Started back in 1991, the High Sierra Music Festival, which takes place over four days in Quincy, California, boasts a varied lineup of over 50 bands each year. Past musical acts have included Widespread Panic, Black Crowes, Bela Fleck, Ani DiFranco and Leftover Salmon. The festival draws about 10,000 people a year, and tickets are priced at about $200 for the entire four days. Festival-goers are treated to more than 12 hours of live music a day, with several bands playing at the same time on separate stages. In addition to the music, the festival offers daycare and other activities for children, outdoor play shops, parades, music business workshops and more. To make festival-goers comfortable during their four-day music experience, the festival has free parking, many camping options, as well as other lodging choices.
Located in Hunter, New York, the Mountain Jam festival has been an annual festival since 2005 that showcases more than 30 bands each year. This three-day festival takes place the first weekend after Memorial Day (with camping and lodging options available), and ticket prices routinely fall around $150 for the entire festival, with single-day passes available as well. The festival draws over 10,000 fans of all ages every year. Past musical acts have included Alison Krauss, Levon Helm, Rose Hill Drive and Robert Randolph. Festival-goers can also partake in the arts and crafts village (venders selling paintings, clothing, ceramics and more), the awareness village (mind, body, environmental and spiritual education), a children's area and more. Children under 10 who are accompanied by a paying adult can get into the festival for free.
This annual festival takes place over three days in Chillicothe, Illinois, with more than 40 bands and 10,000 people in attendance each year. Bands that have participated in the Summer Camp Music Festival include George Clinton, Les Claypool, Keller Williams, The Wailers and O.A.R. The festival also has many late night events, such as shows, a vibe tent and campfire jams. Consider volunteering your time to enjoy free admission to the festival. Festival-goers can also participate in kids camp, music workshops, as well as other activities sponsored by various activism/non-profit groups. Ticket prices typically fall around $170 for a three-day pass.