Small alternative festivals in North America.

If you know of a great event anywhere in Canada, the US, Mexico or anywhere south of there, let us know!

     

Festivals in 2026



January

Rubber Tramp Rendezvous

07 January - 15 January
USA

The Rubber Tramp Rendezvous is an annual gathering hosted by the Homes on Wheels Alliance.
The event welcomes thousands of homes on wheels owners to a unique camp-out at the La Paz County Fairground in the Arizona desert. The gathering features a variety of seminars, small-group talks, talent shows

Ocaso Festival

23 January - 24 January
Costa Rica

Ocaso Festival is an underground music festival in the heart of Costa Rica.
Celebrate the best underground sounds, amazing views and good times at the country’s premier event. The festival organisers say: “Ocaso Festival is an underground electronic music festival in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. A des

BlessFest

26 January - 01 February
Hawaii

Practice yoga, invoke the power of Mother Nature, and learn how to love yourself while connecting to others at BlessFest.
Feel the universe’s blessings, then share, dance, connect, and learn with other attendees seeking love, life, and enlightenment. The festival organisers say: “BlessFest i

costa rica festival

Cantando la Vida

31 January - 02 February
Costa Rica

Cantando La Vida is an exploration of song culture and a nice excuse to visit Central America..
The festival organisers say: ‘Cantando la Vida ~ Singing Alive Costa Rica is a shared path of remembering and reweaving our living song culture. This practice is bringing together of the worlds thr

February

Love Burn

05 February - 08 February
Florida

An annual beachfront tribute to Burning Man, this gathering is a camping experience that encourages immersive dance and arts performances.
It’s a volunteer-run event with emphasis on psychedelic interaction and connection. Each year is a different theme. The gathering organisers say: “The Love B

Envision Festival

23 February - 02 March
Costa Rica

Envision is ‘the original jungle festival’.
The annual event welcomes local and international visitors into a week-long celebration of music, art, yoga, workshops and surfing in the Costa Rican jungle. The festival organisers say: “Envision is a community. We started as a dream, grew into a fe

Tribal Gathering

27 February - 16 March
Panama

Tribal Gathering is an epic 16-day experience of a lifetime on the breathtaking cost of Panama.
The festival features more than 300 international music acts, cabaret and circus shows, workshops and more. The festival organisers say: “16 days on the most beautiful Caribbean beach. Over 300 internat

Forest Dance TBC

28 February - 28 February
Costa Rica

Forest Dance is a 5-day healing and expressive arts retreat in Montes De Oro, Costa Rica.
Described as ‘a rite of passage’, the annual ceremonial gathering features a wide variety of activities and workshops from Shamanic Journeying to Conscious Connected Breathing, Flower Essence Creation and m

March

Awaken as Love in Tulum

01 March - 07 March
Mexico

Following the Tulum Tantra Festival is an opportunity to go deeper… The organisers say: ‘The Awaken as Love Initiation is a journey open to everyone – it begins with a choice to go on an adventure that will expand you beyond the boundaries of your current existence.
What will it bring

Mazunte Tantra Massage Retreat

02 March - 08 March
Mexico

‘Awaken the Art of Sacred Touch in Paradise!
Imagine 7 days in a vibrant seaside village — waking to the sound of waves, practicing yoga under the warm sun, and learning the complete Tantra massage sequence (including yoni and lingam massage) in a safe, respectful, fully guided space. This i

Medicine for the People

19 March - 22 March
US

Medicine for the People gathers free spirits and creative minds across a four-day event.
No fights, no wars waged, no negativity—only positive vibes, good feelings, and people gathered in communion with nature and one another. The festivals organisers say: “Join us in a living prayer called

Treefort Music Fest

25 March - 29 March
ID

Soak up the sunshine, play in the park, and connect with music lovers from around the world at the Treefort Music Fest.
With over 400 artists and bands, there’s never a moment without dance, song, and a chance to express yourself in an ecstatic movement of bodies and minds. The festival organisers

April

Burning Flipside

23 April - 27 April
USA

Burning Flipside is the official Burning Man inspired festival of Austin, Texas.
The annual event welcomes around 3000 people to a unique campout experience, showcasing the creative arts and self expression. The festival organisers say: “Burning Flipside is a Texas regional art and music festival

Building (Wo)Man TBC

30 April - 30 April
US

Building (Wo)Man is a celebration of femininity rooted in nature.
While all genders are welcome, the festival explores feminine energy through music, classes, performance arts, and dance. Move your body, free your mind, and feel the flow of the universe around you! Festival organisers say: “Bu

Cosmic Convergence Festival TBC

30 April - 30 April
Guatemala

Cosmic Convergence Festival is a four-day gathering in Guatemala, that celebrates Mayan culture and conscious living.
The event is designed to leave a positive, social and local impact on the community; supporting various artists, organisations, projects and more. The festival organisers say: “The

Tantra Festival Mexico TBC

30 April - 30 April
Mexico

Tantra Festival Mexico is the first tantra festival in Latin America.
The event celebrates love in a sacred land of ancient traditions with a variety of workshops, meditations, ceremonies, dance, concerts and more.  The festival organisers say:  “A 5 day transformational experience created to op

May

Joshua Tree Music Festival

14 May - 17 May
USA

Joshua Tree Music Festival is a biannual music festival that takes place in the Mojave desert in California.
The 4-day festival showcases continuous live music, as well as yoga, kids activities, art displays, food, workshops and much more. The festival organisers say: “Founded in 2003, the bi-annu

Lightning In A Bottle

20 May - 24 May
USA

Lightning In A Bottle is an annual camping festival centred around six guiding principles; celebrate life, create community, respect yourself and one another, actively participate, honour the land and be a citizen.
The festival features everything from music to workshops, cultural offerings, art, yo

California Roots Festival

22 May - 24 May
USA

California Roots Festival is an annual music and arts festival that takes place in Monterey, California over Memorial Day Weekend.
The event showcases everything from reggae to rock, folk, hip hop and more, along with a variety of activities and entertainment. The festival organisers say: “What st

Grateful Festival

22 May - 24 May
Arizona

Find peace, love, and tributes to the Grateful Dead at the Grateful Festival.
Featuring twelve bands across two stages, it’s a mash-up of Jerry Garcia classics, rainbow tie-dye, and hippie-living vendors galore. The festival organisers say: “Once again we will have two stages but with more break

Northwest Folklife

22 May - 25 May
USA

Northwest Folklife is an annual festival that takes place over Memorial Day Weekend.
The event celebrates arts, culture and diversity in the Northwest. The festival organisers say: “Northwest Folklife is an independent arts organization that celebrates the multigenerational arts, cultures, and tra

awaken as eros tantra training

Awaken as Eros Stage 0ne TBC

31 May - 31 May
Mexico

Awaken as Love trainings are now also in Mexico!
The organisers say: ‘There are so many erotic and sxxual spaces being offered in our communities, the challenge is many of them are not trauma informed. They use a sledgehammer to make a point, and often the facilitators are using the containers

Bhakti Fest TBC

31 May - 31 May
USA

Bhakti Fest is an annual 4-day music festival in California.
The event celebrates devotion through chanting, yoga, meditation and more. The festival organisers say: “Bhakti Fest celebrates the devotional paths of yoga, Kirtan (sacred music), and meditation. Our festival is a drug and alcohol free

Shakti Fest TBC

31 May - 31 May
USA

Shakti Fest is a 5-day conscious yoga and music retreat in Palm Springs, California.
The event combines everything you know and love about festivals into a unique and intimate retreat in the desert. The festival organisers say: “Shakti Immersion celebrates the devotional paths of yoga, Kirtan (sac

Spring Leaf Retreat

31 May - 31 May
US

Spring Leaf Retreat is comparable to adult summer camp, celebrating life and trailblazing futures.
Discover new music, good vibes, and make connections with like-minded creatives for a whole weekend of low-cost, high-impact fun and adventure. The festival organisers say: “LEAF is a WONDERFUL way t

June

FireDrums Flow Arts Festival

04 June - 07 June
USA

FireDrums is an annual event that brings together the fire and flow community.
The gathering features 4 days and 3 nights of world-class workshops, music, shows, performances and more. The festival organisers say: “Celebrate flow and fire arts, have fun and share knowledge to grow together Broade

Soulplay Festival

04 June - 07 June
US

Soulplay Festival celebrates the vibrance of vitality and energy.
Rejoice in being alive—this immersive festival features workshops, dance, music, and connection. The festival organisers say: “Whether this is your first time stepping into an experience like this or you’ve been walking the embo

Flatland Juggling Festival

05 June - 07 June
USA

The Flatland Juggling Festival is an annual weekend long juggling party.
The event features three days of juggling, hooping, spinning, yo-yos and more. The festival organisers say: “The Flatland Juggling Festival features a huge indoor space for playing, learning, and fun! We’ll have open gy

Hippie Fest

06 June - 07 June
MI

Peace and love are still alive and well at Hippie Fest—a traveling festival where lifelong connections and friendships are formed in a weekend.
Flower power and vendors galore, enjoy laughter, love, and nature with a touch of ‘60s bell-bottom nostalgia. The festival organisers say: “Hippie Fes

Bonnaroo

11 June - 14 June
USA

Bonnaroo is an annual music and arts festival that takes place in Manchester, Tennessee.
Dubbed ‘the most positive place on the planet’, the camping event welcomes thousands of local and international visitors each year and showcases more than 150 musical performances. The festival organisers sa

Playthink Festival

12 June - 21 June
KY

PlayThink is a family-friendly summer adventure in the Appalachian Foothills that will transform your heart.
The PlayThink Movement fosters an inclusive and participatory culture centered on vitality, joy, and well-being. It is built on the belief that each individual holds the power to transform th

Cascadia Festival

19 June - 21 June
USA

Cascadia is an annual independent music and arts festival.
Owned and operated by local music producer and artists, the three-day event showcases electronic music, interactive art, workshops, performances and more. The festival organisers say: “The lush, mossy forests and stunning landscape of Wash

Green River Festival

19 June - 21 June
MA

One of the most family-friendly fests ever, Green River Festival is as much about art and expression as it is about music and dance.
Transform recycled materials into masterpieces, listen to folk stories told by whimsical local historians, and watch performers bring back magic with old-school tricks

Romp Fest

24 June - 27 June
USA

Romp Fest is an annual, 4-day festival featuring live music, camping, arts and kids activities.
The event celebrates the roots and branches of Bluegrass. The festival organisers say: “A full line-up of artist-led instrument workshops takes place throughout the day, as ROMP artists interact with fa

Electric Forest

25 June - 28 June
USA

Electric Forest is an annual 4-day music festival that takes place in Sherwood Forest in Rothbury Michigan.
Selling out each year, the festival is one of the most popular electronic music events in the country. The festival organisers say: “Electric Forest is known for bringing together a passiona

Telluride Yoga Festival

25 June - 28 June
USA

The Telluride Yoga Festival is an annual event featuring yoga, meditation, music, hiking and more.
The event welcomes world-renowned teachers and unique, intimate workshops across the 4-day event. The festival organisers say: “The Telluride Yoga Festival is a unique and special gathering unlike an

Big Ponderoo Festival

26 June - 27 June
OR

Big Ponderoo celebrates the thriving music and arts community of Sisters, Oregon.
The 2-day festival brings nationally touring Americana, bluegrass and alt-country acts to an outdoor venue. The festival organisers say: “Remember the good ‘ol days when you could go to a music festival without

Flowjam Festival TBC

30 June - 30 June
VA

A 4 day experience fusing healing vibes, music, dance, and stimulating arts on a 55 acre property with a view of the blue ridge mountains.
  The festival organisers say: “Get ready for soul-shaking music, transformative workshops, awe-inspiring art, and a curated selection of vendors you

Laketown Shakedown TBC

30 June - 30 June
Canada

Laketown Shakedown is an annual music festival that takes place across the Canada Day Long Weekend.
The three-day, multi-genre event features a wide variety of musical talent and offers a unique camping experience. The festival organisers say: “Gather up the festival crew and join us for a celebra

Lucidity Festival TBC

30 June - 30 June
USA

Lucidity Festival is an annual transformational music and arts festival in Santa Barbara, California.
The event is based around a number of core values; such as participation and immersion in the artistic process, personal growth and global healing, family fun and creative play and more. The festiva

Peace Village Festival TBC

30 June - 30 June
Oregon

Take a relaxing weekend for the tranquility and serenity of the Peace Village Festival, a heart-expansive experience that resonates with music, nature, and arts lovers.
Rejuvenate, refresh, and relax at this family-friendly event! The festival organisers say: “The music and magic of Peace Village

Sonic Bloom Festival TBC

30 June - 30 June
USA

Sonic Bloom is an annual 4-day camping festival at Hummingbird Ranch, Colorado.
The festival features electronic music, art, dance, human performances and more for an interactive weekend for all. The festival organisers say: “Together, we create a resonant field that unifies all forms of human cre

Stilldream Festival TBC

30 June - 30 June
US

Stilldream Festival is a small gathering for believers of magic, mystery, and the power of nature in all its beauty and glory.
Unleash your spirit and let the flowing freedom of dance move through you. The festival organisers say: “The lineup for Stilldream remains a mystery until showtime. Fo

July

Desert Hearts Festival

02 July - 06 July
USA

Desert Hearts Festival is an annual boutique gathering focused on art, music and community.
The event is rooted in house and techno music and celebrates the underground movement in a unique and intimate way. The festival organisers say: “Over the past 8 years, the Desert Hearts Family has found it

High Sierra Music

02 July - 05 July
US

High Sierra Music combines live music and festival fun for all ages.
Dance, sing, make friends, and learn how to live, play, and love again. Festival organisers say: “If you cherish High Sierra as it stands today, we urge you to join us with friends and family for this year’s festivities

High Sierra Music Festival

02 July - 05 July
CA

Situated in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, High Sierra Music Festival boasts a family friendly atmosphere packed with artists traversing all musical genres.
The eclectic lineup at the festival is backed by a picturesque venue surrounded by a mountainous landscape and national forests. Mo

Firefly Gathering

07 July - 12 July
US

Firefly Gathering is a chance to disconnect from the chaos and stress of everyday life; to commune with nature, free your soul, and learn new skills through art, music, and conversation.
Festival organisers say: “Each summer hundreds of people come together in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain

Bass Coast Festival

10 July - 13 July
Canada

Bass Coast Festival is an annual electronic music and arts festival in British Columbia.
The event has been crowned the Best Boutique Festival in North America and prides itself in being a unique and inclusive gathering. The festival organisers say: “Bass Coast Festival is a thoughtfully curated b

Oregon Country Fair

10 July - 12 July
USA

The Oregon Country Fair is an experience unlike any other.
The annual event creates a unique experience that nourishes the spirit and allows you to explore art and culture in a magical way. The festival organisers say: “The Oregon Country Fair is an annual three-day festival offering the finest in

Rock Fest

16 July - 18 July
United States

Rock Fest is the ultimate rock experience you can’t miss.
The annual all-ages event welcomes the best active and classic rock names and has grown to become one of the biggest rock festivals in the country. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9dkhxWTYJ8 The festival organisers say: “Rock Fest is the

Northern Nights Music Festival

17 July - 19 July
USA

Northern Nights Music Festival is an annual celebration of music and arts in the Mendocino/Humboldt County in California.
The three-day event features a collection of local and global arts and crafts, regional craft brews and wines, yoga, meditation and more. The festival organisers say: “Northern

Big Dub Festival

21 July - 26 July
USA

Big Dub Festival is an annual music and arts festival at Four Quarters Farm in Pennsylvania.
The four-day camping event features multiple stages of music, as well as daily activities, yoga, meditation, late night parties and more. The festival organisers say: “Big Dub is an annual art & music

Newport Folk Festival

24 July - 26 July
Rhode Island

Leap back in time to a pivotal moment when indie rock evolved into blues, country, and modern rock-and-roll.
Kindness is required to attend, and there’s a strict no-discrimination policy on festival grounds. Sing, dance, connect, and exist without worry for a weekend! The festival organisers say:

Shambhala

24 July - 27 July
Canada

Shambhala is Canada’s premier electronic music festival.
The annual event celebrates music, art and life in one of the most beautiful festival destinations in the world. The festival organisers say: “Shambhala is an annual event not to be missed, boasting six uniquely themed stages, each managed

International Juggler’s Association Festival

27 July - 02 August
USA

The International Juggler’s Association Festival (IJA Festival) is an annual event that features a week of juggling workshops, shows, competitions and more.
After more than half a century of events, the IJA Festival continues to unite and inspire the juggling world. The festival organisers say: â€

Pickathon

30 July - 02 August
Oregon

A music festival that transcends typical music festivals, Pickathon features some of the best indie rock musicians in the country.
Committed to zero waste and a focus on mind, body, and soul, the festival is a blend of musical talents, nature, and family-friendly fun, like comedy shows, art exhibits

Autonomous Mutant Festival TBC

31 July - 31 July
USA

The Autonomous Mutant Festival is an anarchic self-organised rave gathering without any central organisation and the location is only announced once it’s up and running….
The festival says: “An annual FREE gathering for art, culture, DIY technologies and a harmonious relationship with

Fairy & Human Relations Congress TBC

31 July - 31 July
USA

The Fairy & Human Relations Congress is an annual event dedicated to promoting communication and co-creation with nature spirits, devas and the faery realms.
The event welcomes around 300 visitors each year and features Celtic faery teachers, animal and plant communicators, Native American story

Osheaga

31 July - 02 August
Canada

Osheaga is an annual music and arts festival in Montreal, Canada.
The three-day event showcases a wide variety of local and international musical talent and features art installations and a large selection of food and drink vendors. The festival organisers say: “A huge celebration dedicated to mus

Peace, Love, and Hippies Summer Fest TBC

31 July - 31 July
US

Don your rainbow tie-dye, break out your flower headdress, and dance to the groovy tunes that made the 60s great.
The Peace, Love, and Hippies Summer Fest is a traveling one-day, family-friendly event of live music, vendors, entertainment, and food trucks. The festival organisers say: “At each of

PortalBurn TBC

31 July - 31 July
NY

Give, receive, gift, love, and connect at PortalBurn, a New York tribute to Burning Man.
No vendors—only friends and like-minded folks, gathering to dance, live, explore, and celebrate. Music, artistic performances, and nature await! The festival organisers say: “POrtalBurn is a sanctioned r

August

Elements Festival

07 August - 09 August
US

Elements Festival is a psychedelic ode to nature and the elements: earth, air, fire, and water.
Flow, sparkle, breathe, and glimmer as you dance, commune, and free your spirit to live music and performance art. The festival organisers say: “Fire is the home of thrill-seekers who thrive on spon

Outside Lands

07 August - 09 August
USA

Outside Lands is an annual music and arts festival that takes place in San Francisco, California.
The three-day event features a wide variety of artists and attractions, and has grown to become one of the ultimate summer destinations for live music as well as food and wine. The festival organisers s

Camp Redwood Music Campout

21 August - 23 August
CA

Camp Redwoods is an end of summer musical campout for individuals and families alike.
This annual festival is an intimate event with limited capacity and celebrates the redwoods, summer, and music. Enjoy nature, community, activities, music and relaxing. The festival organisers say: “We have c

The Mountain Music Festival TBC

21 August - 23 August
TN

Missing 80s rock-and-roll?
Experience a blast from the past at The Mountain Music Festival, where time stops for three nights of leg warmers, big hair, and classic rock that rules. The festival organisers say:   “HARD ROCK IS BACK! Join your fellow music enthusiasts at The Gatlinburg Conventi

Burning Man

30 August - 07 September
USA

Burning Man is an annual event that takes place in Black Rock City each year.
The nine-day event creates a temporary self-sustaining and self-reliant city in the Black Rock Desert. Thousands of visitors come together to create the ultimate experience, centred around the 10 principles of burning man

Descend On Bend TBC

31 August - 31 August
USA

Descend On Bend is an annual van-life gathering that takes place in Bend, Oregon.
The event takes place over Labor Day weekend each year and welcomes hundreds of visitors to a unique weekend of outdoor activities, workshops, communal meals and more. The festival organisers say: “Descend was born o

ForestDance Gathering TBC

31 August - 31 August
US

ForestDance Gathrings are  arts and healing festivals held in Massachusetts in summer and Costa Rica in winter.
Expect lots of essential oils and shamanism… The festival organisers say: “Forestdance is a profound ceremonial gathering where we dance and experiment with creativity in service,

Shangri-la Festival TBC

31 August - 31 August
MN

Shangri-la Festival is a haven of calm in the midst of the chaos, a place to unwind, relax,regenerate and connect with yourself and your Festie Family.
Come take a break from dancing and stretch yourself in a Yoga class, drop in deep with a Sound Meditation, or receive a healing session under the em

September

Dancefestopia

07 September - 13 September
USA

Dancefestopia is an electronic music festival in the heart of Kansas City.
Surrounded by rolling hills and magical forests, the four-day event features more than 200 local and international artists, activities, attractions and more The festival organisers say: “Dancefestopia is a home of happiness

Harvest Festival

11 September - 14 September
Canada

Harvest Festival celebrates the onset of autumn with cool vibes, cooler music, and the best circus and performance arts anywhere.
Dance the night away, commune with nature, eat, drink, and be merry with those around you. Festival organisers say: “Harvest festival is an annual four-day event se

Yin On Fire

17 September - 20 September
UT

Celebrate positivity and humanity with four days and three nights of ecstatic dance, live music, and spark talks to motivate and inspire.
Includes a beautiful lake with a 200-foot water slide! Please note that this event is for 18+ only. The festival organisers say: “Bound by our shared enthus

Cascade Equinox Festival

18 September - 20 September
US

Cascade Equinox Festival is an immersive, family-friendly festival over a weekend in Redmond, Oregon.
It celebrates peace, love, and humanity while paying tribute to artists, creators, and performers. The festival organisers say: “Gem & Jam and 4 Peaks Presents have teamed up to bring you

Shaky Knees Music Festival

18 September - 20 September
Georgia

Feel the bump of the bass from your classic and new favorite bands at the Shaky Knees Music Festival, a tribute to rock-and-roll through the ages.
Old-school and new-school collide in a sweat-slicked, hands-in-the-air audience that rocks well into the wee hours. The festival organisers say: “With

Mothman Festival TBC

19 September - 20 September
USA

Mothman Festival is a unique, annual gathering that commemorates the visit of ‘The Mothman’, a mysterious entity.
The event features a variety of activities including cosplay, guest speakers, live music and entertainment and more. The festival organisers say: “Mothman Festival is an annual eve

Same Same But Different

25 September - 27 September
US

Same Same But Different is a music, wellness, and arts festival where mind and body connect in creativity, imagination, and well-being.
It’s a break from the monotony of everyday life to commune with nature, art, and other creative minds. The festival organisers say: “Same Same But Diffe

Tall Trees Music Festival TBC

30 September - 30 September
Pennsylvania

Feel the vibe of one-day nonstop rock-and-roll, bluegrass, and country music with over ten bands on two stages.
Free admission, but donations go toward The Mitzvah Circle Foundation, a charity providing basic needs for families facing poverty. The festival organisers say: “Tall Trees Uses Music To

Wasteland Weekend

30 September - 04 October
USA

Wasteland Weekend is the world’s largest post-apocalyptic festival.
The annual 5-day, Mad Max style event features a week of live bands, combat performers, fire dancers, themed games, merchants and more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WHkhXRtDpc The festival organisers say: “Join thousands of

October

Leaf Global Arts Festival TBC

16 October - 18 October
USA

Leaf Festival is an annual gathering celebrating music, art, creativity and culture.
The family-friendly event welcomes more than 100 vendors, over 400 performing artists and dozens of interactive activity centres for more than 12,000 visitors each year. The festival organisers say: “For 24 years

Desert Daze TBC

31 October - 31 October
California

An eco-friendly festival of dance, one love, and celebration of life, Desert Daze is a collision of cutting-edge music, immersive art installations, and the beauty of nature.
The nights are alive with music and art! The festival organisers say: “In addition to music, Desert Daze emphasizes visual

November

Zen Awakening Festival

12 November - 15 November
USA

Zen Awakening Festival is a life changing transformational, music and arts festival.
The annual event features a range of celebrity DJs, jam bands, yoga, meditation, spiritual teachers, cirque performers and much more. The festival organisers say: “Zen Awakening Festival community is open to all s