Music festivals that are far from the mainstream

Every year there are numerous music festivals held across the globe. You can catch most of these during the festival season, which stretches from around April to September. This is when some of the trendiest and most popular musical acts in the world perform for music lovers of all ages. Venues typically range from campgrounds, parks, polo fields and even amphitheatres – basically any venue that can accommodate a big crowd.

You and your friends have undoubtedly heard about the big music festivals, Coachella, Tomorrowland and Glastonbury, but there are many more to be discovered. What’s more, some of these are held in picturesque venues around the globe, so you can satisfy your musical soul and your wanderlust at the same time. Some music festivals far from the mainstream are outlined below:

• Ultra Music Festival.

This is the world’s premier electronic music festival. It is a three-day event that is held in two main venues in South Africa. The first two days are held in Johannesburg, while the last day’s events are held in Cape Town. Since this event is held in February, it is the best way for you to escape the winter blues and enjoy the sun and scenery in South Africa. If you are a fan of electronic music, buy your tickets online and book a seat on a cheap flight from London to Johannesburg to catch the next Ultra Music Festival.

• Jazz at Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

If you are a jazz aficionado, then you can’t miss this festival. For more than a decade, the Jazz à Saint-Germain-des-Prés festival has been livening the streets of Paris. Usually taking place in late May or early June, the festival has an impressive line-up of great jazz maestros. The organizers often select concert venues that are not normally open to the public, so you can boast of having had exclusive access. If jazz is your thing, book a flight to Paris France next year and spice up your summer.

• Hangout Music Festival.

The Hangout Music Festival has been running annually for just over five years. Held on the sandy beaches of the Gulf Coast in the USA, the event has certainly put the lush Alabama beachfront on the map. This three-day party features a huge and diverse line-up of over 70 bands and artists, so your taste in music is likely to be represented. Judging by its rising popularity, the Hangout Music Festival is set to become one of the top American festivals in the summers to come.

• BottleRock.

During the month of May, in Napa Valley, California, you can catch one of the oddest music festivals ever to be held. This is the BottleRock festival. It prides itself on a broad selection of musical performances, ranging from classic rock acts to nostalgia bands and hip-hop purists. This eclectic mix is worth checking out. If the music doesn’t appeal to you, you can always investigate one of the stages dedicated to sommeliers, winemakers and chefs. The wine, weather and music make this a refreshing alternative to the standard music festivals.

So the next time you are stuck for a summer plan, choose one of these music festivals for an unforgettable holiday.