2012 Music Festival Guide
Below is the 2012 Music Festival Guide. It's a long list of events and I give it to you with one piece of advice, attend as many of these as you possibly can. Artists tend to cluster together and overlap, as should you. Festivals are a great way to open up yourself to new forms of music and great experiences with friends, new and old.
*It's a long long list, so make sure to CTRL+ F if you're looking for a specific festival or search by month*
The 2012 Music Festivals are underway and it's high time you start making your travel plans. From New York to San Francisco, Chicago to Los Angeles and everything in between, these are the festivals you don't want to miss in 2012. Whether it's electronic music festivals like Ultra Music Festival, Electric Daisy Carnival or Electric Zoo or massive multi-day gatherings like Coachella, Bonnaroo and Austin City Limits, summer festivals or winter throwdowns, MetroWize has the goods on dates, lineup and information on over 70 fests from around the country. Make sure to bookmark this page because we will be updating it regularly throughout the year as more details are released.
JANUARY
BPM Festival
Description
Winter is a cold and nasty season just about everywhere but not in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. Things get even hotter during the BPM festival with 10 days of great music, beach parties, all night club events and yacht bashes. Now in it's 5th iteration, it is quickly becoming THE spot that the industry people head to after the hectic NYE season. Additional BPM Festival 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2008
Location
Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
2011 Headliners
Dubfire, David Morales, Sander Kleinenberg, Richie Hawtin, Steve Angello, Victor Calderone
BPM Festival 2012 Dates
12/30-1/8
BPM Festival 2012 Lineup
Steve Angello, Danny Tenaglia, Danny Howells, Richie Hawtin, John Digweed, Cedric Gervais, Dirty South
Holy Ship
Description
The people behind Hard Fest (LA and NYC) and HARD NYE have decided to take the show on the road (or water as the case may be). 3 days of debauchery on a boat with 3000 partiers and killer DJ talent just might be the best way to start 2012.
Happening Since
2012
Location
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
2011 Headliners
N/A
Holy Ship 2012 Dates
1/6-1/9
Holy Ship 2012 Lineup
Fatboy Slim, Laidback Luke, Steve Aoki, Diplo, Rusko, Boys Noize, Rusko, A-Trak
Jam Cruise
Description
Similar in concept to Holy Ship but oh so different in vibe, Jam Cruise has been rockin' this heady boat for a full decade. The 5 day voyage includes a ton of great shows, workshops, excursions and good times for all.
Happening Since
2002
Location
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
2011 Headliners
Bob Weir, Rythym Devils, Robert Randolph, Galactic
Jam Cruise 2012 Dates
1/9-1/14
Jam Cruise 2012 Lineup
Umphreys McGee, Galactic, Keller & The Keels, Toots & The Maytals
Groove Cruise
Description
2000 sexy people, 72 hours, 55 artists and 9 party experiences on a massive cruise ship. What started as a group of 125 friends going on a cruise in 2004 has erupted in to the world's largest fully charted dance music cruise experience. The Groove Cruise is geared towards those who love dance music and who live by the mantra to 'Work Hard and Play Harder'.
Happening Since
2004
Location
Miami, FL
2011 Headliners
Dirty South, Funkagenda, Boris, Oscar G
Groove Cruise 2012 Dates
1/27-1/30
Groove Cruise 2012 Lineup
Sander Van Doorn, Roger Sanchez, Boris, Funkagenda, Donald Glaude
FEBRUARY
Noisepop
Description
San Francisco's premiere indie rock festival has been consistently booking many of the future stars of rock, punk, hip hop, rap and alternative for almost 20 years. Often compared to NYC's CMJ Festival, this six-day festival also features film screenings, panels and live art showings at venues all over the city.
Happening Since
1993
Location
San Francisco, CA
2011 Headliners
Aesop Rock, Best Coast, Kid Koala, The Stone Foxes, Peanut Butter Wolf
Noisepop 2012 Dates
2/21-2/26
Noisepop 2012 Lineup
Die Antwoord, Grime, Budos Band, Built to Spill, Archers of Loaf, Cursive, Imperial Teen
MARCH
Snowball Festival
Description
Vail Valley is the backdrop for this epic winter music festival with a very unique feature: 6000 acres of fresh snow. Skiers and snowboarders will delight at this breathtaking experience that combines the best of the beats with huge slices of mountain plus three terrain parks and seven bowls! And booming into the peaks will be bass as big as the mountains themselves, from some of the biggest names in the festival circuit. Do you have your boots on yet? Additional Snowball Festival 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2011
Location
Vail Valley, CO
2011 Headliners
Pretty Lights, Bassnectar, The Flaming Lips, Diplo, Edward Sharp and Magnetic Zeros
Snowball Festival 2012 Dates
3/2-3/4
Snowball Festival 2012 Lineup
Bassnectar, Ghostland Observatory, MartyParty, MiMOSA, Rusko TV on the Radio
Cyprus Hill Smokeout
Description
As if southern California needs a reason to light up another spliff, Cypress Hill's annual Smokeout "Mind Opening Music Festival" provides a potent excuse for a celebration of steazy beats and sticky green. Held at NOS Events Center, a giant outdoor fairgrounds east of Los Angeles, the Smokeout is known for its diversity in booking and solid history in the community. With plenty of stages, vending, and room to run around, the Smokeout is a festival that any music lover, stoner or not, would enjoy.
Happening Since
1998
Location
San Bernadino, CA
2011 Headliners
No event
Cyprus Hill Smokeout 2012 Dates
3/3/2011
Cyprus Hill Smokeout 2012 Lineup
Sublime With Rome, Cypress Hill, Korn, Wiz Khalifa, The Dirty Heads
SXSW
Description
The SXSW Music and Media Conference showcases hundreds of musical acts from around the globe on over ninety stages in downtown Austin. One of the most important schmoozing festivals for music industry insiders, in 2011 SXSW welcomed over 13,000 industry reps and over 2000 performing bands.
Happening Since
1987
Location
Austin, TX
2011 Headliners
Kanye West, Conan O'Brien, Erykah Badu, Beats Antique, MSTRKRFT, James Blake
SXSW 2012 Dates
3/9-3/18
SXSW 2012 Lineup
TBD
Winter Music Conference
Description
The Winter Music Conference is the godfather of dance music festivals. Much more than just a party, WMC is an industry trade show, networking platform and the foundation of what is now known as Miami Music Week. 10 days of pure mayhem with some of the biggest names in dance music at pools, clubs, mansions, yachts, you name it.
Happening Since
1984
Location
Miami, FL
2011 Headliners
Danny Tenaglia, Derrick Carter, Markus Schulz, Victor Calderone, Vandalism, Doc Martin
Winter Music Conference 2012 Dates
3/16-3/25
Winter Music Conference 2012 Lineup
TBD
Suwanee Springfest
Description
The 16th annual festival is set for March 23-25 at the Spirit Of The Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, Fla. The event prides itself on booking a mix of new and traditional folk, roots rock, bluegrass and newgrass, and other American roots music.
Happening Since
1996
Location
Live Oak, FL
2011 Headliners
The Avett Brothers, David Grisman, Donna the Buffalo, Emmitt-Nershi Band
Suwanee Springfest 2012 Dates
3/22-3/25
Suwanee Springfest 2012 Lineup
Yonder Mountain String Band, Peter Rowan & Tony Rice Duo, Donna the Buffalo, Justin Townes, Emmitt Nershi Band
Ultra Music Festival
Description
The biggest dance music event in America, Ultra drew a record breaking 150,000 attendees over 3 ridiculous days of the biggest acts in electronica and cross over genre's. 2012 promises to be even bigger due to the realigning of the dates with the famed WMC event.
Happening Since
1999
Location
Miami, FL
2011 Headliners
Tiesto, Deadmau5, The Chemical Brothers, Empire of The Sun, Carl Cox, David Guetta, Skrillex
Ultra Music Festival 2012 Dates
3/23-3/25
Ultra Music Festival 2012 Lineup
David Guetta, Tiesto, Justice, Skrillex, Avicii, Armin Van Buuren, Carl Cox See full Ultra Music Festival 2012 Lineup
APRIL
Coachella
Description
California's flagship festival, Coachella, is branching out over two weekends next year, but that doesn't mean fans are in for an epic 10-day music festival. Instead, the weekend event is simply going to be staged twice; same lineup, same art, same place, just different people. Coachella boasts five large stages, an epic campground and an open-minded crowd that is ready to party.
Happening Since
1999
Location
Indio, CA
2011 Headliners
Kanye West, Kings of Leon, Arcade Fire, The Black Keys, The Chemical Brothers
Coachella 2012 Dates
4/13-4/15, 4/20-4/22
Coachella 2012 Lineup
TBD
Nocturnal Festival
Description
Kicking off in 2010 Insomniac surprised us with Nocturnal Festival Texas held at Apache Pass Fairgrounds in Rockdale, Texas. The festival went over well and returned in 2011 for two days with everyone from Bassnecter to Kaskade. We're excited to see who they decide to bring in for 2012.
Happening Since
2010
Location
Apache Pass, Downtown, TX
2011 Headliners
Bassnecter, Ghostland Observatory, Above & Beyond, Kaskade, Excision, Pendulum
Nocturnal Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Nocturnal Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Jazzfest
Description
For over 4 decades, Jazzfest (AKA New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival) has been welcoming some of the biggest names in the biz to the big easy for 10 solid days of music and mayhem. Any good festival goer knows that Jazzfest is a bucketlister. Additional Jazzfest 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
1970
Location
New Orleans, LA
2011 Headliners
Arcade Fire, Bon Jovi, Jimmy Buffet, Kid Rock, Robert Plant, Wilco, Willy Nelson
Jazzfest 2012 Dates
4/27-5/6
Jazzfest 2012 Lineup
Eagles, Tom Petty, Foo Fighters, My Morning Jacket, Al Green
MAY
SunFest
Description
When it all started 35 years ago in 1975 it was originally called "Save Six for September". Now known as SunFest, this West Palm Beach, FL event is a musical and art festival held annually on the first week of May. Being the state's largest waterfront music and art festival SunFest attracts more than 275,000 visitors.
Happening Since
1982
Location
West Palm Beach, FL
2011 Headliners
Jason Mraz, Earth, Wind & Fire, Styx, MGMT, Sublime with Rome, Cee Lo Green, Jeff Beck
SunFest 2012 Dates
5/2-5/6
SunFest 2012 Lineup
Grace Potter & The Nocturnals, Gipsy Kings, Girl Talk, LMFAO
Joshua Tree Music Festival
Description
This intimate desert festival held at Joshua Tree Lake Campground near Joshua Tree National Park is the antithesis to the mega-fests that otherwise claim music lovers' attention in SoCal. Based around a bowl of sound and set under a purple carpet of stars, this camping festival highlights the surrounding natural scenery and is a breath of fresh air in the festival world. No security detail with orange vests, no corporate sponsors. Just fresh air, desert breezes and music from all over the world.
Happening Since
2003
Location
Joshua Tree, CA
2011 Headliners
Vieux Farka Toure, Pimps of Joytime, Chali 2na
Joshua Tree Music Festival 2012 Dates
5/18-5/20
Joshua Tree Music Festival 2012 Lineup
Fort Knox Five, Gaudi, Wunmi, Oka, See-i, Sarazino, Nikodemus, Breakestra
Summer Camp Music Festival
Description
Now expanded to three days of music, Summer Camp Music Festival sets six stages across the beautiful Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, Illinois. This outdoor camping event has not only been growing, but also booking an impressive roster of live bands, jam music and electronic artists. Priding itself on a "family" atmosphere, Summer Camp does not allow campers to bring in any alcohol, and has a special activity zones for kids.
Happening Since
2001
Location
Chilicothe, IL
2011 Headliners
Umphreys McGee, Moe, STS9, Daedelus, Bassnectar, Girl Talk, Avett Brothers
Summer Camp Music Festival 2012 Dates
5/25-5/27
Summer Camp Music Festival 2012 Lineup
Moe. (3 nights), Umphrey's McGee, Bob Weir Trio, Primus, Gogol Bordello, Ozomatli
Movement Electronic Music Festival
Description
Despite frequent changes in name and management, the Detroit Electronic Music Festival, held annually over the Memorial Day weekend since the millennium, is still alive and strong. Now called the Movement, the massive, 36-hour party draws tens of thousands of fans to the birthplace of techno, filling up Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit to capacity and beyond.
Happening Since
2000
Location
Detroit, MI
2011 Headliners
Richie Hawtin, James Zabiela, Dubfire, Mimosa, Carl Craig, Ana Sia
Movement Electronic Music Festival 2012 Dates
5/26-5/28
Movement Electronic Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
MUTEK
Description
A smartly curated, five-day festival in Montreal, MUTEK highlights cutting-edge electronic music and digital media. In its 13th edition, more than 100 artists, panelists, and industry professionals will participate in what has become a leading event of its kind in North America.
Happening Since
2000
Location
Montreal, Canada
2011 Headliners
Modeselektor, Gold Panda, Four Tet, Amon Tobin
MUTEK 2012 Dates
5/30-6/3
MUTEK 2012 Lineup
TBD
Hangout Festival
Description
Set right next to the ocean in scenic Gulf Shores, Alabama, the Hangout Music Festival is a fairly new festival that features an eclectic mix of rock-heavy performances. With stages set directly on the white sandy beach and a backdrop of peaceful ocean views, this three-day festival starts with a prefest on May 19 and even has a kids' stage for the wee ones who like to rock out.
Happening Since
2010
Location
Gulf Shores, AL
2011 Headliners
Widespread Panic, Foo Fighters, Paul Simon, My Morning Jacket, The Black Keys, STS9, Bassnectar
Hangout Festival 2012 Dates
5/18-5/20
Hangout Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Sasquatch
Description
The Gorge is one of the most beautiful venues in the world, set on the edge of the Columbia River gorge in eastern Washington. It is well worth the drive during Memorial Day Weekend when Sasquatch descends on the river; this festival is big but not too big, with acts that are known but not KNOWN. In 2012, the festival will again be four days, and will include re-entry for wristband holders. Dates will be May 25th to May 29th.
Happening Since
2002
Location
George, WA
2011 Headliners
Foo Fighters, Flying Lotus, Death Cab For Cutie, Modest Mouse, Wilco, The Flaming Lips, The Decemberists, Bassnectar
Sasquatch 2012 Dates
TBD
Sasquatch 2012 Lineup
TBD
Lightning in a Bottle
Description
This sustainable festival put on by The Do Lab at Oak Canyon Ranch is a beautiful participatory experience of live music and dance-friendly beats, incredible art installations, smiling faces, mind and body workshops and more. The antidote to soulless raves, this four-day outdoor event is uniquely full of heart and a true community experience.
Happening Since
2004
Location
Silverado, CA
2011 Headliners
Pretty Lights, Thievery Corporation, Lucent Dossier, Mimosa, Beats Antique
Lightning in a Bottle 2012 Dates
TBD
Lightning in a Bottle 2012 Lineup
TBD
Wakarusa
Description
Deep in Arkansas' charming Ozark mountains you will find a HUGE music festival that goes by the name: Wakarusa. Selling out in 2010, this festival is just getting bigger and better every year with an eclectic mix of artists and a smattering of fun diversions for festival guests: hiking, Frisbee golf, yoga and of course swimming in the gorgeous Mulberry River. Additional Wakarusa 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2004
Location
Mulberry Mountain, AR
2011 Headliners
My Morning Jacket, Ben Harper, Thievery Corporation, STS9, Bassnectar, Shpongle, Skrillex
Wakarusa 2012 Dates
5/31-6/3
Wakarusa 2012 Lineup
TBD
JUNE
Free Press Summerfest
Happening Since
2009
Location
Houston, TX
2011 Headliners
Weezer, MF Doom, Cut Copy, Ween, Yeasayer, Chromeo, Big Boi
Free Press Summerfest 2012 Dates
6/2-6/3
Free Press Summerfest 2012 Lineup
TBD
Bonnaroo
Description
Perhaps the best festival on the East Coast, and certainly one of the biggest, Bonnaroo sees over 100,000 attendees descend on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee each summer. In addition to an unrivaled music lineup, comedy is also a focus of this outdoor camping mega festival. Additional Bonnaroo 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2002
Location
Manchester, TN
2011 Headliners
Eminem, Arcade Fire, Widespread Panic, Black Keys
Bonnaroo 2012 Dates
6/7-6/10
Bonnaroo 2012 Lineup
TBD
Electric Daisy Carnival
Description
2011 was a critical moment for the biggest dance music festival in the US. After problems at their old location in Los Angeles, the festival made the decision to move to Las Vegas. Apparently it was a good one. 2011 was a huge success with over 225,000 attendees and 2012 has already been green lighted in the same location. The lineup will no doubt be massive. Stay tuned for details.
Happening Since
1996
Location
Las Vegas, NV
2011 Headliners
Tiesto, David Guetta, Swedish House Mafia
Electric Daisy Carnival 2012 Dates
6/8-6/10
Electric Daisy Carnival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Electric Forest
Description
A collaborative enterprise from Madison House Publicity (known for Jam band and Blue Grass acts and events) and Insomniac (arguably the biggest Dance Music event organizer in the country), Electric Forest picks up where Rothbury Festival left off in 2009. Held in Rothbury, MI., this event promises the beauty of the outdoors, the pleasant sound of a guitar strumming and some ground shakin' bass from some of the biggest names on the club circuit all at the same time... Oh yeah, it's Independence weekend so expect fireworks to boot!
Happening Since
2011
Location
Rothbury, MI
2011 Headliners
String Cheese Incident, Tiesto, Kaskade, Pretty Lights, Bassnectar
Electric Forest 2012 Dates
6/28-7/1
Electric Forest 2012 Lineup
TBD
Summerfest
Description
Believe it or not, Summerfest in Milwaukee is the largest festival in the United States in terms of attendance. It has hosted nearly every big name in music at one time or another and literally hundreds of thousands of people show up each year to hear music on a dozen stages.
Happening Since
1968
Location
Milwaukee, WI
2011 Headliners
Kanye West, Katy Perry, Kid Cudi, Hall & Oates, The Black Keys
Summerfest 2012 Dates
6/27-7/8
Summerfest 2012 Lineup
TBD
Sonic Bloom
Description
A unified community event, Sonic Bloom highlights the thriving bass music scene in Colorado with a myriad of performers and artists, both homegrown and from further reaches of the beat spectrum. Colorado might not exactly be the West Coast – but this sustainable outdoor festival falls right in line with the "conscious celebration" ethos so popular on the green-leaning Left Coast.
Happening Since
2006
Location
Georgetown, CO
2011 Headliners
Eoto, Tipper, Mala, Vibesquad, MartyParty
Sonic Bloom 2012 Dates
6/22-6/24
Sonic Bloom 2012 Lineup
TBD
Governors Ball
Description
Last year marked the first time the Governors Ball Music Festival took over Governors Ball in NYC. The festival included 12 hours of non-stop beats on two stages with no overlapping sets, so guests could see every act on the bill!
Happening Since
2011
Location
Governors Island, NYC
2011 Headliners
Girl Talk, Pretty Lights, Empire of the Sun, Bib Boi (Outkast)
Governors Ball 2012 Dates
6/23-6/24
Governors Ball 2012 Lineup
TBD
Harmony Festival
Description
One of the Bay Area's top camping music festivals and a celebration of progressive lifestyle, the 33rd annual Harmony Festival shows a strong lineup of eclectic talent for many musical tastes. Don't miss the Mystic Beat Lounge - Techno-Tribal Dance After Dark, a nighttime party with fire performances and visual arts displays. A community-proud event, Harmony also has a playground for kids, yoga sanctuary, eco village, global marketplace, wellness pavilion, harmony altar and healing sanctuary.
Happening Since
1978
Location
Santa Rosa, CA
2011 Headliners
Primus, The Flaming Lips, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Edward Sharpe & Magnetic Zeros, Ghostland Observatory
Harmony Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Harmony Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
JULY
High Sierra Music Festival
Description
This mid-size festival has been lighting up the mountains and hills of northern California for over twenty years. Located about 80 miles north of Reno, NV, the High Sierra fest highlights an eclectic array of musical offerings focused on jazz, newgrass, bluegrass and jam bands and also featuring funk, electronica and world music. Guests of the festival will also find workshops, classes, shopping and family-oriented activities.
Happening Since
1990
Location
Quincy, CA
2011 Headliners
My Morning Jacket, Ween, Neko Case, Yonder Mountain String Band, Maceo Parker
High Sierra Music Festival 2012 Dates
7/5-7/8
High Sierra Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Gathering of the Vibes
Description
The four day music, camping and arts festival that celebrates the Grateful Dead brings together all types of music is set to take place in Seaside Park, Bridgeport CT. The 16 year old festival features everything from funk to reggae and is hosted by Master of Ceremonies Wavy Gravy.
Happening Since
1996
Location
Seaside Park, Brigeport CT
2011 Headliners
Furthur, Jane's Addiction, Elvis Costello
Gathering of the Vibes 2012 Dates
7/19-7/22
Gathering of the Vibes 2012 Lineup
TBD
Photosynthsis
Description
A homegrown affair, Photosynthesis is a community-based camping event that showcases local and regional artists as well as bigger "up-and-comers." A party with heart, this intimate affair promises to be even better in 2012, its fifth year of operation.
Happening Since
2008
Location
Neah Bay, WA
2011 Headliners
Tipper, The Flahbulb, Bartel, Richard Devin
Photosynthsis 2012 Dates
TBD
Photosynthsis 2012 Lineup
TBD
Dance.Here.Now
Description
It is safe to say that the inaugural offering of this NYC festival was a big success. A collaboration of NYC mega clubs, Pacha, Cielo and GLO, Dance.Here.Now brought 4 days of big beats and big crowds out on Governors Island over the 4th of July weekend. We look forward to the 2012 offering.
Happening Since
2011
Location
New York, NY
2011 Headliners
Paul Van Dyk, Fat Boy Slim, James Zabiella, Benny Bennassi, Laidback Luke, Victor Calderone
Dance.Here.Now 2012 Dates
TBD
Dance.Here.Now 2012 Lineup
TBD
Pitchfork Music Festival
Description
Love or hate their snarky, snooty reviews, no one can deny that Chicago-based Pitchfork.com has an affect on the evolution of music culture. The website started throwing its own event in 2006, and so far the Pitchfork Music Festival has made as big of as splash as their website by booking both hot-as-fire new artists and those on their way up.
Happening Since
2006
Location
Chicago, IL
2011 Headliners
Animal Collective, Neko Case, Fleet Foxes, James Blake, TV on the Radio, Cut Copy
Pitchfork Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Pitchfork Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
EMRG+N+SEE
Description
Situated smack dab in the heart of Portland, OR, this tastemaker event has cutting-edge lineups and up-and-coming artists from the left field, offering a wide range of live music from West Coast glitch hop to acoustic folk-funk bands to dubbed out electronica and other forms of experimental sounds.
Happening Since
2004
Location
Portland, OR
2011 Headliners
Tipper, Lunice, NiT GriT, Gladkill, Funginears
EMRG+N+SEE 2012 Dates
TBD
EMRG+N+SEE 2012 Lineup
TBD
Big Up
Description
The setting at The Big Up is intimate, with attendance at a mere 5k last year, but the vibe is anything but that. Huge music from some of the best crossover artists in the dance industry makes for a solid summer music event.
Happening Since
2007
Location
Ghent, NY
2011 Headliners
Eoto, Tipper, Big Gigantic, RAQ, Digital Tape Machine
Big Up 2012 Dates
TBD
Big Up 2012 Lineup
TBD
All Good Festival
Description
This east coast festival is jam-band centric and pulls a large number of people to a mountaintop in West Virginia. With two side-by-side stages, no sets ever overlap and you can expect to hear not only jam bands, but also rock, bluegrass, electronic music, reggae and funk. With a laid-back vibe that is perfectly suited to the fresh mountain air, All Good Festival is continuously praised for the top talent as well as the panoramic views of rolling hills.
Happening Since
1997
Location
Masontown, West VA
2011 Headliners
Further feat. Phil Lesh & Bob Weir, Primus, Pretty Lights, STS9, moe.
All Good Festival 2012 Dates
7/19-7/22
All Good Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Camp Bisco
Description
This three-day music and arts event in Mariaville, New York brings cutting-edge sounds and rocking dance beats to New England. One of the countries largest and longest running electronic-rock music festivals, the lineup is just getting better and better every year. Additional Camp Bisco 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2001
Location
Mariaville, NY
2011 Headliners
The Disco Biscuits, Cut Copy, Bassnectar, Pretty Lights, Death From Above 1979, MSTRKRFT
Camp Bisco 2012 Dates
7/12-7/14
Camp Bisco 2012 Lineup
TBD
Wanderlust Festival
Description
What do you get when you combine rock and roll and yoga? You get an the epic 4-day throwdown known as Wanderlust Festival. True to its name, Wanderlust takes place in more than one location (or at least it did in 2011) but always picks a locale of stunning natural beauty. This combo of yoga, music and nature will please the body/soul/spirit peeps, and the festival's more intimate nature makes it easy to relax, stretch out and dance.
Happening Since
2009
Location
Squaw Valley, CA
2011 Headliners
Girl Talk, Michael Franti & Spearhead
Wanderlust Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Wanderlust Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
AUGUST
Lollapalooza
Description
Lollapalooza is much older than it acts. In the early 90's, the festival was a roaming tour that hosted then up and comers like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pearl Jam. After a decade long hiatus, Perry Farrell's brainchild festival was reborn in Chicago, where it revels amidst the skyscrapers smack in the middle of the city. Expect Lollapalooza 2012 to bring out many of the brightest stars in rock, punk and electronic music to eight stages in Grant Park over three days.
Happening Since
2005
Location
Chicago, IL
2011 Headliners
Eminem, Foo Fighters, ColdPlay, Muse, Deadmau5
Lollapalooza 2012 Dates
8/3-8/5
Lollapalooza 2012 Lineup
TBD
Outside Lands
Description
In just 3 short years, this 3 day annual festival in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco has proven that it deserves to be in the same league as the Coachella's and Bonnaroo's. Consistently drawing 60k plus and the major headliners of the year, be on the lookout for another big event in 2012.
Happening Since
2008
Location
San Francisco, CA
2011 Headliners
Muse, Phish, Arcade Fire, The Black Keys, Deadmau5, MGMT, Girl Talk
Outside Lands 2012 Dates
TBD
Outside Lands 2012 Lineup
TBD
IDentity Festival
Description
Last summer marked the debut of IDENTITY the first Electronic touring music festival. The festival took over 20 US cities with the biggest names in Electronic music and we can't wait to see who they book this year!
Happening Since
2011
Location
Throughout the US
2011 Headliners
Kaskade, Pretty Lights, Rusko, Avicii, Steve Aoki, Disco Biscuits
IDentity Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
IDentity Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
LouFest
Description
LouFest is a new player on the fest circuit but has made a sizable splash in its 2 years of existence. Close to 20 national and local acts hit 2 stages over the course of 2 days and, like any good festival these days, there is a huge local food and merch presence. All ages event.
Happening Since
2010
Location
St. Louis, MO
2011 Headliners
TV on the Radio, Cat Power, Deer Hunter, !!!
LouFest 2012 Dates
8/25-8/26
LouFest 2012 Lineup
TBD
SEPTEMBER
North Coast Music Festival
Description
Labor Day weekend of 2010 saw the induction of the North Coast Music Festival, a new event put on by fifty different promoters for hipsters, hippies and hip hop heads of the Chicago area. In 2011, the event was again a huge success, drawing more people and more attention. 2012 dates have already been announced. Let the anticipation begin.
Location
Chicago, IL
2011 Headliners
David Guetta, Wiz Khalifa, Thievory Corporation, Common, Lotus, Little Dragon, Neon Indian
North Coast Music Festival 2012 Dates
8/31-9/2
North Coast Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Electric Zoo
Description
New York's biggest electronic dance music event is growing quickly, attracting more and more visitors from out of state and out of country every year. Held at Randall's Island Park, a beautiful location covered with lush grass, Electric Zoo is one of the top music festivals that beat heads try to get to every year. Dates for 2012 have already been green lighted so the hype can start early.
Happening Since
2009
Location
New York, NY
2011 Headliners
Tiesto, David Guetta, Armin Van Buuren, Carl Cox, Moby, Skrillex
Electric Zoo 2012 Dates
8/31-9/2
Electric Zoo 2012 Lineup
TBD
Bumbershoot
Description
Bumbershoot®: Seattle’s Music & Arts Festival is now in its 41st year. Since 1971, Bumbershoot has drawn artists representing the best in music, film, comedy, spoken word, dance, theatre, performance, and visual arts to the Seattle Center over Labor Day weekend. North America’s largest urban arts festival, Bumbershoot takes place in the heart of the city at the 74-acre Seattle Center and draws over 100,000 visitors.
Happening Since
1971
Location
Seattle, WA
2011 Headliners
Ray LaMontagne, Wiz Khalifa, Daryl Hall & John Oates, Broken Social Scene, Minus The Bear
Bumbershoot 2012 Dates
9/1-9/3
Bumbershoot 2012 Lineup
TBD
Telluride Brews and Blues
Description
One of the most scenic music festivals in the country, the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The festival takes place every September as a three-day celebration of music and microbrews, held in the outdoor music venue with breathtaking 13,000 foot mountain peaks for a backdrop. By day, experience live blues, rock, gospel and soul performances and the best microbrews then at night, head into the town of Telluride, with late night juke joints and after-hours jams.
Happening Since
1994
Location
Telluride, CO
2011 Headliners
Willie Nelson, The Flaming Lips, Big Head Todd
Telluride Brews and Blues 2012 Dates
9/14-9/16
Telluride Brews and Blues 2012 Lineup
TBD
Lovevolution
Description
2011 marked the move of Lovevolution from the streets of SF to the Oakland Coliseum. With Moby, The Glitch Mob and more on the bill, the party didn't disappoint and will be back in 2012 with another awesome line up.
Happening Since
2005
Location
Oakland Coliseum, Oakland CA
2011 Headliners
Moby, The Glitch Mob, Pendulum, Laidback Luke, Markus Schulz
Lovevolution 2012 Dates
TBD
Lovevolution 2012 Lineup
TBD
Music Fest NW
Description
The third largest indoor music festival in the US, Musicfest NW has been called one of the "50 Authentic American Experiences" by Time magazine. Known for hosting cutting edge music, MFNW is one of Portland, Oregon's largest and most successful music festivals with artists and bands from indie, hip hop and punk backgrounds performing in multiple venues around the city.
Happening Since
2001
Location
Portland, OR
2011 Headliners
Band of Horses, Iron and Wine, The Kills, Butthole Surfers
Music Fest NW 2012 Dates
TBD
Music Fest NW 2012 Lineup
TBD
Nocturnal Wonderland
Description
This Autumn themed festival from Insomniac brings together some of the biggest names in electronic music for a 12 hour rave! Get ready to party all night in six rooms of amazing music.
Happening Since
1995
Location
Nos Events Center, Los Angeles, CA
2011 Headliners
Fedde Le Grand, Avicii, Aly & Fila, Gareth Emery, 12th Planet
Nocturnal Wonderland 2012 Dates
TBD
Nocturnal Wonderland 2012 Lineup
TBD
Blackwater Music Festival
Description
The Blackwater Music Festival takes place on the edge of the Suwannee River (known for its dark, "black water"
at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park. Going into its third year this 2012, Blackwater has once again proved that they’re batting in the big leagues With 50 plus acts on five stages, Blackwater has one of the most eclectic lineups from electronic to reggae to indie and everything in between.
Happening Since
2010
Location
Live Oak, FL
2011 Headliners
The Flaming Lips, STS9, Girl Talk, Eoto, Ghostland Observatory
Blackwater Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Blackwater Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Burning Man
Description
Burning Man is more of an art "event" than a music festival, but this weeklong gathering hovers on the fissure where tomorrow's new sounds bubble up from the underground. The Burn is not about headlining artists, but rather about highlighting the fact that each of us is an artist. Also, unlike "festivals", Burning Man does not provide a stage, there is no food being sold, no showers to clean yourself off, etc. Every single aspect of Black Rock City (it's home) is purchased, created, brought in, set up (and sometimes burned) by the participants. It's not for the day tripper for sure but give in to it and you just might be blown away but what comes out. To experience this genesis point of sound and art for yourself, start planning now for the adventure of a lifetime.
Happening Since
1986
Location
Black Rock, NV
2011 Headliners
N/A
Burning Man 2012 Dates
8/27-9/3
Burning Man 2012 Lineup
N/A
Decibel Festival
Description
This fantastic festival takes place in clubs, lounges, symphony halls, parks and museums around Seattle and continues to book a stellar lineup year after year. In fall 2011, Decibel celebrated its largest edition to date, pulling in over 23,000 attendees following a move from its home base at Capitol Hill to downtown Seattle in 2011. Decibel is undoubtedly one of the most exciting new electronic music festivals to hit the scene in the past decade and should be high on the list of any and all beat freaks from around the world.
Happening Since
2003
Location
Seattle, WA
2011 Headliners
Mad Professor, Bonobo, Kyle Hall, Ladytron
Decibel Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Decibel Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Popped Music Festival
Description
To say that the Popped Music Festival faced some challenges in their first year would be an understatement. Hurricane Irene basically flooded the whole city mere days before the slated outdoor festival was to happen and it had to be moved indoors. Although there were issues, we hope to see this show back (and outdoors) in 2012.
Happening Since
2011
Location
Philiedelphia, PA
2011 Headliners
The Shins, Pretty Lights, Girl Talk, The Hold Steady, Foster the People
Popped Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Popped Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Earthdance
Description
The Earthdance Global Peace Music Festival is a camp-out celebration for World Peace and Unity, set amidst a beautiful old growth oak forest in Vallejo, CA. The festivalfeatures 5 stages of entertainment uniting Jamband, World, Conscious Lyricism, Electronica, Reggae and Folk. In addition there is a global artisans market, healing village, Kidlandia, speakers forum, activist alley, workshops, all night music cafés and much more!
Happening Since
2004
Location
Vallejo, CA
2011 Headliners
Ziggy Marley, Ghostland Observatory, Tipper, Mimosa, Beats Antique
Earthdance 2012 Dates
TBD
Earthdance 2012 Lineup
TBD
OCTOBER
Austin City Limits
Description
Austin's answer to Coachella and Bonnaroo has become quite a phenomenon in the hot sticky South. This three-day event usually books one of the strongest lineups in the festival circuit, routinely drawing crowds of around 100,000.
Happening Since
2002
Location
Austin, TX
2011 Headliners
Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, Arcade Fire, Coldplay, My Morning Jacket
Austin City Limits 2012 Dates
10/12-10/14
Austin City Limits 2012 Lineup
TBD
Monster Massive
Description
The annual electronic music festival held over Halloween weekend in LA brings together the biggest names in electronic music. Although the 14th year of Monster Massive was canceled in 2011, we're hoping for the return in 2012!
Happening Since
1998
Location
Oak Canyon Park & Lake Irvine
2011 Headliners
No Event
Monster Massive 2012 Dates
TBD
Monster Massive 2012 Lineup
TBD
Treasure Island Music Festival
Description
Going into its fifth year, this island-located boutique festival is one of NorCal's most beloved music events. An eclectic and cutting edge (but manageable) lineup attracts out-of-towners and locals alike, who need not scramble to catch all their favorites -- just two stages that alternate guarantees you can catch every act, complete with an intimate vibe, gorgeous, panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, Silent Disco, costumed revelers and bites from gourmet local restaurants.
Happening Since
2007
Location
San Francisco, CA
2011 Headliners
Empire of the Sun, Cut Copy, Chromeo, Death Cab for Cutie, Explosions in the Sky, Death From Above 1979, The Hold Steady
Treasure Island Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Treasure Island Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
Description
This free music festival is funded by a rich philanthropist takes place over three days in gorgeous Golden Gate Park. No longer just "strictly" bluegrass, the festival offers a stacked lineup of talent and a folksy, fun crowd that comes out to revel in the fall sunshine.
Happening Since
2001
Location
San Francisco, CA
2011 Headliners
Chris Isaak, Robert Plant, Broken Social Scene, Bright Eyes, Bela Fleck
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2012 Dates
10/5-10/7
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2012 Lineup
TBD
CMJ
Description
CMJ is the proving grounds for the bands that are on the brink of stardom. During the five-day conference, over a thousand artists perform in nearly 100 venues throughout New York City, making CMJ a must for music lovers. 2011 will be the 31st year of the festival, which expects to see over 12,000 music professionals and 120,000 fans converge together for an exciting week of sonic euphoria.
Happening Since
1978
Location
New York, NY
2011 Headliners
Portugal. The Man, CSS, Neon Indian, Wombats, Wild Flag, MetroNomy
CMJ 2012 Dates
10/16-10/20
CMJ 2012 Lineup
TBD
Deluna Festival
Description
If you'd rather watch a show from a hot tub on the beach next to the stage, instead of in a huge crowd of people in a field then Deluna is the festival for you. The fest, going into its 2nd year, has been dubbed "the first Resort Destination Festival," and "America's First Beach Party" with a jam-packed line-up and stages set up at multiple resorts in Pensacola, FL.
Happening Since
2010
Location
Pensicola, FL
2011 Headliners
Janes Addiction, Weezer, The Shins, Girl Talk, CAKE, Big Boi, Cut Copy, Diplo
Deluna Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Deluna Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
MoogFest
Description
Busting onto the scene with a new home in Asheville, North Carolina, Moogfest managed to book some of the most exciting up-and-coming, avant-garde artists in the nation – you know, the people that everyone ELSE will be talking about next year. Taking place over Halloween weekend, this three-day event is a celebration of innovation – so expect the forward-thinking lineups to continue.
Happening Since
2007
Location
Asheville, NC
2011 Headliners
The Flaming Lips, Passion Pit, STS9, Tangerine Dream, Chromeo, Ghostland Observatory
MoogFest 2012 Dates
TBD
MoogFest 2012 Lineup
TBD
Voodoo Festival
Description
NoLA's Voodoo Music Experience has become a Halloween weekend tradition, bringing some of the biggest artists on the map to the Big Easy for a three-day throwdown. Set against the backdrop of City Park, the festival is usually accompanied by ideal weather, classic Louisiana cuisine and plenty of crowd-pleasing concerts. Additional Voodoo Experience 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2005
Location
New Orleans, LA
2011 Headliners
Soundgarden, Blink 182, The Raconteurs, Snoop Dogg, The Original Meters, Fatboy Slim, Girl Talk
Voodoo Festival 2012 Dates
10/26-10/28
Voodoo Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
NOVEMBER
Bear Creek Music Festival
Description
With its six stages (three outdoors; three indoors), the beautiful northern Florida facility played host to a five-day musical time warp.
Happening Since
2007
Location
Live Oak, FL
2011 Headliners
Trey Anastasio Band, Medeski-Scofield-Martin & Wood, The Funky Meters, Galactic, Soul Live
Bear Creek Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Bear Creek Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
FFF Fest
Description
There's never a bad time to head to Austin, TX but sometimes are just better (or more fun if you will) than others. Fun Fun Fun Fest is one of those "you should be Austin" kind of weekends. 3 days of musical mayhem on 4 stages with a lineup that makes you wonder if the promoters are genius or just plain crazy. What ever the answer is, fun is most certainly on the agenda.
Happening Since
2005
Location
Austin, TX
2011 Headliners
Spoon, Passion Pit, Slayer, Public Enemy, Major Lazer
FFF Fest 2012 Dates
11/2-11/4
FFF Fest 2012 Lineup
TBD
DECEMBER
Snowglobe Festival
Description
A newbie on the festival circuit and hopefully a soon to be standard to the festival roster, Snowglobe brings people to the party town of South Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada border) for rippin outdoor winterfest to ring in the new year. The inaugural lineup included the likes of Pretty Lights, Bassnectar and Thievery Corp. Hope their sophmore offering is as strong.
Happening Since
2011
Location
South Lake Tahoe, CA
2011 Headliners
Pretty Lights, Thievery Corporation, Glitch Mob, Bassnectar
Snowglobe Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Snowglobe Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
*It's a long long list, so make sure to CTRL+ F if you're looking for a specific festival or search by month*
The 2012 Music Festivals are underway and it's high time you start making your travel plans. From New York to San Francisco, Chicago to Los Angeles and everything in between, these are the festivals you don't want to miss in 2012. Whether it's electronic music festivals like Ultra Music Festival, Electric Daisy Carnival or Electric Zoo or massive multi-day gatherings like Coachella, Bonnaroo and Austin City Limits, summer festivals or winter throwdowns, MetroWize has the goods on dates, lineup and information on over 70 fests from around the country. Make sure to bookmark this page because we will be updating it regularly throughout the year as more details are released.
JANUARY
BPM Festival
Description
Winter is a cold and nasty season just about everywhere but not in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. Things get even hotter during the BPM festival with 10 days of great music, beach parties, all night club events and yacht bashes. Now in it's 5th iteration, it is quickly becoming THE spot that the industry people head to after the hectic NYE season. Additional BPM Festival 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2008
Location
Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
2011 Headliners
Dubfire, David Morales, Sander Kleinenberg, Richie Hawtin, Steve Angello, Victor Calderone
BPM Festival 2012 Dates
12/30-1/8
BPM Festival 2012 Lineup
Steve Angello, Danny Tenaglia, Danny Howells, Richie Hawtin, John Digweed, Cedric Gervais, Dirty South
Holy Ship
Description
The people behind Hard Fest (LA and NYC) and HARD NYE have decided to take the show on the road (or water as the case may be). 3 days of debauchery on a boat with 3000 partiers and killer DJ talent just might be the best way to start 2012.
Happening Since
2012
Location
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
2011 Headliners
N/A
Holy Ship 2012 Dates
1/6-1/9
Holy Ship 2012 Lineup
Fatboy Slim, Laidback Luke, Steve Aoki, Diplo, Rusko, Boys Noize, Rusko, A-Trak
Jam Cruise
Description
Similar in concept to Holy Ship but oh so different in vibe, Jam Cruise has been rockin' this heady boat for a full decade. The 5 day voyage includes a ton of great shows, workshops, excursions and good times for all.
Happening Since
2002
Location
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
2011 Headliners
Bob Weir, Rythym Devils, Robert Randolph, Galactic
Jam Cruise 2012 Dates
1/9-1/14
Jam Cruise 2012 Lineup
Umphreys McGee, Galactic, Keller & The Keels, Toots & The Maytals
Groove Cruise
Description
2000 sexy people, 72 hours, 55 artists and 9 party experiences on a massive cruise ship. What started as a group of 125 friends going on a cruise in 2004 has erupted in to the world's largest fully charted dance music cruise experience. The Groove Cruise is geared towards those who love dance music and who live by the mantra to 'Work Hard and Play Harder'.
Happening Since
2004
Location
Miami, FL
2011 Headliners
Dirty South, Funkagenda, Boris, Oscar G
Groove Cruise 2012 Dates
1/27-1/30
Groove Cruise 2012 Lineup
Sander Van Doorn, Roger Sanchez, Boris, Funkagenda, Donald Glaude
FEBRUARY
Noisepop
Description
San Francisco's premiere indie rock festival has been consistently booking many of the future stars of rock, punk, hip hop, rap and alternative for almost 20 years. Often compared to NYC's CMJ Festival, this six-day festival also features film screenings, panels and live art showings at venues all over the city.
Happening Since
1993
Location
San Francisco, CA
2011 Headliners
Aesop Rock, Best Coast, Kid Koala, The Stone Foxes, Peanut Butter Wolf
Noisepop 2012 Dates
2/21-2/26
Noisepop 2012 Lineup
Die Antwoord, Grime, Budos Band, Built to Spill, Archers of Loaf, Cursive, Imperial Teen
MARCH
Snowball Festival
Description
Vail Valley is the backdrop for this epic winter music festival with a very unique feature: 6000 acres of fresh snow. Skiers and snowboarders will delight at this breathtaking experience that combines the best of the beats with huge slices of mountain plus three terrain parks and seven bowls! And booming into the peaks will be bass as big as the mountains themselves, from some of the biggest names in the festival circuit. Do you have your boots on yet? Additional Snowball Festival 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2011
Location
Vail Valley, CO
2011 Headliners
Pretty Lights, Bassnectar, The Flaming Lips, Diplo, Edward Sharp and Magnetic Zeros
Snowball Festival 2012 Dates
3/2-3/4
Snowball Festival 2012 Lineup
Bassnectar, Ghostland Observatory, MartyParty, MiMOSA, Rusko TV on the Radio
Cyprus Hill Smokeout
Description
As if southern California needs a reason to light up another spliff, Cypress Hill's annual Smokeout "Mind Opening Music Festival" provides a potent excuse for a celebration of steazy beats and sticky green. Held at NOS Events Center, a giant outdoor fairgrounds east of Los Angeles, the Smokeout is known for its diversity in booking and solid history in the community. With plenty of stages, vending, and room to run around, the Smokeout is a festival that any music lover, stoner or not, would enjoy.
Happening Since
1998
Location
San Bernadino, CA
2011 Headliners
No event
Cyprus Hill Smokeout 2012 Dates
3/3/2011
Cyprus Hill Smokeout 2012 Lineup
Sublime With Rome, Cypress Hill, Korn, Wiz Khalifa, The Dirty Heads
SXSW
Description
The SXSW Music and Media Conference showcases hundreds of musical acts from around the globe on over ninety stages in downtown Austin. One of the most important schmoozing festivals for music industry insiders, in 2011 SXSW welcomed over 13,000 industry reps and over 2000 performing bands.
Happening Since
1987
Location
Austin, TX
2011 Headliners
Kanye West, Conan O'Brien, Erykah Badu, Beats Antique, MSTRKRFT, James Blake
SXSW 2012 Dates
3/9-3/18
SXSW 2012 Lineup
TBD
Winter Music Conference
Description
The Winter Music Conference is the godfather of dance music festivals. Much more than just a party, WMC is an industry trade show, networking platform and the foundation of what is now known as Miami Music Week. 10 days of pure mayhem with some of the biggest names in dance music at pools, clubs, mansions, yachts, you name it.
Happening Since
1984
Location
Miami, FL
2011 Headliners
Danny Tenaglia, Derrick Carter, Markus Schulz, Victor Calderone, Vandalism, Doc Martin
Winter Music Conference 2012 Dates
3/16-3/25
Winter Music Conference 2012 Lineup
TBD
Suwanee Springfest
Description
The 16th annual festival is set for March 23-25 at the Spirit Of The Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, Fla. The event prides itself on booking a mix of new and traditional folk, roots rock, bluegrass and newgrass, and other American roots music.
Happening Since
1996
Location
Live Oak, FL
2011 Headliners
The Avett Brothers, David Grisman, Donna the Buffalo, Emmitt-Nershi Band
Suwanee Springfest 2012 Dates
3/22-3/25
Suwanee Springfest 2012 Lineup
Yonder Mountain String Band, Peter Rowan & Tony Rice Duo, Donna the Buffalo, Justin Townes, Emmitt Nershi Band
Ultra Music Festival
Description
The biggest dance music event in America, Ultra drew a record breaking 150,000 attendees over 3 ridiculous days of the biggest acts in electronica and cross over genre's. 2012 promises to be even bigger due to the realigning of the dates with the famed WMC event.
Happening Since
1999
Location
Miami, FL
2011 Headliners
Tiesto, Deadmau5, The Chemical Brothers, Empire of The Sun, Carl Cox, David Guetta, Skrillex
Ultra Music Festival 2012 Dates
3/23-3/25
Ultra Music Festival 2012 Lineup
David Guetta, Tiesto, Justice, Skrillex, Avicii, Armin Van Buuren, Carl Cox See full Ultra Music Festival 2012 Lineup
APRIL
Coachella
Description
California's flagship festival, Coachella, is branching out over two weekends next year, but that doesn't mean fans are in for an epic 10-day music festival. Instead, the weekend event is simply going to be staged twice; same lineup, same art, same place, just different people. Coachella boasts five large stages, an epic campground and an open-minded crowd that is ready to party.
Happening Since
1999
Location
Indio, CA
2011 Headliners
Kanye West, Kings of Leon, Arcade Fire, The Black Keys, The Chemical Brothers
Coachella 2012 Dates
4/13-4/15, 4/20-4/22
Coachella 2012 Lineup
TBD
Nocturnal Festival
Description
Kicking off in 2010 Insomniac surprised us with Nocturnal Festival Texas held at Apache Pass Fairgrounds in Rockdale, Texas. The festival went over well and returned in 2011 for two days with everyone from Bassnecter to Kaskade. We're excited to see who they decide to bring in for 2012.
Happening Since
2010
Location
Apache Pass, Downtown, TX
2011 Headliners
Bassnecter, Ghostland Observatory, Above & Beyond, Kaskade, Excision, Pendulum
Nocturnal Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Nocturnal Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Jazzfest
Description
For over 4 decades, Jazzfest (AKA New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival) has been welcoming some of the biggest names in the biz to the big easy for 10 solid days of music and mayhem. Any good festival goer knows that Jazzfest is a bucketlister. Additional Jazzfest 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
1970
Location
New Orleans, LA
2011 Headliners
Arcade Fire, Bon Jovi, Jimmy Buffet, Kid Rock, Robert Plant, Wilco, Willy Nelson
Jazzfest 2012 Dates
4/27-5/6
Jazzfest 2012 Lineup
Eagles, Tom Petty, Foo Fighters, My Morning Jacket, Al Green
MAY
SunFest
Description
When it all started 35 years ago in 1975 it was originally called "Save Six for September". Now known as SunFest, this West Palm Beach, FL event is a musical and art festival held annually on the first week of May. Being the state's largest waterfront music and art festival SunFest attracts more than 275,000 visitors.
Happening Since
1982
Location
West Palm Beach, FL
2011 Headliners
Jason Mraz, Earth, Wind & Fire, Styx, MGMT, Sublime with Rome, Cee Lo Green, Jeff Beck
SunFest 2012 Dates
5/2-5/6
SunFest 2012 Lineup
Grace Potter & The Nocturnals, Gipsy Kings, Girl Talk, LMFAO
Joshua Tree Music Festival
Description
This intimate desert festival held at Joshua Tree Lake Campground near Joshua Tree National Park is the antithesis to the mega-fests that otherwise claim music lovers' attention in SoCal. Based around a bowl of sound and set under a purple carpet of stars, this camping festival highlights the surrounding natural scenery and is a breath of fresh air in the festival world. No security detail with orange vests, no corporate sponsors. Just fresh air, desert breezes and music from all over the world.
Happening Since
2003
Location
Joshua Tree, CA
2011 Headliners
Vieux Farka Toure, Pimps of Joytime, Chali 2na
Joshua Tree Music Festival 2012 Dates
5/18-5/20
Joshua Tree Music Festival 2012 Lineup
Fort Knox Five, Gaudi, Wunmi, Oka, See-i, Sarazino, Nikodemus, Breakestra
Summer Camp Music Festival
Description
Now expanded to three days of music, Summer Camp Music Festival sets six stages across the beautiful Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, Illinois. This outdoor camping event has not only been growing, but also booking an impressive roster of live bands, jam music and electronic artists. Priding itself on a "family" atmosphere, Summer Camp does not allow campers to bring in any alcohol, and has a special activity zones for kids.
Happening Since
2001
Location
Chilicothe, IL
2011 Headliners
Umphreys McGee, Moe, STS9, Daedelus, Bassnectar, Girl Talk, Avett Brothers
Summer Camp Music Festival 2012 Dates
5/25-5/27
Summer Camp Music Festival 2012 Lineup
Moe. (3 nights), Umphrey's McGee, Bob Weir Trio, Primus, Gogol Bordello, Ozomatli
Movement Electronic Music Festival
Description
Despite frequent changes in name and management, the Detroit Electronic Music Festival, held annually over the Memorial Day weekend since the millennium, is still alive and strong. Now called the Movement, the massive, 36-hour party draws tens of thousands of fans to the birthplace of techno, filling up Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit to capacity and beyond.
Happening Since
2000
Location
Detroit, MI
2011 Headliners
Richie Hawtin, James Zabiela, Dubfire, Mimosa, Carl Craig, Ana Sia
Movement Electronic Music Festival 2012 Dates
5/26-5/28
Movement Electronic Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
MUTEK
Description
A smartly curated, five-day festival in Montreal, MUTEK highlights cutting-edge electronic music and digital media. In its 13th edition, more than 100 artists, panelists, and industry professionals will participate in what has become a leading event of its kind in North America.
Happening Since
2000
Location
Montreal, Canada
2011 Headliners
Modeselektor, Gold Panda, Four Tet, Amon Tobin
MUTEK 2012 Dates
5/30-6/3
MUTEK 2012 Lineup
TBD
Hangout Festival
Description
Set right next to the ocean in scenic Gulf Shores, Alabama, the Hangout Music Festival is a fairly new festival that features an eclectic mix of rock-heavy performances. With stages set directly on the white sandy beach and a backdrop of peaceful ocean views, this three-day festival starts with a prefest on May 19 and even has a kids' stage for the wee ones who like to rock out.
Happening Since
2010
Location
Gulf Shores, AL
2011 Headliners
Widespread Panic, Foo Fighters, Paul Simon, My Morning Jacket, The Black Keys, STS9, Bassnectar
Hangout Festival 2012 Dates
5/18-5/20
Hangout Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Sasquatch
Description
The Gorge is one of the most beautiful venues in the world, set on the edge of the Columbia River gorge in eastern Washington. It is well worth the drive during Memorial Day Weekend when Sasquatch descends on the river; this festival is big but not too big, with acts that are known but not KNOWN. In 2012, the festival will again be four days, and will include re-entry for wristband holders. Dates will be May 25th to May 29th.
Happening Since
2002
Location
George, WA
2011 Headliners
Foo Fighters, Flying Lotus, Death Cab For Cutie, Modest Mouse, Wilco, The Flaming Lips, The Decemberists, Bassnectar
Sasquatch 2012 Dates
TBD
Sasquatch 2012 Lineup
TBD
Lightning in a Bottle
Description
This sustainable festival put on by The Do Lab at Oak Canyon Ranch is a beautiful participatory experience of live music and dance-friendly beats, incredible art installations, smiling faces, mind and body workshops and more. The antidote to soulless raves, this four-day outdoor event is uniquely full of heart and a true community experience.
Happening Since
2004
Location
Silverado, CA
2011 Headliners
Pretty Lights, Thievery Corporation, Lucent Dossier, Mimosa, Beats Antique
Lightning in a Bottle 2012 Dates
TBD
Lightning in a Bottle 2012 Lineup
TBD
Wakarusa
Description
Deep in Arkansas' charming Ozark mountains you will find a HUGE music festival that goes by the name: Wakarusa. Selling out in 2010, this festival is just getting bigger and better every year with an eclectic mix of artists and a smattering of fun diversions for festival guests: hiking, Frisbee golf, yoga and of course swimming in the gorgeous Mulberry River. Additional Wakarusa 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2004
Location
Mulberry Mountain, AR
2011 Headliners
My Morning Jacket, Ben Harper, Thievery Corporation, STS9, Bassnectar, Shpongle, Skrillex
Wakarusa 2012 Dates
5/31-6/3
Wakarusa 2012 Lineup
TBD
JUNE
Free Press Summerfest
Happening Since
2009
Location
Houston, TX
2011 Headliners
Weezer, MF Doom, Cut Copy, Ween, Yeasayer, Chromeo, Big Boi
Free Press Summerfest 2012 Dates
6/2-6/3
Free Press Summerfest 2012 Lineup
TBD
Bonnaroo
Description
Perhaps the best festival on the East Coast, and certainly one of the biggest, Bonnaroo sees over 100,000 attendees descend on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee each summer. In addition to an unrivaled music lineup, comedy is also a focus of this outdoor camping mega festival. Additional Bonnaroo 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2002
Location
Manchester, TN
2011 Headliners
Eminem, Arcade Fire, Widespread Panic, Black Keys
Bonnaroo 2012 Dates
6/7-6/10
Bonnaroo 2012 Lineup
TBD
Electric Daisy Carnival
Description
2011 was a critical moment for the biggest dance music festival in the US. After problems at their old location in Los Angeles, the festival made the decision to move to Las Vegas. Apparently it was a good one. 2011 was a huge success with over 225,000 attendees and 2012 has already been green lighted in the same location. The lineup will no doubt be massive. Stay tuned for details.
Happening Since
1996
Location
Las Vegas, NV
2011 Headliners
Tiesto, David Guetta, Swedish House Mafia
Electric Daisy Carnival 2012 Dates
6/8-6/10
Electric Daisy Carnival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Electric Forest
Description
A collaborative enterprise from Madison House Publicity (known for Jam band and Blue Grass acts and events) and Insomniac (arguably the biggest Dance Music event organizer in the country), Electric Forest picks up where Rothbury Festival left off in 2009. Held in Rothbury, MI., this event promises the beauty of the outdoors, the pleasant sound of a guitar strumming and some ground shakin' bass from some of the biggest names on the club circuit all at the same time... Oh yeah, it's Independence weekend so expect fireworks to boot!
Happening Since
2011
Location
Rothbury, MI
2011 Headliners
String Cheese Incident, Tiesto, Kaskade, Pretty Lights, Bassnectar
Electric Forest 2012 Dates
6/28-7/1
Electric Forest 2012 Lineup
TBD
Summerfest
Description
Believe it or not, Summerfest in Milwaukee is the largest festival in the United States in terms of attendance. It has hosted nearly every big name in music at one time or another and literally hundreds of thousands of people show up each year to hear music on a dozen stages.
Happening Since
1968
Location
Milwaukee, WI
2011 Headliners
Kanye West, Katy Perry, Kid Cudi, Hall & Oates, The Black Keys
Summerfest 2012 Dates
6/27-7/8
Summerfest 2012 Lineup
TBD
Sonic Bloom
Description
A unified community event, Sonic Bloom highlights the thriving bass music scene in Colorado with a myriad of performers and artists, both homegrown and from further reaches of the beat spectrum. Colorado might not exactly be the West Coast – but this sustainable outdoor festival falls right in line with the "conscious celebration" ethos so popular on the green-leaning Left Coast.
Happening Since
2006
Location
Georgetown, CO
2011 Headliners
Eoto, Tipper, Mala, Vibesquad, MartyParty
Sonic Bloom 2012 Dates
6/22-6/24
Sonic Bloom 2012 Lineup
TBD
Governors Ball
Description
Last year marked the first time the Governors Ball Music Festival took over Governors Ball in NYC. The festival included 12 hours of non-stop beats on two stages with no overlapping sets, so guests could see every act on the bill!
Happening Since
2011
Location
Governors Island, NYC
2011 Headliners
Girl Talk, Pretty Lights, Empire of the Sun, Bib Boi (Outkast)
Governors Ball 2012 Dates
6/23-6/24
Governors Ball 2012 Lineup
TBD
Harmony Festival
Description
One of the Bay Area's top camping music festivals and a celebration of progressive lifestyle, the 33rd annual Harmony Festival shows a strong lineup of eclectic talent for many musical tastes. Don't miss the Mystic Beat Lounge - Techno-Tribal Dance After Dark, a nighttime party with fire performances and visual arts displays. A community-proud event, Harmony also has a playground for kids, yoga sanctuary, eco village, global marketplace, wellness pavilion, harmony altar and healing sanctuary.
Happening Since
1978
Location
Santa Rosa, CA
2011 Headliners
Primus, The Flaming Lips, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Edward Sharpe & Magnetic Zeros, Ghostland Observatory
Harmony Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Harmony Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
JULY
High Sierra Music Festival
Description
This mid-size festival has been lighting up the mountains and hills of northern California for over twenty years. Located about 80 miles north of Reno, NV, the High Sierra fest highlights an eclectic array of musical offerings focused on jazz, newgrass, bluegrass and jam bands and also featuring funk, electronica and world music. Guests of the festival will also find workshops, classes, shopping and family-oriented activities.
Happening Since
1990
Location
Quincy, CA
2011 Headliners
My Morning Jacket, Ween, Neko Case, Yonder Mountain String Band, Maceo Parker
High Sierra Music Festival 2012 Dates
7/5-7/8
High Sierra Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Gathering of the Vibes
Description
The four day music, camping and arts festival that celebrates the Grateful Dead brings together all types of music is set to take place in Seaside Park, Bridgeport CT. The 16 year old festival features everything from funk to reggae and is hosted by Master of Ceremonies Wavy Gravy.
Happening Since
1996
Location
Seaside Park, Brigeport CT
2011 Headliners
Furthur, Jane's Addiction, Elvis Costello
Gathering of the Vibes 2012 Dates
7/19-7/22
Gathering of the Vibes 2012 Lineup
TBD
Photosynthsis
Description
A homegrown affair, Photosynthesis is a community-based camping event that showcases local and regional artists as well as bigger "up-and-comers." A party with heart, this intimate affair promises to be even better in 2012, its fifth year of operation.
Happening Since
2008
Location
Neah Bay, WA
2011 Headliners
Tipper, The Flahbulb, Bartel, Richard Devin
Photosynthsis 2012 Dates
TBD
Photosynthsis 2012 Lineup
TBD
Dance.Here.Now
Description
It is safe to say that the inaugural offering of this NYC festival was a big success. A collaboration of NYC mega clubs, Pacha, Cielo and GLO, Dance.Here.Now brought 4 days of big beats and big crowds out on Governors Island over the 4th of July weekend. We look forward to the 2012 offering.
Happening Since
2011
Location
New York, NY
2011 Headliners
Paul Van Dyk, Fat Boy Slim, James Zabiella, Benny Bennassi, Laidback Luke, Victor Calderone
Dance.Here.Now 2012 Dates
TBD
Dance.Here.Now 2012 Lineup
TBD
Pitchfork Music Festival
Description
Love or hate their snarky, snooty reviews, no one can deny that Chicago-based Pitchfork.com has an affect on the evolution of music culture. The website started throwing its own event in 2006, and so far the Pitchfork Music Festival has made as big of as splash as their website by booking both hot-as-fire new artists and those on their way up.
Happening Since
2006
Location
Chicago, IL
2011 Headliners
Animal Collective, Neko Case, Fleet Foxes, James Blake, TV on the Radio, Cut Copy
Pitchfork Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Pitchfork Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
EMRG+N+SEE
Description
Situated smack dab in the heart of Portland, OR, this tastemaker event has cutting-edge lineups and up-and-coming artists from the left field, offering a wide range of live music from West Coast glitch hop to acoustic folk-funk bands to dubbed out electronica and other forms of experimental sounds.
Happening Since
2004
Location
Portland, OR
2011 Headliners
Tipper, Lunice, NiT GriT, Gladkill, Funginears
EMRG+N+SEE 2012 Dates
TBD
EMRG+N+SEE 2012 Lineup
TBD
Big Up
Description
The setting at The Big Up is intimate, with attendance at a mere 5k last year, but the vibe is anything but that. Huge music from some of the best crossover artists in the dance industry makes for a solid summer music event.
Happening Since
2007
Location
Ghent, NY
2011 Headliners
Eoto, Tipper, Big Gigantic, RAQ, Digital Tape Machine
Big Up 2012 Dates
TBD
Big Up 2012 Lineup
TBD
All Good Festival
Description
This east coast festival is jam-band centric and pulls a large number of people to a mountaintop in West Virginia. With two side-by-side stages, no sets ever overlap and you can expect to hear not only jam bands, but also rock, bluegrass, electronic music, reggae and funk. With a laid-back vibe that is perfectly suited to the fresh mountain air, All Good Festival is continuously praised for the top talent as well as the panoramic views of rolling hills.
Happening Since
1997
Location
Masontown, West VA
2011 Headliners
Further feat. Phil Lesh & Bob Weir, Primus, Pretty Lights, STS9, moe.
All Good Festival 2012 Dates
7/19-7/22
All Good Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Camp Bisco
Description
This three-day music and arts event in Mariaville, New York brings cutting-edge sounds and rocking dance beats to New England. One of the countries largest and longest running electronic-rock music festivals, the lineup is just getting better and better every year. Additional Camp Bisco 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2001
Location
Mariaville, NY
2011 Headliners
The Disco Biscuits, Cut Copy, Bassnectar, Pretty Lights, Death From Above 1979, MSTRKRFT
Camp Bisco 2012 Dates
7/12-7/14
Camp Bisco 2012 Lineup
TBD
Wanderlust Festival
Description
What do you get when you combine rock and roll and yoga? You get an the epic 4-day throwdown known as Wanderlust Festival. True to its name, Wanderlust takes place in more than one location (or at least it did in 2011) but always picks a locale of stunning natural beauty. This combo of yoga, music and nature will please the body/soul/spirit peeps, and the festival's more intimate nature makes it easy to relax, stretch out and dance.
Happening Since
2009
Location
Squaw Valley, CA
2011 Headliners
Girl Talk, Michael Franti & Spearhead
Wanderlust Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Wanderlust Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
AUGUST
Lollapalooza
Description
Lollapalooza is much older than it acts. In the early 90's, the festival was a roaming tour that hosted then up and comers like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pearl Jam. After a decade long hiatus, Perry Farrell's brainchild festival was reborn in Chicago, where it revels amidst the skyscrapers smack in the middle of the city. Expect Lollapalooza 2012 to bring out many of the brightest stars in rock, punk and electronic music to eight stages in Grant Park over three days.
Happening Since
2005
Location
Chicago, IL
2011 Headliners
Eminem, Foo Fighters, ColdPlay, Muse, Deadmau5
Lollapalooza 2012 Dates
8/3-8/5
Lollapalooza 2012 Lineup
TBD
Outside Lands
Description
In just 3 short years, this 3 day annual festival in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco has proven that it deserves to be in the same league as the Coachella's and Bonnaroo's. Consistently drawing 60k plus and the major headliners of the year, be on the lookout for another big event in 2012.
Happening Since
2008
Location
San Francisco, CA
2011 Headliners
Muse, Phish, Arcade Fire, The Black Keys, Deadmau5, MGMT, Girl Talk
Outside Lands 2012 Dates
TBD
Outside Lands 2012 Lineup
TBD
IDentity Festival
Description
Last summer marked the debut of IDENTITY the first Electronic touring music festival. The festival took over 20 US cities with the biggest names in Electronic music and we can't wait to see who they book this year!
Happening Since
2011
Location
Throughout the US
2011 Headliners
Kaskade, Pretty Lights, Rusko, Avicii, Steve Aoki, Disco Biscuits
IDentity Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
IDentity Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
LouFest
Description
LouFest is a new player on the fest circuit but has made a sizable splash in its 2 years of existence. Close to 20 national and local acts hit 2 stages over the course of 2 days and, like any good festival these days, there is a huge local food and merch presence. All ages event.
Happening Since
2010
Location
St. Louis, MO
2011 Headliners
TV on the Radio, Cat Power, Deer Hunter, !!!
LouFest 2012 Dates
8/25-8/26
LouFest 2012 Lineup
TBD
SEPTEMBER
North Coast Music Festival
Description
Labor Day weekend of 2010 saw the induction of the North Coast Music Festival, a new event put on by fifty different promoters for hipsters, hippies and hip hop heads of the Chicago area. In 2011, the event was again a huge success, drawing more people and more attention. 2012 dates have already been announced. Let the anticipation begin.
Location
Chicago, IL
2011 Headliners
David Guetta, Wiz Khalifa, Thievory Corporation, Common, Lotus, Little Dragon, Neon Indian
North Coast Music Festival 2012 Dates
8/31-9/2
North Coast Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Electric Zoo
Description
New York's biggest electronic dance music event is growing quickly, attracting more and more visitors from out of state and out of country every year. Held at Randall's Island Park, a beautiful location covered with lush grass, Electric Zoo is one of the top music festivals that beat heads try to get to every year. Dates for 2012 have already been green lighted so the hype can start early.
Happening Since
2009
Location
New York, NY
2011 Headliners
Tiesto, David Guetta, Armin Van Buuren, Carl Cox, Moby, Skrillex
Electric Zoo 2012 Dates
8/31-9/2
Electric Zoo 2012 Lineup
TBD
Bumbershoot
Description
Bumbershoot®: Seattle’s Music & Arts Festival is now in its 41st year. Since 1971, Bumbershoot has drawn artists representing the best in music, film, comedy, spoken word, dance, theatre, performance, and visual arts to the Seattle Center over Labor Day weekend. North America’s largest urban arts festival, Bumbershoot takes place in the heart of the city at the 74-acre Seattle Center and draws over 100,000 visitors.
Happening Since
1971
Location
Seattle, WA
2011 Headliners
Ray LaMontagne, Wiz Khalifa, Daryl Hall & John Oates, Broken Social Scene, Minus The Bear
Bumbershoot 2012 Dates
9/1-9/3
Bumbershoot 2012 Lineup
TBD
Telluride Brews and Blues
Description
One of the most scenic music festivals in the country, the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The festival takes place every September as a three-day celebration of music and microbrews, held in the outdoor music venue with breathtaking 13,000 foot mountain peaks for a backdrop. By day, experience live blues, rock, gospel and soul performances and the best microbrews then at night, head into the town of Telluride, with late night juke joints and after-hours jams.
Happening Since
1994
Location
Telluride, CO
2011 Headliners
Willie Nelson, The Flaming Lips, Big Head Todd
Telluride Brews and Blues 2012 Dates
9/14-9/16
Telluride Brews and Blues 2012 Lineup
TBD
Lovevolution
Description
2011 marked the move of Lovevolution from the streets of SF to the Oakland Coliseum. With Moby, The Glitch Mob and more on the bill, the party didn't disappoint and will be back in 2012 with another awesome line up.
Happening Since
2005
Location
Oakland Coliseum, Oakland CA
2011 Headliners
Moby, The Glitch Mob, Pendulum, Laidback Luke, Markus Schulz
Lovevolution 2012 Dates
TBD
Lovevolution 2012 Lineup
TBD
Music Fest NW
Description
The third largest indoor music festival in the US, Musicfest NW has been called one of the "50 Authentic American Experiences" by Time magazine. Known for hosting cutting edge music, MFNW is one of Portland, Oregon's largest and most successful music festivals with artists and bands from indie, hip hop and punk backgrounds performing in multiple venues around the city.
Happening Since
2001
Location
Portland, OR
2011 Headliners
Band of Horses, Iron and Wine, The Kills, Butthole Surfers
Music Fest NW 2012 Dates
TBD
Music Fest NW 2012 Lineup
TBD
Nocturnal Wonderland
Description
This Autumn themed festival from Insomniac brings together some of the biggest names in electronic music for a 12 hour rave! Get ready to party all night in six rooms of amazing music.
Happening Since
1995
Location
Nos Events Center, Los Angeles, CA
2011 Headliners
Fedde Le Grand, Avicii, Aly & Fila, Gareth Emery, 12th Planet
Nocturnal Wonderland 2012 Dates
TBD
Nocturnal Wonderland 2012 Lineup
TBD
Blackwater Music Festival
Description
The Blackwater Music Festival takes place on the edge of the Suwannee River (known for its dark, "black water"
at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park. Going into its third year this 2012, Blackwater has once again proved that they’re batting in the big leagues With 50 plus acts on five stages, Blackwater has one of the most eclectic lineups from electronic to reggae to indie and everything in between.Happening Since
2010
Location
Live Oak, FL
2011 Headliners
The Flaming Lips, STS9, Girl Talk, Eoto, Ghostland Observatory
Blackwater Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Blackwater Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Burning Man
Description
Burning Man is more of an art "event" than a music festival, but this weeklong gathering hovers on the fissure where tomorrow's new sounds bubble up from the underground. The Burn is not about headlining artists, but rather about highlighting the fact that each of us is an artist. Also, unlike "festivals", Burning Man does not provide a stage, there is no food being sold, no showers to clean yourself off, etc. Every single aspect of Black Rock City (it's home) is purchased, created, brought in, set up (and sometimes burned) by the participants. It's not for the day tripper for sure but give in to it and you just might be blown away but what comes out. To experience this genesis point of sound and art for yourself, start planning now for the adventure of a lifetime.
Happening Since
1986
Location
Black Rock, NV
2011 Headliners
N/A
Burning Man 2012 Dates
8/27-9/3
Burning Man 2012 Lineup
N/A
Decibel Festival
Description
This fantastic festival takes place in clubs, lounges, symphony halls, parks and museums around Seattle and continues to book a stellar lineup year after year. In fall 2011, Decibel celebrated its largest edition to date, pulling in over 23,000 attendees following a move from its home base at Capitol Hill to downtown Seattle in 2011. Decibel is undoubtedly one of the most exciting new electronic music festivals to hit the scene in the past decade and should be high on the list of any and all beat freaks from around the world.
Happening Since
2003
Location
Seattle, WA
2011 Headliners
Mad Professor, Bonobo, Kyle Hall, Ladytron
Decibel Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Decibel Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Popped Music Festival
Description
To say that the Popped Music Festival faced some challenges in their first year would be an understatement. Hurricane Irene basically flooded the whole city mere days before the slated outdoor festival was to happen and it had to be moved indoors. Although there were issues, we hope to see this show back (and outdoors) in 2012.
Happening Since
2011
Location
Philiedelphia, PA
2011 Headliners
The Shins, Pretty Lights, Girl Talk, The Hold Steady, Foster the People
Popped Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Popped Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Earthdance
Description
The Earthdance Global Peace Music Festival is a camp-out celebration for World Peace and Unity, set amidst a beautiful old growth oak forest in Vallejo, CA. The festivalfeatures 5 stages of entertainment uniting Jamband, World, Conscious Lyricism, Electronica, Reggae and Folk. In addition there is a global artisans market, healing village, Kidlandia, speakers forum, activist alley, workshops, all night music cafés and much more!
Happening Since
2004
Location
Vallejo, CA
2011 Headliners
Ziggy Marley, Ghostland Observatory, Tipper, Mimosa, Beats Antique
Earthdance 2012 Dates
TBD
Earthdance 2012 Lineup
TBD
OCTOBER
Austin City Limits
Description
Austin's answer to Coachella and Bonnaroo has become quite a phenomenon in the hot sticky South. This three-day event usually books one of the strongest lineups in the festival circuit, routinely drawing crowds of around 100,000.
Happening Since
2002
Location
Austin, TX
2011 Headliners
Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, Arcade Fire, Coldplay, My Morning Jacket
Austin City Limits 2012 Dates
10/12-10/14
Austin City Limits 2012 Lineup
TBD
Monster Massive
Description
The annual electronic music festival held over Halloween weekend in LA brings together the biggest names in electronic music. Although the 14th year of Monster Massive was canceled in 2011, we're hoping for the return in 2012!
Happening Since
1998
Location
Oak Canyon Park & Lake Irvine
2011 Headliners
No Event
Monster Massive 2012 Dates
TBD
Monster Massive 2012 Lineup
TBD
Treasure Island Music Festival
Description
Going into its fifth year, this island-located boutique festival is one of NorCal's most beloved music events. An eclectic and cutting edge (but manageable) lineup attracts out-of-towners and locals alike, who need not scramble to catch all their favorites -- just two stages that alternate guarantees you can catch every act, complete with an intimate vibe, gorgeous, panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, Silent Disco, costumed revelers and bites from gourmet local restaurants.
Happening Since
2007
Location
San Francisco, CA
2011 Headliners
Empire of the Sun, Cut Copy, Chromeo, Death Cab for Cutie, Explosions in the Sky, Death From Above 1979, The Hold Steady
Treasure Island Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Treasure Island Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
Description
This free music festival is funded by a rich philanthropist takes place over three days in gorgeous Golden Gate Park. No longer just "strictly" bluegrass, the festival offers a stacked lineup of talent and a folksy, fun crowd that comes out to revel in the fall sunshine.
Happening Since
2001
Location
San Francisco, CA
2011 Headliners
Chris Isaak, Robert Plant, Broken Social Scene, Bright Eyes, Bela Fleck
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2012 Dates
10/5-10/7
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2012 Lineup
TBD
CMJ
Description
CMJ is the proving grounds for the bands that are on the brink of stardom. During the five-day conference, over a thousand artists perform in nearly 100 venues throughout New York City, making CMJ a must for music lovers. 2011 will be the 31st year of the festival, which expects to see over 12,000 music professionals and 120,000 fans converge together for an exciting week of sonic euphoria.
Happening Since
1978
Location
New York, NY
2011 Headliners
Portugal. The Man, CSS, Neon Indian, Wombats, Wild Flag, MetroNomy
CMJ 2012 Dates
10/16-10/20
CMJ 2012 Lineup
TBD
Deluna Festival
Description
If you'd rather watch a show from a hot tub on the beach next to the stage, instead of in a huge crowd of people in a field then Deluna is the festival for you. The fest, going into its 2nd year, has been dubbed "the first Resort Destination Festival," and "America's First Beach Party" with a jam-packed line-up and stages set up at multiple resorts in Pensacola, FL.
Happening Since
2010
Location
Pensicola, FL
2011 Headliners
Janes Addiction, Weezer, The Shins, Girl Talk, CAKE, Big Boi, Cut Copy, Diplo
Deluna Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Deluna Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
MoogFest
Description
Busting onto the scene with a new home in Asheville, North Carolina, Moogfest managed to book some of the most exciting up-and-coming, avant-garde artists in the nation – you know, the people that everyone ELSE will be talking about next year. Taking place over Halloween weekend, this three-day event is a celebration of innovation – so expect the forward-thinking lineups to continue.
Happening Since
2007
Location
Asheville, NC
2011 Headliners
The Flaming Lips, Passion Pit, STS9, Tangerine Dream, Chromeo, Ghostland Observatory
MoogFest 2012 Dates
TBD
MoogFest 2012 Lineup
TBD
Voodoo Festival
Description
NoLA's Voodoo Music Experience has become a Halloween weekend tradition, bringing some of the biggest artists on the map to the Big Easy for a three-day throwdown. Set against the backdrop of City Park, the festival is usually accompanied by ideal weather, classic Louisiana cuisine and plenty of crowd-pleasing concerts. Additional Voodoo Experience 2012 coverage.
Happening Since
2005
Location
New Orleans, LA
2011 Headliners
Soundgarden, Blink 182, The Raconteurs, Snoop Dogg, The Original Meters, Fatboy Slim, Girl Talk
Voodoo Festival 2012 Dates
10/26-10/28
Voodoo Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
NOVEMBER
Bear Creek Music Festival
Description
With its six stages (three outdoors; three indoors), the beautiful northern Florida facility played host to a five-day musical time warp.
Happening Since
2007
Location
Live Oak, FL
2011 Headliners
Trey Anastasio Band, Medeski-Scofield-Martin & Wood, The Funky Meters, Galactic, Soul Live
Bear Creek Music Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Bear Creek Music Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
FFF Fest
Description
There's never a bad time to head to Austin, TX but sometimes are just better (or more fun if you will) than others. Fun Fun Fun Fest is one of those "you should be Austin" kind of weekends. 3 days of musical mayhem on 4 stages with a lineup that makes you wonder if the promoters are genius or just plain crazy. What ever the answer is, fun is most certainly on the agenda.
Happening Since
2005
Location
Austin, TX
2011 Headliners
Spoon, Passion Pit, Slayer, Public Enemy, Major Lazer
FFF Fest 2012 Dates
11/2-11/4
FFF Fest 2012 Lineup
TBD
DECEMBER
Snowglobe Festival
Description
A newbie on the festival circuit and hopefully a soon to be standard to the festival roster, Snowglobe brings people to the party town of South Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada border) for rippin outdoor winterfest to ring in the new year. The inaugural lineup included the likes of Pretty Lights, Bassnectar and Thievery Corp. Hope their sophmore offering is as strong.
Happening Since
2011
Location
South Lake Tahoe, CA
2011 Headliners
Pretty Lights, Thievery Corporation, Glitch Mob, Bassnectar
Snowglobe Festival 2012 Dates
TBD
Snowglobe Festival 2012 Lineup
TBD
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