Top 15 Largest Festivals in the United States You Can’t Miss in 2025

The United States is home to some of the biggest and most spectacular festivals in the world. From massive music gatherings and vibrant cultural celebrations to epic food fests and iconic holiday parades, there’s a festival for every kind of traveler. In 2025, these events are expected to attract record-breaking crowds, unique performances, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re planning your next trip or just love big, bold events, here’s your ultimate guide to the Top 15 Largest Festivals in the United States You Can’t Miss in 2025.

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival – California

When: April 11–13 & April 18–20, 2025
Where: Indio, California
Attendance: Over 250,000 (across two weekends)

Coachella is the ultimate American music festival. Known for iconic headliners, surprise celebrity appearances, and fashion-forward crowds, Coachella features top genres including pop, rock, EDM, and hip-hop. The art installations and desert backdrop make it a complete sensory experience.

What’s New in 2025: AI-generated stage visuals, sustainability pavilions, and more international acts than ever.

South by Southwest (SXSW) – Texas

When: March 7–16, 2025
Where: Austin, Texas
Attendance: Over 300,000

SXSW is more than a music festival—it’s a convergence of film, music, tech, and culture. For 10 days, Austin transforms into a hub for innovation and creative exploration.

2025 Highlights: Expect groundbreaking startup showcases, indie film premieres, and performances from emerging global artists.

New Orleans Mardi Gras – Louisiana

When: March 4, 2025 (parades begin mid-February)
Where: New Orleans, Louisiana
Attendance: 1.4 million+

Mardi Gras is the largest and most famous carnival celebration in the U.S. With colorful floats, elaborate costumes, music, and endless beads, it’s a bucket-list experience for any festival-goer.

Tip: Book early and get a spot along St. Charles Avenue for the best parade views.

Lollapalooza – Illinois

When: July 31 – August 3, 2025
Where: Chicago, Illinois
Attendance: 400,000+

Set in the heart of downtown Chicago, Lollapalooza spans four days of genre-blending music and high-energy crowds. It’s famous for its scenic Grant Park location, stacked lineups, and inclusive atmosphere.

2025 Features: Climate-neutral stage design, Gen Z headliners, and interactive sponsor villages.

Burning Man – Nevada

When: August 24 – September 1, 2025
Where: Black Rock Desert, Nevada
Attendance: 80,000+

Burning Man is not just a festival—it’s a community, an art experiment, and a spiritual journey. Participants create a temporary city based on radical self-expression, leaving no trace behind.

Must-See in 2025: Themed camps exploring AI-human collaboration and psychedelic sculpture installations.

Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) – Nevada

When: May 16–18, 2025
Where: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Nevada
Attendance: 475,000+

EDC is the largest electronic dance music festival in North America. Think neon lights, 3D stages, carnival rides, and world-renowned DJs—all pumping beats under the Las Vegas sky.

EDC 2025 Highlights: Debut of holographic DJ sets and upgraded VIP sky lounges.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – New Mexico

When: October 4–12, 2025
Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Attendance: 890,000+

This festival is one of the most visually stunning events in the world. Hundreds of hot air balloons fill the sky in vibrant displays of color, especially during the famous “Mass Ascension.”

Pro Tip: Book a morning session for sunrise launches and glowing evening shows.

Stagecoach Festival – California

When: April 25–27, 2025
Where: Indio, California
Attendance: 85,000+

The country cousin of Coachella, Stagecoach brings together country music’s biggest names, western wear fashionistas, and foodies in one desert party.

2025 Trends: Country-meets-pop lineups and local craft beer showcases.

The Super Bowl Experience – TBD

When: February 3–9, 2025 (before Super Bowl LIX on Feb 9)
Where: TBD (City hosting Super Bowl 2025)
Attendance: 1 million+ (across multiple events)

While technically a sports event, the Super Bowl Experience is a week-long festival with concerts, fan zones, celebrity sightings, and street parties leading up to the game.

2025 Expectation: Music headliners, augmented reality experiences, and next-gen fan zones.

CMA Fest – Tennessee

When: June 5–8, 2025
Where: Nashville, Tennessee
Attendance: 90,000+ per day

Country music fans descend on Nashville for CMA Fest, where over 300 artists perform across 10 stages. It’s a fan-focused event where meet-and-greets and spontaneous performances are common.

Can’t-Miss in 2025: Riverfront Stage shows and surprise acoustic sets.

Conclusion

From coast to coast, 2025 is stacked with world-class festivals that celebrate everything from music and food to culture and innovation. Whether you’re dancing in the desert at Coachella, marveling at balloons in Albuquerque, or catching country legends in Nashville, the largest festivals in the United States offer unforgettable experiences that reflect the country’s diversity and creativity.

With these 15 standout festivals on your radar, you’re guaranteed a year packed with excitement, adventure, and community.

FAQs

1. What is the largest festival in the U.S. by attendance?

The Chicago Air and Water Show tops the list with over 2 million attendees annually, followed closely by Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

2. Which festival should I attend if I love electronic music?

The Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas is the top pick for EDM lovers, featuring a massive lineup and immersive stage production.

3. Are these festivals family-friendly?

Many festivals like the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, Rose Parade, and Chicago Air and Water Show are great for families. Others like Coachella or Burning Man are better suited for adults.