Influential music festival Coachella is back for its 19th year and is just as popular as ever, with tickets selling out in just an hour! The flower crown wearers’ favourite festival is iconic for a good reason, but there are some North American alternatives to try instead before everyone catches on. You’ll be a trendsetter darling!
While Coachella may be the most famous festival, it is only just scratching the surface of what is out there. So get out there, explore and use your passport! It’s about time people start discovering more about the North American festival scene beyond Coachella. The scene is exploding with all types of music, people, and energy in the summer season!
Canadian Music Week 7th May – 13th May TORONTO
Canadian Music Week is fast becoming North America’s premier music festival that serves the diehard music fan and anyone hoping to break into the industry. It’s a combination of industry networking, intensive conferences, a cutting-edge trade exhibition, award shows, a film, comedy and new music festival. It’s truly making the Winter Music Conference work for its money with its expanding offering every year.
Boston Calling 25th May – 27th May BOSTON
This pretty unknown festival is in its fifth year and has some stonking headliners! Eminem is headlining many festivals this year, Coachella included. So grab a moment with Marshall Mathers in Boston. While other hard hitters: St Vincent, Paramore and Queens of the Stone Age will all be performing. Plus, the fest brings special programmes hosted by Natalie Portman and hilarious acts from comedians David Cross (Tobias in Arrested Development) and Bridget Everett (drunk PA interview in SATC film). It’s an all-rounder for a festival, one to definitely to add to your festival bucket list.
The Governors Ball 1st June– 3rd June NEW YORK
The Governors Ball brings the care-free festival vibe to New York’s ‘busy busy’ tribe. It’s on Randall’s Island which is a tiny isle next to Manhattan and Queen’s. This year’s headliners are Eminem (natch), the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s and new dad Travis Scott will be hitting the mic. Offering a variety of music and food tastes, whether you look to kick back and relax or surrender yourself to beats and riffs, Governors Ball has what you want.
Afro Punk 25th August – 26th August NEW YORK
This festival has been described as ‘the most multicultural festival in the US’ according to The New York Times. It was originally started to give black punks an opportunity to build a community within a predominately white punk culture. Today, it is seen as a festival that celebrates black culture and the arts. This year includes the sensual Miguel, superstar Janelle Monae and piano man Smino. It’s held in the trendy suburb in Brooklyn at Commodore Barry Park, during our bank holiday weekend! So definitely one to take advantage of the extra holiday!
We have joined forces with Nauris Bruvelis and Primera Air to get you the top tips on how to pack for an international festival.
#1 The trick to packing for an international festival is preparation, you’re going to be out in the elements and must be as prepared as possible. Flying light is the latest trend, hand luggage-only deals mean you can get on board and get off the plane quicker. Rucksacks are your best friend – but check they meet the dimensions and weight requirements of your airline for hand luggage!
#2 Some airlines such as Primera Air allow a small handbag in addition to your item of hand luggage weighing up to 10KG in the ‘light’ travel package. Make sure you do your research and check on your airline’s website for details so you can maximise your luggage allowance.
#3 The most efficient way to pack is to roll all your clothes. It gets the best use of space in your bag.
#4 Many beauty products can be bought over there and thrown when used. Items like bug spray, dry shampoo, shower gel all weigh you down but they don’t need to!
#5 Flip flops are light-weight, slim line and should be your go-to item when packing lightly.
#6 A poncho is an essential – it can be rolled up taking up little space but importantly keeping you dry during any showers!
#7 Layering is so important at a festival, you’re there all day and the weather will change throughout the day. Pack a jumper to throw on when the sun goes down. Smart wool socks are brilliant and a personal recommendation. They keep in the heat when needed and keep you cool too. Jeans are a great item to pack or wear onboard, they can be dressed up or down.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Primera Air has just launched new North America routes to Boston, New York, Toronto and Washington DC starting from £149 one way from London Stansted.
Primera Air’s mission is to make expensive long-haul travel history. There are five levels of travel package available to book – Light, Comfort, Flex, Premium and Premium Flex – which gives passengers the opportunity to tailor their onboard experienced to suit their budget and needs.
For more information and to book please visit www.primeraair.co.uk
