As autumn arrives in the US, the music festival scene remains as vibrant as ever. Cooler temperatures, the beauty of autumn is a time that brings with it all sorts of festivals and gigs continuing the summer’s buzz well into winter months. Visual Arts Festivals and Art in a public place happen during what is becoming an increasingly shortened period of time around winter solstice. From the sunshine shores of California down to Austin in Texas and even up into Miami, there is a music festival for every electronic music lover out there. This guide a comprehensive list of events happening all over the country this autumn. Brace yourself for some amazing music, fabulously eye-catching art installations and moments you will never forget.
September
Nocturnal Wonderland 2024
Dates: 2024 EDITION CANCELLED
Location: San Bernardino, CA
Tickets: Here
Presented by electronic powerhouse Insomniac, Nocturnal Wonderland is one of the longest-running electronic music festivals in the United States. Held in San Bernardino, California, this two-day festival transforms the Glen Helen Regional Park into a vibrant playground of luminescent art installations and pulsating beats. With more than 50 artists performing across three stages, Nocturnal Wonderland caters to fans of all electronic genres. The festival’s immersive environment, complete with stunning visuals and interactive installations, creates a magical atmosphere where music and art converge. Whether you’re a die-hard EDM fan or just looking for a unique festival experience, Nocturnal Wonderland is the perfect way to kick off the autumn festival season.
Lost Lands 2024
Dates: September 20-22, 2024
Location: Thornville, OH
Tickets: Here
If you’re a fan of bass-heavy music, Lost Lands is the ultimate destination this autumn. Curated by top electronic bass artist Excision, Lost Lands brings “the top bass music from the past 65 million years” to Legend Valley, Ohio. With over 1,000,000 watts of bass, this festival is an audio-visual spectacle that promises an intense experience. But it’s not all about the heavy drops—Lost Lands fosters a welcoming atmosphere for all EDM enthusiasts, offering a well-rounded lineup that spans various electronic subgenres. The festival’s unique dinosaur theme, complete with life-sized replicas and prehistoric vibes, adds an extra layer of fun, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to feel the earth shake beneath their feet.
Breakaway Festival
Dates: Multiple Dates in September and October
Locations: Several locations, details below
Charlotte, NC | September 27-28, 2024 | Tickets: Here
Nashville, TN | October 11-12, 2024 | Tickets: Here
Bay Area, CA | October 25-26, 2024 | Tickets: Here
Breakaway Festival has quickly become one of the fastest-growing multi-city music festivals in the United States. With events across the Midwest and now expanding to new locations like the Carolinas, Nashville, and the Bay Area, Breakaway offers a unique blend of EDM, hip-hop, and pop music. Each edition of Breakaway is tailored to its location, bringing a diverse lineup of top-tier artists to the stage. Whether you’re in Charlotte dancing under the Southern sky, enjoying the vibrant energy of Nashville, or soaking up the coastal vibes in San Francisco, Breakaway promises a weekend full of unforgettable performances and immersive experiences.
Portola Festival 2024
Dates: September 28-29, 2024
Location: San Francisco, CA
Tickets: Here
Held at the iconic Pier 80, Portola Festival is a two-day celebration of electronic and pop music in San Francisco. Known for its eclectic lineup and cutting-edge production, Portola attracts music lovers from all over the country. The festival’s location on the waterfront offers stunning views of the bay, providing a perfect backdrop for a weekend of dancing and discovery. Portola’s diverse lineup includes both mainstream and underground artists, ensuring there’s something for everyone. With its blend of music, art, and culture, Portola Festival is a must-attend event for anyone looking to experience the best of San Francisco’s vibrant music scene.
October
Austin City Limits 2024
Dates: October 4-13, 2024
Location: Austin, TX
Tickets: Here
Austin City Limits (ACL) is one of the most beloved music festivals in the United States, and for good reason. Named after the iconic PBS television series, ACL spans two weekends in the heart of Texas, bringing a diverse lineup of artists to Zilker Park. From rock and indie to country and hip-hop, ACL’s lineup is a reflection of Austin’s rich musical heritage. Beyond the music, the festival offers a variety of local food vendors, art installations, and family-friendly activities, making it an inclusive event for all ages. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, ACL provides a true taste of what makes Austin the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
III Points 2024
Dates: October 18-19, 2024
Location: Miami, FL
Tickets: Here
Returning to the vibrant neighborhood of Wynwood in Miami, III Points is a festival that blurs the lines between music, art, and technology. Known for its eclectic mix of genres, III Points brings together some of the most innovative artists in modern music, along with immersive art installations and cutting-edge technology. The festival’s commitment to showcasing both established and emerging talent makes it a discovery ground for music lovers. As you wander through the expansive festival grounds, you’ll encounter a diverse array of performances, art exhibits, and interactive experiences that reflect the cultural melting pot of Miami. III Points is not just a music festival; it’s a sensory journey that will leave you inspired long after the last beat drops.
November
EDSea
Dates: November 2-6, 2024
Location: Miami, FL (Departure)
Tickets: Here
Jump aboard EDSea, a 4-night Caribbean cruise that promises to be one of the most unique festival experiences this autumn. Departing from Miami on the Norwegian Joy, this festival-at-sea offers non-stop music from your favourite artists as you sail through the tropical paradise of the Caribbean. When you’re not tearing up the dance floor, you can explore the ship’s 15 decks, featuring specialty dining, bars, and lounges, as well as spa and slide pools. The cruise includes a stop at Bimini, Bahamas, where you can relax on pristine beaches, snorkel in coral reefs, or take part in thrilling water sports. EDSea is more than just a festival; it’s a journey that combines the best of music, adventure, and luxury, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
EDC Orlando 2024
Dates: November 8-10, 2024
Location: Orlando, FL
Tickets: Here
Under the Electric Sky, EDC Orlando invites you to celebrate life, love, art, and music. This festival is a sensory overload, where technology and nature come together to create a vibrant playground for all who attend. The stages are nothing short of spectacular, featuring stunning visuals, pyrotechnics, and performances that ignite the imagination. EDC Orlando’s lineup includes some of the biggest names in electronic music, ensuring that every moment is filled with energy and excitement. From thrilling carnival rides to immersive art installations, EDC Orlando offers a multi-dimensional experience that goes beyond just the music. Whether you’re grooving to the beats or exploring the festival’s many attractions, you’ll find yourself lost in a world where anything is possible.
Dreamstate SoCal 2024
Dates: November 22-23, 2024
Location: Long Beach, CA
Tickets: Here
Dreamstate SoCal is the ultimate destination for trance music lovers, bringing together fans from around the world to celebrate the euphoric sounds of trance. Organized by Insomniac, this two-day festival in Long Beach features a stellar lineup of international trance artists, promising a journey through uplifting melodies and driving beats. Dreamstate has become a global phenomenon, with editions in cities like San Francisco, Mexico City, and London, but its SoCal event remains the flagship. The festival’s production is nothing short of spectacular, with immersive light shows, lasers, and visuals that create a truly otherworldly experience. Whether you’re a trance veteran or new to the genre, Dreamstate SoCal offers an unparalleled musical journey that will leave you wanting more.
Autumn in the U.S. is more than just a season—it’s a time when the music festival scene truly comes alive. From the legendary stages of Austin City Limits to the cutting-edge vibes of III Points, and the unique experiences offered by events like EDSea, there’s something for everyone this fall. Whether you’re a fan of electronic music, rock, pop, or something in between, this guide has you covered. So, grab your festival gear, book your tickets, and get ready to make unforgettable memories as you explore the best music festivals the United States has to offer this autumn.
