Nothing is quite as satisfying as setting the clocks forward in mid-March. Not only have you given yourself the gift of time – to enjoy the longer, brighter days – but you’ve symbolically turned the page to festival season. With all due respect to Santa Claus, this is the most wonderful time of the year. It’s when 20- and 30-somethings crawl out of winter hibernation, rub their bleary eyes, and see colorful visions of crowded stadiums, and hear a pulsing beat echoing from somewhere faraway. Maybe they even dig out their most ridiculous-looking tinted sunglasses in preparation for what’s to come.
Photo: Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock
21 Music Festivals That Need to Be on Your Radar for 2023
2023 music festival season is about to be in full swing, and the coming months are bursting with so many events that even the most frenzied festival-goers won’t know where to start. From party scene mainstays like California and New York to sleepier destinations like Montana, these are the 2023 music festivals that should be on your list.
We hope you love the spaces we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
Coachella – Indio, California
When: April 14-16 and April 21-23
Chances are, if you’ve only heard of one music festival in the US, it’s Coachella. The annual arts and music festival, held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, is one of the biggest festivals in the country, headlined by top pop, rock, hip hop, and electronic artists. This year Coachella’s stages will be graced by the likes of Bad Bunny, Gorillaz, Frank Ocean, Calvin Harris, and others. While not quite as artsy as Burning Man, the festival is also known for its art installations and sculptures.
Where to stay:
Ace Hotel and Swim Club
Photo: Booking.com
Just 30 mins outside Indio, the Ace Hotel and Swim Club is the best way to keep partying even when you decide to call it a day at the festival. This boutique hotel keeps the Coachella vibe alive, with live music, late-night shows, and DJ sets for guests during festival season. There are even record players in the rooms to keep you in a musical mood, and outdoor pools to cool off after a long day of dancing.
The Compound
Photo: Airbnb
This Airbnb, located right in Indio, is perfect for large groups attending Coachella. It can accommodate over 16 guests with a huge living room and kitchen, and covered patio with outdoor dining tables. There’s also a pool table, BBQ, pool, spa, ping pong table, and corn hole, and since the Compound is right across the street from the Empire Polo Fields, it couldn’t be more convenient for festival goers.
Desert Hearts Festival – Lake Perris, California
When: May 5-8
An electronic music festival on the shores of Lake Perris, Desert Hearts brings the community together on a single dance floor. This year’s edition will feature theme camps right off the dance floor, more shade throughout the grounds, and stage-side car camping on grass. As always, the beach will be a focal point, with the addition of interactive activities and water sports.
Where to stay:
The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa
Photo: Booking.com
Just 12 miles from Lake Perris, this is the luxurious accommodation you deserve after a hard day’s work partying in the desert. The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa is a castle-like historic hotel with a spa, sprawling pool deck, upscale restaurant, and Instagram-worthy architecture that’ll complement your festival photo reel.
Sundream Baja – San José del Cabo, Mexico
When: May 5-8 and May 11-14
Debuted in Tulum in 2022, Sundream Baja will take over El Ganzo Sculpture Gardens in San José del Cabo in 2023. Attendees can expect four days of parties, wellness activities, art installations, intimate DJ sessions, and live performances from some artists like Michael Bibi, Litos, and Bedouin.
Where to stay:
Casa Shona
Photo: Airbnb
Casa Shona is the perfect escape once your festival day is over. Located in a quiet residential area just a block from the beach, you can get some much-needed peace and quiet after a long day of partying. Accommodating up to eight people, the house has a huge private patio and pool area, and is within easy walking distance of town.
Seismic Dance Event – Austin, Texas
When: May 19-20
This isn’t a misnomer. The Seismic Dance Event is the South’s premiere boutique house and techno music festival, and one of the biggest names in the global underground dance movement. Some names to watch out for this year include Coco and Breezy, DJ Hanzel, John Summit, and TESTPILOT.
Where to stay:
The LINE
Photo: Booking.com
While Austin’s airport hotels are closer to the festival, we recommend staying in Downtown Austin to be closer to all the city has to offer, and get the most out of your trip. The LINE, once home to a jazz club, is part of Austin’s music and cultural history, making it the perfect place to crash after a festival. The hotel is conveniently located for exploring downtown, and rooms have stunning views of downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake.
Hangout Music Festival – Gulf Shores, Alabama
When:May 19-21
Hangout Music Festival is the ultimate kickoff to summer, a festival defined by dancing in the sand with your best friends while listening to your favorite music. All taking place on one of the South’s most beautiful beaches, the festival hosts pop, dance, and rock artists like Calvin Harris, SZA, Paramore, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Where to stay:
East Beach Condo
Photo: Airbnb
Just two blocks from Hangout, the East Beach Condo is both convenient and comfortable for a group festival stay. Accommodating six people, the condo is right across the street from the beach, and just blocks from a waterpark, zoo, zip lines, golf course, an plenty of bars and restaurants.
Lightning in a Bottle – Buena Vista Lake, California
When: May 24-29
Taking place Memorial Day Weekend at Buena Vista Lake in Southern California, Lightning in a Bottle hosts an array of top-tier music, creative art and immersive environments, and educational classes and workshops. The lineup this year includes ZHU, Tale of Us, Diplo, REZZ, The Glitch Mob, and more.
Where to stay:
Camping
Photo: Camping/Lighting in a Bottle
The best way to get the true LIB experience is by camping. There are a few options available, from the General Campground (included in ticket price) to the premium Atlaswyld Campground, a boutique campsite that offers a slightly elevated experience. There are also RV campgrounds for those who require it.
Paradise Cove
Photo: Airbnb
For those who’d rather not rough it, this Airbnb will make you feel like you’re on a tropical getaway. The pool has two waterfalls and a private grotto dotted with palm trees, and the house itself can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests.
Primavera Sound –Barcelona and Madrid
When: Barcelona, June 1-3, and Madrid June 8-10
After 20 editions of Primavera Sound, this festival is still going strong. The Parc del Fòrum in Barcelona, from the 1st to the 3rd of June, and the Ciudad del Rock in Madrid’s Arganda del Rey, from the 8th to the 10th of June, will host the main days of Primavera Sound 2023. The lineup this year features Kendrick Lamar, Blur, Halsey, Calvin Harris, and other top-tier artists.
Where to stay:
The Princess
Photo: Booking.com
The Princess Hotel overlooks the festival grounds, making it one of the most convenient lodging options for Primavera. A stylish hotel where you might even run into some of the festival’s artists, it’s avant-garde design is reason enough to stay here, leaving an important imprint on the city’s bohemian architectural flair.
Madrid Centro Apartment
Photo: Airbnb
Since you’re already making the trip to Madrid, you might as well live it up. This Airbnb in Madrid Centro is the definition of luxury, accommodating up to six guests in a bright, spacious apartment. It’s right in front of Plaza Mayor and Mercado San Miguel, and just a few blocks away from Madrid’s most desirable attractions, like the Gran Via, Teatro de la Opera, Calle Arenal, and the Huertas neighborhood.
Heatwave Music Festival – Chicago, Illinois
When: June 10-11
Produced by Auris Presents, Chicago’s leading force in live music events, the Heatwave Music Festival takes over the entire city with a fully immersive, pop-art inspired event. The festival features headlining dance music acts like Tiesto, Slander, and more.
Where to stay:
1904 Loft
Photo: Airbnb
For a festival that celebrates Chicago music, you might as well stay in an apartment that encapsulates Chicago history. This modern loft duplex is located in a former picture frame factory from 1904, complete with exposed brick, high timber ceilings, and hardwood floors. Don’t worry, though – it’s been fully renovated with modern amenities like spray showers, a huge Jacuzzi, pool table, and home theater.
Splash House – June – Palm Springs, California
When: June 9-11, August 11-13, and August 18-20
For the last 10 years, Splash House has been redefining the summer festival scene, offering a boutique festival experience in the heart of Palm Springs, complete with pool parties. To celebrate the 10-year milestone, Splash House 2023 is returning this summer for its second triple-weekender season on June 9-11, August 11-13, and August 18-20.
Where to stay:
Margaritaville
Photo: Booking.com
Splash House simplifies the “where to stay” question by offering several packages with partner hotels. These include a three-night stay for your group at a choice of participating properties, passes to the festival, and shuttle transportation from the hotel to the venue. One of these properties is Margaritaville, Jimmy Buffet’s classic tropical-inspired hotel. Also serving as a host venue, Margaritaville is one of the most convenient places to stay for Splash House.
Saguaro
Photo: Booking.com
A staple of Splash House for the last decade, Saguaro is defined by its vibrant colors and Mexican-inspired decor. You’ll be able to take advantage of indoor and outdoor sitting areas, bright balconies, a huge pool, and two restaurants. Saguaro is also a host venue for the festival.
Northern Nights Music Festival – Piercy, California
When: July 14-16
The Northern Nights Music Festival takes place at Cook’s Valley Campground in Piercy, CA, right on the Humboldt/Mendocino border. The festival is known for its eclectic mix of cutting edge music, cannabis programming, and serene natural landscapes. To get the real Northern Nights experience, reserve a campground and sleep under the stars.
Where to stay:
Cozy Cabin
Photo: Airbnb
It might not be the party pad aesthetic you typically associate with music festivals, but this Airbnb cabin on the Benbow Golf Course is actually the perfect spot for your festival group. There’s nowhere better than a quiet log cabin to retreat to after a long day of drinking, where you can bond with friends and gear up for the next day’s festivities. It’s also convenient for exploring the redwoods, located right near the Avenue of the Giants.
Under The Big Sky – Whitefish, Montana
When: July 14-16
That’s right, Montana is making a splash on the festival scene. The fourth edition of Under The Big Sky Music, Rodeo, and Roundup Festival is taking place at Big Mountain Ranch in Whitefish, Montant on July 14th – 16th, 2023. It will feature a combo of leading names in alternative and outlaw country, folk, bluegrass, Americana, and rock music. And if that isn’t enough entertainment for you, there’s also a rodeo on Friday, July 14th.
Where to stay:
Firebrand Hotel
Photo: Booking.com
In addition to putting you within easy reach of the festival, Firebrand Hotel gives you access to over 600 miles of trails through Glacier National Park, as well as the picturesque Whitefish Lake. When you’re not reveling in bluegrass or watching a rodeo, you can take a nighttime cruise on the lake, or rent a ski boat.
Huckleberry Hideaway
Photo: Airbnb
If you’re taking a trip to Montana, you might as well do it right and stay in a log cabin. The Huckleberry Hideaway gives you that Wild West aesthetic while also accommodating large groups of up to 10 people. This cabin on Whitefish Lake has a patio fire pit, and four bedrooms, and views of the lake, Big Mountain, and Glacier National Park.
HARD Summer Music Festival – Los Angeles, California
When: August 5-6
For the first time in 10 years, HARD Summer Music Festival is returning to Los Angeles. Taking place in Downtown LA from August 5-6, the 15th edition of HARD Summer will be spread across various stages on the campuses of the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Exposition Park, and BMO Stadium.
Where to stay:
Biltmore Los Angeles
Photo: Booking.com
What’s splurging on an LA music festival without also indulging in sumptuous accommodations? The Biltmore Hotel – an LA staple for 100 years – is a beaux-arts hotel that’s been dazzling guests since the days of Old Hollywood. Once the site of a prohibition nightclub, and having hosted several Academy Awards ceremonies, this distinguished property will look just as flashy and tantalizing on Instagram as the festival itself.
Elements Music and Arts Festival – Long Pond, Pennsylvania
When: August 10-14
Elements Music and Arts Festival is the Northeast’s premier boutique festival experience, featuring artists like Chris Lake, John Summit, Skrillex, Elderbrook, and LSDream. It’s the ultimate carefree weekend event where music, community, art, camping, and adventure converge in to take over the small, unassuming community of Long Pond, Pennsylvania.
Where to stay:
Rustic Farmhouse
Photo: Airbnb
Staying in this farmhouse, you might even forget to attend the festival entirely. Accommodating 12 people, this 13-acre farm is the perfect house party location, completely private and surrounded by nature in the Poconos Mountains. It’s a little further from the festival than staying in Long Pond proper, but the sprawling house adds another epic layer to your trip, and is truly one of the best places to stay in the area for large groups.
DAY.MVS XL – San Diego, California
When: August
DAY.MVS XL at San Diego’s Waterfront Park is a two-day city-center festival showcasing electronic music’s most iconic names. Acts include Duke Dumont, Eric Prydz, Vintage Culture, Nastia, and more.
Where to stay:
Downtown Rooftop Home
Photo: Airbnb
Located just a few blocks from Waterfront Park, this five-bedroom home is the perfect base camp for festival goers. The property has multiple patios, and a huge rooftop deck with sweeping views of downtown San Diego and the water. And since it’s four stories, even large groups will have plenty of space, and never feel like they’re living on top of each other.
ARC Music Festival – Chicago, Illinois
When: September 1-3
ARC features an impressive lineup of house and techno artists for a celebration of Chicago’s most influential DJs. Its focus is on assembling DJS who created and molded the city’s house music sound, and immersing concertgoers in creative stage environments that look more like art installations than traditional stages.
Where to stay:
Nobu Hotel Chicago
Photo: Booking.com
Just under a mile from Union Park, where the festival is being held, Nobu Hotel isn’t just ideally located for the event, but also for exploring the best of Chicago. You’ll be right in the heart of Fulton Market in the West Loop neighborhood, close to the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Shedd Aquarium. Even if you don’t venture beyond the hotel, you’ll be able to enjoy the property’s upscale amenities like a tranquility pool, and the boujee Rooftop restaurant with a terrace and indoor lounge.
The Publishing House
Photo: Booking.com
For a more understated yet elegant boutique experience, The Publishing House is your spot. An urban loft in the heart of the West Loop neighborhood, this hotel former publishing house-turned hotel is designed to fully immerse guests in Chicago history. It’s perfect for smaller groups who want a more cultural experience when they’re not dancing the night away.
CRSSD Festival – San Diego, California
When: October
CRSSD doesn’t adhere to one specific genre. Since its inception in 2013, it’s been bringing together the best in techno, nu-wave, house, indie, and beyond. From Sven Väth and Nicolas Jaar to The Flaming Lips and Flume, CRSSD is welcoming back dance music veterans this year in addition to new up-and-coming talent.
Where to stay:
Hotel Republic San Diego
Photo: Booking.com
Located right downtown but also close to Waterfront Park, Hotel Republic is the best of all worlds. A contemporary hotel with a Victorian aesthetic, this place is perfect for exploring the Gaslamp Quarter’s bar scene, and the tempting restaurants of Little italy. You can also enjoy rooftop drinks at the hotel’s Terrace Kitchen and Bar.
Dirtybird Campout – Modesto, California
When: October
Dirtybird Campout was conceived eight years ago by house producer Claude VonStroke, who wanted to create an independent music festival that could foster a special community of dance music fans. The festival emerged as an inclusive experience for fans of all backgrounds, and now counts itself as one of the best boutique music festivals in the world.
Where to stay:
Luxury Camping
Photo: Camping/Dirtybird Campout
It’s called Dirtybird “Campout” for a reason. It might not be for everyone, but this is your first option for overnighting at Dirtybird. The luxury boutique campground is located next to the festival grounds, with spacious tents and private showers and bathrooms. Tents come with comfortable beds and basic amenities. Don’t expect too many frills, but it’s certainly more comfy than sleeping on the ground.
The Stilt House
Photo: Airbnb
Might as well keep the weird vibes going after the festival fervor dies down by crashing in a treehouse. That’s right, a treehouse. Built with redwood construction in the 1960s, the aptly-named Stilt House on stilts has 360-degree views of Dry Creek, an open floor plan with modern amenities, a huge back deck, and a living room big enough for any large group. If you’re looking for luxury with a hearty helping of rustic nature, this is the place for you.
Iceland Airwaves – Reykjavík, Iceland
When: November 2-4
Can you think of a more epic environment for a music festival than the dramatic mountains and fjords of Iceland? Taking place from November 2-4 in Reykjavik, Iceland Airwaves brings together the best in local Icelandic talent alongside emerging global acts. This year’s festival features electronic artists like Clubdub, Daniil, FETISH, Fran Vasilić, Gallus, and Kristin Sesselja.
Where to stay:
The Reykjavik EDITION
Photo: Booking.com
You’re in Iceland. No matter where you stay, you’re probably going to feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The Reykjavik Edition, however, is the epitome of Nordic luxury, set against the backdrop of mountain views right on the Old Harbor. The hotel is also next to the Harpa, a concert hall, and just a few blocks away from Laugavegur, downtown Reykjavik’s main shopping street. The hotel also has a rooftop restaurant and bar for some of the best views of the city.
Art Collector’s Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Located right in downtown Reykjavik, just steps from all the bars and restaurants, this bohemian apartment also has a balcony with a direct view of Reykjavik Cathedral and the Parliament building. With art covering every wall, it feels more like a museum than an apartment, and its four bedrooms offer enough space to accommodate large parties.
Time Warp – New York, NY
When: November
The New York Times refers to Time Warp as a “pilgrimage event on the global techno calendar,” and indeed, the festival is two straight days of audiovisual immersion headlined by some of house and techno’s top talent. This year’s lineup hasn’t yet been released, but last year featured Mind Against, Artbat, Adam Beyer, Fadeface, and more.
Where to stay:
The Taproom
Photo: Airbnb
This Airbnb is right in the heart of Bushwick, one of Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhoods. Located inside a 19th century townhouse that used to house local brewers, this apartment is defined by its beer-themed artwork and velvet wallpaper. The Taproom is conveniently located just a few blocks from the JMZ Flushing subway stop, and walking distance to the neighborhood’s many bars and restaurants.
Duplex Loft
Photo: Airbnb
Perfect for smaller groups, this duplex Airbnb houses parties of up to four people. A chic, modern accommodation just a few steps from Domino Park, and within walking distance to Manhattan, this modern duplex is as comfortable as it gets for a festival crash pad.
Your Paradise – Mamanuca Islands, Fiji
When: December 9-15
Your Paradise has always been about more than just music. Held in Fiji, famous for its white sandy beaches, picturesque sunsets, and rich indigenous culture, Your Paradise aims to instill the importance of cultural diversity. As if a trip to Fiji wasn’t enough reason to attend, Your Paradise also features a stacked lineup of artists, which last year included Ben Bohmer, Choomba, Doorly, and Heidi.
Where to stay:
Plantation Island Resort
Photo: Booking.com
The festival’s host venue, there’ nowhere better to stay for Your Paradise than the Plantation Island Resort. In addition to a private beach and pool, the resort gives guests access to plenty of exhilarating activities (if the festival wasn’t exhilarating enough, like surfing, scuba diving, renting bikes, and a waterpark. Also be sure to check out Cloud 9, the resort’s floating bar and pizzeria.
Holy Ship! Wrecked – Riviera Maya, Mexico
When: December
Holy Ship! Is one of the coolest parties on the planet, an annual coming together of the experimental dance music scene’s most dedicated communitie. The festival brings the vibes of an oceanic festival excursion to land, making for a truly special festival experience. Last year’s lineup included Jaiwolf, Chris Lake, Slander, and Zeds Dead.
Where to stay:
Hard Rock Hotel
Photo: Booking.com
There’s really no better place to stay for this festival than the Hard Rock Hotel. The all-inclusive resort is completely taken over by Holy Ship!, so festival vibes will be literally everywhere you turn. Staying at the resort, you can look forward to six stages, a waterpark, zipline, spa, and multiple pools. Many rooms and suites also come with balconies, huge living and dining areas, and hammocks perfect for maximum chilling.