Essential Listening: The World’s Best Live Music Events

When it comes to travel, there is no better way to experience the world than to listen to its music. In every corner of the globe, you can expect to find something truly unique, born out of a single culture and whatever you’re hunting for, you’re bound to stumble upon something new to love. While finding the very best live music events around the world is no small task, these festivals and popups are some of the most beloved by travelers and arts lovers the world over, showcasing a number of the very best in local music scenes. Want to travel the world? Just follow the beat.

1. WEATHER FESTIVAL

(source: culturebox.francetvinfo.fr)

(source: culturebox.francetvinfo.fr)

When it comes to music events, you would be hard pressed to find a venue as cool as Paris. It should come as no surprise, then, that the Weather Festival draws in such big crowds each year, showing off some of the city’s best acts. Taking place in a forest, this massive three day rave features some of the most popular names in electronic music, all in one of the city’s most beautiful spots. No matter if the sun shines or not, you’re guaranteed a great time.

2. WAY OUT WEST

(source: tmoose.co.uk)

(source: tmoose.co.uk)

If you’re looking for something a little more ecological, however, Way Out West is always a great option. Housed in Gothenberg’s wooded park Slottsskogen, Way Out West is one of the most environmentally friendly festivals around the world, pushing a very green agenda. As well as doing your bit for the planet, you can listen to the likes of Beck, Blur and Björk at the same time; what’s not to love?

3. OUTSIDE LANDS

(source: huffingtonpost.com)

(source: huffingtonpost.com)

Located in perhaps what is San Francisco’s most picturesque spot, Outside Lands shows off the city in its best light and is a great way of falling in love with California. When it comes to the music, you’re more than well covered, too; mainstream and underground acts take over the rural area, bringing together music fans from all walk of life.

4. SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS

(source: splendourinthegrass.com)

(source: splendourinthegrass.com)


Having been a regular on the Australian music scene for almost 15 years, Splendour In The Grass has fast become a local institution for culture lovers. Set in the North Byron Highlands, the festival is one of the most sprawling in the world, with many stages being a good trek apart from each other. What about the music, though? You can expect to find the best of Aussie and international popular talent, from the likes of Mark Ronson right through to home grown act Tame Impala.