7 Global Music Festivals To Have On Your Radar This Summer
With settings from buzzing cities to beautiful natural landscapes, these seven global festivals offer unique experiences that every music lover should have on their radar. Each festival brings its own flavour, celebrating local culture while drawing top international acts. Whether you’re a fan of techno, country or eclectic mixes, there’s something for everyone…
1. Cavendish Beach Music Festival, Canada – 5-7 July
Country music fan? Head to the charming coastal town of Cavendish, where over 60,000 fellow enthusiasts gather annually to see some of Nashville’s finest take the stage. Past performers have included country legends Eric Church, Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Taylor Swift and Chris Stapleton. This year will be no different, with Brothers Osborne, Tyler Childers and Zac Brown Band joining the lineup.
While you’re there, Cavendish itself has a lot going for it – especially if you’re the outdoorsy type. You can enjoy adventures including camping, amusement parks, seaside dining, hiking, galleries, shops and the beautiful Prince Edward Island National Park.
2. NOS Alive, Portugal – 11-13 July
NOS Alive returns to Passeio Marítimo de Algés in Portugal this July for its 16th edition. This year’s headliners include Service95 founder Dua Lipa, Arcade Fire and Pearl Jam, alongside acts such as Tyla, AURORA, Jessie Ware and The Smashing Pumpkins.
Since its 2007 inception, NOS Alive has become one of Europe’s top festivals, praised by critics and fans alike and featuring past performances from icons such as Coldplay and Metallica. Set near Lisbon, this sunny festival offers a mix of eclectic performances and proximity to the city’s attractions. The 2023 event drew 165,000 attendees, with 123 performances across seven stages – the 2024 edition is set to be the best yet.
3. Sunny Hill Festival, Kosovo – 25-28 July, 2024
Returning for 2024 after a one-year break, Sunny Hill Festival – held just outside the Kosovan capital city of Prishtina – is set to be one of the region’s biggest draws this summer. The event, founded by Dua Lipa, is known for its range of local and international acts spanning pop, electronic, hip-hop, R&B and dance, and previous headliners have included J Balvin, Diplo, Skepta and, of course, Dua.
The full lineup for 2024 is yet to be revealed, but big names so far announced include Burna Boy, Black Coffee, Yll Limani, Regard and The Martinez Brothers.
4. Fuji Rock Festival, Japan – 26-28 July, 2024
This year, Fuji Rock is celebrating its 25th anniversary at the iconic Naeba Ski Resort. Set in a mountainous area of the Niigata Prefecture just 90 minutes from Tokyo, this festival’s dramatic surroundings – think lush greenery and panoramic views – make its natural beauty worth the trip, before you’ve even seen the lineup.
Fans from all over the world will travel to see Peggy Gou, Kraftwerk, Sampha and a roster of more than 200 artists performing across multiple stages, offering something for every taste.
5. Forwards, UK – 31 August-1 September, 2024
Forwards, an inner-city music festival held at Bristol Downs, is known for attracting top international music acts alongside emerging local talent. The event celebrates Bristol’s rich musical heritage while featuring some of the most exciting names in contemporary music.
This year’s lineup includes UK favourites such as Loyle Carner, Greentea Peng, Jessie Ware and Four Tet. Grab your tickets, gather your friends, and head to the West Country to end the British summer on a high.
6. OASIS Festival, Morocco – 6-8 September, 2024
Morocco has become known for its budding music scene, especially within the techno and dance world, and OASIS is one of the best ways to sample it. Returning after a five-year hiatus, this boutique-style event fuses wellness, music, art and Moroccan culture in one weekend.
This year it’s taking place at the The Source Hotel in Marrakech, with acts so far announced including Laurent Garnier, TSHA and a DJ set from Jungle. Expect to dance till dawn against the beautiful backdrop of this historic city.
7. Lake Of Stars Arts Festival, Malawi – 6-8 September, 2024
Lake Of Stars music and arts festival returns this year, after a four-year hiatus, to mark its 20th anniversary and commemorate 60 years of Malawi Independence. Held at the beautiful Fish Eagle Bay Lodge on Sani Beach, this festival proudly showcases the finest Malawian talent alongside international acts.
In the past, artists such as Bombay Bicycle Club, Basement Jaxx and Nick Mulvey have performed along the stunning Malawi coastline, basking in the warmth of the sun. While the full lineup for this year is yet to be announced, amapiano artists Zeze Kingston and Temwah are set to headline. Mark your calendars.
Pia Brynteson is Content Editor at Service95
