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The United Kingdom is known for hosting a large number of music festivals, however, there are numerous events of various genres throughout Europe. Below are our top choices, ranging from “cave raves” in Malta to indie music under the midnight sun in Norway.
Primavera Sound
Can you tell me more about it? It’s a large, diverse festival featuring a modern lineup that continues throughout the night. After leaving at dawn, we will rest in an Airbnb, rejuvenate on the nearby nude beach, and then repeat the experience. That’s our intended plan.
Where can it be located? Barcelona, Spain.
What is the date? May 29th to June 2nd (there is also a version in Porto, Portugal from June 6th to 8th).
Which musicians are performing? Pulp, Lana Del Rey, the Last Dinner Party, Vampire Weekend, SZA, and numerous others.
What are people’s opinions on it? “The lineups are fantastic and the atmosphere is friendly.”
Earth Garden
What is this event? It is an unconventional (also known as “hippy”) festival that features a market, children’s park, dog park, relaxation area, and all the typical festival activities.
Could you tell me the location of Ta’ Qali national park in Malta?
What date is it? June 6th through June 9th.
Which artists will be performing? Dub FX, Infected Mushroom, Kula Shaker, and a DJ set from Groove Armada.
What is the general consensus on this event? “This festival is well-known for its exceptional lineup, lively dance floors, welcoming atmosphere, embraces, and enjoyable sunshine.”
The grassy fields among the mountains
What is the experience like? It is a combination of psychedelic energy and mountain views, with a limited crowd of 3,000 attendees and breathtaking sunrises as a bonus.
Where can it be found? In Bulgaria, near the Greek border, lies the breathtaking village of Polkovnik Serafimovo nestled in the Rhodope mountains.
What is the date? June 6th to 10th.
Who will be performing? Anatolian Weapons, Walrus, Nathalia Nyn, and Bruno Schmidt.
What is the general consensus? “Despite its cringeworthy reputation, Meadows in the Mountains is more than just a festival; it’s a holistic experience.”
Best Kept Secret
What is this? It’s a grand spectacle set on a lake, featuring multiple stages and encompassing various genres.
Can you tell me the location of the Safaripark Beekse Bergen in Hilvarenbeek, the Netherlands?
What date is it? June 7-9.
Which artists are performing? Jockstrap, Disclosure, PJ Harvey, and Paolo Nutini.
What is the general opinion of this event? “This festival is like a smaller version of Primavera, with a fantastic lineup and atmosphere.”
Sónar
What is the event about? It is a festival that showcases dance and electronic music, divided into four sections – “by day”, “by night”, and a technology/panel discussion segment where topics such as bitcoin and AI are discussed.
Where can it be found? Barcelona, Spain.
When will it be? June 13-15.
Who will be performing? Air will be playing songs from “Moon Safari,” along with Vince Staples, Floating Points, and Jessie Ware.
What is the general opinion on this? “Is there a more intense festival than this one?”
Roskilde
What does it involve? Beginning in 1971 as the idealistic vision of two Danish students, Roskilde has evolved into a renowned festival in Europe. And if the musical acts aren’t sufficient, on Sunday there is a tradition of a bare run around the festival grounds.
Where can it be found? It is located in Roskilde, Denmark.
What is the date? June 29th – July 6th. The event spans over a week, with performances by Danish bands at the beginning followed by international acts over the weekend.
Who will be performing? Approximately 180 artists, including Skrillex, Foo Fighters, Doja Cat, Romy, and others, will be announced.
What are people’s opinions on it? “The festival’s lineup is unmatched and, in my perspective, is greatly underestimated in the mainstream festival scene. Additionally, Roskilde is surprisingly well-maintained and organized – even the unhealthy food tastes nutritious.”
Open’er
What is this event? A prominent festival known for attracting renowned performers.
Where can it be found? Gdynia is located on the northern coast of Poland.
What is the date? July 3-6.
Who is performing? The lineup includes Foo Fighters, Dua Lipa, Doja Cat, Ice Spice, and Michael Kiwanuka.
What is the general opinion of this place? “The airport in this serene and charming part of Europe is impressively compact.”
Rock Werchter
What is it? A festival that has been ongoing since 1976.
Where can it be found? It is located in Werchter, Belgium.
What is the date? July 4th to July 7th.
Who is performing? The artists are Idles, Dua Lipa, Avril Lavigne, and Lenny Kravitz.
What is the general opinion about it? “Achieves a delicate equilibrium between well-known, established performers and up-and-coming talent poised to take their place.”
Mad Cool
What is this event? It is a widely diverse festival (with an unfortunate name) that boasts impressive lineups featuring popular performers.
Where can it be found? Madrid, Spain.
What date is it? July 10th-13th.
Which artists are performing? The Killers, Måneskin, Dua Lipa (once more), and Pearl Jam.
What are people’s opinions on it? “An almost flawless journey for music lovers throughout Europe.”
Exit
What is this event? It’s a festival held in a fort since 2000 that focuses on music at the heavier end of the spectrum. The theme for this year is “uniting our inner strengths” which likely involves moshing to intense music.
Where can it be found? The city of Petrovaradin in Serbia, known for its rich history.
When will it take place? July 10-14.
Who is performing? The lineup includes Black Eyed Peas, Gucci Mane, Tom Morello, and additional artists to be revealed.
What is the general opinion on it? “A popular destination for drum and bass and techno music in the Balkans.”
Love International
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What does it entail? It is a seven-day event featuring dance music held at a seaside vacation spot. Attendees can enjoy beach parties, boat parties, all-night raves, and early morning “sunrise sessions”.
Where can it be found? Tisno, Croatia.
What is the date range? July 10th to July 16th.
Who will be performing? Artists such as Artwork, Charlie Bones, Josh Caffé, OK Williams, Zen Arcade, and numerous other DJs.
What is the general consensus about it? “The days seem to blend together into a continuous stream of afternoons and evenings.”
Melt
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What is this? A massive party in Germany.
Where can it be found? Similar to the entire festival, it takes place at Ferropolis, allowing you to admire the impressive industrial equipment while enjoying the energetic industrial music.
What is the date? July 11-13.
Who will be performing? The lineup includes 150 artists such as Skepta, Sugababes, Freddy K, Honey Dijon, and Art School Girlfriend.
What is the general opinion on it? “The website is exceptional, with a combination of beauty and harshness found in a deserted quarry an hour away from Berlin. There are several moments throughout the weekend that I will always remember.”
Nos Alive
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What is this event? It is a relatively small festival that includes a stage for fado music and another for up-and-coming Portuguese bands, as well as performances by well-known international artists.
Where can it be found? Passeio Marítimo de Algés, located along the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal – providing the option to rest in an Airbnb instead of camping.
When is the event occurring? July 11th to 13th.
Who will be performing? The lineup includes Arcade Fire, Floating Points, Pearl Jam (whose hit song “Alive” inspired the festival’s name), and the highly sought-after Dua Lipa.
What is the general opinion on it? “Nos Alive has a great ability to fit a large amount of local and international talent into small venues.”
Colours of Ostrava
What is this event? It is the largest music festival in the Czech Republic.
Where can it be found? A location in Ostrava that used to be a coal and ironworks site. It is possible to ascend the watchtowers.
What is the date? July 17-20.
Who will be performing? Lenny Kravitz, James Blake, Gogol Bordello, and Mitsune.
What are others’ opinions? “The lines for drinks were efficient, the staff was incredibly helpful, safety measures were top-notch, and I did not witness anyone becoming overly upset or intoxicated. As someone familiar with British festivals, this truly impressed me!”
Fib Benicassim
What is Festival Internacional Benicàssim? This rock festival, which has been ongoing since the 1990s, also includes a campsite and a backstage swimming pool.
Where can it be found? The location is the Benicàssim seaside resort. To get there, you need to fly to Valencia airport and then travel a significant distance by car.
What day is it? July 18-20.
Who is performing? The lineup includes The Libertines, Royal Blood, Yungblud, and Miles Kane…you understand.
What is the general opinion? “I went with a group of 10 individuals, all 18 years old, and we had a great time! However, the campsite was very dusty and we couldn’t secure our tent with pegs because the ground was concrete.”
Bukta
What is the event? It is a laid-back festival held in a beautiful location, featuring performances from local bands and unconventional artists.
Where can it be found? Trømsøya Island is located at the northernmost tip of Norway, only 1,367 miles from the Arctic Circle. This allows for the unique experience of experiencing sunlight at midnight, so remember to bring warm clothing.
What date is it? July 19-20.
Who is performing? The lineup includes The War on Drugs, the Sha-La-Lee’s, Kvelertak, and Heave Blood & Die.
What is the general opinion? “A festival taking place in the northernmost city with a brewery will not offer Heineken.”
Parookaville
What is this event? A grand and massive dance music festival with intricate designs.
Where can it be found? Weeze airport is located in Germany, close to the Netherlands border.
What date is it? July 19th-21st.
Who is performing? The lineup includes Armin van Buuren, Martin Solveig, Angerfist, Timmy Trumpet, and more artists to be announced.
What are people saying about it? “Parookaville features a variety of themed stages, including Bill’s Factory, a sprawling industrial stage with smoke stacks that also serve as a pyrotechnic show. Another popular stage is the Brainwash – a local laundromat in Parookaville that provides suds for your clothes while DJs perform on a unique booth made from washing machines.”
Whole
Can you explain? This is a unique music festival that unites various club groups. It is so unique that it even has its own designated areas for personal hygiene and socializing.
Where can it be found? Ferropolis, a former coal mining area transformed into an outdoor museum showcasing industrial equipment, located near Gräfenhainichen, Germany.
What is the date? August 2nd to 5th.
Who is performing? The Blessed Madonna, Juliana Huxtable, Roi Perez, and a DJ going by the name of DJ Fuckoff.
What is the general feedback about it? “The community workshops provide lessons on ‘genital renaming’ and ‘hormone-induced highs’. A designated area for Flinta individuals (female, lesbian, intersex, trans, and agender) is created for intimate, enjoyable, and consensual interactions.”
Punk Rock Holiday
Can you explain? It’s a music festival for headbangers that includes bands, skateboarding, and a beach with unobstructed stages for stagediving.
Where can it be found? It is located on the Sotočje peninsula in Tolmin, Slovenia.
What date is it? August 6th-9th.
Which bands are performing? Alkaline Trio, Flogging Molly, Death by Stereo, and Charlie Bit My Finger.
What is the general consensus? “All the rumors are accurate. Incredible landscapes, sunny weather and stunning beaches. Non-stop punk rock, intense hardcore and wild stagedives.”
Sziget festival
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Can you describe it? A large and slightly wild festival with live music, amusement park attractions, and a very psychedelic setting known as the Luminarium.
Where can it be found? It is situated on an island in the Danube River in Budapest.
When will it take place? It will last for almost a week from 7-12 August.
Who is performing? The lineup includes Four Tet, Louis Tomlinson, Stormzy, Yard Act, and the fittingly named Fred Again.
What is the general opinion about Sziget? “Sziget is the most culturally diverse festival I have ever attended. When talking to someone, you never know where they may be from. Unless, of course, they are waving, holding, or wearing a large flag as a cape.”
Way Out West
What is it? A large, prominent event with a focus on sustainability – it stirred controversy in 2012 by becoming fully vegetarian.
Where can it be found? It is located in a spacious park in Gothenburg, Sweden. Once the primary location closes for the evening, the festivities continue at different locations throughout the city.
What is the date? August 8-10.
Who are the featured performers? Sampha, Big Thief, Queens of the Stone Age, J Hus, and additional acts to be revealed.
What is the general opinion on this? “Way Out West has managed to incorporate a variety of progressive methods and concepts in what feels like a personal event, establishing themselves as a great illustration of how festivals and the music industry as a whole can thrive and have a positive impact on a more environmentally-friendly world.”
Untold
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What is this? A massive electronic dance music festival that welcomed over 100,000 party-goers per night last year.
Where can it be found? Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
What is the date? August 8-11.
Who will be performing? Sam Smith and Swedish House Mafia have been revealed, while the other acts remain a secret.
What is the general opinion? “The attendees throughout the weekend are welcoming, amicable, and fully engaged.”
Flow
What is the event? It is a unique festival featuring a diverse range of performances, discussions, and film showings.
Where can it be found? Helsinki, Finland.
What day is it? August 9th-11th.
Which artists are performing? Raye, Idles, Blonde Redhead, PJ Harvey, Pulp, and Knife Girl.
What is the general opinion on it? “Flow is considered the hidden gem among European festivals, relying on its exceptional lineup and cutting-edge appeal to make a statement. It is often regarded as the festival of tomorrow.”
Glitch
Can you tell me about it? This event is an EDM festival that includes “cave raves”, boat parties, pool parties, and various other exciting rave activities.
Where can it be found? Malta.
What date is it? August 13-16.
Who is performing? FKA.M4A, Brutalismus 3000, Ben Klock, Ki/Ki, horsegiirL and others.
What is the general opinion on this matter? “I believe the crucial factor in fully enjoying the experience is making transportation arrangements for afterwards. It’s truly terrible if it ends up ruining the entire weekend.”
Paredes de Coura
What is the event? A celebration in Portugal that showcases indie rock music and has been around since 1993. It offers a peaceful and scenic atmosphere by the river, perfect for relaxing after dancing in the crowd.
Where can it be found? It is located at Praia do Taboão in Paredes de Coura, Portugal.
When will it take place? August 14th to 17th.
Who is performing? The lineup includes Fontaines DC, the Jesus and Mary Chain, Cat Power, and Sleater-Kinney.
What is the general consensus? “There were minimal lines (with the exception of peak hour food), the majority of the grass remained green throughout the festival as expected, and the shows did not feel overly crowded.”
Pukkelpop
What is this event? It is a three-day festival with numerous bands and an estimated attendance of 180,000 people.
Where can it be found? Hasselt, a small town in Belgium that is likely unaware of what is happening.
When will it take place? August 15th-18th.
Who is performing? Fred Again, Stormzy, Sam Smith, Skrillex, and the band The Smile.
What is the general consensus on this? “People of all ages enjoy the great atmosphere, great sound, pleasant weather, no lines, and variety of music!”
Electric Picnic
Can you tell me about it? This festival features music, art, theatre, comedy, and other cultural experiences in addition to live musical performances – essentially, it’s like the Irish version of Glastonbury. Tickets are currently sold out.
Where can it be found? Stradbally Hall, located in County Laois, Ireland.
What date is it? August 16-18.
Who is performing? To be determined. The previous year featured Billie Eilish, the Killers, and Wet Leg.
What are people’s thoughts on it? “The atmosphere and enthusiasm at this year’s festival were truly remarkable to experience.”
Rototom Sunsplash
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What is this event? It is a reggae festival featuring six stages, a Rastafari tent, and a unique attraction called the Reggae University.
Where can it be found? After relocating several times over time, it has finally established itself in the seaside destination of Benicàssim, Spain.
When will it take place? August 16th to 21st.
Who will be performing? It has not been announced yet. In the previous year, artists such as Burning Spear, Capleton, and UB40 were among those who performed on stage.
What is the general consensus on the matter? “The atmosphere of freedom and love at Rototom Village (the campsite) is truly incredible. I don’t just make friends at Rototom, I make lifelong connections. Even if you’re not a fan of reggae music, there are endless activities to enjoy.”
Rock en Seine
What is this event? It is a traditional alternative rock festival that has been running for 20 years, although there were complaints of overcrowding last year.
Where can it be found? The Parc de Saint-Cloud is located west of Paris.
What is the date? August 21st to 25th.
Who is performing? LCD Soundsystem, Massive Attack, Baxter Dury, the Kills, the Last Dinner Party, and Fred Again will be there.
What is the general opinion? “Rock en Seine takes pride in the wide range of nationalities and genres represented by its artists.”
The jazz festival in Reykjavík
What is the event? It is a festival that is gaining recognition for showcasing jazz in all its various styles.
Where can it be found? Reykjavík, the main city of Iceland, offers the unique experience of listening to jazz music with a view of active volcanoes.
When will it take place? August 28th through 31st.
Who is performing? The roster has not been revealed, but last year’s lineup featured the Nordic Quintet, Daníel Helgason, and Cathrine Legardh.
What are people’s opinions on it? “It encompasses a diverse array of musical styles, from popular to frenzied.”
Meo Kalorama
Can you explain what this is? It’s a new festival that has received great reviews in its first two years. The lineup is impressive and although it’s smaller than other festivals, it’s also more affordable (145 euros for three days).
Where can it be found? The park named Bella Vista in Lisbon, Portugal.
When is the date? August 29-31, marking the end of summer.
Who will be performing? This year’s consistent artists include LCD Soundsystem, Sam Smith, Peggy Gou, Yard Act, and the Smile.
What are people’s thoughts on this? “As the weekend comes to a close, the other individuals in the crowd start to feel like familiar faces and everyone attending experiences a deep sense of unity and connectedness – something that is gradually disappearing as festivals become more focused on profit and overcrowding.”
Mysteryland
What is this event? It is the largest dance festival in the Netherlands, founded in 1993, and attended by approximately 100,000 ravers.
Where can it be found? The Haarlemmermeerse Bos, a spacious park in Haarlemmermeer that, unlike most of the Netherlands, features a hill and offers a lookout point.
When is the event taking place? August 30th to September 1st.
Who will be performing? There will be approximately 300 artists on 22 stages, all adorned with mesmerizing psychedelic designs.
“What is the general consensus on this? Some have stated that it is not just a typical music festival, but rather an all-encompassing artistic journey.”
ION
What is the event? A large, traditional Balkan party featuring cutting-edge DJs.
Where can it be found? Dhërmi, located on the scenic Albanian coast.
When will it take place? The dates are September 4th to 11th. Don’t worry, summer is not ending yet! Just remember to take it easy, as this is a full week.
Who are the performers? The lineup includes Batu, Bobby Scallop, Mother of Mankind, Yung Singh, and the returning DJ Fuckoff.
What is the public’s opinion on it? “Individuals are welcome to join hour-long yoga classes with a view of the beach, or the lesser-known ‘cacao experience’ where participants can sample raw cacao known for its natural stimulating effects.”
Iceland Airwaves
What is this? A festival with a variety of genres for those who want to continue the festival atmosphere throughout the winter season.
Where can it be found? Many locations in the city center of Reykjavík.
What date is it? November 7th-9th. Brr!
Who is performing? Some of the artists include Shygirl, Bar Italia, Joy (Anonymous), and Klemens Hannigan.
What is the general consensus on it? “Iceland Airwaves achieves success by embracing the culture and history of Reykjavík and amplifying it through featuring some of the most innovative new acts from around the world.”
Le Guess Who?
What is this event? It is the most notable experimental music festival since the peak of All Tomorrow’s Parties, organized by various guest artists and showcasing a variety of unexpected performers.
Where can it be found? Multiple locations in Utrecht.
What is the date? November 7th to 10th.
Who is performing? The lineup and curators have not been announced yet.
What are people’s opinions on it? “Le Guess Who? stands out among festivals by featuring acts that have intentionally stayed under the radar, established a following at home without gaining attention abroad, or are on the verge of breaking out.”
Source: theguardian.com
