As the school year comes to a close, so does everybody’s favorite time of the year, and no, it’s not summer break.
Festival season is upon us. These melodic outdoor gatherings encompass vastly dedicated band lineups and present a rich variety for college students all over.
Myka Schrank, 19-year-old accounting major, feels the atmosphere is what makes the festivals such a fun place to be.
“It’s hard to be unhappy at festivals because of all the good vibes,” said Schrank. “I love how friendly the people are. The energy from the crowd is enlightening.”
According to Moorpark College student Cameron Minton, 23-year-old bioinformatics major, if you love music, meeting new people, seeing incredible art and feeling uplifted and free from your everyday ties, then festivals are for you.
“Festivals are amazing because it brings everyone together with the power of music and art,” said Minton. “Everyone is so happy and loving. That’s why I go: to feel and embrace everyone’s positive energy, to feel the music from my favorite bands and even bands I just discovered flow through my body.”
There is something about festivals that draws people in. Often it is the atmosphere and music, according to Andrea Levine, 25-year-old interior design major at California State Northridge. These music festivals offer such a variety it is no wonder so many college students line up months in advance to experience it.
“I love the atmosphere; so many performers in one place to see, the dancing and meeting new people,” said Levine. “The whole experience is so different from a regular concert. At a festival you can go from stage to stage to see the artists, get food and other activities are there as well.”
Some of the greatest festivals have been around for years and college students from all over have joined forces and created bonds with these musical masterpieces. Such festivals include:
- Coachella (April 15-17 and April 22-24 in Indio, CA)
- Stagecoach (April 29- May 1 in Indio, CA)
- EDC (June 17-19 in Las Vegas, NV)
- Warped Tour (Aug. 5 in San Diego, CA)
- Lighting in a Bottle (May 25-30 in Bradley, CA)
- Bonnaroo (June 9-12 in Manchester, TN)
- Burning Man (Aug 28-Sept. 5 in Black Rock Desert, NV)
- Lollapalooza (July 28-31 in Chicago, IL)
- Outside Lands (Aug. 5-7 in San Francisco, CA)
Many college students have been attending these music festivals over the years. Bridget Fornaro, 20-year-old journalism major at Moorpark College, said she has been to two music festivals and attends Warped Tour every year. About two years ago she went to Wango Tango.
“I really want to attend Bottle Rock, Coachella, Self Help Fest, Taste of Chaos festival and iHeartRadio Music Festival,” said Fornaro.
Since festivals have become such a huge event for communities, it is perfect for college students who just need a break from their everyday lives.
“I believe that live music attracts students because it is an escape from reality for a short time,” said Fornaro. “Music is therapeutic. There is nothing better than seeing multiple artists on stage and feeling like you are connected to an entire room. It’s a magical feeling.”
If you are interested in going to a music festival near you, you can check out the link below where you will find tons of amazing attractions and the best festivals local or even out of state.
