What is the story about?
Music has this way of pulling strangers together. Add in a bit of travel, and you’re not just attending a show—you’re writing a story you’ll tell for years.
Festivals aren’t just concerts anymore, especially not for Gen Z. They’ve become full-blown adventures. You get to discover a new city, meet people from everywhere, and just let the music sweep you away. Airbnb’s Experience-Led Travel report backs this up—over 62% of Gen Z shape their travel plans around festivals. And 2026? It’s packed with some you won’t want to miss.
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival – April 10–12 & April 17–19, Indio, USA
Coachella is famous for more than just music. Art installations tower over the landscape, fashion statements rule the crowd, and every year, the lineup gets everyone talking. In 2026, you’ve got Justin Bieber, Karol G, The Strokes, FKA twigs, and Sabrina Carpenter onstage. It’s not just a concert—it’s a cultural moment.
Lollapalooza – March 13–15, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Lollapalooza Argentina lands at the Hipodromo de San Isidro, pulling in artists from pop, rock, indie, and electronic scenes. Giant stages, wild crowds, and that unmistakable festival electricity—this is where music fans from all over the world gather. The 2026 lineup is stacked: Sabrina Carpenter, Tyler, The Creator, Chappell Roan, Deftones.Tomorrowland – July 17–26, Boom, Belgium
Tomorrowland is every EDM fan’s dream come to life. Ten days of jaw-dropping stage designs, fireworks, and nonstop sets from the world’s best DJs. People fly in from over 200 countries, turning Boom into a global dance floor. The vibe? Pure magic—like you’ve stepped into another world.
Rio Carnival – February 13–21, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Calling the Rio Carnival a music festival feels like selling it short. For nine days, the city goes wild. Samba takes over the streets, costumes shimmer everywhere, and everyone’s out dancing. The Sambadrome parades? That’s the heart of it—samba schools pour everything into their routines, backed by thunderous drums. The whole place buzzes with energy you can feel in your bones.New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – April 23–May 3, New Orleans, USA
Jazz was born in New Orleans, and every year, the city throws this legendary party. Now in its 56th year, Jazz Fest celebrates jazz, blues, gospel, rock, and all the local sounds that make the city unique. You’ll catch unforgettable performances, taste classic Louisiana dishes, and soak up the city’s laid-back musical spirit.
