The world’s music festivals aren’t just events – they’re experiences that pulse with the rhythm of their surroundings. Picture yourself soaking up smooth jazz at the Cape Town Jazz Festival, wandering through the eco-utopia of Wonderfruit in Thailand, or losing yourself under the starlit skies of Sziget in Budapest. The shimmering skyline at Clockenflap in Hong Kong offers a breathtaking backdrop, while the legends of Glastonbury and Coachella continue to set the standard for what music festivals can be. If 2025 is calling for adventure, these festivals are your perfect soundtrack. Pack your bags, prep your festival kit, and get ready for a journey that will leave you with stories – and playlists – for a lifetime.
Read More: Clockenflap 2024 – Your Complete Guide To Hong Kong’s Most Anticipated Festival
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Asia
Wonderfruit, Thailand
More than just a music festival, Wonderfruit is a five-day cultural retreat held every December at The Fields at Siam Country Club near Pattaya. It’s a celebration of art, sustainability, and holistic wellness, earning its place as one of Asia’s most immersive events with its forward-thinking ethos and dynamic programming. At its heart, Wonderfruit champions eco-conscious living through zero-waste initiatives, bamboo-crafted structures, and farm-to-table dining experiences. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Its music lineup features boundary-pushing electronic and techno acts, with the iconic Polygon Live Stage – a 360-degree spectacle of light and sound –creating the ultimate late-night atmosphere. For those seeking restoration and balance, Wonderfruit also offers yoga sessions, sound baths, guided meditations, and interactive art installations that spark creativity and connection.
Wonderfruit, wonderfruit.co, Instagram: @wonderfruitfestival
Shi Fu Miz, Hong Kong
Tucked away on Sai Yuen Farm in Cheung Chau, Shi Fu Miz is more than a music festival – it’s a curated experience where house and techno beats pulse in harmony with eco-conscious living. Co-created by FuFu Creative and La Mamie, it offers the perfect antidote to the chaos of city life. Though the 2025 dates remain unannounced, November is typically when this hidden gem takes centre stage.
Unlike sprawling mega-festivals, Shi Fu Miz is intentionally intimate, capped at just 1,000 attendees. The setting – a serene farm with views of Lantau Island – creates an atmosphere that feels more like an off-the-grid retreat than a weekend concert. Sustainability is woven into its DNA: single-use plastics are banned, food waste collection points are set up, and eco-platform collaborations spark important conversations.
Shi Fu Miz, www.shifumiz.com, Instagram: @shifumiz
Ultra, Hong Kong
When Ultra Music Festival lands in Hong Kong, the skyline isn’t the only thing lighting up. Usually held in June or September, this electrifying event transforms the city into a neon-drenched playground where music reigns supreme. Expect hypnotic lasers slicing through the night, pyrotechnics that turn up the heat, and visuals so mind-blowing you’ll wonder if you’ve stepped into another dimension. And then there’s the music – the heartbeat of the festival. Superstar DJs like Martin Garrix, Steve Aoki, and Marshmello know exactly how to keep the crowd in a collective frenzy until the final drop. With 2025 dates still under wraps, all eyes are on Ultra’s Instagram for the next announcement.
Ultra Hong Kong, ultrahongkong.com, Instagram: @ultrahongkong
EDC, South Korea
The legendary Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) lands in South Korea, turning Incheon into a spectacle of soaring beats, massive stages, and hypnotic visuals. Originating in Las Vegas, EDC has become synonymous with next-level production and neon-clad crowds who turn festival fashion into an art form. But EDC is more than music – it’s a performance. The Funkdafied Freaks – stilt walkers, aerialists, and circus performers – bring a surreal, theatrical energy that transforms the festival into an otherworldly carnival.
Past lineups have included icons like Zedd and Alesso, so expect nothing less than top-tier acts in 2025. The venue, INSPIRE Entertainment Resort, takes it up a notch with a luxury hotel, the state-of-the-art INSPIRE Arena, and Splash Bay, a glass-domed indoor waterpark that keeps the party vibe alive all weekend. Set for 25 to 26 April, 2025, EDC Korea offers a fusion of music, art, and immersive experiences.
EDC Korea, korea.electricdaisycarnival.com, Instagram: @edc_korea
Java Jazz Festival, Indonesia
Every year, Jakarta transforms into a haven for jazz lovers as the Java Jazz Festival takes over the city. Spanning three days, this globally renowned festival delivers more than 100 performances that merge classic jazz with contemporary influences, creating a fresh experience that never feels formulaic. The festival’s ever-evolving themes keep the energy alive, drawing a loyal international crowd alongside first-timers curious to see what makes it so special. Past editions have seen celebrated artists like Laufey, Jeff Bernat, and Christian Kuria take the stage, while local stars like Salma Salsabil ‘Aliyyah have cemented Indonesia’s place in the global jazz scene. In 2025, from 30 May to 1 June, expect a lineup that promises to set the perfect tone for your summer.
Java Jazz Festival, www.javajazzfestival.com, Instagram: @javajazzfest
Fuji Rock Festival, Japan
Set 1,000 metres above sea level at Naeba Ski Resort, Fuji Rock Festival returns from 25 to 27 July 2025 with over 200 local and international artists across three epic days. The sprawling grounds feature seven main stages, including the iconic Green Stage, which hosts up to 50,000 fans, alongside smaller, tucked-away spots for more intimate sets. Beyond the music, the festival’s spirit of adventure shines – ride the Dragondola, the world’s longest gondola lift, for panoramic views of the scene below. When night falls, the festival pulses on. The Oasis serves global bites from over 30 food stalls, while the Red Marquee keeps the party alive with all-night sets. Accommodation ranges from the nearby golf course campsite to cosy ski lodges, but spots fill fast, so early booking is essential.
Fuji Rock Festival, en.fujirockfestival.com, Instagram: @fujirock_jp
Rolling Loud, Thailand
Hip-hop fans, take note – Rolling Loud has made waves in Pattaya, bringing the world’s largest rap festival to Thailand’s shores. Typically held in April or November, this tropical edition delivers an electrifying mix of massive beats, mosh pits, and headline-worthy performances. Past lineups have featured heavyweights like Playboi Carti, Lil Uzi Vert, and Bibi, turning the festival into a bucket-list event for rap lovers. But Rolling Loud Pattaya offers more than just music – it’s the whole scene. With its beachfront views and buzzing nightlife, the city makes Rolling Loud Pattaya feel like the ultimate hip-hop getaway.
Rolling Loud Thailand, www.rollingloud.com, Instagram: @rollingloud.th
Equation Festival, Vietnam
In Mai Chau, Vietnam, Equation Festival fuses underground electronic music with stunning natural beauty. Curated by Club Savage Hanoi, Cliché Records, and Fragrant Harbour, this three-day event transforms the Mo Luong Cave into an immersive soundscape where beats reverberate through ancient limestone walls. By day, the party spills into the open fields of the Pu Kha Mountain range for sunlit dancing. At night, the caves come alive with lights and pulsing energy, creating a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. Set for 4 to 6 April 2025, Equation Festival is a must for electronic music lovers looking to step off the beaten path.
Equation Festival, equation-festival.com, Instagram: @equationfestival
Wanderland Festival, Philippines
True to its slogan, ‘Good Music for Good People’, Wanderland Festival has become a mecca for indie, alternative, and pop lovers. Held at the Filinvest City Event Grounds in Muntinlupa, Philippines, it’s known for curating an eclectic mix of local and global talent. Past editions have seen homegrown acts like Grent Perez and August Wahh shine alongside international artists such as Kid Cudi, Jhené Aiko, and Sunset Rollercoaster. Nostalgic icons like Two Door Cinema Club and Carly Rae Jepsen have also delivered unforgettable sets. For 2025, Wanderland expands into a four-day celebration, running from 22 to 25 March.
Wanderland Festival, www.wanderlandfest.com, Instagram: @wanderlandfest
We The Fest, Indonesia
For a festival that feels like a celebration of everything great about summer, We The Fest in Jakarta delivers in spades. Celebrating over a decade of standout lineups, We The Fest has brought megastars like SZA, Daniel Caesar, Lorde, and The Strokes to the stage, with rising regional artists adding their own magic to the mix. Curated by Ismaya Live – the creators of the high-octane Djakarta Warehouse Project – the festival is known for its cinematic production and seamless flow of experiences. Wander between live performances and larger-than-life art installations, shop limited-edition fashion drops, or chill out with a cold drink at a shaded lounge.
We The Fest, wethefest.com, Instagram: @we.the.fest
Playback Music Festival, Philippines
Prepare to be swept away by a tidal wave of emo, punk, and rock nostalgia at Playback, the festival that pays homage to iconic throwback hits from across the globe. Past editions have featured legends like Leigh Nash, Blue, and Vertical Horizon – and 2025 is set to be just as epic. This year, the festival hits two cities: SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila on 9 May and Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino on 10 May. Headliners Boys Like Girls, The Click Five, and Secondhand Serenade will reignite your love for 2000s emo and pop-rock classics. Apart from the music, enjoy themed photo booths, exclusive band merch, delicious food stalls, and pop-up bars serving craft beers and cocktails.
Playback Music Festival, Ticketing available at smtickets.com (Manila) and ticketmelon.com (Cebu), Instagram: @playbackmusicfest
S2O, Hong Kong
From Bangkok to Hong Kong, S2O Festival brings the excitement of Songkran – the Thai water-splashing celebration – to the EDM scene. This high-energy festival blends electrifying beats with immersive water effects, making it the ultimate escape from the summer heat. The 2024 edition featured the Hydro Reactor main stage, complete with a 360-degree water-splashing system perfectly synced to the music, turning the festival into an aquatic playground. With past headliners like DJ NewJeansNim, Galantis, and Afrojack, S2O’s lineup guarantees an unforgettable soundtrack for any music lover. While 2025 dates are yet to be confirmed, S2O is expected to return in June, promising another epic splash in Hong Kong’s summer scene.
S2O Hong Kong, s2ohongkong.com, Instagram: @s2ohongkong
Clockenflap, Hong Kong
Few festivals embody the essence of a city quite like Clockenflap. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Central Harbourfront, this three-day celebration from 5 to 7 December 2025 brings together music, art, and food in a uniquely Hong Kong experience. With six stages featuring everything from indie rock to electronic anthems, Clockenflap has hosted icons like the Arctic Monkeys, bbno$, and Wu-Tang Clan, while also shining a spotlight on rising local talent.
Clockenflap, www.clockenflap.com, Instagram: @clockenflap
Europe
Glastonbury Festival, United Kingdom
Is it even a festival roundup without Glastonbury? The crown jewel of the global festival scene returns to Worthy Farm from 25 to 29 June, 2025. Securing a ticket may feel like winning the lottery – selling out in just 40 minutes last November – but for those lucky enough to attend, Glastonbury offers an unparalleled experience. From intimate hidden stages to the iconic Pyramid Stage, every corner brims with discovery. With Neil Young making his long-awaited return, Rod Stewart taking the Sunday legends slot, and whispers of Eminem and Olivia Rodrigo joining the bill, the 2025 line-up is already making waves.
Glastonbury Festival, www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk, Instagram: @glastofest
Tomorrowland, Belgium
In the heart of Boom, Belgium, Tomorrowland has become synonymous with the pinnacle of electronic dance music experiences. Returning over two weekends – 18 to 20 July and 25 to 27 July, 2025 – the festival is a masterclass in spectacle, known for its larger-than-life themed stages, jaw-dropping pyrotechnics, and an atmosphere straight out of a dream. With DJs like David Guetta, Martin Garrix, and Tiësto leading the charge, the line-up promises pulse-pounding sets against a backdrop of whimsical landscapes, from giant butterflies to volcanoes. But what sets Tomorrowland apart is its attention to detail – confetti storms, glowing forests, and a sense of belonging that unites dance music lovers from across the globe.
Tomorrowland, www.tomorrowland.com, Instagram: @tomorrowland
Primavera Sound, Spain
Missed your brat summer moment? Here’s your chance! From 4 to 8 June 2025, Primavera Sound in Barcelona celebrates its 25th anniversary with a star-studded lineup led by Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, and Chappell Roan. This year’s bill sparkles with global talent – Magdalena Bay’s electro-pop shimmer, Beabadoobee’s dreamy indie vibes, Yoasobi’s J-pop magic, Denzel Curry’s lyricism, and Parcels’ funky rhythms that’ll keep you dancing long after sundown. Beyond the mainstage at Parc del Fòrum, Primavera a la Ciutat takes over Barcelona with secret sets, exclusive gigs, and local surprises. Add beachfront breezes, interactive art, and standout culinary experiences, and you’ve got a celebration of sound and culture.
Primavera Sound, www.primaverasound.com, Instagram: @primavera_sound
Sziget Festival, Hungary
Set on Óbudai-sziget in Budapest, Sziget Festival is a week-long celebration of art, culture, and freedom. From 5 to 11 August, 2025, this iconic event will transform the Danube island into a global gathering of over 500,000 fans. With 50 stages hosting everything from rock and hip-hop to jazz and Roma music, the lineup is as diverse as its audience. Past editions have seen the likes of Dua Lipa, Arctic Monkeys, and Kendrick Lamar ignite the main stage, while circus acts, theatre performances, and exhibitions ensure there’s never a dull moment. This year, the newly introduced Night Quarter promises to take the festival’s after-hours scene to the next level, making dancing until dawn an essential part of the experience.
Sziget Festival, szigetfestival.com, Instagram: @szigetofficial
North America
Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival, Indio, U.S.A
For over two decades, Coachella has been more than a festival – it’s a moment. Returning to the Colorado Desert from 11 to 13 April and 18 to 20 April, 2025, it remains the stage where music, fashion, and cultural zeitgeist collide. This year’s lineup is pure dynamite, with Lady Gaga, Post Malone, and Green Day headlining what’s bound to be another chapter for the history books. But the buzz doesn’t stop there – Travis Scott’s creative genius will shape the festival’s set design, promising a spectacle worthy of his Astroworld legacy.
Coachella, www.coachella.com, Instagram: @coachella
Lollapalooza, Chicago, U.S.A
Few festivals blur the line between city and celebration like Lollapalooza. What began in 1991 as a roving celebration of alternative music has grown into a cultural juggernaut, firmly rooted in Grant Park since 2005. From 7 to 10 August 2025 (projected), the festival will once again transform Chicago’s lakefront into a sea of music, movement, and sky-high energy, with Imagine Dragons, Billie Eilish, The Weeknd, and Post Malone leading the charge. But it’s never just about the headliners – this 300-acre playground offers a full-spectrum experience, from hidden indie gems to sprawling art installations and local food that captures the city’s culinary scene. And when the last riff fades, Lolla’s legendary after-shows in intimate venues keep the party alive until the early hours.
Lollapalooza, www.lollapalooza.com, Instagram: @lollapalooza
Burning Man, Black Rock Desert, U.S.A
There’s nothing quite like Burning Man – part utopian art experiment, part desert odyssey. From 24 August to 1 September, 2025, Black Rock City will rise once again in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, embodying the theme ‘Tomorrow Today’ – a vision of steady progress, imperfect yet hopeful. What began in 1986 as a small bonfire on a San Francisco beach has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, where monumental art installations, surprise DJ sets, and interactive performances blur the lines between creator and spectator. But it’s not just about spectacle – it’s about community, self-expression, and pushing the boundaries of collaboration in a temporary metropolis shaped by 10 guiding principles, from radical inclusion to leaving no trace.
Burning Man, burningman.org, Instagram: @burningman
When We Were Young Festival, Las Vegas, U.S.A
Get ready to relive your emo and pop-punk glory days – When We Were Young Festival returns to the Las Vegas Festival Grounds on 18 October, 2025 for a nostalgic trip. With a lineup including icons like Avril Lavigne, Panic! At The Disco, Weezer, Simple Plan, and Sleeping With Sirens, it’s a throwback paradise for anyone who screamed their heart out to every lyric. Mark your calendar and embrace the scene with galaxy prints, studded belts, and side-swept bangs – it’s your chance to bring back the era in full style.
When We Were Young Festival, www.whenwewereyoungfestival.com, Instagram: @whenwewereyoungfest
Kilby Block Party, Salt Lake City, U.S.A
What began as a humble block party in 2019 has grown into Salt Lake City’s largest indie music festival, yet Kilby Block Party remains true to its community-driven roots. From 15 to 18 May, 2025, the festival will showcase a stellar lineup, including Wallows, Toro Y Moi, Melancholy Club, and Vacations, alongside a host of rising and established talents. KBP champions Utah by collaborating with local organisations and fostering a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
Kilby Block Party, www.kilbyblockparty.com, Instagram: @kilbyblockparty
South America
Popload Festival, Brasil
Set your sights on São Paulo this May as Popload Festival makes its highly anticipated comeback at Ibirapuera Park on 31 May, 2025. After a two-year hiatus, the festival promises a show-stopping return, with a lineup that feels like a love letter to music aficionados. Topping the bill is the ever-enigmatic St. Vincent, alongside the vocals of Norah Jones and Laufey’s Brazilian debut – a treat for lovers of jazz-pop brilliance. Renowned for its impeccable curation, Popload isn’t just another festival; it’s a cultural institution where alternative icons and indie-pop giants collide. Past editions have seen musical titans like Pixies, Tame Impala, and Iggy Pop electrify the stage, making it a must-attend for those who crave more than just a concert – a sonic odyssey.
Popload Festival, www.popload.com.br Instagram: @poploadmusic
Festival Selvámonos, Peru
Hidden in the lush jungles of Oxapampa, Selvámonos is where music, art, and nature unite in harmony. Known for its alpine-style charm rooted in German heritage, this serene retreat celebrates Peru’s brightest musical talents like ZEN, Laguna Pai, and Rafaell Cocoa, alongside a varied international lineup. Aside from the beats, festival-goers can savour traditional Peruvian dishes, German pastries, and refreshing local beers – truly a feast for the senses. With cosy jungle lodges nearby, it’s a perfect combination of culture and adventure. Vámonos!
Festival Selvámonos, prime.joinnus.com, Instagram: @selvamonos_festivales
Creamfields, Chile
When it comes to epic electronic music festivals, Creamfields is in a league of its own – and its Chilean edition promises nothing less. Set to return to Club Hípico in Santiago in November 2025 (dates TBC), this two-day festival transforms the city into a pulsating haven for dance music lovers. Last year’s headliners, including Swedish House Mafia, Fisher, and Nina Kraviz, set the bar sky-high, and 2025’s lineup is expected to be just as electrifying. If you’re looking to lose yourself in euphoric beats surrounded by an equally passionate crowd, mark this one down – Creamfields Chile is an EDM pilgrimage like no other.
Creamfields, www.creamfields.cl, Instagram: @creamfields_cl
Africa
Lake Of Stars Festival, Malawi
Few festivals capture the magic of place quite like Lake of Stars, set against the serene beauty of Malawi’s lakeside beaches. A celebration of Africa’s rich cultural rhythm, past editions have showcased talents like Zeze KingSton’s amapiano beats, Temwah’s soulful vocals, and Chmba’s hypnotic Afro-indie percussion. Picture yourself swaying to live music beneath treehouses and by the water’s edge, with every note amplified by the stunning natural backdrop. Though the 2025 dates are still under wraps, this festival is an unmissable retreat.
Lake of Stars Festival, lakeofstars.org, Instagram: @lakeofstars
Sauti Za Busara, Zanzibar
From 14 to 16 February 2025, Sauti za Busara – the ‘Sounds of Wisdom’ – returns to the historic streets of Zanzibar’s Stone Town, transforming it into a cultural heartbeat of East Africa. More than a music festival, it’s a celebration of Swahili heritage, complete with dance, local delicacies, and a deep sense of community. The 2025 lineup shines with African stars like South Africa’s Afro-soul powerhouse Thandiswa Mazwai and genre-blending Kenyan artist Blinky Bill. Tanzania’s Zawose Queens will captivate with their Gogo harmonies, while Mumba Yachi’s acoustic Afro-folk promises heartfelt moments.
Sauti Za Busara, busaramusic.org, Instagram: @sautizabusara
Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Expected in early May 2025, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival – fondly dubbed Africa’s Grandest Gathering – is a true celebration of artistry. Rising talents and global icons unite to showcase jazz in all its brilliance. The festivities kick off with a free community concert at Greenmarket Square, inviting everyone to soak up the energy. CTIJF’s workshops and masterclasses, led by world-class musicians, also make it a unique experience for fans and aspiring artists alike. With past line-ups featuring legends like Matt Bianco, Kokoroko, and Moonchild, this festival continues to inspire a shared love of music that resonates far beyond Cape Town.
Cape Town International Jazz Festival, www.capetownjazzfest.com,Instagram: @capetownjazzfest
Australia
Souled Out Festival, Australia
February in Australia just got smoother with Souled Out, the country’s premier R&B festival. Kicking off on 22 February at Melbourne’s Caribbean Garden, moving to Sydney’s Parramatta Park on 23 February, and closing at Brisbane’s Showgrounds on 28 February, it promises a soul-stirring journey across three cities. Global icons Don Toliver, Jhené Aiko, and Vince Staples headline this year’s stellar lineup, with performances from rising talents like Blxst, Jarreau Vandal, Kaash Paige, and Denise Julia.
Souled Out, www.souledoutfest.com, Instagram: @souledoutaus
LOOKOUT Festival, Australia
Brace yourself as LOOKOUT takes over Australia this February and March, bringing a powerhouse lineup to venues nationwide. With legends like JET, The Veronicas, Magic Dirt, and Spiderbait leading the charge, this festival is set to be a sonic spectacle of epic proportions. Whether you’re chasing fresh rock anthems or the thrill of live classics, LOOKOUT 2025 delivers wall-to-wall guitar glory. It’s time to crank up the volume – you won’t want to miss it!
Lookout Festival, lookouttour.com, Instagram: @lookoutfestival_au
Laneway Festival, Australia & New Zealand
Laneway Festival has built a reputation for spotting tomorrow’s headliners before the world catches on. Returning in February 2025, the festival’s cross-country tour will bring artists to Australia and New Zealand’s most vibrant cities. With Charli XCX, supported by indie favourites like Beabadoobee, Clairo, and Remi Wolf, this year’s lineup feels like a masterclass in cool. In addition, expect dance floor euphoria from BICEP’s AV set, beats from Barry Can’t Swim, and neo-soul magic from Olivia Dean. Laneway’s secret sauce? Its ability to make every set feel like a discovery.
Laneway Festival, www.lanewayfestival.com, Instagram: @lanewayfest
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