Festival season starts here, but with so many taking place across the globe, which are truly worth your time?
In recent years, many promoters have raised their game, platforming sustainability, community, art and creativity alongside the headliners, resulting a more dynamic, diverse and inclusive scene than ever before. From contemporary events championing new talent to camping weekenders, sprawling city takeovers and remote gatherings in the wilderness, there’s something for every kind of music lover.
We’ve done the hard graft for you, rounding up the best festivals to start packing for this year, across Europe, the UK, Africa, North America, South America, Asia and Australia. All that’s left for you to do is decide which ones to book.
When 1-2 May, 2026
Where Aarhus, Denmark
What To Expect Spot serves as a platform for the Danish and Nordic music you need to know about: more than 150 acts, across 20 venues over two days. Expect everything from day parties to late-night sets, covering pop, punk, R&B, techno and practically every other musical genre you can think of.
When 14-16 May, 2026
Where Brussels, Belgium
What To Expect A long weekend of electronic music, architecture and contemporary art that transforms a former military base Asiat Park into a creative hub of music, installations and workshops. There’s a lineup of more than 120 music acts alone, from international DJs Daphni, Gilles Peterson & MC Rob Galiano and Todd Edwards to local Belgian acts.
When 3-7 June, 2026
Where Barcelona, Spain
What To Expect The ultimate city festival, hosted a short hop north from central Barcelona at Parc del Fòrum. There’s something for everyone here: artists spanning pop, rock, techno and more – including Doja Cat, Ravyn Lenae (check out our Culture List with her here), The Cure, The xx and Dijon.
When 5-7 June, 2026
Where Paris, France
What To Expect One of a handful of forward-thinking festivals putting sustainability centre stage, We Love Green puts sustainable travel, 100% vegetarian menus and circularity (78% of all waste generated in 2024 was recycled) at the heart of its offering in the Bois de Vincennes, Paris’ largest park. This year, The XX and Addison Rae play exclusive French shows and keep an eye out for French-Congolese singer Theodora, who steps up to a headline slot after wowing on a far smaller stage last year.
When 18-20 June, 2026
Where Barcelona, Spain
What To Expect Sónar – the festival focused on music, creativity and technology – began in Barcelona and now also runs across two weekends in Istanbul and Lisbon. At the OG festival, there are more than 100 acts blending electronic music, technology and art. Headliners include Charlotte de Witte, Amelie Lens, Kelis, Skepta and the Prodigy, with a three-day takeover by Speedy J's STOOR.
When 8-14 July, 2026
Where Tisno, Croatia
What To Expect Love International feels like a hidden adventure, tucked away in the coastal town of Tisno, Croatia. The experience is all about sun-soaked days and starry nights, with beachside dancing, intimate boat parties and sunrise sessions that stretch into the early hours. Across a series of stages, boat parties and events at open-air club Barbarella’s, every corner of Love International is designed for pure escapism.
When 9-11 July, 2026
Where Lisbon, Portugal
What To Expect A vibrant mix of indie, rock, and electronic acts – this year sees a lineup of seasoned headliners including Foo Fighters, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds and Florence & The Machine taking to the stage. It’s also set against the scenic backdrop of Lisbon’s coastline, with the option of ending your night with a stroll on the beach before heading back to your accommodation.
When 13-16 May
Where Tuscany, Italy
What To Expect Less of a traditional festival, and more like four days of what your ideal life could be like if you moved to Tuscany. Think cooking classes with local nonnas, wine tastings in the countryside and days spent by the pool and practising yoga – ahead of nights centred around world-class electronica. Sounds too good to be true – in reality, that’s Flash Festival.
When 28 June-5 July
Where Sète, France
What To Expect A sun-kissed celebration of hip-hop, jazz and electronic music unfolding over a full week in the French town of Sète. Making the most of its Mediterranean setting, Worldwide's diverse roster of artists and DJs draw crowds to day parties at beach bars, late-night DJ sets and spectacular sunset gigs at the town's Roman amphitheatre, with founder Gilles Peterson’s knack for platforming next-generation talent guaranteeing memorable moments.
When 17-20 July, 2026
Where Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
What To Expect You’ll find queer-led electronic and arts festival Whole, now in its eighth edition, at Ferropolis – an imposing open-air museum known as the ‘city of iron’ in Gräfenhainichen. Its ethos is as standout as the location: “a queer gathering of crews, collectives and creators, coming together on their own terms”, defined by vast dancefloors, techno beats and the freedom to be exactly who you are.
When 31 July-2 August, 2026
Where Prishtina, Kosovo
What To Expect Founded by the Lipa family, this festival unites international stars and regional favourites. Since its launch in 2018, it has grown into one of southeast Europe’s biggest cultural events, celebrated not just for its world-class lineups, but for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to spotlighting talent from the region. While this year’s lineup is still under wraps, it’s set to drop soon – keep your eyes peeled.
When 12-15 August, 2026
Where Oslo, Norway
What To Expect Another sustainability champion on the global festival circuit, with carbon metrics to prove it, Oya platforms consistently strong lineups of international acts and Scandi up-and-comers. A scenic setting in the city’s Tøyenparken forms a picturesque backdrop for artists that this year sees the likes of Nick Cave, the Cure and hyped Brooklyn band Geese appearing alongside Lily Allen, Oklou and Sombr.
When 13-14 August, 2026
Where Goteborg, Sweden
What To Expect Three days, multiple genres and a strong focus on sustainability – it’s 100% vegetarian, mostly dairy-free and hold ISO gold certification for responsible events. Held in the Slottsskogen park, it’s right in the central Gothenburg, with events throughout the city carrying things on long after night falls. This year, expect sets from The Cure, Gorillaz, Zara Larsson, DJ Koze and more.
When 26-30 August, 2026
Where Paris, France
What To Expect The picturesque setting of Domaine national de Saint-Cloud, a 460-hectare national park southwest of Paris, hosts to five days of rock, pop and electronic acts this August. This year’s standouts include Tyler, The Creator, Lorde, Lykke Li and Amyl and the Sniffers.
When 4-8 November, 2026
Where Reykjavik, Iceland
What To Expect Winter in the Icelandic capital is far from peak season but while the days are short, the nights are long during the city’s annual Airwaves Festival, where the crowd is renowned for staying up late. For two decades, pioneering experimental lineups of domestic acts and cult touring artists have performed to enthusiastic crowds and next year's festival bookers at venues across the city, from taprooms to churches and the waterfront Harpa concert hall. Plus, with nearby thermal pools, Iceland's golden circle on the doorstep and the possibility of spotting the northern lights, it's a festival that rewards those who extend their stay.
When 29-30 May, 2026
Where Belfast, Northern Ireland
What To Expect AVA, held at Belfast’s historic Titanic Slipways, spotlights both international and local techno, house and electronic artists. Beyond the music, there’s also a line-up of talks and the returning Creators Forum, its artist development programme. This year, headliners include DJ ¥ØU$UK€ ¥UK1MAT$U, Honey Dijon and Annie Mac.
When 30 May 2026
Where London, England
What To Expect You might already know Dialled In as the platform celebrating the depth and diversity of alternative South Asian music and culture. This May, it brings this to life in London with a day-to-night journey with music acts performing everywhere from theatres to clubs across Dalston, East London.
When 11-21 June
Where London, England
What To Expect Delivering something for all tastes, Harry Styles’ immaculately curated takeover of this year's Meltdown Festival is a high-water mark for the long-running event at London’s Southbank, which turns 75 this year. In addition to Harry’s own headline set, expect to find Ethiopian jazz icon Mulatu Astatke alongside Erika de Casier's ethereal dream pop, and star saxophonist Kamasi Washington back to back with indie newcomers The Getdown Services and Bar Italia – surely an indication of the host’s own impeccable record collection.
When 19-21 June, 2026
Where Glasgow Green, Scotland
What To Expect One of Scotland’s biggest festivals, TRNSMT takes over Glasgow Green each summer along the River Clyde. It’s known for its eclectic lineups – this year is no exception, welcoming CMAT (check out our Culture List with her here), Nile Rodgers & Chic, Wolf Alice and Loyle Carner. Expect a high-energy weekend celebrating the best of homegrown and global talent.
When 3-5 July
Where East Sussex, England
What To Expect Three days of jazz, soul and R&B in the UK’s southeast, just 20 minutes from Brighton. (It’s actually Europe’s largest outdoor summer jazz festival). The vibes are always laidback and the music celebrates jazz while also tapping into other genres, with performances from Ezra Collective, De La Soul and DJ Pee.Wee aka Anderson Paak sure to draw crowds.
When 20-23 August
Where Dorset, England
What To Expect DJ Gilles Peterson presents the seventh edition of We Out Here, which brings together leading and emerging artists across soul, hip hop, house, jazz and everything in between. The weekend is set across seven acres of lakes, woodland and parkland in Wimborne St Giles, Dorset, with programming spanning music, wellness and more. You’ll find us in the crowds for Thundercat, Joy Crookes and Aja Monet, for sure.
When 21-30 August, 2026
Where London, England
What To Expect Every summer, All Points East takes over London’s Victoria Park for two weekends of live music and a host of free neighbourhood events in between. Who's on our list to see? Jorja Smith and Tems’ headline set on Friday 21, followed by Lorde the next day – not to mention Tyler, the Creator’s double feature on 28-29 August.
When 29 August
Where London, England
What To Expect This relatively new addition to London’s festival circuit has become a reliable grassroots celebration of the city's music scene, platforming up-and-comers alongside more familiar favourites, while fundraising for local causes. Taking over across a forested corner of Southwark Park, a series of intimate spaces (including an Irish bar by cult local pub Skehans) hosts acts including – this year – Smerz, Daniel Avery and headliner Blood Orange.
When 29-30 August, 2026
Where Bristol Downs, England
What To Expect A city festival rooted in Bristol’s rich creative spirit, blending international acts with the best of the local scene. It’s more than just a music event, it’s a platform for positive change: supporting local businesses, uplifting the city’s creative industries and acting on the climate crisis. This year’s lineup includes Tems, Self Esteem and Little Simz.
When 3-6 September, 2026
Where Dorset, England
What To Expect Turning a bucolic corner of Dorset countryside into a thrilling showcase for alternative music each September, End of the Road celebrates its 20th birthday this year. Coinciding with the end of the UK festival season, it’s a charming multi-generational celebration that features A-list indie lineups (this year including Pulp, CMAT and Mac DeMarco), surprise sets at secret piano stages, late night raves in the woods and chance encounters with peacocks.
When 7 November
Where Bristol, England
What To Expect Since 2012, this big-hitting all-dayer has sent music lovers crisscrossing between various Bristol venues, spanning pubs, clubs and concert halls, to catch a consistently progressive roster of artists. While this year's lineup is yet to drop, curation skews towards experimental and alternative artists from around the world, with past headliners including Fever Ray, Skepta, Kano and Mogwai.
When 27 April-3 May, 2026
Where Tankwa Karoo, South Africa
What To Expect A community-driven festival set in South Africa’s remote Tankwa Karoo desert. Inspired by the original Burning Man, a temporary city rises from the dust each year, filled with art installations, music and radical self-expression. With no money exchanged on-site and a strong focus on sustainability and creativity, it’s a truly unique, collaborative celebration where everyone is encouraged to participate.
When 25-27 June, 2026
Where Essaouira, Morocco
What To Expect This world music festival celebrates the rich heritage of Gnaoua – which blends sub-Saharan African, Berber and Sufi influences – alongside jazz, blues and many more global sounds. Since 1998, it has brought together artists from around the world to collaborate with Morocco’s legendary Gnaoua masters, creating a powerful space where cultures connect and exchange through music.
When 2-11 July, 2026
Where Casablanca, Morocco
What To Expect A vibrant jazz and world music festival blending local Moroccan artists with international stars, based in Casablanca's Anfa Park. For its 19th edition, the festival will span 10 days and welcome the likes of Thee Sacred Souls, Hiromi and Theo Croker.
When 19-22 November, 2026
Where Kampala, Uganda
What To Expect One of Africa’s most exciting record labels, the Kampala-based collective Nyege Nyege Tapes hosts this annual weekender in Jinja, Uganda, centred around African underground music. With last year marking its 10th birthday, the event serves up a stunning showcase of East African artists, reflective of the label's roster, plus a few travelling from further afield – expect to dance to everything from Afrobeats and amapiano through to EDM and electro across a stunning subtropical site on the banks of the river Nile.
When 25 June-5 July, 2026
Where Montreal, Quebec, Canada
What To Expect The largest jazz festival in the world, featuring more than 3,000 artists from around the globe. It offers a blend of genres, including jazz and blues, along with free outdoor performances and a celebratory atmosphere. This summer, Willow, Saint Levant and Kokoroko are among the highlights.
When 9-11 July, 2026
Where Prince Edward Island, Canada
What To Expect Canada’s largest country music festival, set against the stunning Cavendish Beach, offers an unforgettable experience with both incredible performances and scenic surroundings. This year, Tucket Wetmore, Hardy and Cody Johnson will headline, promising a weekend filled with music with beachside views amid the beauty of Prince Edward Island.
When 24-26 July, 2026
Where Newport, Rhode Island, USA
What To Expect A widely celebrated festival featuring traditional folk, Americana and bluegrass music. Known for its intimate waterside setting, this festival has a rich history dating back to 1959. Tickets sell out fast, but join the waitlist for late releases now.
When 7-9 August, 2026
Where San Francisco, California, USA
What To Expect Set in Golden Gate Park, Outside Lands has been fusing top-tier music with incredible food, art and wine since 2008. Advertised as a festival for all ages, as well as being tobacco-free, this is a great one for families and friends alike. This year, the lineup includes Charli xcx, Pink Pantheress and Baby Keem.
When 1-2 May, 2026
Where São Paulo, Brazil
What To Expect An underground electronic music festival in the heart of São Paulo. Time Warp is renowned for bringing the best techno and house DJs to the city’s urban landscape. The festival is famous for its high-energy vibe and immersive experiences that transport you into another world – perfect for those who prefer their raving on the more intense side.
When 22-23 May, 2026
Where Bogotá, Colombia
What To Expect A meeting point for ravers from all around the world, Baum welcomes some of the biggest names in dance music across the continent and beyond. This year you’ll find names such as Nick León, ISAbella, Disclosure and Avalon Emerson behind the decks.
When 3-5 July, 2026
Where Yogyakarta, Indonesia
What To Expect An annual jazz festival set against the backdrop of Yogyakarta’s historic Prambanan Temple, this welcomes some of the biggest names in jazz across Indonesia as well as international stars.
When 17-20 July, 2026
Where Fukushima, Japan
What To Expect A hidden gem for underground electronic music, set in the remote Nowhere Camp in the mountains of Fukushima Prefecture and offering a mix of techno, house and ambient sounds. One for discovering the best up-and-coming talent.
When 24-26 July, 2026
Where Niigata, Japan
What To Expect A paradise for nature lovers, Fuji Rock takes place in the mountain setting of Naeba Ski Resort. With more than 200 acts each year, this festival combines breathtaking scenery with an unmissable music experience. This year’s headliners include Khruangbin and Massive Attack, promising an alfresco weekend of music among the mountains.
When 3-7 Dec, 2026
Where Pattaya, Thailand
What To Expect One of Asia’s most beloved festivals, Wonderfruit is a four-day, 24-hour, cashless festival blending music, art, sustainability and culture. Expect immersive art installations, farm-to-table dining, wellness workshops, and diverse music stages in a tropical setting designed to foster community and eco-conscious living.
When 6-9 November, 2026
Where Mount Adrah, Australia
What To Expect Hosted on a private property in the wide, open surrounds of Mount Adrah in Wiradjuri Country, Soma is a three-day gathering centred on mindfulness, community and respect for the land. Sustainability is a core focus, with an emphasis on moving thoughtfully and sharing space with care.
When 20-22 November, 2026
Where Tocumwal, Australia
What To Expect Held on the banks of Dhungala (Murray River), Strawberry Fields is a three-day festival just outside Melbourne that brings together electronic music, art and community. What began as a small bush gathering has grown into an immersive experience with global and local creatives and a strong respect for Yorta Yorta Country. Expect vibrant dancefloors, riverside swims, creative programming and a relaxed, nature-led atmosphere. (Note: If your birthday falls between 20–22 November, you can also claim a free ticket via Humanitix, subject to availability.)
When 11-13 December, 2026
Where Meredith, Australia
What To Expect A three-day end of year gathering known for its independent spirit and anything-goes energy. Centred around a purpose-built outdoor stage, it brings together a genre-spanning lineup with a crowd that’s as much a part of the experience as the music itself. Beyond the bands and late-night sets, the weekend is filled with Meredith’s own offbeat rituals, from the sportsfield and morning Tai Chi to ‘Clean Up’ songs (to encourage people to clean up) and the Ecoplex Cinema. With no commercial sponsors or signage, no set camping rules and no curfew, it offers a rare sense of freedom and collective mischief.
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