Music Festivals in the Northeast You Need to Attend in 2024

From the world’s biggest names to indie retreats in the woods, there are some incredible music festivals in the Northeast. 

Many Northeast music festivals are held in picturesque small towns among bucolic scenery, making them perfect for a camping getaway. However, even several urban hubs offer overnight RV accommodations and amenities, so don’t discount the opportunity to camp in the city. 

Much more than just music, many festivals also have on-site marketplaces, delicious food options, and activities galore. 

Here’s a look at seven of the most captivating Northeast music festivals worth attending in 2024.

Some Kind of Jam

Kempton, PA

Dates to be announced.

Held just west of Allentown, the family-friendly Some Kind of Jam festival hosts a range of activities, including yoga, art workshops, fire performances, spontaneous jam sessions, and more. 

The lineup features a range of genres, including funk, jazz, bluegrass, folk, and reggae, with over 20 acts performed on three stages. This long-running festival is entirely independent, with no corporate sponsors, lending a truly unique experience (and affordable tickets, previously just $150 for the entire weekend!). 

Camping is a cornerstone of the experience, and there’s always plenty of space for RVs at one of the most easygoing musical festivals in the Northeast.

Governor’s Ball

Queens, NY

June 7-9, 2024

“New York’s Biggest Party” delivers big acts with over 60 performers across 3 different stages.

Celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, Governor’s Ball does an excellent job of blending both alternative and mainstream. Festival goers will have classics to sing along to, plus new acts to discover. 

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is beloved for having plenty of shade and space, plus the iconic Unisphere. Festival ticket prices have yet to be announced, but in previous years have ranged from $139 for a single-day pass to $319 for a General Admission weekend pass.

While camping isn’t allowed, there are some incredible RV sites at the Skyline Drive-in Movie Theater, which is 20 minutes away.

Northlands Musics & Arts Festival

Swanzey, NH

June 14-15, 2024

Of all the music festivals in the Northeast, Northlands has one of the best camping setups, with options for tents, vehicles, families, and RVs.  

Organized in a small New Hampshire town, Northlands transforms wooded greenery and sleepy farmland into a weekend packed with fun. 

The lineup is all about jam bands, with Goose serving as this year’s headliner. In addition to immersive tunes, the festival features food trucks, quirky merchandise, and numerous vendors. 

General Admission starts at $169, and there are a variety of camping add-ons.

Rochester Jazz Festival

Rochester, NY

June 21-29, 2024

One of the world’s largest jazz festivals features an astounding 200+ shows in downtown Rochester, New York. Expect world-famous musicians like Laufey and Samara Joy, as well as plenty of lesser-known gems. 

Most performances are held in Eastman Theatre, lending to a more tranquil environment than other music festivals in the Northeast. 

Some shows are free, while tickets for individual headliners start at around $30, and multi-day headliners can also be purchased. 

While the jazz fest doesn’t have a campground, there are plenty of state parks within easy driving distance. 

Bonus: Rochester is a great base for exploring Niagara Falls and other Ontario waterfalls!

Catbird Music Festival

Bethel, NY

Dates to be announced

Located on the historic grounds of the original Woodstock in Bethel, New York, the inaugural Catbird Music Festival promises a weekend of Americana fun. 

Previous years’ impressive lineups have included folk-rock and indie country crowd-pleasers like The Lumineers, Tyler Childers, and others. 

In an ode to its storied location, the atmosphere is breezy, inclusive, and family-friendly. Weekend pass prices have yet to be announced for 2024, but in the past have started at $199, with single-day passes priced at $140.

The camping area is well-designed, with car sites, RV hookups, and even glamping options.

FreshGrass Festival

North Adams, MA

September 20-22, 2024

Held in a converted 19th-century factory surrounded by rolling mountains, FreshGrass is one of the more unique music festivals in the Northeast. 

The northwest Massachusetts event is centered around roots music, which includes bluegrass, folk, and traditional country. The relaxed environment encourages patrons of all ages, and there’s a heavy music education component, with workshops and pop-up shows. 

There’s also a museum nearby, with several galleries to explore between sets. 

Onsite camping is available, as well as numerous backup options a short drive away. 3-day passes are just $149.

Cruise Into Festival Season

With many music festivals in the Northeast and throughout the country offering camping options, one of the best ways to enjoy the festival season is to pick up an RV rental from Cruise America. There are nearly 120 convenient pickup locations, including several throughout the Northeast. Just buy your tickets, choose an RV model, and hit the road!