3 Summer Music Festivals You Should Know About

More than just an outdoor concert, Bonnaroo is its own kind of experience. When the Manchester, Tennessee fest started in 2002, it paid tribute to its location by centering on folk-rock acts. Now it's grown to hold one of the industry's most-diversified lineups, with more than 130 performances, ranging from the legendary Red Hot Chili Peppers to hip-hop king Travis Scott. Other acts span bluegrass, electronic and gospel, and they usually last well into the night (party-goers can take on DJ sets that begin at midnight). Held on a massive 700-acre farm, Bonnaroo offers plenty of room for other activities, including the "Centroo" flea market and its very own comedy theater, where those seeking a good laugh can do so with favorites like Comedy Central's Hannibal Buress.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin's annual Summerfest celebration has been a summer tradition for residents and visitors for more than 50 years. Unlike most festivals, which occur on a long weekend, Summerfest takes place annually for 12 days along the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan. Never has it been easier to witness more than 800 bands all in one festival. The sheer number of bands and performances makes Summerfest the largest outdoor music festival in the world. Festival goers can also enjoy the iconic Milwaukee food scene, paddling, boating, dockside barbecues and other activities that integrate this music experience into the gorgeous lakefront scenery.

Can't make it to the Midwest in early summer? Have no fear. The East Coast's Firefly Music Festival brings the same feel-good vibes. Camp out and listen to your favorite genre-defying artists — think pop stars Kesha and Franz Ferdinand — in the luscious woodlands of Dover, Delaware. What sets Firefly apart is its focus on the fans. Organizers are always encouraging attendees to share their opinions, ideas and even the artists they want to see. Be sure to visit the festival's community page, so you can to take part in the only "fan-curated" music festival. And get out your best stationery: This is the first year that Firefly is accepting fan mail for all its artists, to be hand-delivered to their dressing rooms.

Of course, these three fests represent only the beginning of an epic season. Once you're ready for some more fun in the sun, be sure to check out other festivals happening throughout the rest of the summer.