Explore these music festivals this summer

05/08/2018

Gorgeous summer weather is all the incentive you need to don a pair of sunglasses and head outdoors. But what if you could try delicious food while jamming to your favourite bands and meeting fellow music fans? Summer is when many music festivals in the U.S. and around the world kick into gear, bringing together fans of punk, pop and alternative music. Check out the list of festivals - and make sure to book early! These multi-day festivals typically sell out fast, with concert-goers bringing tents to skip the expense of booking a hotel room.

Glastonbury Festival – Pilton, UK

Glastonbury is a high octane music scene in Somerset, England, which is also about 84 km from Stonehenge. If you're into King Arthur, the Knights of the round table and Camelot – you're in the centre of this mystical realm in Glastonbury. The festival usually coincides with the summer solstice, so try to imagine the vibe in the Somerset surround, as some of the world's most talented musicians take to the awe inspiring Pyramid Stage. The sets alone are mind boggling. Contemplating those who have graced this revered stage include David Bowie, the Rolling Stones, The Who, Kanye West, Adele, James Brown, the Arctic Monkeys and The Killers. The festival runs over five days, so if you find yourself wanting something with a harder edge, head along the path to Arcadia where a stunning flame throwing structure hosts the partiers. If you want to change up the pace, the circus and cabaret field host some of the world's best comedians, drag queens, magicians and trapeze artists. Be sure to bring your Wellington boots. Even if it rains at times, you'll fit right in if you don your wellies and party on.

Coachella - Indio, California, U.S.

This music extravaganza takes place over two weekends in April. It draws headliners like Lady Gaga, Guns 'N' Roses and DJ Calvin Harris. Concert-goers have a decidedly laid back, beachy vibe, making this a great festival for first-timers. Coachella is also a foodie haven: Food trucks line up to feed hungry visitors. Dessert mavens from CoolHaus started dishing out their architecturally-inspired ice cream sandwiches in 2009 which launched them to popularity.

Isle of Wight Festival - Isle of Wight, UK

Want to build a vacation around a music festival? Add the Isle of Wight to your itinerary. Known as the UK's equivalent of Woodstock, this music festival started in 1968 and has gone on to feature popular musicians across a number of genres, including Jimi Hendrix, The Who and The Doors, along with more recent headliners like Bastille. You can ease your travel planning and buy your ticket along with a pre-pitched tent option. You can also catch comedy and cabaret numbers while you're there. The Isle of Wight is less than a 3 hour train-ride from London. As a major hub, Heathrow can be a gateway to a number of destinations in the UK and Europe.

Primavera Sound - Barcelona, Spain

If you prefer smooth, soothing indie rock, this music festival is a must. You can listen to the latest indie musicians by day and lounge by the pool by night. This concert takes place the final weekend in May, giving you the perfect weather by which to explore Barcelona! With the series running over five days, you can pop in for one night to see your favourite band or camp to get the full experience. No matter what you choose, make sure to experience a glass of crisp Albarino, the country's native white wine, with a plate of paella.

Music festivals are a great way to learn more about a city's culture and explore their food scene - so be sure to bring an empty stomach! You could even discover a new favourite band as you wander through the festival grounds or find like-minded fans. These festivals can be a stop en-route during your vacation or you can make them the focus of your experience. With so much time spent outside, just be sure to include an extra tube of sunscreen!