The list of US music festivals spans into the thousands, but we've cut it down to our top 5 absolutely must see, life altering musical events.
Here they are for your listening pleasure:
5. Bonnaroo Music Festival
Combine the sounds of rock and roll, jazz, Americana, hip-hop and electronica with some silent disco, a slice of comedy and a splash of beer and you have the makings of one of America's most loved music festivals; the Bonnaroo Music Festival.
Its setting on a remote 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee, means speakers pumped up so loud, you can't hear yourself think.
Rolling Stone magazine described it as an experience that changed the face of rock and roll; personally, I'd refer to it as a four-day bender of awesome entertainment, endless drinks and a festive, but chillaxed atmosphere! Rock on.
4. New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival
No great list of American music festivals is complete without a mention of this all-American, all-Southern music festival.
Easily home to the richest music heritage in America, New Orleans puts on a show of funky music, unique artistic talent while serving up plenty of down home Southern cooking. Attracting big names including Aretha Franklin and Bob Dylan, this Southern festival is a must if you want to experience "all that jazz!"
3. All Points West Music and Arts Festival
The very best of the music and art worlds come together at the All Points West Music and Arts Festival to create an ear pleasing mash-up of entertainment, excitement and non-stop enjoyment. Combining the African influenced sounds of Vampire Weekend, with the dance beats of The Yeah Yeah Yeah's and the soft crooning of Coldplay, there's guaranteed to be something here to please everyone's musical taste.
2. Summerfest
Plain and simple this is "The World's Largest Music Festival". Spanning 11 days, boasting 11 stages and playing host to over 700 performers, this is the ultimate in "big gigs". Featuring huge headline acts like Dolly Parton, Bon Jovi, Britney Spears and Rod Stewart, you'll be holding your lighter high in celebration for close to two full weeks.
1. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
Our pick for America's best music festival, Coachella will rock your socks off, blast your eardrums, and amuse your eyes for three scorching hot days of non stop rocking.
Sweat it out while you become acquainted with the likes of Groove Armada, Madonna, Animal Collective and Girl Talk. While you are in this Oasis you will enjoy a Massive Attack of excitement that will make you pull out your Nine Inch Nails in pure ecstasy. Heaven!
- Chrissy