Festival season is here, and jam fans are ready to ride the wave. From deep improv sessions to unexpected collabs, the energy is building for a summer of live music, community, and freeform creativity.
Whether you’re chasing a three-night run or stumbling into magic on a side stage, these are the can’t-miss jam and indie-leaning festivals coming up next.
First, let’s take a look at what makes jam festivals so awesome.
What to Expect From Jam Band Festivals
Camping and Community
Campers from all walks of life gather in scenic outdoor spots, setting up tents or rolling in with decked-out RVs, creating a home away from home for the weekend. The campground takes on a life of its own, buzzing with late-night jams, shared meals, and the kind of energy that only exists when the music never really stops.
Vendors and Culture
Vendors abound, offering everything from veggie burritos and grilled cheese to unique merch for the fans. Jam band festivals typically offer “Shakedown Street,” inspired the The Grateful Dead lot scene, which was the catalyst to it all. Many of the festivals host interactive workshops, yoga, and mindfulness events throughout.
Amazing Artists and Collaborations
BottleRock, located in Napa Valley kicked off the festival season, offering food, wine, music, vibes, and culure. The jam and indie acts were featured on the final day of the festival, offering the sounds of Noah Kahan, Goose, Khurangbin, and Cage the Elephant.
Whether you are there for the camping, a specific performance, or for the people watching; jam band festivals offer an abundance of culture, food, and good times. Here are the top jam band festivals in June.
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The 2025 lineup is a who’s who in touring jam bands outside of Phish. Headlining acts include Goose, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, and The String Cheese Incident.
These bands are joined by returning fan-favorites from the original All Good era, such as The Disco Biscuits, moe., Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, and more.
The festival features contemporary talents like Lawrence, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, Dogs in a Pile, and Eggy, ensuring a diversity of jam band sounds from bluegrass and folk to indie and electronic, offering mind-bending jams, good food, and a relaxed summer scene.
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The 2025 Northlands Music and Arts Festival is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity and community, set against the scenic backdrop of Swanzey, New Hampshire. Headliners include Colorado jam titans The String Cheese Incident, alongside Corey Wong, Umphrey’s McGee, and moe.
“Northlands is a breath of fresh air in today’s musical landscape. Honestly, I didn’t think festivals like this existed anymore. Stellar lineup and a laid-back atmosphere. Independently run, with the best of intentions — creating an environment that’s truly welcoming of any and all. It’s a place that conjures intrinsic magic and pure passion from both sides of the microphone.”
— Garret K. Woodward, Rolling Stone -
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After a six-year hiatus, Mountain Jam is back, and it will run June 20-22 in Highmount, New York, at Belleayre Mountain.
With three full days of live music, headliners Khruangbin, Mt. Joy, and Goose will be joined by Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Trampled by Turtles, and festival favorite Michael Franti & Spearhead, moe., Dogs In A Pile, Karina Rykman, and more.
Khruangbin, recently nominated for best new artist, combines a psychedelic groove with soul, funk, and dub and is genuinely unique.
Mt. Joy is a rising indie rock favorite with anthems such as “Astrovan” and “Silver Lining” and is well known for their loyal fans and high-spirited vibes.
Goose, an “indie groove” powerhouse that is on an epic rise, is known for blending tight musicianship with fearless improvisation and an indie-rock edge, and of course, their loyal followers.
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Now in its second year, Capitol Groove Music Festival brings a fresh twist to the festival scene from the heart of Hartford, Connecticut. With a lineup that leans more indie groove than jam band traditional — including headliners Khruangbin, Thundercat, Bleachers, Cake, and Steel Pulse — Capitol Groove offers a different kind of weekend energy.
Unlike the usual campground setup, this fest embraces the hotel scene, with plenty of food options and local charm fueling the experience.
