As summer 2025 approaches, music enthusiasts across the United States are gearing up for an exciting lineup of festivals featuring diverse genres, renowned artists, and unforgettable experiences. From coast to coast, these events not only showcase major headliners but also highlight cultural trends, immersive environments, and a growing appetite for live performances post-pandemic. Here’s a look at some of the must-attend music festivals happening this summer.
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival – Indio, California
Dates: April 11–13 & April 18–20, 2025
Headliners: Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone, Travis Scott
Returning to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, Coachella continues to be one of the most influential and high-profile festivals in the world. Known for setting fashion trends and showcasing groundbreaking music acts, the 2025 edition is no exception.
Lady Gaga’s headlining performance featured a nearly two-hour set blending her greatest hits with tracks from her latest album, creating an electrifying experience for attendees. Green Day brought nostalgic punk energy to the stage, while Post Malone captivated fans with his cross-genre appeal. Meanwhile, Travis Scott unveiled a unique immersive experience dubbed “CatcusCon,” merging music with digital art and interactive installations.
The festival also boasts large-scale art installations, gourmet food vendors, and innovative brand activations, making it a comprehensive sensory adventure for visitors.
Lollapalooza – Chicago, Illinois
Dates: July 31–August 3, 2025
Headliners: Olivia Rodrigo, Tyler, the Creator, Sabrina Carpenter, Rüfüs Du Sol, Luke Combs, TWICE, A$AP Rocky
Held in the heart of Chicago’s Grant Park, Lollapalooza is renowned for its urban vibe and genre-spanning lineup. This year, the festival embraces diversity more than ever, with performances ranging from indie pop to country, K-pop to EDM.
Olivia Rodrigo headlines with her emotionally charged anthems, drawing a massive crowd of younger fans. Tyler, the Creator delivers a dynamic show known for its theatrical flair, while TWICE becomes the first female K-pop group to headline the event, marking a milestone in cross-cultural music influence.
With its lakeside location and skyline views, Lollapalooza also features culinary showcases, local artisan markets, and sustainability initiatives, contributing to Chicago’s rich cultural landscape.
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival – Manchester, Tennessee
Dates: June 12–15, 2025
Headliners: Tyler, the Creator, Olivia Rodrigo, Luke Combs, Hozier
Nestled in the rolling hills of Tennessee, Bonnaroo offers a unique blend of music, community, and camping. Known for fostering a spirit of togetherness, the festival features not only top-tier artists but also sunrise yoga sessions, pop-up art galleries, and late-night dance parties.
A standout highlight of the 2025 edition is the 1970s-themed Superjam, led by Remi Wolf and joined by a mix of surprise guests. Artists such as Vampire Weekend, Avril Lavigne, and Justice also deliver standout performances, adding layers of musical diversity.
Bonnaroo emphasizes sustainability, with composting initiatives and eco-friendly practices woven into the festival’s core values. The rural setting offers a break from city life and an opportunity for attendees to reconnect with both nature and music.
Governors Ball Music Festival – New York City, New York
Dates: June 6–8, 2025
Headliners: Tyler, the Creator, Olivia Rodrigo, Hozier
Set against the urban backdrop of Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, Governors Ball offers a distinctly metropolitan festival experience. With its proximity to Manhattan, the festival draws a wide range of attendees and features a lineup that spans indie, hip-hop, and pop.
This year’s festival includes performances by Glass Animals, Clairo, Feid, and T-Pain, creating a dynamic blend of sounds and styles. Olivia Rodrigo once again headlines, underscoring her dominance across multiple major festivals this summer.
Beyond the music, Governors Ball offers curated food options from New York’s top vendors, art installations, and relaxation zones, blending the city’s cultural richness with the energy of a live concert.
From desert stages to urban parks and countryside fields, the summer 2025 music festival circuit is bursting with options that cater to every taste. With many featuring global artists and immersive environments, these events reflect the evolving landscape of live entertainment and the enduring power of music to bring people together. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned festival-goer, this summer promises to deliver unforgettable memories coast to coast.