Ten of the most significant music festivals around the world, Part I

PART I—The First Ten

In this special edition of LEEP Ink Happenings, we explore part one of the pinnacle of music festivals worldwide, many with multiple city and nation tours. You might consider this my bucket list, as I want to go to every single one of these events. Each is spectacular in its own right, and I'm trying to pull from multiple regions of the world.

I am not including Morrocco's Fes Festival because I already covered it in a previous issue. Burning Man in Nevada and Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, as well, have been covered. Each deserves to be on this list (which is why I mention them).

Each event links to its page on LEEP Calendar, and each includes videos of the festivals. Just click on the picture or link, and you'll be there!

Please keep in mind that many of these dates are estimated. Venues are often secured a few months out, and as they are all onsite events, each can be canceled or postponed for a variety of reasons, manmade or nature-made.

Let's start in Scotland with the Military Tattoo.

One of the world's most original and exciting music festivals, the Military Tattoo—photo The Tatto Office.

ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO

Date: August 2-24, 2023

Location: Scotland, United Kingdom

Champion: The Tattoo Office

I was confused when my friend in the United Kingdom told me about this event. Why would I want to watch a bunch of soldiers getting tattoos?

My Americanism was palatable.

She explained the event to me, raving about how her three sons loved it and that it was one of their favorite childhood experiences. I was skeptical—until I looked at the videos of the event. Wow! Bucket list? Yes!

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an annual series of military performances by the British Armed Forces, Commonwealth, and international military bands and artistic performance groups. It takes place on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh, Scotland, during August as part of the larger Edinburgh Festival.

Initiated in 1950, it has since evolved into a spectacular and globally recognized event, attracting performers and audiences from around the world. The term "tattoo" is derived from a historical military practice, where drummers or trumpeters would signal the time for soldiers to return to their barracks in the evening, which later evolved into elaborate musical performances. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo showcases the precision and discipline of military bands alongside dancers, acrobats, and cultural groups, providing a unique blend of music, ceremony, and entertainment.

The show follows a different annual theme, often reflecting historical events, cultural celebrations, or military anniversaries. One of the most iconic aspects of the event is the massed pipes and drums, featuring a hefty ensemble of bagpipe players and drummers from various Scottish regiments and international military units. The event concludes with a grand finale, typically including a "Auld Lang Syne" performance and a fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a significant cultural and major tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors to Scotland's capital each year. Proceeds from the event support various military, arts, and community organizations.

Tomorrowland is an electronic music spectacular held annually in the French Alps—promptography LD Lewis.

TOMORROWLAND WINTER

Dates: March 16-23, 2024

Location: Alpe d'Huez, France

Champion: Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland is the biggest electronic music festival in the world. Held in Belgium, Brazil, and France throughout the year, it includes electronic shows, live music, and one-of-a-kind shows.

The event is simulcast to local venues in Abu Dhabi, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Mexico, Spain, and Taiwan. If you're in these nations, see the website for details on how you can participate. In 2018, the event moved to two weekends in July. "Tomorrowland Winter," in the French Alps, began in 2019, further establishing its brand in the global Electronic Dance Music (EDM) scene.

Tomorrowland began in 2005 in Boom, Belgium. In its debut year, the festival hosted around 10,000 attendees. The entertainment company WeePee and the Belgian entertainment duo Manu and Michiel Beers organized the event.

Within a few years of its inception, Tomorrowland rapidly grew in size and popularity. By 2008, the festival expanded to a two-day event and began attracting international attention. By 2009, the festival drew 90,000 attendees, and starting in 2011, tickets for Tomorrowland began selling out in mere seconds, underscoring its meteoric rise in the EDM community.

2012 recorded an attendance of 185,000 people from over 75 countries.

The festival has continued to be a significant event in the EDM calendar. It introduces new themes annually, elaborate stage designs, and lineups featuring top-tier talent worldwide each year. The event's brand has expanded into various arenas, including radio channels, merchandise, and digital experiences.

Tomorrowland's massive success lies in its music and its attendees' comprehensive experience. The festival is known for its elaborate stage setups, impressive light shows, and thematic designs that change annually, creating a unique fantasy world for its visitors.

Revelers enjoying the Inland Empire desert concert of Coachella in California—promptography LD Lewis.

COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL

Date: April 12 - 21, 2024

Location: Indio, California, United States

Champion: Coachella

Coachella is an annual music and arts festival held over two weekends in Indio, California, United States. Coachella has since become one of the world's largest and most popular music festivals, with multiple stages featuring performances by a wide range of music artists, as well as art installations and other attractions.

The festival is typically held over two weekends in April and draws a large crowd of music and art enthusiasts and celebrities from around the world. The exact dates for the festival can vary from year to year. The first Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival occurred in October 1999.

A woman wearing a traditional mask during the Festival de la Virgen de la Candelaria—photo CPPET

FESTIVAL DE LA VIRGEN DE LA CANDELARIA

Date: February 2-14, 2024

Location: Puno, Peru

Champion: Comisión de Promoción del Perú para la Exportación y el Turismo

The Festivity of Virgen de la Candelaria, held in Puno, Peru, is one of the most significant cultural events in the country. It has been declared a part of the world's cultural heritage by UNESCO and takes place every February, attracting large crowds worldwide.

The festival honors the Virgin of Candelaria, the patron saint of Puno, and the celebrations involve traditional music, colorful costumes, vibrant dances, and religious processions, bringing together Catholic traditions and indigenous Andean religious customs, making it a unique blend of cultures.

This festival's origins intertwine with the Catholic faith and indigenous beliefs. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to the locals as a beautiful woman. When the locals tried to approach her, she disappeared and was replaced by a statue of the Virgin. This miraculous event led to the Virgin of Candelaria being proclaimed the patron saint of Puno. The festival also incorporates indigenous Andean traditions. Many of the dances performed during the festival illustrate stories about the spirits of the mountains (known as "Apus"), the devil ("Supay"), and various animals sacred to the indigenous peoples of the region.

The celebration begins on February 2, Candlemas, and the Catholic feast day of the Virgin of Candelaria. Festivities start with a grand parade that includes different brotherhoods from various communities in and around Puno, each wearing unique costumes and dancing to traditional music. One of the most captivating parts of the festival is the dance competition, held in the main stadium of Puno. Different dance troupes compete, each performing a traditional dance, like the Diablada (Dance of the Devils), Morenada, or Caporales. These dances often tell stories or depict battles between good and evil.

The festival peaks between February 10-12, with the day-long dance competition in the stadium. During this period, the city of Puno is awash with parades, parties, and processions, creating an atmosphere of festivity and celebration.

For a visitor, the Festivity of Virgen de la Candelaria offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in Peruvian culture. It's a time when the city of Puno comes alive with vibrant colors, traditional music, and a sense of shared cultural pride. The festival is a testament to Peru's rich cultural heritage, uniquely combining Catholic and indigenous traditions.

Concert attendees enjoying music—photo LD Lewis

PREMAVERA SOUND

Dates: November 25-26, 2023 (Buenos Aires); December 2-3, 2023 (São Paulo); December 7, 2023 (Asunción); December 9-10, 2023 (Bogotá); May 30 - June 1, 2024 (Barcelona); June 6-8, 2024 (Porto)

Location: Multiple locations

Champion: Primavera Sound

Primavera Sound is a notable music festival that began in 2001 and quickly gained a reputation for its eclectic and broad range of musical genres, including indie, pop, rock, electronic, and dance. A defining characteristic of the festival is its dedication to showcasing both well-established artists and emerging talent.

Primavera Sound's line-up is typically a mix of big names and promising new artists. The founding festival takes place in the Parc del Fòrum, a large seaside outdoor venue in Barcelona. Over the years, it has expanded to include additional locations.

In the early 2020s, the organizers of Primavera Sound announced plans to hold additional festivals in Los Angeles (United States) and Porto (Portugal).

Primavera Sound is also known for its strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented several measures to reduce the festival's environmental impact, such as recycling programs and using renewable energy sources. The festival generally takes place in late May or early June and lasts for several days, often attracting hundreds of thousands of music fans from around the world. It is considered one of Europe's most prestigious and popular music festivals.

"Bonnaroo" is Creole slang for "a really good time."

BONNAROO MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL

Date: June 20-23, 2024 (Estimated)

Location: Manchester, Tennessee, United States

Champion: Bonnaroo Farm

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival began in 2002, taking inspiration from music festivals of the 60s and 70s like Woodstock. "Bonnaroo" is Creole slang for "a really good time."

The festival lives up to its name. The lineup is exceptionally diverse, featuring multiple music genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, country, bluegrass, jazz, electronic, and folk. Over the years, some of the biggest names in music have graced the Bonnaroo stages, including Elton John, Paul McCartney, Eminem, and Radiohead.

Entering the festival site is like entering a different world. Thousands of tents are pitched on every available space, creating a colorful patchwork across the fields. The sense of community in these camps is incredible. Everyone is your friend at Bonnaroo.

Multiple activities provide entertainment throughout the four days. There's the Comedy Tent if you want to catch some laughs and the Cinema Tent, where you can chill and watch some films. They even have yoga classes and a mini-parade!

Bonnaroo features a fantastic array of food, including festival classics like burgers and pizzas, gourmet fare, vegan options, and everything in between. They also host a special Bonnaroo-themed beer. The festival's motto is "Radiate Positivity," precisely your mood throughout the event.

Glastonbury is one of the largest music festivals in the world.

GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL

Date: June 26-30, 2024

Location: Worthy Lane, Pilton, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, England, United Kingdom

Champion: Michael and Emily Eavis of Worthy Farm

The Glastonbury Festival, created in 1970 and drawing over 250,000 people a year, is like stepping into a magical wonderland where music, art, and good vibes come together in the heart of the English countryside.

Created by Michael Eavis on his farm in Pilton, Somerset, England, the humble gathering would evolve into something truly extraordinary. Glastonbury, or Glasto, is a five-day extravaganza that celebrates music, creativity, and community, including big-name headliners from a diverse lineup with genres ranging from rock, pop, and indie to electronic, folk, and world music.

Attendees dance to their favorite bands, discover new artists, and lose themselves in the rhythm and melodies that fill the air. In addition to music, the sprawling green fields transform into a colorful tapestry of tents, stages, and art installations.

Explore various themed areas, from the iconic Pyramid Stage (the festival's centerpiece) to the intimate acoustic performances in the legendary Stone Circle. Wander through the bustling markets filled with unique crafts, clothes, and delicious global food. Circus acts, theater performances, poetry readings, and even a dedicated Kidz Field for the little ones round out the electric atmosphere.

Over the years, Glastonbury has hosted some of the greatest artists of all time, including legends like David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Radiohead, and Beyoncé. Tickets sell out in a matter of minutes!

Glastonbury, in addition to music and art, focuses on social and environmental causes, actively promoting sustainability and green initiatives through "Green Fields" focused on eco-friendly living, renewable energy, and holistic well-being.

Gnaoua is a musical genre known for its hypnotic rhythm—promptography LD Lewis.

GNAOUA WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL

Date: June 20-22, 2024 (Estimated)

Location: Essaouira, Morocco

Champion: A3 Communications

Christians have Gospel music, and Islam in North Africa has Gnaoua.

The Gnaoua World Music Festival, also known as Festival Gnaoua et Musiques du Monde, is an annual celebration in the coastal town of Essaouira, Morocco. The festival explores and promotes the musical genre of Gnaoua and a variety of spiritual world music styles.

The festival began in 1998 to celebrate the Gnaoua musical tradition and its influence. Gnaoua music has its roots in sub-Saharan Africa, and it was brought to Morocco centuries ago through the trans-Saharan slave trade. Over the years, it has evolved into a unique Moroccan musical genre known for its hypnotic rhythm and spiritual undertones. Gnaoua people often are described as mystical musicians and storytellers, and their music plays a significant role in Moroccan culture.

During the late June festival, Essaouira comes alive with music performances citywide. The festival features a mix of local Gnaoua musicians (known as Maâlems) and international artists, resulting in a fascinating fusion of styles.

While Gnaoua music is the main highlight, the festival includes jazz, blues, pop, rock, soul, and global folk music performances, which can lead to some truly unique and exciting musical collaborations. One of the festival's most captivating aspects is the Lila, a traditional, all-night ritual concert that starts in the evening and goes on until dawn. These performances are spiritual experiences filled with music, dancing, and chanting, creating a trance-like state central to the Gnaoua tradition.

Apart from the music, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Essaouira itself, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its 18th-century seaport and ancient Arabic medina.

The Gnaoua World Music Festival is a cultural and spiritual journey that offers a deep insight into the unique Gnaoua tradition and its place in the world music scene.

Also, check out the Mawazine Festival Rhythms of the World in Rabat, Morocco, annually in late May or June.

Roskilde is one of Europe's biggest festivals driven by non-profit ideals—image Roskilde.

ROSKILDE FESTIVAL

Date: June 29 - July 6, 2024

Location: Festivalpladsen, Darupvej 19, Roskilde, Denmark

Champion: Roskilde Festival Charity Society

Denmark's eight-day Roskilde Festival began in 1971 when a couple of high school students, Mogens Sandfær and Jesper Switzer Møller, with promoter Carl Fischer, decided they needed a reason to party and hear great music. Over the years, the festival has grown exponentially in size and its cultural and societal impact.

With over 100,000 attendees annually, it's one of Europe's biggest festivals driven by non-profit ideals. All profits from the festival go to social and cultural charities.

What's it like? Picture a city of tents sprawling as far as you can see, filled with people from all walks of life gathered in one place to celebrate music, art, and community.

The music is diverse, featuring international stars and local Scandinavian talent, and nearly every genre is represented, including punk, electronic, jazz, hip-hop, rock, and folk performances. The Art Zone is another feature highlighting the work of innovative and talented artists. The Science Pavilion presents exploration, talks, and workshops on sustainability and technology. It's a real fusion of different cultures and ideas.

And then there is the food. Food stalls serve a wide range of cuisines that promote sustainability, including organic and vegan options.

The Roskilde Festival is for anyone who loves music, arts, and a vibrant community atmosphere. It's more than a festival; it's an experience.

Japan's largest music festival is a feast of nature and sound—Promotography LD Lewis.

FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL

Date: July 26-28, 2024 (Estimated)

Location: Naha Ski Resort, Yuzawa-cho, Niigata, Japan

Champion: Japan Arts Council

Nestled amidst the scenic mountains of the Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, the Fuji Rock Festival is a testament to the nation's enduring love affair with music. What began as an ambitious venture in 1997, with its initial outing at the base of Mount Fuji (hence the name), has since grown into one of Asia's most iconic music events.

It wasn't always smooth scaling. The festival's inaugural year was marred by adverse weather, with a typhoon forcing an early shutdown. However, despite this initial setback, organizers moved the event to its current location in Naeba in 1999, where it thrived and expanded yearly.

Beyond its impressive lineups—which routinely feature a blend of international superstars and local talent—the festival offers a uniquely Japanese experience. Stages like the "Green Stage" or "White Stage" aren't merely platforms for music but are set against Japan's stunning natural beauty. Festival-goers can enjoy top-tier performances while surrounded by lush forests and pristine landscapes.

Furthermore, the festival's commitment to sustainability sets it apart. Its eco-friendly initiatives, ranging from recycling efforts to encouraging public transportation, underscore the event's respect for nature.

Attendees can participate in workshops and activities that promote environmental awareness, ensuring that the festival's footprint remains as minimal as possible.

Fuji Rock is a blend of music, nature, and a commitment to sustainability. While many festivals worldwide offer stellar lineups or incredible venues, few manage to combine both in such a harmonious and culturally resonant manner. Fuji Rock stands out as a beacon of individuality and a testament to Japan's unique cultural tapestry.

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Guess what?

I ran out of room, which means there shall be a Memorable Mega Music Festivals Part II, likely in late winter/summer...depending on where you are.

Don't worry, Oceania, India, and Asia, I have not forgotten about you. Australia, New Zealand, Mongolia, Africa, South America, and India have some amazing music festivals. I'll get there. If you're not a subscriber, please subscribe. If you are a subscriber, please share. I'll see you in a few weeks with a focus on December 2023 events around November 10.

Until then, thank you for the gift of your time.

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ABOUT LEEP CALENDAR: LEEP Calendar (https://www.leepcalendar.com) is a soon-to-launch web-based application of over 10,000 events, holidays, and anniversaries designed around the needs of professional marketers and editorial departments, created by marketing and editorial veteran LD Lewis.

Follow us on X @promocalendar and via our LinkedIn page, https://www.linkedin.com/company/leep-publishing

Last updated: Dec 1st 2023