(July 2nd-4th)
Some Performers Include: Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys, Gladys Knight, Earth Wind & Fire, Jill Scott, De La Soul
Located at: New Orleans Superdome, New Orleans, LA
More than Music: A ton of seminars including many well-known speakers- Bill Cosby, Steve Harvey, and Jada Pinkett Smith. There's also a lounge sponsored by Coca Cola and McDonalds featuring smaller groups and artists, and an art expo featuring arts and crafts.
Why We Recommend it: It's New Orleans...and admit it, it's on your list of "must see" places in your lifetime. Definitely a good summer trip to take with your friends or even a great anniversary gift for your parents. This is another one of those festivals where there's something for every generation.
(July 3rd-4th)
Some Performers Include: Sam Bush, My Dear Disco, Dangermuffin, DJ Williams Projekt, Blue Mule
Located at: Floyd, VA
More than Music: WINE AND BEER! There's also unique handmade items for sale, jewelry, pottery, etc. And specialty food vendors, too.
Why We Recommend it: Sure, you can drink at the other festivals, but this one legitimately encourages it. There are plenty of wine trails in this area and beer festivals, too. But why not kill two birds with one stone and get some music in the mix?
(July 5th-10th)
Some Performers Include: De La Soul, Black Moon, Fashawn, Money Making Jam Boys,
Located at: Brooklyn, NY
More than Music: Local talent stage, classic hip-hop film night, performances by DJs from all over the US, family day, and an after party.
Why We Recommend it: Brooklyn is just a bus ride away...followed by a few subway stops. But, it's the largest festival in the five boroughs of NYC and a great chance to check out new music if hip-hop is one of your favorite genres.
(July 8th-11th)
Some Performers Include: Widespread Panic, Umphrey's McGee, Dark Star Orchestra, George Clinton & the Parliament Funkadelic, Keller Williams, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals
Located at: Marvin's Mountaintop, Masontown, WV
More than Music: There is a work exchange program where you can teach people new skills- if you're good at something and are willing to teach other people how to do it, you could get in for free. Send your skills to those running the festival and see what happens. There are also a lot of craft vendors and they're still looking for more to fill the spots. Kids are welcomed at the festival as well, and there are family/quiet camp sites available.
Why We Recommend it: If you volunteer and teach people new things, karma will be built (and a great resume booster). It sounds like a pretty great festival to show off your talents or creative skills. Not to mention, the website has a pretty extensive list on what to take if you plan on camping- great to checkout whether you're going to this fest or just want to go camping somewhere in general.
(July 9th-11th)
Some Performers Include: HipE, Push, Wandering Root, Redwud, The Stone Lonesome, Thirst Quenchers
Located at: Elicker's Grove, Spring Grove, PA
More than Music: There will be speakers for law enforcement against prohibition and advocacy, along with others, comedians, DJs til 6am, and carpool centers. There are also a lot of vendors including local tattoo shops and glass creations.
Why We Recommend it: It's in the Harrisburg area, so not a far drive for a day or two. Lot's of local artists will be featured including a few from Philadelphia. And despite the name of the festival, it's apparently drug free.
(July 12th-18th)
Some Performers Include: Bret Michaels, Buck Cherry, Drowning Pool, Adam Lambert, Orianthi, Sammy Hagar, Alice Cooper, Tesla, Ludacris
Located at: Adado Riverfront Park, Lansing, MI
More than Music: Miller Lite party deck, a market, sand bar, putting and golf contests, and children's activities.
Why We Recommend it: A rare occurrence-the festival everyone can enjoy (even your parents). If you want to take a road trip, obviously a music festival is the way to go. Convincing any single one of your friends to go shouldn't be hard. Did you see the lineup?!
(July 16th-18th)
Some Performers Include: Big Head Todd & the Monsters, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, Harper Blynn, Roseanne Cash, Cowboy Junkies, The Holmes Brothers, These United States
Located at: Wiggens Park at the Camden Waterfront
More than Music: Lots of eco-friendly and green sponsors, and there's a kid's tent with a garden (perfect for photo ops).
Why We Recommend it: It's in your backyard, Philly! You're also allowed to bring your own food...not many festivals allow that. Pack a cooler and hop on Septa. Easy.
