Governor’s Ball
When: June 7-9
Where: Randall’s Island, New York
For the third year in a row, Governor’s Ball is bringing in the big crowd with all the artists that currently flood your Spotify playlists. With Kanye West, Kings of Leon and Guns and Roses as headliners, this festival guarantees three days of chill music (think The XX, alt-j, Of Monsters and Men) and also downright filthy beats (Pretty Lights or Crystal Castles, anyone?). Plus, there will be a silent disco, photo booths, and other games like (ping) pong to keep your energy high. To get to Randall’s Island, we recommend boarding the 15-minute ferry from the dock at Wall Street. So throw on your neon crop tops and get ready to rage in New York!
Firefly Music Festival
When: June 21-23
Where: Dover, Delaware
Firefly Festival is one for the eclectic. From Red Hot Chili Peppers and Vampire Weekend to rap artist Kendrick Lamar and even head-boppers like Ellie Goulding and Calvin Harris, the lineup for Firefly’s second annual festival is loaded. But why Delaware? In a former interview, festival director Greg Bostrom said, “We knew we wanted to create a one-of-a-kind music experience and searched many areas and venues on the East Coast. When we came to Dover and walked over to the space that is now The Woodlands, we knew we came to the right place.” Plus, if you’re a music junkie looking to scout new artists to add to your iTunes playlist, this one’s for you: Firefly’s bringing in up-and-coming artists like CHVRCHES and ZZ Ward. With a successful inauguration last July, Firefly is one east coast festival worth the investment.
Bonnaroo
When: June 13-16
Where: Manchester, Tennessee
There seldom are music festivals that congregate a diverse array of musical genres like Bonnaroo does. This four-day festival features indie rock, hip hop, country, reggae, electronica and that’s not even all. Dubbed one of the “50 Moments That Changed Rock & Roll” by Rolling Stone and “Festival of the Decade” by GQ, Bonnaroo feeds the suspense before the reveal of the artist lineup, and not once have they not delivered. This year, Bonnaroo is bringing in Paul McCartney, Mumford & Sons, Wu-Tang Clan,The National, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis and even “Weird Al” Yankovic. When else can you rage and chill with your favorite artists in the South?
Pitchfork
When: July 19-21
Where: Chicago, Illinois
This July, Pitchfork—everyone’s favorite music source—will be hosting its annual music festival featuring quality artists. At $50/one-day ticket or $120 for a 3-day pass, Pitchfork provides an affordable but energy-revving experience. From R. Kelly and Bjork to MIA and Toro Y. Moi, this is a festival worth marking on your calendar. Despite its wide-range of artists, Pitchfork didn’t stray too far from its indie aesthetic, with headliner Belle and Sebastian recently added to the lineup. For you gals who appreciate the gentle lull of Joanna Newsom or synth of TNGHT and Chairlift, Pitchfork has coordinated the ultimate music festival to whet your musical palette.
Lollapalooza
When: August 2-4
Where: Chicago, Illinois
End your summer with a bang with Lollapalooza, or “Lolla” for short. Every year, festival goers anticipate the lineup of alternative rock, electronic and hip hop artists, and this year is no different. Lolla’s booked classics like The Cure, The Killers, Postal Service, and everyone’s favorite, the beautiful Lana Del Rey, to rev everyone for this three-day experience. Besides prime music, Lolla also offers a Sony Electronic Lounge, Playstation Society tent (yes, for the PS3), an autograph tent, and a Play Room by Google Play. Of course, Lolla’s reputation for giving away free swag is the ultimate bonus.