Global Festival Guide: 28 Events, 12 Cities, One Amazing Bucket List

From pulsating beats to breathtaking performances, we bring you a curated selection of festivals happening across the summer that will leave you with unforgettable memories. We’re exploring the diverse tapestry of cultures, traditions, and joyous gatherings happening in 12 cities around the world.

MILAN, ITALY

Milano Latin Festival

Experience the vibrant return of Milano Latin Festival to the Lombard capital, an enchanting journey into the captivating cultures of Latin American and Caribbean countries. Join us for the 2023 edition, hosted all summer long at the Ticketmaster Arena in Viale Milanofiori (Assago). Get ready for a sensational lineup of renowned artists who will elevate MLF to new heights!

For over three decades, MLF has been the ultimate music festival of the Milanese summer, celebrating culture, gastronomy, traditions, crafts, and, of course, the joy of dancing to the infectious rhythms of reggaeton, trap, dembow, bachata, and salsa. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary fusion of sounds and experiences!

I-Days Milano Coca-Cola

Date: 22 June – 15 July

Headliners: Florence + The Machine, Foals, Rosalìa, Paolo Nutini, Interpol, Travis Scott, The Black Keys, Liam Gallagher, RHCP, Arctic Monkeys

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival, Family-friendly

Get ready for an electrifying comeback of I-Days Milano Coca-Cola, Italy’s premier festival for independent music lovers. In 2023, the event returns for an unforgettable edition at the iconic Ippodromo SNAI in Milan.

Since its inception in 1999, I-Days Milano Coca-Cola has been a beacon for exceptional rock music, attracting headliners like Arcade Fire, Arctic Monkeys, Blink 182, Green Day, Imagine Dragons, Justin Bieber, Kasabian, Liam Gallagher, Linkin Park, Manu Chao, Muse, Nine Inch Nails, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Pearl Jam, Placebo, Queens Of The Stone Age, Radiohead, Sigur Ros, Sonic Youth, The Killers, The Offspring, Tool, and Velvet Revolver.

Prepare yourself for the 19th edition of I-Days Milano Coca-Cola, taking place between June and July at the newly announced location, the Ippodromo SNAI. Delight in an extraordinary lineup curated especially for rock enthusiasts, promising an exhilarating experience like no other.

ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Rolling Loud Rotterdam

Date: 30 June – 1 July

Headliners: Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival

Immerse yourself in the world of international hip-hop as Rolling Loud takes over Rotterdam Ahoy on 30 June 30 and 1 July. This two-day festival promises an unforgettable experience with a lineup showcasing the finest hip-hop talent from around the globe. They welcome the incomparable Kendrick Lamar as their headliner. From his groundbreaking debut album ‘good kid, m.A.A.d. city’ to his latest release ‘Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers,’ Lamar has solidified his position as the undisputed “king of hip-hop” with his remarkable technical prowess and thought-provoking lyrics. Prepare to be captivated by his ingenious fusion of theatre, dance, and awe-inspiring rap during his sensational live tour.

They also have the incredible Travis Scott taking the spotlight. This American superstar needs no introduction, having already left an indelible mark with his electrifying performances at WOO HAH! in 2017 and 2019. With his chart-topping album ‘ASTROWORLD’ and recent collaborations with the likes of Drake and Pharrell Williams, Travis Scott has cemented his status as one of today’s leading rap artists. Get ready for an explosive showcase of his boundless energy and infectious stage presence.

North Sea Jazz

Date: 7 – 9 July

Headliners: Stormzy, Lizzo, Tom Jones

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival, Family-friendly

Step into the world’s largest indoor music festival, the NN North Sea Jazz Festival, where the past, present, and future of jazz come alive over three extraordinary days. This globally renowned event not only celebrates jazz but also showcases an incredible range of genres including blues, soul, funk, hip hop, world music, pop, and much more. Prepare to be mesmerized by both established names and new discoveries.

This year, they’ve announced the addition of phenomenal artists such as Lizzo, Stormzy, and Tom Jones, who will grace the stage. Joining them are an array of incredible performers including Buddy Guy, Gabriels, Jacob Banks, Jill Scott, Little Simz, Loyle Carner, The Teskey Brothers, and Van Morrison. Furthermore, the festival pays homage to jazz legends with the legendary Jan Garbarek, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, and the mesmerizing Pat Metheny Side-Eye.

SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL 

The Town

Date: 2 – 10 September

Headliners: Bruno Mars, Foo Fighters, Post Malone and Maroon 5

Features: Day tickets, City festival, New festival, Family-friendly

From the same creators of Rock in Rio, one of the biggest festivals in the world, The Town make its debut in São Paulo and it’s already the largest music, culture and art festival in the state. During five days of fun with more than 235 hours of music happening on six stages, more than 500,000 people will enjoy musical attractions, extreme rides such as the iconic zip line and the best of São Paulo’s gastronomy.

Bruno Mars, Foo Fighters, Post Malone and Maroon 5 are set to play at the main stage with tickets for Bruno Mars – who is playing two nights by popular demand – and Foo Fighters selling out in just three hours.

MUNICH, GERMANY 

SUPERBLOOM

Date: 2 – 3 September

Headliners: Imagine Dragon, Martin Garrix, Jason Derulo, Ellie Goulding, Ava Max, The Blaze, Years & Years, Dermot Kennedy, Sam Fender, Zara Larsson, Lost Frequencies, Giant Rooks

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival, Hotel packages, Family-friendly

After a glorious premiere this summer, the brand new Superbloom festival is coming back to Munich in 2023. The first acts for SUPERBLOOM 2023 are out! Feel “on Top of the World” with power band Imagine Dragons, EDM superstar Martin Garrix and the angelic voice of Ellie Goulding. We also can’t wait to get crazy with Marteria and finally dance with ‘King’ Years & Years. 

You can also look forward to partying with Zara Larsson, Giant Rooks, Badmómzjay, Cat Burns, Ski Aggu, Paula Hartmann, and many more! And the MiniBloom lineup is ready for our youngest festival-goers, starring Heavysaurus, Dikka and more. The best news: The limited tickets for 6- to 15-year-olds are free for SUPERBLOOM 2023 (available only in combination with an other ticket category)!

Rolling Loud Germany

Date: 7 – 9 July

Headliners: Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, Wizkid, Lil Durk, Latto, GloRilla, Gucci Mane, Joey Bada$$, Central Cee, M Huncho, Fireboy DML, Ayra Starr, Kodak Black

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival, Hotel packages

Rolling Loud’s mission is to bring the best and brightest artists in hip-hop to an international audience. Led by headliners Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, and WizKid, the inaugural Rolling Loud Germany brings one of the festival’s most impressive lineups yet to Bavaria. Promising performances by some of the most exciting names in global music, Rolling Loud Germany makes its highly-anticipated debut at Messe München in the Bavarian capital.

Founded by six-time Billboard Hip-Hop Power Players Matt Zingler and Tariq Cherif, the festival has grown from a humble one-day celebration in Miami to become a massive global attraction, with numerous events spanning multiple continents. The international success of Rolling Loud is a testament to hip-hop’s immense global appeal. The announcement of Rolling Loud Germany is the latest in a series of three European Rolling Loud festivals.

FRAUENFELD, SWITZERLAND

Openair Frauenfeld

Date: 6 – 8 July

Headliners: Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, Wizkid, Stormzy, Luciano

Features: Camping, Day tickets, VIP upgrades

Prepare for an unforgettable experience at Europe’s most vibrant hip-hop festival, the Openair Frauenfeld (OAF). Get ready to immerse yourself in an authentic celebration of music and culture as OAF returns with an international lineup featuring the likes of Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, Luciano, and many more incredible artists. This year’s edition promises to be the ultimate hip-hop celebration. But that’s not all – OAF is expanding its offerings with five pre-shows on Wednesday, 5 July, showcasing even more phenomenal talent. 

With around 30 acts per day, there will be no shortage of electrifying performances to keep you entertained. Join up to 50,000 music enthusiasts each day as they gather at the festival’s sprawling camping area, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and excitement. Since its inception in 2004, OAF has captured the essence of a truly unique lifestyle – a perfect blend of freedom, non-stop partying, incredible concerts, and unforgettable encounters.

HELSINKI, FINLAND

Tuska

Date: 30 June – 2 July

Headliners: Ghost, VV, Gojira, Arch Enemy, In Flames, The Hu

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival

A metal extravaganza like no other, Tuska is Finland’s longest-living metal festival! From 30 June to 2 July, Helsinki’s legendary Suvilahti event park will be transformed into a haven for metalheads. This beloved annual gathering is celebrating its 24th year, showcasing the evolution from a small club festival to the grand party venue it is today. Join over 49,000 festival-goers as they unite for three days of pure metal bliss.

Tuska is renowned for its meticulously curated lineup, featuring the most captivating heavy music acts. But it’s not just about the music – Tuska offers an atmosphere that’s truly one of a kind, creating a tight-knit community of metal enthusiasts. Prepare to be blown away by headliners such as Ghost, VV (Ville Valo), Gojira, Arch Enemy, In Flames, and The Hu, delivering mind-blowing performances that will leave you craving for more.

Flow Festival

Date: 11-13 August

Headliners: Lorde, Blur, Wizkid, Christine & The Queens, Tove Lo, Devo & Pusha T

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival

Immerse yourself in the heart of Helsinki’s vibrant urban landscape at Flow Festival, the ultimate boutique city festival. Since its inception in 2004, Flow Festival has transformed from a small club event into a trailblazing European music and arts extravaganza. From 11 to 13 August, Suvilahti in Helsinki will come alive with an electrifying celebration of music and culture. Flow Festival prides itself on offering a carefully curated and content-driven programme inspired by popular culture and experimental arts. Prepare to be entertained by an international lineup featuring the biggest stars of pop and indie music, top-notch DJ and club acts, and groundbreaking experimental sounds from both Finland and around the globe.

But Flow Festival is not just about the music; it’s a complete sensory experience. Indulge in the delectable offerings from high-quality restaurants, immerse yourself in the thoughtfully designed festival area, and embrace the festival’s strong commitment to sustainability and responsibility. Get ready to be enchanted by headliners like Lorde, Blur, Wizkid, Christine & The Queens, Tove Lo, Devo, and Pusha T as they deliver unforgettable performances that will leave you inspired and energized.

NEW YORK / NEW JERSEY

Catbird Music Festival

Date: 19 – 20 August

Headliners: The Lumineers, Tyler Childers, The War on Drugs, Band of Horses, Trey Anastasio Band

Features: Camping, Day tickets, VIP upgrades, Family-friendly

Catbird Music Festival is gearing up for its inaugural edition, a two-day camping event set to take place on 19 and 20 August at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Bethel, NY.

This historic field, famously known for hosting the original 1969 Woodstock Music & Art Fair, will once again welcome campers and music lovers. Catbird promises an extraordinary experience, combining exceptional live music, local food and spirits and various glamping options amidst the majestic natural surroundings imbued with cultural significance.

The festival boasts a star-studded lineup featuring 22 diverse artists across two stages. Headliners include The Lumineers, Tyler Childers, The War on Drugs and Trey Anastasio Band, along with other notable acts like Band of Horses, Dispatch, Trampled By Turtles, Charley Crockett, Margo Price and Amos Lee. 

Festivalgoers can also explore The Museum at Bethel Woods, which offers an immersive experience with authentic artifacts, interactive media and even a psychedelic bus dedicated to the 1969 Woodstock festival. This provides an opportunity to delve into the cultural significance of the era.

Catbird Music Festival promises to be an unforgettable event, combining world-class performances, unique camping experiences and a connection to the iconic history of the Woodstock festival.

TidalWave Festival

Date: 11 – 13 August

Headliners: Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell, Jason Aldean, Dustin Lynch, Brooks & Dunn, Randy Houser, Jelly Roll

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival, Hotel packages

Another incredible year in on the horizon as TidalWave Music Festival makes its highly anticipated return in 2023. Taking place from 11 to 13 August, this beachside extravaganza will once again grace the Atlantic City Beach in New Jersey. The festival has already announced an impressive lineup of headliners, including the country music sensations Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn and Thomas Rhett.

The main stage at TidalWave will showcase a stellar array of performances by a talented roster of artists. Prepare to be captivated by the likes of Cooper Alan, Mitchell Tenpenny, Randy Houser, Corey Kent, Dustin Lynch, Jo Dee Messina, Cole Swindell, Jelly Roll, Lily Rose, Dylan Scott, Priscilla Block, Lindsay Ell, Nate Smith, Hailey Whitters and the incomparable DeeJay Silver.

In addition to the main stage, TidalWave is committed to introducing fans to the next wave of Nashville’s finest country acts. The second stage, known as “Next from Nashville,” will feature an electrifying lineup of emerging talents. Expect to be blown away by the performances of George Birge, John Morgan, Madeline Edwards, Ben Burgess, Dylan Marlowe, Chase McDaniel, Mackenzie Carpenter, Megan Moroney, Pillbox Patti, MacKenzie Porter, Peytan Porter, Aaron Raitiere, Lauren Watkins and Jake Worthington. The stage will also feature a special performance by the legendary Ray Wylie Hubbard.

With its picturesque beach setting and a lineup that blends established stars with rising talent, TidalWave Music Festival promises an unforgettable experience for country music enthusiasts. Prepare to soak up the sun, enjoy incredible music and create lasting memories at this sensational event.

SeaHearNow

Date: 16 – 17 September

Headliners: The Killers, Greta Van Fleet, Sheryl Crow, Foo Fighters, Weezer

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades

Get ready for an incredible lineup at Sea.Hear.Now 2023! This world-class festival will feature performances by Foo Fighters, The Killers, Greta Van Fleet, Weezer, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Mt. Joy, Sheryl Crow, The Beach Boys, and more

Taking place on 16 and 17 September, at North Beach Asbury Park and Bradley Park in Ashbury Park, NJ, the festival will showcase over 25 artists across three stages. In addition to the music, there will be a thrilling surf contest and a celebration of the arts.

The North Beach Rumble surf contest will bring together top surfers from the East Coast in a team format, competing for style and creativity. Stoke Henge, curated by visual artist Pork Chop, will serve as the festival’s visual centerpiece, featuring iconic jellyfish and surfboard arches. Jersey Shore artist Jay Alders will present his ocean-themed display, accompanied by works from local artists. The Transparent Gallery in Bradley Park will showcase artwork from participating musicians, along with special pop-up performances.

Sea.Hear.Now 2023 promises to be an unforgettable experience for music and art lovers alike.

PARIS, FRANCE 

Lollapalooza Paris

Date: 21 – 23 July

Headliners: Stray Kids, Rosalia, Kendrick Lamar, Lil Nas X, Aya Nakamura, Central Cee, Kygo, Niall Horan, Damso, Niska, OneRepublic

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, Family-friendly

Lollapalooza – five syllables that tell the story of the biggest festival in the world, which settled in 2017 at the heart of the Hippodrome ParisLongchamp, giving birth to LollaParis. LollaParis is the meeting place for your favorite artists, those you know inside out, and all the others you will discover and put at the top of your next playlists.

LollaParis also embraces French gastronomy with LollaChef, a one-way ticket to the happiness of your taste buds, sponsored since the first edition by Jean Imbert. He will be accompanied by world-renowned pastry chef Cédric Grolet, who has also been present since the first days. It is also the meeting place for the best of street food and flavors from around the world. 

This year, LollaParis will celebrate its fifth edition and you will have three days to enjoy the best the world has to offer and enjoy a truly unique experience.

Brunch Electronik

Date: 16 – 17 September

Headliners: Carl Cox, Paul Kalkbrenner, Joseph Capriati, Mathame, KAS:ST

Features: Day tickets, Tickets under €50

After an incredible first edition in 2017, Brunch Electronik is making a comeback in Paris!

Born 10 years ago in Barcelona, it brings together families and electronic music lovers on Sundays in an emblematic open-air city park. It then set out to conquer other European cities: Madrid, Lisbon, Malaga, Lima, and Paris.

This nomadic festival brings together a friendly and inclusive audience at each event, who share the values that Brunch Electronik defends and respects. The Brunch is a space where everyone can feel free.

For this new edition, the Electronik Brunch extends over two days at the famous Hippodrome ParisLongchamp with an enviable line up.

ISTANBUL, TURKEY 

Istanbul Festival

Date: 21 July – 6 August 

Headliners: Turkey’s most famous bands & artists

Features: Day tickets

Get ready for an incredible experience at the Istanbul Festival, where the stage comes alive with Turkey’s most beloved artists, surprise performances, and mesmerizing stage shows. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of creativity with exciting children’s workshops and thrilling esports tournaments. Indulge your taste buds with unique culinary delights that will leave you craving for more. Join in for 17 unforgettable days and be part of the magic at the Istanbul Festival. 

İstanbul Cocktail Festival 2023

Date: 5 – 6 August

Headliners: Mert Demir, Selin Geçit, Elderbrook Live, Emir Taha

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades

Indulge in a world of tantalizing flavours and vibrant experiences at the Istanbul Cocktail Festival! Sip on the most popular and creative concoctions from renowned cocktail experts and food enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the thrilling performances by influential artists, both local and global, as they take the stage. Explore the unique design products showcased by exclusive boutiques and engage in a variety of exciting activities and games that will keep the fun going all day long. The Istanbul Cocktail Festival is the ultimate destination for cocktail lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

MilyonFest Istanbul 2023

Date: 6 – 9 July

Headliners: Turkey’s most famous bands & artists

Features: Camping, Day tickets, Tickets under €50, City festival

Expect an electrifying extravaganza as Millionfest Istanbul takes the stage! Presented by the incredible Million Production Organisation, led by the visionary Umut Kuzey, this event is set to ignite the city this summer. Prepare to be blown away by four days of non-stop entertainment, featuring an impressive lineup of talented artists and performers. From pulsating music to captivating shows, Millionfest Istanbul guarantees an unforgettable experience for all. 

LONDON, UK 

Gopuff delivers Wireless

Date: 6 – 9 July 

Headliners: Playboi Carti, Travis Scott, D Block Europe

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of music as Wireless Festival returns with an electrifying bang! It’s Europe’s biggest celebration of black music, bringing you the hottest artists from around the globe for an unforgettable experience. 

From iconic chart-toppers to rising stars, the lineup features the world’s biggest artists who are guaranteed to leave you in awe. Get lost in the infectious rhythms and sing along to your favorite anthems.

This is more than just a music festival — it’s a celebration of diversity, unity, and the incredible impact of black music on the world stage. Feel the energy of the crowd, embrace the positive vibes, and create memories that will last a lifetime. 

South Facing

Date: 28 July – 13 August 

Headliners: Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Johnny Marr, Raver Tots, Primal Scream, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Rudimental, James, Happy Mondays, First Aid Kit, CMAT, Craig David, Nathan Dawe

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival, Family-friendly

Experience the historic magic at Crystal Palace Bowl for South Facing, a multi-day festival. With a rich legacy of hosting legendary acts like Elton John, Pink Floyd, and The Beach Boys, this annual summer event is a must-attend. Enjoy this picturesque venue as it comes alive with sensational performances from chart-topping artists and emerging talents. Dance under the stars, indulge in delectable food and drink offerings, and create lasting memories with a vibrant community of music enthusiasts. 

Reading Festival

Date: 25 – 27 August

Headliners: Billie Eilish, Sam Fender, Foals, The Killers, Imagine Dragons, Lewis Capaldi

Features: Day tickets, VIP upgrades

It’s the ultimate music extravaganza at Reading and Leeds Festivals, twin festivals happening simultaneously on the same UK bank holiday weekend. These events are a music lover’s dream come true. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience featuring a diverse lineup of incredible artists spanning rock, pop, hip hop, grime, dance, and indie genres. 

But that’s not all! Prepare to be entertained beyond the music with comedy shows, theatrical performances, captivating art installations, immersive cinema experiences, silent discos, and thrilling funfair rides. The festival grounds will be buzzing with non-stop excitement and entertainment, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

OSLO, NORWAY

Tons of Rock

Date: 21 – 24 June

Headliners: Guns n’ Roses, Volbeat, Nightwish, Ghost, Pantera, Iggy Pop, Kvelertak

Features: Camping, Day tickets, VIP upgrades, City festival

Experience the power and excitement of Norway’s biggest metal and rock festival – Tons of Rock! Over the course of eight incredible years, this event has evolved into a must-attend gathering for rock and metal enthusiasts from all over. Serving as an annual meeting point for the passionate rock and metal community in Norway, Tons of Rock has solidified its status as a landmark festival. Drawing an impressive crowd of over 80,000 visitors in 2022, it stands proudly as one of the largest music festivals in the nation. Prepare to be blown away by the electric atmosphere, as legendary artists take the stage and unleash their explosive performances. Join us at Tons of Rock and become part of a vibrant community, united by a shared love for metal and rock music. 

Øyafestivalen

Date: 9 – 12 August

Headliners: Blur, Håkan Hellström, Wizkid, Pusha T, Sigrid, Boygenius

Features: Day tickets, City festival

From its humble beginnings in 1999, Øyafestivalen has rapidly evolved into one of the country’s premier and most influential music festivals. Prepare to be captivated by a diverse lineup of renowned artists, showcasing the best of contemporary music across genres. As the festival has grown over the years, it has solidified its status as a must-attend event for music lovers, attracting a dedicated community of fans from near and far. Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Øyafestivalen as it continues to make its mark on the Norwegian music scene, bringing people together for unforgettable moments and unforgettable performances.

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN

Lollapalooza Stockholm

Date: 29 June – 1 July

Headliners: Travis Scott, Lizzo, Lil Nas X, Mumford & Sons, Kygo, Zara Larsson, The 1975

Features: Day tickets, Tickets under €50, VIP upgrades, City festival

Lollapalooza was founded in 1991 as a touring festival, found its home in Chicago in 2005, and has since grown and evolved into an international affair, expanding through São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Santiago in South America, to Berlin, Paris, and Stockholm in Europe, and to Mumbai in India.

This year’s edition of Lollapalooza Stockholm will be the third in line. Last summer, the festival attracted over 70,000 visitors to Gärdet in Stockholm. With an outstanding lineup of renowned artists, thrilling performances, and amazing ambiance, Lollapalooza Stockholm promises an unparalleled celebration of music and culture.

Hights Festival

Date: 30 June – 1 July

Headliners: Aera, Cloz, Hatami, Santiago, TOKI, 7heads

Features: Day tickets, Tickets under €50

Hights Festival 2023 returns to Stora Skuggan for a long awaited reunion of family, friends and music lovers from all over the place. A carefully curated two-day love affair set in the beauty of mother nature, right in the city’s royal park.

The festival will take over two full days, offering attendees an opportunity to reconnect with nature and embrace the beauty of the park. A magical place Hights have the honour to call home for a few days every year.

Latin Village

Date: 29 July

Features: Day tickets, City festival, Family-friendly

This vibrant event offers a day of pure delight for all ages. Immerse yourself in a colorful celebration of Latin American culture, filled with live music, captivating dance shows, mouthwatering cuisine, and engaging activities for the whole family.

Feel the rhythm of Latin music as talented artists take the stage, igniting your passion for salsa, reggaeton, and more. Explore the displays of talented artisans, showcasing their unique creations. Engage in face painting and other interactive experiences that will spark your creativity. And indulge in a culinary journey, savoring the authentic flavors of Latin American cuisine.