If you've never experienced a summer music festival, don't tell me it's because you're afraid of hippies. Along with the music that makes tree huggers flock, summer festivals now feature hip-hop, comedy shows and plenty of those funky modern indie bands we hear played incessantly on WGSU. So spend a weekend camping while you soak up some great music, sunshine and maybe even a bit o' peace n' love. I guarantee it will prove to be a positive, life-changing experience.
Bonnaroo
June 12-15
Manchester, Tenn.
$210 - $245; includes camping
If you haven't at least heard of Bonnaroo, pardon me for asking you to crawl out from under your rock. Pearl Jam and Metallica headline this year. I dare you to go check out the rest of the lineup. You're bound to find a bazillion other bands you rightfully worship.
Gathering of the Vibes
August 1-3
Bridgeport, Conn.
Advance - $165; includes camping
Established in 1996 as a memorial party for loyal Deadheads still mourning the loss of Jerry, Vibes continues to be one of the top festivals in the northeast. With a heady lineup featuring Phil Lesh & Friends, Derek Trucks & Susan Tedeschi and Assembly of Dust (a personal favorite), Vibes has moved back to their own stomping grounds… right on the beach!
All Good
July 11-13
Masontown, W.V.
$129; includes camping
All Good is just that. A favorite of festival goers everywhere, All Good is known for great camping and a powerhouse of jam bands. Let's All Gooo…
Rothbury
July 3-6
Rothbury, Mich.
$245; includes camping
Expensive? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. Headlining: Dave Matthews Band, Widespread Panic, Snoop Dogg, John Mayer, 311, Primus, Modest Mouse, The Black Keys… need I go on? Not to mention, the site is breathtakingly beautiful - and on Lake Michigan. You will undoubtedly find me here this Independence Day.
Mountain Jam
May 30-June 1
Hunter Mountain, N.Y.
$155; includes camping
The big classics and so close to home, it's almost too good to be true! Featuring Gov't Mule, Bob Weir and Ratdog, Michael Franti & Spearhead and Umphrey's McGee! Only downside: having to carry in all your gear. Bring a handcart.
All Points West
August 8-10
Liberty State Park, N.J.
$258/three-day pass, $89/one-day pass; *No Camping*
With Radiohead and Jack Johnson headlining, this isn't only local, it's a must-see! Other bands include the Roots, Kings of Leon and Animal Collective. A perfect fit for all the downstaters.
Virgin Mobile Festival
August 9-10
Baltimore, Md.
Ticket info coming soon
The newly-reunited Stone Temple Pilots headline this year, along with Kanye West and the Foo Fighters. Keep your ears open for the rest of the lineup for this perpetually-growing festival.
Lollapalooza
August 1-3
Chicago, Ill.
Ticket info coming soon
Outside sources have confirmed festival staples Radiohead and Nine Inch Nails, and rumored headliners include Rage Against the Machine and Wilco. The official lineup announcement will be made April 7.