Summer Festivals to Explore This June
Summer is here, and that means festival season is in full swing! From small-town celebrations to big city events, summer festivals are the perfect excuse to get outside, soak up the sunshine, and experience something new. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, amazing food, or quirky local traditions, there’s a festival out there with your name on it.
Kick Off Summer with These June Festivals
1. National Cherry Festival – Traverse City, MI
If you love cherries (or just great summer vibes), this festival is a must! Held along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, you’ll find everything from cherry pie-eating contests to airshows and live music. Pro tip: Grab a scoop of cherry ice cream and enjoy a sunset over Grand Traverse Bay.
2. Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival – Manchester, TN
Music lovers, this one’s for you! Bonnaroo is four days of non-stop music, camping, and fun—think everything from indie rock to EDM under the Tennessee sky. Not into camping? No problem! There are day passes so you can enjoy the music without roughing it.
3. Oregon Strawberry Festival – Lebanon, OR
A festival dedicated to strawberries? Yes, please! This small-town gem has parades, fresh strawberry shortcake, and even a strawberry queen. It’s the perfect mix of delicious and delightful.
4. Telluride Bluegrass Festival – Telluride, CO
Picture this: incredible bluegrass music set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. This legendary festival draws music fans from all over, and the views alone are worth the trip. Pack a blanket, find a spot on the grass, and let the music (and mountain air) work their magic.
5. Scandinavian Midsummer Festival – Estes Park, CO
Love history, culture, and a good flower crown? This festival is all about celebrating Scandinavian heritage with Viking reenactments, folk dancing, and the raising of a giant maypole. Plus, you’ll find incredible Nordic pastries—because every great festival involves food.
6. Louisiana Catfish Festival – Des Allemands, LA
Yes, a festival dedicated to catfish is a thing, and it’s amazing. Expect plenty of Southern charm, crispy fried catfish, and lively Cajun music in this small Louisiana town. It’s a local favorite for a reason!
7. Blanco Lavender Festival – Blanco, TX
Held in the “Lavender Capital of Texas,” this charming festival celebrates all things lavender in early June. Stroll through fragrant fields, sip on lavender lemonade, and shop handmade lavender goods from local artisans. Plus, with live music, wine tastings, and small-town charm, it’s the perfect way to kick off summer!
8. Juneteenth Music Festival – Philadelphia, PA
This vibrant festival, held in mid-June, celebrates Black culture, history, and music with live performances, a parade, art exhibits, and incredible food. The event brings together local and national artists across genres like jazz, hip-hop, and R&B, creating an energetic and uplifting atmosphere. With cultural vendors, educational experiences, and a strong community spirit, it’s a powerful way to honor Juneteenth while enjoying a weekend full of music and celebration.
Make It a Festival-Filled June
Whether you’re looking for music, food, culture, or just an excuse for a road trip, June is packed with amazing festivals waiting to be explored. So grab your sunglasses, your sense of adventure, and a few friends—summer fun is calling!
P.S. Love celebrating where you’ve been? Check out my collection of hand-drawn town and state prints—perfect for remembering your favorite festival adventures!
