World's Coolest Music Festivals

Joe Yogerst July 26, 2007

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See our slideshow of the World’s Coolest Music Festivals

According to San Diego Union-Tribune music critic George Varga, who’s been attending festivals since 1970, the controversial Woodstock revival in 1999 proved the death knell for huge, chaotic, storm-the-fences events. “Festivals tend to be smaller and more contained these days, with a much sharper focus. You basically have two kinds of festivals – events like Ozzfest that are designed purely for a specific audience and festivals that appeal to a wide variety of musical tastes like Austin City Limits."

Varga notes that the current formula consists of a half-dozen big names each day as well as dozens of smaller acts that reflect regional music and generally lesser well-known. “Big acts draw the crowds, who are then exposed to all of this great music they wouldn't otherwise hear.”

Given the growing popularity of the best fests, it’s advisable to book your tickets, hotel and airfare at least a year in advance. Although online ticket clearinghouses often hawk festival tickets, the best course is usually the festival web site. Some festivals now offer combined ticket, accommodation and/or transportation packages that can range from something as simple as a ferry ride and a camping permit for the Isle of Wight, to round-trip airfare and a luxury hotel suite in Morocco. If you’re going a la carte, it’s always advisable to sleep within walking distance of the festival grounds. If that’s not possible, avoid traffic hassles by pre-arranging private transport to and from the events.

“If fans are planning to attend a festival, I would recommend finding out as much as you can about it [beforehand],” says Fletcher. “Have a designated spot to meet up with friends in case you get separated, be prepared for some delays—no need to get stressed out if traffic is a little slow. Dress in layers as weather may go from very hot in the day to cool in the evenings, bring sunscreen and for God’s sake, wear comfortable shoes!”

Varga has his own advice for getting the most out of a music festival: “Be open to music you don’t know. Follow your ears and experience the thrill of discovering something completely new or different. And when you’re at a festival with multiple stages and performers, relax and don't try to see it all. Think small, mark down a few things you really want to hear, and leave time for wandering around.”

We’ve scoured the globe to uncover ten of today’s coolest yearly music festivals, plus some of the best places to stay and insider tips on tickets and transportation. Enjoy.

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