On what seemed like a peaceful Sunday morning in late September, a simple text message sparked a whirlwind of emotions: ‘We’re counting you in for the Coldplay concert.’ This seemingly innocuous message set off a thrilling rollercoaster of excitement and anticipation, ultimately leading to disappointment and indifference. Across the country, thousands experienced similar emotional waves, exposing a truth about the growing allure of live music events.
The appeal of concerts and festivals has surged in recent years, transcending borders as fans passionately travel to witness their favorite artists such as BTS, Taylor Swift, Imagine Dragons, and others. It’s not just about the music—it’s about the whole experience: the atmosphere, the camaraderie, and those unforgettable moments that stay etched in memory.
Even if you’ve missed the chance to grab tickets for Coldplay or Diljit Dosanjh’s performances, despair not! The buzz is now around Maroon 5’s first-ever performance in India. Besides this exciting debut, there are plenty of other vibrant music festivals and performances that invite exploration and attendance.
Lollapalooza, scheduled for March 8-9, 2025, in Mumbai, is more than just a music festival; it’s an institution with a history spanning three decades. This festival pioneered the art of blending diverse music genres into a singular lineup, become renowned for spanning multiple days, and introduced the concept of a second stage while combining art with activism. After enjoying escalating success in its initial editions in India, its third edition has already created waves with the announcement of a stellar lineup. Headlined by American punk rock icons Green Day, this year’s roster also boasts artists like Shawn Mendes, Louis Tomlinson, Humankind, and Glass Animals among many others. Owen Roncon, chief of business for live events at BookMyShow, emphasizes the innovation embedded in the festival’s planning. From predicting global artist touring routes to synchronizing with the Indian musical appetite, each aspect is meticulously curated, like the VerTech Stage System—an avant-garde all-steel stage designed for awe-inspiring performances.
Next on the exciting lineup is the Echoes of the Earth festival, taking place on December 7-8, 2024, in Bengaluru. Regarded as India’s most eco-friendly music festival, Echoes of the Earth is now in its seventh edition.
. A celebration of cultural diversity through music, it attracts global audiences who are increasingly eco-conscious. Festival director, Roshan Netalkar, believes that the trending awareness among younger generations aligns well with their mission of sustainability. This year’s festival, themed “Symphony of Seasons,” beautifully integrates environmental consciousness with innovative waste-to-art installations, channeling the moods of the four seasons through musical stages and artistic displays.
On the same weekend, December 6-8, 2024, in Rajasthan, Magnetic Fields returns for its tenth year with its distinctive blend of electronic music and art. Nestled in the desert town of Alsisar, this festival unfolds within a palace and around the desert’s unique locales, promising an enigmatic experience. With performances from globally acclaimed artists like Nicola Cruz and DJ Midland, Magnetic Fields is not just about discovering new music but delving into an immersive celebration of sounds and art.
Bandlands, scheduled for November 23-24 in Bengaluru, caters specifically to rock and metal enthusiasts, promising an electrifying atmosphere with performances from Avenged Sevenfold and Extreme. Owen Roncon describes Bandlands as a festival that thrives on its curated content, crafting an environment where the love for music fosters connections among attendees.
Finally, as winter coats Meghalaya in pink, tourists and music enthusiasts gather on November 15-16 for the Cherry Blossom festival in Shillong. Celebrating the blooming cherry blossoms, this festival, organized in collaboration with the Tourism Department of Meghalaya, marries nature’s splendor with musical grandeur. This year’s ‘Year of Legends’ theme features legendary acts like Akon and Boney M, promising a remarkable cultural fusion. Creating a unique cultural experience, the festival introduces a Japanese village exhibit, offering culinary delights, artistic experiences, and interactive activities emblematic of Japanese culture.
So, if you’re gearing up for a sonic adventure or seeking to bask in the vibrant festival atmosphere, now you know exactly where to head. Good luck with your ticket quest and may these festivals gift you with memories and music to cherish.
