5. Lollapalooza May Be One of the Oldest, But the Chicago Festival Still Hasn’t Lost a Step
Once a traveling fest, the celebrated Lollapalooza Music Festival has now found a home in Chicago. Created by the Jane’s Addiction front man Perry Farrell, the festival features the biggest names in alternative, heavy-metal, hip-hop and punk rock music. Some of the most revered acts to play the event include Jane’s Addiction, Eminem, Queens of the Stone Age, Lady Gaga, Muse, Pete Yorn, Ben Folds, The Black Keys, Weezer, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Beastie Boys. All the big players want to do Lollapalooza, so each year’s lineup will no doubt be a thrill.
6. South by Southwest, the Music Festival For People Who Are Into Way More Than Music
Austin is known for its vibrant music scene, so it’s only natural that its South by Southwest would be considered one of the best music festivals in North America. The fest is held over a week and performances are scattered throughout the city, making for a huge interactive event. More than just music, the event also hosts conferences, trade shows, environmental initiatives, films and more. An amazing array of performers has graced the festival including Bruce Springsteen, The Flaming Lips, Katy Perry and John Mayer. Hundreds of nationally and regionally acclaimed performers are featured during SXSW.
