Music Festivals Making a Comeback in 2021
Last year, everyone missed out on experiencing music festivals and seeing their favorite artists live in concert due to the pandemic. But it’s a new year and new summer, and we’re starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel! With restrictions being lifted and a few music festivals making a comeback in 2021, it’s time to enjoy shows in-person once again! However, it’s important to read the fine print and guidelines when looking to attend a concert or festival this year, as most live events require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test before entry.
To help you get back into the swing of things, bopdrop is here to be your guide for all things music! Learn more about virtual and in- person performances returning this year. Brush off your festival attire and get ready to experience the rush of hearing your favorite song or artist live once again.
ESSENCE Festival Of Culture 2021
June 25-27, 2021 & July 2-4, 2021
The ESSENCE Festival of Culture is usually held in New Orleans, during the 4th of July weekend. This year, they are hosting a two-weekend virtual experience starting the weekend of June 25-27 and ending the weekend of July 2-4. Even though they haven’t announced the headliners of 2021 yet, last year’s lineup with Bruno Mars, Patti Labelle, D Smoke, and many more should tell you that the ESSENCE Festival won’t miss a beat when it comes to unmatchable performances.
Sign up for updates on headliners and prepare to stream the event at EssenceStudios.com.
Lollapalooza
July 29 - August 1, 2021
Chicago’s most anticipated music festival is back and you won’t want to miss what Lolla has in store for you this year. Enjoy music by Foo Fighters, Post Malone, Tyler, the Creator, Miley Cyrus and more to wrap up the summer with a bang. In addition to amazing music, Lollapalooza is known for Chicago’s best eats and an experience like no other filled with unforgettable fun. Join the rest of the Lolla festival goers this year in Grant Park as Chicago’s largest music festival will be held at full capacity. Summer 2021 is all about creating memories and this iconic event will be one you won’t want to miss for the second year in a row.
Snag your tickets here and enjoy the best way to remember summertime in Chicago.
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival
September 2-5, 2021
Bonnaroo is one of the most hype music festivals of the year. In 2021, the festival will feature top-tier performers like Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, Lizzo, Tame Impala, Tyler the Creator, Lana del Rey, Phoebe Bridgers, Lil Baby, and many more! In addition to live performances, you can also check out all of the cool interactive art installations on the campgrounds. This year, Bonnaroo is hosting their first annual 5K, along with plenty of other fun things to do. The festival will be held Sept. 2-5 at the Great Stage Park in Manchester, TN.
Purchase your tickets here for a weekend where the party never ends.
Summerfest
September 2-4, 9-11, & 16-18, 2021
This three day weekend music festival is back! This year's big headliners are The Jonas Brothers, Chance the Rapper, Miley Cyrus, Dave Matthews Band, G-Eazy, Charlie Wilson, Nelly, Luke Bryan, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Chris Stapleton and many more! Summerfest will be held the weekends of Sept. 2-4, 9-11, & 16-18 at the Henry Maier Festival Park, in Milwaukee, WI.
Buy your tickets here and secure your spot to see these A-list artists live and in person!
Electric Zoo
September 3-4, 2021
The Electric Zoo Music Festival is back for all of the electronic music stans. This year’s “supernaturals” theme features performances by Alesso, Fisher, Tiesto, Duke Dumont, Galantis, and more. The festival will be held Sept. 3-5, in Randall’s Island Park in New York City, NY.
Get your tickets here to see your favorite e-artists’ in the flesh once again.
Riot Fest
September 16-19, 2021
If you like rock, hip-hop, or alternative music you will live for Riot Fest! This year's headliners are My Chemical Romance, The Smashing Pumpkins, Run the Jewels, Pixies and many other surprise guests! The music festival will be held at Douglass Park in Chicago, IL, Sept. 16-19. You won’t want to miss out on this sick weekend!
Buy your tickets here and prepare for a riot.
FireFly Music Festival
September 23-26, 2021
Whether you like Hip-Hop, Rock, EDM or Electronic music, the FireFly music festival has something for everyone. This year's headliners are Billie Eilish, The Killers, Tame Impala, Lizzo, Megan Thee Stallion, Cage the Elephant, Roddy Ricch, Machine Gun Kelly, and a bunch more surprise guests. The festival will be held at The Woodlands of Dover International Speedway in Dover, DE, Sept. 23-26.
Join the waitlist and snag your tickets here.
Additional 2021 Music Festivals to Look Forward to
The list above is just giving you a taste of what 2021 has to offer when it comes to live music. As things in the U.S. get back to normal, we are seeing more and more announcements for upcoming concerts and festivals returning. Not only is live music coming back in full swing, but the lineups and performers being announced are some for the books. Below are additional 2021 music festivals to keep on your radar as you’re planning out your next live event to attend:
Echostage | Washington DC - Starting on June 11, 2021 and continuing through 2022, Echostage is opening its doors to live music once again. Kicking things off with Zedd mid June, the lineup continues to deliver throughout the year. Get your tickets here.
Pitchfork | Chicago, IL | September 10-12, 2021 - This Chicago festival is back and better than ever as they prepare for their 2021 music festival in Union Park. Purchase a 3-day ticket or a single-day pass and enjoy a lineup to remember. Get your tickets here.
The Governors Ball | Citi Field, NYC | September 24-26, 2021 - The Governors Ball music festival is back to celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2021. Enjoy performances by headliners Billie Elish, A$AP Rocky, J Balvin, Post Malone, and more! This year you can also expect new experiences as the Gov Ball moves to a new venue in Queens. Get your tickets here.
Last year may have been dead because of COVID, but thankfully some of your favorite music festivals are making their comeback in 2021. Start planning your trips and remember to be safe when attending these music festivals (the pandemic isn’t officially over yet). Don’t forget to share your favorite songs of the weekend on bopdrop!
What music festivals are you looking forward to? Give us the details in our comments section!