Top 10 Most Popular Festivals Across the United States in June 2025

List of Festivals in the U.S 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street, and More

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June marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States, and with it comes a wave of celebrations that span music, food, art, culture, and community. From iconic music festivals in New York and Tennessee to quirky county fairs and cultural events in small towns, June is packed with reasons to get outside and gather.

This guide dives deep into the top 10 biggest and most talked-about festivals in the U.S. during June 2025. Each listing includes detailed highlights, must-see attractions, fun facts, and planning tips.

Read more: Top 10 Biggest Holidays in the U.S. in June 2025

10 Biggest Festivals in the US in June 2025

1. Governors Ball Music Festival

Date: June 6–8, 2025

Location: Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, New York City

Genre: Multi-genre Music

Expected Attendance: 150,000+

As one of NYC's signature summer events, Governors Ball delivers a multi-day sensory overload. From the iconic skyline backdrop to gourmet food trucks and diverse music acts, it's a cultural melting pot in motion. The 2025 lineup includes genre-defying artists such as Olivia Rodrigo, Tyler, the Creator, Hozier, and Ice Spice, drawing massive crowds. Three massive stages offer non-stop music from noon till night, and between sets, festivalgoers explore art installations, photo booths, and pop-up lounges. Food is a huge part of the experience, with over 60 local vendors offering everything from Korean BBQ tacos to vegan donuts. Governors Ball also embraces sustainability, offering refill stations and recycling incentives. Insider tip: Grab VIP passes for faster entry and private viewing areas. For tourists, it’s a great excuse to explore Queens, including the nearby Queens Museum and Citi Field.

2. Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival

Date: June 12–15, 2025

Location: Great Stage Park, Manchester, Tennessee

Genre: Multi-genre Music, Art, Comedy, Wellness

Expected Attendance: 70,000+

Bonnaroo is more than a music festival—it’s an immersive experience. Set on a sprawling 700-acre farm, Bonnaroo turns into a temporary city with themed campsites, late-night dance parties, and even yoga at sunrise. Headliners in 2025 include Foo Fighters, Megan Thee Stallion, ODESZA, and Leon Bridges. Beyond the main stage, the "Other" stage hosts EDM acts into the early hours, while the comedy tent and cinema tent offer alternatives for downtime. The vibe here is chill, inclusive, and vibrant. Attendees are encouraged to bring costumes, participate in parades, and leave no trace. Bonnaroo is known for its community-driven culture: you’ll meet strangers who feel like old friends. Make sure to catch the Silent Disco and visit Planet Roo, a sustainability village with workshops and local nonprofits. Camping is part of the adventure, with options ranging from car camping to glamping domes.

Read more: June 2025 US Calendar: Full List of Holidays, Festivals, Events & Celebrations

3. CMA Fest

Date: June 5–8, 2025

Location: Nashville, Tennessee

Genre: Country Music

Expected Attendance: 80,000+

CMA Fest

CMA Fest is the ultimate celebration of country music, held in the heart of Nashville, the genre's spiritual home. Spanning four days, the festival offers both free and ticketed events across downtown, including the iconic Nissan Stadium, Ascend Amphitheater, and intimate stages along Broadway. The 2025 lineup features Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson, and rising stars from the CMA’s emerging artist program. It’s a paradise for fans with exclusive meet-and-greets, songwriter sessions, and live radio tapings. The CMA Foundation, which supports music education, benefits from proceeds—making your attendance feel even better. The festival also includes Fan Fair X, a massive indoor expo with artist booths, photo ops, and acoustic sets. Plan for hot, sunny days and make time to explore Nashville’s legendary honky-tonks, museums, and BBQ joints.

4. Summer Game Fest

Date: June 6–8, 2025

Location: Los Angeles, California

Genre: Video Games, Tech, Pop Culture

Expected Attendance: Industry Professionals + Thousands Online

Summer Game Fest is the most exciting gaming event of the season, merging live shows, playable demos, and exclusive trailers. Unlike traditional expos, SGF combines physical and digital experiences, with global streaming and in-person presentations. In 2025, Geoff Keighley returns as host, bringing news from Xbox, PlayStation, Ubisoft, and indie developers. This is where blockbuster franchises drop first looks and surprise updates. Fans can test new titles, attend panels with developers, and connect through cosplay meetups and game jams. For those unable to attend, interactive digital hubs will stream announcements and virtual booths. Expect major reveals, hands-on demos, and lots of merch. Gamers planning a visit should also check out LA’s nearby arcades, tech lounges, and food truck hubs for post-event hangouts.

5. Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival

Date: June 14–15, 2025

Location: Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles, California

Genre: Jazz

Expected Attendance: 17,500+ per day

For jazz lovers, few settings rival the Hollywood Bowl. The Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival—formerly the Playboy Jazz Festival—is two nights of world-class performances under the stars. Expect legends like Herbie Hancock, Norah Jones, and contemporary artists blending jazz with soul, funk, and world music. With a capacity of over 17,000, the Bowl provides stunning acoustics and a magical ambiance, especially during sunset. Guests often bring picnic baskets and wine, making for a relaxing yet elegant night. The festival supports the LA Philharmonic’s youth programs, and the crowd is a welcoming mix of seasoned jazz aficionados and newcomers. Arrive early to avoid traffic and enjoy pre-show entertainment around the venue. If you’re visiting from out of town, take time to explore nearby Griffith Park and the Hollywood Hills.

6. Mountain Jam

Date: June 20–22, 2025

Location: Belleayre Mountain, Highmount, New York

Genre: Rock, Jam Bands, Folk

Expected Attendance: 40,000+

Nestled in the Catskill Mountains, Mountain Jam offers an intimate yet electric vibe. Originally inspired by a song from The Allman Brothers Band, the festival embraces improvisational rock, Americana, and grassroots music. The 2025 roster includes Khruangbin, Mt. Joy, Goose, and indie-folk crossovers like The Lone Bellow. Set against forested hills, the setting is as much a draw as the lineup. Attendees can hike, camp, or take ski lifts for panoramic views between sets. Artisan markets, farm-to-table vendors, and wellness tents add to the community-driven experience. If you’re a jam-band devotee or looking to disconnect and groove with nature, this is your festival. Pro tip: arrive early for prime camping spots and sunset views.

7. National Cherry Festival

Date: June 28 – July 5, 2025

Location: Traverse City, Michigan

Genre: Food, Family, Culture

Expected Attendance: 500,000+

Celebrating Michigan’s cherry harvest, this week-long festival is one of the Midwest’s most beloved summer traditions. From cherry pit-spitting contests to cherry pie-eating championships, every event revolves around the region’s signature fruit. Traverse City transforms into a red-and-white wonderland, complete with parades, air shows by the Blue Angels, craft markets, and live concerts. Highlights include the Cherry Royale Parade, orchard tours, and nightly fireworks over Grand Traverse Bay. The vibe is 100% family-friendly with kid zones, pancake breakfasts, and carnival rides. It's also a celebration of agriculture and local pride, with farmers, bakers, and crafters taking center stage. Don’t miss the cherry BBQ sauces and jams for souvenirs.

8. El Dorado County Fair

Date: June 13–16, 2025

Location: Placerville, California

Genre: County Fair

Expected Attendance: 65,000

A charming slice of Americana, the El Dorado County Fair blends small-town spirit with family fun. Located in the Sierra foothills, this fair showcases livestock, crafts, homegrown produce, and live bluegrass. Unique features include the John M. Studebaker Championship Wheelbarrow Races, classic car shows, and wine tasting pavilions highlighting regional vineyards. Kids love the petting zoos and midway games, while adults enjoy demolition derbies and the beer garden. It’s the kind of event where you can win a blue ribbon for pie baking or ride a mechanical bull. The fair reflects California’s rich agricultural heritage and strong community roots.

9. Ridgefield Pride in the Park

Date: June 1, 2025

Location: Ballard Park, Ridgefield, Connecticut

Genre: LGBTQ+ Pride, Community

Expected Attendance: Local community event

Ridgefield Pride in the Park

Small but mighty, Ridgefield’s Pride in the Park kicks off Pride Month with music, joy, and inclusivity. Organized by local nonprofits, the event features live performances, art booths, local food trucks, and guest speakers advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. It’s less about commercial glitz and more about grassroots pride. Families, allies, and queer creatives gather in a safe and colorful environment, often featuring drag shows, storytimes, and educational panels. It's a great reminder that Pride is just as powerful in small towns as it is in big cities. Perfect for a day trip, and visitors often explore the local galleries and historic Main Street after the festivities.

10. World Checkers Festival

Date: June 26 – July 4, 2025

Location: Vidor, Texas

Genre: Board Games, International Competition

Expected Attendance: 10,000+

This might be the quirkiest entry on our list, but it’s also one of the most unique. The World Checkers Festival in Vidor, Texas is a week-long celebration of the classic strategy game. Players from across the globe, including South Africa and the UK, come to compete in tournaments like the DuGood USA Nationals and Blitz Championship. Spectators can also enjoy checker-themed art, local cuisine, and even workshops on strategy and history. It’s a niche event with a loyal following—and an opportunity to witness the global appeal of simple, elegant gameplay. Whether you play casually or competitively, the camaraderie and chess-like tension make it unexpectedly thrilling.

Notable Smaller Festivals in June 2025

• Aspen Food & Wine Classic – Aspen, CO: A luxurious culinary gathering featuring celebrity chefs, world-class sommeliers, and foodies from across the globe. Expect gourmet tastings, wine seminars, and a stunning mountain backdrop.

• Telluride Bluegrass Festival – Telluride, CO: Set in a scenic canyon, this bluegrass and folk music fest draws legends and newcomers alike. Perfect for fans of acoustic storytelling and mountain vibes.

• FIGMENT NYC – New York, NY: A free, participatory arts event on Governors Island. Visitors can interact with installations, performances, and workshops focused on creativity and collaboration.

• Honfest – Baltimore, MD: A celebration of all things kitschy and vintage in Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood. Features beehive hair competitions, local music, and retro fashion.

• Greek Festival – Chicago, IL: Taste authentic Mediterranean cuisine, watch traditional Greek dancing, and explore cultural exhibits at this popular ethnic celebration.

• Westword Music Showcase – Denver, CO: A mix of indie, hip-hop, and electronic acts across multiple venues. A strong showcase for Denver's buzzing music scene.

FAQs

Q: What should I pack for a summer music festival in the U.S.?

A: Essentials include sunscreen, reusable water bottle, hat, portable phone charger, comfy shoes, lightweight clothes, and a rain poncho just in case.

Q: Are festivals family-friendly?

A: Many are! The National Cherry Festival, El Dorado County Fair, and Ridgefield Pride are great for families. Others may be better suited for adults or older teens—check the festival’s website for guidelines.

Q: How can I find local lodging or camping?

A: Major festivals usually partner with nearby hotels or offer official camping options. Booking early is key, especially in small towns with limited accommodations.

Q: What’s the best way to travel to festivals?

A: Many festivals offer shuttle services from major cities or parking lots. For rural festivals, driving is often easiest. Always check traffic and road conditions in advance.

Q: Are there any apps that help with festival planning?

A: Yes! Try apps like Festivall, Songkick, or the official app of the festival itself for schedules, maps, artist updates, and real-time alerts.

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