whenever you hear of American music festivals there’s probably some part of you that screams Coachella. What if I told you that our beautiful continent has a bit more to offer in regards to music festivals than just the notorious giant. I’ve never actually attended Coachella but fortunately I have had the opportunity to attend or book for a few other festivals in the United States and Canada, these are the ones I’m most excited for this summer.

Bumbershoot

Obviously starting with my favorite festival of all time, Bumbershoot. This Labor Day weekend event is held every year at the Seattle center. This year from the 30th-1st of September. The festival has been going strong since 1971 with no signs of letting up. Multiple stages spread across the 74 acre lot accompanied by vendors, lounges and beautiful displays. This poster is for last years event but if this year is anything like the previous ones, you won’t want to miss it. Keep on the look out for lineup and ticket releases. See you there!

Boston Calling

Boston Calling, held in Allston on the Harvard grounds has been killin it since 2013, hosting main stage acts such as Chance the Rapper, Major Lazor and Jack White. The 3 day festival boasts huge talent this year as well as vendors and a handfull of comedians. Three day GA passes are selling for $289 on the festivals website. Better hurry!

Shambhala

Founded in 1998 the Shambhala festival has grown to be one of the largest and longest running EDM fests in Canada. Held at Salmo River Ranch in British Columbia it hosts 6 stages and too many noteworthy DJs to count. This year it falls from August 9th-12th. Tickets are on sale now for $450 general admission which includes parking and tent camping. Can’t wait!

Mo Pop

Mo Pop is another festival that has been making waves in the music scene since 2013. Described as “boutique and niche” it hosts a number of large names in the industry as well as great food. Taking place this year on July 27th and 28th at the Detroit riverfront, showcasing impressive names such as Vampire weekend and Tame impala, you won’t want to miss it. Tickets are on sale now at mopopfestival.com

Firefly

The 3 day festival taking place Dover, Delaware isn’t exactly what you would call Lowkey. Starting it’s reign in 2012 firefly is starting to look like the king of all American festivals, hosting the biggest of the biggest in the industry. This lineup is honestly giving me goosebumps. Tickets are on sale now at fireflyfestival.com - you really don’t want to miss this.

Lukas Skye

thejackalsatlas@gmail.com