Without a doubt, music festivals in Southern California are legit the best. There are so many reasons why people flock to this region of the country for festivals, but perhaps the biggest reason is the sheer variety of events that take place here in our home of SoCal. From Just Like Heaven to Ohana, and concerts at the Hollywood Bowl, there is truly something for everyone when it comes to live music in SoCal.
Not to mention, the weather is always perfect for outdoor events here in Southern California. You can enjoy great tunes, good food and drinks, and a fun atmosphere without worrying about getting too hot or too cold (for the most part). And let’s not forget about the amazing artists who come to perform here – everyone from up-and-coming indie bands to big-name pop stars can be found playing at these festivals.
Please note: This post may contain affiliate links.
And while we’d love to gatekeep our favorite music festivals, we also want others to experience just how great these 10 summer music festivals are, or will be (some are new!). Because if you think Coachella is the best, you’re truly mistaken (or going to music festivals for all the wrong reasons).
Overall, there’s just something special about live music in Southern California that makes it an experience you won’t forget! This is why were are home to the best and most diverse music festival in the Nation. See for yourself below.
1. Just Like Heaven
When: May 12, 2023
Where: Brookside Park at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, CA
Who’s Performing: Yeah Yeah Yeahs, MGMT, Future Islands, Empire of The Sun, M83, Hot Chip, Fever Ray, Peaches, The Sounds The Hives, The Faint & a lot more.
Why We Love Just Like Heaven: Another favorite of ours, dance-punk and electro-pop is alive and well at Just Like Heaven. Each time we attend this festival, it’s always one of our favorite music festival experiences of the year, boasting a throwback indie lineup that makes you fawn over the days you’d burn a mixed CD for your crush. Talk about Aughts nostalgia!
Tickets to Just Like Heaven are still available! Grab them before they’re gone!
2. .Paak House
When: May, 12, 2023
Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds
Who’s Performing: that’s the fun part; it’s a SURPRISE!
Why We Love .Paak House: It’s all bout the element of surprise at .Paak House. And judging by past guest performances (Seth Rogen, Kali Uchis, and many others), .Paak House promises to be an exciting affair. Attendees can expect unexpected collaborations and special appearances by renowned artists. Not to mention, you get that epic coastal breeze at the Ventura Country Fairgrounds.
The .Paak House Festival raises funds to support community initiatives, providing assistance to over 3200 families and 10,000 individuals with basic necessities like hygiene care, food, clothing, and school supplies. The festival remains committed to prioritizing the well-being of families in the community.
Get your .Paak House tickets now!
3. The Palm Tree Music Festival
When: May 13, 2023
Where: Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, CA
Who’s Performing: Kygo, Ellie Goulding, Tove Lo, The Midnight, The Knocks, & a lot more.
Why?: Similar to BeachLife festival, The Palm Tree Music Festival will also take place on the sand boasting some epic ocean views. With a focus on dance music, luxury and tropical vibes — Palm Tree is also a great choice for those that prefer a 1-day festival as opposed to a weekend bender!
Tickets are on sale now, grab them before they disappear into the rabbit hole.
4. Cruel World
When: May 20, 2023
Where: Brookside Park at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, CA
Who’s Performing: Siouxsie and The Banshees, Iggy Pop, Billy Idol, Love and Rockets, Adam Ant, Echo & The Bunnymen, Molchat Doma, The Soft Moon & a lot more.
Why?: Since it’s inception in 2022 (announced in 2020, but we all know what stopped live music that year…), Cruel World has stood firm as one of the best niche music festivals, if not the best. Truly a Gen X’ers and old-er Millenial’s dream, especially for early goths and punks.
This year’s lineup has us falling to our knees, yelling, “we are not worthy!” 2023 marks Siouxsie’s first North American performance in 15 years. The legendary Iggy Pop, the writer of “The Passenger,” famously covered by Siouxsie, will also be performing. AND! Love and Rockets are making a grand return to the stage as the band last performed together in 2008.
5. Re: SET
When: Various dates starting June 2, 2023
Where: Los Angeles, San Diego, the Bay Area, Atlanta, Chicago, New York, and more cities
Who’s Performing: LCD Soundsystem, Steve Lacy, Boygenius, Clairo and more
Why?: This summer, Re:SET, a new version of the summer concert experience, will be making its way to 12 cities across the U.S. Featuring LCD Soundsystem, boygenius, and Steve Lacy as headliners — Re:SET will take place in Los Angeles, San Diego, the Bay Area, Atlanta, Chicago, New York, and more cities. Each headliner will perform on a different date and bring with them their own curation of opening acts. It’s a fresh and new take on the music festival experience, and we’re excited for it!
Get your tickets here if you’re attending Re:SET in Los Angeles, CA, San Diego, CA, the Bay Area, CA, Grand Prairie, TX, Columbus Ohio, Columbia, MD, and Forest Hills, New York.
For all other cities, grab your tickets here.
6. Splash House
When: June 9-11, 2023
Where: Three different pool resorts in Palm Springs
Who’s Performing: Armand Van Helen, Chromeo, Purple Disco Machine and more.
Why We Love Splash House: In recent years, Splash House has revolutionized the summer festival scene by creating a personalized experience in the beautiful surroundings of Palm Springs. With exceptional music curation and a loyal following, it has become a staple event in the dance community. The June lineup for Splash House features a talented selection of artists who have created unforgettable moments over the past ten years.
One of the reasons why Splash House is a favored event among the dance community is due to the convenience and comfort it offers. Every package includes festival tickets, a three-night accommodation at any of the three host resorts, and shuttle service to different venues.
Get your tickets to Splash House!
7. Day Trip
When: June 24-25, 2023
Where: Queen Mary Waterfront in Long Beach
Who’s Performing: Duke Dumont, Cid, Dom Dolla, Beltran and more.
Why We Love Day Trip: Because it’s non-stop house music! The Day Trip Festival’s 2023 lineup features an impressive group of artists who have contributed to the infectious success of house music. These artists have either originated from the classic Chicago scene or emerged in recent years with chart-topping tracks.
Robin S., who gained international recognition in the early 1990s for her hit song “Show Me, Love,” will represent the roots of house music to the modern Day Trip audience. Additionally, Mr. V and Ron Carroll will also contribute to this representation during their respective performances.
As with other festivals on this list, you can’t beat the perfect temps at the Queen Mary Waterfront. All ab out those coastal breezes!
Get your tickets to Day Trip music fest!
8. Bleached Fest
When: Aug. 5-6, 2023
Where: Waterfront Park San Diego
Who’s Performing: Caroline Polachek, Cannons, Yves Tumor, Remi Wolf, Ethel Cain, Joji, Leon Bridges, Omar Apollo, PinkPantheress
Why We Love Bleached Fest: If you’re looking for a fresh and new music experience, the debut of Bleached Music Fest at Waterfront Park San Diego is definitely worth attending. With an incredible lineup showcasing a diverse range of musical genres, you’re sure to find something that speaks to your soul. The festival’s atmosphere on the Waterfront in San Diego should be cool (both temp and vibes), with a community of music lovers coming together to share in the joy of great music.
Get your tickets before they sell out!
9. HARD Summer
When: Aug. 5-6, 2023
Where: LA Memorial Coliseum – Exposition Park – BMO Stadium
Who’s Performing: Kaskade, Skrillex, Four Tet, Black Coffee, Gorgon City, and more
Why We Love HARD Summer: HARD Summer festival’s lineup for 2023 stays true to its diverse approach and dedication to showcasing up-and-coming talent, solidifying its reputation as one of the most exciting festivals in the nation. Attendees can look forward to the return of established artists who have helped shape HARD’s innovative programming alongside notable hip-hop headliners, respected underground icons, and promising newcomers to the scene.
Guests can easily use LA Metro for transportation to and from the event. Delicious food from renowned vendors at Coliseum Torch is available, and official afterparties in top-tier LA venues are arranged for a complete city takeover.
Get your tickets if you are ready to party!
Please note: This post may contain affiliate links.
10. Ohana Fest
When: Sept. 29 – Oct. 1, 2023
Where: Doheny State Beach
Who’s Performing: The Killers, Eddie Vedder, The Chicks, Japanese Breakfast, and more.
Why We Love Ohana: Ohana Music Festival is undoubtedly one of the best music festivals in Southern California because it offers a unique experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. The festival takes place at Doheny State Beach, which provides a stunning backdrop for the performances. The festival also offers a diverse lineup of musicians, ranging from classic rock bands to indie artists, which means that there’s something for everyone.
The atmosphere at Ohana Music Festival is always friendly and welcoming, super laid-back similar to its neighboring beach towns in South Orange County and North San Diego, making it a great place to meet new people and just vibe. And since it’s a beachside music festival, you get that amazing ocean breeze.
Ticket options are already selling out! Grab your tickets to Ohana while you can!
BONUS: Beachlife
Beachlife 2023 popped off last weekend, and it was epic! While we featured it in our Spring edition of the best music festivals in Southern California, we had to add it here again to remind you guys for next year. It sold-out this year, but DO NOT miss out on Beachlife in 2024. Truly an incredible experience! Just read our festival review for how epic it was this year!
More Music Festivals We Love
Check out our favorite Southern California music festivals in the Winter and Spring.
