Unusual Music Festivals Around the World

You might feel slightly bored with music festivals. The formula can often get a little stale. But there are festivals around the world that offer a very different take on it, bringing together culture and tradition in a way that’s often spectacular.

So, which festivals truly count as worthwhile and distinctive? Let’s consider a few of the best.

Burning Man, Nevada

The Burning Man festival, held annually in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, is about more than simply consuming music as a product. It takes its name from the ritual burning of an effigy on the final night – but there’s plenty more to see and appreciate. There are no headline acts or scheduled performances, making this a radically different experience from the one you might be used to.

Since the event was originally conceived, it’s become wildly popular, and a number of new rules have been dreamed up in order to keep the experience fun for everyone. These include bans on fireworks and animals, and a ban on driving all but certain approved vehicles. The festival is under significant financial pressure – and thus now is a great time to attend (before it’s too late!).

Full Moon Party, Thailand

All-night beach parties occur once every full moon, on the island of Koh Pha-ngan. This tradition began in the early eighties, when it attracted just a few dozen revellers; now, thousands of people gather under the moonlight to enjoy music, dance, and an iconic series of fire shows.

Rise Festival, Les Deux Alpes

If you want to appreciate some amazing dance music, and world-class skiers and snowboarders at the same time, then you’ll want to pay a visit to the amazing six-day Rise Festival. Set within one of the world’s most popular ski resorts, it’s a wonderful way to round off your ski holidays in France.

Secret Solstice, Iceland

Looking for a more unusual, attention-grabbing backdrop for your festival experience? If you travel to the right part of the world, at the right time of year, then you can enjoy a sun that never sets. In Reykjavik, Iceland, you can party long into the night, without worrying about it ever getting dark. The vibe is utterly surreal and slightly magical, and the experience might be difficult to forget.

Travel to the island in 2026, and you’ll be able to enjoy a different natural phenomenon: a total solar eclipse. The next one won’t arrive until 2196, which makes this an event not to be missed.

Top Photo by Tony Pham on Unsplash