Music Festivals of 2025: Tips for Top Events

As summer is set to return, music festivals across the globe are set to come back bigger and stronger than ever. With packed lineups, international crowds, and new technology, the way that fans experience live music is set to be more exciting than ever. This year’s lineup offers something for everyone’s taste from major pop stars to underground DJs.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Glastonbury, Coachells, or Sziget, preparation is key. Here’s a look at the upcoming events and how you can make the most out of what’s on offer.

How Technology is Changing Festivals

In recent years, technology has had a major impact on the music industry as a whole. This has spread across festivals and it is now having an effect on this experience too. The likes of mobile ticketing, smart wristbands, and schedule-tracking apps are now standard, but 2025 is seeing a push into more interactive territory. Some festivals are even exploring the use of a minigames api to create the likes of digital scavenger hunts, trivia games, and on-site challenges. These are about prizes as well as fun, with the likes of drink tokens, early access, and merchandise up for grabs.

This gamification trend helps fans to engage with brands and sponsors without the need to stand in long queues. It also opens up new ways for independent developers to contribute interaction elements to festivals. This enhances the live experience by taking beyond just merely watching a performance.

Festival Highlights of the Year

There’s a packed calendar this year, and here’s a look at just some of what’s in store:

Glastonbury, UK, June 25-29

One of the most famous festivals is set to return with a mix of legacy artists and up and coming acts. The lineup is set to include The 1975, Olivia Rodrigo, Rod Stewart, and more. The festival’s legendary size and variety means that planning beforehand is a must. Be sure to download the official app and decide which stages you are going to prioritise. The reality is that you will never be able to see all that Glastonbury has to offer.

Coachella, California, April 11-13 & 18-20

Over in California, Coachella is one of the most influential festivals in the world. Stars such as Lady Gaga, Post Malone, and Travis Scott are set to headline, but art and fashion are set to be huge draws too. If this is the festival you’re planning to attend, be prepared for high temperatures, long days, and big crowds. Arriving early and staying hydrated is a must.

Tomorrowland, Belgium, July 18-20 & 25-27

This is the festival for electronic music fans, and is the one that sets the global standard. Themed ‘Orbyz’ this year, the festival is set to feature top DJs such as Martin Garrix and Armin Van Buuren. This is also one of the most visually stunning festivals with elaborate stage setups and immersive light shows to enjoy.

Primavera Sound, Barcelona, June 5-7

Primavera Sound in Barcelona maintains its reputation for eclectic, high-quality music. Artists this year will include Charli XCX, LCD Soundsystem, and Chappel Roan. The pace at this festival is slightly more relaxed, with many acts starting later in the evening. This makes it hugely popular for fans who enjoy nightlife energy rather than camping vibes.

Lollapalooza, Chicago, July 31 – August 3

There’s great excitement building around this festival as it’s set to bring together Olivia Rodrigo, Tyler, the Creator, and A$AP Rocky. Set in Grant Park, this event spans over four days and eight stages. Perhaps the standout feature here is the great location. Unlike many other festivals, Lollapalooza is in the heart of the city, with hotels and restaurants nearby.

Sziget, Budapest, August 6-11

Here, there is a full week of music on offer. Headliners for 2025 are A$AP Rocky, Charli XCX, and Shawn Mendes. The length of the festival means that it becomes as much about lifestyle as music. Many people attending mix late nights with child days at art installations, yoga sessions, or film screenings.

Wireless, London, July 11-13

With a focus on hip hop and R&B, you’ll find Drake, Burna Boy, and Vybz Kartel leading the lineup. There’s no camping here as it’s a city-based event. That means heading home or to hotels overnight. While this makes it accessible to those looking to avoid tents and mud, it can also get a little expensive.

How Live Games Are Gaining Ground

Away from the music itself, festival culture continues to borrow from sectors such as gaming and live entertainment. There are now some independent areas within festivals that include sections that are focused on digital play. This goes beyond VR and also covers live-hosted games and audience-driven competitions.

One company that could become a name in this field is Live88, a live games developer. Its offering of interactive experiences and real-time play would be a perfect match for what these areas are now offering.

Final Tips for Festival Success

When you’ve decided which festival you’re set to attend, here are some final tips to make the most of the experience:

• Pack for unpredictability: Even the summer can bring rain, especially in the UK. A poncho weighs next to nothing and can save the day.
• Stay connected: Festival apps are essential, but save maps and schedules offline in case of any issues with signals.
• Respect the space: Leave no space. Take your rubbish, use the toilets properly, and keep the grounds clear.
• Try something new: Don’t just stick to the main stage. Some of the best experiences can come by unexpectedly stumbling across something in quiet corners of the festival site.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 festival season is set to be bigger and more exciting than ever. With so much to see and experience, planning is key to making the most of this. Whether heading to the UK, visiting the US, or enjoying European offerings, the lineups are sensational, and there is sure to be something for all tastes.