Spring is here, which can only mean one thing: outdoor music festival season.
Most people think that if they want to indulge in good music, good fashion and good vibrations, they have to travel across the country to Coachella. In reality, there are plenty of musical celebrations people can attend on the East Coast, so grab some friends and plenty of gas money because it’s time for a road trip.
New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (April 24 to May 3)
Owned by the Jazz and Heritage Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to education, economic development and cultural enrichment, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, presented by Shell, has one of the largest musical lineups. Though a trip from the mid-Atlantic to the southern gulf of New Orleans is a lot to consider, the cultural payoff of this celebration is worth the ride. Not only does the concert combine legendary acts with more modern performers, but audiences can satisfy all their other senses by purchasing tons of contemporary art and indulging in classic New Orleans cuisine.
Those attending can expect an eclectic showcase featuring artists such as Ed Sheeran, John Legend, Hozier, No Doubt, Keith Urban, Elton John, Macy Gray, The Who, Lenny Kravitz, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga.
Black N’ Blue Bowl (May 16 to May 17)
Compared to many other music festivals the Black N’ Blue Bowl, sponsored by Black N’ Blue Productions, is a more frugal option for most travelers. Located in New York City, people who want to get whiplash from head banging will love the retro metal feel of this show. With musicians from the 80’s up to the present, this year’s lineup features hardcore rock bands such as Crumbsuckers, The Regulators, Expire, Mizery, Heavy Chains, Rude Awakening and Bitter End.
Sweetlife Festival (May 30 to May 31)
Hosted in the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Md., Sweetgreen, a culinary brand dedicated to healthy living, nutrition and sustainability, established the Sweetlife Festival in 2010. In fact, Sweetgreen donates proceeds from the festival to “sweetgreen in schools,” an educational program dedicated to teaching children the benefits of healthy living.
Those who want to enjoy a day of lighthearted music, grassy plains, and local vendors will love this festival. This year’s lineup includes huge names such as Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Charli XCX, Vance Joy, Vic Mensa, Life of Dillon, Marina & the Diamonds and Tove Lo.
Governors Ball (June 5 to June 7)
People who genuinely love the feeling of being on the edge of death in an endless sea of psyched concertgoers should definitely go the Governors Ball. As one of the more popular music festivals out there, the event, held in Randall’s Island Park of New York City, is sure to keep spectators on their toes.
And for those who just want to relax, there’s plenty of space to lay down a blanket away from it all. In addition to acts such as Drake, Florence + the Machine, The Black Keys, Lana Del Ray, Björk, Echosmith and The Districts carefree kids feeling young, wild and free can also indulge in bold attire as girls walk by in sunflower crop tops and Native American headdresses.
Firefly Music Festival (June 18 to June 21)
Located in Dover, De., the Firefly Musical Festival is a fairly new phenomenon established in 2012, but its uniquely earthy approach to the musical experience is noteworthy.
Bring a sleeping bag and pilates mats because over in this wooded area, artsy patrons can pitch a tent for the next three days, enjoy morning yoga sessions, as well as late-night headphone disco parties. This year’s lineup includes Paul McCartney, Kings of Leon, Bastille, Foster the People, Snoop Dogg, Zedd, Cage the Elephant, Logic, The Kooks and The Chainsmokers.
Maryam Outlaw is a freshman journalism major and can be reached at maryamoutlaw@gmail.com.