The Ultimate List of Music Festivals in California This Summer (2024)

California will welcome over 20 major music festivals this summer. From the iconic Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April to the genre-mixing Outside Lands in San Francisco in August, it’s the place for music in 2024. You can enjoy indie rock, jazz, electronic dance music, or country. There’s something for everyone.

We’re excited for the music to begin again. It’s time to mark your calendars and start planning. This guide will help you find the best festivals in California this summer. You won’t want to miss out.

Key Takeaways

• California hosts over 20 major music festivals in the summer of 2024.
• The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival spans two weekends in April.
• Outside Lands festival in San Francisco takes place over three days in August.
• California’s festival lineup caters to a diverse range of music genres.
• This guide provides a comprehensive list of the most exciting 2024 music festivals in the Golden State.

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

The biggest party in the desert is coming back in 2024 to the Empire Polo Club in Indio. The lineup is still a secret, but big stars and new talents will perform. Olivia Rodrigo, who is from Temecula, has no shows between April 9 and April 30.

Dates and Location

In April 2024, the festival will be held over two weekends. It will run from April 12-14 and then again from April 19-21.

Lineup and Highlights

The festival will see Lana Del Rey, Doja Cat, Tyler, the Creator, and a special reunion of No Doubt. With 146 acts, the lineup is diverse, promising great sets and excitement. The music styles include pop, alternative, electronic, and rock, offering something for everyone.

Camping and Accommodation Options

Since 1999, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (Coachella) has been drawing fans. Around a quarter million people come every April. The 2023 Coachella was a hit, with stars like Frank Ocean, Blondie, and Gorillaz.

Stagecoach Country Music Festival

After Coachella, it’s time for some cowboy fun at the three-day Stagecoach country music festival. Eric Church, Miranda Lambert, and Morgan Wallen will take the lead. You can also enjoy Post Malone, Willie Nelson & Family, and many more.

Dates and Location

The 2024 Stagecoach country music festival will run from April 26 to April 28. It’s happening at the Empire Polo Club in Indio.

Headliners and Performers

Epic artists like Eric Church, Miranda Lambert, and Morgan Wallen are headlining. You’ll also see Post Malone, Willie Nelson, and Clint Black. Big names like Brad Paisley, Jason Aldean, and Kenny Chesney have rocked the Stagecoach Festival in the past.

This festival is the biggest in country music worldwide. It has drawn massive crowds, from 55,000 guests in 2012 to a peak of 80,000 in 2019. The 2018 event saw a new high of 75,000 attendees. Sadly, it was off in 2020 and 2021 because of COVID-19.

Besides music, enjoy Guy Fieri’s Stagecoach Smokehouse and Shein Saloon’s cowboy karaoke. There’s also a flea market for vintage finds. Kids will love the Half-Pint Hootenanny with cool games and arts and crafts.

Stay on-site at the camping grounds offering fun for all ages. Indulge in a variety of food and drink staples all weekend long. Don’t miss the Stagecoach Festival‘s BBQ Championship. This hot event is sanctioned by the Kansas City BBQ Society.

The 2024 Stagecoach country music festival will be buzzing with top-notch country, rock, and pop stars. It also offers cool activities and services. Whether you love country music or just want an exciting festival season in California, this is a key event to attend.

list of all music festivals in California this summer

California, the Golden State, is full of unique places and cultures. It’s also a big spot for music events. In 2023, Southern California buzzed with many large music festivals. For 2024, Southern California will host music festivals covering many genres. This includes reggae, rock, hip-hop, and more.

Major Multi-Genre Festivals

From the mix of music at Coachella to the country at Stagecoach, California has something for every music fan. These major festivals draw people from all over who love different styles of music.

Genre-Specific Festivals

California also hosts many genre-specific music festivals. You can enjoy Latin sounds at Baja Beach Fest or hear new-wave music at Cruel World. Or, listen to smooth jazz at festivals like San Diego Smooth Jazz.

Local and Regional Festivals

In addition to the big events, California has lots of local and regional festivals. Festivals like Viva! Pomona, Rolling Loud, and Dec. 30 Wild Horses at Petco Park offer unique experiences. These festivals show the state’s rich and varied music culture.

Lightning in a Bottle

Dates and Location

Lightning in a Bottle isn’t just about music. It’s a celebration of community in Central California. Held at Buena Vista Lake over Memorial Day weekend, it focuses on art, wellness, and being green.

Music, Art, and Wellness Experiences

This fest offers electronic music, yoga, art, and talks. It has seven stages with top acts and workshops by leaders from various fields. You can also join in over 150 talks at the Compass area. Plus, there’s yoga with a huge range of teachers. It’s a space where people, including artists and volunteers, come together for fun and learning. The Marketplace showcases handmade goods. Think jewelry, skincare, and unique festival wear. Love the beach? Then you’ll love this vibe. Include lightning in a bottle california in your plans.

About 18,000 people went to lightning in a bottle last year. Tickets varied from $359 for a 3-day pass to $779 for VIP access. Hosted by The Do Lab, they’re known for creating magic at coachella. Enjoy standard camping from $165 or opt for something fancier. This fest sees stars like Skrillex, M.I.A., and more. Coming from far? Most people fly into LAX, although the fest is 115 miles away. It’s also ready for those with special access needs, with ADA services.

At lightning in a bottle, you’ll find unique amenities and lots of new faces, too. Many visitors use pro packing lists and they care about the planet. For those who need extra help, ADA services are available with great care.

BottleRock Napa Valley

Located in Napa Valley, the BottleRock event is a mix of music, food, and wine. It happens from May 24th to May 26th, 2024, over Memorial Day Weekend. It’s a top spot for those who love music and good eats.

Dates and Location

The 2025 BottleRock will take place on May 23-25, 2025, at the Napa Valley Expo. Passes for 2025 are $426 each, just like 2024.

Music, Food, and Wine Offerings

The 2024 lineup is packed with stars like Ed Sheeran and Pearl Jam. With 5 stages, there’s plenty to hear and see.

Foodies will love the 50+ restaurants at the event. And, more than 50 wines will be there to taste. Top chefs will also show off their skills.

BottleRock is all about fun, combining music, wine, and food in Napa Valley. The Expo’s place adds to the magic.

Getting there is easy with shuttles or bike parking. Paid parking is near for cars. Premium ticket holders can park for free, but spots fill up fast.

Don’t forget essentials like a hat and sunscreen. A jacket, water bottle, and charger are a good idea too. Check the bag rules and think about using lockers for your stuff.

At the Spa, many guests got a B-vitamin IV for a quick recharge on day three. The Silverado Pickups rocked the Truly Stage on the last day.

Outside Lands

In the heart of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the Outside Lands music festival is a must-see event. It blends music, food, and art into one unforgettable celebration. The festival is a chance to enjoy different music styles and the rich culture of Northern California. Plus, you can savor its delicious local food.

Dates and Location

The 2024 Outside Lands takes place from August 9-11 in Golden Gate Park. This green haven offers a beautiful setting for the music festival every year.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives

More than just music and food, Outside Lands values the planet. It is dedicated to going green through many eco-friendly actions. The organizers focus on lessening the festival’s environmental impact. They bring in renewable energy and cut down on waste.

No matter your musical taste, Outside Lands has something you’ll love. There are 64 artists across many genres in the lineup. This ensures a music-filled experience that’s both exciting and moving.

Save the date, pack your things, and join the fun at the Outside Lands. It promises to be an amazing and planet-friendly music fest in San Francisco.

San Diego Bayfest

Experience San Diego Bayfest against the amazing San Diego Bay scenery. This event focuses on reggae and hip-hop music. It’s a great single-day event for music lovers who also enjoy the beauty of California’s coast.

It takes place at the beautiful Waterfront Park in downtown San Diego. The date is July 8, 2024. This fest celebrates the city’s lively music, with many artists and fans coming together.

Are you into reggae or hip-hop? Then you’ll love San Diego Bayfest. Its chill vibe and bay views make for an amazing time. So, don’t forget to put it on your calendar and join in the fun!

Camping Music Festivals in California

California holds many music festivals, each different and full of life. You can enjoy more than music — there’s culture, art, and friends to make. From the famous Coachella to new local events, there’s something for everyone. You can choose glamping, staying in an RV, or enjoy with your family. The Golden State is ready to welcome you into its music scene.

Glamping and RV Options

If you prefer a fancier camping, California’s festivals have glamping and RVs. At Coachella, 125,000 people come daily. They offer luxury camping to make your time even better. The Lightning in a Bottle Festival, in Kern County, has various passes. You can choose between three-day or five-day passes for a cozy stay.

Family-Friendly Festivals

Lucidity Festival is great for families. It has cool art and a fun story on stage. The Joshua Tree Music Festival has music from morning till late. Everyone can find something they like. These places are safe for families to have fun together with music and art.

Emerging and Local Music Festivals

Summer’s here, ready to rock with music in California. The biggies like Coachella and Stagecoach shine bright. But, don’t forget the hidden gems. California has lots of emerging, local, small, and indie music festivals. They’re special for their unique and close-up music vibes.

Mark your calendar for the Mill Valley Music Festival. It’s on May 11-12, 2024. This fest is all about the Bay Area’s music scene. You’ll see local bands on different stages. Plus, enjoy great food and arts fun.

Don’t miss the Strawberry Music Festival on May 22-27, 2024. It’s loved for its folk, bluegrass, and Americana songs in Yosemite’s beauty. Sleep in nature, hear live music, and join cool workshops.

Check out the Mosswood Meltdown on July 6-7, 2024, near wine country. This fest shines a light on indie music, with new acts playing all sorts of music. Expect fun vibes, great food, drinks, and art to enjoy.

The Fillmore Jazz Festival happens on July 6-7, 2024. It’s a mecca for jazz fans. This free fest showcases Fillmore’s jazz culture with big names and new talents. Enjoy street performances, art, and food from the neighborhood.

Don’t stop at the big names. California has many local events perfect for music lovers. The Yerba Buena Gardens Festival is one. It goes from May to October with all types of music and dances.

Looking for more in California? Try the small and indie music festivals. They offer unique chances to find new music, enjoy different sounds, and join lively communities. That’s what makes California’s music scene so cool.

Spring and Summer Music Festivals in California

When the sun shines on California, its music scene lights up. There are many spring and summer music festivals to choose from. They cover every genre and cater to all tastes. You can start with the famous Coachella Festival or visit local events. Get ready to enjoy music right in the heart of California.

March and April Music Festivals

Spring in California means lots of music festivals. You can join the fun starting with the Cali Vibes Festival in Long Beach. Then check out the Skyline Festival in Los Angeles and the CRSSD Festival in San Diego. You can also enjoy the Boots in the Park Norco event, and many others. There’s a festival for everyone in these first months of the year.

May and June Music Festivals

As summer nears, more festivals pop up in California. Enjoy the BeachLife Festival in Redondo Beach and the Gator by the Bay festival in San Diego. June has treats like L.A. Pride in the Park and the No Values Music Festival in Pomona. Mark your calendar for June 8 for these special events.

July and August Music Festivals

In summer, California hosts several music festivals. Look out for the Day Trip Festival’s house music at the Queen Mary waterfront. Don’t miss the Roots Picnic at the Hollywood Bowl. There’s also the HARD Summer festival in Hollywood and more. Plus, in August, enjoy the Fool in Love Music Festival in Hollywood. Fans of Creed will love the Summer of ’99 and Beyond Festival in San Bernardino. There’s also the Ohana Festival by Eddie Vedder at Doheny State Beach.

Aside from the big festivals, California has many more to offer. It’s a hub for new and local music festivals. These events showcase the amazing music talents from California. No matter what music you enjoy, California’s festival circuit has something special for you.

Fall Music Festivals in California

September and October Music Festivals

As summer ends, a cool breeze ushers in California’s fall music festivals. The Monterey Jazz Festival, in its 66th year, is from September 27-29. Aftershock, from October 10-13, is for rock fans, with bands like Creed and more. At the same time, Desert Daze’s indie lineup is ready, with a mystic bazaar for campers.

These festivals highlight California’s music scene and its amazing landscapes. From jazz to rock or indie, there’s something for all music lovers in the Golden State this autumn.

We can’t wait for the details on these fall music events and when tickets will be available. Keep an eye out for updates. Remember to put these dates in your calendar for a great time.

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