Top 2025 Spring Music Festivals in America
As the winter chill fades and spring blossoms into full bloom, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than by immersing yourself in the world of music festivals. Indeed, the United States is home to some of the most electrifying and diverse music festivals, each offering a unique experience for everyone. To give you a better idea, see what are where the best spring music festivals in America are for 2025. So pack your bags, gather your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival – Indio, California
Empire Polo Club
81-800 Avenue 51
Indio, CA 92201
www.coachella.com
Dates: April 12-13 and April 18-20, 2025
You can’t talk about 2025 spring music festivals without mentioning Coachella. Held over two weekends in April, Coachella is a mecca for music enthusiasts, fashionistas, and art lovers alike. Featuring the biggest names in music, such as Lady Gaga, Green Day, Travis Scott and Post Malone, and a picturesque desert backdrop, Coachella offers an immersive experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime. That’s not to mention other big name acts like Missy Elliott, Charli XCX, Megan Thee Stallion, Zedd and the legendary German electronic music band Kraftwerk. If you had only one spring music festival to attend this year, Coachella has to be at the top of your list. In fact, it’s on most every music lovers’ bucket list.
South by Southwest (SXSW) – Austin, Texas
Austin Convention Center
500 E. Cesar Chavez St.
Austin, TX 78701
Dates: March 7-13, 2025
Every March, the vibrant city of Austin transforms into a haven for creatives and music lovers with the arrival of South by Southwest. In some detail, SXSW is a multi-genre festival that showcases emerging talents and established artists across countless venues. For example, featured music artists for 2025 include NSQK, Sofia Reyes, Psychic Fever and Sunflower Bean. That’s not to mention high profile filmmakers who also will be on hand at SXSW. For instance, Ben Affleck, Nicolas Cafe, Paul Rudd, Mimi Cave and more are all set to appear. As you wander from gig to gig, you’ll be treated to a diverse array of sounds and genres that reflect the eclectic spirit of Austin.
Related: Best Attractions in Philadelphia
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – New Orleans, Louisiana
Fair Grounds Race Course
1751 Gentilly Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70119
www.nojazzfest.com
Dates: Thursday, April 24 to Sunday, April 27 and Thursday, May 1 to Sunday May 4, 2025
If you’re a fan of jazz, blues, and the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans, the Jazz & Heritage Festival is an absolute must. Held over two weekends in late April and early May, this spring music festival celebrates the unique music, food, and traditions of the Crescent City. Featured artists for 2025 include Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band John Fogerty and Kacey Musgraves. If that’s not enough, also appearing this year are Luke Combs, Lil Wayne, Lenny Kravitz, Santana, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, HAIM and Harry Connick Jr. As you groove to the rhythms of world-class musicians, you’ll also have the chance to savor delectable Creole cuisine and explore the vibrant local arts scene.
Related: America’s Best 2024 Spring Music Festivals
Ultra Music Festival – Miami, Florida
Bayfront Park
301 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33132
www.ultramusicfestival.com
Dates: Friday, March 28 to Sunday, March 30, 2025
For electronic dance music aficionados, Ultra Music Festival in Miami is the place to be. After all, this high-energy festival features top DJs and electronic artists from around the globe. In 2025, expect performances from headliners like Armin van Buuren, Tiësto, Martin Garrix and Hardwell. Furthermore, other big acts like Four Tet, Gesaffelstein, Carl Cox and Skrillex are set to appear. As you dance the night away under the Miami skyline, you’ll be swept up in the infectious beats and electric atmosphere that make Ultra an unforgettable experience.
Stagecoach Festival – Indio, California
Empire Polo Club
81-800 Avenue 51
Indio, CA 92201
www.stagecoachfestival.com
Dates: April 25-27, 2025
Just one week after Coachella, the Empire Polo Club in Indio transforms into the ultimate destination for country music fans. Stagecoach Festival brings together the biggest names in country, folk, and Americana for a foot-stomping good time. Featured artists for 2025 include Zach Bryan, Luke Combs and Jelly. That’s not to mention more big acts like Lana Del Rey, Brothers Osbourne, Nelly, Ashley McBridge and even Sammy Hagar. What’s more, you can enjoy gourmet cuisine from no other than Guy Fieri. Grab your cowboy boots and hat, and get ready to two-step your way through a weekend of incredible performances and down-home fun.
Related: Best Goose and Duck Parades in Europe
The Governors Ball Music Festival – New York, New York
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Grand Central Parkway at Van Wyck Expressway
New York, NY 11354
www.governorsballmusicfestival
Dates: June 6 – 8, 2025
Set against the iconic backdrop of New York City, The Governors Ball is a multi-genre music festival that takes place in early June. With a lineup that spans rock, hip-hop, electronic, and more, this festival offers something for everyone. Look out for performances Tyler, the Creator, Benson Boone, Olivia Rodrigo and Hozier. If you need more convincing, more big acts like Feid, Glass Animals, Tyla and Mt. Joy will be there as well. As you enjoy the music, you’ll also have the chance to indulge in delicious food from some of the city’s best vendors and take in stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
BottleRock Napa Valley – Napa, California
575 Third St.
Napa, CA 94559
www.bottlerocknapavalley.com
Dates: May 23-25, 2025
Combine your love of music and wine at BottleRock Napa Valley, held in late May. In fact, this festival features an impressive lineup of musical acts across various genres, as well as culinary delights from renowned chefs and wine tastings from local vineyards. Featured artists for 2025 include Green Day, Justin Timberlake and Noah Kahan. That’s not to mention additional top acts like Sublime, Benson Boone, Cage the Elephant and Khruangbin. As you sip and savor, you’ll be treated to top-notch performances and a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere.
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) – Las Vegas, Nevada
7000 N. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89115
www.lasvegas.electricdaisycarnival.com
Dates: May 16 – 18, 2025
EDC Las Vegas is a spectacle like no other. Held in May at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, this massive electronic dance music festival features jaw-dropping stages, mesmerizing light shows, and an otherworldly atmosphere. In 2025, expect to see performances by Tiësto, Alesso, Armin Van Buren, Steve Aoki and Zedd. On top of that, you have more headliners like Alison Wonderland, David Guetta, Illenium and Kaskade. As you lose yourself in the music, you’ll be surrounded by a sea of fellow EDM enthusiasts, all united by their love of the beat.
California Roots Music Festival – Monterey, California
Monterey County Fairgrounds
2004 Fairgrounds Road
Monterey, CA 93940
www.californiarootsfestival.com
Dates: May 23-25, 2025
For fans of reggae, hip-hop, and positive vibes, the California Roots Music Festival at the Monterey County Fairgrounds in Monterey, California, is the perfect springtime destination. This festival is a celebration of music, culture, and sustainability, bringing together some of the biggest names in the reggae and hip-hop scenes. The 2025 lineup is headlined by legendary acts such as Steel Pulse, Soja, and Collie Buddz, ensuring a weekend filled with infectious rhythms and uplifting energy. Additional performances by Eli-Mac and T-Pain add a dynamic mix of styles, blending reggae, R&B, and hip-hop influences. As you bask in the sun, surrounded by fellow music lovers and the laid-back atmosphere of Monterey, you’ll find that California Roots is more than just a music festival—it’s a movement that embodies unity, love, and a deep appreciation for artistic expression.
Boston Calling – Boston, Massachusetts
Harvard Athletic Complex
65 N. Harvard St.
Boston, MA 02134
www.bostoncalling.com
Dates: May 23 – 25, 2025
As you step onto the Harvard Athletic Complex grounds on May 23-25, 2025, you will feel the electric atmosphere of Boston Calling. You are in for a treat with a lineup that includes the charismatic Luke Combs, the soulful Megan Moroney and Sheryl Crow. As you wander through the festival, you will be captivated by Avril Lavigne’s punk rock energy, and mesmerized by the Dave Matthews Band’s heartfelt performances. That’s not to mention enjoying Sublime’s timeless hits. Moreover, The Black Crowes will take you on a nostalgic journey with their iconic tunes. This festival truly offers something for everyone.
Rolling Loud – Los Angeles, California
Hollywood Park Grounds
1011 Stadium Dr.
Inglewood, CA 90305
www.cali.rollingloud.com
Dates: March 15 – 16, 2025
When you arrive at the Hollywood Park Grounds on March 15-16, 2025, you will find yourself at the world’s largest hip hop party, Rolling Loud. You will be surrounded by the beats and rhymes of some of the biggest names in hip hop. ASAP Rocky’s electrifying performance will have you on your feet, while Playboi Carti’s unique sound will transport you to another dimension. Peso Pluma will bring a fresh and exciting energy to the stage that you won’t want to miss. This is the place where hip hop lovers unite to celebrate their favorite artists. Of course there are many more artists to appear, including YG, Ken Carson, Sexxy Red and Blxst.
Boardwalk Rock – Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City Inlet Beach
809 S. Atlantic Ave.
Ocean City, MD 21842
www.boardwalkrockfest.com
Dates: May 17-18, 2025
Imagine yourself at Ocean City, Maryland for one of the top spring music festivals with the relatively new Boardwalk Rock. You are in for a heavy metal extravaganza with legendary bands like Def Leppard and Motley Crue setting the stage on fire. As you rock out to Nickelback’s chart-topping hits, you will feel the adrenaline rush through your veins. Of course, Alice Cooper’s theatrical performances will leave you in awe, and Brett Michaels will remind you why he is a rock icon. Then there are more top acts, like Halestorm, Bush, Chevelle, Everclear and 3 Doors Down. In all, the ocean breeze and the sound of crashing waves provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable hard rock festival experience.
Sand in My Boots Music Festival – Gulf Shores, Alabama
101 E. Beach Blvd.
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
www.sandinmybootsfest.com
Dates: May 16-18, 2025
If you’re searching for a festival that blends country and contemporary sounds with a stunning beachfront setting, look no further than the Sand in My Boots Music Festival. Taking place in Gulf Shores, Alabama, this festival promises a weekend of unforgettable performances and laid-back coastal vibes. The 2025 lineup features an exciting mix of artists, including country legends Brooks and Dunn, chart-topping sensation Morgan Wallen, genre-crossing star Post Malone, and country rock powerhouse Hardy. As you sway to the music with the ocean breeze in your hair and the sun setting over the horizon, you’ll experience a festival atmosphere like no other. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or simply love great music in a beautiful setting, Sand in My Boots is sure to be a highlight of the season. However, tickets are now sold out, although you can get on a wait list, in case more tickets become available.
Sonic Temple Music Festival – Columbus, Ohio
Historic Crew Stadium
One Black and Gold Blvd.
Columbus, OH 43211
www.sonictemplefestival.com
Dates: May 8-11, 2025
For rock and metal enthusiasts, the Sonic Temple Music Festival at the historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, is an unmissable event. This festival is known for bringing together some of the biggest names in hard rock and metal, delivering an electrifying experience for fans. The 2025 lineup is stacked with powerhouse headliners, including Metallica, Linkin Park, and Korn, ensuring an unforgettable weekend of headbanging and adrenaline-pumping performances. Additionally, notable acts such as Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie, Alice in Chains, and Incubus add to the festival’s legendary status. As the music reverberates through the stadium and fans unite in their shared passion for rock, Sonic Temple cements itself as a must-attend event for any heavy metal lover.
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival – Manchester, Tennessee
The Farm
2465 New Bushy Branch Road
Manchester, TN 37355
www.bonnaroo.com
Dates: June 12-15, 2025
Last but certainly not the least is the legendary Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. Held in early June on a sprawling farm in Manchester, Bonnaroo is known for its diverse lineup, immersive art installations, and vibrant camping culture. Featured artists for 2025 include Luke Combs, Olivia Rodrigo, Avril Lavigne and Tyler, The Creator. What’s more, other big name act will appear, such as Dom Dolla, Glass Animals, John Summit, Justice, Nelly and Queens of the Stone Age. As you roam the festival grounds and discover new music, you’ll be part of a tight-knit community of festival-goers who share your passion for music and adventure.
Related: America’s Best 2023 Spring Music Festivals
As you plan your spring of 2025, these 15 music festivals offer a wide range of experiences that cater to every musical taste and style. Whether you’re dancing in the desert, grooving to jazz in New Orleans, or soaking up the sun on the beach, each of these festivals promises unforgettable memories and unparalleled experiences. So grab your tickets, gather your friends, and get ready to embark on a musical journey that will define your spring music festival season.
About The Author
Randy Yagi is an award-winning writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS News for eight years. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS News websites, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS News, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He earned a media fellowship from Stanford University and is a Bay Area Travel Writers (BATW) member.
