When it comes to experiencing live music in an electrifying atmosphere, New York City tops the festival scene. NYC music festivals offer great diversity in genres, venues, and experiences.
If you’re planning to attend your first music festival in NY, 2025’s lineup promises unforgettable performances. Let’s get into the details of the best NYC music festivals- the venue, dates, ticket pricing, and tips on planning ahead, that deserve a spot on your calendar this year.
Biggest NYC Music Festivals 2025: Top 10 By Attendance
Before we explore each festival in detail, let’s look at the most popular events ranked by attendance:
| No. | Festival Name | Attendance | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Governors Ball Music Festival 2025 | 26K- 50K | Flushing Meadows Carona Park, NYC | June 6-8 |
| 2 | Rochester International Jazz Festival 2025 | 11K- 25K | Multiple Venues | June 20- 28 |
| 3 | TAP NY Craft Beer Festival 2025 | 11K- 25K | Blackthorne Resort in East Durham NY, | June 28, 29 |
| 4 | Rock The Dock 2025 | 11K- 25K | The Lake George Steamboat Company, Lake George, NY | July 12 |
| 5 | Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival 2025 | 11K- 25K | Walsh Farm, Oak Hill, New York | July 16-20 |
| 6 | Evolutions Festival 2025 | 11K- 25K | Sugar MountainCaneadea, NY | September 5-7 |
| 7 | Borderland Festival 2025 | 11K- 25K | Knox Farm State Park, East Aurora, NY | September 12-14 |
| 8 | Mountain Jam 2025 | 10K or less | Belleayre Mountain, Highmount, NY | June 20-22 |
| 9 | Wire Festival 2025 | 10K or less | Knockdown Center, NY | May 16-18 |
| 10 | Moonwalk Festival 2025 | 10K or less | Yasgur Farms in Secret Location, NY | June 12-15 |
Now, let’s get into the details of these incredible festivals where you can expect some of the most memorable musical experiences.
1. Governors Ball Music Festival 2025
| Attendance | 26K- 50K |
| Founded In | June 18, 2011 |
| Lineup Highlights | Tyler, Beson Boone, Olivia Rodrico, Feid, Glass Animals |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $169 |
| Official Link | Here |
The Governors Ball Music Festival 2025 is the largest music festival in New York City, with an estimated attendance of over 50K. You can expect an eclectic mix of indie rock, hip-hop, electronic, and pop across multiple stages; a multi-genre format that mirrors the diversity seen in events like the Kendrick Lamar Tour.
This year’s lineup features unprecedented star power with Tyler, Beson Boone, Olivia Rodrico, and many more, delivering unforgettable performances.
Beyond music, you’ll enjoy gourmet food vendors, art installations, and spectacular city views all creating the essential NYC festival experience that defines summer in the city.
Olivia’s on fire this year! Track her full tour moves beyond Gov Ball in our GUTS World Tour guide.
2. Rochester International Jazz Festival 2025
| Attendance | 11K- 25K |
| Founded In | 2002 |
| Lineup Highlights | Smokey Robinson, Wynton Marsalis, The Wood Brothers, Rickie Lee Jones, Thundercat |
| Ticket Prices | Starting from $33 |
| Official Link | Here |
The Rochester Jazz Festival 2025 is celebrating its 22nd year, this world-class event features an extraordinary lineup alongside 1,500+ artists across multiple venues.
From intimate club performances to massive free shows, you’ll experience everything from traditional jazz to contemporary fusion. The festival’s unique Club Pass allows access to hundreds of performances, making it a must-attend for both dedicated jazz lovers and curious newcomers also.
3. TAP NY Craft Beer Festival 2025
| Attendance | 11K- 25K |
| Founded In | 1998 |
| Lineup Highlights | Not yet announced |
| Ticket Prices | Starting from $69 |
| Official Link | Here |
You can experience the TAP NY Craft Beer Festival, where New York’s top breweries showcase their finest creations. You can enjoy unlimited beer tastings, savor local cuisine, and groove to live music.
You get to engage with passionate brewers, discover unique flavors, and celebrate the state’s famous craft beer culture. The festival also features brewing workshops if you’re interested in the craft behind the beverages.
4. Rock The Dock 2025
| Attendance | 11K- 25K |
| Founded In | 2017 |
| Lineup Highlights | Umphreys McGee, Pink Talking Fish, Wild Adriatic, Chestnut Grove, The Switch |
| Ticket Prices | Starting from $55 |
| Official Link | Here |
Rock the Dock Music Festival is set for July 12, 2025, at the Lake George Steamboat Company’s pier in Lake George, NY. This family-friendly event offers live performances from six musical acts on two stages.
You’ll be surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains, where you can enjoy the music from the dock or aboard steamboats arranged around the stage. The festival also features local craft food and beer vendors, merchandise tents, and art vendors, creating a unique and immersive experience.
5. Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival 2025
| Attendance | 11K- 25K |
| Founded In | 1984 |
| Lineup Highlights | Woody Platt, Sierra Hull, Henhouse Prowlers, Lindsay Lou |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $100 |
| Official Link | Here |
Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival 2025 will take place from July 18 to 21 in Oak Hill, NY. It is well-known as one of the nation’s premier bluegrass festivals, it features a stellar lineup of traditional and contemporary bluegrass artists.
Music enthusiasts can enjoy four days of live music on multiple stages, plus workshops, kids’ activities, and late-night jams. The festival also offers camping options, artisan vendors, and local food trucks. With scenic Catskill Mountain views, it’s a visual treat to the eyes as well for all ages.
6. Evolutions Festival 2025
| Attendance | 11K- 25K |
| Founded In | 2002 |
| Lineup Highlights | Not yet announced |
| Ticket Prices | Join Ticket Waitlist |
| Official Link | Here |
Evolutions Festival is all about celebrating movement, music, and art. It’s an immersive experience that encourages self-expression and personal growth. From interactive workshops and creative performances to inspiring art installations, there’s something for everyone.
The festival also showcases diverse musical acts, delicious local food, and opportunities to connect with like-minded people. This festival offers a welcoming space to explore, create, and celebrate together.
7. Borderland Festival 2025
| Attendance | 11K- 25K |
| Founded In | 2023 |
| Lineup Highlights | Vampire Weekend, Khruangbin, Mt. Joy, Band of Horses |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $109 |
| Official Link | Here |
Borderland Festival 2025 offers a unique blend of creativity, community, and sustainability. With a full schedule of live exhibitions, you’ll get to see the work of talented artisans at the craft hall, showing off their latest creations.
You can enjoy farm-to-table feasting with local chefs and food trucks offering the best dishes, along with a variety of craft beers, wines, and spirits. Families too can enjoy a kid-friendly experience at Kidsland, making this a perfect festival for all ages.
8. Mountain Jam 2025
| Attendance | 10K or less |
| Founded In | 2005 |
| Lineup Highlights | Goose, Kitchen Dwellers, Upstate, Dogs in a Pile |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $130 |
| Official Link | Here |
Mountain Jam Festival 2025 marks the return of the iconic jam band celebration, set in the breathtaking Catskill Mountains at Belleayre Mountain. Starting in 2005 as a celebration of independent music, this festival has grown to become a staple of the Northeast’s music scene.
You’ll expect a mix of rock, folk, Americana, and indie performances that have the huge energy of jam bands. After a halt due to the pandemic, Mountain Jam returns to its roots with a fresh, exciting vibe, celebrating freedom, music, and connection in a new, stunning location.
9. Wire Festival 2025
| Attendance | 10K or less |
| Founded In | 2022 |
| Lineup Highlights | Annie Lew, Bashkka, Bryan Kasenic, Concrete Husband |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $50 |
| Official Link | Here |
The WIRE Festival 2025 promises an unforgettable experience at the Knockdown Center with nonstop music on four stages. Whether you’re grooving to international talent on the Main Hall’s Stage 1 or diving into Berlin’s Pornceptual crew takeover on Stage 2, there’s something for every electronic music lover.
Expect a full day of music takeover and the amazing sounds at the all-night Ambient Stage. You also get to witness panel discussions hosted by RA to talk about crucial issues in electronic music, making it an overall unique experience.
10. Moonwalk Festival 2025
| Attendance | 10K or less |
| Founded In | 2022 |
| Lineup Highlights | Not yet announced |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $106 |
| Official Link | Here |
Moonwalk Festival is more than just an event, it’s an experience rooted in the power of music, art, and human connection. It was actually born from a dream to unite people through shared energy, this festival offers a chance to escape the routine of everyday life.
With its cheerful atmosphere of positivity and creativity, Moonwalk brings together thousands of festival-goers under the light of music and dance. While it’s a haven for inspiration, be prepared for large crowds and occasional logistical challenges, making it essential to plan ahead for the best experience.
Are There Upstate NY Music Festivals 2025
While NYC hosts incredible festivals, choosing upstate rewards you with unique experiences in breathtaking natural settings. Upstate festivals typically offer camping options, more spacious grounds, and a greater connection to nature than their city counterparts.
1. Rock the Country 2025 (From April 4 to July 26)
| Attendance | Around 25K |
| Founded In | 1967 |
| Lineup Highlights | Kid Rock, Nickelback, Hank Williams Jr.,Travis Tritt |
| Ticket Prices | Ticket Prices as per the location |
| Official Link | Here |
| Location | Ashland, Knoxville, Cullman |
Rock The Country 2025 is an amazing festival that brings together country music lovers to celebrate freedom, unity, and the spirit of America. It’s more than just a weekend of live performances, it’s a chance to bond with fellow patriots over shared values, good food, and great tunes.
While the energy is infectious, be aware that the large crowds can sometimes mean long lines or crowded spaces. If you’re seeking a genuine, down-to-earth experience with amazing music, this festival won’t disappoint. Get ready for a true celebration of country culture.
| Dates | Cities | Map |
|---|---|---|
| April 4-5 | Livingston, LA | Livingston Fair Grounds |
| April 25-26 | Knoxville, TN | Greenback’s Maple Lane Farms |
| May 9-10 | Ocala, FL | Florida Horse Park |
| May 30-31 | York, PA | York Expo Center |
| June 12-13 | Hastings, MI | Barry Expo Center |
| June 20-21 | Little Rock, AR | Arkansas State Fairgrounds |
| June 19-21 | Cullman, Alabama | Rock the South |
| July 11-12 | Ashland, KY | Boyd County Fairgrounds |
| July 18-19 | Sioux Falls, SD | WH Loyn Fairgrounds |
| July 25-26 | Anderson, SC | Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center |
2. The Great Blue Heron Music Festival 2025 (July 4-6)
| Attendance | Around 5k |
| Founded In | 1992 |
| Lineup Highlights | Andy Frasco & The U.N., Beats Antique, The Rumble, and Shadowgrass. |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $59 |
| Official Link | The Great Blue Heron Music Festival |
| Location | 2361 Waits Corners Rd, Sherman, New York 14781, United States |
Great Blue Heron Festival isn’t just about music, it’s a celebration for the whole family. With activities for all ages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Kids can get creative in the colorful Kids Tent, with crafts, yoga, and performances.
Teens have their own space to socialize, while workshops offer chances to learn instruments like banjo and fiddle. For relaxation, The Revival Tent hosts yoga and meditation. You can also enjoy hiking, swimming, and visiting craft and food vendors.
3. Great South Bay Music Festival (July 24-27)
| Attendance | Around 15K |
| Founded In | 2008 |
| Lineup Highlights | Say Anything, Eggy, Taking Back Sunday |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $65 |
| Official Link | Great South Bay Music Festival |
| Location | Shorefront Park, Patchogue, NY |
The Great South Bay Music Festival is the largest and longest-running four-day celebration, offering a diverse range of musical genres from rock to jazz, hip-hop, and more. Held on the stunning Great South Bay, it’s an experience that attracts both music lovers and families.
While there’s plenty of live entertainment, you’ll also find a vibrant Artisan Market, delicious food options, and kids’ activities in the KIDZONE. Overall, it’s a great way to spend time with friends and family while enjoying the best of live music and local culture.
4. Kingdom Bound 2025 (July 28-30)
| Attendance | Around 25k |
| Founded In | 1986 |
| Lineup Highlights | Skillet, Anne Wilson, Mathew West, We are Messengers |
| Ticket Prices | https://www.kingdombound.org/tickets |
| Official Link | Kingdom Bound |
| Location | Six Flags Darien Lake, Western NY |
Kingdom Bound is a vibrant Christian music festival where over 50 artists and speakers lead worship across four stages, creating an uplifting atmosphere. It’s not just about the music; it’s about building a community of faith.
You’ll experience early check-ins, morning worship sessions, and cozy late-night campfires that bring people closer together. Whether you’re camping on-site or just visiting, the event provides a deep sense of connection.
5. Follow the Arrow Festival 2025 (June 29)
| Attendance | Around 25k |
| Founded In | 2023 |
| Lineup Highlights | Drive-By Truckers & Deer Tick, Guster & The Mountain Goats |
| Ticket Prices | Starting at $76 |
| Official Link | Follow the Arrow Festival |
| Location | 3311 Rt.23A , Palenville, NY, United States, New York |
Arrowood Farms in the Hudson Valley offers a unique blend of farm-to-table experiences. This sustainable farm brewery and distillery uses ingredients sourced from local New York farms to craft beers and spirits. The cozy taproom invites visitors to enjoy locally inspired comfort foods while embracing the scenic beauty of the area.
Perfect for those who appreciate community, nature, and high-quality brews, Arrowood Farms also hosts regular events, making it a must-visit destination for a relaxing and immersive farm-to-glass experience.
How To Plan For NYC Music Festivals?
After attending countless festivals across New York, I’ve compiled these essential tips to help you prepare:
- Book tickets early for substantial savings
- Research accommodation options months in advance
- Plan transportation to avoid festival traffic
- Pack weather-appropriate gear and sunscreen
- Download festival apps for real-time updates
- Bring a reusable water bottle and cash
- Mark must-see acts on the schedule
- Set a realistic daily budget
- Locate medical tents upon arrival
- Arrange meeting points with your group
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Conclusion: Governors Ball Is One Of New York City’s Biggest Music Festivals, Drawing 25,000 To 50,000 Attendees Each Year
From the Governors Ball’s electric energy to upstate festivals’ serene locations, New York offers musical experiences to satisfy every taste.
Based on my festival adventures, I particularly recommend Governors Ball for first-timers looking for a complete NYC festival experience, Grey Fox for those wanting to immerse themselves in a unique musical community, and Mountain Jam for nature lovers who appreciate musical history.
Get ready to experience these incredible festivals yourself. Head to the official websites to secure your tickets before they sell out.
FAQs
Governors Ball is NYC’s largest music festival, drawing up to 50,000 attendees daily across multiple stages in Flushing Meadows Carona Park, NYC.
Absolutely! NYC hosts dozens of music festivals annually, ranging from massive multi-day events to intimate genre-specific gatherings.
The Governors Ball Music Festival is New York’s most renowned annual music event, drawing major headliners and setting attendance records since 2011.
Woodstock 69 became a cultural landmark when 400,000+ people gathered peacefully for three days of music despite rain, mud, and logistical challenges in upstate New York.
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival typically draws the largest attendance in the USA, with approximately 125,000 attendees per weekend across two weekends.
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