Music festivals are more than just a gathering of artists and fans. They represent a space of cultures from many walks of life. The world hosts some of the most spectacular music festivals from the deserts of Nevada to the green fields in England. Whatever your taste in music is, from rock to pop, electronic to country, there’s a music festival for you.
So in this article, we take you through the best music festivals worldwide, what makes each one of them special, the types of music genres they celebrate, and why they pull crowds running into millions year after year.
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
Coachella is an annual music and arts festival held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. It takes place in the Coachella Valley in the Colorado Desert and was founded by Paul Tollett and Rick Van Santen in 1999, organized by AEG Presents. Oftentimes, Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is rated in some of the best music festivals worldwide and even sometimes as the cultural icon among the biggest American music festivals.
It takes place yearly at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, United States, where top-ranked artists in a variety of music genres such as rock, hip-hop, electronic, and indie perform. It’s known for its huge art installations and being a mecca of fashion visions, so it’s no longer just a music festival, it’s very much a visual and cultural buffet. This festival has become home to creativity and a show of uniqueness in style by the people who go to it, hence the phenomenon known as “Coachella fashion.” It’s a star-studded event where celebrities,
influencers, and lovers of music alike all come down to Coachella to become part of the glam for a weekend filled with moments for social media. With the performances of world-famous artists such as Beyoncé and the surprise guest appearances, Coachella is nothing short of epic. It was, of course, a thing to remember: this is the festival arguably the very best in the world and a must-go for anyone enthusiastic about music, art, and culture.
Tomorrowland
Tomorrowland is one of the big, yearly electronic dance music festivals in Boom, Antwerp, Belgium. The two brothers, Manu and Michiel Beers, gave the festival life back in 2005 when they created it within De Schorre provincial recreational park. Surely, Tomorrowland is one of the best music festivals in the world where people celebrate the music of electronic dance music (EDM). The Tomorrowland festival location takes on a fairytale atmosphere in Boom, Belgium, and literally attracts hundreds of thousands of music lovers from all over the world.
Featuring extravagant stages with designs that match their fantastic imagination, the experience at Tomorrowland is surreal and mind-blowing. With headliner DJs such as Armin van Buuren, Martin Garrix, and David Guetta on the stages, Tomorrowland is a musical journey of a lifetime that the fans come back to again and again.
The most common question is about the Tomorrowland ticket price. They can at times be on the expensive side, at least for those packages that include stay and access to special areas, but the experience is almost always justified by the number. Tickets usually range from around €100 for the one-day entrance to over €400 to access the entire weekend, plus extra charges for VIP. However, since the festival is so popular, tickets tend to sell out within minutes, so planning ahead and booking well in advance is crucial.
Tomorrowland is special to you, whether you’re a seasoned EDM fan or one for the list of best music festivals in the world. Tomorrowland is very unique, not many will be able to compare this magnificent event where there is music, art, and community bonded by an enchanting environment and performances; it’s very top-notch, that’s why it has become a bucket list for every festival goer out there.
Glastonbury Festival
Glastonbury Festival is a five-day festival of contemporary performing arts that takes place close to Pilton, Somerset, England in most summers. As well as contemporary music, the festival hosts dance, comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret, and other arts. Well, Glastonbury comes top of the pile for the UK with an incredible 731,742 hashtags. This five-day festival needs little introduction.
Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom, held in Somerset, is one of the best music festivals worldwide, famous for having a diverse lineup and an iconic status in the world of music. It is a mythical festival with huge richness of rock, pop, electronics, and world music put on several stages, which will offer a cultural experience like no other.
What really makes it the jewel in any music lover’s calendar, however, is that the Glastonbury Festival timetable is jam-packed with performances from the world’s biggest stars all the way down to the freshest talent. Ever difficult to get hold of, Glastonbury tickets sell out in a matter of minutes once they are released in the autumn, usually costing in the region of £250 for a full weekend pass. In return, buyers are treated to more acts than you could wish for over one summer weekend, in addition to all camping and on-site facilities.
Glastonbury has remained an event that is always a must-attend for any festival lover, with a unique atmosphere and unforgettable moments in the history of the festival.
Primavera Sound Barcelona
Primavera Sound is an annual indie music festival in Barcelona. It’s among the biggest music festivals in Spain, featuring performers like Lana Del Rey, Mitski, Charli XCX, and Vampire Weekend. Notably, it was the first major festival to achieve a gender-equal lineup in 2019.
Primavera Sound Barcelona is considered one of the coolest festivals around the world, offering a unique mix of indie, rock, pop, and electronic music. Held in the vibrant city of Barcelona, it attracts music lovers who appreciate cutting-edge sounds and diverse lineups.
The Primavera Sound Barcelona line-up is always eagerly awaited, featuring a blend of legendary icons and emerging talent. With past headliners like Radiohead, The Strokes, and Kendrick Lamar, the festival draws a global audience excited to experience its diverse range of genres. The thoughtfully curated lineup ensures there’s something for everyone, from indie rock to electronic beats.
When it comes to Primavera Sound tickets price, the festival offers a range of options to fit various budgets. Early bird tickets usually start around €150 for a full weekend pass, though prices can increase as the event approaches. VIP packages are also available, providing access to exclusive areas and additional facilities.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Barcelona’s coastline, Primavera Sound delivers not only incredible music but also the opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. With its combination of top-tier talent, diverse crowds, and electrifying atmosphere, Primavera Sound Barcelona is truly one of the coolest festivals around the world.
Rock in Rio
Rock in Rio is a biennial Brazilian multi-day music festival held at the City of Rock in Rio de Janeiro. It has since expanded to other cities like Lisbon, Madrid, and Las Vegas, making it one of the best music festivals worldwide. Known for its large scale and star-studded lineups, the Rock in Rio music festival attracts millions of fans eager to witness performances from some of the biggest names in the music industry.
The festival’s reputation as one of the best festivals around the world is well-deserved, with past headliners including iconic acts like Queen, Guns N’ Roses, and Beyoncé. Every edition of Rock in Rio presents an extraordinary mix of rock, pop, and electronic music, drawing diverse audiences from around the world. The festival’s unique atmosphere, fueled by enthusiastic fans and top-tier performances, makes it a must-attend event for any music lover.
Rock in Rio’s dedication to creating an unforgettable experience goes beyond the music, offering attractions like amusement rides, food courts, and interactive zones, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re attending in Rio de Janeiro, Lisbon, or another city, Rock in Rio consistently delivers a world-class festival experience, reinforcing its status as one of the best music festivals worldwide.
Ultra Music Festival
Ultra Music Festival is an annual outdoor electronic music festival held each March in Miami, Florida. Founded in 1999 by Russell Faibisch and Alex Omes, it has quickly risen to become one of the “top ten festivals in the world.” Renowned for its electrifying atmosphere and top-tier EDM performances, Ultra has firmly established itself as one of the top EDM festivals globally.
Every year, Ultra Music Festival presents an impressive lineup of world-renowned DJs and producers, delivering unforgettable sets across multiple stages. From legendary artists like David Guetta and Tiësto to emerging talents in the electronic music scene, the festival consistently provides a diverse and high-energy experience. The elaborate stage designs and cutting-edge visual effects further enhance the immersive environment, making it a favorite among electronic music fans.
When it comes to an Ultra Music Festival review, attendees often praise the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, efficient logistics, and the opportunity to see top EDM artists perform live. With its iconic Miami location, stunning production values, and a lineup featuring the best in electronic music, Ultra Music Festival remains a must-attend event for anyone passionate about experiencing the pinnacle of EDM and festival culture.
Fuji Rock Festival
Fuji Rock Festival is an annual rock festival held at the Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. Organized by Smash Japan, this three-day event features over 200 Japanese and international musicians, making it the largest outdoor music event in Japan. In 2005, the festival drew more than 100,000 attendees, highlighting its immense popularity and widespread appeal.
As one of the best music festivals worldwide, Fuji Rock Festival offers a unique experience with its breathtaking mountain backdrop and diverse lineup. From rock and electronic to indie and folk, the festival’s eclectic mix ensures there’s something for every music enthusiast. The festival’s dedication to high-quality performances and a lively atmosphere has earned it a reputation as one of the most popular festivals in the world.
Regarding the Fuji Rock Festival ticket price, attendees can expect to pay around ¥50,000 for a three-day pass, with options for single-day tickets also available. Prices may vary depending on the time of purchase and additional services like camping. Despite the cost, the festival’s stunning setting, impressive lineup, and well-organized event make it a worthwhile experience for those looking to enjoy one of Japan’s most celebrated music festivals.
EDC Las Vegas
Electric Daisy Carnival, commonly known as EDC, is an electronic dance music festival organized by promoter and distributor Insomniac. The annual flagship event, EDC Las Vegas, takes place in May at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and is recognized as the largest electronic dance music festival in North America as of 2024. EDC Las Vegas is celebrated as one of the best music festivals worldwide, attracting attendees from across the globe with its enormous scale and high-energy performances.
As one of the most popular festivals in the world, EDC Las Vegas is renowned for its spectacular stage designs, immersive light shows, and top-tier lineup of DJs. Each year, the festival showcases a mix of renowned electronic artists and rising talents, offering an unforgettable experience for EDM fans. The vibrant atmosphere, enhanced by the festival’s iconic carnival-themed attractions, makes it a standout event on the global festival scene.
For those interested in attending, the EDC Las Vegas ticket exchange provides a platform for buying or selling tickets, especially if the festival is sold out. Ticket prices usually range from around $400 for a general admission pass to over $1,000 for VIP options, depending on the type and timing of purchase. The ticket exchange ensures that fans can secure their spot at this must-attend festival, known for its incredible music, immersive environment, and unforgettable experiences.
Exit
Exit is a summer music festival held at the Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad, Serbia. Founded in 2000, it has earned prestigious accolades, including the Best Major Festival award at the European Festivals Awards in 2013 and 2017, and the Best European Festival award at the UK Festival Awards in 2007, solidifying its place among the “best music festivals worldwide.”
As one of the most popular festivals in the world, Exit Festival is distinguished by its unique setting and diverse lineup. The festival is set against the historic Petrovaradin Fortress, offering a breathtaking backdrop for an impressive array of performances across various genres, including rock, electronic, hip-hop, and more. This stunning location, combined with a vibrant atmosphere and high-quality music, creates a memorable experience for festival-goers from all over the world.
For those considering attending, the EXIT Festival ticket price generally ranges from around €100 for a general admission pass to higher rates for VIP options and accommodation packages. Prices can vary depending on the time of purchase and the type of ticket. The festival’s blend of top-tier performances and its captivating setting make it a must-attend event, reflecting its status as one of the premier music festivals in the world.