Few things beat spending time in California in the summer. With options for outdoor adventurists and foodies alike, there are also numerous music festivals. We’ve highlighted some of the top music festivals in California to see this summer!
Across all genres of music, there are shows and concerts to keep an eye out for this summer. California hosts many concerts and festivals, and we’ve highlighted some of our favorites!
First up: Lightning in a Bottle.
This electronic music festival is going on 20-years running, and offers everything from live music to interactive art exhibits and yoga sessions. Lightning in a Bottle is a unique, five-day experience that is known for being a community campout with interesting and fun activities. Some of the artists coming through the festival this year include Liquid Stranger, Sofi Tucker, and Caribou, to name a few! General admission tickets start at $444 for the five-day pass, and there are other VIP packages, and also camping accommodations that are available for purchase. Lighting in a Bottle kicks off on May 24th and runs through May 29th, and is held in Buena Vista, California. Before or after your trip to the festival, consider staying at our Pacific Tradewinds Hostel in nearby San Fransisco!
Next: Newport Beach Jazz Festival
For those looking for a more low-key, chill festival to enjoy while rolling through California, look no further than Newport Beach Jazz Festival. This two-day music fest features not only jazz, but also an international food court, vendor village and amazing views of Newport Beach Back Bay. If you’re a jazz enthusiast, or simply looking for a way to hang out on the beautiful California coastline while soaking in some sun and sounds, consider checking out this gem! Tickets can be purchased for either single day or two-day entry on their website, and rates vary. One more great thing about this festival: it’s not far from our awesome Surf City Hostel in Hermosa Beach! The festival goes from June 3rd until June 4th.
Soak up the sun at Splash House Festival
Another unique way to spend a weekend or two this summer is the Splash House Festival. Held in Palm Springs, California, this festival lets you hang out and enjoy the unique desert landscape and take in great views of the San Jacinto mountain range while you vibe out to some great music. The focus of this festival is Guests of the festival are given access to three different pools in the city, and there are shuttles that are available for hitting up each one. With a great location—near El Paseo, Palm Springs’ version of “Rodeo Drive”—this music festival has a little something for everyone. Note: this festival is 21+, and the venues are subject to capacity limits. Splash House is held over one weekend in June (9th-11th) and then two in August (11th-13th, 18th-20th), so you have plenty of ways to experience this awesome festival.
Interested in learning more about California’s many festivals in 2023? Check out this video!
Once you’ve soaked up the sun and danced the day away, check out our Coyote Ranch Hostel in nearby Joshua Tree!
