Cities across the country are getting into the spirit by hosting memorable music legends, as well as multiple-day festivals that feature great acts. If you love to go to concerts and hang out with your friends, summer is the perfect time of year for top musical acts.
Check out these must-see concert festivals:
Bonnaroo Festival
The Bonnaroo festival happens on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee, from June 11 to June 14. The lineups are always fabulous and this year’s includes: Billy Joel, Mumford & Sons and Deadmau5. The venue is particularly fun for groups because the farm is equipped with onsite camping and RV options for lodging. This way, friends can get together before, after and during the festival with ease.
First-time concert goers should be aware that the Tennessee weather gets hot, so pack water and sunscreen, and wear comfortable clothes. The main vibe of this festival is to “radiate positivity” and “play as a team.” With an option to dress up in creative costumes, concert goers can don their spandex from MorphCostumes to add a new element of fun. This venue encourages friends to look after one another and not leave any member of a group behind.
Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza is in Chicago from July 31 to August 2. It is one of the more established festivals that occur during the summer. The festival is known for its organized approach and last minute preparations even when there is inclement weather. This year’s lineup includes Paul McCartney, Sam Smith, Metallica and Florence + Machine. Concert goers don’t want to miss Perry’s Stage, a one-of-a-kind experience at night with fuzzy boots, bling and a light show.
During the day, pace yourself because it is hot and there are several acts you’ll want to see. The Google Plus and BMI stages offer opportunities for shade and are good places to get together for lunch with some friends. If you are craving air-conditioning, you can always leave the venue and re-enter when it is cooler outside.
It usually rains during the concert, so don’t forget a raincoat or poncho to keep yourself covered. For some downtime, Chicago offers several attractions like the Field Museum or the Navy Pier.
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift is a fan favorite, and she plans to kick off her summer tour on May 20. This is an ideal opportunity for a girls’ night or a mother-daughter activity. Taylor Swift’s appeal is cross-genre, so her concerts always offer an interesting mix of people-watching.
U2
U2 continues to be among the highest cash-grossing acts on tour. With light shows, crisp sound quality and legendary music, both young and old fans come to hear Bono sing. This year, the band’s Innocence and Experience tour kicks off in May and lasts through the summer. Be prepared to have a more intimate experience, according to U2’s media team, as the band plans to create a stage setting unlike its other concerts.
From festivals to legendary acts, the music scene gives a chance for friends to get together and enjoy the vibe of a fun summer concert.