As the temperature rises and the days grow longer, music festivals offer excitement and unity, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate their shared love of music and art. Whether dancing under the desert sun at Coachella or reveling in the eclectic sounds of Lollapalooza, these festivals serve as vibrant hubs of creativity. For Zillennials, the festival season shapes unforgettable memories for attendees and artists alike. With each festival offering its unique blend of sights, sounds, and experiences, the spring and summer months are set to be a whirlwind of musical exploration and discovery.
For those seeking a more niche experience, festival season offers a new range of eclectic sounds, such as rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. This time of year strongly emphasizes community and sustainability. Beyond the music, this time of year offers an array of experiences, from immersive activations to shedding light on local businesses, making it a truly holistic celebration of art and culture.
ESSENCE Festival July 4-7
In celebration of its 30th Birthday, ESSENCE Festival 2024 will make Dirty 30 in New Orleans bigger and better, from the daytime activations in the convention center to the beloved nighttime concerts filled with artists across all generations. In honor of 30 years, Girls United is coming to represent the new audience of ESSENCE for the next 30 years with the second annual Creator’s House and Kickback activation for Zillennials to experience a futuristic hub made for us by us.
Coachella: April 12-14
Coachella showcases emerging artists alongside established acts, fostering a dynamic and eclectic experience for attendees. With its iconic desert backdrop and celebrity sightings, Coachella has become a global cultural phenomenon and a must-attend event for music lovers. With headliners Doja Cat, Lana Del Ray, and Tyler The Creator, festivalgoers are in for a diverse treat regarding this year’s musical experience.
Governors Ball: June 7-9
The Governor’s Ball Festival is a renowned annual music festival in New York City. It features a diverse lineup of popular artists spanning various genres, including rock, hip-hop, electronic, and indie music. The festival boasts multiple stages where stans can see their favorite artists, from SZA to Victoria Monet.
Broccoli City Festival July 27-28
Broccoli City Festival is a hub for those in the DMV to come together to enjoy the trendy styles from artists in hip-hop, R&B, and electronic. The festival strongly emphasizes community awareness, new initiatives, and the creation of a space for new artists to be exposed. Creatives like Gunna, Megan Thee Stallion and Skilla Baby will all hit the stage in July for an unforgettable experience.
Lollapalooza: August 1-4
Lollapalooza Chicago is an iconic music festival held annually in Grant Park. It spans four days and features diverse artists so everyone can find new artists to add to their everyday rotation. With renowned performances from Future & Metro Boomin, Sexyy Red, and Flo, there will be memorable moments for the audience this year. Beyond music, the festival includes various art installations, food vendors, and interactive experiences, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
Afro Nation: August 17-18
Afro Nation Festival is a vibrant celebration of African music, culture, and lifestyle. Held in various Detroit, Michigan, it brings together renowned artists and emerging talents across the diaspora. The festival showcases diverse genres such as Afrobeats, dancehall and hip-hop, creating an electrifying atmosphere for attendees.
About the Author: Kenyatta Victoria is the lead writer for Essence GU, working on all things pop culture, politics, entertainment and business. Throughout her time at GU, she’s garnered devoted readers and specializes in the Zillennial point of view.