With the 2016 festival season quickly approaching, plans are starting to take form.
Ravers are brimming with excitement as they prioritize which musical journeys they long to venture on. From the West Coast to the Eastern Seaboard and everything in between, there’s a celebration of rhythm waiting for you to embrace the sound.
Whether you’re a new comer or a veteran, these experiences have the ability to excite, rejuvenate and even heal.
We know it’s no easy task to select the sensation overload that best suits you this year, but we have come up with some spectacular options for you to choose from.
Our 2016 EDM festival guide will help you with everything you need to make the best choice for your very own electronic dance music festival experience!
These multi-day events are the best dance music gatherings that the U.S. scene has to offer. While not all of these festivals are strictly EDM, all of them feature an adequate amount of dance music to satisfy any EDM enthusiast.
Check out our complete 2016 EDM festival guide below:
Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival
The first-year Florida festival is already poised to be one of the best music festivals in the country, barring some unforeseen catastrophe. The folks behind Bonnaroo will set up shop in the Sunshine State for an event that might exceed the scale of its legendary Tennessee counterpart.
When: Friday, March 4 – Sunday, March 6
Where: Okeechobee, Florida
Notable Performers: Skrillex, Bassnectar, Odesza, Big Gigantic, RL Grime, Bonobo, Gramatik, Shpongle
More Info: Official Website | Purchase Tickets | Facebook
Buku Music & Art Project
For one weekend The Bayou turns into an electronic Mardi Gras in the heart of New Orleans. This festival is overflowing with floor rattling artists ready to flood the Mississippi River with show stopping bass. The industrial setting of the Port of New Orleans combined with extensive art installations and an incredibly diverse lineup provides a modern music festival experience unlike many others.
When: Friday, March 11 – Saturday, March 12
Where: Port of New Orleans – New Orleans, Louisiana
Notable Performers: Above and Beyond, Pretty Lights, Yellow Claw, Nero, SNBRN, AlunaGeorge
More Info: Official Website | Purchase Tickets | Facebook | Twitter
CRSSD Festival
With a swanky location at the Waterfront Park in sunny San Diego and an enormous lineup dominated by seasoned house experts and underground grooves, this sunlit festival will appease even the most sophisticated EDM connoisseurs.
When: Saturday, March 5 – Sunday, March 6
Where: Waterfront Park – San Diego, California
Notable Performers: Odessa, Gryffin, Gorgon City, Loco Dice, Jamie Jones, Claude Vonstroke, Cassian, Tale of Us
More Info: Official Website | Purchase Tickets | Facebook | Twitter
Beyond Wonderland
Chase the beat down the rabbit hole where time stops and inhibitions disappear. Insomniac has recreated the infamous enchanted kingdom and your heads will roll in awe of its glory. Tick-tock, tick-tock: Don’t be late for a very important date at the San Manuel Amphitheater in Southern California.
When: Friday, March 18 – Saturday, March 19
Where: San Manuel Ampitheater – San Bernardino, California
Notable Performers: Alesso, Bro Safari, Carnage, Dada Life, Doctor P, Marshmello, Paul Van Dyk, Seven Lions
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
South by Southwest
This tremendous exhibition of artists gathers visionaries from all generations to collaborate and experience progressive and classic variations of sound. The latest innovations in technology, film, and music are all on display during this reputable conference that draws industry leaders from all over the world. Always pushing the envelope, there are sure to be some musical treats in store.
When: Tuesday, March 15 – Sunday, March 20
Where: Austin, Texas
Notable Performers: The Chainsmokers, Dodge & Fuski, Zeds Dead
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Miami Music Week
While this isn’t technically a festival, the celebrations are still up there with the best of them. Hotels are near capacity extending miles outside of the city for a week filled with hundreds of events including cruises, parties, and festivals. At no other time will you find nearly every record label in the world in the same city at the same time for nonstop music.
A time warp jam packed of roof top pool parties and all night dance-a-thons featuring soulful artists and heavy hitting DJs. Get lost in the Florida heat surrounded by some of the best musicians in the scene.
When: Tuesday, March 15 – Sunday, March 20
Where: Miami, Florida
Notable Performers: Steve Aoki, Oliver Heldens, Sasha, Cosmic Gate and many more artists to be Announced!
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Ultra Music Festival
This globe-trotting union of EDM enthusiasts travels the world, stirring up excitement wherever it goes. Thanks to the flagship event of Ultra Worldwide that started it all, there is no other production in the world quite like UMF. This remarkable production brings down the house with the World’s hottest electronic music performers.
When: Friday, March 18 – Sunday, March 20
Where: Bayfront Park – Miami, Florida
Notable Performers: Armin Van Buuren,Hardwell, Kygo, Art Department, Tiesto, Martin Garrix, Afrojack, Avicii, David Guetta, Dubfire, Eric Prydz, Kaskade, Knife Party, Loco Dice, Nero, DJ Snake, Zedd, AlunaGeorge, Carnage, DVBBS, The Chainsmokers, Icona Pop, Marshmello, Slander, Laidback Luke, Party Favor, Robin Schulz, W&W, Snails, SNBRN, TCHAMI, Yellow Claw, Vicetone, Galantis
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Euphoria Music Festival
This interactive festival located in Texas welcomes all beings of light to share their passions, talents and love of music. When it comes to a communal vibe that understands the culture, few are in the class of Euphoria. Join in this celebration of artistry and originality.
When: Thursday, April 7 – Sunday, April 10
Where: Carson Creek Ranch – Austin, Texas
Notable Performers: Above & Beyond, STS9, Dillon Francis, LOUDPVCK, Bassnectar, GRIZ, SNBRN
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival
This fashion forward, trend setting scene never fails to push the envelope when it comes to production and sound. One of the most coveted tickets of any music festival, a pass to Coachella will likely find you dancing among the stars.
When: Friday, April 15 – Sunday, April 17 & Friday, April 22 – Sunday, April 24
Where: Empire Polo Club – Indio, California
Notable Performers: AC Slater, AlunaGeorge, BAUUER, Calvin Harris, Dubfire, Ellie Goulding, Flume, G Eazy, Jack U, M83, Major Lazer, RL Grime, Sam Feldt, Sasha, Snails, TCHAMI, SZA, The Chainsmokers, Tokimonsta, Zedd, ZHU, Years & Years
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Hangout Music Festival
On the beach and in the sun, with an assortment of talented musicians, this boisterous sand castle delivers a monsoon of sound to the Gulf Shores of Alabama.
When: Friday, May 20 – Sunday, May 22
Where: Gulf Shores, Alabama
Notable Performers: Calvin Harris, Ellie Goulding, Flume, The Chainsmokers, 3LAU, Bro Safari, Snails
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Lightning in a Bottle
Reveal the secrets of the earth, become more in touch with your spirit and connect with others like never before. California’s most profound temple of consciousness will be uncovering new levels of energy for five divine days.
When: Wednesday, May 25 – Monday, May 30
Where: San Antonio Recreation Area – Bradley, California
Notable Past Performers: Cashmere Cat, Big Gigantic, Tokimonsta, Autograf, Guy Gerber, Minnesota
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
CounterPoint Music Festival
Get a taste of southern comfort in the rolling hills of North Georgia. Admire the stimulating installations in the Art Village, enhance your skills at the Midway’s workshops and celebrate your passion for music with thousands of other devoted fans.
When: Friday, May 22 – Sunday, May 24
Where: Kingston Downs, Georgia
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Zedd, Kygo, Knife Party, Dillon Francis, RL Grime, Zeds Dead, Gorgon City
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Summer Camp Music Festival
Gather around the campfire and enjoy a summer in the woods with your favorite musical artists. Illinois adds a twist to your childhood past time with competitive kickball and tug-o-war. This year will be an exciting camping experience like never before.
When: Friday, May 27 – Sunday, May 29
Where: Three Sisters Park – Chillicothe, Illinois
Notable Performers: STS9, Manic Focus, STS9, Snails, NGHTMRE, Protohype
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Mysterland USA
Step foot onto the Holy Grounds of Woodstock and immerse yourself in the new age of hippies. Laugh, love and live with our EDM family, spreading happiness and joy all over the fields of Bethel Woods.
When: Friday, June 10 – Monday, June 13
Where: Bethel Woods – Bethel, New York
Notable Past Performers: Odessa, Skrillex, Bassnectar, The Chainsmokers, Zeds Dead, Griz, TCHAMI, Gramatik, Keys N Krates, Zomboy, John Digweed, Claptone, Emancipator, The Floozies,
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Sunset Music Festival
Share sunshine and good times with the beautiful Ravers of Florida at this summer time Jam Fest. Expect hot weather, gorgeous people and magical rhythms as you walk through the gates of the Raymond James Stadium.
When: Saturday, May 28 – Sunday, May 29
Where: Raymond James Stadium – Tampa, Florida
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Tiesto, Skrillex, DVBBS, Flosstradamus, Showtek, Andrew Rayel, Sub Focus, TJR
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Movement Detroit
Enter into the city of ground breaking music and dynamic artistic paradigms. Expand your minds to the possibilities of the future with these cutting edgy creators of sound and their offerings of breakthrough music.
When: Saturday, May 28 – Monday, May 30
Where: Hart Plaza – Detroit, Michigan
Notable Past Performers: Loco Dice, Boys Noize, Art Department, Caribou, Guy Gerber, Justin Martin, Seth Troxler, Richie Hawtin, Tale of Us, tINI
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Electric Daisy Carnival New York
Insomniac Events travels world wide providing exuberant entertainment to the United Rave Nation. This show stopping company will be touching down in New York for another bass banging multi day dance music production.
When: Saturday, May 14 – Sunday, May 15
Where: Citi Field – New York, New York
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Afrojack, Bassrush Experience, Flux Pavilion, DJ Snake, UMEK, Tiesto, Kaskade, Seven Lions, Krewella, Arty, Chuckie, Crizzly, Nicky Romero, Hardwell, Yellow Claw, Firebeatz, Duke Dumont, W&W
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
The Governor’s Ball Music Festival
New York City’s mid-summer gathering provides a little bit of everything to satisfy your musical appetite. A big city vibe tucked away into Randall’s Island Park, Governor’s Ball consistently pulls the leading acts in the industry.
When: Friday, June 3 – Sunday, June 5
Where: Randall’s Island Park – New York City, New York
Notable Performers: Galantis, M83, Years & Years, Robyn
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Bonnaroo
Experience the gift of friendship at one of the country’s largest musical excursions. The Farm will be graced by some of the most talented performers from around the globe.
When: Thursday, June 9 – Sunday, June 12
Where: Great Stage Park – Manchester, Tennessee
Notable Performers: Ellie Goulding, Keys N Krates, The Chainsmokers, Zeds Dead, Flosstradamus, RL Grime, Cashmere Cat, M83, The Floozies, Adventure Club
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Firefly Music Festival
By far one of the most diverse adventures to encounter, this eruption of recreation and entertainment will smother you in exhilaration. From the Coffee House to the Arcade – the Brewery to the Hub – the Thicket to the Hammock Hangout, each corner you turn, another unforgettable memory awaits.
When: Thursday, June 16 – Sunday, June 19
Where: The Woodlands – Dover, Deleware
Notable Performers: Major Lazer, Disclosure, Deadmau5, Ellie Goulding, M83, TCHAMI, AlunaGeorge
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
What the Festival?!
The woods of Oregon hold more than just trees. With beat bumping DJs, an enormous wading pool, organic food vendors, a hookah lounge and a multitude of artistic showcases, this summer camp for adults transforms the forest into a temporary habitat for a body rocking audience.
When: Friday, June 17 – Monday, June 20
Where: Wolf Run Ranch – Dufur, Oregon
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Odessa, GRiZ, Keys N Krates, Thomas Jack, Tokimonsta, Justin Martin
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Electric Daisy Carnival Las Vegas
This traveling festival is world renowned for its astounding annual event in Las Vegas. This playground for adults is widely admired for its massive production and next generation special effects. Tickets sell out quickly, so get yours before it’s too late!
When: Friday, June 17 – Sunday, June 19
Where: Las Vegas Motor Speedway – Las Vegas, Nevada
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Afrojack, Bassnectar, Benny Benassi, Calvin Harris, 3LAU, Alesso, Excision, Avicii, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Zomboy, Deorro, Brillz, Oliver Heldens, Aly & Fila, Above and Beyond, Dash Berlin
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Electric Forest
Breathe in the freshness of the wild and release your spirit beneath the trees. Rothbury welcomes you to its playground. Come by yourself. Leave with a family.
When: Thursday, June 23 – Sunday, June 26
Where: The Sherwood Forest – Rothbury, Michigan
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: The String Cheese Incident, Bassnectar, Skrillex, Big Gigantic, Flume, Kaskade, Borgeous, Flux Pavilion, Pete Tong, Galantis, Phantogram, Gramatik, G-Eazy, Datsik, Dubfire
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Big Dub Festival
Deep in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania is where we come alive during this soul refreshing 5-day experience. The vibes are strong with this festival that avoids disposable, commercial sounds. An overwhelming sense of community is accentuated by all the electro funk you can handle.
When: Tuesday July 26 – Sunday, July 31
Where: Four Quarters Farm – Artemas, Pennsylvania
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Gladkill, Crizzly, Liquid Stranger, Minnesota, Planet of the DRVMS, ill Gates, Apashe
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Lollapalooza
Chicago is home to a stunning cultural experience that blends musical inspiration and environmental consciousness. This incredibly refined festival provides an exceptional line up of artists and an unparalleled awareness of the world around you.
When: Thursday, July 28 – Sunday, July 31
Where: Grant Park – Chicago, Illinois
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Bassnectar, Kaskade, Alesso, Nero, Dillon Francis, DJ Snake, Banks, What So Not, Nicky Romero, Caked Up, SZA, Mt Eden, RL Grime, The Chainsmokers, Kygo, Carnage, SNBRN
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Shambhala
There’s something magnificent about the beauty of nature and the sense of community in Canada. Sunbathe by the water or move in unison with the crowd. But whatever you do, do not miss the opportunity to enjoy this once in a lifetime adventure. Although this one isn’t in The States, a quick trip across the border into Canadian territory is highly recommended.
When: Friday, August 5 – Monday, August 8
Where: Salmo River Ranch – British Columbia, Canada
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Excision, Liquid Stranger, AC Slater, Big Gigantic, Claude VonStroke, Datsik, DownLink, Destructo, Zomboy, GTA, Jack Beats, Skrillex, Pretty Lights, Thomas Jack, Jauz, ETC!ETC!
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Imagine Music Festival
Bring your imagination on this voyage to an empire of individuality. The end of August will be an exploration of creativity in the EDM hot spot of Atlanta, Georgia.
When: Friday, August 26 – Sunday, August 28
Where: Atlanta, Georgia
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Dada Life, Datsik, The Glitch Mob, Chromeo, GRiZ, 12th Planet, Black Sun Empire
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Electric Zoo Wild Island
Electric Zoo has re-branded yet again from Electric Zoo Transformed to Electric Zoo Wild Island, and we couldn’t be more intrigued at the prospects. Unleash your inner animal amongst the ambiance of electronica.
When: Friday, September 2 – Sunday, September 4
Where: Randall’s Island Park – New York City, New York
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Dirty South, Above & Beyond, Audien, Ummet Ozcan, HeadHunterz, Alesso, 3LAU
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Dancefestopia
This Midwest mecca for EDM lovers has already announced its return for another campaign. Get ready for all the tasty beats you can handle in the BBQ capital of the world.
When: Friday, September 9 – Sunday, September 11
Where: Berkley Riverfront Park – Kansas City, Missouri
Notable Performers: TBA
2015’s Notable Performers: Borgeous, Keys N Krates, Porter Robinson, Party Favor, Apashe, Bassnectar, Zomboy
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Something Wicked
Disco Donnie brings the heat to the Lone Star State with this flagship event. The aural debauchery is always at maximum levels with this annual attraction.
When: Soon To Be Announced
Where: Sam Houston Race Park – Houston, Texas
Notable Performers: TBA
2015’s Notable Performers: Above & Beyond, Jack U, Steve Aoki, Seven Lions, DJ Snake, Tritonal, Blasterjaxx
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Voodoo Music & Arts Experience
The decade old Louisiana folklore comes alive as thousands of music lovers come together to worship sound over the weekend of All Hallow’s Eve. Become spellbound by the musical experience deep in the Louisiana Bayou.
When: Friday, October 28 – Sunday, October 30
Where: New Orleans City Park – New Orleans, Louisiana
Notable Performers: TBA
2015’s Notable Performers: Destructo, Jack U, Alesso, Deadmau5, Duke Dumont, Tchami, Bro Safari
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Suwanee Hulaween
Capture the Spirit of Suwannee and join in on this fourth annual event. Keeping with tradition, this festival will bring together the festival crowd in the midst of the Spanish moss. Exceptional music and vivid artwork are in no shortage at this paranormal place where magic exists.
When: To Be Announced
Where: Live Oak, Florida
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: The String Cheese Incident, Pretty Lights, Odessa, STS9, GRiZ, The Floozies
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
SnowGlobe Music Festival
Ring in the near year with great friends, great music and great landscape. Surround yourself by mountains and pristine snowflakes while you dance the night away in South Lake Tahoe.
When: To Be Announced
Where: South Lake Tahoe – California
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Jack U, Gryffin, Dillon Francis, Eric Prydz, What So Not, Galantis, Duke Dumont
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Decadence
The city of Denver, Colorado magically creates an atmosphere of stunning intensity at America’s largest New Year’s Eve dance celebration. Welcome another year of laughter as you indulge in the sophisticated extravagance of this elegant masquerade.
When: To Be Announced
Where: Colorado Convention Center – Denver, Colorado
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Bassnectar, Deadmau5, Hardwell, Excision, Big Gigantic, Galantis, Dabin, Odesza
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
III Points
An artistic showcase that extends way beyond the music, III Points comes alive in the Wynwood Art District of Miami, Florida. With mind-bending art installations and the craftiest deck masters in the game, III Points is yet another appealing option for those who appreciate the finer things.
When: To Be Announced
Where: Wynwood Art District – Miami, Florida
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Astronaut ETC, JBZ, Wolf + Lamb, Soul Clap, Dude Skywalker, Artime
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Hard Day of the Dead
Southern California is calling all ghouls, goblins and ghosts for a weekend of mischief and hard hitting bass. So come out, come out wherever you are.
When: To Be Announced
Where: The Fairplex – Pomona, California
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Deadmau5, Sub Focus, Skrillex, Borgore, Kill The Noise, Sliink, Jauz, Marshmello
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
North Coast Music Festival
A unique place to celebrate yourself and all of those around you, a place to experience new artists and revel in the marvelous sounds of your favorite DJs.
When: Friday, September 2 – Sunday, September 4
Where: Union Park – Chicago, Illinois
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: The Glitch Mob, Tycho, Steve Aoki, Knife Party, Chromeo, Gryffin, Porter Robinson
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Electric Daisy Carnival Orlando
Near, far and wide, Insomniac Events travels world wide to deliver orgasmic drops to the people of electronica. Join the sunshine state in celebrating the bass.
When: To Be Announced
Where: Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium – Orlando, Florida
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Bassrush Experience, Bro Safari, Calvin Harris, Chuckie, Blasterjaxx, Gorgon City, Seven Lions, Slander, Carnage, Audien, Bassnectar, Dannic, Flux Pavilion, FuntCase, DJ Snake, Tiesto, Laidback Luke, Excision, Eric Prydz, Kaskade, LOUDPVCK, Cocodrills, Jackal, Justin Martin, Snails, Mako
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
Lights All Night
If you’re looking for a visual thrill ride, this festival has just what you need. Designed with an outstanding production of lasers, music, art and performances, the Dallas Convention Center will feel like an electronic amusement park.
When: To Be Announced
Where: Dallas Convention Center – Dallas, Texas
Notable Performers: To Be Announced
2015’s Notable Performers: Hardwell, Kaskade, Porter Robinson, Flosstradamus, Baauer, Big Gigantic, JAUZ, Snails, Thomas Jack, Yellow Claw, Jackal, Prismo
More Info: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter
It’s time for you to enjoy a weekend of freedom, a weekend without judgment, a weekend for you and the ones you love.
This will be the year that you finally step out of your sheltered box of reality and into a world of imagination and beauty. So make your lists, and check them twice for this festival season is the time of your life.
Be sure to throw this one a bookmark and keep checking back.
We will be updating as more dates and lineups are announced and as more festivals confirm their return for 2016. Be sure to stay up to date with events by visiting our EDM Festival & Event Calendar.
We hope to run in to you at one of our many journeys during the upcoming season.
