Music has a magic of bringing people together like nothing else can. There is something undeniably special about experiencing live music, especially at a festival. It is more than just listening to your favourite artists, it is a journey of discovery. Music festivals ignite the senses and create memories that last a lifetime.  

2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for music festivals. The live music scene is booming, with global ticket sales projected to reach a staggering US$ 36.71 billion in 2025, and that is just the beginning. The market is expected to continue its upward trend, with a projected annual growth rate of 5.62%, reaching a volume of US$ 45.69 billion by 2029. This means more and more people are embracing the magic of live music, with an estimated 466.9 million listeners expected worldwide by 2029.

With so many festivals happening across the globe, the choices can be overwhelming. Whether you are looking for events near you or planning a far-flung travel adventure, there are options galore. From Asia to Europe, the US, and beyond, 2025 is packed with opportunities to experience the thrill of live music. So, if you are itching to travel and dance, to lose yourself in the rhythm and connect with fellow music enthusiasts, now is the time to start planning.

The Sandy Times has done the hard work for you, curating a list of must-attend festivals in 2025, so all you have to do is pack your bags and get ready to dance.

Music lovers, listen up! If you are planning your 2025 festival trip, Coachella has to be on your radar.  Seriously, this music festival is practically a cultural phenomenon. Plan to visit the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, where energy pulses through the air, and incredible music echoes across the desert landscape — welcome to Coachella. For over two decades, it has been the place to be, attracting huge stars and even bigger crowds. You will find here a blend of genres including rock, hip-hop, electronic dance music and everything in between. 

Coachella is also known for being ahead of the curve, often introducing the next big thing in music. Anyone looking for the hottest artists and an extraordinary experience, start planning your trip now.  Keep an eye out for the 2025 lineup and dates, and get ready for an epic desert adventure. If you are the type who likes to search "events near me" or "festivals near me,"  make sure Coachella is on your list even if it means a bit of travel. It is worth it.

Party people, are you looking to combine your love of travel with an epic music festival experience? Sunburn in India is calling your name! This isn't just any EDM festival, it is Asia's biggest, a massive celebration of electronic dance music that draws crowds from all over the globe. Pune's vibrant energy sets the stage for an amazing night. Get ready to dance the night away to the sounds of the world's top DJs, spinning everything from trance and house to techno and drum and bass.  

Sunburn isn't just about the music, though. They go all out with mind-blowing stage productions, lighting, and visuals that will leave you speechless. The festival vibe spills into the city, too, with parties popping up everywhere. It is like a complete immersion into music, dance, and fun. To create unforgettable moments, plan your next big trip with Sunburn on your list.

Let's talk about Glastonbury. June 25–29 2025 is the confirmed date for Glastonbury. Practically, it is a pilgrimage for music lovers. Tickets? They vanish faster than you can say "Worthy Farm," and the lineup announcements cause national headlines. 

And get ready for some exciting news, Rod Stewart has been confirmed for the legendary Sunday slot, with Nile Rodgers And Chic taking the stage right after him. Even more exciting, Neil Young, after some initial confusion, is officially headlining the Pyramid Stage.

The rumour mill is churning with whispers of other potential acts, including a legendary female performer, Sam Fender, Olivia Rodrigo, Duran Duran, Chappell Roan, The 1975, and Shed Seven, so keep your ears open for more announcements. Glastonbury is more than just a music experience, it is a cultural phenomenon and a must-do for any serious festival-goer. But here is a heads-up: 2025 is your last chance to experience Glastonbury for a while, as they are taking a fallow year in 2026. 

Dreaming of a unique festival experience that blends ancient traditions with modern music? Look no further than the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira, Morocco. Held annually in the charming coastal town of Essaouira, this festival has been celebrating the mystical Gnaoua music since 1998. One can celebrate a vibrant mix of African, Berber, and Arab influences, all coming together in a whirlwind of music, dance, and tradition. Travel to witness something truly special, where ancient cultures meet the modern world.

Mark your calendars for June 26th-28th. Essaouira transforms into an international hub during the festival, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. The weather in June is perfect for exploring Morocco. The festival takes place in the heart of Essaouira's medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adding a magical touch to the whole experience. Grab the opportunity to wander through the historic streets, with music echoing from the various stages and performance spaces.

While the full lineup for 2025 is still under wraps, you can expect an incredible mix of traditional Gnaoua music, jazz, blues, and other world music genres. Previous years have featured a diverse range of performers, from Gnaoua masters to acclaimed international artists, so you know you are in for a treat. 

Wacken Open Air in Germany is the biggest heavy metal festival in the world, a massive gathering of headbangers from every corner of the globe. During the festival the village of Wacken, northwest of Hamburg is fully overtaken by metal, the air is thick with the sound of roaring guitars and the energy of thousands of fans. It is an experience unlike any other.

From its humble beginnings as a small local event, Wacken has changed into a global phenomenon. Almost every subgenre of hard rock and metal is represented, so whether you are into thrash, death, power, or black metal, you will find your tribe here. Assume it as a family reunion but with more leather, spikes, and epic guitar solos.

And the lineup? It is insane! We are talking about some incredible bands like Papa Roach, Gojira, Apocalyptica, Machine Head, August Burns Red, Within Temptation, Ministry, W.A.S.P., Dimmu Borgir, and Saxon — and that is just a taste of what's in store.

While the 2025 festival, happening from July 30th to August 2nd, is officially sold out, don't lose hope.  Sign up for the waiting list — you never know what might happen and you travel to grab the festival.