Las Vegas Review-Journal (Sunday)
Spring brings surge of good music festivals
Most travelers can’t help but imagine summer when they think music festivals, but countless celebrations of music, film and art are set to take place ahead of the summer solstice.
Of course, the South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas, which runs through March 19, is the most notable, but if you’re looking for a slightly easier ticket to snag, check out one of these underrated spring music festivals. Treefort Music Festival Where: Boise, Idaho When: March 22-26 The Treefort Music Festival has something for everyone in downtown Boise. There’s lots of music, of course, but also movies, comedy shows, yoga parties and food and beer. There’s even a Kidfort to keep the little ones entertained.
In addition to gorgeous scenery Boise is home to a variety of natural attractions and parks that will just be beginning to warm up in late March. Big Ears 2017 Where: Knoxville, Tennessee
When: March 23-26 Whether you’re a fan of original music or film, Tennessee’s Big Ears festival is the place to be in late March. Taking place in historic downtown Knoxville, this annual tradition features a slew of stellar bands, brilliant composers and a plethora of unique artists.
While Knoxville may take a backseat to Nashville and Memphis, there’s a lot to love about it, including Market Square and a wide range of historic sites.
This year’s lineup includes alternative rock band Wilco and the American debut performance of the Gavin Bryars Ensemble performing “The Sinking of the Titanic.” Savannah Music Festival Where: Savannah, Georgia When: March 23-April 8 Six hours southeast of Knoxville is where you’ll find the Savannah Music Festival, Georgia’s largest musical arts event. Whether going for the duration or just an extended weekend, you won’t be disappointed. After all, Savannah is home to tremendous history and some of the best haunts in the U.S.
This year’s two-week celebration of music and art includes folk rockers The Avett Brothers and a long list of creative talents. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Where: New Orleans When: April 28-May 7 Although certainly more renowned than some of the aforementioned festivals, the 2017 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival can still be considered a must-see event. This year’s headliners include Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Stevie Wonder and Maroon 5.
If you didn’t make Mardi Gras in the Big Easy this year, there’s no better excuse to visit than to see some of the top acts in music, taste some delicious food and experience the best of the local culture.