It’s exciting to have your favorite artist headline a fest, but what about if they could choose who else plays the festival with them? Welcome to the artist-curated festival, a trend that’s been gaining popularity over the last few years. When an artist invites their friends and inspirations to join them, it’s going to be an intriguing lineup.
Eaux Claires
June 16-17, 2017
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
The Artist: Bon Iver
Lineup Sampler: Feist, Sylvan Esso, Wilco, Polica
Now in its third year, the Bon Iver led Eaux Claires Festival continues to evolve, this year promising reconfigured grounds, hidden venues, and surprise collaborations.
High Water Festival
April 22-23, 2017
North Charleston, South Carolina
The Artist: Shovels & Rope
Lineup Sampler: The Avett Brothers, The Shins, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Dawes
The debut of the High Water Festival will be “a celebration of music, food, and libations.”
Cayuga Sound Festival
September 22-23, 2017
Ithaca, New York
The Artist: X-Ambassadors
Lineup Sampler: The Roots, K. Flay, The Knocks
Another first time festival hosted by brothers Sam and Casey Harris. “We wanted to curate a music festival in Ithaca that celebrates the city where we hail from.”
The Roots Picnic
June 3, 2017
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Artist: The Roots
Lineup Sampler: Pharrell, Solange, Lil Wayne
The annual summertime celebration from the Roots has become so popular that last year they held a second festival in New York City.
Camp Bisco
July 13-15, 2017
Scranton, Pennsylvania
The Artist: Disco Biscuits
Lineup Sampler: Bassnectar, Pretty Lights, Griz, Lotus
Most of these curated festivals are new, but not Camp Bisco. Jamtronica legends, The Disco Biscuits, started this festival back in 1999.
Solid Sound Festival
June 23-25, 2017
North Adams, Massachusetts
The Artist: Wilco
Lineup Sampler: Kurt Vile & The Violators, Deep Sea Diver, The Autumn Defense, Big Thief
It’s rare in the United States to see a bi-annual festival, but every other year Wilco and friends take over the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art for a weekend of solid indie rock.
Sled Island
June 21-25, 2017
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
The Artist: Flying Lotus
Lineup Sampler: DJ Quik, Seven Davis Jr., Ash Koosha
The massive 300+ Calgary showcase festival chooses a different artist each year to put “their stamp on the festival through special programming choices and with their presence at the event.”
