»MAY 23-28

Lightning in a Bottle

Lake San Antonio, Bradley, CA
LightningInABottle.org

Featuring:

Anderson Paak and the Free Nationals // Zhu // Tokimonsta // Griz // Tipper // Clozee // Beats Antique Lightning Orchestra // Emancipator // Random Rab // Phutureprimitive // The Glitch Mob // Stimming // Lyrics Born // The California Honeydrops

Vibe and Venue:

Journey to San Antonio Recreation Park—conveniently located halfway between The Bay and LA—to participate in a festival full of interactive art and immersive adventure. Attendees are invited to swim in the lake during the heat of the day, or hear music round the clock at seven main spaces with many other theatrical experiences to be found, largely shaded under the iconically artful structures made by the Do Lab. The intention of education is widespread with wellness workshops, yoga and meditation spaces, and creative content partnerships bringing worldrenowned thought leaders together on a range of subjects like earth wisdom, astrology, democracy, alchemy, and energy practices.

»MAY 25-27

California Roots Festival

Monterey County Fair and Event Center,
Monterey, CA
CaliforniaRootsFestival.com

Featuring:

Stephen Marley // Iration // Atmosphere // Slightly Stoopid // 311 // Dispatch // J Boog // Steel Pulse // Chronixx // Alpha Blondy // Mike Love // Hirie // Ozomatli // Trevor Hall // Xavier Rudd // The Holdup // Sammy J // Raging Fyah // New Kingston // The Ries Brothers // Tash Sultana

Vibe and Venue:

The Marley brothers bring the good vibes to Monterey County along with Australia’s Tash Sultana and the local E-40. Expect a wide array of energizing dance tunes along with yoga, art, and after-parties. Don’t forget your reusable water container for their free water stations so you can do your part to green the event.

»MAY 25-27

BottleRock Napa Valley

Napa, CA
BottleRockNapaValley.com

Featuring:

Bruno Mars // Muse // The Chainsmokers // Incubus // Earth, Wind & Fire // The Killers // Snoop Dogg // The Head and the Heart // Billy Idol // Bleachers // E-40 // Michael Franti & Spearhead // Halsey // Thievery Corporation // Phantogram // The Revivalists // Soja

Vibe and Venue:

In its sixth year, BottleRock has established itself as a showcase of musical and culinary stardom. This being Napa expect spas, wine, beer, craft cocktails, and, of course, decadent meals. It’s technically sold out, but there’s still opportunity in the after-market.

»JUNE 7-10

SoulPlay Festival

Pinecrest, CA
Soulplay.co

Featuring:

Maesyn // Sol Norda // AfriCali ft. Az. RedSmoke & Aceyalone // Alia // Sharu // Pascal de Lacaze // Sky Makai // Kai Mata

Vibe and Venue:

Gaze at the stars and travel into the depths of your soul at Camp Blue, just three hours from the Bay Area. As the name implies, SoulPlay is more than a music festival but is primarily centered on dance and movement, wisdom sharing, touch and sensuality, intimacy and communication, with live music and DJs holding the container for workshops. Be open to heart connections.

»JUNE 8-11

Enchanted Forest Gathering

Black Oak Ranch, Laytonville
EnchantedForestMendo.com

Featuring:

Beats Antique // Truth // Ozomatli // Dumpstaphunk // Liberation Movement // High Step Society // Del the Funky Homosapien // Mark Farina // Phutureprimitive // DNA // Dirtwire // Zach Deputy // Lyrics Born // Monophonics // Graves // Truth // Ill-Esha // China Cats // Andreillian // Manatee Commune // Motion Potion

Vibe and Venue:

Ground yourself in a magical realm of silliness and sauciness on the dancefloor for a transformative experience at this lovely and popular 4 days, 3 nights popular boutique festival. Complete with all the goodies of great headliners, this conscious music festival also offers kidslandia, yoga and dance workshops, and glamping. Like the name implies, Enchanted Forest is a spellbinding gathering at the mythical Black Oak Ranch, where you can enjoy live performances and hypnotizing beats, including heavy bass.

»JUNE 22-24

Sierra Nevada World Music Festival

Mendocino County Fairgrounds,
Boonville, CA
SNWMFF.com

Featuring:

Beres Hammond // Steel Pulse // Tarrus Riley // Teddy Afro // Dread Mar I // Cocoa Tea // Protoje // Max Romeo // Romain Virgo // The Mighty Diamonds // Half Pint // Culture w/ Kenyatta Hill // Flavia Coelho // Jah9 // Nattali Rize // Randy Valentine // The NoMaddz // Kingston Rudieska // Wayne Wade // David Hillyard & RockSteady7 // Natty

Vibe and Venue:

Celebrate summer solstice weekend and world beats in Anderson Valley. With one central stage and surrounding world foods and cultural marketplace, this festival is family-friendly and easy to navigate. Reggae and roots rule the music lineup while the late-night dancehall sessions are an annual highlight. Join in the fun with live drumming, dancing, and colorful world music instruments.

»JUNE 28-JULY 1

Kate Wolf Music Festival

Black Oak Ranch, Laytonville, CA
KateWolfMusicFestival.com

Featuring:

Indigo Girls // Keb’ Mo’ // Los Lobos // Ani DiFranco // Baby Gramps // Joan Osborne // Joe Craven // Laurie Lewis // Martha Reeves & The Vandellas // Tom Paxton & The Don Juans // Leftover Salmon // David Bromberg Quintet // The Infamous Stringdusters // Mandolin Orange // Eileen Jewell // Amanda Anne Platt & The Honeycutters

Vibe and Venue:

Folks who love folk music know this little gem on the NorCal festival circuit for its laid-back summer camp vibes where acoustic music, bluegrass, and the sweet sounds of yesteryear merge together within a sea of tie-dyed attendees. Summertime traditions such as campfire sing-alongs, ukulele jam sessions, riverside swims, gospel Sundays, and plenty of other outdoor activities are available for fans of all ages. Added incentives include extra shade at the main music bowl where your $5 donation helps Mendocino County fire victims.

»JULY 5-8

High Sierra Music Festival

Plumas Sierra County Fairgrounds,
Quincy, CA
HighSierraMusic.com

Featuring:

The String Cheese Incident // Sturgill Simpson // Grace Potter // Chris Robinson Brotherhood // Lettuce // The Wood Brothers // Foundation of Funk // The California Honeydrops // Lotus // The Floozies // Turkuaz // Margo Price // The Motet // Antibalas // Ernest Ranglin // Pigeons Playing Ping Pong // Birds of Chicago // Y La Bamba // The Barr Brothers

Vibe and Venue:

Where jam band, jazz, bluegrass, and new grass music are served in abundance. The flat grassy fields of the fairgrounds complete with paved pathways make this High Sierra a family-friendly favorite. Daily costume themes, colorful parades, artist playshops, sunrise kickball, silent disco, and late-night campsite renegade shows are mainstays. The hot days may have you seeking shade and indoor areas but wherever you turn improvisational musical alchemy will be there.

»JULY 12-15

California Worldfest

Nevada County Fairgrounds, Grass Valley, CA
Worldfest.net

Featuring:

Galactic // Trevor Hall // Anoushka Shankar // Samantha Fish // Mike Love // Teskey Brothers // Dustin Thomas // Niyaz ft. Azam Ali // Huun Huur Tu // Joanne Shenandoah // Battle of Santiago // Ranky Tanky // Moshav // Noreum Machi // MaMuse // Fula Brothers // Saritah // Mélisande // Raye Zaragoza // Achilles Wheel // David Luning

Vibe and Venue:

Worldfest is staged in the tall pines and grassy green hillsides of the Sierra Foothills, in the artistic town of Grass Valley. The local producers of Worldfest are known for curating incredibly talented up-and-coming world music acts with added emphasis on women artists. Little ones love the wide-open meadow where they play together in the highly reputable (and supervised) kidzone. Artists and attendees alike appreciate the fresh air and relaxed, intimate atmosphere of Worldfest, now in its 21st year.

Redwood Ramble

Camp Navarro, Mendocino, CA
RedwoodRamble.com

Featuring:

Sam Bush // Keller Williams’ Petty Grass // The Ramble Jam // Mike Farris & The Rosalind Rhythm Revue // Achilles Wheel // New Monsoon // Steve Poltz // Tony Furtado // Dirty Revival // Dead Horses // Rita Hosking // Hannah Jane Kile // Rusty Stringfield // The Dolly Mamas

Vibe and Venue:

Bring your kids to Redwood Ramble and have fun splashing in the river at Camp Navarro. This intimate family festival features innovative summer camp-like activities like tye-dying T-shirts, Qi Gong, and Tai Chi, as well as family jam sessions and juggling lessons. Scarce tickets make the Ramble something of a close-knit invitational with improvisational jams going well into the night by the firesides.

»JULY 13-15

Oregon Country Fair

Veneta, Oregon

Vibe and Venue:

The oldest running festival in our lineup began in 1969, and given its Ken Kesey–Springfield Creamery heritage, famously hosted The Grateful Dead in 1972. Decades later, OCF masterfully presents a kaleidoscope of vibrant expression and colorful creativity for all ages and every orientation on 20 official stages and with a meticulously vetted artisan market that is second to none.

»JULY 19-22

Wanderlust Festival

Squaw Valley, North Lake Tahoe, CA
Wanderlust.com/festivals/squaw-valley/

Featuring:

DJ Drez // Garth Stevenson // Ron Artis + The Truth // Jesse Blake // Sol Rising // October’s Child // RootHub // SuperTallPaul // DJ Taz Rashid // Allen Stone // Beautiful Chorus // Desert Rhythm Project // Little Hurricane // Jacqueline Radha Rosen // Stevon Artis

Vibe and Venue:

Wanderlust festivals and events have grown to international proportions, proving that the yoga + music + nature formula works. We NorCal folks can luxuriate at the premiere Squaw Valley location where expansive mountaintop meditations, first-rate musical lineups, and big-name teachers make for a primo holistic experience. You don’t need a ticket to skip through the marketplace into a village of hundreds of free samples by yogafriendly wellness lifestyle brands. One popular highlight—the DJ poolside parties at 8,000 feet.

»JULY 26-29

Guitarfish Music Festival

Cisco Grove Campground, Truckee, CA
GuitarfishFestival.com

Featuring:

Con Brio // Pimps of Joytime // Or-gōne // Dynohunter // Dead Winter Carpenters // DJ Williams’ Shots Fired // Todo Mundo // Steve Poltz // Royal Jelly Jive // Achilles Wheel // Handmade Moments // Midtown Social

Vibe and Venue:

Find the 300-acre Cisco Grove Campgrounds on the glimmering Yuba River just beyond Truckee. A nature-lover’s ideal grounds for hiking, mountain biking, climbing, swimming, birdwatching, and more. Bridging that environmental awareness with entertainment is at the crux of Guitarfish’s non-profit partnerships. Where funk, bluegrass, and jam bands weave into nature conservancy.

»AUGUST 10–13

Beloved Festival

Tidewater, OR
BelovedFestival.com

Featuring:

Lineup TBD

Vibe & Venue:

Beloved Festival imagines an all-inclusive container of heart-centered conscious culture from the moment you are greeted at the whimsical forested entrance to what feels like a fairy tale. A “no booze or shoes on the dance floor” rule creates an exemplary flow around the main stage, and the producer goes to determined lengths to program an eclectic lineup, which is often kept secret. Attendees are encouraged to come more for the vibe than the acts. Caring for your neighbors, constant cooperation, active engagement, authentic smiles, and embodied eye contact—just some of the reasons you’ll see the beloved in everyone you meet at Beloved.

»AUGUST 10-12

Outside Lands

Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
SFOutsideLands.com

Featuring:

Janet Jackson // Odesza // The Weekend // Florence + The Machine // Portugal.The Man // N.E.R.D. // Future // Beck // Bon Iver // DJ Snake // Mac Demarco // Tycho // Daniel Caesar // Big Gigantic // James Blake // Chvrches // Jamie XX // Father John Misty // Illenium

Vibe and Venue:

Known by some as the Coachella of the Bay, Outside Lands has folks buying tickets before the lineup drops, trusting the music at Outside Lands will always be topnotch. The Bay Area’s biggest backyard party returns with epic bites, drinks, and a music lineup for all tastes. Outside Lands caters the hippest festival food menu with special treats from local eateries, food trucks, and breweries pouring equally for foodies and music enthusiasts.

»AUGUST 26 – SEPTEMBER 3

Burning Man

Black Rock City, Nevada

This issue contains a recent interview with deceased founder Larry Harvey, whom we mourn. What can we say? Larry really started something and we’re curious as to how his passing will affect the vibe on the playa this time. Common Ground will provide its annual preview in our subsequent Summer issue.

»SEPTEMBER 12-17

Bhakti Fest West

Joshua Tree, CA

Featuring:

Jai Uttal // Krishna Das // MC Yogi/Amanda // Sean Johnson & The Wild Lotus Band // Donna De Lory // Govind Das & Radha // Larisa Stow // Fannah Fi Allah // Kirtaniiyas // Girish // Fantuzzi // Prajna Vieira // Nina Rao // Gaura Vani & Visvambhar: Juggernauts // David Newman // Jaya Lakshmi & Ananda // Gina Sala // Arjun Baba // Prema Hara // Joss Jaffee // Ananda Rasa // Sita Devi

Vibe & Venue:

The end-of-summer destination for activating yourself into higher levels of awakening; join the migration of fellow seekers in the sacred Joshua Tree desert. With the mantra “be in the bhava” (i.e., the mood of feeling embraced by devotion), this festival nurtures loving-kindness for humanity as a refuge from its disarray, with offerings of prayer in a multitude of forms, including kirtan, dance, and breath work.

»MAY 24–29

Lightning in a Bottle

Bradley, CA

LightningInABottle.org

Featuring:

Bassnectar // Troyboi // Big Wild // Bob Moses // Nicola Cruz // Bonobo // Paper Diamond // Richie Hawtin // Bomba Estero // Orgone // ill.Gates // eDit // Kaytranada // Climbing Poetree

Vibe & Venue:

The San Antonio recreational lake is 50% full after many dusty years. By teaming with content partners such as Bioneers, Planet Experts, and Indigenous Environmental Network, LIB is leading the way in directing sustainable earth literacy to the festival space. Plenty of interactive elements such as Amori’s Casino and Burlesque, The Lost Hotel Theater, the Black Rock Observatory, and the 360-degree Digital Art Projection Technology Dome.

»MAY 26–28

BottleRock Napa Valley

Napa, CA

BottleRockNapaValley.com

Featuring:

Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers // The Roots // Foo Fighters // Macklemore & Ryan Lewis // Ani DiFranco // Maroon 5 // Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals // Live // House of Pain

Vibe & Venue:

This Napa bonanza aligns celebrity chefs such as Martha Stewart, José Andrés, and Masaharu Morimoto with worldclass pop stars. A slew of downtown aftershow parties define BottleRock as a premiere destination that sells out quickly with only aftermarket tickets available.

»JUNE 8–11

SoulPlay Festival

Pinecrest, CA

SoulPlayFestival.com

Featuring:

Sasha Rose // Ryan Herr // Jennifer Johns // Mikey Pauker // Nona Fender & the Benders // Trevor Green // Geometrae // Caveman // El Dub // Wren LaFeet // Raina Satori

Vibe & Venue:

An adults-only event encouraging embodiment through the direct experience of intimacy in movement and play. The Stanislaus National Forest provides a perfect alcohol- and drug-free mountain lake backdrop for nourishing healthy human contact.

»JUNE 9–11

Enchanted Forest Gathering

Mendocino, CA

EnchantedForestMendo.com

Featuring:

Tipper // The Polish Ambassador // Tokimonsta // Pimps of Joytime // Noisia // Dimond Saints // Mike Love // The Floozies // Kalya Scintilla

Vibe & Venue:

“Sacred, Sexy, Silly, and Saucy” is the mantra as the lush Black Oak Ranch provides the setting for 100 regional and international musical acts on four artfully constructed stages. Sub hubs include a foam party sponsored by Dr. Bronner’s, the Nectar Temple for healing tune-ups, the women-only Red Tent and Emerald Forest, and an on-site solar-powered medical cannabis dispensary.

»JUNE 16–18

Sierra Nevada World Music Festival

Boonville, CA

SNWMF.com

Featuring:

Barrington Levy // Anthony B // Lee “Scratch” Perry // Gentleman // Chronixx // Tarrus Riley // Capleton // Macka B // Mellow Mood // Third World

Vibe & Venue:

A summer solstice weekend favorite located in the scenic countryside of wine- and beer-famous Boonville in Anderson Valley. Roots music and reggae rhythms permeate the family-friendly grassy meadow focused around a single main stage followed by lively indoor dance hall action after dark.

»JUNE 16–18

Monterey International Pop Festival

Monterey, CA

MontereyPopFestival50.com

Featuring:

Phil Lesh & the Terrapin Family Band // Jackie Greene // Norah Jones // Jim James // Regina Spektor // Charles Bradley & His Extraordinaires // Dr. Dog // Jack Johnson // Nicki Bluhm & the Dirty Dozen Brass Band

Vibe & Venue:

The 50-year commemoration of one of the defining events that shaped the Summer of Love. This all takes place in precisely the same place on precisely the same dates! A hippie counterculture landmark event.

»JUNE 23–25

Kate Wolf Music Festival

Laytonville, CA

KateWolfMusicFestival.com

Featuring:

Brandi Carlisle // John Prine // Lukas Nelson & the Promise of the Real // Dar Williams // Bruce Cockburn // Rising Appalachia // Poor Man’s Whiskey // Carrie Rodriguez

Vibe & Venue:

Gather with the folk music family that fills Black Oak Ranch every summer in laid-back Laytonville to celebrate Kate Wolf’s in memoriam musical legacy. Family vibes abound!

»JUNE 29–JULY 2

High Sierra Music Festival

Quincy, CA

HighSierraMusic.com

Featuring:

Gov’t Mule // Trey Anastasio Band // Mike Gordon // Ween // Galactic // STS9 // The Greyboy Allstars // The Travelin’ McCoureys // Jerry Joseph & the Jackmormons // White Denim // Keller Williams’ Grateful Gospel

Vibe & Venue:

Long live the annual jambandfan reunion as thousands of live-music lovers band together in the scenic hills for the 27th year running. Rubbing elbows with headliners is not uncommon, as improvised guest sit-ins occur serendipitously.

»JULY 7–9

Oregon Country Fair

Veneta, OR

OregonCountryFair.org

Featuring:

Lineup TBD

Vibe & Venue:

The oldest running festival in our lineup began in 1969, and given its Ken Kesey–Springfield Creamery heritage, famously hosted The Grateful Dead in 972. Decades later, OCF masterfully presents a kaleidoscope of vibrant expression and colorful creativity for all ages and every orientation on 20 official stages and with an artisan market that is second to none.

»JULY 13–16

Redwood Ramble

Navarro, CA

RedwoodRamble.com

Featuring:

Grateful Bluegrass Boys // Fruition // Hot Buttered Rum // Monophonics // Achilles Wheel // Band of Heathens // T Sisters

Vibe & Venue:

Nestled safely among the tall redwood trees of Camp Navarro, bluegrass and new-grass bands assemble to pay homage to the craft. A string-pickers paradise blended with family fun, summer camp–style activities. Limited tickets.

»JULY 13–16

California WorldFest

Grass Valley, CA

WorldFest.net

Featuring:

Michael Franti & Spearhead // Seun Kuti // Etana // Katdelic // DakhaBrakha // Peter Yarrow // Alash // Supaman // Betsayda Machado // Femina // Pamyua // RankyTanky // Simrit // Federspiel // Niki J Crawford // La Misa Negra // Martha Redbones Roots Project // Leyla McCalla

Vibe & Venue:

The Nevada County Fairgrounds provides abundant shade and green grassy meadows during this famously family-friendly weekend event where world music takes center stage in a community well-known for musical magnetism. Diversely curated acts include a truly international lineup of up-and-coming musicians, making the experience of discovery a key component of the vibe. World-Fest’s women producers try to feature female artists—a considerable detail, as the music industry tends to be male-dominated.

»JULY 20–23

Wanderlust Festival

North Lake Tahoe, CA

Wanderlust.com

Featuring:

Rod Stryker // Seane Corn // Gurmukh // Kathryn Budig // Maty Ezraty // Janet Stone // Lettuce // Little Dragon // Quixotic // DJ Drez // Dustbowl Revival // Bibi McGill // DJ Seriousblack // Sol Rising // Lemanjo // Zack Darling // Khruangbin // IN-Q // Elijah Ray

Vibe & Venue:

Wanderlust festivals and events have grown to international proportions, proving that the yoga + music + nature formula works. We NorCal folks can luxuriate at the premiere Squaw Valley location where expansive mountaintop meditations, first-rate musical lineups, and big-name teachers make for a primo holistic experience. You don’t need a ticket to skip through the marketplace into a village of hundreds of free samples by yoga-friendly wellness lifestyle brands. At 8,000 feet, you might be sharing the pool with skiers, as the mountain may still be open on this exceptional snow year.

»JULY 27–30

Guitarfish Music Festival

Tahoe National Forest, CA

GuitarfishFestival.com

Featuring:

Vieux Farka Toure // Greener Grounds // See-I // Liberation Movement // Ronkat’s Katdelic // The Main Squeeze // House of Hamsa // Sirens of Soul // Joy & Madness // Desert Rhythm Project

Vibe & Venue:

Four stages swell for four days of endless energy at the 300-acre Cisco Grove Campground as organizers keep the community container grounded by cultivating interactive art and educational spaces. As the setting suggests, watershed preservation and conservation give this fest its eco premise.

»AUGUST 3–6

Reggae on the River

Garberville, CA

ReggaeOnTheRiver.com

Featuring:

Sly & Robbie // Marcia Griffiths // Dezarie // Slightly Stoopid // J Boog // Junior Kelly // Ken Boothe // Cherine Anderson // Assassin // Walshy Fire // Kabaka Pyramid // Tatanka // Lutan Fyah & the Riddim Rebels // Nattali Rize // Prestige // Marla Brown // Sensimilla Dub

Vibe & Venue:

Now in its 33rd smash year, Humboldt County’s homegrown festival is comfortably situated on the Eel River, bridging the rhythms of the main stage with a beachlike setting on the riverbanks. Enjoy the irie vibes of high summer at this stellar setting accompanied by the all-too-familiar Humboldt
scent of . . . an essential part of the local economy and a primary component of the rastaman vibration. The lineup features regional musical performances alongside reggae music legends.

»AUGUST 11–13

Outside Lands

San Francisco, CA

SFOutsideLands.com

Featuring:

The Who // Metallica // A Tribe Called Quest // Gorillaz // Lorde // Little Dragon // Queens of the Stone Age // The Avett Brothers // Solange // Future Islands // Belle & Sebastian // Fleet Foxes // Rebelution // Bomba Estéro // Young the Giant

Vibe & Venue:

In its 10th year, SF’s biggest backyard party in Golden Gate Park continues to show tangible improvements. Top headliners mixed with gourmet goodies sourced from local foodie hotspots, trend-setting artisan cocktails, craft brews, and extensive VIP viewing create the vibe. Smartphone apps, bike valet, and pedi-cabs help keep OL Green.

»AUGUST 11–14

Beloved Festival

Tidewater, OR

BelovedFestival.com

Featuring:

Lineup TBD

Vibe & Venue:

Beloved Festival imagines an all-inclusive container of heart-centered conscious culture from the moment you are greeted at the whimsical forested entrance into what feels like a fairy tale. A “no booze or shoes on the dance floor” rule creates an exemplary flow around the main stage, and the producer goes to determined lengths to program an eclectic lineup, which is often kept secret. Attendees are encouraged to come more for the vibe than the acts. Caring for your neighbors, constant cooperation, active engagement, authentic smiles, and embodied eye contact—just some of the reasons you’ll see the beloved in everyone you meet at Beloved.

»AUGUST 17–23

Oregon Eclipse Gathering

Ochoco National Forest, OR

OregonEclipse2017.com

Featuring:

Lineup TBD

Vibe & Venue:

A 55,000-acre private ranch in eastern Oregon sets the stage for a weeklong worldwide gathering with expert production by transformational event virtuosos in order to bear witness to the rare eclipse. A gathering for the ages, if you can obtain a ticket.

»SEPTEMBER 7–11

Bhakti Fest

Joshua Tree, CA

BhaktiFest.com

Featuring:

Deepak Chopra // Krishna Das // Trevor Hall // Jai Uttal // MC Yogi // Rahdanath Swami // Fanna Fi Allah // Shiva Rea // Yogrishi Vishvketu // Mark Whitwell // Saul David Raye // Sienna Sherman

Vibe & Venue:

The end-of-summer destination to activate yourself into higher levels of awakening and join the migration of fellow seekers in the sacred Joshua Tree desert. With the mantra “be in the bhava” (i.e., the mood of feeling embraced by devotion), this festival nurtures loving-kindness for humanity as a refuge from its disarray, with offerings of prayer in a multitude of forms, including kirtan, dance, and breath work.

» MAY 25–30

Lightning in a Bottle

Bradley, CA

LightningInaBottle.org
Chet Faker // The Polish Ambassador // Emancipator Ensemble // Alina Baraz // Grimes // Dimond Saints // The Pimps of Joytime // Jaime XX // Dirtwire // Eprom // Cashmere Cat // Big Gigantic // Nahko and Medicine for the People // Rubblebucket // Lucent Dossier Experience

Vibe & Venue:

In its third year at the spacious San Antonio Recreation Park halfway between SF and LA, LIB has become a hit with the Burning Man crowd, and its interactive environments accommodate 20,000 attendees. Electronic music all-stars, downtempo and sacred sounds, ecstatic dance, improv arts, live theater and ritual performance, and visionary art installations weave the web of exotic attractions to kick off the Memorial Day weekend. Besides the multiple stages, cultural hubs include The Temple of Consciousness, The Learning Kitchen, The Village, The Grand Artique, The Marketplace, and The Healing Sanctuary, among others. As active stewards of the land, the LIB ethos is “leave it better” and “leave it beautiful,” a philosophy exhibited on the smiles of those transformed by this transformational fest.

» MAY 27–29

California Roots Festival

Monterey Fairgrounds, CA

CaliforniaRootsFestival.com
Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley // Michael Franti & Spearhead // Stephen Marley // Slightly Stoopid // Barrington Levy // Rebelution // Pepper // Tribal Seeds // Tarrus Riley // J Boog // Hirie // Thrive // Atmosphere

Vibe & Venue:

Cali Roots Festival brings good vibrations to coastal Monterey for both the longtime devoted and newcomers to the NorCal reggae roots scene. With multiple Marley brothers and reggae legends on the main stage and local popup performances guaranteed, the days will blend into nights with the After Dark Lounge (offsite sold separately). Don’t miss your chance to peep Michael Franti’s “Do It for the Love” nonprofit program—bringing the joy of music to those who need it most.

MAY 27–29

Bottle Rock

Napa, CA

BottleRockNapaValley.com
Stevie Wonder // Red Hot Chili Peppers // Florence & the Machine // Cold War Kids // Lenny Kravitz // Buddy Guy // The Lumineers // Rodrigo y Gabriela // Death Cab for Cutie // Gogol Bordello // Walk the Moon // Group Love // Atlas Genius // Alina Baraz

Vibe & Venue:

In its fourth year, Bottle Rock features a world-class lineup to suit a broad range of musical and culinary tastes. Entrance includes access to four stages of musical talent spanning pop, rock, soul, funk, indie, and more. The Culinary Stage presents over 100 celebrity chefs, restaurateurs, vintners, and brewers serving up demonstrations, exhibitions, and other high jinks—including a mashup of rock stars and athletes as guest chefs. Sample inspired cocktails, a wide variety of regional wines, and locally crafted beers to complement the exquisite and globally influenced cuisine—all at the center of Napa, a VIP destination in its own right.

JUNE 9–12

Ecstatic Now

Pinecrest, CA

EcstaticNow.com
Shaman’s Dream // Mikey Pauker // Liquid Love Drops // Dear Beloveds // The Heartifact // Avani // Sweet Medicine

Vibe & Venue:

A unique new festival, Ecstatictouts itself as an experiment in radical connection. All-inclusive four-day event brings together speakers, practitioners, and musicians, facilitating a content-rich, heart-opening, connective experience in the stunning Stanislaus National Forest. You’re invited to leave your inhibitions, patterns, and conditioning behind. Come open to the magic and possibility of experiencing a new way of being. With workshops in movement, meditation, touch, yoga, and communication, Ecstatic Now invites you to celebrate life to the fullest.

JUNE 10–12

Raindance Campout

Wilseyville, CA

RaindancePresents.com
Boreta // Shades // Antennae // Christian Martin // The Human Experience // Sam Binga // Katdelic // Andreilien // Fort Knox Five // Worthy // Vibesquad // Mikhai // Nico Luminous

Vibe & Venue:

Raindance has a history of custom curating some of the original outdoor electronic music festival campouts, as well as epic and artful events throughout the year, such as the stellar Chinese Lunar New Year gatherings in SF and The Freaker’s Ball in Santa Cruz. This summer they bring their crew of electronic genius for a full weekend of all-night music with top producers and brandnew collaborations. Hosted at Blue Mountain Event Center in beautiful Butte County just outside of Grass Valley.

JUNE 17–19

Sierra Nevada World Music Festival

Boonville, CA

SNWMF.com
Toots & the Maytals // Don Carlos // Beres Hammond // Alpha Blondy // Cocoa Tea // Etana // Israel Vibration // Lee // Scratch // Perry // Richie Spice // Pablo Moses // Tanya Stephens // Céu

Vibe & Venue:

Celebrate world peace with world beats where irie vibes and world roots music make this summer solstice tradition a family-friendly favorite on the festival circuit. A central stage and late-night dancehall send out the sounds of summer, with reggae music ruling the lineup. Share your voice, dance, and drum with the colorful world cultures and special spirit that unites Anderson Valley every year. World music artists often collaborate onstage and share in passionate calls to action for world peace, inviting us all to bridge the one world family through the love of music.

JUNE 23–26

Kate Wolf Music Festival

Laytonville, CA

KateWolfMusicFestival.com
Neko Case, k.d. lang, Laura Veirs // Harry Belafonte // Ruthie Foster // Eric Bibb // Blame Sally // The Wood Brothers // Nicki Bluhm and the Gramblers // Calexico // Trampled by Turtles

Vibe & Venue:

A tribute to folk legend Kate Wolf, this is a laid-back Sonoma County fest where the young and the young-at-heart find common ground in sing-alongs, campfire jams, riverside swims, and plenty of other outdoor summertime activities that manifest naturally there.

JUNE 30–JULY 3

High Sierra Music Festival

Quincy, CA

HighSierraMusic.com
Tedeschi Trucks Band // Thievery Corporation // Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals // Dr. Dog // The Chris Robinson Brotherhood // Femi Kuti & The Positive Force // Greensky Bluegrass // The California Honeydrops

Vibe & Venue:

Jam band fans count on the timeless and refreshing feeling of their annual arrival to the elevations of Quincy for a carefree Fourth of July weekend of High Sierra reunions and offbeat traditions. Artists often band together, playing multiple sets or sitins with other acts throughout the weekend. Campsite collaborations and renegade RV performances give fans the easy feeling of always being in the right place at the right time. Flat, grassy lawns filled with movement activities, plus paved pathways, a swimming pool, indoor facilities, and plenty of shade, allows for a fun and effortless family affair.

JULY 14–17

California WorldFest

Grass Valley, CA

WorldFest.net
Boz Scaggs // Nahko and Medicine for the People // Delhi 2 Dublin // Fannah-Fi-Allah // Third World // MaMuse // Dustin Thomas // Awa Sangho // Mariachi Flor de Toloache // Boogat // Baskery // Los Pinguos // Dead Winter Carpenters // MYSTYFYA // Emel Mathlouthi

Vibe & Venue:

Staged in the tall pines of the Sierra Foothills, WorldFest is where you’ll find families dancing together barefoot in the grassy hills of Grass Valley at this much-loved midsummer fest. The local producers are known for assembling both established and up-and-coming musical acts that prominently feature women. Known as one of the most kid-friendly summer festivals, little ones love the wide-open meadow kid zone, where they are free to create their own experience. Artists and attendees alike appreciate the fresh air and intimate, relaxed atmosphere year after year.

JULY 14–17

Wanderlust

Squaw Valley, CA

Wanderlust.com
Stephen “Ragga” Marley // Beats Antique // Gaudi // Kaminanda // Tasha Blank & the Get Down Crew // DJ Drez // MC Yogi

Vibe & Venue:

Wanderlust festivals have spread to become a global success since hosting their original yoga-music blend at Squaw Valley in 2009. The legendary ski resort warmly welcomes the shiny, happy yogis of summer as it hosts workshops, classes, pool parties, outdoor adventure options, shopping, food, and wine.

JULY 22–25

Enchanted Forest Gathering

Laytonville, CA

EnchantedForestMendo.com
The Polish Ambassador // Ayla Nereo // Shpongle // Pantyraid // Thriftworks // Bluetech // SaQi // Hamsa Lila // Manoj // Neptune // Brian Hartmann // Andreilien // Youssouphe Sidibe // Fannah-Fi-Allah // Clozee // Haana // Attya // Kyrsten Pixton & eO // Cheraki // Sixis

Vibe & Venue:

By blending the very best of West Coast electronic, acoustic, and traditional world music, Enchanted Forest has become a popular boutique destination with its holistically appealing lineup. Nestled amid the magical oak groves at Wavy Gravy’s Hog Farm, the producers have structured a sweet and safe community container—this is an alcohol-free event—within a landscape of charm and fantasy. High marks go to the stage, art, and interactive designers for their attention to detail and to the event producers for envisioning a sacred, sexy, silly expression.

JULY 28–31

Guitarfish Music Festival

Cisco Grove, CA

GuitarfishFestival.com
ALO // The Greyboy Allstars // Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds // Orgone // Lyrics Born // Hamsa Lila // Poor Man’s Whiskey // Afrolicious // Mumbo Gumbo // Wheeland Brothers // Jankytown Orchestra & the Jankasarous Art Car // Revival // Aphrodesia // Eric McFadden

Vibe & Venue:

Just west of Truckee and south of Lake Tahoe, the 300-acre Cisco Grove Campground houses a nature lover’s treasure trove. Enter Guitarfish Festival with its clever roster of jam band, bluegrass, and funk presented alongside an eco-awareness celebration for the safekeeping of waterways and for the preservation of marine life in rivers and streams. Now in its sixth edition with humble grassroots, you’ll dance at the Orca, Dolphin, and Starfish stages and then take pause to learn about vital preservation nonprofits.

AUGUST 4–7

Reggae on the River

Garberville, CA

ReggaeOnTheRiver.com
Sizzla Kalonji & The Fire House Band // Anthony B // Sister Carol // Million Stylez // Jesse Royal // King Yellowman // Proteje & The Indiggnation Band // Soul Syndicate with Mad Professor, Big Youth, U-Roy, Randy Valentine, Marty Dread, Earl Zero // Mbongwana Star // New Afrobeat

Vibe & Venue:

In its 32nd year, Reggae on the River is an authentically Humboldt County event. Enjoy beachfront reggae jams in the summer sun all day and into the chilled night at French’s camp on the south fork of the Eel River. Join legendary reggae artists at this mainstay of the cannabis community and relish homegrown organic food with plenty of opportunity to partake.

AUGUST 5–7

Outside Lands

San Francisco, CA

SFOutsideLands.com
Radiohead // Lionel Ritchie // Sufjan Stevens // Duran Duran // Air // LCD Soundsystem // Lana del Ray // J Cole // Zedd // Ryan Adams and the Shining // Big Grams // Griz // Grimes // Beach House // Miguel // Third Eye Blind // Kehlani // Miike Snow // Chance the Rapper // St. Lucia

Vibe & Venue:

Within the stunning natural landscape of iconic Golden Gate Park, Out side Lands brings the biggest names in music to seven-plus stages—including a comedy tent and a GastroMagic stage for quirky mixology mash-ups. Find gourmet food options, locally crafted beer, kombucha, and wine at this 200,000-person event. SF characteristically encourages eco-involvement—the whole city has banned both bottled water and plastic bags—so bring your own bottle for water refills and take advantage of the smartphone app to help navigate the vast options.

AUGUST 12–15

Beloved Festival

Tidewater, OR

BelovedFestival.com
LINEUP TBA

Vibe & Venue:

The luscious emerald green forests near the Oregon coast host this favorite, where the vibe is more important than the music. Beloved is where community connection and openhearted embrace frame the foundation for reunion, sacred arts, music, and ritual. An alcohol-free event with one stage and a shoe-free dance floor, the producers curate a well-balanced menu of electronic, world, and sacred music. When you enter the campgrounds, you agree to cooperation, active engagement, a challenge to make eye contact with everyone you meet, and to seek out anyone on the sidelines. Finding the Beloved is the intended impetus of every encounter.

SEPTEMBER 8–11

Bhakti Fest

Joshua Tree, CA

BhaktiFest.com
Krishna Das // Jai Uttal // Trevor Hall // MC Yogi // Donna De Lory // Fannah-Fi-Allah // Kirtaniyas // David Stringer // Jaya LakshmiAnanda // Larissa Stow // Sean Johnson // Girish // Ananda Rasa

Vibe & Venue:

Bhakti Fest is the cornerstone “must” event at summer’s end for those seeking a spiritual and sober (alcohol-free) space to explore the realms of devotional practices. Nestled inside the vaunted Joshua Tree Retreat Center, Bhakti Fest creates a context of sacred worship unlike any other, with the finest gathering of kirtan performers. Participate in the sounds of all-night song, mantra chanting, and sunrise meditations amid stunning desert landscapes. Dive deep into practice with foremost spiritual leaders, world-class asana teachers and workshop facilitators. Nourish the body with organic vegetarian food, an onsite swimming pool, and an expert healer’s village. A plentiful pilgrimage to unwind from the Labor Day weekend.

» MAY 21–25

Lightning in a Bottle

Bradley, CA

LightningInABottle.org

Lineup includes:

Odesza, Flume, SBTRKT, RL Grime, Tycho, Griz, Ott., Panda Bear, John Digweed, Thomas Jack, The Human Experience, The Opiuo Band, Phutureprimitive, Govinda, Random Rab, Rising Appalachia

Located between the Bay Area and LA, LIB kicks off summer fest season in tent-camping style with a stellar, primarily electronic allnight-long music lineup to galvanize your Memorial Day weekend. Highly innovative daytime programming and interactive art throughout the expansive venue complement the thoughtful, creative infrastructure skillfully produced by The DoLab. Expect the unexpected, exploring areas such as The Learning Kitchen, Temple of Consciousness, and The Village, honoring indigenous wisdom, sacred ceremony, plant-based education, herbal elixirs, visionary art exhibition, tribal community, and more.

» MAY 29–31

Bottle Rock

Napa Valley, CA

BottleRockNapaValley.com

Lineup includes:

Robert Plant, Snoop Dogg, Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Imagine Dragons, No Doubt, The Avett Brothers, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Foster the People, Portugal the Man, Cage the Elephant, Young the Giant, Lettuce, JJ Grey & Mofro, Xavier Rudd, Courtney Barnett

Set in downtown Napa, the third iteration of this uniquely well-heeled experience showcases a broad spectrum of top-shelf musical acts as well as the exquisite culinary creations of regional chefs. As the name implies, many a bottle of locally produced Napa Valley vintages will be on hand to help lubricate your hip sways.

» JUNE 12–14

Once Upon a Festival

East Park Reservoir

OnceUponAFest.com

Lineup includes:

Emancipator, Dimond Saints, Desert Dwellers, Random Rab, Brian Hartman, Clever Alias, DJ Dragonfly, Little John, Andreilien, AtYya, An-ten-nae, Coyote Kisses, DJ Dakini

Demonstrating the true community spirit of summer music and dance, the production teams behind the best theme camps and fests in the West (Envision, Lucidity, Enchanted Forest, Antennae Presents, Raindance, Emmersion, Sacred Spaces, and more) bring a fabulously fantastical collaboration in this sweet, boutique festival with a heavy-hitting electronic lineup. A place where the colorfully costumed can go all night. Promising soundscape adventures, whimsical floating stages, and expertly themed sparkle.

» JUNE 19–21

Sierra Nevada World Music Festival

Boonville, CA

SNWMF.com

Lineup includes:

Jimmy Cliff, Thievery Corporation, Steel Pulse, Max Romeo, Third World, Common Kings, Ken Boothe, Yellowman, Big Youth, The Very Best, Melbourne Ska Orchestra, Gentleman’s Dub Club, Jesse Royal

Sierra Nevada World Music Festival celebrates its annual family summer reunion on solstice weekend. World music artists unite with the purpose of creating a “one big earth community” vibe. Two music stages and a latenight dancehall bridge diverse beats interwoven with dancing, singing, drumming, crafting, eating, and togetherness.

» JUNE 25–28

20th Annual Kate Wolf
Music Festival

Laytonville, CA

KateWolfMusicFestival.com

Lineup includes:

Smokey Robinson, Angelique Kidjo, Steve Earle & The Dukes, Cris Williamson, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Iron & Wine, Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings, The Wailin’ Jennys, MaMuse, Poor Man’s Whiskey, Hot Buttered Rum, Absynth Quartet, T Sisters, The Coffis Brothers, Playing for Change Band

A gem on the summer roundup that continuously exceeds expectations, the Kate Wolf Fest bridges traditional folk music legends with well-loved regional acts and more than a few impressive up-and-comers. Favorite summertime activities abound such as campfires, jam circles, creek-side dips, and Sunday gospel at Wavy Gravy’s Black Oak Farm and Camp Winnarainbow in Mendocino.

» JULY 2–5

High Sierra Music Festival

Quincy, CA

HighSierraMusic.com

Lineup includes:

The String Cheese Incident, Umphrey’s McGee, The Word, Galactic, Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe Lake Street Dive, The John Butler Trio, The California Honeydrops, Nahko & Medicine for the People, Rising Appalachia, Fruition, The Barr Brothers, Pimps of Joytime, Lotus, ALO, Phutureprimitive

In its 25th year, High Sierra ranks as one of elders on the West Coast festival scene, with its popular lineup improving with age. Independence Day weekend brings together longtime resident artists, exciting new acts, spectacular headliners, and humble jam-band fans alike to partake in the relaxing midsummer atmosphere of quirky traditions that have come to characterize High Sierra culture: costume nights, theme camp parties, sunrise silent disco/kickball, and late-night impromptu kazoo jams.

» JULY 16–19

Wanderlust Festival

Squaw Valley, CA

Wanderlust.com

Lineup includes:

Michael Franti, Thievery Corporation, Rob Garza, MC Yogi, DJ Drez, Trevor Hall, SWELLS, Trevor Exter, Wild Child, Buster Blue, Dharma Mittra, Shiva Rea, Seane Corne, Rod Stryker, Janet Stone, Nicki Doane, Ana Forrest, Danni Guttierez, Kevin Courtney

Squaw Valley sets the scene for this yoga and music fest. By day, experience a range of world-class instructors, or stand-up paddle boarding yoga on Lake Tahoe or DJ pool parties at 8,200 feet. Save some energy for the evening, for by dusk the vibe is transformed as the stage lights come on.

» JULY 16–19

California Worldfest

Grass Valley, CA

WorldFest.net

Lineup includes:

Lucinda Williams Band, King Sunny Ade & His African Beats, Buffy SainteMarie, The Sam Chase, Beats Antique, John Trudell & Bad Dog, Birds of Chicago, Todo Mundo, Honey of the Heart, Sambadrop, Nadi, Brian Hartman, Portland Cello Project

The 2.5 hour trip from the Bay Area is well worth it to experience the artsy, outdoorsy communities of sister cities Grass Valley and Nevada City. California Worldfest highlights a sweet sampling of the local flavor with a bristling lineup of both home-grown and imported talent teeming with female rockers. Set in the open space bordering Tahoe National Forest, this beautiful setting offers a “games on the green” kids zone that provides mutual freedom for you and your little ones in a country fair environment.

» JULY 30–AUGUST 2

Reggae on the River Festival

French’s Camp, Humboldt

ReggaeOnTheRiver.com

Lineup includes:

Stephen Marley, Cham, Collie Buddz, Flavia Coelho, Nahko & Medicine for the People, Tarrus Riley & Blak Soll, Inna Vision, The Congos, Emmanuel Jal, Protoje & The Indiggnation, Alborosie & The Shengen Clan, CeCile, Stick Figure

A 31-year mainstay on the summer circuit, Reggae on the River is recognized as one of the longest running roots music events in the world—and a convergence of NorCal cannabis culture. Come prepared to be completely immersed in an oasis of homegrown alongside the Eel River.

» AUGUST 7–9

Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival

Golden Gate Park, SF

SFOutsideLands.com

Lineup includes:

Elton John, Billy Idol, Wilco, The Black Keys, Mumford & Sons, Sam Smith, Kendrick Lamar, Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals, Chet Faker, Lake Street Dive, First Aid Kit, St. Vincent, Odesza, Porter Robinson, RL Grime, The Devil Makes Three, G-Eazy, Lindsey Stirling

Ideally located for the urban among us, Outside Lands includes a bounty of music, food, libation, and other onsite interactive entertainment—including a comedy tent and a gastromagic stage catering to a distinctly SF crowd. From foodie to techie and from hipster to hippie, Outside Lands provides ample room to maneuver between the many stages it occupies in Golden Gate Park. From the local producers at Another Planet Entertainment, Outside Lands emerged as a national destination festival.

» AUGUST 7–10

Beloved Festival

Tidewater, OR

BelovedFestival.com

Lineup includes:

BA end of May

» AUGUST 14–16

For the Funk of It Music Festival

Belden, CA

FTFFest.com

Lineup includes:

The Motet, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Polyrhythmics, Mojo Green with Hornmageddon, The Nibblers, The Humidors, Cherry Royale, Funktrek, Sean Lehe & The Family Practice, Dirty Revival, Fox Trot Mary, Swamp Zen, Soul Shine Band, Big Sticky Mess, Vinyl Gold, Nameless Natives

Swing by this boutique specialty festival billed as NorCal’s only camping all-funk music festival. It’s set in Belden—a funky Gold Country frontier town with a swimmable riverside. A portion of all proceeds goes to Future Kind.

» AUGUST 14–16

Enchanted Forest

Mendocino, CA

EnchantedForestMendo.com

Lineup includes:

TBA

» SEPTEMBER 10–13

Bhakti Fest West

Joshua Tree, CA

BhaktiFest.com

Lineup includes:

Jai Uttal, Krishna Das, Kirtaniyas, DJ Drez & Marti Nikko, Donna De Lory, MC Yogi, Saul David Raye, David Newman, Karnamrita, Sean Johnson & The Wild Lotus Band, Govind Das & Radha, Girish, Fanna Fi Allah, Srikology, Prajna Viera, Shiva Rea

Shake your Shakti at this unique intentional celebration set in the scenic, sacred desert of Joshua Tree. Cap your summer with a must pilgrimage to join the who’s who in the devotional singing (kirtan) and yoga movements. With ample opportunity to participate in spiritually infused movement practices and countless workshops—all set in an alcoholfree zone—Bhakti Fest has become a favorite gathering for those seeking to sustain a clear focus and higher connection.

» SEPTEMBER 17–20

Symbiosis Gathering

Oakdale, CA

SymbiosisGathering.com

Lineup includes:

TBA (10th anniversary)