Complete Guide to the Best Music Festivals in the World in 2026

This blog post is all about the best music festivals around the world in 2026.

I’ve always believed that combining live music and travel is one of the best ways to see the world.

There’s just something magical about hearing your favourite songs in a place you’ve never been before.

It truly elevates the entire travel experience.

Below, I’ve put together a month-by-month guide to some of the world’s best music festivals. Touching on the vibe, the type of music you’ll find, and which month you can typically expect them to happen.

RELATED Best Music Festivals blog posts to read:

This blog post is all about the best music festivals in the world.

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The Best Music Festivals in the World in 2026

So, if you’ve ever thought about coordinating your travels around the best music festivals, you’re definitely not alone.

Below, I’ve put together a month-by-month guide to some of the world’s best music festivals.

Some are massive and world-renowned (hello, Glastonbury and Tomorrowland), while others are smaller and more intimate.

Either way, you’ll find something for every music taste, whether you’re a diehard EDM lover, a rock fanatic, or an indie dabbler.

Let’s get started!

January: Laneway Festival (Australia & Beyond)

What Laneway Festival is About

The first of the best music festivals of the calendar year usually belongs to the Laneway Festival.

Taking place across several cities in Australia like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth, and also expanding to Auckland in New Zealand.

Laneway is known for showcasing an eclectic blend of indie, electronic, hip-hop, and pop acts, particularly those on the brink of breaking big.

The Vibe at Laneway Festival

Expect a laid-back summer atmosphere (it’s scorching hot in Australia at this time), great vibes, and a loyal following of music fans who love to support up-and-coming talent.

The 2026 lineup across the different cities include artists like Chappell Roan, Role Model and Wet Leg.

The Best Music Festivals: When Laneway Festival Usually Happens

Auckland will be starting this year’s Laneway Festival on February 5th and ending in Perth on February 15th.

February: Envision Festival (Costa Rica)

What Envision Festival is About

February brings us the Envision Festival in Costa Rica.

An immersive experience that combines electronic, Latin, and world music with elements of sustainability, yoga, and personal development.

If you’ve ever dreamed of partying in the jungle while also attending workshops on wellness, permaculture, and community-building, this might be your ideal festival.

The Vibe at Envision Festival

Very much a spiritual-meets-party environment, where you can dance under the stars, then wake up the next morning for a sunrise yoga session on the beach.

It’s perfect for those who like their festivals to be about more than just the music.

The Best Music Festivals: When Envision Festival Usually Happens

This year’s Envision Festival will be taking place from the 23rd of February until the 2nd of March.

March: Ultra Music Festival (Miami, USA)

What Ultra Music Festival is About

In March, dance music fans flock to the iconic Ultra Music Festival in Miami, Florida.

Ultra is the grand finale of Miami Music Week, bringing in top-tier DJs and electronic acts from across the globe.

Think Armin van Buuren, Carl Cox, David Guetta, and more.

The Vibe at Ultra Music Festival

Ultra is all about high-energy EDM with top-notch sound systems, jaw-dropping light shows, and an electric party atmosphere.

If you love the idea of dancing until sunrise under neon lights, this is your festival.

The Best Music Festivals: When Ultra Music Festival Usually Happens

Late March, often overlapping with spring break, which means the entire city of Miami is buzzing.

The 2026 edition of Ultra Music Festival is taking place 27th – 29th March.

April: Coachella (California, USA)

What Coachella is About

Arguably one of the most famous festivals in the world, Coachella takes place over two consecutive weekends in Indio, California.

This event draws A-list musicians, pop stars, and indie darlings from all corners of the globe, and it’s a major celebrity hotspot.

The Vibe at Coachella

You’ve likely seen the iconic Coachella photos: palm trees, Ferris wheels, and fashionable outfits galore.

Beyond the Instagram moments, though, Coachella is known for its diverse lineups that typically include rock, hip-hop, EDM, and pop acts.

If you can handle the desert heat and the sometimes eye-popping ticket prices, it’s a bucket-list experience.

The Best Music Festivals: When Coachella Usually Happens

Mid-to-late April, though sometimes it can straddle the end of March if the calendar lines up just right.

RELATED blog post to read: The 14 Best Hotels Near Coachella Festival 2026

April: Stagecoach (California, USA)

What Stagecoach is About

Immediately following Coachella, the Stagecoach festival takes over the same venue in Indio, California, but swaps the indie darlings and DJs for country music superstars.

The Vibe at Stagecoach

It’s essentially Coachella’s laid-back, country cousin. Expect cowboy boots, flannel shirts, and line dancing galore.

Headliners often include big names like Luke Combs, Zach Bryan, and Lainey Wilson.

Stagecoach is a dream festival for me and I hope to make it there someday to see a lot of my favourite country music artists in one place.

The Best Music Festivals: When Stagecoach Usually Happens

Late April, just as Coachella winds down.

RELATED blog post to read: Stagecoach Lineup Predictions for 2026: I’m Ready for the Girls

May: Primavera Sound (Barcelona, Spain & More)

What Primavera is About

Primavera Sound in Barcelona has become one of Europe’s top music festivals, boasting an eclectic lineup that spans indie rock, pop, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental genres.

In recent years, Primavera has expanded to other cities, including Porto, Los Angeles, and São Paulo, while still keeping the Barcelona edition as its crown jewel.

The Vibe at Primavera

Primavera is known for attracting a slightly more mature music crowd. People who really appreciate deep, curated lineups.

With big past headliners like Radiohead, Arcade Fire, and Tame Impala, it’s a feast for the musically curious.

The Best Music Festivals: When Primavera Usually Happens

Late May or early June. Expect gorgeous Mediterranean weather, too.

RELATED blog post to read: How to Spend Two Days in Barcelona

June: Glastonbury (Somerset, England)

What Glastonbury is About

You can’t talk about global festivals without a nod to the legendary Glastonbury.

Held on a vast farm in Somerset, Glastonbury is a cultural phenomenon featuring an astounding variety of music, from rock and pop to hip-hop and electronica.

The Vibe at Glastonbury

Imagine 200,000 people descending on the English countryside, often dealing with mud, rain, and sunburns all in one weekend.

It’s renowned for its spirit of inclusivity and artistic expression.

Think of it as a giant playground where you can see Paul McCartney or the Rolling Stones one night, then discover a hidden gem of a folk singer the next morning.

The Best Music Festivals: When Glastonbury Usually Happens

Late June. Definitely bring a pair of wellies as mud is part of the experience.

July: Tomorrowland (Boom, Belgium)

What Tomorrowland is About

For EDM enthusiasts, Tomorrowland is a mecca.

Hosted in the aptly named town of Boom, Belgium, this festival goes all out with elaborate stage designs, over-the-top pyrotechnics, and a lineup that reads like a who’s who of global DJs.

The Vibe at Tomorrowland

Equal parts fairy-tale and rave, Tomorrowland’s stages look like fantasy castles.

It’s a visually stunning experience, and the crowd is truly international. Flags from every corner of the globe wave in the audience.

The Best Music Festivals: When Tomorrowland Usually Happens

Mid-to-late July, occasionally spanning two or three weekends.

August: Lollapalooza (Chicago, USA)

What Lollapalooza is About

Lollapalooza, once a touring festival founded by Perry Farrell of Jane’s Addiction, has found its permanent home in Chicago’s Grant Park.

Over four days, music fans soak up a lineup that ranges from indie bands to hip-hop heavyweights.

The Vibe at Lollapalooza

Chicago in summer is scorching, and Lolla is definitely high-energy and jam-packed with fans from all over.

The skyline backdrop and the breezy lakefront setting help balance out the crowd density.

The Best Music Festivals: When Lollapalooza Usually Happens

Early August, typically a Thursday-to-Sunday affair.

August: Sziget Festival (Budapest, Hungary)

What Sziget is About

Set on Óbudai-sziget, an island in the Danube, Sziget is one of Europe’s largest and most diverse music festivals.

With headliners ranging from pop and rock to EDM and world music, it attracts a massive international crowd.

The Vibe at Sziget

Often referred to as the “Island of Freedom,” Sziget has a communal, almost bohemian feel.

Beyond music, attendees can enjoy art installations, cultural workshops, and even circus performances.

The Best Music Festivals: When Sziget Usually Happens

Mid-August. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore Budapest’s thermal baths and rich history before or after the festival.

August: Reading and Leeds (England)

What Reading and Leeds Fest is About

For those who love rock, punk, or metal, the Reading and Leeds festivals in England are legendary.

These twin festivals run concurrently during the August Bank Holiday, featuring largely the same lineup rotating between the two locations.

The Vibe at Reading and Leeds Festival

Think energetic (and occasionally rowdy) crowds, with a good dose of indie and alternative acts sprinkled in.

It’s particularly popular among younger festival-goers, but the headliners are usually massive rock or hip-hop icons.

The Best Music Festivals: When Reading and Leeds Festival Usually Happens

The final weekend in August. Expect a fair bit of mayhem, so bring your sense of adventure!

September: Rock in Rio (Rio de Janeiro, Brazi)

What Rock in Rio is About

One of the largest music festivals in the world, Rock in Rio has editions in Rio de Janeiro, Lisbon, and sometimes Madrid.

While it started as a rock festival, the lineup now spans pop, metal, and electronic music, featuring artists like Queen, Beyoncé, Guns N’ Roses, and Iron Maiden over the years.

The Vibe at Rock in Rio

If you’re heading to Rio, anticipate hot weather, vibrant local culture, and a crowd that knows how to party.

Lisbon also offers a beautiful European setting if you’re seeking a mid-year or late-summer fest.

The Best Music Festivals: When Rock in Rio Usually Happens

Dates vary, but typically late September (sometimes edging into early October) for the Rio edition.

September: Burning Man (Black Rock Desert, Nevada)

What Burning Man is About:

Although it’s not strictly a music festival, Burning Man is too iconic not to mention.

Each year, a temporary city called Black Rock City is erected in the Nevada desert, dedicated to art, self-expression, and community.

The Vibe at Burning Man

Radical self-reliance is the name of the game.

There’s no set lineup at Burning Man. You’ll find DJs, live bands, pop-up performances, and art cars, but it’s all part of a larger experience about gifting and artistic collaboration.

If you go, be prepared to bring everything you need to survive in the desert.

The Best Music Festivals: When Burning Man Usually Happens

Late August to early September, spanning the week leading up to Labor Day in the USA.

October: Austin City Limits (Austin, USA)

What Austin City Limits is About

Austin City Limits (ACL) is a massive festival held in Zilker Park in two back-to-back weekends.

It takes advantage of the city’s status as the “Live Music Capital of the World” by featuring a wide variety of genres like rock, hip-hop, pop, country, and EDM.

The Vibe at Austin City Limits

Friendly Southern hospitality blended with big-city excitement.

ACL is known for a laid-back atmosphere (at least compared to some of the wilder fests) and consistently strong lineups.

Plus, Austin’s food scene is to die for, so don’t skip the BBQ or Tex-Mex.

The Best Music Festivals: When Austin City Limits Usually Happens

Early to mid-October, benefiting from milder autumn weather in Texas.

November: Iceland Airwaves (Reykjavík, Iceland)

What Iceland Airwaves is About

Set in various venues across downtown Reykjavík, from cozy bars to bigger concert halls, Iceland Airwaves is an indie gem.

It mixes local Icelandic acts with international up-and-comers, offering a unique chance to see different music styles in an intimate, small-city setting.

The Vibe at Iceland Airwaves

Chilly, dark, and totally enchanting.

The charm lies in wandering between venues under the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.

Past performers include Of Monsters and Men and Ásgeir, among many other local talents.

The Best Music Festivals: When Iceland Airwaves Usually Happens

Early November. Dress warmly and brace for limited daylight hours, as it’s all part of the adventure.

December: (A Chance to Discover Smaller Festivals)

December is often a quieter month for major festivals, as many music fans gear up for New Year’s Eve events or holiday travel.

It’s a good time to recharge, or to check out smaller, more local winter festivals if you’re still craving that live music fix.

Depending on where you are in the world, you might find holiday-themed concerts, snow festivals, or indie showcases that keep the musical spirit alive through the colder season.

Camping at the Best Music Festivals: Essentials to Bring

Many of the festivals mentioned above like Glastonbury, Reading and Leeds, or even Sziget encourage or require camping.

Let’s be real, festival camping can be a blast and a challenge in equal measure.

If you’re going to rough it for a few days, don’t forget these essentials:

Wellies (Rain Boots): Mud is a frequent festival companion, especially in places like England or anywhere prone to rain.
Tent: Make sure it’s waterproof and big enough for you (and your mates if you’re sharing). A little extra space can go a long way toward comfort.
Wet Wipes: Sometimes the shower situation can be questionable (or the lines too long). Wet wipes are your hygiene lifeline.
Dry Shampoo: Another lifesaver when you can’t wash your hair.
Portable Charger: Your phone battery will drain quickly from all those photos, videos, and group texts.
Earplugs: Helpful if you’re trying to get some sleep while everyone else is still partying at 4am. Also crucial for protecting your hearing during especially loud sets.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated (and eco-friendly).
Layers of Clothing: Temperatures can swing dramatically, especially if you’re somewhere like the Californian desert or the English countryside.

Top tip: If you hate sleeping on the ground but still want the “camping vibe,” keep an eye out for glamping options at certain festivals.

These can get pricey, but they usually come with pre-set tents, real beds, and sometimes private showers.

If I ever splurge for Coachella in style, that’s probably the route I’ll take!

Best Music Festivals Around the World in 2026

Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or just starting to dabble in the scene, there’s a massive world of best music festivals out there, spanning continents, genres, and cultures.

From partying in the jungles of Costa Rica at Envision to rocking out in the mud at Glastonbury, each festival brings its own unique flavour and energy.

Personally, I so love turning these events into a broader travel adventure. Like that time my boyfriend ended his drive down the Pacific Coast Highway at Coachella.

Sure, it can be expensive, but if you plan ahead and keep an eye out for early-bird tickets, it’s a beautiful way to see more of the world while enjoying live music from artists you love.

And discovering new favourites along the way.

Start Planning Your Trip to One of the Best Music Festivals in the World

Now that you’ve got a month-by-month breakdown (plus a handy packing list for festival camping), you’re well on your way to planning your next music-fuelled journey.

So grab your calendar, choose one of the best music festivals that aligns with your taste (and travel schedule), and start dreaming of the beats, sights, and friendships that await.

Who knows, you might be dancing under the stars in Belgium one month, then jamming to indie bands in Iceland the next.

Happy festival-hopping and safe travels!