It’s practically a rite of passage to take on Glastonbury, and those that do come out the other side all the better. But even as the world over sends it’s best acts and performers for an unforgettable weekend, let’s take a wider look at what the world can offer you, further afield on the festival front:
1. Coachella 2018
Dates: April 13 – 15 2018 and April 20 – 22 2018
The odds are, you’ve probably heard of this one and — even more likely — it’s at the top of your bucket list. Set in the heart of the Colorado Desert, you’re guaranteed to see some of the best acts around, and be swept up in an electrifying atmosphere. Music isn’t the only reason to hit the desert – LA’s best chefs descend on the festival and bring their culinary creations to Coachella for you to feast on. Sun cream is a must for this one.
2. Burning Man, USA
Dates: Aug 27 – Sept 04 2017
The big difference at Burning Man? ‘No spectators’ allowed — everyone has to contribute something. Once a year, 300,000 people come together to create a temporary community, celebrating the very best creativity and culture has to offer. It’s forbidden to sell stuff at the festival. The only exceptions to this rule are coffee and ice. Instead, the bartering of goods between strangers is what gives the festival a special vibe that separates it from the rest of the circuit. Another reason why it stands out from the rest? Once it’s over, you’ll never know it was there. Everything is packed up, right down to the last feather boa and pistachio shell.
3. The Rio de Janeiro Carnival – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Dates: 9 Feb – 14 Feb 2018
If you fancy a party, is there truly any place better than Rio de Janeiro during Carnvial? More than 2 million people take to the streets of Rio each day of this world famous party. To spectate, we recommend you go to Sambadrone. However, if you’re eager to get your dancing shoes on and join in on all of the carnival action, stick to the streets and go with the flow. If you’re feeling thirsty after all the fun, try a Capeta. It’s vodka, condensed milk, vanilla, guarana powder and cinnamon all shaken with ice. In a word? YUM.
4. New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Fest
Dates: April 27 – May 6 2018
Sip on a giant iced-tea (rosemint, mandarin orange or regular) while listening to an eclectic mix of world-famous and up-and-coming jazz artists from across the globe.
Plan ahead for this one. It may sound a little boring, but take a look at the line up and work out who you want to see the most. That way, you can get there a little earlier, get the best view in the house and enjoy. We’re all about making things go smoothly.
5. Crop Over! Festival, Barbados
Dates: May – August 2018
Crop Over? The name literally means crop, over. The festival celebrates another successful sugar cane harvest – the crop over celebration. Expect carnival like shows, local food, and amazing (rum based) drinks. The best bit? It’s six weeks long — plenty of time to celebrate all that is Bajan. Just pace yourself…
6. Air + Style Festival, LA
Dates: Feb 18 – 19 2018
The world’s first air snowboard competition and music festival launched three years ago in Los Angeles. Don’t miss out on this fusion of the hottest music, the world’s best winter athletes, and a treasure trove of competition prizes totalling around $150k. This is one hot competition, in cold temperatures. What’s not to love?
7. Wonderfruit Festival, Thailand
Dates: 14 – 17 Dec 2017
Labelled as one of the best festivals in South East Asia, Wonderfruit is renowned for its focus on green policies and sustainability. The festival boasts a laid back, family-orientated atmosphere, an organic farm and even yoga lessons in the ‘goddess camp’. Take your time around this one.
