Yeah, we're bummed that we didn't get tickets to Coachella. But there's is no need to panic. There are high-priced, shirtless concertgoer-attracting festivals all over the nation. (Not the mention that with South By Southwest and Coachella run-off, the Southwest's concert calendar is looking pretty full.)
But we get it. The idea of bathing in the sun, of meeting interesting (intoxicated) strangers...it's a lot of fun. But Coachella isn't the only game in town. And, believe it or not, you might even manage to see a Coachella artist at a lower cost.
So dry those tears, folks, here's five worthwhile festivals worth the roadtrip (and you don't have to stop for gas in Quartzsite on the way).
Bonaroo: Music and Arts Festival
Bonaroo takes place in Manchester, Tennessee from June 7 - 10. With artist such as Childsh Gambino, The Beach Boys, Mimosa, Fitz & The Tantrums, and more you can only imagine what fun you are in for. Like Coachella, Bonaroo provides campgrounds, but also features silent raves. And oh yeah -- we're talking about The Beach Boys here.
McDowell Mountain Music Festival at Compound Grill
This year's lineup is looking pretty jammy, with Ozomatli, Galactic, Carolina Chocolate Drops, and dozens more taking to the turf, but boasts a charity theme and endless good vibes.
Taking place in Rothbury, Michigan from June 28 - July 1, and looks like a seriously good time. At night the trees are lit up, pretty much the forest becomes electric indeed. It's an EDM affair, with artists like Steve Aoki, Crizzly, Paper Diamond, and one of the best performances that I have ever seen: Big Gigantic.
Ozark, Arkansas is the home to Wakarusa. The event will kick off on May 31 - June 3. The line-up is decidedly eclectic; this not a place for mainstream music. So please take me here! Some of the artists include Adventure Club, Matisyahu, Girl Talk, and former McDowell Mountain Fest-band Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros.
Electic Daisy Carnival: Las Vegas
Coming from experience, Electric Daisy is an awesome time. It's an insomniac event which usually guarantees for an experience like no other. Held form June 8-10, the festival packs Vegas with ravers. There's even an option to purchase hotel reservation along with shuttle passes so you don't have to worry about driving back and forth. A night of lights, EDM, fireworks and all around a good time; who could complain? No need to worry if you can't make Vegas. EDC has other shows in Puerto Rico, New York, and more to be announced soon.
