The Best EDM Festivals In California

California’s vibrant electronic dance music scene is home to some of the best EDM festivals in the world. From Coachella to Beyond Wonderland, the Golden State offers an array of music festivals catering to the diverse tastes of dance music lovers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best EDM festivals in California and what sets them apart from the rest.

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival 🎪

Arguably one of the most iconic music festivals in the world, Coachella attracts thousands of music lovers from all over the world. The festival features a diverse lineup of artists spanning across multiple genres, including electronic dance music. Coachella takes place over two consecutive weekends every April in Indio, California. In addition to music, the festival offers a variety of art installations and gourmet food vendors, making it an experience that goes beyond just music.

Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas 🎡

While not technically in California, EDC Las Vegas is still a popular destination for California music lovers. The festival is known for its incredible production value, featuring elaborate stage designs and stunning visuals. EDC Las Vegas takes place at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway every May and boasts a lineup of top-tier electronic dance music artists.

Beyond Wonderland 🌸

Beyond Wonderland is an Insomniac event that takes place in San Bernardino, California, every March. The festival features an Alice in Wonderland-themed atmosphere, complete with elaborate stage designs and costumed performers. Beyond Wonderland offers a diverse lineup of electronic dance music artists, including house, techno, and trance music.

Nocturnal Wonderland 🦉

Also hosted by Insomniac, Nocturnal Wonderland takes place at Glen Helen Regional Park in San Bernardino, California, every September. The festival is known for its immersive atmosphere, featuring art installations and costumed performers. Nocturnal Wonderland offers a diverse lineup of electronic dance music artists, including house, techno, and bass music.

Hard Summer Music Festival 🌞

Hard Summer Music Festival is a two-day event that takes place every August at the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California. The festival features a diverse lineup of electronic dance music artists, including house, techno, and trap music. Hard Summer is known for its high-energy atmosphere and cutting-edge production value.

CRSSD Festival 🌊

CRSSD Festival takes place twice a year in San Diego, California, at Waterfront Park. The festival is known for its scenic waterfront location and laid-back atmosphere. The lineup features a mix of electronic dance music and live acts, with a focus on underground and indie artists.

Dirtybird Campout 🏕️

Hosted by the Dirtybird record label, Dirtybird Campout offers a unique festival experience that combines music with camping and outdoor activities. The festival takes place at Modesto Reservoir Campgrounds in Central California every October and features a lineup of house and techno music artists.

Escape Psycho Circus 🎃

Escape Psycho Circus is a Halloween-themed electronic dance music festival hosted by Insomniac. The festival takes place at the NOS Events Center in San Bernardino, California, every October and offers a variety of spooky attractions and costumed performers. The lineup features a mix of electronic dance music genres, including house, techno, and bass music.

Lightning In A Bottle 🔥

Lightning In A Bottle is a transformational music and arts festival that takes place every May in Bradley, California. The festival offers a variety of workshops and wellness activities, in addition to a diverse lineup of electronic dance music artists. Lightning In A Bottle is known for its sustainability efforts and eco-friendly approach to festival production.

Desert Hearts Festival 🏰

Desert Hearts Festival is a four-day event that takes place every April in Southern California. The festival is known for its intimate atmosphere, with a limited capacity of 3,500 attendees. Desert Hearts offers a lineup of house and techno music artists and features a variety of art installations and activities, including yoga and sound healing.

Hard Day of the Dead ☠️

Hard Day of the Dead is a Halloween-themed electronic dance music festival hosted by Hard Events. The festival takes place at the Los Angeles State Historic Park every November and features a lineup of top-tier electronic dance music artists. Hard Day of the Dead is known for its elaborate stage designs and immersive visual productions.

Woogie Weekend 🌈

Woogie Weekend is a three-day camping festival hosted by the Do LaB, known for its production of the famed Woogie stage at Coachella music festival. The festival takes place every July in Southern California and features a lineup of house and techno music artists. Woogie Weekend is known for its laid-back atmosphere and unique camping experience.

Secret Project Festival 🚪

Secret Project Festival is a two-day event hosted by Factory 93, Insomniac’s underground music brand. The festival takes place at the Chinatown Plaza in Los Angeles and features a lineup of techno and house music artists. Secret Project is known for its industrial atmosphere and underground dance music experience.

Day Trip Festival ☀️

Day Trip Festival is a one-day event hosted by Insomniac that takes place at the LA Waterfront every July. The festival features a lineup of house and techno music artists and offers a variety of attractions, including art installations and gourmet food vendors. Day Trip is known for its waterfront location and scenic views of the Los Angeles Harbor.

FAQs

1. When do tickets for California EDM festivals typically go on sale?

Ticket sale dates vary from festival to festival, but they typically go on sale several months before the event date. Some festivals offer early bird pricing for those who purchase tickets early.

2. Are there any age restrictions for California EDM festivals?

Most festivals are restricted to those who are 18 years of age or older. Some festivals have a minimum age requirement of 21.

3. What is the best way to get to California EDM festivals?

Most festivals offer shuttle services from nearby cities or airports. Some also offer camping options for those who want to stay on-site.

4. What should I bring to a California EDM festival?

Be sure to bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and a small backpack to carry your belongings. Many festivals also allow small umbrellas or portable chairs.

5. Can I bring my own food and drinks to California EDM festivals?

Outside food and drinks are typically not allowed at festivals. However, most festivals offer a variety of food vendors and water stations on-site.

6. Are there any prohibited items at California EDM festivals?

Prohibited items can vary from festival to festival, but typically include weapons, drugs, and alcohol. Be sure to check the festival’s website for a list of prohibited items before attending.

7. What is the best time to arrive at California EDM festivals?

It’s best to arrive early to avoid long lines and ensure that you have plenty of time to explore the festival grounds. Some festivals offer early entry options for those looking to beat the crowds.

8. What is the best way to meet people at California EDM festivals?

Attending festivals with friends is a great way to meet new people. Most festivals also offer community areas and meetups for attendees to connect with each other.

9. Are there any camping options at California EDM festivals?

Many festivals offer camping options for attendees who want to stay on-site. Be sure to check the festival’s website for more information on camping options and amenities.

10. How can I stay safe at California EDM festivals?

Be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed. Look out for your fellow attendees and report any suspicious or dangerous behavior to festival staff or security.

11. Can I leave and re-enter California EDM festivals?

Most festivals allow re-entry, but be sure to check the festival’s website for their specific re-entry policy.

12. What should I do if I lose something at a California EDM festival?

Most festivals have a lost and found area where attendees can report lost items. Be sure to check the festival’s website for more information on their lost and found policy.

13. What is the best way to prepare for a California EDM festival?

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the festival’s rules and regulations before attending. Pack accordingly and make sure to stay hydrated and well-rested.

Conclusion

California offers some of the best EDM festivals in the world, each with its own unique atmosphere and lineup of artists. Whether you’re a die-hard electronic dance music fan or just looking for a fun weekend experience, California’s EDM festivals are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. So, grab your friends and get ready to dance the night away at one of these amazing festivals.