Future, Muse, and Bon Iver there along with Jack White and Eminem, who are also headlining at Coachella and Governors Ball. 

Lollapalooza

Chicago, IL (August 2–5)

The largest music festival in the Midwest, Lollapalooza takes place right in the heart of Chicago at Grant Park. The weekend has become so popular, the event increased from three to four days to fit in all your concert needs. Though its lineup has yet to be released, past headliners include Chance the Rapper, Lorde, and Arcade Fire.

Outside Lands

San Francisco, CA (August 10–12)

If you’re looking to get a mix of the Pacific Northwest with California, Outside Lands is the music festival for you. Considering past performers like The Who, The Gorillaz, and Alt-J, who wouldn’t want to be there? Set right in Golden Gate Park, you can listen to music while the Bay Area fog rolls in.