7 summer music festivals worth travelling for

As experience tourism peaks, outdoor festivals have become the ultimate way to tap into a city’s pulse. This festival season, here are the summer music events of 2026 to get excited about; whether an add-on to your itinerary or the inspiration for your trip, they promise to fuel your wanderlust. 

1. Primavera Sound, Spain

At Barcelona’s Parc del Fòrum, fresh sea air and laidback coastal vibes set the scene for Europe’s answer to Coachella returns for its 24th edition with a 150-strong lineup of artists, including headliners The Cure, Doja Cat, The xx, Gorillaz, Skrillex and My Bloody Valentine. While full festival and day tickets are already sold out, you can still attend the event’s dance-filled grand finale, Primavera Bits, on 7 June. There’s also a free Opening Day on 3 June, plus some 20 free daytime concerts at B arts centre as part of the Primavera a la Ciutat’s series of parallel activities taking place across the city.

3-7 June

2. Governors Ball Music Festival, US   

Those visiting New York this June can rejoice at being in town for the Governors Ball Music Festival. Held annually in the heart of Queens, the event welcomes more than 60 world-class artists across three stages. This year, headliners Lorde, Baby Keem, Stray Kids, Kali Uchis, A$AP Rocky and Jennie will be performing at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Bustling city, good music and food vendors from Queens Night Market: do you need any more reasons to add it to your travel plans?   

5-7 June 

3. Festival d'été de Québec, Canada

Founded in 1968, the Festival d'été de Québec (FEQ) is one of Canada’s longest-running music events. Set against the backdrop of the historic Plains of Abraham park in the heart of Quebec City, FEQ will span a whopping 11 days, six stages and more than 175 performances. With a blend of international and homegrown acts representing a broad range of genres from rock to hip-hop, it’s no wonder the festival is set to attract over one million attendees. Canadian talents Michael Bublé, Souldia and Patrick Watson are among the stars with top billing this year, joined by Gwen Stefani, Kesha, The Lumineers and Muse, to name but a few. 

9-19 July 

4. Dekmantel Festival, Netherlands 

In between exploring Amsterdam’s charming neighbourhoods and the Netherlands’ scenic countryside this summer, electronic music fans should carve out some time for Dekmantel Festival 2026 . Just minutes from the capital in Amsterdamse Bos park, it boasts a lineup of global pioneers like Darkside, Helena Hauff, Skrillex and Sampha, plus more than a hundred other rising acts across multiple stages. It’s where cutting-edge sounds meet lush green landscapes – the ultimate summer escape for dance music purists. 

29 July – 2 August 

5. Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival, South Korea   

What links alternative rock band Asian Kung-Fu Generation, Little Simz, Beck, beabadoobee, Hyukoh and Balming Tiger? They were all headliners for Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival last August. Hosted at Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, which is equally convenient to reach from Incheon Airport and downtown Seoul, the festival pairs an electrifying lineup with easy access. This year’s theme is “movement”, reflecting the festival’s aim to serve as a platform for meaningful exchange and impact across Asia and beyond. While the 2026 programme remains under wraps, you won’t find a better way to experience South Korea’s vibrant music culture, whether you’re here for indie legends or K-music innovators.  

31 July – 2 August 

6. All Points East Festival, UK  

Known for its usually gloomy drizzle, London transforms into a sun-drenched playground each summer – and All Points East Festival provides just the soundtrack. Returning to Victoria Park for its eighth edition, the festival is marking the milestone by inviting artist Tyler, The Creator to headline two nights. Other headliners to look out for include Jorja Smith + Tems, Lorde and Twenty One Pilots. There will also be a special collaboration event between All Points East and the punk-centric Outbreak Fest. The festival runs for six nights across two weekends. Bring your sunglasses (and maybe a poncho, because this is still London).  

21-23, 28-30 August 

7. Rock en Seine Paris, France 

Picture this: sunlight glinting off Haussmannian buildings as you stroll along the banks of the Seine towards Rock en Seine , aka the music festival boasting one of Europe’s most exciting lineups this summer. This year Lorde, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Deftones, The Cure and Tyler, The Creator, will be among the acts taking the stage at the five-day event. If you’re visiting the French capital in late-August, this is truly unmissable. Be sure to start your festival days the right way: with a fresh morning croissant. 

26-30 August 

This story was first published in July 2025. It was updated in April 2026 and accurate at the time of publishing.