Festivals are Coming Back - Here's What You Need to Know

This past year has taken a big strain on society physically and mentally. If there’s one thing that people missed in 2020, it was social events, concerts, and festivals with our loved ones. Drinking in overflowing crowds never sounded so good. With millions continuing to get vaccinated and states opening up more opportunities to be together again, we may soon be able to enjoy the freedom and social life we once lived. Luckily, a few music festivals are returning in 2021 that are a must.

Summerfest

Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Each year, over 900,000 people come together for what’s known as the largest musical festival in the country. This year, instead of the traditional late June/early July, the festival is pushing the dates back to September: 2-4, 9-11, and 16-18 because of Covid precautions. Halsey, Khalid, and Sam Hunt that were scheduled for 2020 have opted out of performing this year. Although the pandemic took its toll on Summerfest last year, much of its 2020 lineup will still be performing this year, including Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Dave Matthews Band, and Guns N’ Roses.

Lollapalooza

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Lollapalooza is a four-day music festival (July 29-August 1) that’s held at Grant Park in Chicago, Illinois every year. This is the perfect event for those grasping for that glimmer of hope in returning to a normal social life. “It will be the first major multi-genre music festival in the United States since the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020, and the largest mass gathering event in the country since that time, expected to host 100,000 fans a day.” A few of the headliners for 2021 include Post Malone, Tyler the Creator, Miley Cyrus, Foo Fighters, Modest Mouse, and more. If you love alternative rock, punk rock, hip hop, and electronic all in one, then this is the place to be.

Outside Lands

Location: San Francisco

If spending the day or weekend in the summer heat isn’t your cup of tea, then Outside Lands is a perfect music event to attend. From October 29-31 in Golden Gate Park, you can expect to find a diverse variety of artists including G-Eazy, Maren Morris, Guns N’ Roses, and Megan Thee Stallion. While general admission and VIP tickets are already sold out, Golden Gate Club tickets are still available which include signature food, drink, VIP entrance and transportation, and an exclusive viewing area of the stage. While this sounds like a dream come true, it does come with a hefty price, starting at $1,795/person per day.

Austin City Limits

Location: Austin, Texas

Inspired by the longest-running music series in television history (Austin City Limits TV), ACL music festival is one of the most popular in the U.S. Approximately 450,000 attendees and 130 performers (including Billie Eilish, Jon Pardi, George Strait, Stevie Nicks, etc.) gather at Zilker Park to share the unique experience. In 2005, Austin City Limits was nicknamed “The Dust bowl” from the excessive dust kicked up by the massive crowds. Sprinklers were added the following year, but it’s best to come prepared with bandanas, refillable water bottles, and close-toed shoes. ACL festival dates are October 1-3 and 8-10.

Unfortunately, even with Covid cases decreasing, not all events are coming back in 2021. Here are the festivals that will not be making an appearance this year:

Canceled Music Festivals:

Burning man

Coachella

Bluesfest

Cincinnati Music Festival

CMA Fest

Glastonbury

Stagecoach

With preparation and caution, events are coming back to bring the same fun, social loving experience they had before the pandemic. While the event planners are preparing and taking caution, we can prep for events, too. Bringing a phone charger - we all drain our battery’s taking photos, videos, and vigorously posting snaps. Many festivals occur during summer or in nice weather when the sunshine is out. Many of us love the sun, but it’s crucial to bring sunscreen to events that will be outside and uncovered. Probably the most important is to STAY HYDRATED. There is nothing worse than being dehydrated after partying in the hot sun all day. Many festivals won’t allow drinks or other liquids into the venues, but bring a reusable water bottle and even better, your favorite rehydration solution (such as Drinklyte) and it will keep you hydrated so all you have to worry about is having fun!