The 10 Biggest Music Festivals in North America
The allure of live music, the atmosphere of thousands of like-minded fans, and the heady experience of a shared cultural moment—there’s nothing quite like a music festival. North America is home to some of the world’s largest and most iconic music festivals, each boasting a rich history, famous performers, and an atmosphere unlike any other.
In this article, we will delve into the 10 biggest music festivals in North America, exploring their histories, the famous artists who have graced their stages, attendance records, and their unique locations.
1. Coachella
History
Officially known as the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Coachella has become synonymous with music festivals in North America. Launched in 1999, it is held annually in Indio, California. The festival is known for its diverse lineup that spans multiple genres, from rock and indie to hip-hop and electronic dance music.
Famous Artists
Over the years, Coachella has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Beyoncé, Radiohead, and Prince. In 2018, Beyoncé became the first black woman to headline the festival, and her performance was widely lauded as one of the best in the festival’s history.
Attendance and Location
The festival draws in an estimated 250,000 people over two weekends. It is located at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, offering a picturesque desert backdrop for festival-goers.
2. Bonnaroo
History
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival started in 2002 and takes place annually in Manchester, Tennessee. The festival’s name comes from New Orleans slang, meaning “a really good time,” which the event certainly strives to deliver.
Famous Artists
The festival has hosted an eclectic mix of performers, including Elton John, Paul McCartney, and Kendrick Lamar. It also promotes up-and-coming acts alongside established artists.
Attendance and Location
Drawing around 80,000 fans, the festival takes place on a 700-acre farm, offering ample space for camping and other activities.
3. Lollapalooza
History
Originally conceived by Perry Farrell, the lead singer of Jane’s Addiction, as a farewell tour for his band in 1991, Lollapalooza quickly transformed into a cultural event. It became an annual festival in 2005 and is hosted in Chicago’s Grant Park.
Famous Artists
From Pearl Jam and Red Hot Chili Peppers in the ’90s to more recent performers like Ariana Grande and The Weeknd, Lollapalooza has been a platform for numerous iconic artists.
Attendance and Location
Over 400,000 people attend the festival across four days. The picturesque setting at Grant Park in Chicago offers a beautiful skyline and lots of space for festival-goers.
4. Austin City Limits (ACL)
History
Inspired by the PBS concert series of the same name, Austin City Limits Festival was inaugurated in 2002. Held annually in Austin, Texas, the festival captures the eclectic spirit of the city itself.
Famous Artists
ACL has seen performances from legends like Willie Nelson and newer sensations like Billie Eilish, covering a broad spectrum of music genres.
Attendance and Location
Approximately 450,000 people attend over two weekends, making it one of the largest festivals in the U.S. It takes place in Zilker Park, offering a beautiful natural setting.
5. Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC)
History
Founded in 1997, EDC is the largest electronic dance music (EDM) festival in North America. Originally held in Los Angeles, it moved to Las Vegas in 2011 due to its increasing size.
Famous Artists
Some of the biggest names in EDM, including Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, and Martin Garrix, have performed at EDC.
Attendance and Location
EDC attracts over 400,000 attendees over its three-day run. The festival is currently hosted at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, providing a massive arena for fans.
6. Governors Ball
History
Launched in 2011, the Governors Ball is a newer addition to the festival circuit but has quickly gained recognition. It takes place annually on Randall’s Island in New York City.
Famous Artists
Artists like Kanye West, OutKast, and Jack White have graced the festival’s stages, contributing to its rapid rise in popularity.
Attendance and Location
Approximately 150,000 people attend the festival each year, making it a significant event despite its relative youth. The island setting offers a unique festival experience with skyline views of Manhattan.
7. Essence Festival
History
Dubbed as “the party with a purpose,” the Essence Festival started in 1994 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Essence magazine. The festival occurs annually in New Orleans, focusing on African American music and culture.
Famous Artists
Big names like Mary J. Blige, Aretha Franklin, and Janet Jackson have performed at the Essence Festival.
Attendance and Location
The festival draws around 500,000 attendees, making it one of the largest events in the United States. It is held at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans.
8. Newport Folk Festival
History
One of the oldest music festivals in North America, Newport Folk Festival was established in 1959 in Newport, Rhode Island. Known for promoting folk, blues, country, and bluegrass music, it has a rich history in shaping the American music scene.
Famous Artists
Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Johnny Cash are some of the iconic artists who have performed at Newport.
Attendance and Location
Around 10,000 people attend the festival each year, offering a more intimate setting. The event takes place at Fort Adams State Park, providing a coastal backdrop that enhances the festival experience.
9. Sasquatch!
History
Launched in 2002, Sasquatch! Festival was an annual music festival held in Quincy, Washington, up until its last installment in 2018.
Famous Artists
Artists like Foo Fighters, Mumford & Sons, and Kendrick Lamar have headlined the festival, which was known for its focus on indie rock, alternative, and hip-hop music.
Attendance and Location
Around 25,000 people attended each year, and the festival was located at The Gorge Amphitheatre, one of the most scenic concert venues in the world.
10. Stagecoach Festival
History
Started in 2007 as the country cousin of Coachella, Stagecoach is a country music festival also held in Indio, California.
Famous Artists
Country legends like Willie Nelson, Kenny Chesney, and Carrie Underwood have performed at Stagecoach, making it a must-attend event for country music fans.
Attendance and Location
Approximately 75,000 fans attend each year. Like Coachella, Stagecoach is held at the Empire Polo Club, taking advantage of the vast desert landscape.
From the indie vibes of Sasquatch! to the electronic beats of EDC and the soulful rhythms of Essence Festival, North America’s music festivals offer something for everyone. These events go beyond just music; they are cultural phenomena that offer a sense of community, artistic expression, and an escape from the mundane. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, there’s a festival on this list that’s sure to resonate with your musical tastes.