The amount of festivals there are globally is mind-blowing but most are limited to a certain age group. Children, and parents, are also looking for ways to have fun together in an environment that is safe for everyone.
7 Family-Friendly Festivals In The USA That Your Kids Will Love
Photo credit: Katrina Barber (Lollapalooza 2016)
Lucky enough, there are festivals that have transformed to allow children to experience something different. These select festivals based in the United States will allow the parents to let loose as they listen to their favorite musicians and also please children with the many activities catered to them.
Outside Lands
Where: San Francisco, CA
When: August
Considered one of the best music festivals in California, with global performers, like Janet Jackson or Florence + The Machine, finger-licking foods and art galleries, Outside Lands is a festival catered to all ages. Right at the Golden Gate Park, you will be able to boast about the killer performances while eating local foods with live paintings going on as well. It might sound overwhelming but it is definitely possible to do at once. Outside Lands also supports sustainability as the festival is home to Eco Lands which is an organization that sets up eco-friendly activities for all ages. Kids, and adults, can learn how to make the environment a cleaner place.
Lollapalooza
Where: Chicago, IL
When: August
Once considered as an alternative rock festival, Lollapalooza has slowly transformed into a family-friendly space. Right in the heart of Chicago, the festival brings in top performers that will make it a memorable experience. Those with kids won’t have to worry about their little ones getting hurt in the crowd as there is a specific section for them to rock out as well. Kidzapalooza has its own stage with different activities like karaoke, photo shoots and crafts. Not only that, children that are 10 and under get in for free with their parents.
Lightning in a Bottle
Where: Bradley, CA
When: May
Lightning in a Bottle can be referred to as the new Woodstock but with its own quirk. The festival bases itself on the concept of sustainability, wellness, music, art and cultural offering. It is definitely a festival where you will be able to learn much more than you expected as it will open your mind to new ideas. Children are also able to join in on the experience since it is open to all ages. The Lightning in a Bottle team even made a Facebook group for families to connect with one another because here, it’s all about loving one another.
Joshua Tree Music Festival
Where: Joshua Tree, CA
When: May
The Joshua Tree Music Festival is the perfect festival to enjoy as a family. It has described itself as a “family-friendly global music experience” and can definitely back up its proclamation. Along with its vast variety of musicians and bands from all corners of the world, it also has activities specifically for children. While you are jamming out to your favorite band, kids can spend time at Kidsville which includes face painting, magic and improvisation shows, arts and crafts and a ton more.
MusikFest
Where: Bethlehem, PA
When: August
If you’re looking for a free, non-gated music festival, MusikFest is calling your name. In this 10-day festival, you can jam out to artists from different genres and taste the different flavors of the many food vendors. Children will also have a blast in the Spark Orthodontic Kinderplatz that has games, music and kid-friendly food. This is the perfect festival for families to spend their time together if they’re on a budget.
Bumbershoot
Where: Seattle, WA
When: September
Right when the summer is ending, Bumbershoot is here to keep the energy going. For families in the Pacific Northwest, this is the perfect festival to go to that offers music, food, art and much more. With national and regional performances, kids will also get to enjoy themselves with hands-on activities and interactive programs in a separate area just for them called Youngershoot. Children ages 10 and under also get in for free.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Where: New Orleans, LA
When: April
An unforgettable way to roll in the summer is with the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. The 10-day culture fest has a large variety of music, like jazz, funk, Caribbean and blues, that perform on the multiple stages throughout the location. It also showcases the cultural heritage of New Orleans with its cuisine, craft stands and much more. For those wanting to get comfortable, foldable chairs, soft coolers and strollers are allowed in the festival.
